Thanksgiving Weekend is Finally Here! Give Thanks to Your Community at These Local Events.

Hillsborough County

• 93.3 FLZ’s Jingle Ball - Get ready to jingle all the way this Sunday at 93.3 FLZ's Jingle Ball, where music magic meets holiday cheer! Taking place at Tampa's Amalie Arena, this star-studded event promises a lineup that will make your heart sing. With captivating performances by Niall Horan, Teddy Swims, Zara Larsson, and Doechii, you're in for an unforgettable night of live music. Let the melodies of these incredible artists sweep you off your feet as you get into the festive spirit. Don't miss your chance to celebrate the season in style with some of the hottest musical acts around at 93.3 FLZ's Jingle Ball!

• Garden Motorsports  - MONSTER TRUCKZ is renowned for its phenomenal monster truck shows, including the Extreme Tour, Mayhem Tour, Chaos Tour, and Mikey Mayhem. As one of the world's largest national touring monster truck extravaganzas, MONSTER TRUCKZ boasts a wealth of experience catering to diverse demographics. This entertainment powerhouse is making waves in the industry with an all-new, action-packed 90-minute experience that's bound to leave you exhilarated.

• Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village  - Get ready for a hometown holiday extravaganza! Tampa Bay's Festival of Lights & Santa's Village is back, illuminating the season from Thanksgiving Day to New Year's Eve. This year, the festival has expanded to feature over 1 million dazzling lights across a 2-mile drive. The familiar sights of the Pirates of Tampa at the 110-ft. animated tunnel entrance, Florida-themed alligators, and playful animals have been joined by an enchanting new "Under the Sea" section adorned with radiant blue lights and whimsical aquatic creatures. Santa's Village is a hub of delights with delectable treats, holiday-themed rides, a nightly winter market, and the charming Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village, complete with firepits for s'mores. Get ready for a visit with Santa, craft stations in Santa's workshop, Santa's Barnyard, camel rides, holiday movies, and weekend live entertainment – a world of family fun awaits. Keep an eye out for surprise appearances by the Grinch and Jack Frost as they stroll through Santa's Village.

• DalÍ & the Impressionists: Monet, Renoir, Degas & More - Discover the profound connection between Salvador Dalí and the Impressionist movement in the captivating exhibition "Dalí & the Impressionists: Monet, Renoir, Degas & More." In collaboration with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, this showcase presents an exceptional collection of 22 paintings by 18 renowned artists, including Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, and more. These Impressionist masterpieces, many never seen before in Florida, are thoughtfully juxtaposed with 18 of Dalí's earliest works, shedding light on his artistic evolution and enduring fascination with Impressionism. Delve into the surprising parallels between Impressionist and Surrealist approaches to portraying life experiences, bridging the 19th and 20th centuries. Dalí's connection to Impressionism extended to his homeland, Catalonia's Mediterranean coast, inspiring his exploration of its mesmerizing landscapes and the surreal. Step into the artistic process with the interactive experience "YOUR PORTRAIT," using AI technology to transform your selfie into a unique Impressionist artwork, further enhancing your immersive journey.

• Christmas Under the Moon at Harvestmoon - Experience the enchanting Christmas light display at HarvestMoon Fun Farm, where fun knows no age limit. This festive season, pay a visit to Santa, take a leisurely walk along Christmas Tree Lane, and interact with the friendly animals on the petting farm. Savor the delightful flavors of hot chocolate and kettle corn, among other treats. Gather the entire family to partake in a variety of activities and embrace the joy of farm fun. Create lasting memories that will be cherished for a lifetime in this heartwarming holiday setting.

