January is packed with ways to get out and enjoy Pinellas County, from art walks, markets, concerts, and beach cleanups to festivals celebrating food, crafts, dance, and culture. Highlights include citywide art events, outdoor markets, live music by the water, family-friendly festivals, and unique experiences like kite flying, medieval fun, and community celebrations. With recurring favorites and exciting new events, the new year offers something for every interest across the county.
RECURRING EVENTS
First Fridays • 10am-2pm, Creative Clay Outdoor Art Market, 1846 First Ave. S, St. Petersburg • 5-9pm, First Friday Art Walk, Downtown Gulfport • 6-9pm, Concert in front of Studio Movie Grill, Seminole City Center, 11201 Park Blvd. N, Seminole
Last Friday • 6-9pm, live music at the John’s Pass Bell Tower, John’s Pass Boardwalk and Shopping Village, 12902 Village Blvd., Madeira Beach
1st Saturday • 8am Beach Cleanup, Archibald Park,15100 Gulf Blvd. Mad. Beach.
2nd Saturday • 8:30am, Beach Cleanup. Municipal Pavilion, 11260 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island, 11185 Gulf Blvd. • 9am-2pm, Market on The Bluffs, 2747 Sunset Blvd, Belleair Bluffs. Farmers Market/craft event on the street in front of Belleair Bluffs City Hall. • The Market Marie,10am-3pm, Coachman Park, 300 Cleveland St., Clearwater • 5-9pm, St. Pete Artwalk. Artists and gallery owners from 40 studios and galleries in five arts districts show off their latest works. Take the trolley, drive or park and walk. stpeteartsalliance.org/artwalk
3rd Saturday • 10am-2pm, Crossroads Market, Crossroads Christian Church, 1645 Seminole Blvd., Largo • 10am-5pm, Creative Pinellas at Pinewood, 12211 Walsingham Road, Largo • 5-9pm, Indie Faire, Beach Blvd., Gulfport. Outdoor, socially distanced event in Gulfport features local art, handmade crafts, jewelry, and pottery to locally sourced botanicals.
4th Saturday • Pinellas Arts Walk 4-8pm, Pinellas Arts Village Walk, 5600-5800 Park Blvd. (north side), Pinellas Park. Pinellas Park Art Society, Donnelly COVE, Complete Sweet Shoppe, Pompei Factory, Studios @5663, Painting with a Twist, Bottles Pub, and Swartz Gallery.
4th Sunday • Lealman Farmers Market 10am-2pm, Lealman Exchange, 5175 45th St N, St. Petersburg
ONGOING
Through 4/19 – Alberto Giacometti & Salvador Dalí: Through and Beyond Surrealism
$12-$32/under 5 free, 10am-6pm, Dali Museum, 1 Dali Blvd., St. Pete. The exhibition features a rich selection of works by Alberto Giacometti, drawn from the collections of Fondation Giacometti. These are displayed alongside works by Salvador Dalí from The Dalí Museum’s collection. Together, they illuminate the surprising similarities in the artists’ visions, despite their distinct stylistic approaches. https://thedali.org/visit/buy-tickets/
Through 4/25 – I Will… Word + Image 2025-2026
Free, Morean Art Center, 719 Central Ave., St. Pete. Each year, local students are challenged to create works of art based on a particular theme, and to incorporate a written statement within the piece. This year’s theme I WILL… is the students’ “projection” of their future possibilities and imagination of what awaits them, what their potential roles could be in the real world, and how they might prepare to make a difference. The work is exhibited by grade level. Submissions by high school students were exhibited in November. The remaining schedule is:
• Through 1/17/26 – Middle School Exhibition
• 1/24-3/7 – Elementary School Exhibition (A-M)
• 3/14-4/25 – Elementary School Exhibition (N-W)
UPCOMING
1/4-10 – MIXed: Across St. Pete
Free, select sites around St. Pete. This week-long city-wide celebration of movement, community, and place performed by projectALCHEMY’s company dance artists will create new site-responsive works in seven neighborhoods across St. Petersburg: Roser Park, Historic Kenwood, Maximo Park, Downtown, Edgemoor, Historic Old Northeast, and The Deuces Corridor. Intentionally ephemeral, they will emerge at various moments throughout the day. They are designed to appear organically — inviting residents to encounter dance unexpectedly in the places where they live, walk, and gather, expanding the idea of where dance can live and makes the art form accessible to everyone in their everyday environment. The project concludes with a ticketed closing event at The Studio@620, 620 First Ave. S, St. Pete ($15 student; $20 general, 7:30pm.)
