Concerts Tampa

Hey everyone!  Travis here with some Tampa Bay area events, hosted by the Florida Orchestra, during December.  So strap your sleigh bells on because here we go!

Dec. 2: An Intimate Collaboration, The Austrian Way Highlighting Music by Beethoven & Bruckner. 

As a multi-cultural prelude to The Florida Orchestra’s next Masterworks concert, The Studio@620 and The Florida Orchestra present An Intimate Collaboration: The Austrian Way, with discussion, music, and other art forms related to Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto and Bruckner’s Symphony No. 6 featured on the Masterworks series on December 4 and 6.

An Intimate Collaboration: The Austrian Way takes place Wednesday, December 2, at 7:30 pm at The Studio@620 located at 620 First Avenue South in downtown St. Petersburg. Seating is limited and reservations are required.  Suggested donation $10. To place a reservation, call 727.895.6620 or visit www.studio620.org.

Dec. 4 & 6: Masterworks: Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto.  The youngest winner ever of the International Beethoven Competition in Vienna, Stefan Vladar performs Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 with its flowing, gliding and sparkling melodic gifts on a program with Bruckner’s majestic and soaring Symphony No. 6.

It's Fri, Dec 4, 8 pm at Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center - Carol Morsani Hall, and on Sun, Dec 6, 7:30 pm at Ruth Eckerd Hall.  Tickets are: $20, $30, $43, $53, $67. 

Pre-Concert Conversation: All Masterworks programs offer a pre-concert talk about the music and the composers in the concert hall beginning one hour prior to curtain.

Dec. 10: Coffee Concerts: Opera’s Greatest Hits - Alastair Willis conducts this morning Coffee Concert that features Verdi’s Traviata, Prelude to Act III, Puccini’s La Boheme, and Rossini’s Overture: Italian Girl in Algiers.

Don’t miss the pre-concert conversation and complimentary coffee and donuts one hour before the concert. It's Thurs, Dec 10, 11 am at Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater. 

Pre-Concert Conversation: All Coffee Concert programs offer a pre-concert talk about the music and the composers in the concert hall beginning one hour prior to curtain.  tickets are: $24, $29, $34, $42

Dec. 11-13: A Holiday Pops - Sure to put a smile on your face and good cheer in your heart, treat yourself and your family to a sleigh load of musical chestnuts, favorite yuletide tunes and Christmas carols with your orchestra and the soaring voices of The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay.

It's Fri, Dec 11, 8 pm at Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center - Carol Morsani Hall; Sat, Dec 12, 8 pm at Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater; and Sun, Dec 13, 7:30 pm at Ruth Eckerd Hall.  Tickets are: $20, $30, $43, $53, $67

Dec. 16: Special Concert - Cherish the Ladies: A Celtic Christmas: 

Hailed by The New York Times as “passionate, tender and rambunctious” and singled out by The Washington Post as “an astonishing array of virtuosity,” the Irish traditional music and dance group, Cherish the Ladies, will toast the holiday season with their wondrous weaving of Irish vocals, old-world airs and tug-on-your-heartstrings yuletide tunes with fiddles, flutes, penny whistles, guitar, banjo, accordion, mandolin and even some step dancing.

It takes place on Wed, Dec 16, 8 pm at Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater, and tickets are: $25, $40, $55, $70

So, make sure you get out and enjoy one of the many events that the Florida Orchestra has in December. 

And keep checking back here for info about other Tampa Bay area events and great things to do in Tampa Bay. 
 

Hi All...Travis here with some great Tampa Bay entertainment options for the holidays.  We are heading out to Bok Tower Gardens this time. 

The holidays at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales will be especially joyful with “Joy to the World” as the theme for the 15th annual Christmas at Pinewood holiday home tour November 27 through January 3.

One of Central Florida’s favorite holiday events, designers will deck the halls of the 20-room, 1930s Pinewood Estate with elegant and elaborate decorations based on verses of the popular Christmas carol, holiday traditions around the world and the joy of the season.

The Wild Hare in Winter Haven has started a new tradition this year by sponsoring The Pantry on behalf of another non-profit organization, the Lake Wales Arts Center. Designers Patti Bostick and Heather Coscia have created a whimsical Candyland filled with “Visions of Sugarplums.”