Pinellas County

• Shopapalooza Festival 2023 - The eagerly anticipated Shopapalooza Festival is making its grand return! This exciting two-day community celebration, brought to you by LocalShops1, will be held at the stunning Vinoy Park, nestled along the scenic waterfront of St. Petersburg. Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 25th, and Sunday, November 26th, 2023, from 10 am to 5 pm. The best part? Admission is absolutely free, and there's no need for tickets! Register in advance, and you might even win fabulous shopping sprees and other enticing prizes. Shopapalooza boasts an impressive lineup of over 350 local makers and small businesses, creating a bustling marketplace filled with local flavors, sounds, and unique products. Savor delectable offerings from four outdoor food halls, enjoy live entertainment and engaging activities all weekend long, indulge in mouthwatering treats from food trucks, and discover a selection of beer and wine stations. This year, we're proud to support nonprofit partners Jump for Kids and St. Pete Youth Farm, with co-sponsorship from the City of St. Pete and tourism support from Visit St. Pete/Clearwater. This is an event you won't want to miss!

• 32nd Annual Thanksgiving Art & Craft Festival - For over three decades, the Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce, a non-profit organization, has been hosting an outdoor showcase that has become a beloved holiday tradition. This festive event takes place on Thanksgiving weekend, aligning with Small Business Saturday and Sunday, making it the ideal time to discover that perfect gift. With a diverse array of offerings, from fine art to handcrafted items and products from trusted independent businesses, you'll have no trouble finding unique presents. The festival encourages holiday shoppers to support over 150 small and local businesses, making it a fantastic opportunity for both locals and visitors to shop small for their gift-giving needs while avoiding the hustle and bustle of the mall. Located on Court Street, adjacent to Downtown's Main Street, you'll also have the chance to explore independently owned shops and restaurants.

• Beer Yoga - Every fourth Sunday, you're invited to join a revitalizing morning yoga session in the beer garden, guided by Crystal Kage. Crystal brings her expertise as a 200-hour Certified Yoga Teacher from CorePower Yoga, along with her NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Group Personal Trainer qualifications. After the class, participants can unwind with a complimentary beer and friendly company before the taproom opens at noon. This inclusive class welcomes individuals of all levels, whether you're a newcomer to yoga, an experienced practitioner, or simply seeking relaxation and beer. Don't forget to bring your own yoga mat, towel, water, sunscreen, and friends for a truly enjoyable experience.

• Enchant - St. Pete is set to host the return of Enchant Presented by Hallmark Channel at Tropicana Field, running from Friday, November 24, to Sunday, December 31, 2023. This remarkable holiday-themed extravaganza offers an enchanting experience for all ages. Immerse yourself in a dazzling light maze adorned with over 4 million twinkling lights, stand in awe of a majestic 100-foot-tall holiday tree, glide along a distinctive ice-skating trail, revel in live entertainment, and have memorable encounters with Santa. Explore a bustling holiday shopping marketplace brimming with crafts, gifts, and delectable culinary delights, including festive holiday beverages and cocktails.

Pasco County

• Small Business Saturday  - Experience the magic of Small Business Saturday in the enchanting embrace of Historic Downtown Dade City's Participating Merchants. Join us in celebrating this special occasion with a day of shopping in our one-of-a-kind shops, where a $25 purchase will bestow upon you a charming Christmas Ornament to treasure. And that's not all! Get ready for a dose of holiday cheer with Pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus from 4:00pm to 7:30pm, delightful Sleigh Rides running from 4:30pm to 7:30pm, delectable treats, generous giveaways, live music to set the festive mood, and, of course, a plethora of shopping opportunities with exclusive holiday specials. Don't miss out on this heartwarming day of merriment and support for our cherished small businesses.

• Saturday Evening Post-Thanksgiving PINK Sugar Cookie Decorating Class  - Boxer Mom Bakes invites you to embark on a delightful sugar cookie decorating journey! Whether you're a novice or a seasoned pro, this 1.5-hour class is designed to cater to all skill levels. We'll start with sugar cookie fundamentals, making it beginner-friendly. Dive into some piping practice with Royal Icing, explore the art of strategic sugar cookie decoration, and gain insights into the world of dough and icing. Fear not, as everything you need will be provided, including an enthusiastic in-person instructor; just bring your smile (and maybe an apron). This class is all about embracing the color PINK as we indulge in a 1.5-hour cookie decorating session, the perfect post-Thanksgiving treat! By the end of the class, you'll depart with a solid grasp of sugar cookie basics and a repertoire of cool decorating techniques.

