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Hyundai Air & Sea Show, Miami Beach — Hyundai Air & Sea Show
Key West Songwriters Festival, Key West —Rob O'Neal/Florida Keys Bureau
HORSING AROUND IN WELLINGTON – Head west of West Palm Beach to Wellington for an outstanding horse and rider-centric happening: the Palm Beach International Polo Season. It features the best polo players in the world, with many options and side shows to keep you entertained and well-fed.
When & Where: Dec. 29-April 27 for the Palm Beach International Polo Season. Both are at the Wellington International Polo Center.
Web:  thepalmbeaches.com/event/palm-beach-polo-season
FLEET WEEK – After an absence of two years, it’s coming back to Broward County once again. It will feature the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. You will be able to tour real Navy and Coast Guard ships. Slots fill up quickly, so register soon. At press time the ships had not yet been designated, but keeping checking the website for more info. There will also be a free concert to celebrate the 250th birthdays of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, plus Navy Band performances.
When: April 22
Where: Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale
Web: https://browardnavydaysinc.org/
PUNTA GORDA SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL – Choose from a variety of entrees including seafood, meat and vegetarian dishes. There is always a yummy selection of side dishes and desserts. Some of Florida’s and the region’s top musical acts will keep your toes tapping. In addition to the food and the music there will be a marketplace of arts & crafts featuring paintings, mixed-media, glasswork, gourmet food items and specialty products.
When: April 18-20
Where: Laishley Park, Punta Gorda
Web: paragonfestivals.com/festival/punta-gorda-seafood-music-festival-2/
LAS OLAS WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL – Fort Lauderdale’s famous Las Olas Boulevard shuts down for an evening and many of the area’s top restaurants will serve tapas, sliders, salads, cheeses, flatbreads and other dishes. More than 100 fine wines and beers from around the world will also be on tap, as will live music, DJs and dancing.
When: April 25
Where: Along Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale
Web:  lasolaswff.com
CONCH REPUBLIC INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION – The Florida Keys didn’t really officially leave the United States back in 1982 – or did they? The celebration’s motto is “We seceded where others have failed,” but judge for yourself and have a great time at this 10-day, tongue-firmly-planted-in-cheek bash. Events include a wacky bed race, a polar plunge and a light-hearted sea battle featuring tall ships.
When: April 18-27
Where: Various locations in Key West
Web: conchrepublic.com
MINTO U.S. OPEN PICKLEBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS – This is a world-class international event, attracting the best players in the world, as well as pickleball enthusiasts of all ages and ability levels. It’s being held at a 64-court venue which is one of the best in the country.  About 3,000 people are expected to participate in this year’s event, ranging in age from eight to 88. You’ll also enjoy live music, beverages and yummy food.
When: April 26-May 3
Where: East Naples Community Park, Naples
Web: usopenpickleballchampionship.com
REEF LIONFISH DERBY – Here’s a chance to have some underwater fun and help reduce this highly invasive species. There is a captain’s meeting on the first day and that is followed by two days fishing for the culprits from sunrise to sundown. Then the Lionfish Festival takes place on the final day with tournament scoring, awards, lionfish tastings and science arts exhibits.
When: April 24-27
Where: Key Largo
Web: reef.org/derby
MIAMI DADE COUNTRYFEST – It used to be known as the Miami International Agriculture Horse and Cattle Show. It now has a shorter name but the same amount of fun, if not more. In addition to the prime cattle auctions and shows, it also includes carnival rides, live music, a rodeo, equestrian shows, kids activities, a truck show and food trucks.
When: April 26-27
Where: Ronald Reagan Equestrian Center at Tropical Park, Miami
Web: mdcountryfest.com/
WHATEVER FLOATS YOUR BOAT – If it’s plywood, head to the Plywood Regatta. If it’s cardboard, check out the Cardboard Boat Regatta. At the former, middle school, high school and college students will build and race boats using hand-tools and a limited set of supplied materials. The latter is open to folks of all ages, but the idea is pretty much the same. Good fun and lots of laughs will be had at both.
When & Where: Respectively, April 26-27 at Whiskey Creek in Dania Beach; March 29 at Seahawk Park in Cape Coral.
Web: Respectively, plywoodregatta.org  and capecoralrotary.org/cardboard-boat-regatta
O, MIAMI POETRY FESTIVAL – This month-long event’s bold mission is to have every person in Miami-Dade County encounter a poem. Mixing traditional readings with innovative poetry-in-public places projects, the festival weaves poetry into the fabric of the existing infrastructure and cultural life. It’s a community-based festival that considers itself a “Miami” festival first and a poetry festival second because the poetry is the means to celebrate the city.
