We’re excited to announce that the TBAYtoday Holiday Gift Guide will return this November. Want first dibs on a feature? Lock in your spot now + get 20% off with code EARLYBIRD20. Hurry — this offer ends Wednesday, Oct. 1.
Events
City Guide
Make it an October to remember
Catch some artists jammin’ on the Pig Jig stage with an iconic Gulf Coast sunset. | Photo by Tampa Pig Jig
Lucky you. You just found TBAYtoday’s Plan Ahead, a list of some of the biggest events to plan for that are taking place throughout Tampa Bay each month.
Take out your calendar, grab your day planner, or text all your friends — these are the top events we recommend heading to this month.
Theater
“Ghost Brothers of Darkland County” | Wednesday, Oct. 15-Sunday, Nov. 9 | Times vary | Shimberg Playhouse | $48 | This Southern Gothic musical features a “blues-inflected country score by legend John Mellencamp and a claustrophobic, refractured parable from the master of thriller Stephen King.”
Shows
14th Annual Tampa Pig Jig | Saturday, Oct. 18, Saturday, Oct. 18 | Times vary | Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, Tampa | $125+ | It’s a Tampa Bay tradition like no other with barbecue, drinks, and performances from massive country stars like Megan Moroney. Jamestown Revival, and Matt Nathanson.
Learn
Hocus Pocus Fall Social | 8:30 p.m. | Hyde House Heights, Tampa | $16.32 | Take a night for yourself at this “Hocus Pocus"-themed event featuring a pop-up bloom bar, braid bar, fairy hair workshop, and other delights.
Backed by research, this skincare restores skin vitality. | Photo by Timeline
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Don’t fret: You’ll be able to camp, hike, and romp around Chassahowitzka River Campground for at least the next four decades. The Southwest Florida Water Management District board just voted to approve a deal that keeps the park in public hands and accessible. (Tampa Bay Times)
Open
If you haven’t tried the modern delicacy that is “dirty soda,” here’s your chance. Sunny Sip, a new drive-thru soda brand, just opened in Largo. Editor Bailey can’t wait (no, really) to swing by for a Brightside — infused with hazelnut and white chocolate mocha. (I Love the Burg)
Coming Soon
The St. Pete Community Planter Project continues. This week folks will repot 250 terracotta pots lining the Grand Central District. Show up this Saturday, Sept. 27, at 8 a.m. to help replant, mulch the pots, and dine on free Pete’s Bagels. (I Love the Burg)
Drink
Munich’s got Oktoberfest, we’ve got “Octoberquest.” Common Dialect and The Independent are hosting a two-week brewsy celebration. Okay, but what’s that? For $25, you’ll score a custom stein + quest card to unlock a lineup of activities at both spots. (I Love the Burg)
Try This
This Saturday, Sept. 27 is National Ghost Hunting Day. And what better locale to hunt for a hopefully friendly ghost than Ybor City? Head to the historic The Mari Jean Hotel for ghost hunting 101 led by the Spirits of St. Petersburg. (Creative Loafing Tampa Bay)
Real Estate
A home with custom finishes by Walt Disney World contractors is almost on the market. A 4,728-sqft Anna Maria Island home with a waterfall, fountains, a cabana bath, a library will be auctioned off next month. Take a peek. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Arts
The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art is home to a limited-time exhibit on Frank Lloyd Wright and The College of Tomorrow. Visit now through Sunday, Nov. 19.*
Sports
The Rays have only have five games left. Dig into what’s next for the Tampa Bay Rays with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Jobs
Whether you’re a small business looking to grow your team or a large company filling a key role, TBAYtoday Job Board can connect you with engaged, qualified locals who are ready to work. Post your open roles for free + watch the applications roll in.
Edu
Discover your creative potential with Inward & Artward School of Creativity’s online classes this fall. Engage in courses like Creativity & Personal Mythology and Writers Accountability Groups to build resilience and sustain inspiration. Plus, apply for the 2026 hybrid Creative Facilitator Training for a unique learning journey. Enroll.*
A HEPA air purifier that’s 60% off for a limited time. We love that style is not compromised for function — it features a sleek exterior + eliminates 99.97% of air particles so you can have an odor and dust-free environment.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Yesterday, we asked “What is Tampa Bay’s “Rocky Horror Picture Show” live cast called?”
2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the cult classic featuring Tim Curry as Dr. Frank-N-Furter — celebrate with a screening or performance with a shadow cast.
Photo provided by The Rialto Theater
And most folks got it right. About 40% of readers correctly guessed that TBAY’s local troupe is called Hell on Heels.
A green sea turtle is released into the waves at Ormond Beach.
Photo provided by the Florida Aquarium
Let’s end today’s newsletter on a high note. Earlier this week, the Florida Aquarium released three juvenile green sea turtles (Salem, Eureka, and Lutz) back into the Atlantic Ocean. Look, it’s heartwarming.
The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach has helped 250 sea turtles since it opened. And yes, you can help.
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