Another new decorating idea by Citizens Bank & Trust involves community-wide support from its staff and customers who have filled The Loggia with angels, birds and natural wonders to illustrate the theme song’s refrain, “And Heaven and Nature Sing.”

More than 10,000 visitors who are expected to attend the holiday home tour will be invited to vote on their favorite room designs. The top prize in the “People’s Choice” awards is the opportunity to host a private event for 25 at Pinewood Estate.

Also, visitors may purchase tickets for a drawing to win prizes that include a private dinner for eight at Pinewood Estate.

Plus, on November 28 through January 1, enjoy seasonal music during carillon concerts at 1 and 3 p.m. from the Singing Tower. On December 11 and 13, evening holiday home tours at 7 p.m. will be included with Christmas concerts featuring soprano Alana Trimmier at 7:30 p.m.
The concerts include a champagne reception. Space is limited and the cost is $38 or members $29. If you want tickets, then email phrestina@boktower.org or call 863-676-1408 for reservations.

If that wasn't enough, listen to this.  Bok Tower Gardens, open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., will feature 14 unique varieties of poinsettias on display at the Visitor Center and more than 200 red and white poinsettias at Pinewood Estate.

Holiday home tour hours are Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; Christmas Eve 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Christmas Day 1 to 5 p.m. There is an additional fee for tickets that can be purchased at the entrance gate, Visitor Center and Pinewood Estate.

just Visit www.boktowergardens.org or call 863-676-1408 for more information.  And as always, keep checking back here for other great things to do in Tampa Bay and other Tampa Bay area events!

Hey everyone!  Travis here with some amazing Tampa Bay entertainment options for you!  We just got this info in from our friends at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, so here it is:

Join Charlie Daniels, The Marshall Tucker Band, and other great country and rock acts on Dec. 5 from noon until 6p.m. for a free concert in the back lot of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

But wait, there’s more! This amazing free concert is actually the culmination of a full weekend of fun that starts on Thurs. Dec. 3 with The Charlie Daniels Charity Blackjack Tournament in the casino at 9 p.m.

Blackjack entry fee is $250 per player. The total guaranteed prize pool for players is $22,750; first place will pay $10,000. Tickets are available at the Hard Rock Retail Store or by phone: 813-627-7740. Space is limited with only 144 seats. 

Tournament registration is from 5 - 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 3 outside the Poker Room at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa. Tournament play begins at 9 p.m.

On Friday, Dec. 4 The Charlie Daniels Celebrity Golf Tournament will be held at Buckhorn Springs Golf & Country Club, in Valrico. Entry is $500 including golf, two tickets to a pairing party and an awards dinner – both at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, a deluxe goodie bag, and two VIP passes for food and beverage at the Saturday concert. To participate, contact Tammy at (727) 243-8293.

Scheduled to appear on the Dallas Bull/Budweiser stage in the back lot of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino along with The Charlie Daniels Band will be: The Marshall Tucker Band, Confederate Railroad, Lee Brice, Wiley Fox, Jason Young, N-Kahootz, and Suite Caroline. 

Though the concert is free to the public, there are a limited number of VIP passes available for $50 that include a free meet and greet with Charlie Daniels and free food and beverages in the VIP tent. To purchase a VIP pass call Tammy at (727) 243-8293.

Also, from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m., fishing captains Keith & Monte from the vessel Wizard, as seen on the Discovery Channel’s show Deadliest Catch, will be on hand to sign autographs.

Following the concert, a Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW) tournament will be held in the Seminole Hard Rock back lot. FCW is the training facility for the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment). WWE wrestlers will sign free autographs. Admission is $10 at the door.

Wow, I'm running out of space to talk about everything that's happening at one of the best Tampa Bay hotels there is.  So, just head over to www.seminolehardrock.com to get more details...if you need them.

And keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay!
 

Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, insect repellent and flashlights. Handicapped parking and shuttle service will be available.

Holy cow, that's a lot to take in, but its well worth it as this is going to be an amazing show! There is still time to purchase tickets so hop to it!

Until the next time, stay tuned in for more Tampa Bay area events and fun things to do in Tampa Bay!
 

Hey everyone!  Travis here with some AWESOME Tampa Bay entertainment that everyone need to be at!  Here's the info just in from the Seminole Hard Rock (one of the best Tampa Bay hotels out there)! 

