These exceptional objects range from refined 18th century English silver by Hester Bateman to dramatic deco-era silvery by Georg Jensen. Featured is one of the Museum's masterworks: Triton's Shell bowl by John S. Hunt and Joseph Taylor, a massive parcel-gilt silver piece honoring Queen Victoria. For more information, call 727-896-2667.

For the very first time, more than 250 superlative objects from The State Russian Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia will travel to the United States. Artifacts span more than 800 years of Russian history and focus on themes such as religious culture and the life of the Czars. For more information, call 727-822-3693.

The museum's centenary exhibition will consist of a retrospective of the permanent collection. More than 100 oils, watercolors and drawings outlining Dali's career will be on display. The exhibit features the multifaceted aspects of the artist's work, showcasing the extensive and varied material the museum owns in a variety of media. For more information, call 727-823-3767.

The Arts Center will host ongoing demonstrations of the art and science of glass blowing. Visitors will watch as glass artists play with fire to melt silicon, color it and blow the molten glass into goblets, vases, pitchers and other objects. Visitors will also get a chance to try their hand in several workshops at the glass studio. School children will take part in the creative process by helping the artists design pieces while at the same time learning about the chemistry of glass. This project is being produced in collaboration with the Museum of Fine Arts, which is exhibiting Chihuly Across Florida: Masterworks in Glass. Dale Chihuly's art is collected and admired throughout the world. Transportation between The Arts Center and the Museum of Fine Arts will be available via trolley service during posted hours of operation. For more information, call 727-822-7872.

This exhibit features the work of Dale Chihuly, a world famous glass artisan. Chihuly and his studio assistants have created these spectacular, large-scale glass sculptures specifically for St. Petersburg's Museum of Fine Arts. The works will be placed throughout the galleries in the city and respond to the architectural features of the Museum's neo-Palladian-style building, as well as its interior space. Some of his best known series will be represented: the Seaforms, Persians, Baskets, Macchia, and Venetians. Chihuly is one of the leading glass art pioneers. On display Jan. 18 to May 23, 2004. For more information, call 727-896-2667.

This exhibit consists of pastel images by Vivian Bower that define her exploration of the Rwandan genocide. This exhibit is presented in commemoration of the 10th Anniversary of the Rwandan Genocide. For more information, call 727-820-0100.

Weedon Island Preserve offers ongoing recreational opportunities. The preserve has canoe and kayak trails, 4.54 miles of hiking trails, and a variety of estuary and terrestial habitats for avid birders. The park is open to the public from dusk till dawn seven days a week. For more information, call 727-453-6500.

Jean-Claude Rigaud, of Haitian decent, received his BFA from the National University of Mexico in Mexico City, and undertook further studies at the Teachers College at Columbia University, and at the University of Miami. His work, in the grand tradition of encapsulating space with line and form, is held in numerous public and private collections. Working primarily in stainless steel, Rigaud’s sculptures define a new space and command the viewer’s response. For more information, call 727-518-6833.

Major League Baseball's Tampa Bay Devil Rays battle teams like the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox and Baltimore Orioles at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg. Spring Training starts in March. Tickets are available for as low as $4. For more information, call 1-888-FAN-RAYS (326-7297) or 727-825-3250.

This exhibit by Alice Lok Cahana, a child survivor of the Holocaust, examines sculptures and paintings that detail the survival of the human spirit. For more information, call 727-820-0100.

The American Stage, St. Peterburg's professional theater, offers a live production of a William Shakespeare work in a beautiful outdoor setting. This year's production is a performance of the comedy, Much Ado About Nothing with a surreal, spicy Latin flavor. Celebrating its 19th season, performances run Wednesday through Sunday on the waterfront at Demens Landing in downtown. Blanket seats are $7 on Wed., Thurs. and Sunday nights and $10 on Friday and Saturday nights. For Getaway packages in cooperation with The St. Petersburg Bed & Breakfast Association and The Salvador Dali Museum, go to www.spaabbi.com. For more information, call 727-823-7529.

This exhibition consists of paintings and textile works by artist Judith Weinshall Liberman. Drawn from works from the Museum’s permanent collection, the show includes wall hangings and works on canvas from the artist’s Holocaust Paintings, Holocaust Wall Hangings, Skulls Series and Genocide Series. Her work focuses on the present state of mankind as well as the relentlessness and enormity of history’s darkest period. For more information, call 727-820-0100.

The Dali Museum will stay open for 24 hours and will host films, events and admission specials with a 3-D twist. For more information, call 727-823-3767.

Children ten years and older can learn this time honored craft in this class, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Daniel McMullen Home at Heritage Village. This is one in a set of 4 classes introducing a variety of embroidery techniques for skill levels from beginner to the more experienced. Each session offers a small project, which can be completed at the Village or later at home. Materials and written instructions are provided for each project, but the child should bring small scissors. The fee for each class is $15. To pre-register, or for more information, call 727-582-2426.

The WALK FOR LIFE is a fun-filled celebration of life benefiting the Pregnancy Center of Pinellas County. Your Steps Saves Lives! The WALK is a short 2-mile fun family stroll at 3 beautiful locations: Largo, Clearwater or St. Petersburg. Simply turn in your pledge forms on WALK day OR mail them to us, and we will send your sponsors a pledge reminder. Pick a prize level and go for it! Then, challenge yourself to go to the next level. Remember, the more prizes you earn, the more lives you save! For more information call (727) 545-8100 x77.

This retrospective exhibition documents the career of Arline Erdrich, an artist who lives and works in Florida. This exhibition documents the evolution a life pursuing spiritual enlightenment and responding to times of triumph and tragedy. Included in the exhibition are early works relating to self-portraiture and identity, to the abstracted accrilage landscapes influenced by America’s southwest, through the eastern philosophy influence Tau/Tao works, and the powerful Chaos series, works that metaphorically relate to natural and personal crises. For more information, call 727-518-6833.

Kids 12 and under (accompanied by an adult) are invited to grab their favorite fishing pole and spend a day full of fishing and fun at the Pier Aquarium. The first 250 kids will receive an initial supply of bait, a goodie bag, t-shirt and free lunch. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m., fishing is from 9 - 11 a.m. and prizes and trophies will be awarded from 11 a.m. to noon. Cost is $1 per participant. Entertainment will be provided throughout the event. For more information, call 727-895-7437.

Moms get in free on their special day and can enjoy unique displays by local artists and merchants. Great Explorations kids can create their own gift of art for Mom while exploring the museum. Cost is $8 for adults and $7 for children 3-11 and seniors. Members are free. For more information, call 727-821-8992.

A Mother's Day Champagne Brunch will be held at the Museum of Fine Arts beginning at 12:30 p.m. The event will be catered by Orange Blossom and there will be special favors for mothers. Cost of brunch is $40. The price also includes admission to the exhibit "Chihuly Across Florida." Prepaid reservations are required. For more information, call 727-896-2667.

Calling all star gazers! Great Explorations, with the support of the St. Petersburg Astronomy Club, will offer free public telescope viewing from 8:30 to 11 p.m. Comet c/2001 Q4 as well as Mars, Saturn and Jupiter will be visible after twilight. Museum admission is $8 for adults and $7 for children 3-11 and seniors. Members are free. For more information, call 727-821-8992.

Dali Museum docent and Spanish scholar Don Mussleman will unravel the complexity of the unpublished book Dali and his friend Federico Garcia Lorca were preparing before they parted over mutual differences. For more information, call 727-823-3767.

This event will feature food, fun and golf to support the education and outreach programs of the Florida Holocaust Museum. It will be held at the Isla Del Sol Yacht and Country Club. For more information, call 727-820-0100 x 249.

This event is the newest addition to the Tampa Bay area’s road racing calendar. The race will start and finish at St. Anthony's outpatient center and wind its way throughout the Carillon office park. The event will have something for everyone, featuring a 5K run, a 1-mile run/walk for the less competitive and kids races. The race also will offer ChampionChip timing, a USATF certified course, a post-race party, T-shirts for all participants and awards to the top three finishers of each age group. For more information, call 727-825-1271.

Weedon Island will host a butterfly count as part of a national effort to track the butterfly populations of North America. These counts provide important information about the geographical distributions and population sizes of the species counted. Volunteers will need to attend a training session prior to this event. To register and for more information, contact Don Stillwaugh at 727-453-6932.

This event, in its 20th year, receive hundreds of spectators and participants and includes a 0.5-mile swim, 15.0-mile bike race and a 3.5-mile run. More than 800 triathletes compete in the triathlon. For more information, call 727-399-5804 or email at [email protected]

Safety Harbor celebrates its 19th Annual Heritage Weekend. Patrons of all ages are invited to come and enjoy a weekend of music, a road race, delicious food, exciting activities, and a quality arts & crafts show offered by various Safety Harbor organizations. Festivities include a free Concert Under the Stars, the 19th Annual Safety Harbor Sprints 5K and one mile races, the Safety Harbor Museum of Regional History annual Fish Fry and the 19th annual Safety Harbor Heritage Day Arts and Crafts Festival. Guests are invited to enjoy a free car show and to visit the craft vendors who will be stationed along Main Street. For more information, call 727-726-2890.

Great Explorations celebrates the arrival of summer with a day of family fun. Use your artistic abilities to create a toad home in your garden, try out a kayak, discover fly fishing, and visit the nature room. Great fun for kids of all ages! Admission for adults is $8 and $7 for children 3-11 and seniors. Members are free. For more information, call 727-821-8992.

Based on Victor Hugo's classic novel, it is the epic musical story of the fugitive Jean Valjean, who is pitted against the cruel and self-righteous Inspector Javert in a lifelong struggle to evade capture. For more information, call 813-229-7827.

Heritage Village hosts this living history event in its 20th year as Union and Confederate troops battle. The event includes artillery demonstrations, infantry drills and the big battle. Period crafts and other items will be for sale at the event. Admission and parking are free. The annual Heritage Village Skirmish is scheduled for 2 p.m. Artillery demonstrations and infantry drills will be held on the hour. Other activities include the Officers Call, a court martial, and the Grand March. Food will be available for purchase. Bring comfortable seating or ground cover for the battle. For more information, call 727-582-2123.

The Florida Aquarium hosts this evening of wine, food from Bay Area restaurants, live music, silent auction and more. Tickets are $55 ($50 Aquarium members); $60 as of March 23. Event proceeds benefit the Florida Aquarium Veterinary & Education programs. For tickets and more information, call 813-273-4568.

Join historical researcher, Lisa Bradberry, as she regales the glitz and glamour of film production on Weedon Island. Sun Haven Studios produces three films during the 1930s. Clips of these movies will be shown. The presentation is from 11 a.m. to noon. For more information, call 727-453-6500.

"All the World" is an independent, feature-length film that is a modern-day Shakespeare driven dramedy about a dreamy, aspiring actress who is forced to read Shakespeare's plays in order to get a job. This film is appropriate for children over the age of 8. Cost is $10 per person. Screenings will be at 4 or 7 p.m. To purchase tickets, and for more information, call 727-518-6833.

The Florida Craftsmen Gallery will host its semi-annual Artists Trunk Sale which offers artists the opportunity to sell works that are experimental, exploratory, and/or slightly damaged - and at great prices. The sale is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call 727-896-7093.

The new Timeline Exhibit tells the story of Indian Rocks from the arrival of the first settlers up to present day. The display features select photos and narrative marking each stage of history. For more information, call 727-593-3861.

The city of Clearwater hosts this Memorial Day celebration at Coachman Park with food, entertainment and activities. Event is from 2 - 10 p.m. each day. For more information, call 727-562-4800.

Great Explorations will host a full day summer camp for children 5-12 yrs old. Before & after care available. Weekly themes and activities vary (ART SMART, UNDER THE SEA, PETS ON PARADE and more) and include fieldtrips, guest speakers and free museum time. A great way for kids to make discoveries, be creative and have fun! Member discount. For more information, call 727-821-8992.

Representatives of the Florida Holocaust Museum will present the Anne Frank Humanitarian Award (AFHA) to high school students from Pinellas county at 6:30 p.m. The guest presenter is John Loftus, noted author, radio commentator and former President of the Florida Holocaust Museum. This prestigious award is endorsed by the Anne Frank Center in New York. With this award, the Museum honors high school juniors who have made consistent choices reflecting their desire to better their community and the lives of other people. By doing so, these students give life to the Museum’s mission statement that states in part that it is “dedicated to teaching members of all races and cultures to recognize the inherent worth and dignity of human life.” For more information, call 727-820-0100.

American Stage Theater presents "God's Man in Texas," a play about a power struggle between a young and old pastor at a country church. The comedy is based on a true story. Wednesday and Thursday curtain is at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, curtain is at 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday matinee is at 3 p.m. For more information, call 727-823-7529.

The Tampa Bay Area's original and largest annual food festival returns to Vinoy Park celebrating its 18th anniversary with 50 restaurant vendors, chef specialties, kids activities throughout the weekend and concerts. Reo Speedwagon will perform Friday, June 4 at 8 p.m.; Kenny Loggins will perform Saturday, June 5 at 8 p.m. and Eddie Money will perform Sunday, June 6 at 5 p.m. There will be a Fireworks Display on Saturday night. Event hours are Friday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday noon -7 p.m. General admission is $10. Children 12 and under are free and will have an arts and crafts tent with face painting, puppet making and much more. For more information, call 727-892-4193.

The Rotary Club of Dunedin presents this event that includes a 1/4 mile swim, a 12 bike ride and a 5K run that will take place at Honeymoon Island State Park. Race begins at 7:30 a.m. For more information, call 727-642-3929.

Pinellas County is offering a new program this summer – four weeks of exploration that will help develop young minds. Each week will explore a different wonder of nature. Marshland, A Tree-mendous Adventure, Snails, Slugs & Slimy Things and Track, Scat, Imagine That are the four themes. Camps are open to children between the ages of six and ten. Camp registration begins March 29 with the first week of camp starting on June 7. Each week’s camp is limited to 30 students and will be filled on a first come, first served basis. For cost and more information, call 464-3347.

Come celebrate the five Pinellas projects selected for 2004 Florida Trust Preservation Awards. Local projects that won include the relighting of Anclote Key Lighthouse, the Stafford House restoration in Tarpon Springs, and restoration of the Rheba Sutton White Chapel in Palm Harbor. Two St Petersburg projects won Organization Achievement awards: Grand Central District's Main Street Program and the Greenwood Cemetery project led by members of Pinellas Heritage and the Pinellas Genealogy Society. Vintage St Pete is designed to bring vinophiles, historic preservation, and community development interests together for an evening of fine wine, conversation and networking. Intended to be a quarterly event, this inaugural party will take place from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $25, fine wines and heavy hors d'ouvres will be provided. Proceeds benefit local preservation initiatives, and an annual membership in Pinellas Heritage is included. To RSVP, fill out our online form, email [email protected] or call (727) 894-0340.

This invitational juried exhibition showcases male contemporary quilt artists from across the country. The techniques, craftsmanship and artistic motives of these male artists are compared with their female contemporaries. For more information, call 727-298-3322.

This event is sponsored by the Gulfanatics Dive Club and is open to freedivers and divers of all ages. Admission is $50 in advance for adults and $35 in advance under 18 years of age. For more information, call 727-934-6474.

Two pirate ships battle it out in John's Pass and then invade the streets of John's Pass Village. There will be pirate games for children, a children's costume contest and the Pirates and Wenches Costume Ball. There will also be a Hurricane Awareness and Merchant expo both days. The festival is named after pioneer turtle farmer John Levique who discovered that a hurricane had changed the coastline of the city and created a pass, which was named after him. For more information, call 727-394-0756.

This cultural extravaganza features colorful costumes, arts, crafts, dancing, steel drums and music from around the Caribbean, including calypso, soca, reggae and steel orchestra. The festivities take place in Vinoy Park in downtown St. Petersburg and run from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Admission is $10. Don't miss the Steel Pan Panorama Competition and Carnival Parade. For more information, call 727-894-3429.

This exhibit contains 20 of Paul Strand's photogravures, known for their high quality reproduction and detail. Strand created exquisite photographs of Mexico between 1932 and 1934 and provided the foundation for American 20th century photography. For more information, call 727-896-2667.

Join Lee Snyder as he discusses the various species of shorebirds that are common to the central gulf coast of Florida. This interesting and educational presentation will be filled with beautiful photographs and illustrations. for more information and to register, call 727-453-6500.

Dave Koz performs with Jeffrey Osborne, Jonathan Butler and Waymon Tisdale at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Performance begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $37 and $42 and limited VIP seating is $75. For tickets and more information, call 727-791-7355.

A juried exhibition of work created by high school students from throughout Pinellas County during the 2003-04 school year. This exhibition is presented in cooperation with Art Curriculum Supervisor for Pinellas County, and features work submitted by public and private high school students in two and three-dimensional media. This year’s juror for Pinellas County High School Survey is Rachel Stewart, assistant curator of exhibitions at the Arts Center, St. Petersburg. For more information, call 727-518-6833.

