SEPTEMBER 2026
The Joy of Travel
SMITH IS HOME
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DAVIS ISLANDS | 618 Luzon Avenue 5 Bed | 5/2 Bath | 5,091 SF | $3,549,000 BG Holmberg 813.220.0643
BELLEVIEW PLACE PENTHOUSE | 8 Palm Terrace #605 3 Bed | 3/1 Bath | 3,680 SF | $3,850,000 Cheri Boudreau Team 727.560.3157
WESLEY CHAPEL | 28524 Picana Lane 5 Bed | 5 Bath | 4,588 SF | $1,425,000 Amanda Wilty 850.686.1000
PINELLAS PARK | 8701 64th Street N 3 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,216 SF | $2,500,000 Christian Sidwell & Jon Smith 415.571.6645
DOWNTOWN ST. PETE | 275 1st Avenue S #1902 2 Bed | 2/1 Bath | 2,371 SF | $2,175,000 Jeremy Grant & Brad Bell 727.273.4080
HARBOUR ISLAND | 450 Knights Run Avenue #1208 3 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,400 SF | $1,295,000 Traci Burns 813.833.7510
GOLFVIEW | 2305 S Bendelow Trail 5 Bed | 4/1 Bath | 4,659 SF | $3,500,000 Krista Maddox & Camille Collier 813.340.0505
RIVERSIDE HEIGHTS | 1308 W Plymouth Street 4 Bed | 4/1 Bath | 3,318 SF | $1,800,000 Jessica Alfonso 813.267.5702
ODESSA | 18907 Lakes Edge Way 4 Bed | 4 Bath | 4,805 SF | $2,000,000 The Wood Team 813.957.3941
TAMPA | ST. PETERSBURG | CLEARWATER | BEACHES | LONDON | 813.839.3800 | SMITHANDASSOCIATES.COM
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T H E S EPTEMBE R TRAVEL ISSU E
EDITOR’S NOTE
Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring. Photo courtesy of Visit Florida.
▲ 12 FLORIDA GETAWAYS Vacations for every passion start here.
10 BAY VOICES
Chris Botti on jazz, cruising and playing at the Clearwater Jazz Holiday!
34 COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS
Tampa Bay pals’ favorite trips.
18 LUXURY CRUISES All aboard your dream vacation!
21 SIP & SAVOR
Happy hours, spritzes + global eats.
▲ 36 ARTS SCENE
Fall’s spectacular exhibits, events.
Adventure awaits
I
s it time to wander and wonder about life? Our Travel issue overflows with fabulous places to visit, luxurious cruises, curated New York City and Paris dream vacays, plus eclectic Florida getaways. Discover what your Tampa Bay neighbors did on their summer vacations (including a musical adventure in Ireland) and plan your next trip. Get a sneak peek at gala season, worldclass music festivals and cultural delights. You might want to book a themed cruise to Italy or join jazz legend Chris Botti’s cruise after my exclusive interview with the musician/composer, who headlines the Clearwater Jazz Holiday Oct. 15. Simplify your trip with our Shop Local travel goodies.
38 BOOKS SCENE
Spooky romance, book clubs/events.
▲ 22 TRAVEL NYC
The Big Apple’s best plays, stays & dining.
26 TRAVEL IRELAND
A local band’s Emerald Isle adventures.
28 BAY GETAWAYS
Tours for every taste, from golf to Greece.
30 TRAVEL FRANCE Paris is for lovers…and foodies!
32 SHOP LOCAL Travel tech & accessories.
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39 LET’S GO
Downtown St. Pete, Hyde Park, Hotel Flor.
40 STYLE
Chris Botti. Photo by @johnabbottphoto.
Fall bling, fashion trends.
42 HAVENS
Tea party collectibles, events.
44 SOCIAL SCENE ON THE COVER: Book a luxury cruise with opulent amenities. Photo courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.
What will you do with your one wild and precious life? Our print (and digital) issue serves up dozens of ideas and places to explore in St. Pete, Hyde Park and beyond. Discover Zubrick Magic Theatre, Hotel Flor, upscale happy hours, international flavors at local restaurants, and tea parties. Be the first to know where to go. Follow us on Facebook and subscribe to Bay here: tinyurl.com/3ypbk755
Nanette Wiser, Bay Editor
NEW AFRICAN MASQUERADES ARTISTIC INNOVATIONS AND COLLABORATIONS
A M A G A Z I N E O F T H E TA M PA B AY T I M E S Bay is published monthly by Times Publishing Co. and delivered to Tampa Bay Times subscribers in select neighborhoods in Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties. SEPTEMBER 2026
Copyright 2026. Vol. 19, No. 9.
GENERAL MANAGER KERRY O’REILLY | koreilly@tampabay.com EDITOR NANETTE WISER | nwiser@tampabay.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR LISA SCHILLINGER | lschillinger@tampabay.com Graphic Designer Nausheen Syed-Ali Copy Editor Erin Murphy Imaging & Production Brian Baracani Reach more than 74,969 affluent adults in Tampa Bay by advertising in Bay magazine. For rates and deadlines, please email sales@tampabay.com. To purchase a single copy or reprints of an article, please scan this code.
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To view select articles from Bay magazine online, please visit tampabay.com/bay.
Life is better with Bay!
ON VIEW NOW New African Masquerades: Artistic Innovations and Collaborations is organized by the New Orleans Museum of Art, in partnership with Musée des Civilisations noires in Dakar, Senegal, and received generous support from the National Endowment for the Humanities.
Hervé Youmbi, Cameroonian (active in Douala), Tso Scream Mask, Visages de masques (IX) series, 2015–2023. Wood, pigment, fiber, beads, textile, glue, velvet and cotton fabric, silk embroidery, horse-hair. Collection of the New Orleans Museum of Art, museum purchase, Robert P. Gordy Fund, 2023.38.1-.7.
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Luxury
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A TIMELESS LEGACY ALONG THE BAY Waldorf Astoria Residences St. Petersburg will introduce a new era of luxury to its bayfront locale. From the iconic Peacock Alley to a resort-style amenity deck with dual infinity pools and a curated Wellness Spa, every space is crafted for unforgettable moments. Rooted in the rich legacy of Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts and inspired by the vibrant spirit of St. Petersburg, the extraordinary property will celebrate a blend of timeless elegance with the essence of Florida’s iconic waterfront lifestyle.
WALDORFASTORIAISAREGISTEREDTRADEMARKOFHILTONINTERNATIONALHOLDINGLLC,ANAFFILIATEOFHILTONWORLDWIDEHOLDINGSINC.(“HILTON”).THERESIDENCESARENOTOWNED,DEVELOPED,ORSOLDBYHILTONANDHILTONDOESNOTMAKEANYREPRESENTATIONS,WARRANTIES WALDORFASTORIAISAREGISTEREDTRADEMARKOFHILTONINTERNATIONALHOLDINGLLC,ANAFFILIATEOFHILTONWORLDWIDEHOLDINGSINC.(“HILTON”).THERESIDENCESARENOTOWNED,DEVELOPED,ORSOLDBYHILTONANDHILTONDOESNOTMAKEANYREPRESENTATIONS,WARRANTIES OR GUARANTIES WHATSOEVER WITH RESPECT RESPECTTO TO THE RESIDENCES. RESIDENCES.THE THE DEVELOPER USES THE WALDORF ASTORIA BRAND NAME AND CERTAIN WALDORF ASTORIA ASTORIATRADEMARKS TRADEMARKS (THE “TRADEMARKS”) UNDER A LIMITED, NONEXCLUSIVE, NON-TRANSFERABLE LICENSE FROMHILTON.THELICENSEMAYBETERMINATEDORMAYEXPIREWITHOUTRENEWAL,INWHICHCASETHERESIDENCESWILLNOTBEIDENTIFIEDASAWALDORF ASTORIABRANDEDPROJECTORHAVEANYRIGHTSTOUSETHETRADEMARKS. ORALREPRESENTATIONS UPONAS REPRESENTATIONS OFTHE SELLER.FOR CORRECTREPRESENTATIONS,MAKE REFERENCETOTHIS BROCHUREANDTOTHE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BYSECTION 718.503,FLORIDASTATUTES,TO I N E | SRELIED EPTEM B E R 2 CORRECTLYSTATING 026 8 | B AY M A G A ZCANNOTBE BEFURNISHEDBYASELLERTOABUYERORLESSEE.NOFEDERALORSTATEAGENCYHAS JUDGEDTHEMERITSORVALUE,IFANY,OFTHISPROPERTY.THISISNOTANOFFERTOSELL,ORSOLICITATIONOFOFFERSTO BUY,THECONDOMINIUMUNITSINSTATESWHERESUCH OFFERORSOLICITATIONCANNOTBEMADE.
ARTIST CONCEPTUAL RENDERING
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BAY VO I CE S
Cruising with
Chris Botti By Nanette Wiser
rammy-winning jazz artist Chris Botti is no stranger to Tampa Bay, swinging through town annually to play Ruth Eckerd Hall. But for the first time ever, he will kick off the Clearwater Jazz Holiday’s 2026 season in Coachman Park on Oct. 15, before heading out to play a concert with Sting, whom he has toured with for many years. It’s been a wild international year for the Blue Note Records artist, who loves performing in intimate jazz clubs and larger venues alike. This year, he made stops in Australia, and as always, had a holiday residency in New York City’s famed Blue Note Jazz Club. With a career spanning over three decades, Botti has collaborated with icons including Sting, Paul Simon, Barbra Streisand, Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga, Andrea Bocelli, Herbie Hancock and Yo-Yo Ma and performed on legendary stages around the world. If you’re enthralled by “Italia” and “Paris,” Botti promises to play the songs you love at his Clearwater Jazz Holiday concert as well as acoustic jazz and classic standards from his 2023 “Vol. 1” album. “I turned 60 in 2022, at a time that seemed like a restart for so many things in the world,” Botti said. “I wanted to strip away all the orchestral arrangements and special guests and focus more on my playing, the playing of my band, and these jazz classics that we always love playing onstage.” Botti balances performing with recording, hoping he will be lucky enough to continue touring well into his 70s: “Because, you know, the trumpet’s a very physical instrument. It’s not as physical as being an NBA player where (you have) one ankle injury and you’re out, but it is a real intense workout,” Botti said when asked when he 10 | B AY M A G A Z I N E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
will record again. “With a lot of good fortune, I hope to roll into my 80s and 90s like Doc Severinsen, who is still alive and playing.” As for getting up close and personal with his fans, he’ll embark on his third Chris Botti at Sea cruise Sept. 18-25 with Elvis Costello, Boz Scaggs, Melody Gardot, Candy Dulfer, Josh Groban, Wycliffe Gordon and musical stars from all genres. “(Guests) may think they’re just going to hear a trumpet player and just jazz, but it’s so much more for me, a sophisticated, high-end musical tour. You’ll hear jazz trumpet, classical violin, singers from all genres, opera music and more,” Botti said.
Photo by @johnabbottphoto.
Botti grew up in Corvallis, Oregon. He was influenced by his mother, a concert pianist, and her musical tastes (Elvis and jazz classics). Botti said he was hooked on music and jazz at an early age and never looked back. “My mother cold-called the principal trumpet player in the Portland Orchestra to tutor me and would drive me to (jazz) clubs at 14 to sit and play. (She would say,) ‘You know, my son might wanna play with you,’ and there I was, playing with Ron Steen, (and) I ended (up) performing in his band for years,” he said.
The Chris Botti at Sea III cruise departs Los Angeles Sept. 18. Photo by @johnabbottphoto.
