Beach Fest 2004
One of the perks of living in Florida is the prime weather we experience in the spring, that short period of time between March and May when driving sans air conditioning is actually enjoyable. These are the days when a relatively inactive person like myself makes the effort to get out to the beach before the heat becomes too stifling. This year, I've made plans other than burying my toes in the sand and will be journeying to Clearwater to check out this year's Beach Fest, taking place Friday, April 16-Sunday, April 18, at Clearwater's Pier 60.Pier 60 hosts the event every April and lures in thousands of area folks with the promise of a good time, offering daytime activities and evening entertainment using the Gulf of Mexico as its backdrop. And really, if you have any desire to go to the beach, there's no better time to do so.
Soak up the sun, stuff yourself full of seafood (or whatever fare you prefer) and check out an assortment of street performers and novelty "busker" acts. Walk around and peruse works offered by local artisans and crafters, or amble over to the carnival and take a ride on The Zipper. If you're looking for more hands-on fun, register to compete in the sandcastle-building contest sponsored by Radio Disney. The theme is "Disney on the Beach" and registration begins at 10 a.m. The actual contest takes place from noon to 2 p.m., judging begins at 2:30 and the winners are announced at 3.
The evening entertainment begins with a live music showcase at 6:30 p.m. on a stage located right on the beach. Local and national artists play a variety of styles with different acts each night: Mystik NRG and The Landsharks on Friday, Big Sky and Hip Kitty on Saturday, and The Edison's and Still Surfin' on Sunday.
If an event like this doesn't appeal to you, at least make it out for the Fun & Sun Fireworks Spectacular, which lights up the waters off Pier 60 at 8:45 p.m. Friday.
For more info, call 727-449-1036.—Leilani Polk
This article appears in Apr 15-21, 2004.