• Alleycvt: Planet Supersonic Fall Tour 2023 - Discover the electrifying talent of ALLEYCVT, an emerging electronic music producer and DJ hailing from Northern Virginia. Her artistry is characterized by the seamless fusion of sultry pop vocals with electrifying bass drops, establishing her as a formidable presence in the music scene. Drawing inspiration from acclaimed artists like Zeds Dead, Subtronics, and Ganja White Night, ALLEYCVT's production and sound design promise to elicit enthusiastic bass reactions while captivating listeners with enchanting vocal melodies and infectious lyrics. As an exciting addition, ALLEYCVT is proud to announce her partnership with the nonprofit organization "One Tree Planted" for her highly anticipated 2023 Fall Tour.

Hernando County

• Farmers Market Spring Hill - Indulge in the ultimate shopping experience at our charming weekly market, boasting an impressive array of over 50 handpicked vendors. Explore the vibrant tapestry of our local community as you peruse stalls teeming with the freshest produce, succulent meats, and the finest seafood. Delight in the golden nectar of local honey, discover heirloom seeds and lush vegetable plants to cultivate your garden dreams, and find solace in the lovingly nurtured landscape and house plants. Satisfy your sweet tooth with delectable baked goods, marvel at exquisite woodworking creations, and uncover a treasure trove of other artisanal wonders that await your eager exploration. Join us at this bustling market where each visit is a delightful journey through a tapestry of local craftsmanship and bountiful offerings.

• Strawberry Picking  - Get ready for a berry sweet adventure at JG Ranch! Our farm is a haven for those seeking the freshest farm-to-table produce, and our strawberry picking experience is a true highlight. Bring the family and join us in our lush strawberry fields to pluck ripe, juicy berries straight from the vine. It's a fun-filled activity that offers the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and savor the flavors of sun-ripened strawberries. At JG Ranch, we're proud to be a family-operated farm, and we invite you to explore all we have to offer. Come visit us today and discover the joys of farm-fresh goodness.

• Country Christmas Market  - The holiday season is here, and we're thrilled to announce the Country Christmas Market, a festive day filled with all things local! Join us for a delightful opportunity to indulge in local culinary delights, enjoy beverages crafted right here, and explore the talents of over 30 artisans offering their homemade and handcrafted treasures, perfect for Christmas gifting. And guess who's dropping by? Santa himself! Capture those precious holiday moments with Santa from 12pm to 2pm. We've also got your entertainment covered with a fantastic live bluegrass band performing from 12pm to 3pm. For the little ones, there's a mini petting farm and fun crafts to keep them engaged. This event is a holiday must-attend, so mark your calendar!

• Festival of Trees - Celebrate the holiday season with us from November 15th to November 27th (excluding Thanksgiving Day) at the Brooksville Welcome Center (205 E Fort Dade Ave, Brooksville, FL 34601). Experience the festive charm of intricately adorned trees and wreaths generously donated by local businesses. These exquisite decorations will be available for public viewing daily from 11 AM to 5 PM. Following the exhibit, these holiday gems will be auctioned off, with the proceeds contributing to future downtown Brooksville art projects. Join us in spreading holiday cheer and supporting our community alongside Brooksville Main Street and our local business partners!

