By Marlene Shaw
Community and Success Intertwined
In a town known for its eccentric charm and coastal resilience, the Gecko Ball and GeckoFest have blossomed into more than just annual events – they’ve become an icon of Gulfport. What began as a quirky celebration of whimsy 25 years ago, has grown into a beloved tradition that joins the community together with laughter, color, and connection. After seasons of storms and uncertainty, this year’s festivities felt like a collective exhale – a joyful reclaiming of the streets, the spirit, and each other. From sequined gecko costumes to spontaneous dance circles under the sun, Gulfport didn’t just throw a party – it was proof of spirits rising together.
After the hurricanes, nearly all downtown businesses have reopened, with exciting new ones joining soon. There’s still work ahead, but our commitment is unwavering. Gulfport thrives on its small-town spirit – where neighbors smile on the sidewalk, friendships spark at local venues, and community events bring us together.
As we rebuild, we’re mindful of protecting our infrastructure, preserving our charm, and living wisely with our environment. We value strong property values and a thriving local economy, but above all, we cherish the character that makes Gulfport feel like home. Some change may come, but our sense of community is what we hold onto – and what guides us forward.
Gulfport’s got soul, sunshine, and a whole lot of character. Dive into our latest happenings and discover what makes this town so special.
Community Updates
- Let It Be Ice Cream has reopened
- Neptune’s has reopened
- Evening hours and a dinner menus have been added at Heavenly Donuts, Sweets and Eats
- The Salty Pup Coffeehouse and Bakeshop has added After Hours on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays along with wine, appetizer platters, and desserts
- GulfPerks is progressing with restoration
- Fuel pumps in the marina are back in operation
- The Pearl is back open Oct. 1. They were closed temporarily in September. Check out their special early menu!
- The Coast Guard Auxiliary has relocated to the marina building
- Expected in December: Mademoiselle Paris at the Peninsula that will offer French cuisine and a bakery
- The Drunken Taco has closed and The Moon Under Water, currently on Beach Drive in downtown St. Petersburg, is going to renovate and open here in Gulfport!
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
- An Adopt-A-Drain program is being developed
- Stormwater system televising has been contracted for specified areas
- A substantial amount of sand was lost in a recent storm. The city is continuing to work on permitting.
Upcoming Events in Gulfport
Happy Hour Book Launch
Wednesday, Oct. 1, 5–7pm WonderWorks, 5314 Gulfport Blvd S Celebrate the launch of Mermaid Musings: Diving in the Margins by Marta Miranda-Straub. Enjoy a reading, lively discussion, wine, cheese, and non-alcoholic beverages. Adults only.
Meet & Mingle: Midtown Business Collective
Second Wednesdays · 5pm Social Hour · 6pm Meeting WonderWorks, 5314 Gulfport Blvd. S. Join fellow business owners for refreshments and networking. Bring marketing materials for display at the MBC Visitors Center.
Health & Wellness Expo
Saturday, Oct. 11 · 10am–2pm Maria Center, 1500 58th St. S. Free health screenings, wellness demos, and resources to support a healthier lifestyle. More info: gulfportseniorfoundation.org
A Night in Italy
Saturday, Oct. 25 · 6pm Maria Center, 1500 58th St. S. Enjoy a four-course Italian dinner, live music, and a cash bar (first drink free). Proceeds benefit the Gulfport Senior Center Foundation. Details: gulfportseniorfoundation.org
Gulfport Food Forest Fall Fest
Saturday, Oct. 4 · 11am–7pm Clymer Park, Beach Blvd. S. Celebrate the season with local vendors, kids’ activities, garden rummage and plant sales, community art, nature walks, and a pie contest. Contact: gulfportfoodforest@gmail.com
Gulfport Welcome
Friday, Oct. 10 · 6:30pm Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S. A warm introduction to Gulfport for both new and longtime neighbors.
Cast & Crew Call + Film Screening
Saturday, Oct. 11 · 2-6pm (Screening at 6:30pm) WonderWorks, 5314 Gulfport Blvd. S. Join the Coley Film + Jebus team for casting and crew opportunities. Screening admission: $10
DRV Gallery Season 4 Kickoff
Thursday, Oct. 3 · 5:30–8:30pm DRV Gallery, 5401 Gulfport Blvd. S. Featuring metalwork by Eric Folsom and live music by Jim Gilmour.
Gulfport Community Players Annual Meeting
Thursday, Oct. 17 · 7pm Back Door Theater, 1619 49th St. S. All are welcome to attend and learn more about the Players’ upcoming season.
Gulfport Art in the Yard
Friday, Nov. 1 (Rain date: Saturday, Nov. 2) Mark your calendar for this beloved community art event.
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 on Tangerine
Calls, emails and coordinating times to meet are very welcome.
Gulfport Markets & Traditions Tuesday Fresh Market – Every Tuesday, 9am-2pm Gulfport Night Markets – First Friday and Third Saturday, 5-9pmFind produce, crafts, local eats, and entertainment on Beach Blvd.
Live Music, Open Mics & JamsGulfport’s got rhythm! Here’s where to catch weekly live music and open mic nights: 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
*Stay in the loop with Gulfport Matters on Facebook. Let’s keep celebrating what makes Gulfport shine: creativity, community, and connection.