Musician, singer, songwriter and actor Rick Springfield and his band will perform on Dec. 30 in a state-of-the-art event tent erected just for this concert at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

Best known for his 1981 Grammy award-winning single, “Jessie’s Girl” on the classic album, Working Class Dog, and his role as Dr. Noah Drake on the daytime drama General Hospital, Springfield has amassed an impressive music collection of almost 20 albums over the years.

The still-handsome Australian-born rocker’s newest CD is a departure for him. Entitled My Precious Little One: Lullabies For A New Generation, it’s a collection of mellow songs he wrote in the 1980s for his boys, now 20 and 21.

His current band includes longtime bass player and collaborator on Venus In Overdrive, Matt Bissonette, keyboard player, Derek Hilland, guitarist George Bernhardt, and drummer Rodger Carter.

Tickets are $55 for reserved seating; $40 general admission, available at the Hard Rock Store and all Ticketmaster outlets starting Nov. 13 at 10 a.m. (you must be 18 years and older.) Doors open at 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m. Parking, as always, is FREE.

So, I hope to see you all out there!  Until then, keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay!
 

1. The 205 foot neo-Gothic and art deco Singing Tower carillon is an experience like no other. Name the famed architect who designed it.
2. Name the Music Director for the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and what year of his tenure is he entering into?

Hey everyone!  Travis back with some additional Tampa Bay entertainment news!  Bok Tower Gardens has added a new preshow for the 8th annual Sunset & Symphony Fall Concert on November 7.

Area musicians Clint Dockery and James Hudson, an acoustical duo on mandolin and guitar, will perform from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. before the concert begins at 6 p.m.

Event gates open at 3:30 p.m. and tickets are $12 for members and $15 for the general public. The day of concert tickets are $20 and children under 5 are free.

If you're looking for tickets, they can be purchased online at www.boktowergardens.org.

Here are some quick tidbits about the show:

Popular operas, Broadway hits and patriotic favorites will be featured by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of guest conductor Joseph Mechavich with soprano Janette Zilioli.

With this year’s theme, “Fanfare for Opera,” William De Turk, Singing Tower carillonneur, will perform “Round O” from “The Moor’s Revenge” by Henry Purcell, “Gavotte” from “Iphigenie in Aulis” by Christoph W. von Gluck and a selection from “The Magic Flute” by W. A. Mozart.

Visitors are encouraged to bring picnics, lawn chairs or blankets, insect repellent and flashlights. Handicapped parking and shuttle service will be available. The Instrument Petting Zoo will begin at 4:30 p.m. Located on the Garden Activities Center lawn, families can try their hands at a variety of instruments with the help of Orlando Philharmonic musicians.

But, there's plenty more info, so log on to www.boktowergardens.org.

And keep checking back here for more great things to do in Tampa Bay! 

 

Hey gang...Travis back with some cool Tampa Bay entertainment news!  You can join Tops In Blue as they present “To Dream,” an action-packed adventure of music and dance that invites audiences to follow their dreams, whatever they may be.

Tops In Blue, the premiere entertainment showcase of the  U. S. Air Force, will perform at the Ford Amphitheatre on November 2 at 7pm. The gates open at 6:30pm and both the show and parking are FREE – No tickets are needed.

This year, Tops In Blue continues its long-standing tradition of “family entertaining family” by showing us what has made Tops In Blue a “must-see” event every year for over half a century. 

You’ll hear hot Latin sounds, All-American country music, and hits from the top of the charts.  You’ll experience the great music from your favorite movies and Broadway shows.  Combine all that with the dazzling lights, costumes and precision choreography for which Tops In Blue is known worldwide, and you can look forward to a show that’s sure to please everyone.

Tops In Blue ‘09 keeps 56 years of touring tradition by visiting all bases throughout the United States and more than 25 foreign countries.  Their aggressive tour schedule spans more than 120 locations and also includes entertaining forward-deployed troops in various locations in Iraq, Qatar, Afghanistan and Kuwait.

The show is guaranteed to energize hearts and souls and remind each of us that we stand proudly for America, its people and its music. So, don't miss this powerful and unforgettable show.

if you need more details, just visit www.topsinblue.com.  And as always, keep checking back here for more great Tampa Bay area events and information about great things to do in Tampa Bay. 
 

Hey everyone!  Travis here with some great Tampa Bay area events for November.  We are talking about the Florida Orchestra today!  They have some wonderful events for everyone throughout November, so take a look. 