When: April 1-30
Where: Various locations throughout Greater Miami and The Beaches
Web: Poetry Festival – OMiami
BARRET-JACKSON AUTO AUCTION – Get in on the bidding or just gawk at mint 1950s beauties, eye-popping exotics, muscle cars and even late models from such automakers as Land Rover, Porsche and Mercedes-Benz. Beyond the auction block, attend educational symposiums, rub shoulders with celebrity guests and check out the sprawling Exhibitor Marketplace that has top-of-the-line gear, accessories, art, fashion, jewelry and memorabilia.
When: April 24-26
Where: South Florida Fairgrounds Expo Center in West Palm Beach
Web: barrett-jackson.com
LOOK! UP IN THE SKY! – It’s not a bird. It’s not Superman. And it’s not just one plane. It’s a whole bunch of planes (and a lot more) at these two entertaining air shows. You can catch one at the beginning of May and one near the end of the month.
KEY WEST SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL – It features some 200 performers spread over five days and nights, some of whom have written songs for and/or performed with lots of A-Listers in the music biz, mostly in the country genre. Some also have gone on to have very successful careers of their own. Some of the headliners this year are Nate Smith, Chase Matthews, Raul Malo (Mavericks’ front man), Elisha Hoffman Liz Roles and Dylan Altman. The festival is known for kick-starting the careers of future big-time stars, such as Kacey Musgraves, Maren Morris and Florida Georgia Line.
When: April 30-May 4
Where: Various venues in Key West
Web: keywestsongwritersfestival.com
THE FLORIDA OUTDOOR EXPO – Attendees will experience an interactive environment with manufacturers, dealers and retailers, all showing the latest in archery, backyard living, biking, boating, camping, fishing, hunting, motorsports, outdoor vacations and watersports. There will be product demonstrations, seminars, classes, food courts, live entertainment and lots of kid-friendly events. Don’t miss the Dock Dogs competition, i.e., dogs jumping off docks and splashing into the water.
When: May 2-4
Where: Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds, West Palm Beach
Web: floridaoutdoorexpo.com
MOSAIC IN THE PALM BEACHES – Enjoy a month-long celebration of shows, art, ideas and culture at some of Palm Beach County’s best attractions and museums at discounted prices. Here are some of past participants: Armory Art Center, Benzaiten Center for Creative Arts, Boca Raton Museum of Art, Cox Science Center & Aquarium, Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, Lighthouse Art Center Gallery & School of Art, Loggerhead Marinelife Center, Mounts Botanical Garden, Palm Beach Dramaworks, Resource Depot, Taras Oceanographic Foundation and Yesteryear Village Living History Village. Check closer to the event for additional groups.
When: Most are May 1-31, but some may extend further than that
Where: Various locations in Palm Beach County
Web: mosaicpbc.com
FORMULA 1 CRYPTO.COM MIAMI GRAND PRIX – Attendees will see the highest class of international racing for open-wheel, single seat race cars. Formula 1 vehicles are the fasted regulated road course racing cars in the world. The Miami race is on a 3.36 mile-long track and it will feature 19 corners and three straight-aways. The cars will reach tops speeds of nearly 200 miles per hour. The top Formula 1 drivers will compete, including Lando Norris, last year’s winner. There are also other races over the three-day weekend. Check out the Team Village, set up on the football field inside the stadium the Miami Dolphins call home. Drivers, pit crews and other race-team members will be based there throughout the weekend. It’s open to all ticket-holders and you can get a close-up look at all the behind-the-scenes action. VIP packages will enhance the experience.  Delicious food, good music and an amazing art gallery are also part of the experience.
When: May 2-4
Where: The Miami International Autodrome, a temporary circuit on the grounds of Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens
Web: f1miamigp.com
FAMILY WONDER DAYS – Walk. Observe. Navigate. Draw. Explore. Read. That’s what families are encouraged to do together at this fun-filled event. (In case you missed it, all the capital letters all spell WONDER). All kinds of adventures can be had, including games, activities and scavenger hunts. Pick up an activity guide (in English, Spanish, or Creole) to use as you navigate through a lush landscape to observe birds, pollinators and plants.
When: May 24-25
Where: Naples Botanical Garden
Web: naplesgarden.org/events/family-wonder-days/2025-05-24/
OCEAN BREWS & BLUES BEER FEST – Spend a day at the beach and sample an assortment of more than 100 beers form some of America’s finest craft breweries while listening to a variety of blues performers and bands. Lots of good food will be on hand, as will arts and crafts vendors.
When: May 17
Where: main beach parking lot in Deerfield Beach
Web: deerfield-beach.com/1601/Ocean-Brews-Blues
SOUTH BEACH FILM FESTIVAL – This new kid on the block (it’s the inaugural event) focuses on international cinema, short films, comedies and documentaries that explore culturally and socially relevant themes. The festival will commemorate significant milestones in Miami history, including the 30^th anniversary of Bad Boys and the 40^th anniversary of Miami Vice, with themed events and cast appearances. There will be seminars, conferences, networking events, and (of course) cocktail parties throughout the four-day event. In addition to movie theaters, there will be showings on the beach (organizers say bring a bathing suit!) and in drive-ins.
