Circus, Back-To-School Events, Tampa Home Show: FL Weekend Events

TAMPA BAY, FL — Looking for something fun to do this weekend in the Tampa Bay area? There’s something for every interest – circus performances, back-to-school events, poetry readings, an arts event for breast cancer survivors.

Loomis Bros. Circus

The circus returns to Robarts Arena in Sarasota Friday through Sunday

First Friday: Back to School

Lakeland’s First Friday event celebrates the start of the school year from 6 to 9 p.m. A Makers Market will be set up along N. Kentucky Avenue, while a classic car show is on display along Tennessee Avenue. There will also be food trucks, exhibitors and vendors, games and activities, entertainment, and more.

Poetry Today: Undeniable Storytelling

Hermitage fellows John Murillo and Nicole Sealey will share their works and their insights on poetry and writing Friday, 6:30 p.m., at the Hermitage Artist Retreat in Englewood.

A Sorting Hat Celebration

Bartow Con hosts A Sorting Hat Celebration Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Bartow Civic Center. The event includes music, a professor dance off, kids activities, vendors, food trucks, costume contest, magic show and more.

Tampa Home Show

This international trade show and exhibition on custom cabinets, kitchens and bathrooms, awnings and decks, ad more will feature elite contractors from all categories Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Tampa Convention Center.

Sister Warrior Art Project Retreat

Local women will use dance and other visual arts to explore and share their experiences with breast cancer, during a retreat hosted by University of South Florida faculty members Saturday at noon on the Sarasota-Manatee campus.

Old Fashion Southern Luncheon and Fashion Show

The New Port Richey Order of the Eastern Star hosts a luncheon and fashion show Saturday, noon to 3 p.m. Fashions will be provided by David’s Bridal of Spring Hill.

Back to School Backpack Giveaway

The Saturday Shoppes and Live Love St Pete are teaming up for a “Back to School” event on Saturday afternoon at Tropicana Field (Lot 4). 2,000 backpacks with school supplies will be given out to local kids from noon to 5 p.m. This is a free event that is open to the public.

Meet Gabby from “Gabby’s Dollhouse”

Calling all kitty enthusiasts who love magic and adventure! Laila Lockhart, the star of Gabby’s Dollhouse, is ready to jump inside Brandon Mall on Saturday at 1 p.m. for a meet-and-greet with fans.