The Florida Orchestra (TFO) has three upcoming performances in November, each unique in its own way.

October 31 & November 1: The Tampa Bay Steel Orchestra
Principal Percussionist John Shaw returns with The Tampa Bay Steel Orchestra and Tampa Bay vocalist Fred Johnson to share the stage with TFO in a night of sizzling steel drum and Caribbean hits, including Yellow Bird, Marianne, Day-O, Jump In the Line, One Love and more.

The Tampa Bay Steel Orchestra's seven members are amongst the most accomplished steel pan players in the country. The group has appeared with TFO and been featured at First Night in St. Petersburg and the Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival.  In 2001, four members performed the national anthem for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, becoming the first steel drum band ever to do so for a Major League Baseball game.

Show times: Sat., Oct. 31 at 8 pm, Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater; and Sun., Nov. 1 at 7:30 pm, Ruth Eckerd Hall
Tickets: $20, $30, $43, $53, $67

November 6, 7 & 8: Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto
Scottish composer James MacMillan makes his conducting debut with The Florida Orchestra in a program featuring the US East Coast-premiere of his The Sacrifice: Three Interludes on a program with the TFO premiere of Vaughan Williams’ Symphony No. 4 and featuring the orchestra’s concertmaster Jeffrey Multer in Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto. 

Acclaimed as one of today’s greatest living composers, James MacMillan’s musical language is flooded with influences from his Scottish heritage, his Roman Catholic faith, social conscience and close connection with Celtic folk music, blended together with influences from Far Eastern, Scandinavian and Eastern European music.

Show times: Fri., Nov, 6 at 8 pm, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center - Carol Morsani Hall; Sat., Nov. 7 at 8 pm, Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater; and Sun., Nov. 8 at 7:30 pm, Ruth Eckerd Hall
Tickets: $20, $30, $43, $53, $67

November 27, 28 & 29: Classical Mystery Tour
With members of the acclaimed Broadway sensation Beatlemania, it's a night of Beatles hits…Penny Lane, Yesterday, Eleanor Rigby, Hey Jude, Strawberry Fields Forever, I Saw Her Standing There and more.  The Los Angeles Times singled out their concert for its “high goose-bump quotient,” adding “the crowd stood and bellowed for more.” 

Performing in concerts with orchestras around the world, the members of the band are all accomplished vocalists and include Jim Owen on rhythm guitar and piano, Tony Kishman on bass guitar and piano, Chris Camilleri on drums and Tom Teeley on lead guitar.

Show times: Fri., Nov. 27 at 8 pm, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center - Carol Morsani Hall; Sat., Nov. 28 at 8 pm, Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater; and Sun., Nov. 29 at 2pm, Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater
Tickets: $20, $30, $43, $53, $67

If you're looking for more information about these, just head over to www.floridaorchestra.org.

and of course, keep checking back for other great things to do in Tampa Bay!  Plus, we'll have more Tampa Bay area events for you shortly.
 

Hey everyone...Travis here with more, FREE, great things to do in Tampa Bay!  that's right, I said FREE! 

It starts with Pops in the Park! The Florida Orchestra will perform a free Pops in the Park Concert this Friday, October 16, at 7 p.m. at River Tower Park in the Sulphur Springs area of Tampa.

Attendees may bring their own picnic dinners to the concerts or purchase food from food vendors at the parks.  Attendees are invited to make canned food donations to Tampa Bay Harvest’s food bank services in the Tampa Bay Area.  For concert information, call 727.892.3337 or 1.800.662.7286, or visit www.floridaorchestra.org.

Next, there's a Fire Station Open House hosted by Tampa Fire Rescue and Neighborhood & Community Relations this Saturday, October 17 from 10 am to 1 pm at Station 10 in East Tampa. It's at 3108 North 34th Street. Lots of fun and great picture opportunity!  So, take the kids and get out there! 

We've saved one of the best for last (ok, they are all the best, but still).  this one's a little far off, but start planning now...Walk with the Mayor!  Mayor Pam Iorio invites you to participate for Walking with the Mayor - Keeping Tampa Fit on Saturday, November 7 at Rowlett Park (Shelter 218), located at 2501 River Hills Drive.