When: May 15-18
Where: Various locations in Miami Beach
Web: sobefilmfest.com
DOWNTOWN DELRAY BEACH MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND CRAFT FESTIVAL – If you haven’t been to this bustling but pretty city in a while, this would be a good time to go. Paintings, jewelry, glass work and pottery are just few of the kinds of things you will be able to explore and purchase. It also includes a Green Market with gourmet sauces, handmade soaps and orchids.
When: May 24-25
Where: Delray Beach Tennis Center and other locations in downtown Delray Beach
Web: artfestival.com/festivals/27th-annual-downtown-delray-beach-memorial-day-weekend-craft-festival
THE HOME & DESIGN REMODELING SHOW – Every year, this show features the latest trends and brands in the home improvement industry. Here are just some of the areas that will be covered: kitchen and bathroom remodeling, custom closets, flooring and other surfaces, artificial turf, landscaping, patio design, outdoor kitchens and pergolas, impact windows and doors, smart homes technology and security, furniture, mattresses, solar energy solutions and roofing and gutters. There will be hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of projects to check out.
When: May 23-26
Where: Palm Beach County Convention Center, West Palm Beach
Web: homeshows.net
PARAISO MIAMI SWIM WEEK – You will be able to preview the newest summer swimwear and resort wear trends at this four-day festival over the Memorial Day holiday weekend. There will be daily runway shows, featuring style titans and promising newcomers to watch. Special events and parties will abound. Three VIP packages will get your varying degrees of luxury treatment.
When: May 29-June 1
Where: The Paraiso Fashion Tent at Collins Park for the runway shows and various other locations in Miami Beach for the special events and parties.
Web: paraisomiamibeach.com
I.CARE TRASH DERBY – Take a break from your vacation in the Keys or just head on down to do a good dead for our oceans and/or beaches. The derby includes one and a half days of debris collection, followed by the finale, a family friendly festival that includes food, music, games, an awards ceremony, raffles, a silent auction and environmentally-minded vendors.
When: May 1-4
Where: Offshore and the beaches from Key largo to Key West for the debris collecting and Founders Park in Islamorada for the festival
Web: icaretrashderby.com
 Silver Spurs Rodeo, Kissimmee —  Silver Spurs Rodeo
FLORIDA AMERICANA MUSIC FESTIVAL – Pack your camping gear and head to this four-day fest filled with dozens of the country’s best acts in folk, bluegrass, rockabilly, funk, soul, alt country and other genres, all while enjoying the picturesque Florida scenery and rolling hills of Brooksville’s Florida Sand Music Ranch. Party with friends old and new, enjoy great food and shop among the various vendors selling clothing, artwork, jewelry and other one-of-a-kind items. The musical lineup includes Dr. Bacon, Ain’t Sisters, Firewater Tent Revival, Applebutter Express, Have Gun Will Travel and other favorites.
When: April 17-20
Where: Florida Sand Music Ranch, Brooksville
Web: https://www.foggylongbritches.com/florida-americana-music-fest
MOUNT DORA BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL – This free fest celebrates the peak of Lake County’s blueberry season with a bounty of juicy foods, drinks and products produced and sold by local farmers and families. Among some of the highlights are blueberry pancakes, blueberry beer and wine and a blueberry pie eating contest. Take some home by buying some fresh berry baskets or joining a blueberry picking tour and plan an extra day to spend some time in the quaint and lovely Mount Dora.
When: April 26-27
Where: Donnelly Park, Mount Dora
Web: https://www.mountdorablueberryfestival.com/
LEESBURG BIKEFEST – ‘Tis the season of perfect riding weather in Florida, and the Leesburg Bikefest draws more than a quarter million people from all over the world to enjoy the party. Packed into 30 square blocks over three days, there’s no shortage of entertainment with nonstop free concerts, bike shows, demonstrations, bikini contests and lots of delicious BBQ and other food vendors. Among this year’s main stage bands: Dirty Honey, Fuel, Jasmine Cain and the Ray Nichols Band.
When: April 25-27
Where: Downtown Leesburg
Web: http://www.leesburgbikefest.com/
APOPKA ART AND FOLIAGE FESTIVAL – What better way to celebrate a Florida spring weekend than this adorable showcase of original artwork and expertly grown foliage that ranges from bonsai to begonias to butterfly plants? Pick up a handmade hat or a beautiful glass garden ornament while dancing to lively folk and acoustic bands and letting the little ones hit the kids’ play zone. Many foliage cultivators and “plant doctors” will be on hand to give tips on keeping your green, leafy babies healthy, and student artists and musicians will be showing off their best work.
