Tampa Is…?

Another work week is almost over and it is time to make your weekend plans.

The Teenager has to work all weekend, so we won’t see her much (poor thing!). The little one will want to be kept busy or she will continue to ask “what’s next?”! I have looked for kid, family, and not-too-expensive events, and only came up with a few.

I know there is always MOSI, Lowry Park, and other regular staples but I try to look for different things to do with the family. Not only to save money but to venture off a little, not be so same old, same old. When I was a child we had little money for extras (forget about Busch Gardens or Disney!), so my mom and step-dad had to be creative. And let me tell you, I miss that! I’m trying hard to pick that back up for myself and my kids. Sometimes it is not where you go but the fun you had getting there and spending with the family or friends you took! Below are my picks for this weekend, please have fun with whatever you choose to do!

Brandon Fresh Market Saturday March 8, 9am-3pm at the Winthrop Town Centre, corner of Bloomingdale and Providence Avenues. This fresh market will have produce, plants, seafood, books, candy, antiques, and several other types of vendors. There are a handful of locally owned stores in the centre as well. This is not always fun for small kids, but I know sometimes little ones can be bribed for something little or just ice cream! My little one loves Publix fried chicken and since there is a Publix in the centre, well, guess where lunch will be coming from! Now we all are happy and ready for the ride over the bridge (see below). You can go to www.brandonfreshmarket.com for more information.

Sounds of Music Series Saturday March 8th, 1:00pm-4:00pm at the St. Petersburg Pier. The Pier is going to have live music from Lionheart outside at the Waterside Courtyard. For the kids, there will be free face painting, a one man circus and a character from Frizy Bros. (this one stumps me). I suggest taking kites and sandwiches and walking down to the small beach area or over to the park and just have fun with the kids. There are great trees to climb or to sit under for a nice picnic. This is the stuff I love about living here!

Brandon Coupon Club Meeting, Saturday March 8th at 2:00pm at the Bloomingdale Regional Library in Valrico. This is what I need to be doing, I love coupons and I did not know this club existed. I found this on TBO’s community news. All it says is to bring your scissors and extra coupons to share! I won’t be able to make this meeting but they meet every second Saturday of the month. Linda will answer any questions you have. She can be reached at 813-689-9150. I have already marked my calendar for next month, I just wish it was earlier in the day so I could get up, go, and then go shop!

16th Annual Apollo Beach Manatee Festival Saturday and Sunday, March 8th & 9th, 10:00am – 4:00pm at the Tampa Electric South Shore Community Center. This has a $5 admission fee for anyone older than 12 and that does include parking. This event will have artists and craftsmen, cooking demonstrations, children’s creativity center and art show, food vendors, and a beer garden. There will also be an exhibition tent with various organizations to help educate how to protect the Tampa Bay waters, wildlife, boating and environment. They are also offering a free shuttle to the Manatee Viewing Center from the festival site. This sounds like so much fun for the whole family. I planned on going boating Sunday but I think this might be added to our list instead. For more information go to www.apollobeachchamber.com

Those are just a few of the things going on in Tampa Bay this weekend. No matter what your tastes, it’s the most beautiful time of the year, so don’t stay inside - go out and do something!