Mayor Iorio initiated Walking with the Mayor – Keeping Tampa Fit in 2005 and walks are held twice a year. The goal of the walks is to encourage citizens throughout Tampa to incorporate additional physical activity into their lifestyles for better health.

For more information, just contact the Tampa Parks and Recreation Department at (813) 274-8615. 

So, get out, have fun, and do it all for FREE!!!!!  See you back here soon for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, and other awesome Tampa Bay area events! 
 

Hey everyone!  Travis here with some great things to do in Tampa Bay.  Actually, we're talking about things to do in downtown Tampa over the next week...and believe me, there are a ton of great Tampa Bay area events! 

First, the Tampa Bay Lightning are back on the ice.  Here is their home schedule for the next weeks:

Thursday, October 22nd the Lightning take on San Jose Sharks.  Game starts at 7:30 p.m.  For tickets and more information about the Tampa Bay Lightning, visit their Web site at www.tampabaylightning.com.

Next, on Thursday, October 15th, the Tampa Bay History Center invites everyone to explore the exhibition called Florida Cattle Ranching: Five Centuries of Tradition.  This is a temporary exhibit that opened last month in the Tampa Bay History Center’s new third-floor, 2,000-square-foot gallery (it's running through December). Florida Cattle Ranching chronicles the history and culture of one of Florida’s oldest industries and features oral histories, Florida folk music, cowboy art and documentary footage.  Admission ranges from $7-$12. 

On Friday, October 16th, the Market days are hear again!  The Tampa Downtown Market kicks off its second season.  This year the Tampa Downtown Market will be bigger than before stretching up Franklin Street and going down Madison Street.  The Tampa Downtown Market opens at 10 a.m. and stays open until 2 p.m.  At the Market you will find fresh produce, unique hand made gifts and enjoy a great urban setting.

Then, on Saturday, October 17th, Runners take your mark…The Third Annual Spartan Challenge 5k starts at 8 a.m.  The Third Annual Spartan Challenge 5K will be held entirely on the University of Tampa campus.  The course will not be your typical 5K road race. It will include running through tires, jumping over hay bales (and maybe even a mud pit), as well as crawling under a cargo net.....all of this in and around UT's historic campus.  Sounds like a great deal of fun!

On Sunday, October 18th, relax and enjoy brunch by the water.  Café Dufrain, located at 707 Harbour Post Drive, is serving a delectable menu including mouth watering island inspired cuisine and tasty tropical beverages.  Music tops off the setting.  So, come as a couple or bring some friends to Cafe Dufrain and enjoy the urban setting.  
 
Next Monday, October 19th, The Kotler Art Gallery at the John F. Germany Public Library is presenting Coalition of Hispanic Artists - "Southern Exposure".  Coalition of Hispanic Artists (CHA) is a not for profit organization comprised of painters, sculptors, artisans, photographers, poets, and musicians, and was founded in April 2007 and incorporated in March 2008.  

On Wednesday, October 21st, The City of Tampa Mayor's Hispanic Heritage Committees' Annual Celebration is held at the Tampa Theatre starting at 11 a.m.  This event is in honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month. The event is intended to showcase the many Hispanic contributions in Tampa. The Committee focuses on recognizing, appreciating and honoring City of Tampa's Hispanic employees while educating other ethnic groups on the Hispanic culture through cultural entertainment, food and motivational speakers.

The free event, open to the public, welcomes over 500 Tampa's citizens each year. Tedd Webb, 970 WFLA Radio personality, will emcee this year's Celebration and Mayor Pam Iorio will officially proclaim the day "Hispanic Heritage Day" in Tampa. The keynote address will be given by Patsy Feliciano, Interim Director, Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity, University of South Florida. Featured entertainment includes the musical performances by Melanie Rose, a tribute to the late Maria Esther Carrillo, founder of TICH and dance performances. 

Also that day, help the Tampa Bay Dragon Boat Institute and the Downtown Tampa Attractions Association while enjoying a glass of wine.  From 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at TinaTapas, located at 615 Channelside Drive inside Channelside Bay Plaza, Barefoot Wines will be flowing all in the name of support.  Each glass helps raise funds for these two worthwhile organizations.