1/10-11 – Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks Craft Festival
Free admission, 10am-7pm Sat/10am-5pm Sun, Sponge Docks, Dodecanese Boulevard. Stroll the historic Sponge Docks and explore a vibrant open-air marketplace filled with handcrafted art, jewelry, home décor, fine crafts, and unique gifts made by talented artisans from across the region. Dine at Tarpon’s famous waterfront restaurants and experience one of Florida’s most beloved cultural destinations.
1/10 – Taste of the New Year: Foodie Fest
Free, noon-6pm, 4900 Tangerine Ave. S, Gulfport, 4899 18th Ave S, St Pete. Start the New Year tasting something NEW! Whether you’re craving tacos, BBQ, seafood, desserts, or international flavors — this event has got it ALL. The best food vendors from across Florida – food trucks and local restaurants. A family-friendly atmosphere with giveaways and prizes. Live music all day long. Hosted by Saturday Shopped.
1/10-3/7 – 2025 Winter Wood Symposium Exhibition
Free, Morean Center for Clay, 420 22nd St. S, St. Pete. Forty potters from around Florida and beyond gathered in December around four kilns and countless logs to practice the ancient of wood firing. The results can be seen in this showcase with a variety of artistic styles and methods of firing.
1/13 – HotMess St. Pete: Pickleball Open Play
$10, 6-9pm, SkyBeach Resort, 6800 Sunshine Skyway Lane S, St. Pete. Come play LGBTQ+ pickleball in St Pete!. Ten dollars lets you play for the night; free if registered for the fall season. To check in early, click the link: https://www.hotmesssports.com/stpetersburgsubs
1/14 – Wordier’s Blah, Blah, Blah! Open Mic
$5, 7-8:30pm, The Studio at 620, 620 First Ave. S, St Pete. Bring your finest prose or a true story to share. Everyone gets 7 minutes on the stage to present their work. Questions? Email WordierThanThou@gmail.com.
1/14 – Renee Fleming: Voice of Nature – The Anthropocene
$60.80 and up, 7:30pm , Straz Center, 1010 N Macinnes Pl, Tampa. Renée Fleming has performed in the world’s finest opera houses as well as at the Super Bowl, Buckingham Palace and the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. This performance features music ranging from classical to contemporary; includes a National Geographic-produced film spotlighting the beauty of the natural world. https://www.strazcenter.org/
1/15–1/18 — St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show
10 am–6 pm (Sun until 4 pm), Duke Energy Center for the Arts–Mahaffey Theater Yacht Basin & Albert Whitted Park, St. Petersburg. The largest boat show on the Gulf Coast returns with an impressive lineup of powerboats and sailboats displayed both in-water and on-land, plus a 40,000 sq ft tent showcasing marine gear, accessories, and equipment. Guests can enjoy educational seminars, kids fishing clinics, on-water training courses, and more. A great event for boating enthusiasts, families, and visitors alike. $24. https://www.stpeteboatshow.com/
1/16-18 – Treasure Island Kite Festival
Free admission, 10am, 10700 Gulf Blvd, Treasure Island. Giant kites will fill the sky with color, with free demonstrations and lessons. Be awed by the sport kike competition with kite ballet routines. Sign up for the sport kite competition at https://tinyurl.com/yvf8cz43
1/17 – Tiny Wildlife Experience
Free, 9:30-11am, Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Dr. NE, St. Pete. Wildlife abounds at the Weedon Island Preserve, especially the tiny kind, like butterflies, bees, crabs and other invertebrates. Join naturalist Liz Childress to learn how to see Weedon’s little creatures and discover the hidden beauty of the Preserve. The total walk length will be variable, but no more than a mile or so. This tour is for adults and youth ages 10+. Youth must be supervised by an adult. Save your spot at https://tinyurl.com/mr3d3tnu
1/17–1/18 — Spirit Fest USA (St. Petersburg)
10 am–6 pm Saturday; 10 am–5:30 pm Sunday, at the St. Petersburg Coliseum. Spirit Fest USA returns with a vibrant metaphysical, holistic, and crystal expo featuring roughly 75 booths of vendors, practitioners, speakers, intuitive readers, energy healing tools, aura photography, and wellness goods. Explore holistic health, spiritual growth, and community connection with free demonstrations and workshops included with daily admission. Great for anyone curious about natural healing, mindful living, and metaphysical culture in a welcoming festival setting. https://www.spiritfestusa.com/
1/18 – Fourth Annual Black Art Gala
$42/$66 VIP, 8-10pm, Ferguson Hall, Straz Center, 1010 N Macinnes Pl, Tampa. The evening honors artist and community leaders whose contributions have shaped the cultural landscape locally and beyond. It features Emcee EJ Greg from 101.5 The Vibe, cash bars, live music performances and visual artists showcasing their exceptional talent. https://tinyurl.com/2r57xejk
