I don't have a huge amount of money and being that I'm not a musician, it's rather absurd how much I spend on music. From buying new and used CDs to driving to Atlanta to check out an Umphrey's McGee show to flying all the way to Maine for a Phish festival, I continue to dish out the dough loyally and lovingly in the name of music. Really, I could talk about music all day long but I'd rather listen to it and this week presents me with some fun and free options, all taking place locally and all offering a relaxed atmosphere in an idyllic setting.The Tarpon Springs Recreation Department offers a free concert on the beach from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, July 29. High Tides rips through some good old-fashioned Southern rock and between sets, there's a "kid time" intermission with activities and prizes. Box dinners are available for purchase as well as assorted beverages, so grab a blanket or lounge chair and head out to Sunset Beach to enjoy the fun. (For directions to Sunset Beach in Tarpon Springs, call 727-942-5628.)
The St. Pete Pier presents its Music Fest every Sunday in the courtyard next to the water, with live music by local bands and musicians from 1 to 4 p.m. Relax and drift away or boogie down to the melodies by this week's featured entertainer, vocalist/ songwriter Lorna Bracewell. (800 Second Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-821-6443.)
For almost 10 years, visitors to Clearwater Beach have enjoyed Sunsets at Pier 60. This nightly celebration features artisans and crafters offering handmade treasures and unique Florida memorabilia; street theater performers including magicians, fire eaters, stilt walkers, living statues, performing pets and jugglers; and live music showcasing a variety of styles. This weekend, Island Boys offer tunes with a Caribbean flavor on Friday, July 30, and the youngest musicians in the area, Squirrels Gone Wild, tear up some classic rock favorites on Saturday, July 31. The fun begins two hours before sunset and lasts until two hours after, weather permitting. (For directions, go to www.sunsetsatpier60.com or call 727-449-1036.)
This article appears in Jul 29 – Aug 4, 2004.