On Tuesday, October 22nd, The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts hails the spirit of Woodstock in its first ever concert series with 60's-style music and ambience in its Flashback @ FMoPA Concert Series. Get in the groove during the after-work hours of 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursdays, October 22, 29 and November 5, 2009.  Admission is free for museum members and $5 for non-members. Danny Thro will be staging psychedelic light shows all three evenings.  Music will be provided by Ronny Elliot (Oct. 22); Rebekah Pulley (Oct. 29) and Steve Grant (Nov. 5).  Wine from Barefoot Wine and Bubbly and brownies and brie from Whole Foods Market will be available. 

Drawings will be held for prizes from Sam Ash Music Stores at every concert.  Purifica: Water At Its Best and Creative Loafing are sponsors of the series with WMNF 88.5 fm Radio as media sponsor.  The concert series is being held in conjunction with the museum‘s exhibition saluting the 40th anniversary of Woodstock,  “Burk Uzzle’s Woodstock and other Americana.”  It is open through November 7.  For more details, click here.

And there you have it...some very cool Tampa Bay area events to experience.  So, get out there and have some fun! 

See you back here for more great things to do in Tampa Bay! 
 

Hey everyone!  Travis here with some great Tampa Bay area events taking place at the famed Florida State Fairgrounds throughout the rest of the month!  From cool concerts and equestrian shows to retail and deli expos...the Fairgrounds has it all. 

So, let's get to it shall we...take a look:

Oct. 16: Concert - Brad Paisley:  Brad Paisley will perform in concert with special guests Dierks Bentley and Jimmy Wayne at the Ford Amphitheatre at the Fairgrounds. Ticket prices are $57.75 and $47.75 for reserved seating, $29.75 for lawn area seating, and $99 for a 4-pack of lawn tickets. For the latest concert information and to get more details, visit www.livenation.com. 

Oct. 16-17: FWRHA Horse Show: The Florida Walking and Racking Horse Association (FWRHA) will host a two-day, two judge horse show for all levels of riders in the Charlie Lykes Arena. The show starts at 10 a.m. each day.  Entry fees vary based on the entry category. Admission and parking are FREE for spectators. if you need more details, just head over to www.fwrha.org. 

Oct. 16-18: Tampa Bay Boat Show: The St. Petersburg Times presents the boating event of the season featuring millions of dollars of inventory in new boats and watercraft on display in the Expo Hall. Visitors can shop for the boat of their dreams, check out special exhibits with the latest in supplies and accessories, or see one of a series of Florida fishing school seminars. The area's top fishing guides and local experts will provide great tips and secrets to learn how to catch the big one. Event hours are Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is FREE for all ages. Parking is $5 per car or $10 per RV or bus. For more details, visit www.tampabayboatshows.com. 

Oct. 17-18: Gun Show & Sale:  One of Florida's premier gun shows returns to the Charles M. Davis Special Events Center for two days. The Suncoast Gun Show and Sale features firearms-related accessories including gun parts, gun-related tools, knives, cases, locks, cartridge boxes and belts, and ammunition for collectors. Show hours are Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults, children 12 and younger are admitted free. All persons under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

Plus, the Concealed Weapons/Firearms Safety Course fee is $45 per person. The classes are offered on both days at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and last approximately two hours. All students must attend the range training and the range fee is $5. Appointments are not needed for these classes, nor are firearms. Parking is $5 per car or $10 per RV or bus for each time a vehicle enters the grounds. For more information and online admission coupons, visit online www.suncoastgunshows.com.

Oct. 17-18: Slamfest Custom Car & Show:  Mini Madness presents its 18th annual custom car and mini-truck show featuring over 1,400 custom vehicles on display at the Charles M. Davis Special Events Center and outdoors at the Fairgrounds. Activities include a burnout competition, car club games and on-site vendors selling merchandise. Thousands of dollars in giveaways and prizes will be awarded to Best of Show for import car, domestic car, and mini and full size truck/SUV categories.

Event hours are Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. General admission is $15 per person each day and free for children ages 12 and younger. Parking is $5 per car or $10 per RV or bus. For more information, visit www.minimadness.com.

Oct. 30: Concert - Styx & REO Speedwagon: Styx will perform in concert with special guests REO Speedwagon and Night Ranger at the Ford Amphitheatre. Ticket prices are $59.50, $39.50, $29.50 and $19.50 for each reserved seat or $60 for a 4-pack of reserved seating tickets. The lawn area is closed for this concert. Rain or shine. For the latest concert information about Ford Amphitheatre events, visit online www.livenation.com or call 813-740-2446.

