Category: Events

Coffee Meets Canvas: Ya La’ford Unveils New Artwork at Kahwa Coffee Gathering

ST. PETERSBURG, FL – Ya La’ford, a renowned visual artist, is releasing the newest
canister artwork created through a partnership with Kahwa Coffee and the St. Pete Art Alliance. Net proceeds from the sales of this cannister will benefit the St Petersburg Arts Endowment at the Community Foundation Tampa Bay. The unveiling event will take place on Friday, Apr. 5, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Savant on Second, located at 634 2nd Ave. S, in St. Petersburg.

This gathering is open to the public, offering a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts, coffee lovers, and the community to experience her extraordinary talent. The exhibition will feature a stunning display of the canisters, which are not only captivating works of art but also available for purchase.

“The artwork I create serves as a powerful medium for self-expression and storytelling. It allows me to explore and communicate ideas, emotions, and experiences that words alone may struggle to capture. Just as a cup of high-quality coffee awakens the senses and provides a moment of pure enjoyment, my artwork aims to evoke a similar response. The intersection of creative expression and the appreciation of fine coffee is a fascinating connection. Both art and coffee have the ability to inspire, uplift, and create meaningful experiences. Just as a perfectly brewed cup of coffee can transport us to a different time and place, art has the power to transport us to new perspectives and emotions. By embracing and celebrating the intersection of art and the enjoyment of high-quality coffee, we can create a harmonious blend of
sensory experiences that enriches our lives and connects us on a deeper level. It is my hope that through my artwork, viewers can find moments of reflection, inspiration, and connection, just as they do when savoring a delightful cup of coffee,” said La’ford.

“Partnering with the St Pete Arts alliance the last year has been a true testament to the depth of arts in this community. We are so proud to debut the next artist can with Ya La’ford, a nationally recognized artist who promotes the Tampa bay art scene with every opportunity. It is an honor to support SPAA and the work they do to ensure artist growth in St. Petersburg,” said Raphael Perrier, co-founder of Kahwa Coffee.

Ya La’ford is a highly acclaimed artist known for her thought-provoking and visually striking creations. Her works have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums around the world, including Galerie Myrtis. This is a unique chance to enjoy both coffee and art in the same space.

Bern’s Winefest returns April 13 to April 21, tickets on sale March 2

TAMPA, FL – Bern’s Steak House, in partnership with its sister properties Haven and the Epicurean Hotel, has announced the return of Bern’s Winefest, presented by Laxer Family Foundation and benefitting the Bern Laxer Memorial Scholarship, in collaboration with the James Beard Foundation from April 13 to April 21. 

Now in its 27th year, this annual wine gathering week is set to impress attendees with a lineup of exclusive tastings, educational seminars, and exciting dinners, catering to the palates of wine aficionados and food enthusiasts. Ticket will go live on Saturday, March 2 at 10 a.m. EST, and are available on the Laxer Family Foundation website. 

The festival honors the Bern’s family brands, encompassing Bern’s Steak House, Haven and Bern’s Fine Wines & Spirits, which along with the Epicurean Hotel and renowned global wineries, echo the brand’s commitment to excellence and maintaining one of the nation’s most extensive, privately held wine collections. 

This year’s schedule is as follows:  

April 13 – Heitz Cellar Blending Seminar & Picnic Lunch, 11 a.m.: Begin with the distinguished Heitz Cellar Blending Seminar & Picnic Lunch at the Epicurean Hotel. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in a premier wine-blending seminar in the theater, culminating in a delightful wine-country picnic on the terrace. Special guest Brittany Sherwood, Heitz Cellar’s winemaker, graces the event, marking a fabulous start to the festival. Bern’s Steak House sommeliers will lead guests through the creation of a special bottling for next year, exploring winemaking’s intricate art. Post-seminar, guests can enjoy a gourmet picnic by Chef Jonathan Atanacio and his culinary team from Élevage SOHO Kitchen & Bar, including a complimentary bottle of the special Lot-C91 Cabernet blend for later enjoyment. $250 per person. Tickets Available Here

April 14 – Haven Art Brunch with Cass Contemporary, 11 a.m.: Celebrate the art of fine dining at the Haven Art Brunch, which pairs a four-course brunch by Executive Chef Chad Johnson with Código 1530 Tequila and Perrier-Jouët Champagne. In collaboration with CASS Contemporary, enjoy the unveiling of commissioned artworks amid a culinary feast with exquisite drinks from Pernod Ricard and Perrier Jouët. Last year’s festival art by Fintan Magee adorns Bern’s new office, alongside a collection featuring Tristan Eaton, Dalek, FAITH XLVII, PichiAvo, Joram Roukes, and Paola Delfin at our South Tampa venues. $300 per person. Tickets Available Here 