When: April 26-27
Where: Kit Land Nelson Park, Apopka
Web: https://www.apopkaartandfoliagefestival.org/
TAMPA RIVERFEST – Celebrating at the start of every May, Riverfest is a free, two-day party that spans several parks along downtown Tampa’s beautiful Riverwalk. Spend a weekend filled with family-friendly activities, including a water ski show, yoga on the lawn, a wiener dog derby, a lantern parade, a paddle invasion and a balloon glow show on both nights at sunset. Enjoy a live concert series at the Curtis Hixon Park stage, and feast on local cuisine at Friday’s Taste of the Riverwalk and Saturday’s Taco Fest. Be sure to wear comfy shoes to do some strolling or hop on a water taxi or free streetcar to hit some other downtown landmarks.
When: May 2-3
Where: Curtis Hixon Park, Riverwalk and Water Works Park, downtown Tampa
Web: https://thetampariverwalk.com/events/riverfest.html
155TH SILVER SPURS RODEO – Rodeo cowboys from all over the country compete in traditional rodeo action, including bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, team roping, steer wrestling, and women's barrel racing. In between the serious stuff, a rodeo clown entertains the crowds and the Silver Spurs Quadrille team perform a square dance on horseback. This time-honored extreme sport has been drawing crowds and delighting fans in Central Florida since the 1940s, providing air-conditioned entertainment, snacks, beer and other concessions to its annual events.
When: May 30-31
Where: Osceola Heritage Park/Silver Spurs Arena, Kissimmee
Web: https://www.silverspursrodeo.com/
SARASOTA INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL – Both seasoned racers and beginning paddlers alike can get involved in this colorful, exhilarating and highly competitive dragon boat race, which takes place along a 400-acre lake in beautiful Nathan Benderson Park. For those who just want to watch, there is plenty to explore in between events, such as the vendor-packed Health and Wellness Village offering services and products and the Food Truck Bazaar with tons of delicious options. Stick around for the grand trophy and medal ceremony at the end.
When: May 10
Where: Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota
Web: https://mldb.gwnevents.com/sarasota
HUNGARIAN FESTIVAL IN SARASOTA – Founded by the Gobal Friendship Foundation nearly two decades ago, this growing festival aims to bring authentic Hungarian culture, values, traditions, flavors and fun to the Suncoast community and beyond. Guests of all ages can enjoy two days of activities, rides, games and music, as well as real Hungarian stews, stuffed cabbage, pastries, crepes and other mouth-watering treats. Take home some handmade items from Hungarian vendors, including clothing, artwork and jewelry.
When: May 3-4
Where: Sarasota County Fairgrounds, Sarasota
Web: https://sarasotamagyarfesztival.com/
ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL FRINGE THEATRE FESTIVAL – This 14-day arts festival is one of Orlando’s most unique and inclusive cultural events, offering hundreds of un-juried, uncensored, and highly talented theatre, music, dance performances and artist displays of all genres, as well as a free outdoor music festival, food and drinks. Kids Fringe for children and families also returns, bringing entertaining performances by young artists, along with workshops, hands-on art activities and more. For art lovers, Visual Fringe offers a gallery, art market, workshops, classes, crafts, demonstrations and selfie backdrops.
When: May 13-26
Where: Loch Haven Park, Orlando
Web: https://www.orlandofringe.org/
WELCOME TO ROCKVILLE – Some of the hottest names in rock converge on the Daytona International Speedway for this epic, four-day outdoor music concert featuring more than 150 bands on five stages. This year’s lineup includes Korn, Green Day, Linkin Park, Alice in Chains, Rob Zombie, Insane Clown Posse, Of Mice & Men, Bad Omens, Mudvayne, Bush and dozens of other bands and artists. The site offers surrounding campground rentals, various food and bar vendors throughout the property, amusement rides, tiki and wine bars and lots of merch tents.
When: May 15-18
Where: Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach
Web: https://welcometorockville.com/
SABOR LATINO LATIN MUSIC FEST – Celebrate the rhythmic beats, savory flavors and electrifying energy that define the essence of Latin America at this all-day, outdoor fest for all ages. Bring your dancing shoes and enjoy a diverse lineup of talented musicians playing salsa, merengue, bachata and reggaetón, as well as a DJ tent for some high-energy hits. Several vendors will be on site cooking and filling the air with the mouthwatering aromas of empanadas, tacos and other Latin cuisine, and there will be plenty of activities for kids, too.
When: May 3
Where: Zephyrhills Municipal Airport and Community Venue, Zephyrhills
Web: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sabor-latino-latin-music-fest-2025-tickets-1219676468149
MAYFAIRE BY-THE-LAKE – One of Central Florida’s largest and oldest free outdoor art festivals, the 54-year-old Mayfaire By-the-Lake is hosted by the Polk Museum of Art and features more than 150 artist booths circled around beautiful Lake Morton. Check out thought-proving and fun works of art from painters, sculptors, etchers, glass blowers, photographers and other artisans from all over the country and enjoy the beautiful lakeside atmosphere. Don’t miss the belly dancers, musicians and other performers while you’re there, and check out the free arts and crafts activities at the kids zone.
