Category: ST. PETERSBURG

  • ST. PETE’S GRAND CENTRAL DISTRICT BREWERIES

    ST. PETE’S GRAND CENTRAL DISTRICT BREWERIES

    Thirsty? You’re about to be.

    Discover seven Grand Central District breweries in the video below!


    https://youtu.be/W0MXdv3zbL8

    GRAND CENTRAL DISTRICT Breweries featured:

    Grand Central Brewhouse

    • LOCATION: 2340 Central Ave | St. Petersburg, FL 33712
    • HOURS: 7 days per week | 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. | 21+ after 9 p.m.

    Avid Brew Company

    • LOCATION: 1745 1st Avenue South | St. Petersburg, FL 33712
    • HOURS: Closed Monday & Tuesday | Wednesday 12 to 8 p.m. | Thursday thru Saturday 12 to 10 p.m. | Sunday 12 to 6 p.m.

    3 Daughters Brewing

    • LOCATION: 222 22nd St. S. | St. Petersburg, FL 33712
    • HOURS: Monday thru Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. | Friday & Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 12 (midnight) | Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

    Cage Brewing

    • LOCATION: 2001 1st Avenue S. | St. Petersburg, FL 33712
    • HOURS: Monday thru Thursday 3 to 11 p.m. | Friday & Saturday 12 p.m. to 12 (midnight) | Sunday 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

    BAYBORO BREWING

    • LOCATION: 2390 5th Ave S. | St. Petersburg, FL 33712
    • HOURS: Monday 4 to 9 p.m. | Tuesday thru Thursday 4 to 10 p.m. | Friday 1 to 11 p.m. | Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. | Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

    If I Brewed the World

    • LOCATION: 2200 1st Avenue South | St. Petersburg, FL 33712
    • HOURS: Closed Monday thru Wednesday | Thursday 5 to 10 p.m. | Friday 5 p.m. to 12 (midnight) | Saturday 12 p.m. to 12 (midnight) | Sunday 2 to 8 p.m.

    PINELLAS ALE WORKS

    • LOCATION: 1962 1st Avenue S. | St. Petersburg, FL 33712
    • HOURS: Monday thru Thursday 3 to 10 p.m. | Friday & Saturday 12 p.m. to 12 (midnight) | Sunday 12 to 8 p.m.

    Not featured in video:

    RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER — ARCADE BREWERY & CRAFT BEER BAR

    • LOCATION: 2244 Central Ave | St. Petersburg, FL 33712
    • HOURS: Closed Monday | Tuesday & Wednesday 5 to 10 p.m. | Thursday 4 to 10 p.m. | Friday 2 p.m. to 12 (midnight) | Saturday 12 p.m. to 12 (midnight) | Sunday 12 to 10 p.m.

    Have you visited any or all of these unique Grand Central District breweries yet? Let us know what you think in the comments!

  • ST. PETE PRIDE 2021: ALL THE BEST EVENTS IN THE GRAND CENTRAL DISTRICT

    ST. PETE PRIDE 2021: ALL THE BEST EVENTS IN THE GRAND CENTRAL DISTRICT

    Not sure if you heard, but a pandemic had other plans for us during this time last year, so this year’s Pride events are certainly welcome—even if they look a little different than before. Instead of a parade, St. Pete Pride is holding a month-long celebration in COVID-safe chunks. And although we’ll all miss the iconic parade, its absence has made way for more than 50 new activities and events throughout the city—the best of ’em happening right here in the Grand Central District!

    Enter: Pride in Grand Central

    pride in grand central

    This year, the Grand Central District Association is looking forward to bringing Pride back to where it began by hosting a series of local events including live music, sidewalk markets and a Scratch & Win game with a $500 cash prize (to name a few). Grand Central’s small businesses and neighborhoods will join forces to welcome and entertain all. So grab your planner, fire up your calendar app of choice, and get ready to party with the locals. It’s Pride in Grand Central.

    PRIDE IN GRAND CENTRAL EVENTS:

    JUNE 5 | Sip, Shop, Hooray DJ

    DJ Will from Hot1015 & Powerhouse 93 four “Pride Kick Off” Gay Rose specials. • 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

    Sip Shop Hooray
    2053 Central Ave


    JUNE 6 | DOG BAR Corona Beach Bash

    Wet & wild dog party with sprinklers, ice pools and a foam party! • 12 – 6 p.m.

    Dog Bar
    2300 Central Ave


    JUNE 8 | TOMBOLO BOOKS AN EVENING WITH ROB SANDERS

    An evening with Rob Sanders to celebrate Two Grooms on a Cake. • 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

    Tombolo Books
    2153 1st Avenue S.