April 15 – Bern’s Steak House Dinner Featuring Florida Steakhouses, 6 p.m.: Bring your appetite for a collaboration dinner at Bern’s Steak House. This event showcases Florida’s premier steakhouses, offering a fusion of fine wine and gourmet dishes in the Rhone Room. A gathering of celebrated Florida chefs – including Ian Lynch of Cowford Chophouse (Jacksonville); Irv Miller of Jackson’s Steakhouse (Pensacola); Malyna Si of Capa (Lake Buena Vista) and Tyler Kineman of Knife & Spoon (Orlando)- will deliver an exclusive dining experience that spotlights the culinary prowess of the Sunshine State. $450 per person. Tickets Available Here

April 16 – Bern’s Steak House Bordeaux Dinner, 6 p.m.: Experience the Bordeaux Dinner at Bern’s Steak House, featuring Clarence Dillon Wines‘ prestigious selections, including Haut-Brion and La Mission Haut-Brion. Join Executive Chef Chad Johnson and Chef de Cuisine Brent Hunt for a five-course culinary journey, complete with a sumptuous dessert by Pastry Chef Hannah Thomas. In the Bordeaux room, enjoy guided tastings with Gerard Blanloeil, alongside Bern’s expert sommeliers, for a night of unparalleled indulgence. $700 per person. Tickets Available Here

April 17 – Laurent-Perrier Champagne Dinner and Seminar, 6 p.m.: The Epicurean Hotel invites guests to prepare for a bubbly evening ahead at the Laurent-Perrier Champagne Dinner and Seminar. Executive Chef Jonathan Atanacio will delight with a four-course dinner, perfectly paired with Laurent-Perrier Champagnes. $275 per person. Tickets Available Here

April 18 – Bern’s Steak House Legacy Dinner, Private Cellar Collection, 6 p.m.: The ultimate Winefest experience, this exclusive dinner in the Harry Waugh Dessert Room features a five-course meal paired with rare vintages from the Bern’s cellar, curated by David Laxer, Chris Belk, and Brad Dixon. This event promises a unique dining experience, supporting the Bern Laxer Memorial Scholarship Fund. $1,500 per person. Tickets Available Here

April 19 – Haven Winemaker Dinner Featuring Darioush, 6 p.m.: Haven hosts this exciting celebration of Darioush Khaledi’s exceptional wines. Enjoy a five-course dinner by Executive Chef Chad Johnson and Chef de Cuisine Gerry Sizemore, with each dish complementing the featured wines.  Khaledi’s journey from immigrant to winery founder is a testament to the American dream, offering guests an inspiring narrative alongside exquisite dining.  $450 per person. Tickets Available Here

Apr. 21 – Grand Tasting Experience, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.: The Festival concludes under the big tent and expands into Haven with the Grand Tasting Experience hosted by Bern’s Steak House, Haven, and the Epicurean Hotel. This event invites guests to explore a world of flavors, featuring global wines and regional delicacies. Enjoy live music by favorite returning band, Electric Avenue; Haven’s exceptional cheese display, and Bern’s Fine Wines & Spirits pop-up shop, curated by Bern’s Company Wine Director, Chris Belk. $500 per person.  Tickets Available Here

Ticketed guests are encouraged to extend their Bern’s Winefest experience by booking a stay at The Epicurean Hotel for a special rate as low as $289 per night, while inventory lasts. This rate does not include tickets, guests must purchase tickets online beginning March 2 at 10 a.m. to enjoy this rate.  

Note: To accommodate this year’s festivities, Haven will be closed for regular service beginning Friday, April 19 through April 23, reopening for service on Wed., April 24. 

Stay updated on the latest news and events happening in Tampa with me at TampaTodayNews.com. Subscribe today!

‘Mr. Worldwide’ Pitbull to perform at DAYTONA 500 pre-race show on Feb. 18

DAYTONA, FL – Daytona International Speedway has announced that Armando Christian Pérez, also known as Pitbull, will kick-off the Great American Race on Sunday, Feb. 18 by performing the pre-race show on the ballfield.

“There’s no better way to get the energy flowing than with Pitbull performing our pre-race concert for the Daytona 500,” said Daytona International Speedway President Frank Kelleher.

“Pitbull has continued to release major hits for over a decade and has shown tremendous longevity as an artist over the years. He’ll bring all the South Florida vibes and culture up here to put on quite the show for the 66th running of The Great American Race.”