When:  May 10-11
Where: Lake Morton, downtown Lakeland
Web: https://www.mayfairebythelake.org/
THUNDER ON COCOA BEACH – This exciting, four-day offshore boat racing event brings some of the world’s fastest speedboats and lots of adrenaline to the shores of the Space Coast, creating some serious buzz in the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy live entertainment, parties and some of the top race teams in the world competing in various classes, with Class 1 reaching speeds over 175 miles per hour. After each day’s races, meet the racers at the downtown Cocoa Beach block party or dance the night away at the after-parties.
When: May 15-18
Where: Cocoa Beach
Web: https://www.thunderoncocoabeach.com/
ORLANDO CARNIVAL DOWNTOWN – Continuing its run of more than three decades, the multicultural Orlando Carnival Downtown returns, celebrating Caribbean life and customs with an entire weekend of brilliantly colored, feather- and sequin-adorned costumes, dancing, rhythmic music, spicy dishes and cocktails. This year’s celebration begins with a special Carnival on the Runway fashion show, followed by various dance and music parties, then the main event: A Sunday parade and concert that includes vendors selling delicious foods from Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, Guyana, Barbados and other Caribbean nations.
When: May 3 & 23-25
Where: Downtown Orlando
Web: www.orlandocarnivaldowntown.com
DERBY AT THE PIER – Throw on your finest seersucker duds and most ornate wide-rimmed hats and watch the Kentucky Derby on a giant screen set up right in the middle of beautiful Spa Beach Park on the edge of downtown St. Petersburg. This 21-and-up fundraising event supports a local school by selling admission and raffle tickets while also throwing a fancy waterfront party that includes food trucks, live music, Derby-themed games and bars serving up mint juleps and other fun cocktails.
When: May 3
Where: Spa Beach Park on the St. Pete Pier, St. Petersburg
Web: https://www.13uglymen.com/derby-party
ST. PETE TACOS & TEQUILA FESTIVAL – Jam out to live tunes and sample tacos and other tasty Mexican dishes from more than 30 vendors at this two-day fest nestled in the gorgeous waterfront Vinoy Park, located right on the edge of downtown St. Petersburg. Guests can also purchase ice cold Coronas, a variety of flavorful cocktails and margaritas, seltzers and frozen concoctions, as well as soft drinks and fresh squeezed juices. Entertainment includes Lucha Libre wrestling, mariachi bands, a taco-eating contest and live mural artist demonstrations.
When: May 9-10
Where: Vinoy Park, St. Petersburg
Web: https://www.stpetetacos.com/
 DIGITAL GRAFFITI,  Alys Beach– Digital Graffiti
BLUE ANGELS PRACTICES — Ooh and aah while the world-famous pilots fly at max speeds of 700 miles per hour while defying physics with dazzling aerial feats. This is a great chance to catch the Pensacola-based Blue Angels at their home base while they prepare for the air show season. Gates open at 9:30 a.m., with practice sessions beginning at 10:30 a.m. There is open bleacher seating for about 500 people in the outdoor viewing area. After practice, set aside time to explore the museum which houses more than 150 restored, storied aircraft like the FJ4-Fury (used to hunt down MiG-15s during the Korean War) and Que Sera Sera (first aircraft to land at the South Pole). On Wednesdays, the Blues host autograph sessions and guests can talk with the pilots.
When: April 2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30
Where: National Naval Aviation Museum at Naval Air Station Pensacola
Web: Blue Angels Practice Schedule 2025 – NNAM
EASTER IN THE NATION’S OLDEST CITY — It always seems that just when St. Augustine has finally put away the last of its Christmas decor that it's already time to turn to the page to spring, and more specifically Easter. The 10-day celebration always kicks off with the Royal Family Transfer of Power (April 10), which commemorates the city’s Spanish heritage and the reign of King Juan Carlos and Queen Marianna who commissioned Castillo de San Marcos in 1672 to protect the city. Then there's the Blessing of the Fleet (April 13) in which the Bishop of the Diocese of St. Augustine blesses all seafaring vessels for the coming year on Palm Sunday. Of course, there are traditional Easter fun like beachfront sunrise services, Easter egg hunts and the city’s 68th annual Easter Parade (April 19) that includes parade floats, marching bands, drill teams and is led by the Royal Family. After Easter Services, all are invited to dress in their most outrageous Easter hats and costumes for the Easter Promenade (April 20) where prizes are awarded in categories like “Best Dressed Couple” or “Most Creative Hat”.
