Ybor City

Hi everyone. We're excited to have a guest blog today by Joe Laing with El Monte RV Rentals!  Here you go:

Whether you are planning a family RV vacation to Tampa Bay or have Tampa on your Florida itinerary and plan to fly in to take in the sights, there is high adventure waiting for you in this exciting city. Sometimes even Tampa residents get so involved in their workaday world, they forget there are so many things for the whole family to do right at home.

Of course, you can't neglect the most important attractions in town. The first family adventure should be the famous Busch Gardens. This theme park has rides, shows and plenty of animal exhibits. Take the sky lift ride and get a unique view of the wildlife. Another must-see is Serengeti Safari at Busch Gardens, an unforgettable trip of over 65 acres of African Plain where you'll enjoy getting up close and personal with zebras, ostriches and much more.
 
When you love animals and sea life, Tampa Bay is the place to come. The Florida Aquarium offers an educational and interactive experience with touch tanks that allow kids to get "hands-on" with fascinating creatures. They also provide a Wild Dolphin Cruise so you can see some amazing dolphins in their natural habitat – Tampa Bay.

Something tells me it's all happening at the zoo, and Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo is no exception. Visit this highly rated zoo! The animals will love it if you do. The Big Cat Rescue is worth a visit, too. This is a large sanctuary dedicated to big cats, with over 100 lions, cougars and more.

Be sure to take the family to see the Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center just south of Tampa. If visiting from November through April, you'll see manatees, an endangered species that finds love and attention here. Other times of the year, you can play games, see the butterfly gardens and experience a hurricane simulator. Best of all is the free admission.

Adventure Island has 30 acres of water rides, and if you desire a day of swimming in a giant wave pool, playing in waterfalls or rushing down a corkscrew slide, you'll love it here. The Florida sun isn't quite as ferocious when you visit this theme park.

The historic neighborhood of Ybor City is a wonderful place to soak up some interesting history. One of the best ways to absorb that history is to engage in the Secret City Walks, where you stick those headphones on your head and get a self-guided audio tour. This experience really brings the ghosts of Ybor City to life for the whole family.

No matter if you have an RV camper or car, you will find it extremely rewarding to drive over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, keeping an eye out for the dolphins that often appear in the water below. Great views are yours to behold from this marvelous bridge. You can also fit in some fishing from the nearby pier. Make it a point to stop at Bayshore Boulevard, a sidewalk that has the claim to fame of being the longest sidewalk in the world. Winding along the bay, you will truly enjoy the 4.5-mile stroll.

Love to visit parks and take part in many different outdoor activities? Lettuce Lake Park offers canoe rentals, fishing, hiking and a lovely path to take a bicycle. Another popular park to take a nice little trek through the woods is Al Lopez Park, 132 acres of great wildlife and a pond where you can throw in a line.

Speaking of canoeing, the perfect place to get away from the crowds is Hillsborough River State Park. Once you move away from the main picnic area, you will get some solitude and relaxation in the fragrant woods. This state park has an RV campground as well as tent camping. Hiking is great here too. Of course, if you prefer the beach you can take the Courtney Campbell Causeway over to Clearwater, and make your way right to Clearwater Beach. Walk out on the pier and enjoy the fresh salt air. The sand is clean and white.

Once back in Tampa, you may wish to see some of the museums in the city. There are many, but you can get a unique view of some of Tampa history at the Henry B. Plant Museum, once an opulent hotel where Teddy Roosevelt and Babe Ruth stayed. Another site you shouldn't miss if the Museum of Science and Industry, with over 450 hands-on activities that the kids will love.

Yes, Tampa offers much adventure for any family, whether exploring on an RV vacation or touring by car.

About the Author
Joe Laing is the Marketing Director for El Monte RV Rentals. You can see more great RV vacation ideas in their Monty's Musings RV Travel Blog. Be sure to check their Florida Rentals page for a luxury motorhome for a Florida vacation adventure.

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex back with some exciting news about a wonderful event taking place in Ybor City!

A Taste of Italy, right in the heart of Historic Ybor City... is celebrating  its 15th Anniversary this weekend!

The festivities kicked –off last night with  Wines of Italy and they will continue throughout the weekend.

Celebrate fabulous Italian Cinema with Cinema Italiano at The Italian Club with a showing of "Mid-August Lunch"  tonight at 7pm and a showing of "Christ in Concrete" on Saturday, March  31 at 7pm. 
Admission is FREE,  with donations accepted at the door.  Espresso, Dolci and popcorn will be available.