Botti was inspired by the jazz greats, from Miles Davis and Keith Jarrett to Pat Metheny and Brad Mehldau. He points to landmark albums like Davis’ “Kind of Blue,” and works by John Coltrane as models for the kind of “lifestyle” music he set out to make. Talent, practice and moxie (“busking Christmas carols on NYC streets”) plus the early support of Simon and Sting helped Botti rise to the top. “Through some good fortune, I became a studio musician on other people’s record(s), and in 1990, Paul Simon was going on a worldwide tour and always picked his musicians from the studio world first. Someone recommended me, and I was in Paul’s band for eight years, then got the very great break of being in Sting’s band.” Botti loves collaborating on and off the stage and hopes to get back into the studio next year: “It’s so authentic and inspiring,” said Botti, whose “Vol. 1” recording, produced by David Foster, garnered rave reviews. “There’s a cinematic quality that I like to hear in music, and that I’ve found that audiences really love,” he said. “The essence of that remains on this album.” It’s Botti’s clarion, heart-wrenching trumpet that seizes the spotlight throughout “Vol. 1.” He leaves no doubt of his mastery or his ability to speak directly from the soul of the instrument. chrisbotti.com. bottiatsea.com. clearwaterjazz.com
EXPERIENCE THE ALLURE OF
Longboat Key
Craving a Tranquil Escape? Discover the quiet charm of Longboat Key, where coastal elegance meets relaxed luxury, just a short drive away. Nestled between the Gulf and Sarasota Bay, this serene barrier island offers 12 miles of pristine beaches, chef-driven dining, boutique shopping, and endless ways to unwind. Whether it’s paddleboarding at sunrise, exploring nature preserves, or enjoying sunset waterfront dining, Longboat Key is your perfect getaway for a romantic weekend, solo retreat, or luxurious extended stay. Reconnect with what matters. Take advantage of off-season rates. Your peaceful escape is just around the corner.
Zota Beach Resort
For more information or to request a Visitors Guide, call the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce. LongboatKeyChamber.com
941-383-2466
BradentonGulfIslands.com
F LOR I DA G E TAWAYS
Dream escapes
from Amelia Island to the Keys By Nanette Wiser
n the mood for a siesta outside Tampa Bay’s world-class beaches, attractions and resorts? Plan a vacay around your passion, then gather your besties for one of our curated Florida adventures. For the guys, why not plan a golf trip to the PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor, or the exclusive Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach? A road trip is always in season; to help you plan, check out visitflorida.com.
festivals and events for every passion and a world-class resort. Book a trip for the annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival; the Amelia Island Concours luxury automotive showcase; or the fourth annual Amelia Island Cookout, hosted by The
There’s no internet or TVs, just swaying palms and thatched-roof bungalows steps from the sea. Enjoy extraordinary candlelit meals, monthly full moon suppers and a bevy of treatments at SpaTerre. This sanctuary for the senses features transcendent body rituals, meditative beach yoga classes and wellness practices rooted in nature. littlepalmisland.com
CULINARY CUTIES Immerse yourself in upscale food and wine festivals featuring both trending dishes and the best of Florida (and the nation’s) restaurant ISLANDS IN talent. Book now for PARADISE Coastal November’s Ocala living is at its best with Food & Wine Festival at an extravagant escape the World Equestrian to Miami’s Fisher Center, December’s Island. Plan a side trip Palm Beach Food & to Palm Beach’s Worth There is so much to do at Florida state parks! Scuba dive in Devil’s Den (seen here) or explore Old Florida at Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park with a stay at the historic The Lodge at Wakulla Springs. Photo courtesy of Visit Florida. Wine Festival, January Avenue shopping and 2027’s Naples Winter historic district, Marco Wine Festival, February 2027’s South Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. The cookout, Island, or Sanibel Island. Beach Wine & Food Festival, and May held Oct. 15-18, will feature a lineup of 2027’s St. Augustine Food & Wine Festival. islandwide culinary experiences; immersive Amelia Island Nestled off the northeast bit.ly/4huJfvk events designed for food lovers and coast of Florida, Amelia Island offers epicurean travelers; and award-winning SAVOR St. Pete Dubbed the Best Food chefs, including my friend chef Bernard Festival in 2025 by Creative Loafing Tampa Guillas. This luxury foodie festival is a Bay, SAVOR St. Pete returns to Vinoy Park four-day celebration of food, wine, spirits Nov. 7-8 to showcase Tampa Bay chefs and and Southern hospitality led by chef Okan restaurants as well as celebrity chefs Paul Kizilbayir and other world-famous chefs, Wahlberg and Jing Gao. Beyond the bites, pitmasters, mixologists, winemakers and founder Tammy Gail, a breast cancer culinary luminaries from around the survivor, has helped raise more than country. ameliaisland.com $140,000 for local breast cancer initiatives through the festival, and plans to donate Little Torch Key Little Palm Island Resort & another $10,000 this year. savortheburg.com Spa, a Relais & Châteaux exclusive private The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, will host the fourth annual Amelia Island Cookout on Oct. 15-18. retreat, is accessible only by sea or sky. Photo courtesy of Amelia Island. 12 | B AY M A G A Z I N E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
Delray Beach in Palm Beach County. Photo courtesy of Visit Florida.
Little Palm Island. Photo courtesy of Little Palm Island.
EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Book a stay at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort for your Disney eating extravaganza. Embark on a culinary adventure across six different continents in a feast for the senses, now through Nov. 21. Enjoy a delicious meal at Chefs de France or Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya and live music at the Eat to the Beat Concert Series at the America Gardens Theatre, featuring Smash Mouth, Boyz II Men, Tiffany, Grace Potter and The Beach Boys. bit.ly/4wpqwoD
lebargetropicalcruises.com. For a more intimate outing, Key Sailing Charters offers private sails on a 41-foot yacht. siestakeysailing.com
CULTURE & COCKTAILS We like to pair a fabulous restaurant and specialty cocktail with our art exploration journeys, so when our gal pals go to The Dalí Museum, we sip at Gratzzi Italian Grille, while a Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, jaunt starts with Cognac or Parkshore Grill in St. Pete. During St. Pete’s annual SHINE Mural Festival, we hydrate at Sauvignon Wine Locker & American Trattoria. We pair Sarasota’s The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art with dining on St. Armands Circle, and in Miami, we combine a visit to the city’s Wynwood Art District with any of the South Beach fancy restaurants and bars. A visit to Winter Park’s The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art to see the collected works of Louis Comfort Tiffany finds us at The Ravenous Pig or 480N Wine Bar. A visit to the Pérez Art Museum Miami, which features international art of the 20th and 21st centuries, is a must-see.
Indulge your foodie spirit at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort.
FLOWERS & TOWERS Brooker Creek Preserve and the Florida Botanical Gardens are favorites for garden and nature enthusiasts, but if you want to go farther afield, plan a stay and explore Lake Wales’ Bok Tower Gardens, Sarasota’s Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, or Miami’s Vizcaya Museum & Gardens.
COASTAL CHARMERS Looking for a luxury vacation on Florida’s east coast? Miami, Palm Beach and Boca Raton boutique hotels and resorts are luxurious, and accommodations in Ponte Vedra Beach or Jacksonville Beach are equally delightful. On Florida’s west coast, nothing beats Naples’ The Ritz-Carlton or Sarasota’s Siesta Key. Longboat Key’s hotels, restaurants, shops, beaches, cruises, attractions and island culture are exceptional. Plan a luxury stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, or The Resort at Longboat Key Club. Cruise the Gulf on a LeBarge Tropical Cruises outing for a festive evening of live music, tropical cocktails and open-air seating.
Explore St. Armands Key, Longboat Key and Lido Key with a guide from the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce: longboatkeychamber.com Delray Beach Enjoy water sports, shopping, a fab First Friday Art Walk, and oodles of culture at the Pineapple Grove Arts District, the Cornell Art Museum, and the lakeside Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. Wakodahatchee Wetlands is a park with a raised boardwalk that offers views of birds, turtles and alligators. Book a stay at Crane’s Beach House Boutique Hotel & Luxury Villages or The Ray Hotel when you want to catch a show at Arts Garage.
In Floral City, step into Wonderfield Farm & Retreat, where nature and relaxation intertwine in a 66-acre oasis of Old Florida charm and vibrant native flora. Stay in a cozy, fully equipped cottage or a “glamping” (glamorous camping) tent. With the 10,000-plus-acre Flying Eagle Wildlife Management Area as your backyard, you’ll be immersed in a truly unforgettable natural escape. wonderfieldfarm.com
Explore South Florida’s cultural scene with a stop at Miami’s Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. Photo courtesy of Visit Florida.
NATURAL WONDERS Plan to walk, kayak or snorkel in our glorious Florida state parks this fall. Near Florida State University, explore Edward Ball Wakulla SEPTEMBER 2026
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ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS In addition to ZooTampa at Lowry Park, Lakeland’s Safari Wilderness Ranch, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge in Lake Buena Vista and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, you can get up close and personal with dolphins, birds and other wildlife during a VIP all-inclusive experience at Explore the Pineapple Grove Arts District in Delray Beach. Photo courtesy of The Palm Beaches. Orlando’s Discovery Cove. This exclusive offering includes white-glove treatment for up to Springs State Park and book a stay at the eight people with valet parking, elevated historic The Lodge at Wakulla Springs. dining, a cabana stocked with snacks and Wakulla Springs is one of the world’s drinks, breakfast served tableside, a largest and deepest freshwater springs, photographer to capture your special where you can see manatees, alligators moments, an exploration of exclusive and a host of diverse wildlife from a animal habitats with a dedicated riverboat or the diving platform. zoological care expert, and more. floridastateparks.org/wakullasprings. Scuba seaworldparks.com enthusiasts can dive into the captivating world of Devil’s Den Prehistoric Spring, HAPPY HAUNTINGS After summer’s hidden within a 120-foot-wide cave with a comic-con and cosplay events, Halloween constant 72-degree water temperature lovers flock to Busch Gardens’ Howl-Oyear-round. devilsden.com
Scream, Tampa’s SpookEasy ghost tours, WMNF-88.5 FM’s Halloween Ball Oct. 16 and Halloween Rock the Bay on Tampa’s Yacht StarShip Oct. 31, plus ghostly costume events at bars and nightclubs on both sides of the bay. Scream-A-Geddon Six scary parks in one location for horror lovers continue through Nov. 1, with a Biergarten; a reimagined midway now known as Bonzo’s Bizarre; and fan-favorite haunted attractions like Killgore’s 3D Circus, Bloodwater Bayou, Breach, Ravenhill Asylum, Zombie Paintball Assault and Demon’s Revenge, all open nightly at 7 p.m. in Dade City. screamageddon.com SPIRITS of St. Petersburg This fall, Brandy Stark relaunches the St. Petersboo Haunted History Walking Ghost Tour, an exclusive experiential tour with paranormal investigators. Oct. 4 is the third annual Spookyzarre! makers market at the ArtLofts above Florida CraftArt. There will also be a Full Moon Walking Tour Oct. 13. stpetersboo.com
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BAY & RIVERFRONT CONDOS STARTING AT $1 MILLION Sales Gallery Open Monday–Saturday | Sunday by Appointment 100 E. Madison Street, Suite 100, Tampa, FL 33602 | 813-686-7188 | LiveONETampa.com Images are artist’s renderings and may not represent the final building. Furnishings and fixtures are for display purposes and are not included with the residence. Actual improvements, including, recreational facilities and amenities, may vary from those shown and views may not be available from all units. The project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation requires prior qualification.
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All aboard from Florida,
your dream vacation!
Cruise to Split, Croatia, in a luxury liner for a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. Photo courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.
By Kathy Saunders avvy travelers know now is the time to lock down plans for cruising in 2027. We checked in with several luxury cruise lines to see where they are sailing next year and how they have elevated their first-class accommodations. Some are launching new ships and new onshore and offshore excursions as well as new destinations. Book one of these fabulous fine liners departing from Florida.
Private dining aboard the Oceania Allura. Photo courtesy of Oceania Cruises.
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OCEANIA CRUISES Oceania Cruises’ newest luxury cruise ship, the Oceania Sonata, built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, will launch in August 2027 with up to 1,390 guests and 855 crew members on its maiden voyage from Rome to Trieste, Italy. Along with fine dining, the ship is designed with ultraluxury accommodations, including four two-bedroom owner’s suites on the four corners of the aft upper decks. Let’s go! Depart Miami for Los Angeles for a 16- or 29-day cruise over the holidays from Dec. 6, 2027-Jan. 4, 2028, or Dec. 19, 2027-Jan. 4, 2028. oceaniacruises.com SILVERSEA CRUISES Silversea Cruises is now booking voyages for its newest ultraluxury sister ships, the Silver Ray and the Silver Nova. Boasting one of the highest space-to-guest ratios in the industry, Silversea’s luxury Nova Class ships feature massive glass walls, all-suite accommodations, expansive decks for improved sightseeing, and indulgent spas. Both ships feature private balconies and butler service.
Let’s go! Depart Miami for a 76-day voyage through Bridgetown, Barbados; Rio de Janeiro; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Valparaíso, Chile, from Jan. 6-March 23, 2027, on the Silver Nova. Or embark on a 12-day cruise through the Caribbean Feb. 7-19, 2027, on the Silver Ray. silversea.com NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest liner, the Norwegian Luna, is the second ship in the company’s Prima Plus Class, offering an exclusive key card enclave within the ship with suites and dedicated dining. The ship also offers family-friendly amenities, including the Aqua Slidecoaster; an excursion to the Bahamas’ Great Stirrup Cay; and the “ELTON: A Celebration of Elton John” tribute show. Let’s go! Depart Miami for a seven-day round-trip Caribbean cruise through Harvest Caye, Belize; Cozumel, Mexico; and Roatán, Honduras, March 20-27, 2027, or spend the holidays on a sevenday trip to Great Stirrup Cay and the Dominican Republic Dec. 26, 2027–Jan. 2, 2028. ncl.com
THE RITZ-CARLTON YACHT COLLECTION The Ilma, the second vessel in The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, has 224 intimate suites designed to resemble boutique hotel rooms rather than cruise cabins. Each suite has a private terrace and a personal Suite Ambassador to assist passengers. Forget buffet lines: The Ilma’s restaurants offer a la carte menus curated by Michelin-starred chefs. Let’s go! Depart Miami on a seven-night round trip sailing April 4, 2027, with stops in Grand Turk’s crystal-clear waters for diving and water sports, followed by Dominican culture in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; sunbathing on Bimini’s white-sand beaches; and strolling Old Town Key West. ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES Privacy and sophistication are highlights of the Regent Seven Seas Splendor, which boasts 373 suites with private balconies, including the Regent Suite, an opulent space overlooking the bow of the ship. The suite includes a primary bedroom with a walk-in closet, a master bath with gilded golden accents, an additional bedroom and more. Book this suite if you can!
Exceptional décor and culinary excellence are a couple of the Ilma’s signature amenities. Photo courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.
Let’s go! Depart Miami for a 42-night voyage to Tahiti, setting sail Jan. 12, 2027. The Splendor has stops in Mexico, Belize, Honduras, the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Costa Rica, Colombia, Panama, Hawaii and Bora Bora on its way there. Or celebrate the holidays on a 16-night journey to San Francisco Dec. 20, 2027, with sightseeing in the Caribbean,
Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico and during daytime passage through the Panama Canal. rssc.com CUNARD Cunard’s majestic Queen Elizabeth calls Miami its winter homeport, offering luxurious voyages through the Caribbean for nine to 28 nights. During the summer months, the ship sails through Alaska. The sister ship to Queen Victoria, the Queen Elizabeth features an art deco interior designed as an homage to the golden age of ocean travel aboard two like-named ships that came before it, the original Queen Elizabeth and the Queen Elizabeth 2. The ship pays tribute to its British roots, serving pub fare and daily afternoon tea. Accommodations include the Queens Grill and Princess Grill suites and Britannia staterooms. Let’s go! Depart Miami Nov. 25, 2027, for a 14-night eastern Caribbean voyage stopping in St. Thomas, St. Kitts, Grenada, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Maarten and Tortola. cunard.com
Enjoy luxury entertainment and dining when you cruise on the Oceania Allura. Photo courtesy of Oceania Cruises. SEPTEMBER 2026
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A Surreal Soirée Supporting The Dalí
Explore Italy with Ponant Explorations. Photo courtesy of Ponant Explorations.
Luxury themed cruises Sat, Oct 24 | 8 PM Don't miss a dazzling evening of surreal glamour as the Museum comes alive with live entertainment, open bars, delectable bites, gallery access, unexpected delights and more.
CELEBRITY CRUISES Celebrity Cruises has amped up its Celebrity Summit ship to better accommodate fans with more performance venues and renovated staterooms and suites. Departing from Tampa starting in early 2027 are two signature cruises: The Jazz Cruise and The Smooth Jazz Cruise. The Jazz Cruise Billed as “straight-ahead jazz heaven,” this cruise departs Jan. 17, 2027, from Tampa to Cozumel, Mexico; Belize; and Costa Maya, Mexico. Hosted by renowned jazz pianist Emmet Cohen, the cruise’s lineup includes Dee Dee Bridgewater, Christian McBride, Kurt Elling and Cécile McLorin Salvant, among many others. Many musicians, including trumpet players, trombonists and pianists, are on the list of featured performers. thejazzcruise.com The Smooth Jazz Cruise Called “the greatest party at sea,” the Celebrity Summit launches twice from Tampa in 2027 (Jan. 31 and Feb. 7) to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, and Grand Cayman. Grammy-winning jazz bassist Marcus Miller and famous jazz saxophonist Boney James will host the cruises. Headliners include Brian Culbertson, Jonathan Butler, Candy Dulfer, Kirk Whalum, Peter White, Rick Braun and many others. thesmoothjazzcruise.com FOODIE FUN Chefs Making Waves Billed as “a food, wine and spirits festival at sea,” the Chefs Making Waves cruise on the Norwegian Jewel features an array of celebrity chefs, including hosts Carla Hall and Michael Symon, joined by Kardea Brown, Tiffany Derry, Duff Goldman, Marcus Samuelsson and others. The four-night cruise from Miami to Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic departs April 20, 2027. chefsmakingwaves.com/home
Scan for info
TheDali.org/Suenos
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ITALY, MI AMORE Venice & the Dolomites cruise Jimmy “Chip” Barker, owner of Oceans & Lands Luxury & Expedition Travel, is planning a July 2028 journey around the Festa del Redentore festival in Venice, Italy. “Nearly 450 years later, that tradition continues when (crowds) gather to celebrate with elaborately decorated boats, (a) waterfront feast and fireworks displays over St. Mark’s Basin,” Barker said. oceansandlands.com Made in Italy cruise Ponant Explorations invites travelers aboard the Le Boréal to explore the cultural heart of Italy (Tuscany, Venice) and enjoy exclusive experiences with iconic Italian fashion, jewelry and tableware houses (Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Brioni, Pomellato and Ginori 1735). They include private receptions in the sumptuous palazzi of Florence and Venice (cocktails at Bottega Veneta’s Palazzo Soranzo Van Axel), conversations with Italy’s finest artisans and live demonstrations of their expertise. The luxurious 11-day journey is from Sept. 8-18, 2027. us.ponant.com
SIP & SAVO R
Spritzes, happy hour & pumpkin spice By Nanette Wiser If you’re bored with your summer sips, broaden your horizons with Italian spritzes, luxe happy hours and new flavors. Trending now is everything banana, from M&M’s new banana nut bread flavor to banana coladas, and yes, it’s also pumpkin spice season. Shipyard Brewing Company’s Pumpkinhead ale is crisp and refreshing, with delightful aromatics and a subtle spice flavor that includes cinnamon and nutmeg. A proper pint of Pumpkinhead is served in a glass rimmed with sugar and cinnamon and is often accompanied by a shot of spiced rum or vanilla vodka. The beverage is best experienced at Sea Dog Brewing Co. in Treasure Island, a fun spot to watch football and enjoy brunch. seadogbrewing.com
Nothing says Halloween like Pumpkinhead ale. Photo courtesy of Shipyard Brewing Company.
Seasonal spritzes At this summer’s Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, Colorado, reimagined spritzes wowed the crowd, from limoncello and club soda with a mint sprig to Brucato Orchards amaro, made with California apricots, walnuts, citrus and spice; mixed with Fever-Tree grapefruit soda mixer; and garnished with a grapefruit wedge. Local author Deb Carson loves Italicus — a bergamot liqueur she mixes with lemon juice and club soda. For Italian spritzes with
a twist, visit St. Pete’s Bonu’ Taverna Italiana. Try the delicate, floral Hugo with hints of pear and lychee, or the earthy Cynar with a nutty aftertaste. While you’re there, expand your cocktail horizon with a Viola, which combines butterfly pea flower tea-infused Empress 1908 indigo gin with Combier pamplemousse liqueur, honeycomb syrup and fresh lemon juice. Prego! bonutaverna.online It’s 5 o’clock somewhere All the pretty people in Tampa Bay flock to sophisticated happy hours at local hot spots, from Hyde Park’s Meat Market to St. Pete’s Flûte & Dram, whose charcuterie and live music make it doubly merry. The Capital Grille’s happy hour, Monday-Friday from 3-6 p.m., offers $10 specialty cocktails (Peach Bourbon Smash), $8 boutique wines, and a lounge menu featuring oysters casino and petite fillet sandwiches with truffle aioli and cabernet onion jam on a toasted brioche bun. thecapitalgrille.com Tori Bar’s happy hour, Monday-Saturday from 4-6 p.m., is extraordinary, as is its regular Asian-inspired cocktail menu, especially the Samurai Manhattan, miso Old-Fashioned or shishito pepper margarita (Astral Blanco tequila, orange liqueur, shishito pepper wasabi syrup, lime juice). toribartampa.com Eddie V’s Prime Seafood holds its happy hour Sunday-Saturday from 4-6:30 p.m. Its $10 hand-shaken cocktails, $9 curated wines by the glass and teasers menu (steak tartare, South African lobster) are divine, as is the evening jazz. eddiev.com. In Indian Shores, Salt Rock Grill’s early bird supper menu and happy hour wines, beers, sangrias and cocktails with a view mesmerize Monday-Friday from 4-5:30 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday from 12-5:30 p.m. saltrockgrill.com
Glorious cocktails, a fab happy hour and delicious bar bites make for a perfect late afternoon at The Capital Grille. Photo courtesy of The Capital Grille.
International
delights
If you love to travel, explore Tampa Bay’s global fare at these local restaurants. Asian Hawkers Asian Street Food, Nori Thai, Pin Wok & Bowl, Savanh of Laos, The Glass Noodle Brazilian Terra Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse, Texas de Brazil Caribbean Calabash, Island Flavors and Tings Cuban Bodega Cuban & Spanish Columbia Restaurant Greek Athenian Garden, Hellas Restaurant & Bakery, Mythos Greek Bistro Indian Flames Indian Cuisine, Twisted Indian Italian BellaBrava, Forbici Modern Italian, Gratzzi Italian Grille, Mazzaro’s Italian Market, OLIVIA, Pia’s Trattoria Japanese Rio Izakaya, Sekushi Sushi, Sushi Rock Grill Mediterranean Allelo, Bayshore Mediterranean Grill, Mio’s Grill & Café, Predalina, Sola Bistro & Wine Bar, The Pearl Mexican Agave Social, Casa Tina, Quiote Tequilaria, VIP Mexican Spanish Lumbre Swedish The Pirate Candy Shop Turkish Bosphorous Turkish Cuisine
SEPTEMBER 2026
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TRAV E L N YC
Big Apple By Mark Orwoll
fall fun
With anxiously awaited new Broadway productions, sophisticated jazz, buzzy restaurants and hip new hotels, the Big Apple has never been more attractive for a long weekend escape or an extended getaway. Things get hot when New York cools down. The fall temperatures may be crisp, but that’s when things start happening in Manhattan. Nothing ever seems to stay the same — whether on Broadway, in the dining scene or in the ever-changing world of great places to stay. And that’s the magic of Fun City: No matter how many times you’ve visited, you won’t find the same place twice. To plan your trip, visit iloveny.com and nyctourism.com.