The Florida Holocaust Museum will once again offer the annual Summer Institutes during the month of June. This year, at their Human Rights and Genocide Studies, the keynote speaker will be the well-informed dynamic lecturer and author Ambassador John Shattuck. John Shattuck will be discussing his new book Freedom on Fire: Human Rights Wars and America’s Response, published by Harvard University Press. His career spans nearly three decades in government service and the nonprofit sector. Formerly served as U.S. Ambassador to the Czech Republic. The lecture will take place from 7 – 9 p.m. on the 3rd floor. The Museum will also be open for guided tours beginning at 5:30 pm. (Museum admission fee will apply to non-members). For more information, call 727-820-0100 ext. 250.

Island Explorers is part of Weedon Island's Education Centers' summer education program. The experience is open to students who will enter 6th - 8th grade in the fall of 2004. Students will spend three days hiking, wading and canoeing while learning about the unique habitats, wildlife and history of the Weedon Island Preserve. This course is limited to 15 students each session. The second session is July 6-8. Participants will need to provide their own food and refreshments. Interested students must fill out an application form to be considered. For more information, call 727-453-6504.

William Wegman's clever and innovative images of weimaraners are the perfect works for the dog days of summer. His best know images picture weimaraners as nearly human. For more information, call 727-896-2667.

This exhibit features work by abstract artists and the New York School after 1950. The artistic freedom so evident in these works was promoted by the government during the cold war as a counter to the more repressive communist regimes. This propaganda was directed to the outside world. Works by Willem de Kooning, Robert Motherwell, Norman Bluhm and Michael Goldberg are included. For more information, call 727-896-2667.

This exhibit is a selection of choice works on paper by American artists from the late 19th to the mid-20th century. Artists include Whistler, Childe Hassam, John Sloan, George Bellows and Grant Wood. For more information, call 727-896-2667.

Modeled after the popular "Antique Road Show" using local antique experts, visitors can pay a nominal fee to have their heirlooms or other personal treasures appraised. Event is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 727-582-2123.

The celebration commemorates the emancipation of slaves in America and is the oldest African-American holiday in observance in America. The 13th Annual Juneteenth of Tampa Bay features three days of activities. Saturday's free "Family Fun Festival" is from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Campbell Park. It includes live entertainment from local and regional musical acts, African American Dance Troupes, Storytelling, Face Painting, youth workshops, historical presentations, Food Vendors and more. Sunday features a "Gospel Extravaganza" at a designated African American Church. For more information, call 727-824-0810.

The 8th annual Heart of Largo Festival celebrates the music, food and dance of the United States of America. Activity wristbands are available for $5.00 each or as a family four pack for $15. The festival will also have entertainment throughout the evening and a fantastic fireworks display at 9 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 727-587-6793.

Bring dads of all ages to Great Explorations for a day designed just for Dad. Door prizes from local merchants that your special guy is sure to love. Kids can make their own gift for dad and explore the museum. Dad’s admission is free. For more information, call 727-821-8992.

Held outdoors on Main Street in downtown Dunedin, this beautiful area is a perfect setting for a perfect show. The show will feature more than 100 crafters in a variety of mediums. For more information, call 727-298-3198.

Calling all star gazers! Great Explorations, with the support of the St. Petersburg Astronomy Club, will offer free public telescope viewing from 9 to 11 p.m. Museum stays open until 9 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults and $7 for children 3-11 and seniors. Members are free. For more information, call 727-821-8992.

The Inaugural Gators Café and Tampa Bay Beaches World Amateur Golf Tournament is a three-day event showcasing the talents of 360 amateur golfers from around the world. The tournament will be at the Westin Innisbrook Golf Resort, the Bardmoor Golf & Tennis Club and Mangrove Bay Golf Course. There will be nightly events with food and live entertainment held for golfers and families. Prizes will be awarded for top performers as well as hole-in-one prizes. For more information, call 727-898-8528.

GREASE, starring Frankie Avalon, turns back time to 1959. Additionally, Frankie Avalon will perform several of his own songs after each performance of GREASE. GREASE, one of Broadway’s longest-running musicals, takes a hilarious, tuneful and loving look at what it was like growing-up in the super-cool ’50s with the funniest gang of high school students ever. GREASE is the story of Danny Zuko, king of the Burger Palace Boys, and Sandy Dumbrowski, the wholesome, naïve and pretty transfer student. In true teenage fashion, they fall in love, break up and pine for each other while enduring the high school ribbing of their friends. Come early and have fun with the coolest of cool deejays, Vince Fontaine, as he spins your favorite tunes from the era at the best dance party in town. The performance schedule will be Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets range from $29.50 to $56.50. For tickets or more information, call 813-229-7827.

The Tampa Bay Feline Fanciers Cat Club is sponsoring this first International Cat Agility Tournament competition in Florida. The show will feature all breeds of cats, including the popular Leopard-like Bengal, Ragamuffin, hairless Sphynx, Tonkinese, Orientals, Siamese, Persion, Himalayan, and many more. Unique cat toys, furniture, clothing, jewelry, and hard to find gifts for the special cat lover will be available. Arts and crafts vendors and other businesses wil also attend. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $6 general, $4 children (5 and under are free). For more information, call 727-866-9648.

This event is held on the weekend closest to July 4th. The city of Clearwater celebrates the July 4th weekend with a "Taste of America" food expo and concerts in Coachman Park. Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m. on the 4th of July. For more information, call 727-562-4813.

The Florida Aquarium celebrates the Fourth of July holiday with Freedom Fest outside the Aquarium and along Channelside Drive. This event features music, strolling entertainment, food vendors, stilt walkers, jugglers, barber shop quartet, face painting, family entertainment, hands-on exhibits, marine exhibits and a fireworks display. For more information, call 813-273-4030.

