PRESENTED BY PENSACOLA LITTLE THEATRE | OCT. 30 - NOV. 9
PRESENTED BY FRIENDS OF DOWNTOWN PENSACOLA | OCT. 30 - NOV. 10
PRESENTED BY JAPAN AMERICA SOCIETY OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA | OCT. 31 - NOV. 2
PRESENTED BY LEGAL SERVICES OF NORTH FLORIDA | NOV. 2
PRESENTED BY PENSACOLA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA | NOV. 2
PRESENTED BY PENARTS | NOV. 4 - 9
PRESENTED BY PENSACOLA STATE COLLEGE LECTURE + RECEPTION: NOV. 4 | EXHIBIT RUNS ALL OF FOO :
PRESENTED BY PENSACOLA OPERA | NOV. 5
PRESENTED BY NIGHT MOVES | NOV. 8
DOWNTOWN CROWD | NOVEMBER 2025
Morgan Cole, Editor
The holiday season is quickly approaching, and once again, Pensacola is gearing up for a fall packed with excitement. Fall not only brings us cooler temperatures, it also serves as the official kick-off to festival season here in Pensacola.
From the ever-popular Winterfest event series to the dynamic, 12-day celebration of art and culture we call Foo Foo Fest, there’s no shortage of creative cultural happenings and events taking place in downtown Pensacola this month.
In this issue, we’ve brought you details on this year’s grant-funded Foo Foo events, along with a few new and returning favorites. From October 30 through November 10, Foo Foo Fest will transform the downtown streets into a vibrant hub of creativity. Check out the story on page 15 so you don’t miss out on any of the upcoming Foo Foo fun.
You will also read about the return of Epilepsy Alliance of Florida’s Chili Cook-off at The Handlebar in downtown Pensacola. This much-loved tradition has become a local favorite, attracting chili connoisseurs and some of the best chili cooks from across the city—all in the name of raising awareness for epilepsy. Flip to page eight to see what’s cooking for this year’s event.
As always, we hope you enjoy this month’s issue. Embrace the autumn vibes and have a wonderful and turkey-filled Thanksgiving holiday.
Cheers,
SHOUT OUT
Celebrating the Wins That Lift Us All
Soul Bowl 2025 Brings Energy, Unity, and Excitement
Pensacola’s Young Gridiron Stars Ignite Blue Wahoos Stadium in Championship Clash
For 33 years, the SYSA Soul Bowl has been much more than an annual sporting event—it’s been a powerful force for unity and positive change in our community.
This epic yearly football and food showdown brings together inner-city youth sports leagues for a day of friendly competition and celebration. Every year, when the more than 300 young athletes and cheerleaders take to the field, they’re not just playing for a trophy; they’re connecting with a legacy that lifts up our entire community.
Since finding its home at Blue Wahoos Stadium in 2012, the Soul Bowl has grown into one of the country’s biggest youth sports events.
For the roughly 50,000 friends and fans who have cheered from the stands, it’s a living testament to the shared belief that our community spaces, like the Maritime Park, are about more than just a ballpark. They are places where future leaders are inspired and neighborhood bonds are strengthened.
Community Spotlight Moment: Lumon May presents Quint Studer with the Soul Bowl Community Award.
Fair Play in the Sunshine: A dedicated referee raises a steady hand amid the lively fray of SYSA Tigers and Rattlers young athletes.
Youthful Tackle in the Trenches: A SYSA Tiger lunges with heart-pounding determination to wrap up a fleet-footed Rattler.
5 Questions with Creatives
Erika Young
Erika Young is a local ceramic artist, pottery instructor and the owner of Erika Ceramics. From tableware to tumblers and vases to ring dishes, Young creates beautiful pieces out of stoneware clay.
Her work blends modern minimalism with an earthy warmth and is characterized by natural hues and textures. All of Young’s pieces are fired in her home studio kiln right here in Pensacola.
You can find her work online at erikaceramics.co or at Palafox Market South most Saturdays. Her pieces will also soon be available at Ume Salon & Apothecary on Garden Street beginning in November.
To keep up to date and check out more of her work, you can follow Young at @erikaceramics on Instagram.
Let’s start with you telling me a little bit about yourself and your professional background. I’m a ceramic artist and pottery instructor based in Pensacola, where I create small-batch pottery under the name Erika Ceramics. My work centers on minimal, functional designs that are intentionally subdued but carry just enough detail to draw you in. Each piece is thoughtfully made with the goal of creating something quietly intriguing that is also meant for everyday use. I also teach pottery workshops through Erika Ceramics and wheel-throwing classes through First City Art Center. I absolutely love getting to share this craft with our community.
My husband and I moved to Pensacola at the beginning of 2020. It was a choice between mountains or the beach, and we ended up at the beach. What started as a few years by the coast has turned into almost six years, and along the way, we’ve found such a strong sense of community here.
Before ceramics, I studied accounting and worked in that field for several years. My first two years of college were spent in art school, so in many ways this feels like coming full circle, returning to something creative with a deeper appreciation this time around. I also spent time living in Sicily, where pottery and craftsmanship are part of everyday life. The Italian idea of ‘la bella figura,’ savoring moments and making every day as beautiful as it can be, has stayed with me and continues to influence how I approach my work.