Hot new theater The Tony Awardwinning best musical “Schmigadoon!” closes its Broadway run on Jan. 3, 2027, so grab your seat this fall before it’s gone. Another surefire bet: An all-star cast featuring Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Ed Harris 22 | B AY M A G A Z I N E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
and Allison Janney tops the bill in “Other Desert Cities.” Beloved comedian Billy Crystal returns to Broadway in a limited-engagement one-man show, “860,” in October, inspired by the loss of his longtime home in the recent Pacific Palisades fire. “The Fantasticks,” that quintessential offBroadway production and the longestrunning musical of all time, finally makes it onto the Great White Way as a reimagined gay love story, with previews kicking off on Oct. 22 at the Hayes Theater. Other anticipated performances: Tom Hiddleston in Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing”; Rosamund Pike in the drama “Inter Alia”; and Bill Irwin in
“The Imaginary Invalid,” Molière’s classic that proves hypochondria never goes out of style.
Music & maestros The Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, less than a mile up Broadway, has its own excitement stirring. With opera, orchestral concerts and ballet on the menu, you could spend your entire holiday at Columbus Avenue and 65th Street. The Metropolitan Opera kicks off the season with Verdi’s “Macbeth” on Sept. 22 — the same night that the New York City Ballet launches “Jewels” — followed on Sept. 25 by Puccini’s “La Bohème.” In the months ahead, the schedule ranges from Mozart’s “Così fan tutte” to the
The lights of Broadway never fail to thrill visitors to New York. Photo by Julienne Schaer/NYC Tourism.
FAR LEFT: A walk along Broadway from the Theater District to Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts takes visitors through Columbus Circle. Photo by Brittany Petronella/NYC Tourism. CENTER: Views from The Empire Rooftop’s 12th floor are as Manhattanesque as they get. Photo by Mark Orwoll. BELOW: Eleven resident arts organizations, including the Metropolitan Opera and the New York City Ballet, make their homes at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. Photo by Brittany Petronella/NYC Tourism.
Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center performing Aaron Copland’s “Appalachian Spring.”
All that jazz New York is synonymous with jazz and has the clubs to prove it. The prices are reasonable, the music swings, and you’ll feel like a local while enjoying some hip improvisations from some of the best purveyors of bebop, hard bop, mainstream and avant-garde. For a cool night on the town, consider what many think is the most sophisticated venue in the jazz world, Dizzy’s Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center, a surprisingly intimate setting where the martinis are cold and the music is hot. Birdland, named for iconic sax man Charlie Parker, is one of the longestrunning jazz clubs in town. The schedule is announced only weeks in advance, but every jazzbo who passes through the Apple wants to gig here, so expect superlative tunes in a high-end setting. Traditionally, New York jazz was associated with 52nd Street, especially from the 1920s through the ’60s. Nowadays, much of the action is down in Greenwich Village. The Village Vanguard, on lower Seventh Avenue, may be the most famous jazz club in the known world. There’s a rotating lineup of top musicians all year. But on Mondays, when
the Broadway theaters are dark, head over to the Village Vanguard for the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, capturing the spirit of the big bands of yore. Other Greenwich Village clubs we love are The Blue Note and Smalls, where perspiration and aspiration make performances a joy.
Theater sips & bites You can’t walk through the Theater District without being drawn into a boîte or bistro based on the aroma alone. Since you were last here, a spate of new openings has brought a renaissance to the dining scene. Frena, opened by Israeli chef Efi Naon in 2024, is a smooth introduction to Middle Eastern cuisine. Chef Sungchul Shim opened Korean steakhouse Gui last year to acclaim, just steps away from most of the Broadway theaters. The celebrated La Pecora Bianca opened a Times Square branch this year, bringing its house-made pastas to New York’s passionate theatergoers. For traditionalists and old-timers (your author included), a burger and a martini at Joe Allen on West 46th Street’s Restaurant Row is never amiss. After the play, head over to the iconic Sardi’s for a nightcap when it reopens this fall.
Heavenly hotels Want to walk from your hotel to the Broadway theaters? Well, you only have hundreds of choices. But if you’re looking for something different, think about Grayson Hotel, a sleek haven just three blocks from Times Square. One of the most anticipated Midtown hotels is the Kimpton Era near Rockefeller Center with a rooftop bar that has a view to die for. The Era has four places to get a bite, so you won’t go hungry. Old-school New York visitors may want to consider The Algonquin Hotel, a Midtown mainstay for over 100 years, just off Sixth Avenue and 44th Street. Though it has undergone ownership changes in the past century, the literary vibe of the Round Table continues to shine through. Traditional, charm to spare, and classic martinis in the Blue Bar — not a bad way to end a long weekend in New York.
“The Lion King” is one of the most popular Broadway shows. Photo courtesy of visitnewyork.com.
SEPTEMBER 2026
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ABOVE ALL Luxury
Heritage
Advisors
Service
Marketing
Innovation
Not just Luxury. Statement-making. Legacy-worthy. Always next level. Real estate elevated, Above All.
MADEIRA BEACH 13303 Gulf Lane Michael Lynch
PORT RICHEY 4631 Harborpointe Drive Christina Navatta
REDINGTON SHORES 17717 Gulf Boulevard #702 Roger Hogan
$2,220,000 727.460.4329
$3,750,000 813.385.8510
CLEARWATER BEACH 200 Skiff Point #501 Jose Cardenas
$2,000,000 281.827.0223
$4,495,000 727.458.3945
REDINGTON SHORES 18206 Sunset Boulevard $4,495,000 Michael Perez 727.422.6943
CLEARWATER BEACH
APOLLO BEACH
301 South Gulfview Boulevard #604 $3,500,000 Christopher Gabbard 727.644.5115
823 Manns Harbor Drive $2,390,000 Mary Renfroe 813.230.7409
TAMPA 9127 Tillinghast Drive Tunisia Abraham
SOUTH TAMPA $1,795,000 813.613.7544
3507 Bayshore Boulevard #701 $1,755,000 Paul DeSantis & Paul Scharf 813.439.4816
Sotheby’s International Realty® affiliate company in the world* BROKERAGE | RENTALS | RELOCATION | NEW DEVELOPMENT | MORTGAGE | TITLE | INSURANCE | FINE ART CONSIGNMENT Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various resources, including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.
Scan for a full list of open houses, property details, driving directions and more.
416 NE Brightwaters Boulevard Robyn Gunn
$12,500,000 727.421.7234
SOUTH TAMPA
REDINGTON BEACH
5700 Mariner Street #702 & #703 $1,595,000 Carol Pooley & Michelle DiGiore 813.992.7724
DAVIS ISLANDS
TAMPA
SNELL ISLE
16102 4th Street East Caren Dana
$1,399,000 727.410.5762
3203 East Yukon Street Jose Cardenas
$1,620,000 281.827.0223
91 Davis Boulevard #201 $1,599,000 Alee Douglass 727.330.5305
WESLEY CHAPEL
TAMPA
33376 Kateland Drive $1,395,000 Paul DeSantis & Travis Germain 813.439.4816
4213 Saltwater Boulevard $1,375,000 Brian Miller 813.484.4813
ST. PETERSBURG
BAYHILL ESTATES
PALM HARBOR
TAMPA
175 2nd Street South #808 $1,189,000 Brittany Ranew 727.258.1064
2923 West Elrod Avenue $1,188,400 Sherry Wolfe 727.637.8168
1872 Eagle Trace Boulevard $1,075,000 Karen Apa 727.776.7678
275 Bayshore Boulevard #1507 $1,065,000 Paul DeSantis 813.439.4816
TAMPA
SOUTH TAMPA
WESLEY CHAPEL
LARGO
275 Bayshore Boulevard #1006 $999,900 Paul DeSantis & Travis Germain 813.439.4816
2403 South Ardson Place #902B $925,000 Jen Dunn 865.805.9871
2213 Hollow Forest Court $825,000 Lora Brennan 813.486.9160
4415 Clearwater Harbor Drive North $800,000 Carolyn Tasillo 615.300.6284
CLE ARWATER AND THE BE ACHES | 727.595.16 0 4 SOUTH TAMPA | 81 3. 217.528 8
ST. PE TERSBURG | 727. 89 8 .6 8 0 0
RENTALS | 727.595.16 05 PremierSothebysRealty.com
TRAVE L I R E L A N D
Taking Ireland by song Story by Becca O’Reilly | Photos by Jeff Harring The Cliffs of Moher showcase Ireland’s moody weather and majestic scenery.
Tampa Bay’s Paddy O’Furniture band performed in Ireland this summer; band leader and founder Kerry O’Reilly’s daughter Becca shares their merry adventures and great places to visit when you book a trip to the Emerald Isle. Becca and Kerry O’Reilly sing at Harbour Hotel in Galway city.
near-calamitous group assembled in the airport parking lot of Shannon, Ireland, on a morning in June. College friends, extended family, siblings and others traveled across the pond to explore Ireland and serve as groupies for Tampa Bay’s very own Paddy O’Furniture band. In typical band fashion, three-quarters of the members were missing as the tour group of nearly 30 filed onto a coach bus — including my parents, delayed by a late flight. Despite our last name bearing the “O’,” the O’Reilly family isn’t all that Irish, but we LOVE Irish music. Founded in 2014, Paddy O’Furniture has wowed Tampa Bay at festivals and St. Patrick’s Day events, even playing at a Tampa Bay Rays game this summer. 26 | B AY M A G A Z I N E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
After a successful Ireland tour in 2024, this summer’s tour with two big gigs allowed us to dance a jig through the green hills of Ireland and Northern Ireland. We visited Shannon, Galway, Cong, Portballintrae, Antrim, Belfast and Dublin. Here are some of our favorite places we discovered. Galway While some destinations thrive on a vast public transportation system, Ireland is not one of them. I recommend renting a car if you plan to see more than a few of the iconic destinations the country has to offer. The Cliffs of Moher are an absolute must as you travel to Galway, about an hour and a half south of the city. Driving through the countryside also provides the chance to see the lush hillsides peppered with sheep and native Connemara ponies. Galway city comes to life at night. After reuniting with my parents, we headed out.
Even on a Tuesday, the pubs in Eyre Square filled with locals and tourists alike, watching sports and singing with the bands that seemed to inhabit every pub. If you’re in need of a break from your typical Irish fare, The Dough Bros pizzeria deserves its accolades, with fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations fueling a night ahead. Northern Ireland Remember to switch your euros to pounds as you travel north. We stopped at the geological phenomenon Giant’s Causeway before arriving in Portballintrae — a great stop to stretch your legs and take pictures. For the adrenaline junkies, just a short drive away is the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, a former fishing bridge. The breathtaking structure and landscape give a taste of the earthy rawness of the land and the culture it shaped.
If you find yourself in Portballintrae, consider staying at the Bayview Hotel. Perched right on the coast, many of the rooms overlook the vast Atlantic Ocean. Downstairs, a fantastic hotel restaurant hosted the band, where we sang, danced, ate and enjoyed the peace of a quieter town — a much-needed rest ahead of our next leg of the journey in Belfast. Belfast is filled with historic pubs like The Crown Liquor Saloon, which was a great spot to drink and get a taste of traditional foods like steak and Guinness pie and bangers and mash. Nightlife here starts early and goes into the wee hours. For history buffs who want to learn about the troubles in Ireland and Northern Ireland, the black cab tour was both poignant and illuminated how political and religious conflicts can tear people apart. Dublin At our last stop on the tour, there were so many places to explore, like the Guinness Storehouse, the Jameson Distillery and Trinity College Dublin. For me, walking around the bustling streets and people-watching were the best parts. Some of the band even joined an outdoor jam session with local musicians at O’Donoghue’s, where I hopped in to sing “Zombie” by the Irish rock band The Cranberries. That experience
Paddy O’Furniture plays a gig at the Bayview Hotel.
encapsulated the heart of the Irish people. Everywhere you go, Ireland is filled with people dancing and singing, so no matter the song or how off pitch you may be, join in the chorus and raise your glass with a “Sláinte!” to get the full experience.
history, outdoor experiences, food and drink, and, of course, music, the country is welcoming for families and solo travelers alike. I am already longing for the crisp Irish air and planning my return for another perfectly poured Guinness.
