Top 5 Weekend Events July 17-19th

#1 PAVA Cool Art Show

A St. Pete summer tradition returns this Saturday & Sunday, July 18–19th at The Coliseum, bringing together a wide range of original work from local and visiting artists. The PAVA Cool Art Show features everything from painting and photography to ceramics, glass, jewelry, and sculpture—all in one place. What makes it special: every purchase directly supports the artists, with 100% of sales going to the creators. Free to attend, Saturday 10am–5pm and Sunday 10am–4pm.

Learn more at https://pava-artists.org/cool-art-show.

#2 Tampa Bay Ice Cream Fest

Celebrate National Ice Cream Day this Sunday, July 19th, the best way possible—on the St. Pete Pier with a day of frozen treats from some of the top dessert makers across Tampa Bay. Sample your way through tons of flavors, discover new favorites, and help vote for the People’s Choice Award. With categories like Best Hard Ice Cream, Best Soft Serve, and Best Non-Dairy, plus the coveted “Best Overall,” there’s plenty at stake—and plenty to taste. Free to attend and held at Family Park for a breezy, shaded waterfront experience.

Learn more at https://www.tampabayicecreamfest.com/.

#3 American Stage Cabaret

American Stage’s Summer Cabaret Series continues this Saturday, July 18th with Black Girl Magic, a powerful celebration of women of color who have broken barriers on Broadway. Featuring iconic songs from Wicked, The Little Mermaid, and more, this dynamic performance blends talent, storytelling, and show-stopping vocals. $38pp.

Get tickets at https://www.americanstage.org/shows/summer-cabaret-black-girl-magic.

#4 Al Downing Honors Concert

Celebrate the life and lasting impact of jazz icon Alvin Joseph Downing at the 2026 Al Downing Honors this Sunday, July 19th. This special event pays tribute to those who have advanced the appreciation of jazz in Tampa Bay, featuring a performance by acclaimed vocalist Allison Nash and hosted by Dr. Mendee Ligon. Recognized as Al Downing Day in St. Petersburg, July 19th honors a true legend—Tuskegee Airman, educator, and Florida Artist Hall of Fame inductee—whose influence continues to shape the region’s cultural landscape.

Get tickets at https://mypalladium.org/events/al-downing-honors-ft-allison-nash-hosted-by-erica-sutherlin/.

#5 Gulfport Night Market

Looking for an easy, enjoyable night out? The Gulfport Night Market returns this Saturday from 5–9pm in downtown Gulfport, offering a relaxed, waterfront evening filled with local flavor. Hosted by the Gulfport Merchants Chamber, the market features a mix of artists, makers, and small businesses selling everything from handmade goods and jewelry to artisan foods and pet products. Even better, it’s not a one-time thing—the market takes place year-round on the 1st Friday & 3rd Saturday of each month, making it easy to plan a future visit.

Learn more at https://www.tampabaymarkets.com/gulfport-night-market.

Leave a Comment

Discover more from Paradise News Magazine

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading