Photo was taken at Localtopia 2019. Credit: LOCALTOPIA/ FACEBOOK

Next month, Localtopia is returning to St. Pete's Williams Park for its eighth year of highlighting local businesses. The massive outdoor pop-up is set to host nearly 200 vendors on Saturday, Feb. 20 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. That's seven hours of uninterrupted shopping. If it just so happens to rain on the big day, the reschedule is on Saturday, February 27.

Being that the annual event is returning in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Localtopia organizers have put forth a safety plan for guests and staff. Other than having to wear a mask at all times, hand washing stations will be present throughout the grounds as well as portable toilets equipped with sanitizer. Just a heads up: this year pets will not be allowed as they present issues with social distancing. To view Localtopia's entire list of COVID-19 safety protocols, visit keepsaintpetersburglocal.org.

Come hungry, too, because Localtopia is hosting a slew of food trucks stationed on Fourth Street and along Second Avenue, as well as "thirst stations" selling local beer in cans as well as canned wines. Live musical performances will also take place all day long along with a literary corner, street art performances and other activities for all ages.

The family-friendly event offers free admission, you just have to bring bread to spend on art, food, handmade goods and clothing from vendors. You may want to lean toward cashless payments like cards, Apple Pay, and have some apps (Cash App, Venmo and PayPal) as an added safety precaution.

If you're not quite comfortable braving the crowd at this open-air event, check out the list of participating vendors, and you can opt to support vendors by purchasing products online. Supporting local from your couch is a win-win.

William's Park is located at 330 2nd Ave. N. in downtown St. Petersburg. Street and garage parking is available for attendees.

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