How did you get interested in creating?
I’ve always felt drawn to making things by hand, but pottery found me at a time when I was craving something slower and more tactile. I signed up for a class at a local community studio here in Pensacola and immediately fell in love with the process. There is something grounding about shaping
By Nicole Willis
clay and watching it transform. Pottery asks you to be present, patient and open to the unexpected. What began as a creative outlet very quickly became a way of life for me.
What inspires or influences your art?
I’m inspired by quiet, everyday moments—the kind that can be easy to overlook but bring a sense of calm when noticed. My work is influenced by natural textures, muted tones and subtle details that keep each piece feeling considered and timeless. I’m drawn to the idea of creating beauty in the smallest details and hope each piece encourages a slower, more intentional way of living.
Can you take me through your creative process and describe what goes into creating one of your pieces?
When I’m first designing a piece, it usually starts with an idea. If I’m away from the wheel, I’ll sketch a few versions to reference later, but if it’s a throwing day, I’ll make several variations to see what feels right. I like to live with those test pieces for a while, using them myself to see how they function and if any adjustments are needed. Once a design feels right, I throw in small batches of about 10 to 20 pieces at a time, keeping each one consistent but still slightly unique. The process is slow and intentional from start to finish, which is what makes them feel so personal. Each piece takes about five weeks to move through all the stages from drying, firing, glazing, firing again and then being ready for use.
What are some of your most popular pieces?
My travel tumblers and holiday tree sets are my most popular pieces, but my tumblers are consistently one of my most popular items. I went through three rounds of testers before I landed on the final design, and I’ve been obsessed ever since. They’re functional, giftable and have become a staple in my collection. The holiday tree sets are another favorite. These small, hand-thrown trees look beautiful in holiday tablescapes or on mantles.
By Nicole Willis
Epilepsy Alliance Florida’s Annual Chili Cook-Off
Nothing says fall quite like a warm bowl of homemade chili, especially when it is for a good cause. The Epilepsy Alliance Florida (EAF) Annual Chili Cook-Off will return to The Handlebar in downtown Pensacola on November 23 from 4 to 7 pm.
This beloved event promises an afternoon filled with fun, flavor, live music, raffles and community.
This annual fundraiser directly supports EAF, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping and supporting individuals and families affected by epilepsy. Through programs, education and direct support services, the EAF works to empower those living with epilepsy and raise awareness about the condition across the state.
The annual chili cookoff will be held at The Handlebar, located at 319 N. Tarragona St. The Handlebar has a long history of hosting chili cook-offs, and since reopening in 2022, the space has proudly continued the tradition to benefit EAF.
This fan-favorite event features some of the city’s best chili, along with tasty brews and and live entertainment—all in the name of
Guests can expect a friendly competition among local cooks and chili enthusiasts with a wide variety of
Photos courtesy of The Epilepsy Alliance Florida
recipes to sample—from mild and savory to spicy and bold, including beef, vegetarian and other specialty chilis.
Tasting passes are $20 and include unlimited chili samples, as well as access to a full evening of entertainment.
“No one has ever left hungry,” EAF Community Resource Specialist Michele Lamar-Acuff said. “The $20 tasting pass includes chili, a beer, live music and a great afternoon.”
Guests will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite chili at the event, helping decide who dishes up the tastiest chili in town. The event will also feature performances by local rock band The Ramblers, who will keep the energy high as tasters make their rounds.
A series of raffles will also be held during the event, including a 50/50 raffle with prizes like original artwork by Alan Shaw and much more.
Guests are invited to wear their favorite plaid outfits and step on stage for a retro homecoming-style photo—a beloved tradition that has become a hallmark of the cook-off.
Between the raffles, music and, of course, the chili, there is plenty of fun to be had at the event.
“Some people have still never been in the new Handlebar,” Lamar-Acuff said. “I think it is a great time to see it and have fun!”
Established in 1971 as a not-for-profit 501(c)(3), EAF is dedicated to supporting those impacted by epilepsy by confronting the spectrum of challenges created by seizures. EAF is a founding member of the Epilepsy Alliance America, providing a variety of services to individuals and families, including advocacy and counseling, education and prevention, direct medical and neuropsychological services, as well as other programs regardless of financial situation or socioeconomic status.
EAF’s annual Chili Cook-Off has a history of helping the organization succeed in its mission of supporting individuals impacted by epilepsy. Proceeds from this year’s event will help EAF continue its programs and services for people impacted by epilepsy across the state.
Whether you are a chili fanatic, a music fan or simply looking for a unique way to spend a Saturday evening, the EAF Annual Chili Cook-Off is a perfect opportunity to support a meaningful cause while enjoying some fall fun.
Tasting passes may be purchased at the door, though guests are encouraged to buy in advance online at subscribepage.io/ chilicookoff.
To learn more about Epilepsy Alliance Florida and its ongoing work, visit epilepsyalliancefl.org.
Winterfest Wonderland Twinkling Lights and Trolley Delights
By Morgan Cole
Kicking off November 21 and running through Christmas Eve, Pensacola’s beloved Winterfest event series will return, transforming downtown Pensacola into a winter wonderland featuring festive trolley tours, holiday performances, thousands of dazzling lights and more.
Established in the 90s as a neighborhood gathering and trolley ride, Winterfest has grown to become a month-long annual tradition best known for its trolley performance tours, where guests hop aboard decorated trolleys and experience a series of interactive performances along a two-mile route with a cast of Christmas characters.
This cherished annual celebration brings family-friendly fun and holiday cheer to downtown Pensacola with live performances, an Elf Parade, interactive trolley tours, Santa and his reindeer and a myriad cast of characters.
“We look forward to bringing holiday magic to the Gulf Coast every year and this will be our biggest, most spectacular Winterfest ever,” Winterfest Founder Denise Daughtry said.
Santa and his friends will visit Winterfest on select nights beginning November 21 to welcome the arrival of the Winterfest Express
Electric Train to downtown Pensacola. This kid-sized train seats 24, and will run downtown each night of Winterfest throughout the Christmas season. Tickets are $5 per-person, and can be purchased online through the Winterfest website.
“This year we’re adding two new trolley tours, starting with the Peanuts Tour, where kids (and kids at heart) can team up with Charlie Brown and friends on a quest to discover the true meaning of the season and search for the perfect tree,” Winterfest Performance Tours Coordinator River Dakota said. “Couples are also in for a treat this year aboard the Mistletoe Magic Tour—a romantic, musical journey filled with laughter, champagne and timeless holiday hits from legends like Elvis and Eartha Kitt.”
Photos courtesy of Winterfest
Winterfest offers opportunities to have your photo taken with Santa and the Grinch, ride on the Polar Express and many more holiday themed festivities. Seasonal extras include nightly street theater on the historic courthouse steps and a life-sized gingerbread house rest stop, complete with hot cocoa and fresh-baked gingerbread cookies.
This year’s festivities will once again include the popular Elf Parade on November 28 at 2 pm, providing an opportunity for the entire family to join in the fun as hundreds of revelers riding strollers, skateboards and wagons to follow Santa on a merry path through downtown Pensacola.
During the parade lineup, Santa himself will host a jolly costume contest— awarding prizes for Biggest elf ears, best costume, best-decorated stroller, best-decorated wagon, ugliest sweaters and most festive skateboarder. Santa will announce the costume contest winners from each category just before the parade rolls out, and each winner will lead their section of the parade.
Also new this year—to celebrate the return of Snoopy and the Peanuts gang—is a special contest and Elf Parade group for the best dressed and decorated dog in a stroller. The winner will march at the head of the section with Snoopy.
“What started as a small community tradition has grown into a beloved celebration that draws families from across the region to downtown Pensacola. This year’s event will be our biggest and most spectacular Winterfest ever—filled with new experiences, dazzling lights and the joyful spirit that makes downtown Pensacola shine during the holidays,” Daughtry said.
This year’s Winterfest is set to be bigger, brighter and more magical than ever, offering a full season of magic, memories and holiday joy for all ages.
Winterfest tours and photos with Santa take place in Plaza Wonderland at the corner of Government Street and Palafox Place. Snow and music starts at 5:30 pm on Fridays and 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday on all tour nights.
Tickets are on sale now, and can be purchased online at pensacolawinterfest.org. Prices for performance tours and photo sessions vary by date, so be sure to check out the calendar for details.
of this year’s new and returning performance tours.
Polar Express Tour
November 21, 23, 29 & 30
December 5–7, 12, 14 & 19-24
This magical tour immerses you in the classic story of The Polar Express with visits from your favorite characters. The tour begins with a musical show on the courthouse steps, where tap-dancing servers will give everyone a cup of hot cocoa. The conductor of the Polar Express will lead everyone aboard an open-air tram to embark along a 25-minute journey to a life-size steam engine. During the ride, you’ll be delighted by musical performances and exciting effects along the way. Tickets start at $15 for adults and $9 for kids.
The Scrooge Tour
December 21, 22, 23 & 24
For this 25-minute tour, the Scrooge tour takes you through the classic tale of A Christmas Carol, where guests will encounter the stingy businessman Ebenezer Scrooge, his dead business partner Jacob Marley and the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future. Experience this spooky Christmas tale as you, along with Ebenezer, learn to hold Christmas in your heart and keep it all the year. Tickets start at $20 for adults and $16 for kids.
The Grinch’s Merry Match
November 21, 23, 28, 29 & 30
December 5–7, 12, 14 & 19–24
Feel your heart grow three sizes larger when you join the Grinch’s Merry Match. Hop aboard the Grinch’s brand-new trolley and sing along to classic Christmas songs as you find yourself at the heart of a timeless love story. The Grinch’s Merry Match tour will introduce you to a cast of classic Seussian characters such as Thing 1 and Thing 2, the Mayor of Whoville, Martha May Whoveir and, of course, the Grinch himself. Tickets start at $20 for adults and $9 for kids.
From twinkling lights to trolley delights, here’s a highlight
Mistletoe Magic
November 23 & 30
December 7 & 14
Brand new this year, this dazzling experience is led by the charming guide Bing Crosby, who will take you on a musical tour into a world of your favorite holiday hits. This tour is perfect for couples who want to cozy up and sip champagne under the mistletoe and sing along to their favorite seasonal sensations with actor-singers portraying icons like Elvis Presley, Eartha Kitt, Nat King Cole, Brenda Lee and more. Tickets start at $16 for adults and $13 for kids.