Oct. 31-Nov. 1: Florida's Largest Fall Home Show: Held in the Expo Hall, Florida's Largest Fall Home Show provides a one-stop marketplace to see the latest products and services in remodeling, decorating, landscaping and furnishings for the home. Show hours are Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Ticket prices are $8 for adults; seniors ages 55 and up pay $7 each, and children under 12 enter free with an adult. Parking is $5 per car or $10 per RV or bus. For more information, visit www.bighomeshow.com or call Turner Exposition at 813-677-6925.

Ok, so that was a lot of info, but believe it or not, there is much more going on at the Fairgrounds throughout the rest of October!  So, get out there and have some fun! 

And as always, keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, and other Tampa Bay area events. 

 

Hey everyone!  Travis here with some great things to do in Tampa Bay for Halloween!  And these are taking placed at the famed Tampa Theatre.  From scarry movies to tours, they have something for the entire family.  So, here we go:

Sunday, Oct. 25 - GHOSTS & GARGOYLES: Costumes, crafts, cartoons and a scavenger hunt are all part of this family fun event.  It's $5 for adults and $2 for kids 12 and under.  The event, from 2 to 5 p.m., will feature Halloween crafts, a scavenger hunt and “ghost walk” through the Theatre, free popcorn and special onscreen entertainment, all for the admission price of $5 per adult and $2 per child under 12. Costumes are encouraged and concessions will be available for purchase.
 

Friday, Oct. 30 - CREATURE FEATURE DOUBLE FEATURE:  FRANKENSTEIN MEETS THE WOLFMAN & THE MUMMY
It all starts at 7:30pm.  Two Frights for One Price!  $9 adult; $7 kids 2 -12, senior, military, Tampa Theatre members.
PLUS!  Audience Halloween Costume Parade on Stage Before the First Movie.  In case you haven't seen these classics, here's a review for you:
 

Frankenstein Meets The Wolfman (1943)
Over 10 years after first turning down the role, Bela Lugosi donned the neck bolts and platform boots to play Frankenstein's monster for the first and only time in Frankenstein Meets the Wolfman. Lon Chaney, Jr. gets in on the campy Halloween fun by reprising his most famous role of Larry Talbot, better known as The Wolf Man. Sure, the Wolf Man died at the end of that film, but who’s gonna split hairs here? Unfortunately, Larry’s furry little problem wasn’t solved by death or resurrection, so, naturally, the only option available is to seek out Dr. Frankenstein. In his quest, Larry stumbles upon Frankenstein’s Monster instead and is convinced by his scientist buddy Dr. Mannering (dating Frankenstein’s daughter, natch) that it is, in fact, the Monster who can cure Larry. As you might expect, a climactic battle between ol’ Wolfie and the Legendary Lugosi ensues. You’ll hoot and howl at this great Creature Feature Halloween classic.
 

The Mummy (1932)
You have to hand it to the walking dead. What they lack in speed and agility, they more than make up for in sheer single-minded determination. The Mummy’s Im-Ho-Tep is a case in point. He's an ancient Egyptian priest, cursed for his terrible crimes against the gods. A team of British archaeologists who can’t leave well enough alone dig up his sarcophagus, along with a box inscribed with a warning that opening it will unleash death and destruction. You'll never guess what they do. Once freed, Im-Ho-Tep takes on the appropriately evil alias Ardath Bey and gets to the task of resurrecting his ancient lover--which will, of course, require a living human surrogate. While the premise may sound formulaic, The Mummy in fact turns out to be bracingly weird, relying on atmospheric creepiness to set the eerie tone. Boris Karloff gives a terrific performance as Im-Ho-Tep in this dreamlike masterpiece. Stock up on ace bandages and prepare for a good spooky evening.
 
Saturday, Oct. 31 - HISTORY & HAUNTS TOUR: Just in time for Halloween, escape into the past in Tampa Theatre first-ever History and Haunts Tour, blending the amazing history of this 83 year old classic movie palace with tales of the paranormal experienced by staff and guests over the years.  The tour includes a creepy concert on the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ, as well as a special audio-visual presentation containing historic photos of the theatre as well as spectral evidence (photos, electronic voice phenomenon, etc.) gathered at this national landmark. Tickets are limited, so advanced purchase is strongly recommended. Note: Since this tour includes the frank discussion of ghosts and paranormal phenomenon, no children under 5 will be admitted.