On Saturday, March 31, Festa Italiana is hosting a free day of festivities for the entire family to enjoy.  Festa Saturday features the annual Bocce Ball Invitational Tournament in Centennial Park, an assortment of Italian food, the Italian Idol Competition and much more.

Festa Italiana's 15th Annual Event takes place on Sunday, April 1, when Centennial Park and Historic Ybor City host over thirty Tampa Bay area restaurants and caterers.  The Taste of Italy tent will feature classic Italian dishes, cocktails and  much more.

What better way to spend your weekend than outdoors in Tampa Bay, enjoying delicious Italian food, fun games and great music with friends and family? I don’t think anything can beat that… Don’t miss out!

Festa Italiana benefits the Italian Club Restoration Fund. 

For more information, please visit:  www.FestaItalianaTampa.com

I hope you all enjoy the festa! Check back with us often for more information on Things To Do In Tampa Bay!

Attention to all of those looking for a fun and unique experience! Segway Experience at Ybor City offers you a one-of-a-kind way to see Tampa Bay…on two wheels!

For only $65 per person, you can choose from three different 2-hour tours:

Historic Ybor Tour
Enjoy a glide back in time on the bustling sidewalks of Ybor City. This historic tour will expose you to the origins of Tampa's Latin Quarter and its beginnings as a cigar manufacturing town. Its skilled Cuban residents rolled some of the finest cigars from the imported Cuban tobacco that was readily available from nearby Havana ports.

You'll learn about this multi-cultural city and the importance of the immigrant communities that created it. At one time a separate city from Tampa, Ybor has always had a rich influence from Spanish, Italian, German, Cuban and other populations who still run the eclectic café's, artist’s studios, and shops of Ybor. Ybor brings you a feast for the senses, and you’re bound to smell the roasting coffee beans and the fresh tobacco. Ybor is a treat for those who love local restaurants, and who want to revel in "old Florida". As you glide through town with a guide to show you the landmarks and the local flavor, you're easily able to imagine life in Tampa in another era.

The Riverwalk Tour
A refreshing ride along the Tampa Riverwalk. Your journey will take you along beautiful Tampa Bay and you’ll learn about the original Indian settlement and Tampa history.
You’ll also glide by the St. Pete Times Forum- Home of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Tampa Bay History Center, Tampa Convention Center and the Jose Gasparilla Pirate Ship. The journey continues to Franklin Street’s pedestrian mall through downtown Tampa and ends at the ornate Tampa Theatre, a city landmark. On our return, you’ll glide along the Hillsborough River with majestic views of the University of Tampa by the Glazer Children's Museum, The Florida Aquarium and Port of Tampa.

Cigar and Café Con Leche Tour
Indulge in the best of Ybor, and savor the coffee and cigars of this famous, almost-Cuban city?
Then let us take you to some of the best stops of the historic tour route, and watch, smell, taste, sit and enjoy. This tour spends a bit less time gliding – and a lot more time savoring this exquisite area! We’ll still share all the best history with you, but you'll also visit the Naviera Coffee Mills for "Café Con Leche". The roasting master will demonstrate how Cuban coffee is prepared and you'll walk the roasting line. In keeping with the best of Ybor, you’ll also visit the cigar specialty shops to witness skilled rollers. The best cigars are still hand rolled today, as they were back in the late 19th century when Ybor was born.

There’s nothing cooler than modern day technology! Segways bring a new edge to the tourism industry and we are so excited to offer this experience here in Tampa!

Segway Experience is located right on 8th Ave at Centro Ybor and you can reserve your tour today by calling (813) 455-7854 or emailing YborCityTours@Segway.com. *Group tour prices are also offered.         
Happy Explorations!

Check out Tampa’s Latin Quarter in Ybor City’s National Historic District and get a glimpse of what the Visitor Information Center offers. The buildings unique interior decoration is very ornate and fitting to the Latin vibe of the area. The interior design and setup allows you to read into a piece of history, while engaging in what the city has to offer.

There is always something fun happening in Ybor City, the center recognizes and provides you with information regarding the many festivals and events taking place such as Guavaween, The Cigar Festival, Fiesta Day, Flan Fest, and Ybor Aficionado Days.

Serving as a start to the Museum that is located on 9th street, the Visitor Information Center prompts you with a seven minute video, engaging you in the culture and offerings of the historic area, and then sending you on your way to the Museum a few blocks away. If you are looking for unique trinkets and gifts to go home with, fun festive goodies are found throughout the Center, affordable for all to take a piece of Ybor City with them.  

The Center is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm and Sunday from noon – 6 pm. For more information, please visit www.ybor.org.
 