The Pier will hosts its annual 4th of July Celebration - sponsored by The Pier, Clear Channel Communications and the City of St. Petersburg. There will be a variety of activities in the downtown area and at The Pier, beginning with bands in the Courtyard of The Pier from 1 p.m. until midnight. The featured radio station will be 93.3 WFLZ with a live remote from 5 to 8 p.m. A giveaway, valued at $5,000, will be announced soon with registration held at The Pier two weeks out from the 4th. There will also be performances by Liang, Chun Asian Acrobat in the Dockside Activity Room beginning at 12:30 p.m. Also on site will be Heather Flower, face painter extraordinnaire, and two characters from Fritzy Bros. One Man Circus. Fireworks are at 9 p.m. off Spa Beach with the best viewing at The Pier! For more information, call 727-821-6443.

The Rotary Club of Dunedin hosts the second annual Honeymoon Island Beach Bash from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The festival will include food and drinks, an arts and crafts show, business vendors, a giant waterslide, bungee jumping, a rock-climbing wall and a moon walk for children. The Blue Jay's pitching machine will be on hand, as well as entertainment including music and karaoke. There will be a donation of $5 per car at the gate. For more information, call 727-515-7767.

The City of St. Pete Beach features a fabulous fireworks display to celebrate the 4th. The show starts at dusk at the County Beach Park across from Dolphin Village. For more information, call 727-367-2735.

The City celebrates the Fourth with a day-long gala of exhibits, entertainment, food and a giant fireworks display over the waterfront. For more information, call 727-893-7494.

This annual event is the only midnight race in the Tampa Bay area. Held every year on July 4th, one minute after midnight, the Run includes a 5K and 10K and begins at 12:01 a.m. on the Dunedin Causeway. For more information, call 727-733-8442.

Festivities begin at 10 a.m and the day includes a sandcastle contest, games, live music, a children's pageant, a parade and of course, fireworks beginning at 9 p.m. Activities are located on Shore and Beach boulevards as well as Gulfport Beach. For more information, call 727-893-1070.

Dunedin celebrates Independence Day at Edgewater Park with live entertainment, arts & crafts vendors, children's activities including pony rides, a petting zoo and a moonwalk. Food vendors will also be stationed around the park. For more information, call 727-298-3260.

The Clearwater Sailing Center will celebrat our Nation’s Birth all day and night on the 4th of July. Come enjoy sailing, friends, food, and fireworks. There will also be a Patriotic Sail Parade around Clearwater Bay from 2 to 4 p.m. For more information, call 727-517-7776.

Island Explorers is part of Weedon Island's Education Centers' summer education program. The experience is open to students who will enter 6th - 8th grade in the fall of 2004. Students will spend three days hiking, wading and canoeing while learning about the unique habitats, wildlife and history of the Weedon Island Preserve. This course is limited to 15 students each session. The second session is July 6-8. Participants will need to provide their own food and refreshments. Interested students must fill out an application form to be considered. For more information, call 727-453-6504.

The annual juried Studioworks> exhibition presents the work of the Museum's instructors and students. The exhibition is designed to demonstrate the strength of the Museum's teaching program. All media, including painting, mixed media, photography and ceramics, will be included in the exhibition. For more information, call 727-518-6833.

Kids ages 5-11 can experience life in Pinellas County’s past during this exciting two-week program that features a fun and engaging journey into Florida’s local history from the 1840s to the 1940s. Depending on the session attended, children can participate in a wide range of activities, such as spinning cotton, churning butter, palmetto weaving and playing vintage games with local craftspeople, storytellers and living history interpreters. The two sessions are: · Pioneer Pinellas (July 12 – July 16): Florida from the 1840s through the 1890s. · Fresh Squeezed Fun (July 19 – July 23): Pinellas from the 1890s through the 1940s. Each of the classes runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The sessions are $125 per week, with before care from 8 a.m. until 9 a.m. and after care from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. available for a nominal fee. To register, or for more information, call 727-582-2426.

The American Stage, St. Petersburg's professional theater, presents "My Way: A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra." Enjoy more than 50 classic hits in this cabaret-style show. Wednesday and Thursday curtain is at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday curtain is at 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Matinee curtain is at 3 p.m. For more information, call 727-823-7529.

Tarpon Avenue between Ring and Pinellas Avenues in Tarpon Springs is the location for this event, which is a mix of auctions, food and drink and live jazz music. Events begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 5 p.m. For more information, call 727-937-6109.

From Scholastic Entertainment, Clifford The Big Red Dog® LIVE! features the lovable canine in a big, oversized musical adventure set on Birdwell Island. For more than 40 years, Scholastic’s Clifford The Big Red Dog® has charmed and amazed children with his engaging adventures and “Big Ideas.” Now, kids will have a whole new way to experience the crimson canine with the first-ever Clifford live stage show. Ticket prices are $12.50, $22.50 and $27.50. For more information, or to purchase tickets, call 813-229-7827.

Learn how to prepare you and your family in the event of a hurricane. The expo will feature a theatre presentation, GIS evacuation zone look ups, vendor and nonprofit fair. For more information, call 727-464-5197.

The writer, producer and songstress appears in concert at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Performance begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $67 and $77 and limited VIP Seating is $102. For tickets and more information, call 727-791-7355.

This event is for children age 12 and under allows pole fishing only. Pole, line and bait will be provided. Free admission. 9 a.m.-11a.m. on Jorgenson Lake (behind the main library.) For more information, call 727-892-5874.

This traveling exhibit, created by the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, celebrates 50 years of school integration since the landmark 1954 Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision. The exhibit will be complemented by special tours and programming, as well as an exhibit on local desegregation efforts – The Long and Winding Road – produced by the Pinellas County African American History Museum. For more information, call 727-582-2123.

This quaint town on Boca Ciega Bay celebrates the little lizards known as Geckos with a family festival and parade complete with fireworks. Artists in Gulfport's ArtVillage are creating pins, hats and yard ornaments celebrating these salamanders. Visitors are encouraged to wear colorful costumes and hats. Craft tables will be set up with supplies for those who didn't bring their Gecko garb. The Gecko Festival is from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. on the waterfront in Gulfport. The Walking Parade begins at 8 p.m. Don't miss this fantastic event with the summer ending fireworks display at 9 p.m.! For more information, call 727-893-1070.