    JUNE 11, 12 & 17 | The MAR “PLUS” Cabaret-Style Performance

    “Plus” is a cabaret-style performance giving the spotlight to LGBTQIA+ artists emphasizing those in the ever-changing “plus” subsect of the community. An all-inclusive evening featuring multiple solo artists ranging anywhere on the Pride spectrum from Lesbian to Ally and all possibilities in between. Join us at The MAR St. Pete as we lift our voices and come together to celebrate St. Pete Pride this June. • 8 – 9:30 p.m.

    **Contains adult content.

    The MAR
    2309 Central Ave


    JUNE 12 | DOG BAR Rescue Dog Yoga

    Rescue Dog Yoga with Pup Active & SPCA.
    Small vendor event noon to 3 p.m. (four vendors on site) • 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.

    Dog Bar
    2300 Central Ave


    JUNE 12 | HAWTHORNE’S Wig Out For Pride

    Pride kick off party – DJ Valley + Wig Party • 12 – 9 p.m.

    Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe
    2927 Central Ave


    JUNE 12 | SIP, SHOP, HOORAY Drag Show

    Drag Show!
    Queens: Jaeda Fuentes, Kori Stevens, newly crowned Queen of 2021. DJ LMo • 5 – 9 p.m.

    Sip Shop Hooray
    2053 Central Ave


    JUNE 12 | AWAKENING WELLNESS Night Market

    Awakening Second Saturday Market. • 6 – 10 p.m.

    Awakening Wellness
    2126 1st Avenue S.


    June 13 | GAY ST. PETE HOUSE Fashion Show

    Poolside Fashion Show. Food and drink included for $25. • 12 – 4 p.m.

    Gay St. Pete House
    4505 5th Avenue N.


    JUNE 15 | PUNKY’S BAR & GRILL Come On Caller, Make Me Holler Drag Bingo

    Drag Queen Bingo with Georgia Moore. To Benefit Rose Dynasty, Inc.7 – 9 p.m.

    Punky’s Bar & Grill
    3063 Central Ave


    June 15 | COCKtail QUEEREOKE

    Pride Queereoke! Come belt the anthems with some local talent. • 8 – 11:30 p.m.

    COCKtail
    2355 Central Ave


    JUNE 16 | GRAND CENTRAL BREWHOUSE Drag Queen Bingo

    Hosted by Stephanie Shippae. Free to play with 10 chances to win GCB prizes! • 7 – 9:30 p.m.

    Grand Central Brewhouse
    2340 Central Ave


    JUNE 16 | COCKtail WIGS & WIT

    3 comedians vs. 3 drag queens in a comedy battle royale. • 9 – 11:30 p.m.

    COCKtail
    2355 Central Ave


    JUNE 17 | PUNKY’S BAR & GRILL Rock The Night Away

    Erin Boone live music on the patio. • 6 – 9 p.m.

    Punky’s Bar & Grill
    3063 Central Ave


    JUNE 17 | COCKtail GAY ASS TRIVIA

    Just how well do you know your gay herstory? • 8 – 11 p.m.

    COCKtail
    2355 Central Ave


    JUNE 18 | DOG BAR Lip Sync Battle

    Pride in Grand Central Lip Sync Battle with DJ Shannon C & fundraiser for Girls Rock St. Pete. • 12 – 6 p.m.

    Dog Bar
    2300 Central Ave


    JUNE 18 | PUNKY’S BAR & GRILL Whoa-Oh-Oh-Oh

    Live Radio Broadcast from Punky’s 99 Jams. The Friday Night OLDSKOOL JAM w/Z-Man and J-Vo. 99 Jams WUJM “The Burg” 99.1 FM • 8 – 11 p.m.

    Punky’s Bar & Grill
    3063 Central Ave


    JUNE 18 | COCKtail THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME!

    There’s no place like home! We’re glad Pride is back on Central and so are the dancers. Pole Dancers from 8 to midnight! • 8 – 11:30 p.m.

    COCKtail
    2355 Central Ave


    JUNE 19 | SIP, SHOP, HOORAY DJ & Specials

    DJ Shannon “Sip, Shop, & Kiki,” specials on clothes and drinks. • 1 – 4 p.m.

    Sip Shop Hooray
    2053 Central Ave


    JUNE 19 | PUNKY’S BAR & GRILL Brittany For The Win Live Music

    Brittany Baldwin live on the patio. • 6 – 9 p.m.

    Punky’s Bar & Grill
    3063 Central Ave


    JUNE 19 | COCKtail SISSY THAT WALK

    Sissy That Walk Saturday! It’s f*ckin’ pride and our queens have something to say. • 10:30 p.m. – 2 a.m.

    COCKtail
    2355 Central Ave


    JUNE 20 | DOG BAR Biscuit Brunch

    Pride in Grand Central Biscuit Brunch. Homemade biscuits & drink specials. • 12 – 3 p.m.