Hi everyone!  Travis back with some great Tampa Bay area events for the rest of March, all happening in historic Ybor City.  In case you haven't read before, Ybor City is one of my favorite places in the Tampa Bay area, so make sure you put these on your calendar:

Saturday, March 17
 Rough Rider’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade
 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry Regiment Rough Riders hosts an annual St. Patrick's Day Parade in Ybor City. Thousands turn out to celebrate, watch the parade along 7th Avenue and catch lots and lots of beads!
 8 - 9:30 p.m. | Along 7th Avenue
 
Friday, March 23 - Sunday, March 25
 American Pinup Burlesque Fest
 American Pinup Burlesque Fest connects pinup, burlesque, and rockabilly artists and enthusiasts. The festival activities include Miss Pin Up America Pageant, the Burlesque America Competition, hot rod and motorcycle shows, special guest burlesque performances, workshops on pinup, burlesque, hair, make-up and photography, live bands, and a tattoo competition. On Saturday night, Animal Planet's Pit Boss Shorty Rossi joins the fun for Party Live a Pinup benefit for Pinups for Pitbulls.
 The Cuban Club, 2010 Avenida Republica de Cuba
 
Thursday, March 29
 Festa Italiana presents Wines of Italy
 The Wines of Italy tasting experience will include samples of more than 70 wines from Italy while enjoying Italian cuisine from Carraba's, desserts and live entertainment. The event benefits the Italian Club Restoration Fund.
 6 - 9 p.m. | The Italian Club of Tampa, 1731 E 7th Avenue
 
Thursday, March 29
 Chamber Music Ybor with Julian Toha
 HCC Visual and Performing Arts presents Julian Toha in Piano in 3D.
 7:30 p.m. | HCC Ybor City, Mainstage Theatre, Performing Arts Building, 2204 N. 15th Street
 
Friday, March 30
 Festa Italiana presents Cinema Italiano: The Mid-August Lunch
 Experience award winning Italian films at Festa Italiana's Cinema Italiano while enjoying espresso and dolci. On Friday, Cinema Italiano presents The Mid-August Lunch. Donations accepted at the door to benefit The Italian Club.
 7 p.m. | The Italian Club of Tampa, 1731 E 7th Avenue
 
Saturday, March 31
 Festa Italiana presents Festa Saturday
 A full day of free, family-friendly activities on Festa Saturday includes the annual Bocce Ball Invitational Tournament, Italian Idol competition, homemade vino competition and tasting, and an assortment of Italian food alongside the Ybor City Saturday Market.
 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. | Centennial Park, 1600 E. 8th Avenue
 
Festa Italiana presents Cinema Italiano: Christ in Concrete
 Experience award winning Italian films at Festa Italiana's Cinema Italiano while enjoying espresso and dolci. On Saturday, Cinema Italiano presents Christ in Concrete. Donations accepted at the door to benefit The Italian Club.
 6 p.m. | The Italian Club of Tampa, 1731 E 7th Avenue
 
Sunday, April 1
 Festa Italiana
 A true taste of Italy in historic Ybor City. Festa Italiana includes 30+ restaurants and caterers, entertainment, Grape Stomping presentation, cooking demonstrations and contests. Entertainment will include singer Matt Morgan, The Russo Brothers, The Fabulous Rockers and Bella Danza Dance Collective. The celebration kicks off with Sunday Morning Catholic Mass at The Italian Club followed by a Procession and Walking Parade to Centennial Park.
 11:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. | Centennial Park, 1600 E. 8th Avenue
 
And here are some recurring events that you need to stop off and experience:
 
Now - March 29
 Visions and Journeys Exhibition
 Judith Salmon uses wax to express the changeable and fleeting nature of things. Renowned Aripeka artist Leslie Neumann layers pigment, melted beeswax and oil paint to create paintings with a haunting luminosity.
 Most days 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. | HCC Ybor City Art Gallery, Performing Arts Building, 2204 N. 15th Street
 
Now - September 15
 Ybor City Architecture: Our Stories
 The Ybor City Museum Society's featured exhibit, Ybor City Architecture: Our Stories, celebrates the dynamic stories and transformation of Ybor City's iconic buildings, unique casitas and signature architectural elements.
 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. | Ybor City Museum Society, 1818 E. 9th Avenue
 
Every Wednesday - Movie Night at Tre Amici at the Bunker from 7 - 9 p.m. at 1907 N. 19th Street
 
Every Friday - Italian Happy Hour at The Italian Club from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. at 1731 E. 7th Avenue
 
Every Saturday
 Ybor City Saturday Market from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Centennial Park, 1600 E. 8th Avenue
 Pets on the Patio from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. at Gaspar's Grotto, 1805 E. 7th Avenue
 
Second Saturday of the Month - Ybor Art Series showcases a combination of YAA studio artists and outside artist members at the member gallery from 6 - 9 p.m. at 1521 1/2 7th Avenue
 
Now, there seems to be something for everyone, no matter what you're looking for, so stop by and see what these events are all about.  Plus, there's so much more.  If you're looking for more information, just visit www.YborCityOnline.com. The site also has a directory of restaurants and shops.
 
