Where to eat, drink and cool off this weekend.
Craving something pumpkin with the return of September? Grab a pint of St. Pete Brewing Company's Drop Dead "GOURD"eous Pumpkin Ale anytime after 2 p.m. Friday. The seasonal ale is made with real pumpkin and lightly spiced. Free, money for drinks. 544 First Ave. N., St Petersburg, 727-692-8809.
For a slice of Fat Tuesday in Tampa Bay, shimmy over to Gulfport for the annual GeckoFest, happening 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday. Festivalgoers are encouraged to wear costumes that suit the "Gecko Gras" theme while noshing on street vendors' food. During the family-friendly event, folks should check out the city's independent eateries for more tastes and treats. Two wine and beer zones will be featured as well. Free, money for food and drinks. 3129 Beach Blvd., Gulfport, 727-322-5217.
Taste some local flavor from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the Fresh Market at the Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel. Hosted every first and third Saturday of the month, the open-air market offers more than 50 vendors selling edible goodies like jams, salsas, fruits and vegetables. All ages are welcome. Free, money for food and drinks. 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel, 813-994-2242.
Finish out the summer through the final Splash Sunday pool party at South Tampa's Epicurean Hotel. The event kicks off at noon (perfect for you Saturday night party animals) and wraps up around 5 p.m. Enjoy craft cocktails such as the Bee on Thyme with strawberry-infused Fontana Pisco as you unwind on a lounge chair. $10 in advance, 15 at the door. 1207 S. Howard Ave., Tampa, 813-999-8700.
This article appears in Sep 3-9, 2015.