When: April 10-20
Where: St. Augustine
Web: Easter Activities & the St. Augustine Easter Parade 2025 | St. Augustine & Ponte Vedra, FL
QUARTER HORSE COMPETITIONS — Quarter horses, known for their quick bursts of speed and ability to handle intricate maneuvers, are perfect for reining, cutting, barrel racing, roping and trail riding. Participants and guests will get to watch two weeks of live competition in Florida’s horse country during the Orange Blossom Classic and A Sudden Impulse. All eight shows are sanctioned by the American Quarter Horse Association and the events have a combined prize purse of $665,000. The World Equestrian Center complex has on-site hotels, pet-friendly rental units, a spa, restaurants and luxury shopping.
When: April 16-20, 22-26
Where: World Equestrian Center, Ocala
Web: https://worldequestriancenter.com/ocala-fl/equestrian-events/shows/orange-blossom-classic-a-sudden-impulse/
FLORA-BAMA MULLET TOSS — The name alone paints a picture of ’80s men tossing back their hair (Business in the front; party in the back, right?) in slo-mo while Never Gonna Give You Up plays in the background. Although we're talking about a different kind of mullet toss, the reality of this annual event is just as wacky. People descend in droves to the the beachfront Flora-Bama Package Lounge for the weekend to throw a dead mullet (ie. the fish!) across the Florida state line into Alabama. The winner is the person(s) who throws it the furthest (there are multiple age ranges for kids, men and women). Everyone who participates receives a commemorative t-shirt. Should bonus points be awarded if you have a mullet and throw a mullet? We think so.
When: April 25-27
Where: Perdido Key
Web: https://www.florabama.com/mullet-toss
PENSACOLA CRAWFISH FESTIVAL — For 40 years, Pensacola has brought the traditional music and food of the Big Easy to the gulf coast during the Crawfish Festival. It also brings the flavors. Specifically, thousands of pounds of fresh crawfish are brought in from Louisiana to The City of Five Flags for its annual party at Seville Square & Fountain Park. The crawfish is boiled, fried or steamed and then served in traditional Cajun fare like jambalaya, etouffee, boudin, gumbo and po-boys. This year’s music lineup is still TBD but the fest always features three days of live entertainment. Also includes arts and crafts vendors, local food trucks and a Crawfish Eating Contest!
When: April 25-27
Where: Pensacola
Web: https://www.fiestapensacola.org/crawfish-festival 
MUSICAL ECHOES NATIVE AMERICAN FLUTE FESTIVAL — Let the haunting strains of the Native American flute melodies tell a story. The annual festival features a lineup of renowned Native American flutists, singers and dancers that span the different North American tribes. Also includes Native American artisans.
When: April 25-27
Where: Fort Walton Beach
Web: musicalechoes.org
CARRABELLE RIVERFRONT FESTIVAL — Spend a day exploring the Forgotten Coast in the laid back town of Carrabelle, which sits on the gulf coast at the mouth of the Carrabelle River. The community’s annual fest always takes place on the fourth Saturday in April and includes family-friendly activities, arts and craft vendors and live music. There will be funnel cakes and shaved ice and kettle corn, but locals know to save room for the fresh catch specialties like conch fritters and fried shrimp. While there, make time to visit the “World’s Smallest Police Station” (true!) and the Crooked River Lighthouse which is only two miles from town.
When: April 26
Where: Carrabelle
Web: https://www.carrabelle.org/event/2025-carrabelle-riverfront-festival
PALM COAST SONGWRITERS FESTIVAL — The sunshine state is a beacon for songwriters looking to leave winter behind and spend a few days performing and talking about their craft. From Pensacola to Palm Coast in November through May, your chances of finding an opportunity to engage with other music lovers is high. Very high. Palm Coast’s annual event rounds out the singer-songwriter festival season just before summer drops. This year’s event will host 45 songwriters who’ve penned more than 175 #1 hits for the creme de la creme of the country music scene:  Think George Strait, Taylor Swift, Tim McGraw, Miley Cyrus, Blake Shelton, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood, Trisha Yearwood and Kenny Rogers. You’ll learn the stories behind the songs as told by thes artists – Anthony Smith (Cowboys Like Us), Brady Seals (God Bless Texas), Chris DeStafano (The Champion), Jeffrey Steele (What Hurts the Most) and Jessi Alexander (The Climb) – who wrote them. Guests can buy single-day tickets or four-day festival passes.