We stayed at the lovely Ashling Hotel Dublin, where I had the best full English breakfast. For Irish knitwear, visit the Weavers of Ireland shop, and for a taste of culture, the Irish Museum of Modern Art has an amazing contemporary collection and beautiful grounds.
If you’re thirsty for Irish fare and drinks in Tampa Bay, visit Finley’s Irish Pub & Eatery, Mary Margaret’s Olde Irish Tavern, Flanagan’s Irish Pub, or James Joyce Irish Pub & Eatery. Catch Paddy O’Furniture at the Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day Party on Sept. 19 from 5-8 p.m. at Sarasota’s Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Catholic Church. paddyofurnitureband.com
At 21, I was the youngest of the Paddy O’Furniture groupies, but Ireland has lots to offer for people of all ages. From
2026 festivals Summer is Ireland’s peak tourist season, but fall is also a great time to visit and enjoy the music and cultural festivals. Visit ireland.com/ en-us to help you plan your trip. ● Sept. 15-17: National Ploughing Championships. npa.ie ● Oct. 22-26: Guinness Cork Jazz Festival. guinnesscorkjazz.com ● Nov. 12-15: The Atlantic Sessions festival. atlanticsessions.com
Enjoy a pint at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. SEPTEMBER 2026
| B AY M A G A Z I N E | 27
Bay Getaways
Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands
Holland Windmills, Waterways and Tulips
February 23-March 2, 2027 Discover Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands on an unforgettable small-ship adventure aboard the MV Galapagos Legend. Explore historic Quito, stand at the Equator, and cruise through one of the world’s most remarkable wildlife destinations. Encounter sea lions, penguins, marine iguanas, giant tortoises, volcanic landscapes, and turquoise waters with expert-guided excursions, included airfare, meals, and accommodations for a bucket-list journey awaits.
April 15-23, 2027 Sail through Holland’s windmills, waterways and tulips on a scenic river cruise featuring seven nights aboard the Amadeus Star. Sail from Amsterdam to charming towns, historic cities and colorful gardens, with visits to Keukenhof, Kinderdijk windmills, Bruges, Arnhem, Middelburg, Antwerp and Amsterdam’s canals. Enjoy included airfare, outside cabin, onboard meals, wines, guided excursions, Wi-Fi and unforgettable springtime Dutch and Belgian scenery.
For reservations or more information, please contact: reservations@premierworlddiscovery.com | Tour Booking # 227760 (877)-953-8687 | premierworlddiscovery.com
For reservations or more information, please contact: reservations@premierworlddiscovery.com | Tour Booking # 227762 (877)-953-8687 | premierworlddiscovery.com
Utah’s Mighty National Parks
Culinary Journey Through Tuscany and Florence
April 25-May 1, 2027 Experience a 7-day Utah adventure through the Southwest’s most breathtaking landscapes. Stay in Moab as your base while exploring Arches, Canyonlands and Capitol Reef National Parks, Dead Horse Point and iconic Monument Valley with a Navajo guide. Enjoy a Canyonlands by Night dinner cruise, Salt Lake City, Park City, included airfare, first-class hotels, guided sightseeing, admissions, transportation and meals throughout.
April 27-May 5, 2027 Experience the flavors and beauty of Italy on a culinary journey through Tuscany and Florence. Enjoy five nights in Tuscany, two nights in Florence, a pasta-making class, olive oil and wine tastings, Tuscan farmhouse dinners, Siena, San Gimignano, Lake Trasimeno, Island Maggiore, and Michelangelo’s David. Includes airfare, first-class hotels, guided sightseeing, meals, transfers, and daily cultural discoveries throughout your journey.
For reservations or more information, please contact: reservations@premierworlddiscovery.com | Tour Booking # 227761 (877)-953-8687 | premierworlddiscovery.com
For reservations or more information, please contact: reservations@premierworlddiscovery.com | Tour Booking # 227759 (877)-953-8687 | premierworlddiscovery.com
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Your next unforgettable escape is waiting. Explore a collection of getaways featuring incredible destinations, unique experiences, and moments made for relaxing, reconnecting and discovering something new.
Ireland Tour and Music Festival
The Greek Islands by Private Catamaran
Oct. 10 – 17, 2027 Take a seven-night journey through Ireland, where breathtaking landscapes, rich history, traditional music, and authentic Irish hospitality come together to create an unforgettable experience. From the charming city of Cork to the scenic beauty of the Atlantic coast and the heart of Ireland, this carefully curated itinerary showcases the very best of Ireland’s culture, heritage, and beauty.
Experience the Greek islands the way they were meant to be discovered — aboard your own private 50+ foot luxury catamaran, with a dedicated Captain and Chef. Since 1999, Yachtsailing.com has combined authentic Greek hospitality and local expertise with comfort and privacy. Discover secluded bays, beautiful islands and hidden gems, with a customized itinerary and your crew taking care of every detail.
For reservations or more information, please contact: Dennis O’Carroll | dennis@docsgolftours.com | Tour Booking # TRIP3 (516) 606-9515 | docsgolftours.com
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TRAV E L F RANC E
Encore, Paris! Story & photos by David Downing A night cruise on the Seine River.
very first journey to Paris follows something of a ceremonial ritual: You pay your respects to the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, the Louvre, the Panthéon and the Arc de Triomphe. You devote an afternoon to windowshopping — or people-watching at a café over an espresso or an absurdly priced cola — then enjoy a baguette and a bottle of wine along the Seine River and pay homage as the city slips into evening. Add a leisurely meal at a sidewalk café or a late-night excursion to Moulin Rouge in Pigalle and voilà: You’ve passed Paris 101.
Commerce — Pinault Collection, their stunning namesake museum near Les Halles, proves they understand architecture, too. Tadao Ando’s masterful cylinder of raw concrete erected within the rotunda of an 18th-century commodities exchange is a piece of sculpture in and of itself, and worth visiting. pinaultcollection. com/fr/boursedecommerce
SIP & SUP Michelin musts Nowhere is the Michelin name more revered than in France, and these two moderately priced eateries, both recognized by the coveted guide in their first years — are well worth a stop.
But once the icons have been admired and the obligatory photographs taken, it takes some work to make Paris reveal its hidden charms.
Explore these quieter, unexpected Parisian spots where the City of Light reveals a different experience than when you first visited. Be sure to explore the city at night; Paris feels entirely different after dark, more glamorous and “romantique”!
Dessert is served at Mariage Frères.
Architecture as art The family that owns Christie’s knows art, and the Bourse de
At La Table de Mee, enjoy some shameless eavesdropping. This stylish restaurant,
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with communal seating for 24 and an exhibition grill, is tucked into a small space on a Saint-Germain side street. The Korean barbecue arrives sizzling, fragrant and beautifully composed: from the Korean fried chicken (“KFC”) to the mini cucumber salad to the spicy braised pork ribs, the restaurant’s simply prepared fare is treated with real precision. La Table de Mee is the buzzier, more polished sister to the casual Bistro Mee near the Louvre. Try an early weekday walk-in if you can’t score a reservation. meeandyou.com À L’Improviste Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and Gustave Eiffel assembled the Statue of Liberty in a studio that once stood across from this discreet bistro, and today, two other talented Frenchmen are making a little history of their own, one plate at a time. It’s elegant simplicity: Think country pâtés, foie gras with apricot, bavette tartare, and onion and leek soup with mussels. Nothing showy — just a deeply French experience, from the handwritten chalkboard menu propped against the parked cars outside to a bar straight out of an Édouard Manet painting. restaurant-alimproviste.fr It may seem like the last place to cool off, but Mariage Frères tea purveyors will serve any of their 1,000-plus teas — some truly exotic — over ice, with no need for sugar and lemon. Lipton this is not — it’s a nectar, really, with the depth, structure and complexity of fine wine. At their flagship Marais location, the
Enjoy nature and history at the Saint-Sulpice church.
Indulge in tempting bubbly and desserts at À L’Improviste.
impeccably dressed tea master — the house equivalent of a sommelier — can offer gentle direction. And with that vast selection, that guidance isn’t a luxury; it’s essential. Note: Brunch here is nothing short of exquisite, and one of the best values in town. mariagefreres.com
spell that the spectacle became permanent. Decades later, the tower hasn’t lost a flicker of its magic. It erupts in light for five dazzling minutes at the top of every hour after nightfall until midnight. In summer, when sunset may not arrive until nearly 10 p.m., you have only two or three chances to witness this show, so plant yourself somewhere with a clear sight line and prepare to be dazzled. It’s a thrilling — and free — Parisian experience that will linger long after you return.
Pedone is one of Paris’ newest culinary obsessions. Founded by an Italian family whose gelato tradition dates to 1959, it serves exceptionally creamy, low-air gelato churned fresh throughout the day. House-made cones, superb pistachio treats, seasonal fruit flavors and a rich tiramisu that’s become the darling of online reviewers make it a welcome detour between the Louvre and the Domaine National du Palais-Royal. pedone-glacier.com
EXPLORE PARIS From galleries and neighborhoods like Montmartre and Saint-Denis to sightseeing tours, shopping, and local history and parks, there’s a Paris for every passion. Learn more here: parisjetaime.com/eng Sensual Seine Unlike London’s muddy River Thames or New York’s bustling Hudson River, the Seine elegantly wends its way through postcard Paris seemingly untouched by modernity altogether. No drawbridges, no hulking commercial ports and relatively little boat traffic — just one astonishing view after another. So, suppress your Floridian aversion to all things touristy and take a Seine sightseeing cruise.
The Eiffel Tower’s twinkle is for lovers.
Don’t focus on the food or the entertainment — though both may surprise you — but rather on the perspective: the glory of Paris unfolding at water level, its bridges, monuments and glowing limestone façades drifting past at close range. It’s stunning anytime, but at night it’s almost indecently beautiful. Eiffel Tower twinkle Like the Eiffel Tower itself, its famous sparkle was never meant to last. The thousands of shimmering lights were installed to celebrate Y2K — but Paris fell so completely under their
Street art: Butte-aux-Cailles Some call it the Bushwick of Paris — a nod to Brooklyn, New York’s once-industrial, street art-saturated neighborhood — and this art-splashed Left Bank village in the 13th arrondissement more than earns the comparison. What makes Butte-aux-Cailles deserving of the 15-minute detour is the sheer range of its street art: sprawling murals; rhythmic tile installations; tiny visual jokes; and sly three-dimensional pieces, including a single can of spray paint taped to a wall in a wink at “Comedian,” Maurizio Cattelan’s infamous banana artwork. Best of all, it’s completely alive. On a recent Sunday afternoon, a pair of artists — one perfecting a massive ground-level mural, the other dangling two stories above the bustling sidewalk cafés — was working unnoticed in plain sight, adding fresh layers of wit, texture and surprise to this ever-changing urban canvas. SEPTEMBER 2026
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SHOP LOCAL
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Factory Travel in style
From packing to tracking, smart travelers want to look good, feel good and arrive in style. Simplify your trip with apps like Roadside America or HotelTonight. Headed to a big city or national park? Use a location-based narration app like Just Ahead or GuideAlong that connects to your phone’s GPS and plays an audio tour as you travel. Here are Bay Editor Nanette Wiser’s favorite things for your on-the-go excursions.