The Peanuts Tour
November 21, 23, 29 & 30
December 5–7, 12, 14 & 19–24
Join Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang as they search for the perfect Christmas tree. As you journey through festive forests and snowy streets, you’ll discover plenty of Christmas cheer and adventure. Perhaps you, and even Charlie Brown too, will find out what makes Christmas the happiest time of the year. Tickets prices start at $15 for adults and $9 for kids.
Pensacola’s favorite arts and culture festival will return for its 12th year, bringing an eclectic mix of events celebrating art, music, theatre and more.
The annual Foo Foo Festival will bring 12 days of artistic events and cultural happenings to the downtown streets October 30 through November 11. From grand productions to immersive, small-scale experiences, Foo Foo Fest offers a vibrant lineup of creative performances and can’t-miss events.
This year, the ACE-funded festival highlights 10 new grant recipients, including 309 Punk Project, Friends of Downtown, Japan-America Society of Northwest Florida, Jazz for Justice, Night Moves Inc., PenArts, Pensacola Little Theatre, Pensacola Opera, Pensacola State College and the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra. Each grant-funded event offers something unique, showcasing the talent of our local arts community.
Alongside the grant recipients, Foo Foo Fest also features an exciting lineup of Friends of Foo Foo events—local partners hosting their own artsy, fun-filled happenings that align perfectly with the spirit of the fest.
Whether you’re brand new to Foo Foo or already have your annual favorites, this year’s lineup offers a little something for everyone. Here’s a rundown of this year’s grant-funded events, as well as a few of our returning favorites. For complete details, visit foofoofest.com.
Friends of Downtown present Afterburn
October 30 to November 10
Friends of Downtown will present Afterburn, an aerial art installation that will fly high above Intendencia Street in historic downtown Pensacola. Friends of Downtown Pensacola has enlisted world-renowned artist Tomislav Topic to create this colorful, dynamic new addition to Pensacola’s cultural scene. Afterburn (the title is a nod to Pensacola’s Blue Angels demonstration flight team) is powered by wind and light to shift and move with the breeze, allowing viewers to experience art in a personal, ever-changing way. This unique piece of public art is free and will offer an immersive experience for visitors to enjoy, photograph and share.
Photos courtesy of Foo Foo Festival
Pensacola Little Theatre presents Somebody to Love
October 30 to November 10
Somebody to Love is a psychedelic, immersive reimagining of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, adapted and arranged by Ashley Simmons, the creative force behind Pensacola Little Theatre’s 2022 Foo Foo Fest experience, Unrequited. Set to the electrifying sounds of 1960s rock, this production blends Shakespeare’s whimsical romance with the music of Jefferson Airplane, The Zombies, The Kinks and more. Audiences will be swept into a world of fairy mischief, star-crossed lovers and groovy rebellion as they wander through the Clark Family Cultural Center, where reality and enchantment blur in a haze of love, laughter and rock ‘n’ roll.
309 Punk Project’s HalloZine Festival
October 30 to 31
309 Punk Project will present HalloZine Fest, a two-day interactive celebration of zine culture and DIY art that invites attendees to explore independent publishing and punk-inspired creativity that highlights Pensacola’s vibrant underground arts scene. HalloZine Fest will feature zine exhibitions, hands-on workshops and artist talks by prominent zine artists Alex Wrekk (Stolen Sharpie Revolution), Julia Gorton (Beat It! zine) and Julia Arredondo (Vice Versa Press). The event concludes with a Halloween party and costume contest at the legendary venue, The Handlebar, featuring a DJ and dark wave, postpunk and goth vibes.
Japan-America Society of Northwest Florida presents HizashiCon
October 31 to November 2
Experience the vibrant pop culture of Japan at HizashiCon’s three days of music, cosplay and anime. On Friday, October 31, a concert at The Rex Theater will feature Vocaloid and Utaite singers, video game musicians and a Visual Kei star straight from Nagoya, Japan. November 1 marks the start of the highly anticipated HizashiCon convention. Bring your best cosplay or favorite fandom t-shirt for hours of panel programming, Maid Café performances, the cosplay contest, idol festival and J-Fashion show. Gamers, young and old, are invited to participate in video game tournaments scheduled throughout the event in the game room. This year also features a dedicated Artist Alley and newly expanded Vendor Hall. Finally, meet the voices of some of your favorite characters in our Guest Hall. After the convention closes, the party keeps going over at The Handlebar where a talented lineup of nerdcore artists will dance the night away with themed drinks and good vibes.
Pensacola State College presents Wandering Without Purpose
October 30 to November 10
Pensacola State College (PSC) will present Wandering Without Purpose, an art exhibit by Relja Penezic and Victoria Jordanova featuring paintings, video art and an interactive sound installation. The free exhibit will run throughout the Pensacola Foo Foo Festival at the Anna Lamar Switzer Gallery on the PSC campus. An artist lecture discussing the exhibited work as well as historical influences and cultural context, including a walk through the exhibition with discussions and Q&A will be held on Tuesday, November 4.
Legal
Services of North Florida presents Jazz for Justice
November 2
Watch downtown Pensacola come alive as Jazz for Justice returns for another unforgettable day of music. As one of Foo Foo Festival’s signature events, this celebration brings together talented jazz musicians, family-friendly activities, great food from local restaurants and food trucks, along with local vendors. Whether you’re dancing or taking it easy in the VIP area, you’ll be part of something bigger. Your participation supports Legal Services of North Florida in their mission to make justice accessible for all. Free and open to the public, Jazz for Justice is music with meaning. This year, Jazz for Justice will present a lineup of nationally recognized jazz talents, including Preservation Hall Brass Band, Bob Bon Vivant and Whiskey & Water.
Pensacola Symphony Orchestra presents Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons
November 2
From festive birdsong and thunderstorms to harvest celebrations and tranquil snowfall, Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons represents Baroque music at its most vibrant. Join the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra and Music Director Peter Rubardt at The Sanctuary Event Space for a special chamber music concert featuring the timeless masterpiece. Returning to the PSO’s former home from the 1950s and 60s, this special 100th anniversary performance features violin soloists Petra Bubanja, Leonid Yanovskiy, Edward Charity and Grace Kim. General admission tickets are available for $45 online at pensacolasymphony.com.
PenArts presents The Luck
November 4 to 9
The Luck is the professional world premiere of a new musical, written and performed by Nashville’s popular folk/bluegrass band The Lubben Brothers. The Luck tells the adventurous and heartbreaking tale of a group of men who leave their homes and families in New England to face an uncertain future in their search for the elusive gold in California in 1851. Based on a Bret Harte novella, The Luck is a heartfelt and inspiring show filled with music, song and dance that is appropriate for all ages. Joining a cast of nine talented singer/actors, The Lubben Brothers will be playing live for each performance, which will add to the excitement and artistry of Foo Foo Fest 2025. The Luck will run for six performances, and tickets are $20. Ticket information is available at thegordon.org.
Pensacola Opera presents Rock the Runway: Amped
November 5
Pensacola Opera fuses high fashion, iconic rock anthems and operatic power in Rock the Runway: Amped—a bold, immersive event at the historic Saenger Theatre. Featuring custom couture inspired by opera’s greatest heroines, live mashups by the White Tie Rock Ensemble and international opera singers and a catwalk showcasing local boutiques, this electrifying fundraiser will blur the lines between concert and couture. With original orchestrations by Broadway arranger Joseph Brent, Rock the Runway: Amped is a one-night-only spectacle of glam, grit and artistic fusion—unlike anything Pensacola has seen before. Tickets are $40 for balcony seats and $65 for floor seats and are available at pensacolaopera.com.
Night Moves Inc. presents Night Moves
Music Fest
November 8
Returning for its third year, Night Moves Music Fest will again serve as one of the Foo Foo Festival’s anchor events, transforming the waterfront amphitheater at Community Maritime Park into a high-energy celebration of indie and alternative music. Night Moves Music Fest will feature nationally recognized headliners Japanese Breakfast, Dashboard Confessional and Joyce Manor, and local and regional acts like Origami Angel, Wishy, Mspaint, Ben Loftin and The Family, Ego Death, Katie Dineen, Lights with Fire and Marigold’s Apprentice. The one-day festival will feature live music across multiple stages, food trucks, an art garden and a vendor market, all set against Pensacola’s scenic bayfront. Ticket prices range from $89.76 for general admission to $189.96 for VIP. Visit nightmovesfest.com for more info.
Looking for more Foo Foo fun? Mark your calendar for some, or all, of these upcoming Friends of Foo Foo events.
Present Spaces by Artist
Lindsay Keeling
October 30 to November 10
Abstract landscape paintings by local artist Lindsay Keeling will be on display in the Anna Lamar-Switzer Center for Visual Arts Gallery (Bldg. 15) at Pensacola State College from Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to 4 pm. This exhibit is free and open to the public.
DUALITIES: National Sculpture Exhibition
October 30 to November 10
Developed in collaboration with guest curator Jimmy Rhea, this national sculpture exhibit aims to illuminate binary structures by connecting objective forms with subjective perception, emotion and cognition. The exhibit is open to the public through November 10 during regular museum hours. For information, visit pensacolamuseum.org.
Namesake Collection
November 5
Presented by Fiore of Pensacola and Strong Street Studio, this bi-annual event features a series of creative sculptural interpretations made from blown glass and fresh florals handcrafted by local creatives. The event will be held from 4 to 8 pm at Fiore at 405 S. K St. in downtown Pensacola. The open house runs from 4 to 8 pm, and the event kicks off at 6 pm. For details, visit fiore.com.
Back to the Future: Historic Pensacola Adventure Tour
October 30 to November 10
Travel through the historic downtown streets where history collides with pop culture for this immersive journey. Along the way, you’ll uncover Pensacola’s diverse heritage, solve puzzles and complete challenges inspired by the iconic 80s film trilogy Back to the Future. Tours are offered daily. For tickets and information, visit pensacolaghostevents.com
Scan the QR code to view the complete lineup of 2025 Foo Foo Fest events
NOVEMBER COMMUNITY EVENTS
Pensacola Ice Flyers Home Games & Theme Nights
November home games and theme nights at the Pensacola Bay Center. Games begin at 7:05 pm. For tickets and information, visit iceflyers.com.
