Tampa Bay residents are sure to pack the Pier for toasting, canoodling, and good fun at the annual Piertoberfest.
Photo by @stpetepier
Prost, Oktoberfest is here. And no, you don’t need to head to Munich, we have “one of the top five oktoberfests in the country” right here in TBAY.
We’ve rounded up brewsy celebrations across Hillsborough + Pinellas complete with German treats (hello, pretzels), stein hostings, keg stackings, and a Mr. & Mrs Oktoberfest competition. Best of all: The Gulf Coast’s October weather is sooo much better than Germany’s.
Piertoberfest | Saturday, Oct. 4 | St. Pete Pier | Free
The Cross Bay Ferry is coming back — and it’s going to be cheaper for both counties to run. Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority recently bought the vessels to run the service and Tampa Bay Sea Taxi, Inc. committed to running the ferries for $276.50 per hour. We’ll keep you posted on the launch date. (WUSF News)
Civic
Last week, the St. Pete City Council voted in support of the St. Petersburg Science Center. The news follows Mayor Ken Welch’s administration’s decision to reject the project. What’s next? Administrators will provide an update at this Thursday committee meeting. (St. Pete Catalyst)
Coming Soon
Lunch break just got a whole lot better — if you work in Water Street Tampa, that is. The bustling neighborhood is getting a Chipotle. The fast-casual Mexican spot will open at Cumberland Avenue and Via Corazon. No, we don’t know when.(That’s So Tampa)
Eat
Now, you can get your fave “Sex and the City"-featured bagels locally. H&H Bagels opens on Thursday, Oct. 2 on South Dale Mabry Highway serving tons of flavors — and bagel sandwiches. The spot opens at 6 a.m. and the first 200 customers score a free tote bag + a gift card. (That’s So Tampa)
Development
Generational change is coming for Madeira Beach. Local developers plan to replace storm-battered hotels like the Schooner and Beachside Suites with new luxe condos, hotels, and other projects. About $500 million worth of projects to be specific. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Listen
Speaking of Hurricane Helene, WUSF News Director Mary Shedden chatted with Megan Borowski, senior meteorologist with the Florida Public Radio Emergency Network, about last year’s devastating storm. Borowski shares key lessons + intel on how the network tracks storms. (WUSF News)
Mansion Monday
We’ve all watched the Pendry Tampa rise along the riverfront. Now’s your chance to buy a 3,216-sqft unit in the Montage Hotels & Resorts tower. Take a tour of the 4-bed, 3-bath pad featuring a deep soaking tub and resort-pool access.
Active
The first rule of Robot Fight Club is to read about it in the New York Times. As the artificial intelligence boom continues, humans are gathering to watch humanoid robots fight each other. No, we’re not joking. Make sure you stay ahead of the robots by training at a local gym.
Watch
Coming to a theater near you — The Official Release Party of a Showgirl. On Friday, Oct. 3 through Sunday, Oct. 5, you can see the world premiere of Taylor Swift’s “The Fate of Ophelia,” including the music video and behind-the-scenes footage. Get tickets to a screening in Tampa.
Trending
Order up. Peter Pan Diner in Fort Lauderdale is the most iconic diner in Florida, according to Reader’s Digest. You’ll have to drive ~266 miles to get its famous chicken souvlaki, but we have plenty of exciting new restaurants to try right here in Tampa Bay.
Today Is
Today is National Coffee Day, and we’ve never felt more seen by a national holiday. Whether you like your java hot, iced, bold, or sweet, join in the fun with us by pouring yourself a cup of ambition from one of Tampa Bay’s local coffee shops.
Home
If cooler temps (and hot coffee) have you ready to get creative and start a project or two, you’re not alone. Whether you want to go big and increase your home’s value or just spruce things up before the holidays, it’s a great time to get started. Inspo this way.*
Featured Deal
This is your last call to take advantage of our early bird deal + get 20% off your business’s spot in our 2025 Holiday Gift Guide. Use code EARLYBIRD20 before it expires on Wednesday, Oct. 1.
This versatile card has quickly become a favorite for many. With no annual fee, 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers into 2026, and up to 5% cash back on everyday purchases, it’s easy to see why it stands out.Explore the perks.*
We’re sure this upcoming year will be as newsy as ever. | Photo via @growgavan
More than 1.6 million people (and thousands of businesses) contribute to the Tampa Bay metropolitan area’s economy. But have you ever wondered about our heaviest hitters?
Consider this Tampa Bay Business 101 — your guide to our region’s key industries and major employers. Class is in session.
Healthcare
BayCare Health System
32,000 employees | Healthcare | Search jobs
The healthcare system is based in Clearwater, and has 16 hospitals under its name.
HCA West Florida Division
21,000 employees | Healthcare | Search jobs
The local branch of the Sunshine State healthcare system is based in Tampa. HCA helps connect Tampa Bay residents with healthcare providers, doctors, surgeons, and other appropriate medical care.
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute
9,000 employees | Cancer research | Search jobs
Moffitt boasts cancer survival rates up to four times the national average, and has been accredited annually since 1989 for its work in the field.
Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital
3,600 employees | Healthcare | Search jobs
The pediatric hospital in the heart of the Burg helps thousands of patients every year, and provides thousands of people with employment.
Something to make your morning coffee ritual last longer this cool-weather season: a temperature control mug, rated 4.7 stars and currently 10% off. This smart mug lets you control your beverage’s temperature down to the degree, with auto shut-off technology after two hours.
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.
I’m hard at work, at this, my actual job, but also my quest to see 10 concerts this year. So far, I’m at seven, but this Thursday’s Rock the Park show featuring The Beauvilles is next on my list.
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