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Packing cubes Want to keep your belongings organized? Gonex compression sets are a favorite of the Good Housekeeping Institute. Walmart, 10237 Bay Pines Blvd., St. Pete. walmart.com
Bling me WOLF’s Maria leather zip jewelry cubes are stunning, with built-in storage (one ring bar, one earring bar, five zip compartments) and a LusterLoc fabric lining that absorbs the hostile gases known to cause tarnishing, keeping your jewelry sparkling. Neiman Marcus, 2223 N. West Shore Blvd., Tampa. neimanmarcus.com Apple AirTag tracker Never lose your stuff with the second-generation Apple AirTag, a must-have for your phone, keys, wallet, backpack and purse as well as your luggage. Apple Store, 2223 N. West Shore Blvd., Tampa. apple.com/retail/ internationalplaza Sports fans Add a Tampa Bay Buccaneers AirTag holder to let people know you left your heart in Tampa when you’re on the road. shop.buccaneers.com
Prying eyes Feel secure with this beautiful Baggallini zip pouch. With RFID-protected credit card slots and a quick-access compartment for your phone, this detachable pouch easily clips to your favorite designer handbag. Nordstrom, 2223 N. West Shore Blvd., Tampa. nordstrom.com
Bluetooth eye mask Block out the bright lights and noise so you can enjoy your musical playlist. The Manta SOUND sleep mask (new gen) connects to your iPhone, Android or tablet. This smart eye mask has ultrathin Bluetooth speakers, C-shaped eye cups for side-sleep comfort, perforated materials for airflow and ventilation, and a 24-hour battery life. mantasleep.com
Madagascar Centella travel kit This fabulous and trendy skin care travel kit from South Korea includes a hydrating ampoule, an exfoliating toner, foaming and lightweight cleansers, and a soothing cream. Nordstrom, 2223 N. West Shore Blvd., Tampa. nordstrom.com Making memories Even George Orwell and Mark Twain kept travel journals that later morphed into books, so why not start now? Find plenty of options at Barnes & Noble, Tombolo Books, Book + Bottle, and Oxford Exchange. Best of show are the travel journals and notebooks from a company known for its gifts for readers and writers: Levenger’s Stanley journal is a full-grain leather journal with 118 ruled and numbered gold gilt-edged pages of archive-quality paper; journal refills are available. levenger.com SEPTEMBER 2026
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CO M MUN I T Y CO N VE R SAT I O N S
Hip trip hooray Where Tampa Bay friends like to vacay By Nanette Wiser When I moved from San Diego to Tampa Bay, I would dream of my happy places: riding my bike 10 miles around Mission Bay, eating fish tacos at Coronado’s Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar after a lazy beach day, and attending jazz concerts at Shelter Island’s Humphreys Concerts by the Bay. We hope you find inspiration for your next trip here!
charge of Station 12 Studio at Green Light Cinema. “Go (to the Berkshires) in the summer when all the arts venues are open and popping with events, because you will meet the most interesting people,” Bondurant said. “It’s family friendly with tons of hiking and nature experience(s), and the small towns (Great Barrington, Lenox, Stockbridge, Lee) are charming. “Visit museums (the Clark Art Institute, MASS MoCA, Norman Rockwell Museum, Berkshire Museum) and Tanglewood for music. Some of the funnest events are held in ‘the shed,’ Jacob’s Pillow for dance, and Shakespeare & Company for plays. The gardens and home tours are also worth visiting.” berkshires.org
Bike San Diego’s Mission Bay. Photo courtesy of Visit San Diego.
West Coast cool Amy Scherzer left her heart in San Francisco: “(I) loved exploring Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown and Golden Gate Park. Loved the quirky people, gorgeous galleries, amazing restaurants and funky neighborhoods in between visiting with two of (my) four grandkids who live nearby. Still would like to see the majestic redwoods, hike Muir Woods, and drive the Avenue of the Giants and marvel at the stunning landscape,” Scherzer wrote. bit.ly/4g0WlOt The Berkshires Paul Wilborn and Eugenie Bondurant spend every summer in this western Massachusetts cultural mecca, home to Tanglewood and beautiful natural splendor. For the St. Pete couple, culture is their life. Wilborn runs the Palladium and is a musician and author whose latest book, “The Everlasting Life of Charlie Wall,” debuted this spring. Bondurant is a well-known actor and acting coach in 34 | B AY M A G A Z I N E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
Foodie fantasies Terri Williamson likes RARE 1981, an upscale American steakhouse located inside Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel. The steakhouse replaced the resort’s popular Dempsey’s restaurant. “(RARE 1981) blends classic steakhouse cooking with Gulf Coast influences, emphasizing premium steaks, seafood and seasonal ingredients in a refined resort setting,” Williamson wrote.
Eugenie Bondurant and Paul Wilborn like San Francisco, New Orleans and the Berkshires.
Amy Scherzer visits San Francisco’s Ghirardelli Chocolate Experience.
Wish you were here “I want to share the water with blue whales in Baja California and lay under the aurora borealis for hours in Norway, for starters,” actor Mary Rachel Quinn wrote. Bay general manager Kerry O’Reilly, whose Ireland summer vacay is featured in this issue, said, “Ireland is my happy place. Exploring the country with family and friends, meeting the locals, playing music, and toasting with a Guinness brings me joy.” Bay creative director Lisa Schillinger’s favorites? “As a designer and art lover, my bucket list is overflowing, but top destinations are probably Italy and Hawaii. Some of my happy places are snorkeling in the Caribbean, hiking and whitewater rafting in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and skiing in Colorado with my three boys.” Nature enthusiast Jessica Petroski’s happy place points West: “Utah completely exceeded my expectations. Hiking through the ‘Mighty Five’ national parks, I found myself surrounded by towering sandstone arches, sculpted hoodoos, deep canyons, winding rivers and majestic cliffs unlike anything I’d ever seen. Florida has its own unique beauty, but the sheer scale and grandeur of Utah’s landscapes are simply unmatched. September marks (my) fifth trip, and I am sure it won’t be (my) last as (I) continue to discover even more of this magnificent state.”
ABOVE: Laurie Loyst and her husband, Andy, relax on Sunset Beach in Bali. CENTER: Fiona Frensche singing in Nice, France. RIGHT: Amy Scherzer enjoys San Francisco’s arts scene.
Bali Hai Singer/cabaret performer Laurie Loyst and her husband, Andy, live in St. Pete Beach but recently visited Hawaii, where she was born, and then flew to Bali. Loyst loved Sunset Beach in Seminyak, Bali: “This beach town on the Indian Ocean, like our beautiful Pass-a-Grille Beach, is known for (its) sunsets. The sand is soft and tan with not a shell in sight, but (there are) lots of washed-up flip-flops as the low to high tide here is huge and sometimes takes you by surprise! The restaurants put out rows and rows of beanbag chairs at low tide, and lots of live music, kites and fireworks make for a festive coast. “Andy had one last birthday dinner arranged at MOONLITE, (a) super-cool restaurant where we watched the sun go down while a beautiful crescent moon and Venus appeared. Kites with LED lights shone in the dark like UFOs, fire dancers performed below us, and (there were) lots
of fireworks up and down the coast. We visited awhile with the musician/singer, also a lawyer, and even had a dance! Seminyak was a wonderful end to our (trip),” Loyst wrote. Toujours France Chanteuse Fiona Frensche performs around Tampa Bay when she’s not on her annual summer residence in Nice, France, performing in local cafés and leading Tripadvisor experiences. The sassy songbird wrote: “How much more fun is it to call a thrift shop a ‘friperie’? Friperies abound in Vieille Ville, Nice, and tourists and locals alike flock in droves. In Old Nice, there are three streets in particular that offer a broad variety of thrifting. If you’re looking for Coco Chanel, YSL and high-end (items), Rue Benoît Bunico is your destination. Rue Droite hosts everything from ’70s boho and So Cal vibe(s) to feminine frocks and Warhol-era mod. “If you’re looking for a mélange of everything with super-friendly price tags (5-25 euros), my favorite go-to is L’Opus Friperie. Walk into an intimate space filled with sounds from a playlist curated by Boudaoud, the owner from Algeria. The vibe is boho (and) worldly, and the shoppers range from college students to nomads to partiers who left their shirt(s) at the beach party the night before,” Frensche wrote.
Bryan and Jessica Petroski enjoy a Utah overlook.
Exploring the Everglades Editor Nanette Wiser loves photographer Clyde Butcher’s studios in Venice and the Everglades, where events, talks, conservation, nature and Butcher’s photos come to life. On Oct. 24, you can see for yourself when Friends of Big Cypress hosts a special swamp outing at the Big Cypress Gallery. Discover the wonders of the swamp with guided walks, engaging educational booths and opportunities to visit the gallery. Hear inspiring talks from environmental leaders, preserve rangers, biologists and passionate volunteers, and enjoy delicious bites from the on-site food truck. clydebutcher.com Photos courtesy of our interviewees.
Nature lovers will enjoy Big Cypress Gallery’s guided swamp walk on Oct. 24. Photo courtesy of Clyde Butcher Artworks & Gallery.
Beauty & The ’Burg podcaster Cindy Stovall explores Savannah, Georgia’s robust arts scene. SEPTEMBER 2026
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ARTS SC E N E by Maggie Duffy Fall may be in soft launch, but it’s go time for the arts in Tampa Bay. View bodies of work by prolific artists like David Hockney and Ellen Harvey, innovative fine craft techniques at Florida CraftArt, and projectALCHEMY’s next generation of choreographers.
Fall’s spectacular shows Iconic genius: David Hockney
The art world lost a giant when British painter David Hockney died in June. Thanks to the Tampa Museum of Art, we can reflect on his influential work at the “David Hockney: Perspective Should Be Reversed” exhibition, opening Sept. 24. The show features more than 140 prints, collages, photographs and iPad drawings, drawn from the collection of Jordan D. Schnitzer and his family foundation. Immerse yourself in Hockney’s world of Los Angeles swimming pools, colorsaturated landscapes and personalitycapturing portraits. The exhibition also includes his stage designs, which are as cool and vibrant as one would expect. On view through Feb. 28, 2027. tampamuseum.org
Call and response: Ellen Harvey Count on the curators at the University of South Florida Contemporary Art Museum to continually show thought-provoking exhibitions by renowned artists. They’re back at it with “PICTURE(SQUE): Ellen Harvey Works, 1999-2025.” Harvey is a prolific artist, and this exhibition 36 | B AY M A G A Z I N E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
showcases four major bodies of her work. It includes “The Mermaid: Two Incompatible Systems Intimately Linked,” a staggering 100-foot-long painting based on a satellite map of Florida, in which a section between the Everglades and Miami bears an uncanny resemblance to a mermaid’s tail.
“The New York Beautification Project” recalls Harvey’s practice of making traditional landscape paintings on graffiti sites across the city. We get the East Coast debut of her most recent work, “The Utopia Machine,” which consists of more than 100 paintings depicting the answers library patrons gave in response to the question “What would make our world into a utopia?” You can also participate in Harvey’s ongoing project, “The Disappointed Tourist,” an installation of over 300 paintings made in response to the question “Is there a place that you have always wanted to visit or revisit that no longer exists?” While our suggestions
“Cantilever Ring” by Jill Herlands. Photo courtesy of Florida CraftArt.
aren’t likely to be reflected in this show, it feels like after the 2024 hurricanes, there are plenty of places we’d like to see memorialized. Submit your response at disappointedtourist.org. On view through March 6, 2027. ira.usf.edu
Hot stuff: “Formed by Fire” Fine craft gallery Florida CraftArt’s new exhibition focuses on the metal arts of casting and fabrication. Opening Sept. 19 with a reception from 6-8 p.m., “Formed
“The Disappointed Tourist” by Ellen Harvey, seen here at Turner Contemporary. Photo by Thierry Bal.
by Fire” puts emphasis on the transformative nature of heat. Participating artists work in both traditional and contemporary processes. The show was both an open call and invitational, so there’s bound to be some innovative hybrid techniques we haven’t seen before. But metal as a material is the star of the show. On view through Oct. 24. floridacraftart.org
Working it: “Moving Surreal” Mentorship is critical to any artist’s professional development, and the proof is evident in dance company projectALCHEMY’s Momentum: Choreographic Mentorship program. Founder and artistic director Alexander Jones said that when he started the initiative in 2018, it was with the goal of keeping artists working. Fast-forward to
today, and the project has found a collaborator in The Dalí Museum. On Sept. 29 and Oct. 6, four Momentum cohort artists will present “Moving Surreal,” in which they’ll perform original choreographic works inspired by the “Dalí in America” and “The Architecture of The Dalí” exhibitions throughout the museum. The artists include Aynsleigh Morehouse, Curvacia Elysée, Sami Mangione and Victoria Gonzalez. thedali.org. projectALCHEMY season passes are available at projectalchemy.dance. projectALCHEMY presents the Momentum Choreographers Showcase: “Moving Surreal,” featuring four choreographers and four new dance works inspired by exhibitions at The Dalí Museum. Photo courtesy of projectALCHEMY. SEPTEMBER 2026
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BO O KS SC E NE
Spooky romance & literary events character). ‘The Paradise Wish,’ book five and the final story in the ‘Starlight River Cozy Romance’ series, is out as well, closing out Cypress Grove’s most romantically complicated family.”
