Community Corner
GET OUT: Weekend Events Preview September 1 - 4
Geckofest, USS Independence, First Friday Art Walk and more! Gulfport Patch has some ideas in order to enjoy a well-deserved weekend.
It’s Thursday, and the weekend’s just around the corner. If you’re still stumped on what to do, we’ve got some great ideas for both you or perhaps your family.
Where: The Naval warship USS Independence will be open for public tours for the Labor Day weekend in the Port of St. Petersburg.
Find out what's happening in Gulfportfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
When: Individuals and families can tour the ship Sunday from 8:30am to 3:30pm and Monday from 8:30am to 11:30am. But you have to get your free tickets in advance.
Get Tickets: Tickets are first come, first-served basis on Thursday and Friday from noon to 6 p.m. Pick them up at the Mahaffey Theater Box Office, 400 First St. S.
Find out what's happening in Gulfportfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Why Go: If you can get free tickets, you can board the 418-foot, high-tech Naval warship.
Price: Free
11th Annual Geckofest: "The Lizard of Oz"
Where: Downtown Gulfport on Gulfport Blvd.
When: Saturday, Sept. 3, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Parade at 6 p.m. and street dance at 8 p.m.
Why Go: There will be more than 200 vendors and performing artists and live music from noon to 10 p.m. There's a walking parade at 6pm. Come dressed in your the weird and wacky, and line up anywhere along the parade route or in front of the casino at 5:30pm. Adults and children can win prizes for best costumes, including Best Lizard of Oz, Best Decorated Umbrella, and Best Hat. Gulfport Patch will also have a booth at the event, so come by and say "hi".
Price: Free
Where: Gulfport Casino Ballroom, 5500 Shore Blvd. S.
When: Friday, Sept. 2, 7:30 p.m. - 1: 00 a.m.
Why Go: Doors open at 7:30 p.m., Lessons at 8 p.m., live music from the Venturas start at 9 p.m. Jack & Jill dance Contest with $100 cash prize.
Price: $11
Where: Downtown Gulfport on Beach Blvd.
When: Friday, Sept. 2, 6 - 10 p.m.
Why Go: Gulfport Art Walk takes place on the First Friday and Third Saturday of every month, year-round. Parking is always free and free trolley rides are available from off-site parking areas. Pet and family friendly! Experience a cool dining, shopping and cultural experience unlike any other.
Price: Free
Where: Gulfport Municipal Marina, Boca Ciega Bay
When: Friday, Sept. 2. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Why Go: The cruise provides sunset views of Gulfport and Boca Ciega Bay. Live music; cash-only bar.
Price: $14 in advance; $17 on cruise day
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