Nilo Cruz, the first Latino playwright to win the Pulitzer, has honored American Stage by granting the theatre the rights to the Tampa Bay premiere of his award-winning Tampa Bay story, Anna In The Tropics. Set in 1929 in one of the last functioning old-style cigar factories in Ybor City, this romantic drama revolves around a family of cigar workers and a celebrated new "lector" who sails to Tampa to read to the workers as they hand roll cigars. But as Juan Julian reads aloud daily from Anna Karenina, he becomes a lightning rod for the emotions of his avid listeners, for whom Tolstoy and the tropics prove a sensual but volatile combination. For more information, call 727-823-1600.

Attendees can sample food and drinks from over 50 area restaurants for the price of one single ticket at the 14th annual Taste of Clearwater. Harborview Center hosts the event which also includes a jazz band on the main stage, a caricature artist, magician, balloon twister, face painter and solo acoustic artist as well as a large raffle with great prizes. Hours are 5-8 p.m. For more information, call 727-461-0011.

The state's only San Gennaro festival takes to Main Street in historic Safety Harbor, Florida on Sunday, September 26, 2004 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Drawing on the spirit of the 78-year-old New York City tradition, this family event is free and open to the public. The festival will feature continuous live entertainment, appearances by the nationally renown Arena twins and many otherperformers, children's activities, and games. Featured contests include a meatball eating contest and a cannoli eating contest. An array of traditional Italian festival foods and other popular snacks highlight the event. The traditional San Gennaro procession will take place in late afternoon. For more information call 727-347-1936.

TEAM Sandtastic hosts the 1st Annual Pier Sand Sculpture Contest. Sand Clinics will also be held. For more information, call 727-821-6443.

This tournament for children with disabilities is always held the first Saturday in October. Fishing will be done on Clearwater's Pier 60. To register, call the Clearwater Municipal Marina at 727-462-6954 between 8 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. M-F. For more information, call 727-462-6954 or 727-789-5399.

The Seventh Annual Festival & Nature Expo features the best of Florida birding with 25 field trips throughout the region, internationally known bird and wildlife experts and an exciting Nature Expo. The Festival offers a conservation mission with proceeds going to the management of Shell Key Preserve, one of Florida's most important areas for shorebirds. For more information, call 727-464-7200.

This event will feature top name aerobatic performers, military fly-bys and static display aircraft as well as World War II and vintage aircraft performances. Spectators can expect an up close look at displays ranging from early military Warbirds and military vehicles to modern day experimental aircraft. There will be plenty of food, musical entertainment, antique cars and children's exhibits as well. Proceeds from this event benefit the Albert Whitted Airport Preservation Society. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call 813-917-1967.

In its 25th year, the annual Jazz Holiday brings together all veins of jazz music together in 4 days of free entertainment at Coachman Park in downtown Clearwater. From bebop to blues, from big band to the compositions of Frank Zappa, there is something for everyone. For more information, call 727-461-5200.

The YMCA of the Suncoast presents this bicycling event in beautiful Safety Habor for cycling enthusiasts. There will be cycling events and entertainment for children, families, amateurs and professionals. For more information, call 727-467-9622.

Tropicana Field comes alive with the Bands of America Regional Competition. Bands from throughout the United States will compete to take home the regional title. For more information, call 800-848-2263.

This weekend festival features German music, food, beer and wine, along with full midway, carnival, art/crafters, American food and business vendors. Come enjoy the interactive games and activities such as log sawing, keg hurling, stein holding and the annual Waitress Races. For more information, call 813-855-4233.

The Pinellas County Historical Society presents this jubilee with more than 125 craftspeople displaying and selling their homemade goods. The event features pioneer and Victorian craft demonstrations, live entertainment, a petting zoo, historic house tours and food. The jubilee runs 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call 727-582-2123.

The first ever Discover and Celebrate Gulfport festival will feature food ‘tastes’ from local establishments, entertainment and art on the beautiful waterfront of Boca Ciega Bay. Vendors will line Beach Boulevard from 9 a.m. till 5 p.m. A build your own float race, an old-fashioned cook-off and live entertainment will be part of the excitement. For more information, call 727-344-3711.

The City of Largo presents Halloween Spooktacular from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Largo Central Park. This event is a Halloween carnival with inflatables, a rock climbing wall, giant slide, carnival games and arts & crafts. Trick or treating is free and anyone can enter the Halloween Carnival with a $5 wristband. For more information, call 727-587-6775.

The PGA Chrysler Championship will be held on the Copperhead Course at the Westin Innisbrook Resort. The event will feature some of the top names in professional golf one week before the PGA tour championship. Proceeds from all ticket sales will go to area charities. For more information, call 727-942-5566.

Held every year on the last Saturday in October, this year's event is the 32nd Annual Outdoor Peoples Fair with arts, music and games and is a celebration of peace, freedom, justice and creativity. The event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 727-327-6726 or 727-896-0310.

Gods and mortals meet, clash, make and fall in love in and around a shimmering pool of water that spans the stage and stretches across time. This adaptation has garnered universal raves from countless critics and audience members for its humorous contemporary sensibility in the telling of timeless Greek and Roman myths, including the stories of King Midas, Bacchus, Orpheus and Eurydice, Narcissus, and Cupid and Psyche. Luxuriant, sexy, visually stunning stories about the transforming power of love. For more information, call 727-823-7529.

This event in its 14th year features live music from nationally prominent bands focusing on traditional jazz and swing. The Sheraton Sand Key Resort and the Radisson Suite Resort host this musical festival. For more information, call 727-595-1611.