T
ampa Bay overflows with talented authors, and in August, FloridaRAMA hosted its first-ever LitFest, a celebration of Tampa Bay’s vibrant literary community, with 30 local writers. Enjoy some of their interviews in future columns and online: bit.ly/3Jx1mla
Haunted romance Local author Tamara Lush, who also writes under her pen name, Tara Lush, has two new paranormal romance books out just in time for scary season. “A Spell for Second Chances,” a spinoff of her “Crescent Moon” series, comes out Sept. 18. Think forest magic, fall pumpkin festivals, a talking Tamara Lush. Photo courtesy of Tamara Lush. moose and a murder set against the backdrop of Hemlock Hollow, Vermont. Said Lush: “If you’ve read my ‘Crescent Moon’ books, you’ll love this (and will recognize a familiar 38 | B AY M A G A Z I N E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
Here’s what “The Paradise Wish” is about: Natalia Hastings is the only single Hastings sibling in Cypress Grove — the self-proclaimed “Psychic Capital of the World” — and she’d like everyone to stop making a big deal about it. Designing oneof-a-kind necklaces, helping her brother Max run the Magnolia Grande and dodging dating app weirdos is more than enough. Then the Visitors Bureau pairs her with Matthew Mancini, a charming, divorced single dad and brand-new helicopter pilot, who is in town for a photo shoot at the springs. By sunset, the camera has captured something neither of them was planning to let anyone see: attraction. It might be the easiest love story in Cypress Grove history. Until Mancini’s family arrives in town for the weekend, and Hastings recognizes a face she’s spent 15 years pretending she doesn’t remember. Now she’s forced to make a choice between her past and present, and she’s not sure if all the magic in Cypress Grove will help. taralush.com
Book clubs/events Oxford Exchange Two of Oxford Exchange’s monthly book clubs are at St. Pete’s The Library restaurant at lunchtime and 6 p.m. Plus, on Sept. 28, it will hold a midnight release party for Rebecca Yarros’ highly anticipated “Threshing Day” short story collection, where you can enjoy refreshments, literary games and more. Costumes are encouraged for guests.
Gridiron fans will enjoy Oxford Exchange’s Sept. 30 conversation with Greg Auman and New York Times bestselling author Lars Anderson about his new book, “Brady: An American Story and the Price of Greatness.” oxfordexchange.com Arts Passport Book Club Tampa Bay Arts Passport is the brainchild of founder Avery Anderson. On Sept. 27 at 3 p.m., the organization’s Arts Passport Book Club will talk about Janice Hadlow’s “The Other Bennet Sister” followed by a private 6 p.m. showing of “Jane Austen in 89 Minutes” at Tampa’s Stageworks Theatre. The book club offers members a chance to explore literature that connects with upcoming plays, art shows or exhibitions in collaboration with Tombolo Books. tbartspassport.com/ book-club Storytelling Amateur Hour PurposeDriven Professionals and Book + Bottle are collaborating on a new low-pressure open mic event on the first Wednesday of every month from 6-8 p.m. Your words don’t have to be polished, perfected or rehearsed. Poetry and short stories are welcome. Or you can read a favorite children’s story or a short story by a favorite author. Readers will have five minutes at the mic. The sign-up sheet goes live at 6 p.m.; stories start at 6:30 p.m. bookandbottlestpete.com/events Fenway Hotel In addition to fabulous food, jazz and perhaps the best sunset view in Tampa Bay from its rooftop bar, this Dunedin hot spot has a free monthly book club on select Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Guests are encouraged to read the selected book in advance and RSVP ahead of time and can receive 20% off the featured book at Back in the Day Books in downtown Dunedin. fenwayhotel.com — Nanette Wiser
L ET’S GO
Discover Tampa Bay’s hot spots
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all into fabulous neighborhood hangouts and celebrate milestones with legendary local businesses like Zubrick Magic Theatre and Hotel Flor. There are so many new places to explore this season, including Moon by Malio’s, a new restaurant that will open in Pass-a Grille’s Berkeley Beach Club. In Tampa, check out The Landon’s new menu, which includes caviar service, and brunch and zippy cocktails at the recently opened Howard & Platt.
can book a private event or tour on their elegant white trolleys, speakeasy lounge bus or pretty-in-pink custom bus for private bookings. star-trolley.com/tours
Shopping in Hyde Park Village is a joy. Photo courtesy of Hyde Park Village.
Oliver Zubrick, Chris Zubrick, Branna Tedford, Neil Fama, Marlana LaCivita, Kelby Frazier, Katie Los and Ryan Zubrick. Photo courtesy of Zubrick Magic Theatre.
Hyde Park Village Sophistication, luxe shops and sensational restaurants lure locals and visitors to Hyde Park Village, and with its newly opened Ralph Lauren and LoveShackFancy boutiques, it’s more buzzy than ever, with regular events at Color Me Mine for artsy aficionados and fresh flowers at Posies Flower Truck in the Village Circle. Coming soon is Hill House Home.
Downtown St. Pete St. Pete’s Zubrick Magic Theatre celebrated its fifth anniversary in July. The intimate, award-winning theatre captivates audiences with a blend of world-class sleight of hand, grand illusions and family-friendly comedy. New this fall are jaw-dropping illusions, an enhanced preshow experience, the Zubrick Gives Back fundraising program and the “Moonlight Express,” an immersive adults-only close-up magic experience. zubrickmagic.com
Hyde Park Village’s six blocks also feature fan favorites such as Sephora, Anthropologie, Bonobos, Kendra Scott, Rag & Bone, Lululemon, and Fresh Market. Why not enjoy a staycation at Palihouse Hyde Park Village, which features 36 bespoke guest rooms and an intimate lobby lounge and cocktail bar? From there, you can catch a film at CinéBistro or dine at On Swann, Meat Market, Jekyll, Forbici, or Fig & Julep. hydeparkvillage.com
Explore St. Pete in style with Star Trolley. Photo courtesy of Star Trolley.
Hotel Flor celebrates 100 years with its Historic Happy Hours event series. Photo courtesy of Hotel Flor.
Getting around downtown St. Pete during the Second Saturday ArtWalk or to an art mural or St. Petersburg Museum of History tour is easy with Star Trolley. You
A Century Uncorked Once Tampa’s tallest building, Hotel Flor is a cornerstone of Tampa’s architectural and social history. It celebrates 100 years with its Historic
Happy Hours themed event series, which culminates in a grand New Year’s Eve gala, A Century Uncorked. Enjoy curated vintage cocktails and dishes in The Dan, plus period-appropriate live music from 7-10 p.m. Guests are encouraged to come in costume and spend the weekend! September brings “Jazz & Jasmine,” a 1930s tribute set to the sounds of the swing era. Guests can sip The Jasmine Swing cocktail while savoring jasmine honey ricotta crostini. October’s “The Society Pages” theme will transport guests to the sophisticated 1940s, pairing classic cocktails like the Gibson with Homefront deviled crab cakes, a nod to the era’s wartime spirit and Tampa’s rich Gulf Coast flavors. November rocks with “Mod & Martinis,” celebrating the hotel’s glamorous 1960s heyday when icons like Elvis Presley and Gary Cooper were guests, and features signature cocktails like the Blue Note Martini and the High Roller. hotelflortampa.com Wine, women & song Cipresso at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa is set to host the inaugural Her Pour: Wine & Spirits Showcase on Sept. 27 from noon to 4 p.m. The immersive tasting event will celebrate the innovation, craftsmanship and leadership of women winemakers, distillers and culinary professionals. Guests will enjoy samples from more than 15 vendors, with curated tasting stations featuring women-led wine and spirits brands alongside chef-driven food pairings prepared by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa’s fine dining culinary team. The afternoon will also include live entertainment and an interactive showcase of elements designed to create a one-of-a-kind tasting experience. A portion of the ticket sales will benefit The Spring of Tampa Bay and the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. hardrock.com/ tampa — Nanette Wiser SEPTEMBER 2026
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Fashionable fall or Tampa Bay stylistas, September can be confusing. We want to migrate to a new wardrobe and trending color palette, but autumn leaves don’t fall here, nor do the temperatures. From local shops to bling, here are some fashion ideas for navigating this in-between season. Fall fashionista The gorgeous Andrea Litsch is the epitome of Tampa Bay’s effortless chic. The St. Pete resident is a custom luxury closet designer with Closet Envy who has spent the last decade creating spaces that make getting dressed easier and more beautiful and intentional. “A gorgeous closet only works if it functions for the way you actually live, and custom storage solutions should blend organization, thoughtful design and everyday luxury,” Litsch said. Her top fashion tip? “Organization is the secret to great style, because you can get dressed with confidence every day when you can see what you own,” she said. “My biggest style advice is to stop buying for the life you imagine or see on Instagram and start buying for the life you actually live. Before purchasing anything, ask yourself, ‘Does this fit my lifestyle? Does it coordinate with what I already own? Will I realistically wear it?’ A beautiful, curated wardrobe isn’t about owning more, it’s about owning the right pieces.” Litsch’s go-to brands include FARM Rio, Sézane and Fashionista Andrea Litsch says a curated wardrobe is not about owning more, but owning the right pieces. Photo courtesy of The Dashing Ginger. 40 | B AY M A G A Z I N E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
Aritzia. She also enjoys shopping at Nordstrom, Shopbop and Target as well as local St. Pete boutiques like Plain Jane and MISRED Outfitters. When she needs to buy something bold or a one-off, she looks to Rent the Runway, which lets you enjoy an outfit, then return it. “Fall is my season to shop for my colors, as well as jewel tones. I’m looking for more tailored wide-leg pants, sets and feminine details. I don’t chase a trend. I chase the feeling when you look in the mirror and think, ‘YES! I love this, I look great.’ When you love what you wear, you feel more confident and it shows,” she said. tampa. theclosetenvy.com
Daf&Dream’s exceptional Italian styles feature superior craftmanship and subtle details. Photo courtesy of Daf&Dream.
What’s trending as we head into society season in Tampa Bay? Said Gianna: “Gold chains and bracelets, classic styles, and nice Italian style Global fashionistas look to gold or silver necklaces that French and Italian women for feature bezel-set diamonds. inspiration. Lucky for us, the Say hello to diamond Daf&Dream Italian stud earrings in boutiques in Belleair natural and lab Bluffs and downtown (and) single-stone Clearwater specialize and bezel-set in romantic Positano necklaces with a linen dresses in colorful twist. colors inspired by Studs are easy the Amalfi Coast, (and stylish) and gorgeous cruise(work for) a gala worthy bikinis, or for work.” Make SPEKTRE sunglasses, your look an Donatella Brunello bags, expression of your handmade Italian shoes, personality, and balance and hypoallergenic La Carose statement pieces with bracelets and necklaces. Coastal style, gold and diamonds are in season. Photo courtesy of timeless, dainty staples, Coming this fall is Italian home always Beverly Gianna Luxury Jewelry & Design. Gianna added. décor with the same exceptional craftsmanship as Finally, design-led storytelling, color and Daf&Dream’s fashions. dafdream.com sculptural metalwork are the dominant creative trends in 2026: “Champagne/ Bada bling Beverly Gianna of Beverly desert diamonds are making a comeback Gianna Luxury Jewelry & Design suggests for engagement rings, so expect to see traveling with minimal jewelry and only them show up in fashion,” Gianna said. what you are comfortable with: “Unique beverlygianna.com costume jewelry, arm cuffs, celestial designs and statement pieces look good with any — Nanette Wiser outfit, and as an homage to Tampa Bay, coastal style is always in season when you’re on the road or in the air,” she said.