November 14 - Fayetteville Marksmen vs Ice Flyers; Adult Jersey Giveaway Night
November 15 - Fayetteville Marksmen vs Ice Flyers; Small Dog Race Night
November 26 - Huntsville Havoc vs Ice Flyers; $5 Night
November 29 - Birmingham Bulls vs Ice Flyers; Blue Angels Night
SEC Soccer Tournament
November 2 to 9
The 2025 Southeastern Conference (SEC) Soccer Tournament will be played in Pensacola this November. Top women’s soccer teams competing for the championship title at Ashton Brosnaham Soccer Complex. Pensacola Sports is ecstatic to welcome all friends, family and fans. Join in the fun on Championship Game Day on November 9 at 11:30 am for the Free Fan Fest. The event will feature live music, food trucks and interactive activities for all ages to enjoy. The Ashton Brosnaham Soccer Complex is located at 10370 Ashton Brosnaham Rd. in Pensacola. Admission is free for children ages 5 and younger, and a clear bag policy will be enforced at the event. For tickets and complete details, visit pensacolasports.org.
Creativity Gone Wild Reception at Quayside Gallery
. November 2
Quayside Art Gallery will present the Creativity Gone Wild exhibit and reception on November 2 from 1 to 4 pm. This wildly eclectic view of flora, fauna and flight in jewelry, batik, glass, fiber, clay, photography and more will be on display daily through November 17 from 11 am to 5 pm. The exhibit showcases local featured artists Laurie Flynn, Marilyn Givens, Mary Jordan, Paula Chmura and Cathy Pascoe, who will also be in attendance at the opening reception. Quayside Art Gallery is located at 17 E. Zaragoza St. in downtown Pensacola. For complete exhibit details, visit quaysidegallery.com.
Monday Night Dog Running Club at Perfect Plain
November 3, 10, 17 & 24
Grab your pup and head to Perfect Plain Brewery on Monday evenings for a brisk run around Perfect Plain Brewery. Runs start at 6 pm, and all levels of runners are welcome. After each run, participants can enjoy $2 off pints of draught beer and free chips and salsa from El Camino Tacos. There is no cost to participate. Perfect Plain is located at 50 E. Garden St. in downtown Pensacola. To learn more about Monday Night Running Club, visit perfectplain.com.
Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival
November 7–9
Considered one of the best-regarded and most popular arts festivals in the United States, the Great Gulfcoast Arts Festival will return to Seville Square Park in downtown Pensacola November 7, 8 and 9. The three-day, juried art show features more than 200 of the nation’s best painters, potters, sculptors, jewelers, graphic artists, artisans, craftsmen and other artists. Attendees will also enjoy live entertainment, a special children’s area, tasty bites from a variety of food vendors and more. There is no cost to attend, and all ages are welcome. The festival will run from 9 am to 5 pm on Friday and Saturday, and from 9 am to 4 pm on Sunday. Seville Square Park is located at 311 E. Government St. For more information, visit ggaf.org.
Pensacola Symphony Orchestra’s Maestro Rubardt will conduct Haydn’s Symphony No. 102, along with Ralph Vaughan Williams’ string showcase Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis and Dmitri Shostakovich’s First Piano Concerto on November 8 at the Saenger Theatre at 118 S. Palafox Place in downtown Pensacola. The program will also feature guest artist Ilya Yakushev on the piano. In-person and virtual tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online through ticketmaster.com, or in-person at the Saenger Theatre Box Office. Virtual tickets are available online through the Symphony website. The performance begins at 7:30 pm and runs for 120 minutes. For more information, visit pensacolasymphony.com.
Veterans Day Celebration
November 11
Don’t miss the annual Veterans Day celebration at Veterans Memorial Park in downtown Pensacola on November 11. The event will feature exhibitor booths and displays beginning at 9 am, with the official celebration kicking off immediately following the downtown Veterans Day Parade at 11 am. The ceremony will commence with the Pensacola’s Blue Anchor Belles performing their unique threepart harmony World War II-era patriotic music. The ceremony will also include a flyover of two flights of aircraft, a United States Marine Corps color guard presenting the Colors for the playing of our National Anthem and the annual presentation of the Bud Day Award. The guest speaker will be Lee Hansen, a retired U.S. Navy captain and a pioneer in Naval Aviation. For more information, visit veteransmemorialparkpensacola.org.
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Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show
. November 14 to 15
The Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show is one of the most attended events of the year, attracting 150,000-180,000 spectators every year. This two-day event features a worldclass show with aerobatics performed by Pensacola’s own Blue Angels. This event is free and open to the public. Guests are invited to bring their own seating, but paid seating is
also available. The Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show is hosted at Sherman Field on NAS Pensacola at 150 Hase Road. Gates open at 8 am each day, and the Blue Angels will fly around 2 pm. Don’t forget, a REAL IDcompliant form of identification will be required for access to NAS Pensacola. For tickets and information, visit naspensacolaairshow.org.
Pensacola Fall Food Truck Fest
.November 15
Don’t miss this delightful food-filled event celebrating all things food and community. Perfect for foodies of all ages. The annual Pensacola Fall Food Truck Fest will return to the Community Maritime Park on November 15 from 11 am to 7 pm. Showcasing some of the best food trucks in the area, this family-friendly event provides the perfect opportunity to explore some of our city’s most tasty culinary delights all under one roof. The event will also include a food truck tasting and culinary competition, craft vendors, live music, a bounce house and more. Tickets are $5 per-person (+ fees), and kids 12 and under are free. The Community Maritime Park is located at 301 West Cedar St. in downtown Pensacola. For tickets and event details, visit apexshowsandevents.com.