More than 200 animated displays and nearly one million lights are on display on the two mile route around Lake Seminole Park. Lights Under the Stars is open every night, Sunday through Thursday, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Holiday nights. Admission to the event is $10 for cars, motorcycles and minivans, $20 for small buses and $50 for buses. To ensure the safety of the event, no bicyclists or pedestrians will be allowed in the park during operating hours. For more information, call 727-464-3347.

The Turkey Trot celebrates its 26th anniversary with an anticipated 10,000 runners trotting through Clearwater. The event features a one-mile "Gobbler" run, 5-kilometer (3.1 mile) "Wingding" and 10-kilometer (6.2 mile) "Turkey Trot." Proceeds from the St. Petersburg Times Turkey Trot will be donated to many local charities. Runners are welcome to bring canned goods and non-perishable food items in the stadium on race day. All collected foods will be given to the food pantry program. For more information, call 727-442-5838.

Enjoy live entertainment, a boat show, arts & crafts, Osprey Village, carnival rides, plus great seafood and other taste treats. Festival hours are: Friday, 3 - 8:30 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information, call 727-733-3197.

One of the largest lighted boat parades in the area, St. Petersburg’s annual event (which is always held the first Saturday of December) starts at sundown and goes from the Harborage Marina north past the Pier to the Vinoy Basin. The Pier and surrounding parks offer great spots for parade watching and feature a host of activities associated with the event. For more information, call 727-821-6443.

The city of Gulfport, just west of St. Petersburg, starts its lighted boat parade from the Boca Ciega Yacht Club. The route goes from the yacht club marina, past the city pier and municipal beach, and through several areas along Boca Ciega Bay. The 16th annual parade starts at 6 p.m. and ends at approximately 8 p.m. For more information, call 727-321-7295.

The City of St. Petersburg presents this festival featuring real SNOW and ice skating to celebrate the holidays. The day starts with a 10 a.m. parade going through downtown St. Petersburg near the Renaissance Vinoy Resort. Straub Park hosts the event which will feature a Winter Wonderland petting zoo, arts & crafts, an ice rink as well as toboggan rides. South Straub Park will feature a crafts show. Snowfest runs until 3 p.m. For more information, call 727-893-7465.

Celebrate the holiday season with beautifully decorated pioneer and Victorian homes at Heritage Village, international trees decorated by SPIFFS, dancing and music, nature walks and exhibits at the Florida Botanical Gardens, train displays, a holiday craft fair, storytelling and holiday entertainment, holiday craft making stations for children, food, and much more! The event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for more information, call 727-582-2123.

Children adorned with wings and bug eyes strut their bugery in the "Parade of Wings" beginning at 6 p.m. The activity is in conjunction with the annual Seasonal Sensations lighting ceremony at the FBG in the Pinewood Cultural Park. Decorated wagons, strollers, and children are encouraged to parade, but please no bicycles, rollerblades, scooters, or motorized vehicles because of safety concerns. There is live music during and after the parade and refreshments for the children. Participants meet in the Extension lobby at 5 p.m. For more information and to pre-register call 727-582-2671.

Each year Animal Services celebrates the animals that have been adopted through the year with a festival that includes free pet pictures with Mrs. Santa Paws, $1 rabies shots, free food, prizes, clowns and face painters, dog demonstrations, a petting zoo and much more! From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call 582-2600.

This long parade starts at the historic Merry Pier in the Pass-A-Grille section of St. Pete Beach and runs north past the Don CeSar to the tip of the island. The parade starts at 6 p.m. and plenty of space is available for parade watching at the Merry Pier. For more information, call 727-363-9245.

The Fellowship of Christian Athletes Breakfast is held at the Hyatt Regency Tampa and attended by players and coaches. For reservations or more information, call the FCA at 813-235-6219.

This free event features performances and competitions by team bands and cheerleaders as well as a pre-football meeting of the players and coaches who will be facing each other in the New Year's Day bowl game. This beachside pep rally includes live music, skydivers, a tug-of-war and other contests from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort. For more information, call 727-461-3222.

Downtown St. Petersburg comes together with more than 20 venues featured in this alcohol-free celebration for adults and children alike. Centered around the Pier and Vinoy basin, First Night features everything from fire sculptures to music, dancing, poetry, puppetry, theater, art, games and fireworks at midnight. Event hours are 5:30 p.m. to midnight. For more information, call 727-823-8906.

Eclectic Ybor City is the site of this festive celebration featuring the TECO Energy Parade, a pep rally by the marching bands, cheerleaders and a spectacular fireworks show. The parade will feature floats and thirty marching bands. This free family event starts at 5:30 p.m. and runs along 7th Avenue. The fireworks show blasts off at 8:15 p.m. For more information, call 813-874-2695.

Countdown to 2005 at the Belleview Biltmore Resort's Tiffany ballroom. Costs for the gala, which includes party favors and wine with dinner, is $100 per person, plus tax and gratuity. For more information, call 727-373-3768.

One of the premier college football bowl games and the first bowl game of New Year's Day, the Outback Bowl features two of the nation's top teams from the Big 10 and SEC plus national television coverage. The game is played at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. A week-long series of events precede the big game including the Bowl Beach Day. Don't miss the halftime show which features more than 5,000 performers. Kickoff is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. (Gates open 9:30 a.m.). For more information, call 813-874-2695.

A day-long religious celebration by Greek Orthodox followers that includes a morning service at the St. Nicholas Cathedral, dive for the cross in Spring Bayou, releasing a white dove of peace, Greek foods, music and dancing. The festival is held the 6th of January every year. For more information, call 727-937-3540.

Tapestry will indeed take audiences on a musical journey through the career of legendary singer/songwriter Carole King from the turbulent 60’s through the present with hits like “I Feel the Earth Move," "It's Too Late," "You've Got a Friend," "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow?" "I'm Into Something Good," "The Loco-Motion," "One Fine Day," "Up on the Roof," and "(You Make Me Feel Like a) Natural Woman." King’s groundbreaking 1971 album Tapestry stayed in the Top-40 for six years, selling 11 million copies and winning four Grammy Awards. For more information, call 727-823-7529.