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China gallery Collector Kathy Durdin serves history and hospitality in a teacup. Story by Amy Scherzer | Photos by Donna Morrison hould King Charles III and Queen Camilla — or any member of the British royal family, for that matter — ever find themselves in South Tampa, Kathy Durdin is more than ready to receive them properly with tea. The retired certified public accountant and award-winning artist believes that fine china is meant to be enjoyed, not locked away behind glass. Unlike many collectors, Durdin draws from her collection of European porcelain and bone china — something like 25 sets now — to host afternoon tea parties for friends and neighbors, The Florida Orchestra supporters, Henry B. Plant Museum volunteers, and other groups through the years.
Homemade orange-blueberry scones, rosemary shortbread and such are served on the antique plates otherwise stacked in every china cabinet, kitchen cupboard and highboy in her Hyde Park home. “Bluebell. Begonia. Serenity. Drifting Leaves. Old Sèvres. Art Deco Vogue. Old Cottage Chintz. Ovington. Indian Tree,” Durdin listed. She identified Shelley, Spode, Herend, Royal Doulton and Royal Winton china patterns as she gestured toward mini soup tureens, cake plates, sugar bowls, creamers and teapots by the dozens. “Did I overwhelm you?” she asked with a laugh. Guests often arrive early to help set the table or linger afterward to carefully wash
Guests adore the sweets and savories Kathy Durdin creates for her tea parties.
and dry the delicate china. For Durdin, those moments are as meaningful as the gatherings themselves. “It’s an opportunity to connect, to build community,” she said. During COVID-19, Durdin baked and delivered her specialty treats, along with roses and zinnias from
Kathy Durdin cherishes her vintage Shelley Blue Pansy Chintz collection. 42 | B AY M A G A Z I N E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
too,” she said, Durdin became knowledgeable in 18th-century silver as well as 18th- and 19th-century decorative arts styles that have been the focus of all of her collecting, including the British china she collects and uses today.
Kathy Durdin’s china and porcelain collection includes Shelley Old Sèvres plates and antique Herend vases.
Kathy Durdin’s Royal Doulton Carlyle china.
A hobby clipping Forbes magazine ads featuring the publisher’s famed bejeweled Fabergé eggs inspired her first Russian decorative arts acquisition: a gold Fabergé cigarette case purchased after she sold the consulting firm she co-owned in 1998. Since then, Durdin has amassed hundreds of Fabergé objects — jewelry, enamelware, porcelain and other treasures — spanning the centuries from pre-Catherine the Great through the fall of the Romanov empire. Most of that collection resides at the Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens in Washington, D.C., and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond. Durdin’s fine china fascination is steeped in her affection for “cozy” mysteries, the charming whodunits where the main character is often a tea shop owner likely to be involved in solving a crime. “When one character set out a Shelley Flowery Chintz tea service,” she recalled, “I just had to go on eBay and buy an entire collection.” kathydurdin.com
Tina’s Tea & Bubbles at Pluma Lounge is an exquisite weekend splurge. Photo courtesy of Pluma Lounge.
eady to entertain? Alexandra Stoddard’s “Tea Celebrations” is your go-to guide. If you don’t have family china, you can find beautiful teapots and cups at St. Pete’s Vintage Marché and local antique shops. For luxury loose-leaf teas or to experience a tea party, visit Blush Tea & Coffee, Joseph’s Tea Room & Shop, Whistle Stop Tea Room, TeBella Tea Company, The White Heron Tea & Gifts, or Tina’s Tea & Bubbles in the Pluma Lounge on the weekends. Enjoy tea sandwiches (cucumber and cream cheese, chicken salad, turkey and cranberry); scones with clotted cream and jam; finger desserts (macarons, mini éclairs, petits fours, mini cheesecakes, fruit tarts); savories (mini quiche, cheese straws, deviled eggs, cucumber cups with hummus); grapes; figs; watermelon feta bites; and cheeses (brie, goat and cheddar). Dress to impress with a beautiful hat or fascinator!
Kathy Durdin’s fine china collections in her dining room.
her garden, to friends’ porches, where they could socially distance themselves over tea. “It’s really a shame that people don’t use their mother’s or grandmother’s china,” she said. “When I see how happy people are to indulge in gracious living, it reminds me that these things were meant to be enjoyed.” Childhood antique hunting jaunts are fond memories. While earning an accounting degree at William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia, “taking plenty of art history classes,
Tea party ideas
A Chinese ancestry portrait provides the backdrop to 19th-century Herend pieces displayed on an 18th-century Irish Georgian table.
P.S. Support The Florida Orchestra; buy tickets for The Guilded Tea Affair on Oct. 6 from 2-4 p.m. at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club, hosted by The Florida Orchestra Guild. fogsp.org SEPTEMBER 2026
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SO CIAL SCE NE by Amy Scherzer
Moffitt Cancer Center 20th Annual Martinis for Moffit Bay Area Advisors showed off two decades of party prowess with endless martinis, twirling aerialists, casino games, five musical acts and a whole lot of swagger at the 20th annual Martinis for Moffitt benefit, co-chaired by Scott Griffith and Ryan Conigliaro. Nearly 700 guests poured into Armature Works on July 11, some of whom kicked off the evening with a private sponsors’ dinner alongside Moffitt CEO Dr. Patrick Hwu. An olive and pickle fountain was a fun twist for dirty martini aficionados. Bay Area Advisors’ summer bash brought the group’s total donations to Moffitt Cancer Center programs to over $3.5 million. Photos by Amy Scherzer.
Kathy Werner and Brady Diggs.
Ryan Conigliaro and Scott Griffith.
Charlie DiCampli, Sophie Payne and Sergio D’Sa.
Corey Lilburn, David Kahn, Andrei Vasilevskiy and Brian Diesselhorst.
Mike and Karen Hajek. 44 | B AY M A G A Z I N E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
Alex McSherry, Maclyn Boals, Amelia Lum and Lily Rice.
Florida Museum of Photographic Arts Ybor Gangster Speakeasy Fortunately, the only “shots” fired at the Ybor Gangster Speakeasy benefit for the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts were from cameras, as picture-perfect guests were captivated by actor Eugenie Bondurant and Palladium Theater executive director Paul Wilborn’s dramatic readings from Wilborn’s latest novel, “The Everlasting Life of Charlie Wall.” The biggest “hit” July 18 wasn’t a mob rival — or even the notorious triple rum Gasparilla punch — but The Tampa Tribune’s photojournalism documenting mobster Wall’s unsolved 1955 Ybor City murder, proving the best shots are taken with a camera. Photos by Amy Scherzer.
Kim and Bill Cummings with Jenny Carey. Photo courtesy of Michael Oster Photography.
Claire Gallo and Jay Yung.
Robin O’Dell, Alexis Muellner, Clara ten Berge and Chuck Levin.
Rob Coscia and Beth Eschenfelder with Eugenie Bondurant and Paul Wilborn.
The Helen Gordon Davis Centre for Women 34th Annual Gourmet Feastival
Tony and Darlene Barone.
The Caribeño Tropical band kept the guayabera- and sundress-wearing crowd dancing — salsa, merengue, bachata — all night at the 34th annual Gourmet Feastival, this year a lively “Havana Nights” benefit for The Helen Gordon Davis Centre for Women, named for the Florida senator who championed women’s rights and opportunities. Event co-chairs Sharon Conklin Perez and Craig Beckinger, along with emcees Gayle Guyardo, head of network development for the Health News Network, and Tony Clemente, co-host of the “Mañanas Máxima Con Tony y Valerie” morning show on WYUU-92.5 FM, welcomed nearly 1,000 guests to the colorful fiesta at Higgins Hall on July 30. Dozens of restaurants dished up samples and a tempting silent auction helped raise $90,000 for The Centre’s educational and empowerment programs. Photos by Keith Lindquist.
Susan Dellinger, Renée Baker, Ann Madsen and Lorna Taylor. 46 | B AY M A G A Z I N E | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6
Sharon Conklin Perez, Craig Beckinger, Trinity Oliver and Tony Clemente.
SO C I A L SC E N E CAL ENDAR by Amy Scherzer Sept. 15: Ninth Annual Tampa Bay Food Fight benefits Metropolitan Ministries. St. Pete versus Tampa chef team battle. 6-9 p.m. The Coliseum. tampabayfoodfight.org
Oct. 17: FARA Energy Ball benefits the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance and the USF Health Ataxia Research Center. 6 p.m. Tampa Marriott Water Street. curefa.org/energyball
Sept. 19: Tuxes and Tails: “Brazil, Under the Canopy” benefits the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. 5:30 p.m. Tampa Convention Center. tuxestailstampa.com
Oct. 17: Eye Ball: “Unmasking Vision – Revealing the Power of Sight” benefits the Lions World Vision Institute Foundation. 6 p.m. Armature Works. lwvi.org/eye-ball
Sept. 19: 20th Annual Pride & Passion: “Go Greek & Roman” benefits the Tampa Museum of Art. Must be 21-plus to attend. 7 p.m. Tampa Museum of Art. tampamuseum.org
Oct. 17: Gala for Straz Center. 6 p.m. Morsani Hall at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. strazcenter.org
Sept. 24: Distinguished Citizen Award Dinner benefits Scouting America’s Greater Tampa Bay Area Council. Honors Peter Collins. 5:30 p.m. TPepin’s Hospitality Centre. gtbac.org/dca26 Sept. 26: The Art of Hope Gala benefits Joshua House. 6-10 p.m. Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel. friendsofjoshuahouse.org Oct. 1: Broadway by Candlelight benefits American Stage. 6-8:30 p.m. The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art. americanstage.org
Oct. 29: Red Cross Angels’ Silver Coffee. Invitation only. 11 a.m.1 p.m. Everett residence in South Tampa. redcrossangelssilvercoffee @gmail.com Nov. 5: Wine, Women & Shoes benefits the Children’s Cancer Center. 6-10 p.m. Armature Works. childrenscancercenter.org/ wine-women-shoes Contact Amy Scherzer at amyscherzersdiary@gmail.com to have your event listed on the calendar.
Oct. 2: Art & Aces benefits the Tampa Museum of Art. 7:3011 p.m. Tampa Museum of Art. tampamuseum.org Oct. 3: Freedom Fund Dinner benefits NAACP Hillsborough. 6 p.m. JW Marriott Tampa Water Street. naacphillsborough.org Oct. 8: USF Women in Leadership & Philanthropy Symposium. Features guest speaker Kimberly Williams-Paisley and honorees Drs. Moira Burke and Sylvia Campbell. 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tampa Marriott Water Street. eventful.usf.edu/rsvp/wlp-fall-symposium Oct. 10: 60th Ybor Chamber Gala. 6-9 p.m. Columbia Restaurant Ybor City. members.ybor.org Oct. 10: The Fairytale Ball: “An Evening of Timeless Temptation” benefits the My Fairy Godfathers Foundation. 6:30 p.m. Shanna and Bryan Glazer JCC. myfairygodfathers.net Oct. 10: Big Gala: “Mission: Possible” benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay. 6 p.m. The Motor Enclave. bbbstampabay.org Oct. 16: Dishes & Wishes benefits Make-A-Wish Southern Florida. 7-11 p.m. Armature Works. dishesandwishestampa.com
Explore St. Pete History By Boat or Trolley! Take a trip through St. Pete’s past! Offering historic boat, trolley and Segway tours. Explore Prohibition, baseball, ghost stories and more! The Museum of History has something for everyone! For reservations or more information, please contact: Liberty O’Neill • liberty@historystpete.org (727) 894-1052 x200 • historystpete.org/historic-tours SEPTEMBER 2026
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