Pitbull announced the next iteration of the “TRACKHOUSE” album series, set for release in February. The lyrics and cover of the EP titled “TRACKHOUSE: Daytona 500 Edition” reflect key elements of NASCAR’s biggest race. Pitbull joined Trackhouse Racing as a co-owner in 2021, connecting the world of music and racing to unite and inspire fans globally.

“It’s an honor to once again be part of the Great American Race, this time performing at the Daytona 500,” said Trackhouse team co-owner Armando Christian Perez (Pitbull).

“So Everyone start your engines, Get Ready and Dale!”

“Mr. Worldwide” has earned 46 total awards throughout his career, sold 25 million studio albums, has over 40 million monthly listeners on Spotify, and passed 18 billion YouTube views. Most recently his Billboard Hot 100 global hit “Give Me Everything,” featuring Ne-Yo, Afrojack and Nayer surpassed 1 Billion streams on Spotify, his third record to join Spotify’s billion streams club.

Pitbull will continue touring with fellow artists Enrique Iglesias and Ricky Martin on The Trilogy Tour during the first part of 2024.

The fun starts on Wednesday, Feb. 14, with DAYTONA 500 Qualifying Presented by Busch Light determining the front row for the DAYTONA 500. Then on Thursday, Feb. 15 the Bluegreen Vacations Duel will occur, where drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series battle for a chance to race on Sunday.  

Friday, Feb. 16 sees the return of the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series in the Fresh From Florida 250. Then a doubleheader on Saturday, Feb. 17, with the ARCA Menards Series Race, followed by the NASCAR Xfinity Series United Rentals 300.

Sunday, Feb. 18 directly following Pitbull’s performance, drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series will make their 2024 season debut in the 66th running of the DAYTONA 500 at 2:30 p.m. EST. 

The concert will take place on pit road, visible from the grandstands, but fans with a Hard Rock Bet Fanzone Pass can watch Pitbull’s set up-close. Fans can still purchase the Infield Admission and Hard Rock Bet Fanzone Access Package, even without grandstand admission, which also grants access to driver and VIP appearances, a glimpse into the NASCAR Cup Series garages, up-close access to driver introductions and more.

Fans who have already purchased a grandstand admission to The Great American Race can upgrade to include Hard Rock Bet Fanzone access to their experience. Fans are encouraged to reserve their place in history during Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth by logging onto DAYTONA500.com or by calling 1-800-PITSHOP. Additionally, fans can buy or sell reserved seats for the DAYTONA 500 by visiting SeatGeek, the Official Ticket Marketplace of NASCAR. 

Attention Space Cowboys, Cowboy Bebop Live is coming to Tampa Theatre Feb. 1

TAMPA, FL – Cowboy Bebop Live is coming to Tampa Theatre at 711 N Franklin St. on Thursday, Feb. 1 at 8 p.m. and tickets are now available for the concert. The concert is presented by The Bebop Bounty Big Band, a 14-piece jazz ensemble with top musicians from the Jazz Orchestra at Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando Jazz Orchestra, and Disney’s Main Street Philharmonic.

Poster for Cowboy Bebop Live in Tampa, Florida at Tampa Theatre.

Cowboy Bebop is a Japanese neo-noir space Western anime television series which aired on TV Tokyo and Wowow from 1998 to 1999. The anime was created and animated by Sunrise, led by a production team of director Shinichirō Watanabe, screenwriter Keiko Nobumoto, character designer Toshihiro Kawamoto, mechanical designer Kimitoshi Yamane, and composer Yoko Kanno, who are collectively billed as Hajime Yatate. The jazz hits created by Kanno are considered to be legendary and span numerous albums.

Cowboy Bebop made its U.S. debut on Adult Swim, the adult version of Cartoon Network and also recently had a Netflix series live-action created about the anime. The 26-episode anime is short, but masterful. Every episode takes you on a different journey in the lives of three bounty hunters, a hacker and a Corgi looking for bounties and outlaws.

Tickets are available online and start at $30: https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/55160517/cowboy-bebop-live-tampa-tampa-theatre

The tour will go around the nation, but kickoff here in Tampa, Florida.

Stay updated on the latest news and events happening in Tampa with me at TampaTodayNews.com. Subscribe today!

Copper Shaker Ybor City hosting NYE 2024 Dinner & Party

TAMPA, FL – Still looking for plans for New Year’s Eve 2024? Copper Shaker Ybor City is hosting a NYE 2024 dinner and also offering party reservations as well. Dinner guests will receive a Champagne toast and indulge in a selection of Copper Shaker classic dishes and reimagined favorites. The regular menu will also be available for those preferring classic menu items.

The 3-course Prix Fixe menu includes several options to choose from, such as Shrimp Cocktail, Beef & Peppers, Brasstown Steak, Spatchcock Spring Chicken and more. Dinner is $100 per person.