    Dog Bar
    2300 Central Ave


    JUNE 20 | THE GARAGE T-Dance

    4 – 9 p.m.

    The Garage
    2729 Central Ave


    JUNE 20 | COCKtail DADDY ISSUES

    It’s Father’s Day and we love our daddies. • 8 – 11 p.m.

    COCKtail
    2355 Central Ave


    JUNE 22 | PUNKY’S BAR & GRILL It’s On Bitches! Drag Queen Bingo

    It’s On Bitches! Drag Queen Bingo with Georgia Moore. Drag Queen Bingo Sponsored by House Wine.
    Donating all proceeds to Pride in Grand Central. • 7 – 9 p.m.

    Punky’s Bar & Grill
    3063 Central Ave


    JUNE 22 | COCKtail LOUD & PROUD KARAOKE

    We love our gay icons and we want ya to know. • 8 – 11:30 p.m.

    COCKtail
    2355 Central Ave


    JUNE 23 | COCKtail FRESH START: DRAG SHOWCASE

    Featuring talent that is either just starting out, or back from hiatus. • 11 p.m. – 3 a.m.

    COCKtail
    2355 Central Ave


    JUNE 24 | PUNKY’S BAR & GRILL Don’t Just Say Noe Live Music

    Lisa Noe live on the patio. • 6 – 9 p.m.

    Punky’s Bar & Grill
    3063 Central Ave


    JUNE 24 | GRAND CENTRAL BREWHOUSE The Ultimate Drag Show

    Jay Miah, as seen on “The Voice,” Adriana Sparkle, and Iman will perform 2 shows in the beer garden, accompanied by DJ TC Czaritsa. Meet the performers before the shows! • 7 – 11 p.m.

    Grand Central Brewhouse
    2340 Central Ave


    JUNE 24 | MIXER’S AT OKW Drag Trivia

    Drag Pride trivia with Miranda. • 7 – 9 p.m.

    Mixers at OKW
    2451 Central Ave


    JUNE 24 | COCKtail HIDE

    There’s something so right about a man in leather. DJ and go-go boys. • 8 p.m. – 1 a.m.

    COCKtail
    2355 Central Ave


    JUNE 25 | VFW Post 39 / Urban Brew & BBQ Street Party

    Music by DJ Hoof of Q105 and a Drag Show starring Brianna Summers and special guests. Food & drink specials and 50/50 tickets will be sold to benefit local LGBTQ Charities. • 5 – 11 p.m.

    VFW Post 39
    2599 Central Ave


    JUNE 25 | MIXER’S AT OKW DJ

    DJ Bill Kody all night. $3 SKYY Vodka and $3 Fireball. • 6 – 11 p.m.

    Mixers at OKW
    2451 Central Ave


    JUNE 25 | DOG BAR DJ Fugi

    Food truck: Maggie on the Move from 5 to 9. • 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.

    Dog Bar
    2300 Central Ave


    JUNE 25 | PUNKY’S BAR & GRILL Meet Z-Man and J-Vo – Live Broadcast with Special Guest – Darden Rice

    Meet Darden Rice, St. Petersburg Mayoral Candidate, then rock the night away at Punky’s OLDSKOOL JAM – Live Radio Broadcast. • 8 – 11 p.m.

    Punky’s Bar & Grill
    3063 Central Ave


    JUNE 25 | COCKtail WONDERFUL WIGS OF OZ

    Dancers and wigs and drag, oh my! • 8 – 11:30 p.m.

    COCKtail
    2355 Central Ave


    JUNE 26 | DOG BAR Unleash Your Pride

    We’re rolling out the green carpet to bring you unleashed doggie play time! Dog Bar will have doggie ice cream, misting fans to keep you and your pup cool, ice pools, swag bags for the first 25 guests, drinks specials, vendors market and more. 

    Food truck: Surly Mermaid 2 to 8 p.m.

    Lay Low After Party 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. Late night eats from Lay Low Chateau & drink specials! • 11 a.m. – midnight

    Dog Bar
    2300 Central Ave


    JUNE 26 | GRAND CENTRAL Block Party

    Enjoy the streets and sidewalks of Grand Central. The 2300 and 2400 blocks of Central will be closed on Saturday, June 26 from noon to 6 p.m. for a pedestrian-safe block party with live entertainment (including a major celebrity talent to be announced soon!) and fun times. Rainbow up! • 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

    Grand Central
    2300-2400 Central Ave


    JUNE 26 | BLUE COTTAGE Celebrity Photo Opp

    JC Rea is the Entertainment Director at the Garage on Central Avenue. • 2 – 6 p.m.