And we'll see you back here for more Tampa Bay area events.

Good Afternoon! JoLynn here to share about our recent visit to Buds, Blooms & Beyond, a Tampa Bay & Company partner!

As a family owned and operated business serving the greater Tampa area, we learned first-hand how they offer only the finest floral arrangements and gifts, backed by service that is friendly and most importantly, prompt!

If you’re looking for high-style floral arrangements and gift baskets, to European/dish gardens or tropicals, they’re the company to call! We also learned they have serviced the Tampa Bay Buccaneers florals for over seven years. Chances are if you’ve been in Raymond James Stadium for a Bucs game, you’ve enjoyed their arrangements!

Their shop serves Tampa, Safety Harbor, Odessa, Oldsmar, Lutz, Temple Terrace, Davis Islands, Palm Harbor, Brandon, Carrollwood, Ybor City, and MacDill AFB.

Hi everyone.  Travis back with some delicious things to do in Tampa Bay.  Let me start by saying that I love Ybor City.  Second, I love good food.  So this naturally leads me to one of the staples of Ybor City - La Tropicana.  This place is more like a tradition. 

Team Liger stopped in today for lunch, and we weren't disappointed.  As we walked by the reserved table in the corner for Mr. Manteiga, we found a spot just a few feet away from the counter.  As we sat down the talking at the table immediately stopped as everyone looked through the menu to figure out what they were going to try...and we tried a lot. 

A pork sandwich...a Cuban sandwich...an egg cuban...salads...black beans and white rice.  We tried just about everything on the menu, inlcuding their cafe con leche after it was all over, and to say that it was all delicious really doesn't cover it. 

There's no place like La Tropicana, so if you get the time, swing in and grab a bite.  This place is certainly worth the trip. 

We'll see you back here for more updates about dining in Tampa Bay, as well as info on other great Tampa Bay entertainment options.

Hello there folks! Jerm here to tell you about an awesome event coming your way soon!

A handful of top bartenders from across Tampa Bay will put their skills to the test as 813area.com presents the Inaugural Bar Wars bartending competition at Gaspar's Grotto in Ybor City on Saturday, March 10.

Bar Wars will kick off at 1 p.m. and pit 10 Tampa bartenders against each other in an ultimate competition of speed, skill, bartending humor, and much more.

Competing bartenders at Bar Wars include Pat Kelleher from MacDinton's, Reagan Ramesar from Gaspar's Grotto, Rich Harding from The Dog's Bollocks, Eddie Teti from O'Brien's Brandon, Brett Cardoso from The Rack, Terrance Joseph from O'Brien's Tampa, Butch Johnson from Martini Republic, Crystal Thomas from Bad Monkey, Steff Cianci from Hyde Park Cafe, and Amber Hanson from Coyote Ugly.

Challenges at Bar Wars will include fastest drink, funniest bartending joke, obstacle course, bar trivia, guess the drink, special drink, and more. Bar Wars kicks off at 1 p.m. and admission is completely free. Gaspar's Grotto will also offer great drink specials including $2 beers, $3 Sailor Jerry, $2 shots, $3 wells, and $6 pitchers all throughout the day.

This is not one to miss. Head out to Gaspar's Grotto in Ybor City on Saturday March 10 to party and watch some of the best bartending in Tampa Bay as 813area.com presents Bar Wars! Bar Wars is sponsored by Sailor Jerry and Flipcups.com.

That's it for now, but stay tuned in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay and Tampa Bay area events!

Hello there folks! Hope this Tuesday morning is getting off to a great start! March in Tampa Bay is going to be filled with great events, and there is one going on in Ybor City this Thursday to get things off to great start!

Hop on the Jolly Trolley or put on your walking shoes for the Buildings Alive! Architecture Hop on Thursday, March 1, 5-9 p.m., presented by the Ybor City Museum Society.  Enjoy food and beverages as you tour some of Ybor City's most beautifully restored historic buildings, each with its own architectural style and unique story. 

Join the fun by participating in a scavenger hunt with prizes. Free parking is available for the first 120 cars at Stantec, 2205 N. 20th St., Tampa, FL 33605.

Now today we are giving away two tickets to this amazing event so listen up! As usual all you have to do is answer some questions on Facebook and/or Twitter and you'll be entered to win a pair of tickets! Remember to retweet or share the original question on Facebook and/or Twitter to increase your chances of winning! Okay here goes!

1. This Ybor City landmark was constructed in 1895, and was originally the "Ybor Land and Improvement Company?"
2. True or False: The Centro Asturiano de La Habana was founded on May 2, 1886 to provide medical assistance, social activities, education, and recreational opportunities?
3. True or False: A total of 84 buildings in Ybor City, Tampa’s National Historic Landmark District, are currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places?

Okay folks, that is all for now, but be sure to check back this afternoon for our winner and get to guessing!

Starting point for Buildings Alive! is at either Stantec or the Ybor City Museum State Park. Purchase advance admissions for $20 at www.cltampa.com/BuildingsAlive. Admission at the door is $25. Visit www.ybormuseum.org or call 813.247.1434 for more information.

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know about a fun way to tour some of Ybor City’s most beautiful restored historic buildings.
  
Enjoy food and beverages as you tour Ybor City at Buildings Alive! Architecture Hop on Thursday, March 1 from 5-9 p.m.
 
Join the fun by participating in a scavenger hunt... with prizes! Tours and clues to the scavenger hunt will reveal "insider information" about each building and how they are being preserved, restored and repurposed. 

The starting point for Buildings Alive! is at  Stantec or the Ybor City Museum State Park. Purchase advance admissions for $20 at www.cltampa.com/BuildingsAlive. Admission at the door is $25. Visit www.ybormuseum.org or call 813.247.1434 for more information.

 Free parking is available for the first 120 cars at Stantec, 2205 N. 20th St., Tampa, FL 33605. 
 
This is a great way to learn about some of Tampa Bay’s history, while enjoying a nice evening in Ybor City! 

 
Check back with us often for more information on Things To Do In Tampa Bay & for more information on Tampa Bay’s History.
 

Hello all! Jerm here post Valentine's Day and I hope all of you had a great one with your loved ones and significant others! I hope you are in the mood to play some trivia, cause we have a fun giveaway for you today!

It's that time of year folks, when colorful floats will light up the night in Ybor City Saturday, February 18, when the Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago presents the Pin Chasers Knight Parade, brought to you by Tampa Bay’s MOR and estrellaTV Tampa Bay.
 
This awesome annual parade will begin at 7 p.m. and run along 7th Avenue, from Nuccio Parkway east to 22nd Street. It will last about two hours, after which the shops and restaurants in Ybor City remain open for guests' enjoyment.

Free spectator viewing will be available along the parade route, and bleacher seat tickets are available for purchase at www.knightparade.com.
 
One of the best parts of the evening will be the special guests invited! The 2012 grand marshal is Mrs. World, April Lufriu. Special guest of MOR, Jerry Springer, will serve as an honorary grand marshal. I don't know about you guys, but I will be here for that!

Now we are giving a way four bleacher seat tickets for the Pin Chasers Knight Parade this Saturday in Ybor City! That's a pretty sweet prize for some luck winner!

As awesome as we already are, we are giving one lucky person a chance to win two tickets to this awesome event on Facebook or Twitter! All you have to do is answer some trivia for us and you will be entered in to win our drawing later this evening!

Remember, all you have to do is answer correctly the trivia below and you are entered! Keep in mind that for those of you who re-tweet the original post on Twitter, that increases your chances of winning. Same goes if you share the post on Facebook! Enough babbling, here goes!

1. True or False: Grand Marshall April Lufriu is a 42 year old Tampa native with heritage roots from Guanaja, Honduras.
2. True or False: The Krewe of the Knights of Sant' Yago has hosted the Knight Parade every year since 1973, and it is considered the largest of its kind in the Southeast.
3. The Krewe of the Knights of Sant' Yago's largest fundraiser of the year, a portion of the parade proceeds benefit this foundation, now in its 17th year of existence?

Okay folks, get to answering! We'll announce the winner later this evening! 

Good afternoon everyone, Alex here to let you know about a fun way to kick off Gasparilla early. 

With the Gasparilla Parade quickly approaching, the parties are already starting to begin.

On Thursday, January 19, former NFL linebacker Ryan Nece is hosting the
Kickoff to Gasparilla party at Gaspar’s Grotto in historic Ybor City.

The party will be held from 5:30-8:30p.m. on the patio of the World Famous
Gaspar’s Grotto located at 1805 E. 7th Ave. in Tampa’s Ybor City. DJ Papi
of Wild Out Entertainment will provide the entertainment throughout the
evening.