When: April 30 – May 4
Where: Daytona State College Amphitheater, Palm Coast
Web: https://www.palmcoastsongwritersfestival.com
ROMANZA FESTIVALE OF THE ARTS — St. Augustine’s two-week salute to arts and culture includes local and national performers in various venues with many of the events being free. The fest has three headlining classical music events:
When: May 2-18
Where: St. Augustine
Web: https://www.romanzafestivale.com
ISLE OF EIGHT FLAGS SHRIMP FESTIVAL — Fernandina’s biggest party of the year salutes northeast Florida’s shrimping industry. Of course, all festival goers eventually make their way to the community’s waterfront to munch on fried, grilled or blackened shrimp. The picturesque view includes moored shrimp boats that bring in the day’s harvest. The fest actually kicks off on Thursday night (May 1) with the annual parade. This year’s theme is “Diamonds are a Shrimp’s Best Friend”. Guests will also enjoy walking through the historic downtown streets lined with more than 300 arts and crafts vendors. Other events include the Pirate-themed contests for kids and adults, the Blessing of the Fleet and Decorated Shrimp Boat Contest (Sunday) and the 28th Annual Shrimp Festival 5K Run/Walk (Saturday). The fest includes three days of live entertainment.
When: May 2-4
Where: Fernandina
Web: https://www.shrimpfestival.com
ISLAND GROVE BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL — Located on U.S. 301 just 20 miles east of Gainesville, the community of Hawthorne has long been an agricultural growing region in the lush center of the state. It annually celebrates the blueberry yield with a family-friendly fest that includes homemade blueberry treats, arts and crafts vendors, a blueberry cake contest, food trucks and a kids zone. The fest happens during the heart of the growing season and guests are welcome to stop at any of the local you-pick farms like Aunt Zelma’s Blueberries, Hidden Bear Farm and Hatcher Farms Organic Blueberries. If you’re looking for a whole day of adventures, make time to stop at one of these other local attractions: Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings State Park, Island Grove Winery and Tasting House and The Orange Shop.
When: May 3
Where: Hawthorne
Web: https://www.facebook.com/IGBlueberryFest
ST. AUGUSTINE FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL — This fest, named one of the state’s top 10 wine festivals by USA Today, has a new home for 2025. The annual Grand Tasting, which features more than 300 wine, beer and spirit choices, will move to Ancient City Farmstead. The 1,500-acre event venue boasts real Florida charm, lush greenery and a historic barn and stables. It’s also only 10 minutes from the city’s downtown which makes it easier to enjoy the city’s dining scene and plan a weekend getaway at one of the historic B&B’s. The main event includes live music and chef cooking demos with tasting samples. Other festival events include the Harvest Awards and Premier Wine Tasting; Smoke on the Walk, a BBQ, wine, beer and spirits tasting; and the Mother’s Day Jazz Brunch.
When: May 7-11
Where: Ancient City Farmstead, St. Augustine
Web: https://staugustinefoodandwinefestival.com
SOUTHERN SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL — Enjoy spring’s last hurrah when the Southern Shakespeare Company performs Henry IV, Part 1 under the stars. This year’s production guest stars Wil Johnson from HBO’s House of the Dragon, and is directed by Conner Wilson from Broadway’s Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Emmy Award winner Kelsey Scott (12 Years a Slave and The Walking Dead) and comedian Kevin McDonald (The Kids in the Hall and Lilo and Stitch) will also perform during the 10th anniversary event. The Bardlings, the company’s youth acting troupe, will also perform a streamlined version of The Tempest on Saturday and Sunday. The festival is free and seats are first-come, first-served at the Adderley Amphitheater. Everyone is welcome to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets. Arts and food vendors also will be on site.
When: May 8-11
Where: Cascades Park, Tallahassee
Web: https://southernshakespearefestival.org
WILD AMELIA NATURE FESTIVAL — Amelia Island’s diverse ecosystem is home to seven sites on the Great Florida Birding Trail as well as more than 1,500 acres of barrier islands, a greenway, sand dunes and maritime hammock. The event uses ecotours, a Sunset River Cruise, Garden Party, community beach cleanup and Wild Storytime to educate participants on the necessity of conserving these areas. In addition, the Eco-Expo (May 17) includes conservation-minded exhibitors and is one of the featured events during Nassau County’s Opening the Beaches. For the first time, this year’s Eco-Expo will include a Children’s Entrepreneur Market that only includes vendors ages five to 17! The expo also includes environmental exhibits, live music, food trucks, a beer garden, hand-on nature projects for kids, bounce houses and more.
When: May 9-17
Where: Amelia Island
Web: https://keepnassaubeautiful.org/programs/wildamelia
ROCK THE COUNTRY — This music fest unites legendary performers in the rock and country music scene for a 10-city, cross-country roadtrip. The 2025 headliners include chart-topping superstars Kid Rock and Nickelback. Each stop on the festival’s tour includes a different lineup of artists. Some of the featured names joining the headliners in Ocala include Hank Williams Jr., Tracey Lawrence, Gavin Adcock, Jo Dee Messina and Diamond Rio. Guests can buy single-day tickets for festival passes.