Movie in the Parks
November 18
Santa Rosa County Parks and Recreation is bringing the big screen outdoors with the launch of its new Movie in the Parks program. Families and residents of all ages are invited to enjoy a free showing of The Incredibles on November 18 at 6 pm at the Bagdad Mill Site Park. This new program features a series of family friendly movie nights under the stars at parks throughout Santa Rosa County. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for a fun-filled evening of entertainment. Local food truck vendors will be on-site, and movies will be shown on a large outdoor screen, creating a theater-like experience in the heart of Santa Rosa County’s beloved parks. The Bagdad Mill Site Park is located at 6953 Main St. in Bagdad, FL. For more information, follow Santa Rosa County on social media or visit santarosa.fl.gov/MovieintheParks.
RAIN - A Beatles Christmas Tribute
. . November 19
Come together and share the peace. This special holiday tribute brings the spirit of the season to life with a nostalgic evening of love, joy and timeless music. RAIN – A Beatles Christmas Tribute will feature all of your holiday favorites alongside the legendary sounds of the Beatles. This festive celebration blends the magic of the holidays with the unforgettable music you know and love. This show is perfect for families, friends and Beatles fans of all ages. Come together and share in the peace of the season with RAIN - A Beatles Christmas Tribute. The show will be held at 8 pm on November 19 at the historic Saenger Theatre located at 118 S. Palafox St. in downtown Pensacola. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at axs.com, or in-person at the Saenger Theatre Box Office. For complete show details, visit pensacolasaenger.com.
Gallery Night: Festival of Living Art
November 21
. .
Presented by Publix on the third Friday of each month, Gallery Night Pensacola brings the streets of downtown Pensacola to life with more than 70 art vendors showcasing their work along Palafox Street in downtown Pensacola. Stroll through a vibrant, open-air market filled with local artists and live performances that celebrate Pensacola’s thriving arts scene. This month’s theme—Festival of Living Art—brings a special focus on interactive art displays and unique showcases that bring art to life. Gallery Night runs from 5 to 9 pm, with vendors and activities set up all along Palafox Street in downtown Pensacola. There is no cost to attend, and all ages are welcome. For more information, visit us at gallerynightpensacola.org.
15th Annual Pensacola Beach Turkey Trot
November 27
Taking place on Pensacola Beach on Thanksgiving Day, the Pensacola Beach Turkey Trot is an annual 5k event held to benefit brain cancer research and the Preston Robert Tisch Tumor Center at Duke University. Each year, the Turkey Trot attracts more than 1,000 participants from across the United States for a family-friendly day of competition and fun activities for all ages. The race will kick off at the Casino Beach Boardwalk on Pensacola Beach at 8:30 am. This year’s event will once again feature the Kid’s Turkey Dash, which will kick off just prior to the 5k at 8 am. Prizes and medals will be awarded for the best costume, so be sure to strut your best turkey day attire. Online registration is required in advance to participate in the race. Registration fees are $40 for the 5k run, and $22 for the kids run. To register or learn more about the race, visit pensacolabeachturkeytrot.com.
Mutts
& Mimosas
November 29
.
Grab your fur baby and head to Calvert’s in the Heights for a delightful and creative afternoon at Mutts & Mimosas. Hosted by Wolfgang Pensacola, this unique dog paw painting event celebrates the holiday spirit in a special furry, four-legged kind of way. Wolfgang will provide you and your pup with all the painting materials you need to create your own beautiful Christmas paw paintings together. Don’t miss out on this tail-wagging, paint-splattering, mimosa-sipping holiday extravaganza on November 29 from 11 am to 2 pm. Calvert’s will offer exclusive food and drink specials for the event, including bottomless mimosas. Tickets are on sale now, and cost $40 for one dog, and $60 for two dogs. Get ready to celebrate the season in a uniquely creative way with your canine companions at Mutts & Mimosas. Tickets are $40 for one dog, and $60 for two dogs. Calvert’s in the Heights is located at 670 Scenic Hwy. in Pensacola. For tickets and event details, visit wolfgangparkandbrews.com.
MILITARY MATTERS
AN ARMED FORCES NEWS SECTION
THE 33RD FIGHTER WING’S FIRST F-35 DEPARTS EGLIN AFB
Nomad heritage runs deep at the 33rd Fighter Wing (FW) and July 14, 2011 marked a turning point in the wing’s evolution. On this day, the wing’s first F-35A Lightning II, tail number 080747, arrived at Eglin Air Force Base.
Lt. Col. (Ret.) Eric Smith, Air Force pilot, flew aircraft 747 to Eglin AFB. Smith is currently a Lockheed Martin contract instructor pilot for the Academic Training Center at the 33rd FW-still contributing to the wing’s F-35 training operations.
“Coming into Eglin that first day was pretty exciting. I had the red carpet rolled out and everything, so I taxied right up to the red carpet and was met by the wing commander and local Lockheed rep,” Smith said. “It was warm, but overall, it was a pretty smooth flight bringing 747 in.”