1/22–1/25 — Dunedin International Film Festival
Various times and venues around Dunedin. The 8th annual celebration of cinema returns with inspiring independent and international films, bringing filmmakers, storytellers, and movie lovers together for four days of screenings, cultural exchange, and creative conversation. Expect a diverse lineup of thought-provoking features and shorts that showcase global voices and local talent alike. Whether you’re a film enthusiast or community supporter, DIFF offers a unique arts experience in the heart of Dunedin’s vibrant cultural scene. https://dunedinfilmfestival.org/
1/23 — The Great Plate Fundraiser Dinner (Morean Center for Clay)
6 pm–8 pm, Morean Center for Clay, 420 22nd St. S, St. Petersburg. Enjoy an art-filled evening of pottery, presentations, and a delicious dinner while supporting creative makers. Each attendee receives a unique ceramic plate crafted by a Morean artist in residence and has the chance to meet the artists throughout the night. The event also features raffles and a silent auction of original artworks, with proceeds helping send resident artists to the annual ceramics conference, NCECA. Space is limited—reserve your plate soon! $75. https://moreanartscenter.org/classes/2025-air-fundraiser/
1/24-25 – Fifth Annual Taco Fest
Free admission, 10am-7pm Sat; 10am-5pm Sun, England Brothers Park, 5010 Dave McKay Way, Pinellas Park. An exciting weekend filled with an assortment of tacos, delicious indulgences, tasty competitions, and lively music.
1/24-2/1 – Pinellas Medieval Fair
$18/$22 at gate, DK Farms & Gardens, 1750 Lake Ave. SE, Largo. Step into a living fairytale as DK Farms transforms into a realm of magic, merriment, and medieval wonder! Enjoy non-stop family fun featuring thrilling entertainment, delicious food and drink, unique artisan shops, and an unforgettable fantasy experience. Take a leisurely stroll through the farm and meet the many animals who call it home. https://tinyurl.com/498kb8j7
1/25 – Plantapalooza
Free with admission, 12-4pm, Sunken Gardens, 1825 Fourth St. N, St. Pete. This fourth annual Plantapalooza is dedicated to Florida native plants. It seeks to connect the wildlife populations in our largest parks with backyard native gardens. Take home free native seedlings (while supplies last!). Browse unique native plants and more for sale by Tampa Bay area vendors. Learn from local organizations who are working hard to protect Florida’s plants and pollinators. Attend themed lectures by native plant experts.
1/30 – Fresh Start Market: Pets Night Out
Free, 6-9pm, 418 Cleveland St, downtown Clearwater. Bring your pup, your cat, or any pet that’s up for an adventure! This is their night to shine: pet-friendly vendors with toys, treats, and accessories. DJ by LC3 Entertainment. Dress your pet(s) for the costume contest and he/she/whatever could win Best Dressed Pet, Cutest Pet, and more! For the humans, there will be food from local restaurants, plus giveaways and prizes. Free parking across from Coachman Park.
1/31 Gasparilla Pirate Fest
Free. Gasparilla is Tampa’s signature event, celebrated annually since 1904 and hosted by Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla. Each year, a merry band of pirates invades the city with a fleet of more than 500 vessels, culminating in a celebratory parade down Tampa’s famed Bayshore Boulevard with 68 “Krewes” and 120 floats with more than 300,000 people cheering them. The three-weekend festival begins 1/24 with the Children’s Parade and concludes 3/1 with a sendoff as the pirate ship Jose Gasparilla II sails out of Tampa. More information at https://gasparillapiratefest.com
2/5–2/16 — Florida State Fair
11 am–9 pm daily, Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. Hwy 301 N, Tampa. The annual Florida State Fair returns for 12 days of family fun, thrilling rides, over-the-top fair food, live entertainment, agricultural and livestock exhibits, hands-on activities, and more. This long-running celebration of Florida’s heritage and community spirit draws visitors from across the state for midway adventures, unique exhibits, and memorable experiences for all ages. Advance tickets and parking options are available now — fun awaits under the Florida sun! https://floridastatefair.com/
2/6 – Ninth Annual Fit City 5K & 1-Mile Walk
Fees vary, 5-8pm, Vinoy Park, downtown St. Pete. Lace up your sneakers, grab your glow gear, and get ready to move, shine, and celebrate community health under the stars! The 5K race registration includes a free T-shirt, race bib, medal, and glow kit. T-shirt is guaranteed for registration by Jan. 5. The 1-mile walk registration includes a race bib, medal, and glow kit. Register at healthystpetefl.com/fitcity/
• Until Feb. 5: $30 for the 5K and $15 for the 1 Mile
• Feb. 6: $35 for the 5K and $20 for the 1 Mile. Day-of registration is based on availability.