When: May 9-10
Where: Florida Horse Park, Ocala
Web: https://rockthecountry.com/ocala-fl
MOONLIT CLIMB — Treat your mom to both a morning and night out on Mother’s Day! To help celebrate all the special women in our lives, the Crooked River Lighthouse is hosting a moonlit after-hours lighthouse climb. The evening includes live “Dance of the Butterflies” performances by the Tallahassee State College dancers. All performers will be surrounded by the glowing moon flower lights to help set the mood. Visitors wanting to experience the birds-eye coastal views from the top of the lighthouse can sign up for one of the 15-minute time slots. Also includes a bonfire and after-hours tours of the Keeper’s House Museum.
When: May 11
Where: Crooked River Lighthouse, Carrabelle
Web: https://www.carrabelle.org/event/celebrate-the-flower-moon-at-crooked-river-lighthouse
SUNFLOWER FIELDS FOREVER — Experience the magic of walking through six acres of sunflowers with blue skies and perfect puffy clouds overhead. Because Mother Nature rules the roost, the exact date the fields open for visitors usually happens in early to mid-May. Kids will also enjoy being able to visit with farm animals, play on the Jump Pad or help pick the perfect sunflower bouquet. Family photo ops are included with admission. Register online with Amazing Grace Family Farms or follow it on social media to get updates.
When: mid-May
Where: Amazing Grace Family Farms, Green Cove Springs
Web: https://www.agcropmaze.com/sunflowers
DIGITAL GRAFFITI — For 18 years, the reflective, all white architecture of Alys Beach has provided a blank canvas for some of the world’s top artists, designers and photographers to project their works and set the night aglow. Art lovers have taken notice. National Geographic has named the fest one of the “Top Unconventional Art Destinations Around the World”, the Smithsonian Magazine recognized it as one of the top five “Light-Project Art Festivals” and it was honored by CODAawards as the winner of the “Collaboration of Design + Art for Residential Projects”. Although we’ve regularly featured the event in our calendar, it’s fantastic to see the rest of the country showing it some love. Each year features new original art works chosen through a juried selection process and more than 70 works will be vying for the $10,000 in cash prizes. During the day, guests can attend panel discussions on topics like the intersection of art and architecture or working as an artist. But night time is the right time.  There are two options to see the works after dark: Tickets for Friday night are for the 21 and up crowd and include an all-inclusive gourmet food and beverage experience lining the festival path. Saturday tickets are geared for families with food trucks and beverage stands along the path.
When: May 16-17
Where: Alys Beach
Web: https://www.digitalgraffiti.com
FLORIDA FOLK FESTIVAL — The 73rd annual three-day fest salutes the music, dance, stories, crafts and food that are unique to the state’s cultural history. It includes more than 300 folk, blues, gospel, country, Latin, jazz, Caribbean and zydeco performances by well-known Florida and national recording artists. But the festival is more than just a live music showcase. Each year, the Folklife Stage hosts demos, traditions, superstitions and weather lore that supports this year’s theme: Earth. Guests can participate in jam sessions, take workshops, sample local eats and take dance lessons. Also includes a kids zone, Banjo & Fiddle Contest, arts and crafts vendors and more.
When: May 23-25
Where: Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, White Springs
Web: https://www.floridastateparks.org/FloridaFolkFestival
JACKSONVILLE JAZZ FESTIVAL — For more than forty years, Jacksonville has welcomed jazz greats and up-and-comers to perform at the city’s largest free music festival. This year’s lineup continues its expansion to other genres by locking in award-winning jazz ensembles like the Branford Marsalis Quartet and Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue with hip-hop’s The Roots and the soul and funk legends, Kool & The Gang. Other artists filling out the three-day lineup include Janelle Monae, Spyro Gyra, Maysa, Boney James and Connie Han. The University of North Florida’s Jazz Ensemble I and the Douglas Anderson School of the Arts Jazz Combo also perform.
When: May 23-25
Where: Jacksonville
Web: http://jacksonvillejazzfest.com
GULF COAST JAM — PCB kicks off the summer beach season with Blake Shelton, Tyler Childers, Lainey Wilson, Sam Hunt and Jordan Davis lighting up its gulf front stage. The four-day fest which invites guests to “Come for the music, stay for the coast” includes 24 country and southern rock hitmakers.
When: May 29 – June 1
Where: Frank Brown Park, Panama City Beach
Web: https://gulfcoastjam.com
SANTA ROSA COUNTY SHERIFF’S RODEO — Last year’s event was such a rip-roaring success, that the Sheriff’s Rodeo is locked and loaded for round two! It pairs professional rodeo events — bull riding, barrel racing and steer wrestling — with Wild West-style entertainment and a K9 – SWAT demo. All high-octane events are family friendly. The rodeo-themed demo pairs the sheriff’s best K9s with tactical officers to track and capture “wild” outlaws. Also includes food and merchandise vendors, kid-friendly attractions and meet-and-greets.
When: May 30-31
Where: Santa Rosa County Fairgrounds, Milton
Web: https://srsostarfoundation.org/event/sheriffs-rodeo
 
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