New Year’s Eve party seating will begin at 10 p.m. Reservations are recommended to toast to the New Year in style with bottle and/or cocktail service. Tables are expected to fill quickly. Music will be provided by DJ Chang

Reservations can be made online at coppershakerybor.com or by calling 813-344-4012. Copper Shaker Ybor is located at 1502 E 7th Ave.

Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival Returns Apr. 9-13, 2024

TAMPA, FL – The Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival is returning from Apr. 9 through Apr. 13, 2024 as a five-day celebration of unforgettable foodie events hosted with the support of the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners.

Organizers say this 2024’s festival promises to surpass last year’s inaugural edition with an expanded lineup, including a new “Experience Water Street” event on Wednesday evening; a Chef Showdown competition featuring last year’s champions who are all back to defend their titles; and a larger grand tasting event. In addition, the festival has announced celebrity chef Robert Irvine as the special celebrity guest for the festival who will add an extra layer of excitement to events.

Save $10 on tickets using this promo link: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/649477724357/?discount=TampaBayFoodies10

This year’s event will include a new charitable component earlier in the day on Friday with “Breakfast with Heroes,” a morning breakfast with 200 veterans, sponsored by Publix and hosted in partnership with the Robert Irvine Foundation, which helps at-need veterans and first responders in a variety of ways including training service dogs, making mental health and wellness services available, providing mobility devices for the disabled and much more.

“Bringing five days of unparalleled culinary enjoyment and excitement to Tampa Bay fills us with tremendous pride,” expressed Valerie Roy, Director of Marketing and Client Strategy at CI Management, the orchestrators of the Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival.

“Our dedicated production team, along with the region’s top culinary talents, have put together an even more stellar series of events than last year. These not only showcase the best of the local dining scene, but also capture the essence of the region’s vibrant gastronomy. We are thrilled to officially make this an annual celebration that unites both residents and visitors in appreciating and reveling in the flavors of Tampa Bay.”

“I’m thrilled to be a part of the Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival this year, as the celebrity chef host throughout the week,” says Irvine.

“It’s an incredible opportunity to experience and celebrate the vibrant culinary scene of my home, Tampa Bay. The festival is a spectacular showcase of local talent, creativity, and the diverse flavors that make this region so special. I’m looking forward to engaging with the community, sharing my passion for food, introducing everyone to my new spirits line, Irvine Spirits, and highlighting the amazing talent that Tampa Bay has to offer during this extraordinary gastronomic celebration.”

Find more information at tampabaywff.com.

Celebrate NYE 2024 in style at JW Marriott Tampa Water Street

TAMPA, FL – Looking to ring in 2024 with a luxurious bang? JW Marriott Tampa Water Street is offering a combo of delicious food and drinks on Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve, and tickets are available now. Start with a curated 7-course dining experience at Driftlight Steakhouse with paired libations. Then make your way upstairs to the 27th floor for a party on one of Tampa’s tallest rooftop bars at Beacon Tampa.

Guests can enjoy both experiences at Driftlight and Beacon for $347.50 per person. There is also the option to purchase a single ticket to Beacon Tampa for $225 per person.

Guests at Beacon will enjoy a four-hour premium bar, featured cocktails curated by mixologist, Sean Noddin; delectable food offerings, live entertainment, a Taittinger Champagne Toast at midnight and premium party favors. Noddin blends classic and innovation in each creation.

JW Marriott Tampa Water Street is one of Tampa’s premiere new hotels serving a luxury experience to Tampa’s newest district. The hotel is located just a few minutes from the Tampa Riverwalk and close to the Tampa Convention Center and Amalie Arena. Driftlight serves high-end steaks and seafood, and Beacon is Tampa’s newest rooftop cocktail bar on the 27th floor of the luxury hotel.

Reservations are required to enjoy the festivities.

Christmas Town returns today to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for holiday season

TAMPA, FL – Busch Gardens Christmas Town is back. The annual holiday festivities is running for 58 days now through Jan. 7, 2024. Guests can enjoy new light displays that will take over the Jungala area, all the way though Pantopia featuring a light-up walkthrough dragon. There will also be a 40-foot pixelated tree at Cheetah Plaza.

Several experiences are returning to Christmas Town including Santa’s North Pole Experience, presented by Coca-Cola, where jolly elves interact with guests as they guide them to see Santa in his workshop. Also returning is Storytime with Mrs. Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Friends at Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland.

Special events to enjoy also include Christmas On Ice, Elmo’s Christmas Wish, Three Kings Journey, Holly Jolly Express and more.