2/7 – 2026 St. Petersburg Science Festival
Free, 10am-4pm, University of South Florida St. Petersburg and Poynter Park along the waterfront. This is an annual regional celebration where families and the public can explore the wonders of hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). It’s held annually in conjunction with MarineQuest, the open house of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. The two events happen side-by-side and attendees can walk from one to the other.
2/7 – Tampa Bay Whiskey Riot 2026
$90.40-$134.07, 3-7pm, Coliseum, 535 Fourth Ave N, St Pete. The Whiskey Riot is for the Whiskey Lover, the Whiskey Curious, the Whiskey Enthusiast, the Whiskey Aficionado, and the Whiskey Rookie. The festival offers samplings of hundreds of whiskeys, seminars and conversations with whiskey lovers, distillers, brand founders and more to arm you with the tools you need to become a whiskey expert. A 21+ event. Tickets: http://bit.ly/49ixdR0
2/7–2/8 — St. Petersburg Fine Art Festival
10 am–5 pm both days, South Straub Park, Bayshore Drive NE, St. Petersburg. The St. Pete Fine Art Festival returns to showcase hundreds of exceptional artists working in a wide range of media, including painting, photography, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, and more. Festivalgoers can meet the artists, discover unique original works, enjoy live music, and explore vibrant local food vendors while taking in beautiful waterfront views. This free, juried event is a highlight of the Gulf Coast’s cultural calendar and perfect for art lovers of all ages. https://www.paragonfestivals.com/festival/st-petersburg-fine-art-festival/
2/8 – Road House Nation presents: 2026 Super Bowl Party
Prices vary, 4pm, OCC Road House and Museum, 10575 49th St. N, Clearwater. Enjoy a guaranteed seat in front of the largest LED TV (30 feet) in the area and hear the game in full stereo sound! Plus, an all-you-can-eat buffet and great specialty drinks! No age restrictions. Tickets must be purchased for a seat. Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/yzrkevrt
2/8 — St. Petersburg Distance Classic
Races start at 6am. North Shore Park, 901 N Shore Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. Join the St. Petersburg Distance Classic, a scenic February race on Florida’s west coast overlooking Tampa Bay. With a USATF-certified Marathon (BQ), Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K, plus a Virtual option, the St. Pete Distance Classic offers a distance for every level of runner and walker. https://stpetersburgdistanceclassic.com/
2/14 – Localtopia
Free admission, 10am-6pm, Williams Park, 330 Second Ave. N, St. Pete. Localtopia is St. Pete’s largest “Community Celebration of All Things Local,” showcasing more than 300 of our city’s favorite independent businesses and community organizations. It features art and handcrafted goods, clothing and accessories, home décor, jewelry, and more, as well as family and wellness villages, and plenty to eat and drink at the Food Truck Rally Alley. No pets, please!
2/14 – 2026 Knight Parade by The Krewe of Sant’ Yago
Free, 7pm, Seventh Ave., Ybor City. A Tampa tradition for more than five decades, the nighttime spectacle celebrates the city’s Latin heritage, civic pride, and spirited sense of community. Known for its dazzling lights, vibrant costumes, and elaborately decorated floats, the Knight Parade remains one of the largest illuminated parades in the Southeast and a signature event on Tampa Bay’s social calendar. Arrive early for the best spots!
ON THE HORIZO
2/21 – Cupid’s Undie Run, St. Pete
2/27-3/8 – My Fair Lady, presented by Eight O’Clock Theatre, Central Park Performing Arts Center, Largo
3/10 – Confronting Distortion: Safeguarding Holocaust Truth in 2026, The Florida Holocaust Museum
3/15 – Listening Room Festival, Palladium
3/27 – Opening night of Into the Woods, by American Stage, at Demens Landing.
4/5 – Dunedin Highland Games and Festival
4/25-26 – Green Thumb Festival, Walter Fuller Park, St. Pete
5/9-10 – Next Generation Ballet’s Coppelia, Straz Center, Tampa