It happens from 11am to 1pm and tickets are $10.00 adults, $8.00 senior, student, military, children 5-12, $5.00 Tampa Theatre members.  Just contact Janice Strand at janice@tampatheatre.org if you want to attend! 

So, there you have it, plenty of activity for anyone and everyone for this Halloween!  So, get out there and enjoy.  But, there are plenty of fun things to do at the Tampa Theatre throughout the month, and the year, so log on to www.tampatheatre.org to get the full scoop!

and as always, keep checking back here for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, and other Tampa Bay area events. 
 

So we're in the midst of the 20th Anniversary of the Clip Film Festival this week. Can you believe it? Twenty years "celebrating life in pictures"! Anyone been to any screenings or special events yet? I was unable to attend opening night, as I was out of town for a work obligation and I'm sorry I missed it. Las year's celebration was incredible and I can only imagine how they planned to top themselves for the 20th Anniversary. Screenings and special events are happening daily on both sides of the Bay. For a complete schedule, click here.  

I'm looking forward to attending this afternoon's media preview of the new CineBistro @ Hyde Park Village. Thanks for the invite, Katy. The grand opening happens this Friday, October 16th. You know the drill - high-end food, bar, great service, plus all your favorite films. Should be a great addition to the Hyde Park scene. It's also the home of the 2010 Gasparilla International Film Festival.

Speaking of Gasparilla, just got word of their next event via press release, here's a snipit: 

The Gasparilla International Film Festival in conjunction with Brokenmold Entertainment is proud to present a special performance by acclaimed singer/songwriter Matt Butcher live in concert at the Market on 7th Ave in Ybor City on October 22. The show will benefit the Gasparilla International Film Festival and will be preceded by a screening of the independent film, Visioneers, starring Zach Galifianakis, who was most recently seen in 'The Hangover' and the new series on HBO, Bored to Death.  Tampa fusionists Poetry 'n Lotion will close out the evening.

Should be a great event! Full details, including show times are online. Hope to see you there.

A shout out to the Guzzo Brothers who kick off filming today of their latest indie project, 'Caged Dreams'. I'm visiting the set this week so I'll be sure to snap some photos to share. Good luck guys!
 

Greetings! It's Lisa, and I am back to tell you all about this weekend's fun and exciting Labor Day events!

Start your long weekend off early - tonight - at the Tropicana Field by supporting the Tampa Bay Rays as they face the Boston Red Sox in the third game of the 3-day series. Game time is 7:08 p.m. If you miss this game, no worries, you have all weekend to go out and support the Rays as they have another 3-day series against the Detroit Tigers. The game to go to - Saturday night! Why, because you'll get a FREE concert afterwards from the Beach Boys! GO RAYS!

If you can't make it out to the Rays game, stop by MOSI with your family to experience the IMAX film Van Gogh: Brush with Genius. Here, you'll see the extraordinary colors and passionate brushwork of Vincent van Gogh take on new life in the dazzling giant screen film. Audiences will re-live Van Gogh's life journey through his letters, visit the landscapes that inspired him, and discover a Van Gogh they never knew before.


In more of an outdoor mood? Ok, we can work with that! Head over to the Ford Amphitheatre on either Friday or Saturday to experience an outdoor concert. Your choices: Friday night - Depeche Mode. Saturday night - Lil' Wayne. Variety....that's one thing Tampa has a lot of!

Feely artsy? Ok! The Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center presents "My Children! My Africa!" by Athol Fugard on Friday at 8 p.m. The story examines the power of learning and the potency of words, ideas and hope in a time of heightened political and social unrest. Mr. M., a dedicated black teacher in a segregated township, is determined to pair his most gifted student with an enthusiastic white schoolgirl in an English literature competition.

Need a little more action...? Check out Xtreme Fighting Championships (XFC) – the southeast’s largest independent Mixed Martial Arts promotion and the top-drawing promotion in the history of Florida MMA. They are returning to the St. Pete Times Forum in downtown Tampa on Saturday night at 7 p.m. Don’t miss the action!
 

If this isn’t enough, log on to www.VisitTampaBay.com for more things to do in Tampa Bay and Tampa Bay area events. Enjoy your holiday weekend!

~Cheers!