The Pinellas County Historical Society presents its annual festival held at Heritage Village. This free event features traditional folk music, storytelling and pioneer crafts and performances by skilled artisans. Sheep to shawl activities, vintage 1890s baseball, a traditional rug hooking and embroidery show and a food court are all included in the day's activities. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call 727-582-2123.

From the team that created the hit My Way: A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra comes the world premiere of I Left My Heart. Journey through four decades of music, from Bennett’s early top-40 hits, to jazz recordings with Count Basie, Stan Getz and Bill Evans, to his torch songs, to film scores, all the way to his recent MTV “Unplugged” special which introduced him to a whole new generation of listeners. I Left My Heart has a thrilling score of 40 standards. An unforgettable evening for anyone who loves the music of George Gershwin, Harold Arlen, Johnny Mercer, Duke Ellington or Cole Porter! For more information, call 727-823-7259.

Four old friends banter their way through 18 holes as they wage war against “the cursed game,” the inexorable hand of time and each other. One has lost his best friend, one, his brother, one, his wife, and one (an ex-priest), his faith. As they make their way around the links they ponder some of the great mysteries of the universe; including the meaning of life, the nature of God and the whereabouts of the golf ball astronaut Alan Shepard sent hurtling across the surface of the moon. For more information, call 727-823-7529.

This step show will include a host of step teams from around the state of Florida. There will be song, dance and drama entertainment, along with door prizes and refreshments. The night's finalists will compete in the finals at the Florida African American Heritage Celebration on Saturday at Pinewood Cultural Park. Tickets are $5. For more information, call 727-469-4100.

The sixth Florida African American Heritage Celebration will feature the sounds of gospel, jazz/blues and traditional African drumming and dance; the aromas of authentic ethnic recipes; an exciting marketplace with arts and crafts and other merchandise with African and African American themes and styles and hands-on activities and visual and performing art workshops for adults and children. The event is from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call 727-582-2123.

The St. Petersburg/Clearwater area a 90-year history of spring training and is the only place where a Major League teams trains in its own regular-season city. The area features the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in St. Petersburg, the Philadelphia Phillies in Clearwater, the Toronto Blue Jays in Dunedin and the New York Yankees in nearby Tampa. There are also 10 other teams within a 2-hour drive. For more information on the Devil Rays, call 727-898-RAYS, for Phillies information, call 727-442-8496 and for Blue Jays information, call 727-733-0429.

Heritage Village hosts this day-long event with military encampments, displays of memorabilia, swing dancers, vintage cars and townspeople in period costumes. Enjoy a USO Revue and swing dancing; meet “President Roosevelt;” watch a military fashion show; view displays of memorabilia; and mingle with Allied and Axis re-enactors. Kids can try on period clothes, play a “plane spotting” game and more! The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is free. For more information, call 727-582-2123.

Almost 100 original and restored antique cars are on display nestled among the historic structures at Heritage Village. Musical entertainment, hands-on activities for adults and children and more await visitors. This event will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, contact 727-582-2127.

A young woman strives for her full intellectual inheritance while shouldering the ponderous weight of her brilliant, mad father’s legacy in this poetic mystery. Catherine has spent years caring for her brilliant but unstable father, a famous mathematician. Now, after his death, she must deal with her own volatile emotions; the arrival of her estranged sister, Claire; and the attentions of Hal, who hopes to find valuable work in the 103 notebooks that her father left behind. For more information, call 727-823-7529.

Sunny Jacobs, a young mother framed for murder, lost the sixteen years of her life between 1976 and 1992 when she was wrongly convicted and sentenced to death. The Exonerated is comprised of the unforgettable true stories of Sunny and five other people who were convicted of capital crimes, only to later be acquitted and released. Both a revealing and disheartening portrait of our justice system and a potent testimony to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope. For more information, call 727-823-7529.

Santa will ride down the streets of downtown St. Petersburg and bring in the holiday season. The traditional Santa Parade will march down Bayshore Drive at 10 a.m. and end at North Straub Park, where the annual Snowfest romp for youngsters will be stationed. For more information, call 727-892-5874.

The Dunedin Historical Society hosts this tour of homes in from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance and $18 the day of the tour. For more information, call 727-736-1176.

Each Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to noon, the Pier hosts a kids club, sponsored by Parent Guide Magazine. Entertainment varies each week. From 1 - 4 p.m. there is Saturday Afternoon Family Fun, which features music, entertainment and face painting. For more information, call 727-821-6443.

Fresh produce, baked goods, coffee, handmade soaps, flowers and specialty food items will be available at this outdoor fresh market. The market is open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon. For more information, call 727-321-0665.

Every 4th Saturday of the month, Gulfport showcases the galleries and shops that make up its ArtVillage and features a sidewalk sale. Guests can visit the many wonderful shops that feature original paintings, pottery, handmade jewelry, wearable art, sculptures, hand blown glass, collectibles and much more at this village gathering. Gulfport's Art Village features shops, restaurants, cafes and nightspots on Beach Blvd. The sale runs 11 - 3p.m. For more information, call 727-321-0830.

The Downtown Arts Association holds an evening art gallery walk the second Saturday of every month. More than 20 art galleries in the downtown area of St. Petersburg participate in the evening stroll and stay open until 9 p.m. For more information, call 727-821-6767 or 727-895-1166.

Every 3rd Saturday of the month, Gulfport showcases the galleries and shops that make up its ArtVillage. Guests can browse and enjoy a festive evening featuring art, music and more in this pedestrian-friendly historic district. More than 40 galleries, studios, boutiques and restaurants are featured in this monthly event from 6-10 p.m. Most shops serve free treats and refreshments. For more information, call 727-321-7741.