Sarasota/Manatee County

• Exit Music: Continuum - Experience the captivating world of artist Nathan Beard as he explores the concept of Exit Music as a symbol of transition through the threshold of liminal space. Beard delves into the intricate web of connections that underlie events on different scales, seeking a profound understanding of the relationships between matter, space, energy, and time. His work delves into questions of origin, the paradox of the infinitely inward, and the influence of memory on history, culture, and personal relationships. Through his layered Exit Music paintings, Beard blends Abstract Expressionism with shifting color fields, creating a visual journey that traverses cycles of color and temperature. Using meticulous strips of blue painter's tape, he constructs patterns that enhance the dimension and movement of serpentine forms within an expressive, abstract landscape. Beard's choice of colors carries metaphorical significance, and his art explores the interplay between chaos and order, reflecting on the human ability to shape Space-Time to our desires and needs.

• 3rd Annual “Fall Classic” Sports Card Show - Experience the excitement of the 3rd Annual "Fall Classic" Sports Card Show at Pennant Fever. Join us for free appraisals, complimentary parking, and the chance to win door prizes. Don't miss the opportunity to utilize JSA Autograph Authentication Services (available on Sat & Sun). Our reputable dealers will be on hand to buy and sell sports cards and memorabilia spanning from the 19th century to the present. Explore a wide range of collectibles, including items related to baseball, football, basketball, hockey, boxing, soccer, Pokemon, and comics. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, this event has something for everyone.

• Deck the Halls - Experience the magic of Christmas and Hanukkah in Sarasota like never before with a fresh take on the beloved holiday traditions. "Deck the Halls" brings new songs and sketches to the stage, preparing audiences to celebrate the season in true Florida style. Imagine palm trees adorned with festive decorations, swimming in the warm sea, building sand snowmen, and more. As an annual Sarasota holiday tradition, "Deck the Halls" invites families to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit and participate in this engaging and interactive family show that captures the essence of the holidays in sunny Sarasota.

Polk County

• Holidays at LegoLand - Get ready for the jolliest event of the year! Elevate your family vacation with LEGO® magic, visiting the Holiday Village Postal Service, dancing around the towering LEGO tree to holiday tunes, capturing "elfies" with beloved holiday LEGO Characters, and enjoying a kid-friendly New Year's celebration with LEGO brick fireworks. Immerse yourself in our seasonal FUNderland, gather around our colossal LEGO Christmas tree with a 360-degree light show, and meet LEGO Santa and friends for merry meet-n-greets. Enjoy Santa-approved holiday shows throughout the park, complemented by holly jolly themed food and drinks. It's an unforgettable holiday celebration blending LEGO magic, seasonal entertainment, and traditional treats.

• Pokemon Go at the Park  - Explore the beauty of Bonnet Springs Park in a unique way with Pokémon GO! This innovative blend of technology and the great outdoors offers an exciting adventure. While you can enjoy Pokémon GO at any time and place, we invite you to join us on Saturday, November 25th, from 2 to 5 PM at Bonnet Springs Park for a special "Catch 'Em All" event. During this time, you'll have a higher chance of encountering Pokémon in the park. As you embark on this augmented reality journey, remember to stay aware of your surroundings and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

• Cars + Coffee  - Rev up your engines and grab a cup of joe for a fantastic morning of cars and coffee! Join us, along with Autoform, on the final Saturday of every month, beginning at 9:00 AM, at The Joinery. Whether you're proud of your vehicle and want to showcase it or simply appreciate fine automobiles, this event is for you. All car enthusiasts are welcome to come together and celebrate their love for cars in a friendly and welcoming environment. It's the perfect opportunity to admire impressive rides and share your passion with fellow automotive aficionados.

