Top 5 Weekend Events July 9, 2026

#1 Gulfport’s Summer One-Act Festival

Back for another season, Gulfport’s Summer One-Act Play Festival brings 10 original short plays to the stage July 9–19 at the Catherine Hickman Theater. Expect a lively mix of comedy and drama, all selected from hundreds of submissions. Performances run Thursday–Saturday at 8pm, with weekend matinees at 2pm—and audiences get to vote for their favorites after the show. Tickets at gulfportcommunityplayers.org.

#2 American Stage Cabaret

One of the hottest tickets of the summer kicks off this Saturday, July 11th with American Stage’s Summer Cabaret Series, an intimate run of three Saturday night performances at 7pm. Opening night, Beach Please!, sets the tone with yacht rock & pop hits from The Beach Boys, ABBA, Hall & Oates, and more. The series continues July 18th with Black Girl Magic, celebrating powerhouse Broadway voices, and wraps July 25 with Sammy & Dino, a tribute to Sammy Davis Jr. and Dean Martin. $35+ fees per show.

Learn more at https://www.americanstage.org/summer-cabaret

#3 Longo’s Legacy Weekend

Rays fans won’t want to miss this two-day celebration honoring franchise legend Evan Longoria, taking over Tropicana Field and Ferg’s this weekend, July 11–12. Saturday’s game (4pm) features his Rays Hall of Fame induction, followed by the retirement of his iconic No. 3 jersey during Sunday’s game (1pm). The party continues across the street at Ferg’s with pre- and postgame crowds and a live concert from Tantric, performing “Down and Out,” Longo’s unforgettable walk-up song that became synonymous with him during his Rays career. A must for TB Rays baseball fans.

Learn more at https://www.paradisenewsfl.com/longos-legacy-weekend/.

#4 Sponge Docks Craft Fest

Plan a stroll through one of the area’s most unique waterfront spots during the Sponge Docks Craft Festival, this weekend, July 11–12 along Dodecanese Blvd. Browse handmade jewelry, art, pottery, home décor, and specialty foods while supporting local and visiting artisans. Free, family- and pet-friendly—and a perfect excuse to shop, wander, and soak in the charm of Tarpon Springs.

Learn more at https://www.paradisenewsfl.com/sponge-docks-craft-fest-july-2026/

#5 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/.

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