There is no admission or cover charge to attend the party, but guests are
encouraged to enjoy dinner and drinks, as Gaspar’s will donate a portion
of the night’s proceeds to the Ryan Nece Foundation.

Also, many great raffle prizes will be up for grabs, including two tickets to Gasparilla Bash 2012 on Bayshore, a gift certificate to Skydive City, a round of golf for four at Tampa Palms Country Club, a two-night weekend stay at the Hilton
Carillon and more!

Proceeds from food and beverage sales, as well as raffle ticket sales, will
benefit the Ryan Nece Foundation.

Enjoy a great party! Check back with us often for more information on Things To Do In Tampa Bay.

Good morning Tampa Bay, Alex here to tell you about a five-course winemaker and chef dinner taking place at The Columbia Restaurant Ybor City.

The Columbia- Ybor City is hosting a five-course winemaker & chef dinner featuring the wines of Bodegas y Viñedos O.Fournier of Spain, Chile and Argentina with co-founders José Manuel Ortega, president and Nadia Haron de Ortega, chef, of O.Fournier.

O.Fournier was selected five times for Wine Spectator Grand Tour (200 Best Wineries Worldwide). And in 2008 and 2009, one of two wineries in the Tour with two invitations, Mendoza and Ribera del Duero.

This dinner is taking place on Wednesday, January 25th, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. $100 per person, all inclusive. 

Don’t miss out on this fun night of great food and wine. Make your reservation today by calling 813-248-4961. For more information, see www.columbiarestaurant.com

Enjoy a wonderful evening at The Columbia Restaurant Ybor City!

Check back with us often for more information on Tampa Bay Dining, Restaurants In Tampa Bay and for information onThings To Do In Tampa Bay!

Hi everyone.  Travis back with a great update about some unique Tampa Bay Entertainment that everyone should enjoy at least once!  April Lufriu, reigning Mrs. America and Mrs. World, has agreed to be the official grand marshal of the February 18 Pin Chasers Knight Parade (brought to you by MOR and estrellaTV).

That's right...that means she'll be celebrating with everyone here in Tampa Bay! 

Lufriu is a Tampa native (another awesome point), wife and mother of three.  She earned her Mrs. America title in May 2011, and Mrs. World in December 2011.  You can look for Lufriu to lead the colorful Knight Parade celebration, along with her family. Starting at 7 p.m., Saturday, February 18, the parade runs along 7th Avenue in hisotric Ybor City, from Nuccio Parkway to 22nd Street.

Oh, and in case you haven't heard, daytime television personality Jerry Springer will also be appearing in the parade on the MOR float, as honorary grand marshal.  That's right, everyone needs to be yelling, "JER-RY......JER-RY......JER-RY"!!!!!  Ok, so maybe I've seen the show once or twice, but you get the point.  It's going to be a great time so make sure you make your plans to be there. 

And here's a tidbit about Lufriu that we definitely wanted to share: Lufriu was diagnosed in 2010 with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), a genetic retinal degenerative eye disease that gradually leads to blindness, which also affects two of her children. She and her sister established the Foundation Fighting Blindness and its Tampa Chapter in 2007, and co-chaired Tampa’s first VisionWalk in 2008. Lufriu, now the Tampa Bay Chapter President, is on a mission to find a cure for RP. She speaks at numerous events to raise awareness and funds for retinal degenerative eye diseases, and is currently the national spokesperson for the Foundation Fighting Blindness.

For more information, visit www.knightparade.com, become a fan on facebook www.facebook.com/KnightParade, or follow on Twitter www.twitter.com/KSYKnightParade.  And whatever you do, have fun!  We'll see you back here for more great things to do in Tampa Bay and other Tampa Bay area events. 

Hey everyone!  Travis back with another update about some great things to do in Tampa Bay.  Of course I love the entire area, but one of our most unique areas is historic Ybor City.  And they are kicking the New Year off the right way...with a ton of Tampa Bay area events! 

So, we wanted to bring the highlights of what's happening in Ybor City in January.  Here you go:

January 5 - 26, 2012
Gil DeMeza Exhibition
Hillsborough Community College’s Ybor Campus Art Gallery presents a solo exhibition by Professor Emeritus of the University of Tampa, Gil DeMeza. The gallery and exhibition are free and open to the public.
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. most weekdays | HCC Ybor City, Performing Arts Building, Palm Ave & 15th Street, www.hccfl.edu/yc/art-gallery.aspx

Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Community Redevelopment Agency Board Meeting
Members of the Tampa City Council sitting as the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) will hold a special meeting in Ybor City this month to hear community comments about development service and issues affecting Ybor City.
6 p.m. | HCC Ybor City Campus, Ybor Building, Ybor Room, 2001 N. 14th Street, Tampa

