#1 GeckoFest Kickoff Weekend
Gulfport’s quirky Gecko season begins with two can’t-miss events. On Friday (6–8pm), the 11th Annual Gecko Art Show Opening at the Catherine Hickman Theater kicks things off with original works from local artists, plus bites, drinks, and plenty of creative flair. The exhibit remains on view through August 27. Then on Saturday, the Gecko Crawl (4–9pm) brings a lively bar crawl and poker run through Gulfport favorites, complete with drinks, prizes, and an after-party at Hurricane Eddie’s. Tickets start at $10. Learn more at https://visitgulfportflorida.com/events/.
#2 2nd Saturday Art Walk
Explore St. Pete’s thriving arts districts every second Saturday of the month as galleries & studios stay open late (5-9pm) for St. Pete’s Second Saturday Art Walk. For some venues, this is the ONLY time the public can visit. Learn how to catch a Trolley at stpeteartsalliance.org/artwalk/.
#3 Sunlit Waters Expo
If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend outing, head to South Straub Park for the St. Pete Sunlit Waters Art Festival Expo. This waterfront art festival brings together talented local and national artists showcasing original paintings, handmade creations, and unique works of art. It’s a great chance to stroll the park, meet artists, and enjoy a beautiful weekend by the bay. Free, Friday–Sunday, 8am–6pm.
Learn more at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-st-pete-sunlit-waters-art-festival-expo-tickets-1992913316377.
#4 American Stage Flea Market
Step behind the scenes at American Stage as it transforms into a treasure-filled flea market packed with costumes, props, and unique pieces from past productions. It’s a one-of-a-kind chance to take home a piece of local theater history. Shop early at the First Dibs Sale on Friday (3–8pm), or browse the full sale Saturday from 9am–4pm. Come curious- you never know what treasure you’ll find.
Learn more at https://www.americanstage.org/flea-market
#5 Celebrate Elvis at SPMOH
Celebrate 70 years since Elvis Presley’s first St. Petersburg performance with an evening of music history at the St. Pete Museum of History this Friday, August 7th 6pm. Author & historian Bob Kealing shares the story of Elvis’s rise in Florida, including his legendary 1956 show in downtown St. Petersburg. Tickets $15.