Holiday-themed food and drinks will return around the theme park as well for the gathering. Menu items this year include:

  • Chicken coq-au-vin served with red bliss mashed potatoes
  • Holiday Poutine, served with gravy, cheese curds and cranberry relish
  • Smoked turkey, stuffing, cranberry relish, gravy and Texas toast
  • Not-So-Traditional Holiday Ham – Pork shank braised with spiced pineapple & brown sugar with green beans
  • Mistletoe Margarita – Tequila, Monin pomegranate and a splash of lime
  • South for the Winter – Jack Daniels, Jack Daniels Honey, Monin cranberry, ginger and lime
  • Ginger Snap Mule – Spiced rum, Amaretto, ginger and a splash of lime

Guests can enjoy food and drinks discounted with a Christmas Town Sampler Lanyard. Lanyards start at $45 and are redeemable at numerous cabins located throughout the entire park. Samplers offer the best value for guests and will be available in quantities of five and 10. An exclusive 12-item Sampler for the same price as a 10-item is available for all Pass Members.

Guests must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages.

For a more exclusive experience, guests can book a Christmas Town VIP Tour which will include Front of the Line access to Santa’s House and Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland, a complimentary souvenir mug, reserved seating to the Christmas on Ice show, an opportunity to feed Flamingos, and more.

A Christmas Town Elite Tour is also available, including everything the VIP Tour offers plus a meet and greet with Santa and reserved seating for the fireworks show.

Find more information at christmastown.com.

iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour Returns to Tampa Nov. 26 with headliner Niall Horan

TAMPA, FL – The iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour is returning to Tampa on Sunday, Nov. 26 at Amalie Arena in downtown Tampa. This year’s featured artists include Niall Horan, Teddy Swims, Zara Larsson, Doechii, Paul Russell, Kaliii and Lawrence.

“Our annual iHeartRadio Jingle Ball lineup is one of our most anticipated of the year, and we’re excited to finally share who will be joining us on the road this season,” said Tom Poleman, Chief Programming Officer for iHeartMedia.

“This event always showcases the best in pop music and gives our listeners the chance to celebrate the holiday season alongside their favorite artists. We’re thrilled with this year’s artists and we can’t wait to see them put on a great show.”

Capital One is the national presenting partner of the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball
Tour for the 9th year in a row. Cardholders can redeem rewards for curated ticket packages on Capital One Entertainment.

Tampa is one of 10 cities having concerts including Los Angeles; Chicago;
Detroit; New York; Boston; Philadelphia; Washington, D.C.; Atlanta; and Miami/Fort Lauderdale.

Tickets are available at available at iHeartRadio.com/JingleBall.

“The Ryan Seacrest Foundation is honored to partner with the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour for its 10th year,” said Meredith Seacrest Leach, Executive Director & COO of the Ryan Seacrest Foundation.

“iHeart’s ongoing support allows us to continue expanding in children’s hospitals across the country, bringing creative and engaging experiences to patients and families when they need it most. iHeart has been a key partner of ours and we are forever grateful for their continued investment in the foundation.”

Ticket prices start at $25.50. Prices do not include facility fee or service charges. Advanced parking passes are available at ParkWhiz.com. Visit amaliearena.com or call 813.301.2500 for more information.

The FRIENDS Experience coming to Miami on Oct. 27

MIAMI, FL – The FRIENDS Experience is coming to South Florida at the Aventura Mall (19501 Biscayne Blvd.) on Friday, Oct. 27, 2023. The experience will run through Mar. 24, 2024. The experience was originally created to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the hit show and made by Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment, Original X Productions (OGX), and Warner Bros. Television Group.

Credit: Original X Productions

It is a throwback with photo opportunities in front of Rachel and Monica’s purple door, Chandler and Joey’s recliners, and more. Guests can enjoy a re-created Central Perk with the legendary orange couch as well as retail store with exclusive merchandise for purchase.

Credit: Original X Productions

“The FRIENDS Experience invites fans to step inside the world of the iconic series, relive their favorite moments and celebrate the show unlike ever before,” said Stacy Moscatelli, Chief Executive Officer of OGX.

“We are looking forward to bringing this one-of-a-kind experience to Aventura Mall and welcoming fans across Florida.”

The traveling event was voted on the list of USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Best New Attractions and included in CNN’s 12 Best Immersive Experiences around the world.

Admission starts at $27.50 plus taxes and fees. Guided group tours are also available for groups of 6 to 10 guests. Tickets are on-sale at friendstheexperience.com/miami.

Fans of the series can prepare for the experience by watching Friends: The Reunion special and all 236 episodes of the original series on Max.

Credit: Original X Productions