Best of the Bay 2026

In 2026, CL readers cast roughly 1.6 million votes and selected winners and finalists in 555 categories. Our writers picked 128 critics awards. New this year are 37 honorees in the inaugural Best of the Bay All-Stars, which recognizes individuals and/or institutions that’ve won a shitload of awards over the years and made indelible positive contributions to the cultural fabric of the Bay area.

THINGS TO DO IN TAMPA BAY

Tampa Bay’s best comedy shows happening October 2026, including Stormy Daniels, Kevin Farley, and Quinton Greene

Aziz Ansari, Atsuko Okatsuka, and Bassem Youssef are all coming to town, too.

by Michael Murillo October 1, 2026October 1, 2026

Tampa Bay’s best live music happening October 9-15 including Karol G, Clearwater Jazz Holiday and more

Plus Daddy Kool’s new concert series, the Independent Bar anniversary shows, and more.

by Josh Bradley and Ray Roa October 9, 2026October 9, 2026

Tampa Bay’s best things to do October 8-15, including the Tampa Theatre reopening kickoff

Plus book talks, the theater listing, and more.

by Ray Roa and Josh Bradley October 7, 2026October 9, 2026

Tampa Bay’s best food & drink events this week, including the Mighty Fine-Late Start Brewing anniversary party

Plus a 17th birthday for the Indie, brunches, tapas at Golden Isles, and more.

by Ray Roa and Josh Bradley October 7, 2026October 8, 2026

V Modern Italian debuts in North Hyde Park, Dr. BBQ heads to Clearwater Beach and more in Tampa Bay food news

Plus, Rene’s Mexican Kitchen needs some help, Oktoberfest reschedules and more in our weekly food news round-up.

by CL Staff October 9, 2026October 9, 2026

Tampa City Ballet’s ‘La Septima’ is a huge accomplishment, and it takes over the Cuban Club this weekend

Tampeños have three more chances to see it—Oct. 9-10 & 17—and they should.

by David Warner October 9, 2026October 9, 2026