Saturday, January 14
Ybor Art Association Open House
Meet member artists at the Ybor Art Association open house.
6 - 9 p.m. | Ybor Art Colony, 1523 ½ E. 7th Ave, Tampa | www.yborart.org

Wednesday, January 17, 2012
MLK: A Dream Set in Stone
Celebrate Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy with words of inspiration from Dr. Shawn Robinson, and keynote speaker LTC Craig Myatt. The event will also include staff, faculty and student performances.
11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. | HCC Ybor City Campus, Ybor Building, Ybor Room, 2001 N. 14th Street, Tampa

Artist Reception: Gil DeMeza
Gil DeMeza, Professor Emeritus of the University of Tampa, is featured in a solo exhibition at Hillsborough Community College’s Ybor Campus Art Gallery throughout January. Join DeMeza for a reception and gallery talk. The gallery and exhibition are free and open to the public.
5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. | HCC Ybor City, Performing Arts Building, Palm Ave & 15th Street, Tampa www.hccfl.edu/yc/art-gallery.aspx

Thursday, January 19
Bay Area Concierge Association Meeting
Members of Bay Area Concierge Association (BACA) are invited to experience Ybor City at their January meeting.
6 - 8:30 p.m. | Don Vicente de Ybor Inn, 1915 Avenida Republica De Cuba, Tampa | www.bayareaconcierge.com

Friday, January 20
Emerge Tampa Bay’s Invasion 2012
Celebrate "A Night At The Oscars" with Tampa Bay's rising. Professionals of all ages are invited to network with Tampa Bay's premier young professionals and enjoy entertainment, drinks, delectable food, a photo booth, dancing, and more. 
7:30 - 10 p.m. | The Ritz Ybor, 1503 E. 7th Ave, Tampa | www.EmergeTampa.org/invasion

Saturday, January 21
Gasparilla Children’s Parade
The annual Tampa event features a pre-schoolers stroll, parade, fireworks and precision parachute jump from the United States Special Operations Command Jump Team.
11 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. |  along Bayshore Boulevard | www.gasparillaextravaganza.com  

Sunday, January 22, 2012
Chamber Music Series with Bryce Westervelt
HCC Visual and Performing Arts presents Schubert’s Die Schone Mullerin: The Complete song cycle by Franz Schubert to Poems by Wilhelm Muller with Bryce Westervelt, tenor and Timothy McReynolds, piano.
3:00 p.m. | HCC Ybor City, Performing Arts Building, Main Stage Theater (second floor), Palm Ave and 15th Street, Tampa
http://www.hccfl.edu/YC.aspx

January 27-29
Gancho Tampa
Proceeds from the multi-day festival benefit Metro Wellness & Community Centers, St. Pete Pride and GaYBOR District Coalition.
various venues, including The Ritz YBOR and Ampitheatre
www.ganchotampa.com

Saturday, January 28
Mafia Tour by Cigar City Magazine
Scott M. Deitche, author of Cigar City Mafia and The Silent Don: The Criminal Underworld of Santo Trafficante Jr., will take an intimate group on a two hour stroll to old gambling palaces, street corners where some mobsters met their demise, and restaurants where wise guys like famed boss Santo Trafficante Jr. held court. Tickets must be purchased by January 26.
5:30 p.m. | King Corona Cigars, 1523 East 7th Avenue, Tampa
www.CigarCityMagazine.com/shop

Gasparilla Invasion and Pirate Fest
An annual Tampa tradition, the 2012 Seminole Hard Rock Gasparilla Pirate Fest features the historic Gasparilla Invasion and Parade of the Pirates presented by Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, and the Gasparilla Pirate Fest Street Festival.
11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m. | along Bayshore Boulevard, Davis Island, downtown Tampa, Harbour Island
www.Gasparillapiratefest.com

As you can see, the fun starts today, so make sure you mark your calendars and get out to experience historic Ybor City.  Have a great time and we'll see you back here for more Tampa Bay Entertainment options. 

Hi everyone.  Travis back with some great information about MOSI's Festival of Chocolate, taking place next week from January 14-16.  We're giving a list of the who's who in the confectionary world, and they'll all be at MOSI for the Festival. 

MOSI will host Tampa’s second annual Festival of Chocolate, which is Florida’s largest all-chocolate themed event!  The event features the area's best chocolate and confection companies selling treats of everything chocolate from truffles, cakes and cupcakes to cookies, brownies and ice creams. 

