By Marlene Shaw
In times when everything seems to cost a little more, it’s comforting to know that Gulfport continues to shine with experiences that are free, affordable, and full of heart. Our small-town charm and big sense of community make it easy to enjoy life here – from relaxing on the beach to live music to markets, enjoying diverse cuisine, and creative workshops – there’s always something to enjoy in Gulfport. It’s all about connection, creativity, and community. I also invite you to visit the city of Gulfport’s website at mygulfport.us to explore the full calendar of events and discover the many activities offered through the library, Senior Center, Art Center, History Museum, and more. You can even sign up for the city newsletter to stay in the loop
on all the wonderful ways to enjoy Gulfport.
Community Updates
Now open, enjoy French cuisine at Mademoiselle Paris on the Peninsula Bed & Cocktails veranda. The dining room and bakery is expected to open in November. Enjoy French cuisine and a bakery. Watch for announcements regarding wine tastings.
Storm Recovery Update and Community Preparedness
- Pledge to Evacuate: all are encouraged to participate in community awareness and preparedness. Pledges may be made on the city website: mygulfport.us
- Work continues on the Casino and 54th St. S
- Stormwater system televising is underway.
Upcoming Events in Gulfport
November 1: Gulfport Art in the Yard. Join us for the ninth semi-annual event featuring local artists showcasing their original art in the yards. (Rain date: Saturday, November 2), 10am to 4pm. Visit mygulfport.us/Gulfport-art-in-the-yard to view the map of participating yards and artwork, or pick up a brochure with the map on the day of the event at 2608 Beach Blvd S.
November 7: Brenda McMahon Gallery will present Behind Closed Doors with sculptor, Joyce Curvin, at 2901 Beach Blvd. S, 6-9pm
November 7: DRV Gallery will present artwork of Jack Providenti on Friday, Nov. 7, 5:30pm to 8:30pm. The evening will include music with Jim Gilmour and friends. Located at 5401 Gulfport Blvd. S.
November 8: Heroes Weekend Veterans Parade
Honoring All Who Served – join the parade! The parade will be in downtown Gulfport at 11am. Start at the library and head south on Beach Blvd. S towards the Gulfport Casino Ballroom.
November 8 and 9: VETSports Beach Volleyball Tournament at noon, following the parade. Gulfport Police vs Gulfport Fire Volleyball Match – who will win?! Whether you served in the military or serve on the volleyball court, join the city of Gulfport and VETSports Heroes Weekend.
November 8: Coffee with a Popo is back!
Meet Detective Crowson and our therapy K9, Raja, at Jax in and Out, 4928 Gulfport Blvd. S, 11:30am to 1:30pm.
The Enroy Foundation November Backyard Concert Series
- November 9: Deserie Valloreo and Jim Gilmour at 6:30pm
- November 23: Climbing Trees (McKayla Townsend,
Michael Beck, Jolie Annichiarico) at 6pm. For location and further information: enroy@yahoo.com - November 13: Storytelling Open Mic in the Friends’ Room
at the Gulfport Public Library at 5:45pm to 6:45pm.
For further information: enroy@yahoo.com
November 11: Veterans Day gathering in honor of all veterans and active military for their brave service.Military tunes at 9:45am followed by a welcome message, Color Guard Presentation, and more. 10am, at Veterans Memorial Park, 5350 31st Ave. S.
November 12: Meet & Mingle: Midtown Business Collective
Second Wednesdays · 5pm Social Hour · 6pm Meeting WonderWorks, 5314 Gulfport Blvd. S. Join fellow business owners and neighbors for refreshments and networking. Everyone is welcome. Bring marketing materials to share and display at the MBC Visitors Center.
November 13 through 23: Gulfport Community Players
will present a comedy, Sex Please, We’re Sixty! at the Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S. www.GulfportCommunityPlayers.org
November 15: The First Annual Mayor’s Community Walk will be held Saturday, Nov. 15. Check-in starts at 8am at the Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S and the walk starts at 9am. DISCOVER GULFPORT TRAIL with a guided walk by Mayor Love. Don’t forget to wear your walking shoes. Water and snack stations will be set up. For more information, call 727.893.1118.
November 15: Fall Fest in the Garden at Gulf Orchids, 4pm to 8pm, at 5313 Gulfport Blvd. S. Local artists will be set up throughout the garden. Wander the paths and meet the makers.
November 15: City-Wide Yard Sale (rain date Nov. 16)
Go to www.mygulfport.us/gulfport-city-wide-yard-sale for a map.
November 22: HeARTful Market, a festive holiday shopping event,10am to 2pm, downtown on Beach Blvd. S, filled with live music, local performances, and one-of-a-kind gifts from Gulfport artists, businesses, and street vendors. The Gulfport Amalgamated Gecko Marching Band will also bring high-energy sounds and holiday cheer for all ages.
What’s On Your Mind? Meet the Councilor & Community Conversations
Councilmember Marlene Shaw is keeping the conversation going – still accessible, still listening, and still asking, “What’s On Your Mind?”
- Mondays, 2-3pm – Office hours at City Hall
- First Wednesdays, 2-3pm – WonderWorks/Midtown Collective on Gulfport Blvd.
- Second Tuesdays, 11am-1pm – SumitrA’s, on Beach Blvd.
- Third Friday, 6-7pm – Salty Pup Coffeehouse & Winebar on Tangerine Ave.
Calls, emails and coordinating times to meet are very welcome.
Gulfport Markets & Traditions
Find produce, crafts, art, local eats, and entertainment on Beach Blvd. S.
- Tuesday Fresh Market – Every Tuesday, 9am-2pm
- Gulfport Night Markets – First Friday & Third Saturday, 5-9pm
- Growers & Makers Market has started up again. It is held on the first Sunday of each month from 11am-3pm on 13th Ave. S at 1301 49th St. S
Live Music, Open Mics & Jams
Gulfport’s got rhythm! Here’s where to catch weekly open mic nights. See Gulfport Matters on Facebook for other music throughout the week:
- Mondays – North End Taphouse, 5:30-7:30pm
- Tuesdays – North End Taphouse, 7-10pm
- Wednesdays – The Wine House (bi-weekly), 6-9pm
- Thursdays – Gulfport Brewery, 6-9pm
- Fridays – Seabreeze Manor, 4-7pm
- 1st & 7th – Blueberry Patch Open Mic
- 11th – Blueberry Patch Open Jam
*Follow Gulfport Matters on Facebook and stay connected to the creativity, community, and spirit that make Gulfport shine.