Citrus County

• 17th Annual Arts, Crafts, & Blue Crab Festival  - The upcoming Ozello Arts, Crafts & Blue Crab Festival takes place on Saturday. Donations are made from the profits of these festivals to several local charities which are voted upon each year. In the past, we have donated funds to: The Sanctuary, Precious Paws, CCFAP, Veterans groups, Children’s Advocacy Center, Meals on Wheels, among others; and have bought turkeys for the SOS Food Bank. Each year we also adopt a family in need, and this is in addition to our Annual Education Scholarship Fund to support graduates with ties to Ozello to pursue college or trade school, and our Christmas Toys for Tots donations. There will be over 50 artists and crafters for the show, which begins at 9am and runs until 4pm. Our three local Ozello restaurants will be on-site to provide their various delicacies - including our BLUE CRABS! Backwater Fins, The Island Outpost, and Peck’s Old Port Cove. Come spend the day in Ozello’s “old Florida” and enjoy good food and get your holiday shopping started with local arts and crafts vendors!

• Rotary’s Iconic Christmas Tree Reveal - Get into the festive spirit with the Downtown Inverness Rotary Club as they host a joyous celebration centered around the lighting of a magnificent 30-foot Christmas tree in downtown Inverness! This event promises a delightful blend of fun activities, melodious music, and an abundance of holiday cheer. Join the community in marking the beginning of the holiday season as the Christmas tree lights up the night, creating a magical atmosphere that's sure to warm hearts and spread joy. It's a wonderful way to embrace the holiday spirit and come together with friends and neighbors for a memorable evening of merriment.

Lee County

• Whimsy & Wonder: Doug MacGregor  - Step into the enchanting world of "Whimsy & Wonder" with artist Doug MacGregor from November 3 to November 25. This captivating exhibition showcases Doug's imaginative talents as an artist, cartoonist, and storyteller. With his pen, pencil, and vibrant brushstrokes, Doug takes you on a journey through his creative realm, introducing you to whimsical wildlife from land, sea, and air. Prepare to be charmed as you witness flying pigs, octopuses, and sea cows, all brought to life with Doug's unique artistic vision. The exhibition opens on Thursday, November 3, with a lively reception from 5 to 8 pm, offering art enthusiasts and curious minds a chance to immerse themselves in the magic of Doug MacGregor's artistic universe.

• Holiday Nights Opening Night  - Celebrate the 48th annual Holiday Nights in style at the grand tree lighting ceremony on the Ford property! Join us as we count down to the moment when thousands of animated lights, choreographed to the enchanting sounds of holiday music, illuminate the Christmas tree. NBC-2's Dave Elias will lead the countdown, creating an electric atmosphere that culminates in a dazzling spectacle. Following the tree lighting, the American Sirens, a talented group of female vocalists, will grace us with their melodious tunes. Sponsored by Florida Power and Light, Bob Dean Supply, Sunbelt Rentals, and TriCircle Pavers, this year's theme, "Holidays on Wheels," promises to captivate with various wheel-themed decorations, paying homage to Henry Ford's legacy. From car wheels to wagon wheels, bicycle tires to ship steering wheels and train wheelsets, the Holiday Nights celebration is set to run nightly through December 31, with guided tradition tours at 6 and 7 p.m., excluding opening night, or the option for self-guided exploration at your leisure.

Charlotte County

• Punta Gorda Thanksgiving Weekend Sullivan Street Craft Fest - Celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving weekend by kicking off your holiday shopping at the upcoming craft show. This event offers a unique opportunity to meet and engage with some of the nation's most skilled crafters while strolling through the picturesque streets of Punta Gorda. Nestled alongside the serene banks of the Peace River and the sparkling Gulf of Mexico in Southwest Florida, Punta Gorda is renowned as the heartbeat of Charlotte County. This charming downtown location on Florida's West Coast promises a delightful shopping experience amidst its scenic beauty.

• Festival of Lights - Get ready to immerse yourself in the festive spirit as Fishermen's Village presents its Holiday Festival of Lights from November 19 to December 31, 2023. Throughout this holiday season, visitors can enjoy a dazzling spectacle of over one million lights and creatively themed decorations that adorn both the interior and exterior of Fishermen's Village. Whether you explore during the day or evening, this magical display promises to enchant visitors of all ages with its radiant and heartwarming holiday ambiance.