The addition of the F-35 to the 33rd FW and transition to Air Education and Training Command opened the gates to new training opportunities–improving the fighting force and producing pilots trained in the newest fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
After the arrival, Smith pioneered training operations at the 58th Fighter Squadron and helped build the 33rd FW’s F-35 pilot program from the ground up.
“It was an honor to be a small part of something that has had and will continue to have such a big impact on Eglin AFB and the Emerald Coast,” Smith said.
Over the past few months, maintainers have been preparing the 747 for its departure from the 33rd FW to its permanent home at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona.
Due to the climate of the Florida panhandle, lightningmodified jets are more suitable for pilot training, because they are updated to be able to fly within 25 nautical miles of lightning. Older jets without the modification negatively impact the efficiency of training.
“This one and others were never going to be lightningcapable,” Barnett said. “It makes more sense to send these aircraft to Luke, where Arizona has less potential for weather attrition.”
Aircraft 747 could not depart without preparation and the efforts of dozens of Airmen from 33rd Maintenance Group.
“Over the last three months, easily over 100-150 people have touched this airplane,” Barnett explained.
From its arrival until now, 747 flew a total of 1,554 hours and 1,089 sorties.
Advancing technology and streamlined processes are driving the 33rd FW to new levels of performance and readiness.
“747 will forever be a part of our Nomad legacy. But, as former CMSAF Bass often said, ‘what got us here, won’t get us there.’ The aircraft change, we [Airmen] rotate, but Nomad’s always look forward. The future of combat airpower demands it,” 33rd Fighter Wing Commander Col. Dave Skalicky said.
On September 25, the 33rd FW said farewell to 747, but the saying remains true—“Once a Nomad, always a Nomad!”
STORY AND PHOTO BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS REAGAN HARDY, 33RD FIGHTER WING
To Our Veterans: We Salute You!
By Dawn Gresko
Asolemn but special holiday is approaching this month: Veterans Day. From parades to open ceremonies, we’ve made a list of local events that pay tribute to countless men and women who provide service and sacrifice for the common good. Many of these events are run by organizations who also support our veterans, so please check out the websites below to learn how you can help give back to the people we owe much to be thankful for this season.
UWF Veterans Day Observance
When: November 4 from 11:30 am to 1 pm
Where: 11000 University Parkway, UWF Conference Center (Bldg. 22)
Join UWF for a pre-Veterans Day observance event featuring guest speaker, Retired USAF Colonel Scott M. Guilbeault, who served for 30 years and now operates as Pensacola High School’s AFJROTC Senior Aerospace Science Instructor. The event will also highlight current military students sharing how the military helped them as well as a vocal performance by Gaby Carley from the Dr. Grier Williams School of Music. Started by Dr. Lusharon Wiley decades ago, today the event is carried on by UWF Military & Veterans Resource Center (MVRC)–the leading campus advocate for military, dependent and veteran students. Admission is free and everyone is encouraged to attend, but please be sure to mark your attendance online. To RSVP or give to the MVRC cause, visit uwf.edu/veteransday.
Pensacola Beach Veterans Day Parade
When: November 11 from 2 to 3 pm
Where: Pensacola Beach, starting at Via De Luna Drive
Pensacola Beach will host the annual Pensacola Beach Veterans Day Parade organized by Pensacola Elks Lodge 497. The parade launches from Via De Luna Drive and Avenida 10 coming to an end at the Casino Beach Pavilion. Give a big salute to our veterans as they ferry on by in decorated convertible cars and golf carts. This year’s keynote speaker, Retired LCDR Al Cisneros, a decorated Vietnam War veteran, first Hispanic Blue Angels Pilot, and 2025 Texas Aviation Hall of Fame inductee will share his thoughts and experiences. To volunteer or donate, visit pensacolabeachchamber.com.
Pensacola Veterans Day Parade
When: November 11 at 9 am
Where: Spring & Main Street, downtown Pensacola
Come together in showing solidarity and support for those who serve in the annual Pensacola Veterans Day Parade, which starts rolling at the corners of Spring and Main streets and travels along Government and Palafox aptly concluding at Veterans Memorial Park. Sport your best patriotic ensemble and join forces with the crowd as we recognize and remember those who were and remain in service of the country we love. Among the handouts you might find flags and other tokens of patriotism. Register your float or learn more about how you can support the Gulf Coast Veterans Advocacy Council at gcvacflalms.org.
Veterans Day Ceremony
When: November 11 at 11 am
Where: Veterans Memorial Park, downtown Pensacola
After the parade, the celebration continues at Veterans Memorial Park with the Blue Anchor Belles setting off their three-part harmony World War II-era music followed by the McGuire’s Pipe and Drum Band. More sights to see include a flyover by two flights of aircraft, a United States Marine Corps color guard presentation for the playing of our National Anthem and the annual announcement of the Bud Day Award. Retired U.S. Navy Captain Lee Hansen will deliver this year’s keynote address and Paul Entrekin, former president of the Veterans Memorial Park Foundation, will present the Invocation and Benediction. For more ways to get involved or donate, check out veteransmemorialparkpensacola.org.
Acupuncture & Wellness of Pensacola
Your Partner in Restoring Health and Vitality
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