Vendors confirmed for the Festival of Chocolate include:
Boola Creamery (KISSIMMEE)
Candy Cottage (Ft. LAUDERDALE)
Candy Clouds Cotton Candy Co. (ORLANDO)
Chateau Confections (WINTER PARK)
Chocolais Wine (TAMPA)
Choffy (TAMPA)
Dove Chocolate Discoveries (TAMPA)
Frostings etc. (SOUTH TAMPA)
Frost the Cake (NEW TAMPA)
Galleria of Chocolate (ORLANDO)
Joey Biscotti (LARGO)
Kookie Krums (DUNEDIN)
La Creperia Cafe (YBOR CITY)
Mikey’s Café & Bakery Co. (HISTORIC SEMINOLE HEIGHTS)
Notter School of Pastry Arts (ORLANDO)
The Olive Tap (WEST PALM BEACH)
The Original Leena's Chocolates (VALRICO)
Picture This Candy Company (ORLANDO)
Planet Smoothie (TEMPLE TERRACE)
PRP Wine International (TAMPA)
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory (ORLANDO)
Just Because Treats (TAMPA BAY/CLEARWATER)
Schakolad Chocolate Factory (SOUTH TAMPA)
Stefano's Gelato (LUTZ)
Sweet Tweets Cakery (CARROLLWOOD)
William Dean Chocolates (BELLAIR BLUFFS)

Here's the best part!!!!!  Entrance into The Festival of Chocolate is complementary with your MOSI admission, which means you get everything MOSI has to offer!!!  PLus, each adult advance purchase ticket will receive two dollars in chocolate coins to spend in The Festival of Chocolate. If you are a MOSI Member, you receive discounted entry pricing at only $10 a ticket and member children can attend for FREE. 

Just visit mosi.org to get more details.  And don't forget, it all happens from Jan. 14-16 at MOSI.  Have fun and get stuffed!  And we'll see you back here for more Tampa Bay Entertainment options for the entire family, plus more great things to do in Tampa Bay. 

Hello Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know how you can join Ybor City in welcoming the Michigan State Spartans and Georgia Bulldogs as they arrive for the 26th Annual Outback Bowl.

Ybor City will be hosting the 26th Anniversary Outback Bowl Parade and Pep Rally this Saturday, December 31, 2011 (New Year's Eve) from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm. 

The parade begins at 20th Street and 7th Avenue proceeds west on 7th Avenue to 14th Street. The event showcases several high school bands and the two Outback Bowl college bands. 

Following the parade, a pep rally takes place in the parking lot at 14th Street and 7th Avenue.  The event ends at 8:30p.m. (Pedestrian barricades will be removed and 7th Avenue will be reopened at 9:00p.m unless crowds dictate otherwise.)

NOTE: This event is sponsored by the Outback Bowl and the City of Tampa.  Vending is not permitted during the event.  This event is not wet-zoned, therefore open containers of alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited on public sidewalks and streets. NO Glass containers will be allowed on balconies or public rights of way.  Balconies will be regulated for occupancy and crowd control.

For information about the parade, please contact Jerry Kulig at 813-874-2695 or visit www.OutbackBowl.com

I hope you enjoy all of the Outback Bowl festivities and have a Happy New Year! Check back with us often for updates on Things To Do in Tampa Bay!

Hi Tampa Bay, is anyone looking for a great place to eat this Christmas? If so, Alex here to let you know that The Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City will be open for lunch and dinner on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. 

On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, The Columbia is offering two traditional Christmas specials, along with the regular dinner menu. All serving begins at 11 a.m.

Some of the special holiday menu items are listed below.

Lechon Asado
Roasted Lechon (pork) marinated with sour orange juice, garlic oregano and bay leaves. Slow roasted until the meat is tender and juicy. Served with Mojo, Yuca, Moros y Cristianos and Platanos Maduros.

Baked Virginia Ham
A traditional holiday favorite, Slices of baked sugar glazed Virginia ham served with homemade mashed potatoes, candied yams, fresh  vegetables and orange sauce.

Christmas features include a cup of one of our world-famous soups or a fresh Caesar Salad. For an additional $2.95, our famous “1905” Salad can be substituted.

The Christmas Day Lechon Asado and Baked Virginia Ham specials will also be offered on Christmas Eve at Columbia Ybor City location only.

Adult Dinner $19.95 Children’s Dinner $5.95

*  The Columbia Café on the Riverwalk in Tampa will serve their regular menu until 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.  The Cafe will be closed on Christmas Day. *

Make your reservation today by visiting, www.columbiarestaurant.com. This is a great way to enjoy a wonderful meal, with your family and friends this holiday!

Check back with us often for updates on Holiday News in Tampa Bay and for information on Things To Do in Tampa Bay!