    The Blue Cottage Home Decor
    2435 Central Ave


    JUNE 26 | AWAKENING WELLNESS Bollywood

    We’re celebrating Pride Bollywood-style with a stage drag show, music, vendors, games and prizes. • 6 – 10 p.m.

    Awakening Wellness
    2126 1st Avenue S.


    JUNE 26 | PUNKY’S BAR & GRILL Live Music

    Live Music on the Patio with Karmic Tattoo. • 6 – 9 p.m.

    Punky’s Bar & Grill
    3063 Central Ave


    JUNE 26 | PUNKY’S BAR & GRILL Come Out, Come Out, Wherever You Are.

    Come Out, Come Out, Wherever You Are for Karmic Tattoo’s Pride Appearance! Diversity Makes for a Better Cocktail party sponsored by Tito’s Vodka. Saturday Night Live on the patio featuring Lisa Noe and Amy Black. Tito’s Vodka will be serving up samples and Pride swag from 6 to 8. • 6 – 9 p.m.

    Punky’s Bar & Grill
    3063 Central Ave


    JUNE 26 | MIXER’S AT OKW Silent Disco

    Silent Disco. $3 SKYY & $3 Fireball. • 8 – 11:30 p.m.

    Mixers at OKW
    2451 Central Ave


    JUNE 26 | COCKtail COCK’D N LOADED

    We have some cocktails we think you should be double fisting. Mega Show starting at 9. • 9 – 11:30 p.m.

    COCKtail
    2355 Central Ave


    JUNE 27 | GRAND CENTRAL Rainbow Celebration & Sidewalk Stroll

    The Grand Finale Weekend party continues on the sidewalks of Grand Central. Enjoy Drag Brunch, Foam Party, T-Dance, Vendor Market, Dunk Booth and a Car Parade as we close out this years Pride celebration in style. • 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

    Grand Central
    2300-2400 Central Ave


    June 27 | PRIDE CRUISE AROUND St Pete & Gulfport

    Join us as we cruise around St. Pete and Gulfport. 100% free! No entry fee. • 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

    Decorate your vehicle and show your PRIDE! Meet at 10:30 and park, then promptly cruise at low speed through downtown St. Pete, then West to the Edge District in to the Grand Central District, then head to Gulfport Waterfront District, back through 22nd Street Main Street, the Warehouse Arts District, and ending in the Grand Central District.

    Drivers must be properly licensed and insured, follow all traffic laws and drive carefully! 

    #PrideinGrandCentral #ComeOUTStPete #GayStPete

    Start at Albert Whitted Park
    480 Bayshore Dr SE


    JUNE 27 | MIXER’S AT OKW Bubbles & Brunch Foam Party

    Foam party all day. Drag brunch at 1. Pop-up shops noon to 5. DJ Jayson. • 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

    Mixers at OKW
    2451 Central Ave


    JUNE 27 | DOG BAR Doggie Fashion Show

    Vendors market continues & at 3 p.m. Pride Doggie Fashion Show. Food truck: Maggie on the Move • 12 – 6 p.m.

    Dog Bar
    2300 Central Ave


    June 27 | STUDIO b SALON Shampoo & Dunk Booth

    Dunk booth, prizes, and a spectacular new you! • 12 – 5 p.m.

    Studio b Salon
    3023 Central Ave


    JUNE 27 | PUNKY’S BAR & GRILL “Funky Pride Market” & OLDSKOOL JAM w/Z-Man and J-Vo.

    Pride Grand Finale Weekend at Punky’s “Funky Pride Market” with a variety of local vendors—featuring OLDSKOOL JAM w/Z-Man and J-Vo on the Patio. Don’t forget to take your Pride Selfie with the St. Petersburg Distillery Trolley! • 12 – 5 p.m.

    Punky’s Bar & Grill
    3063 Central Ave


    JUNE 27 | HAWTHORNE’S BOTTLE SHOPPE Rock Out With Your Rainbow Out

    Patio + Parking Lot party. Rainbow beer flight. Clara Rose Ice Cream Truck. Live face painting. DJ Valley. • 12 – 9 p.m.

    Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe
    2927 Central Avenue


    June 27 | COMEOUT Block Party

    OUT and PROUD 365 block party & vendor market. • 1 – 9 p.m.

    The Garage
    2729 Central Ave


    JUNE 27 | SIP, SHOP, HOORAY DJ & Specials

    DJ Boom “HOUSE OF PRIDE” 2 to 5. Drink specials. • 2 – 5 p.m.

    Sip Shop Hooray
    2053 Central Ave


    JUNE 27 | COCKtail COCK-EYED

    It’s been a long Pride and we’re no longer seeing straight. Relax & feast your eyes on our sexy go-go boys. • 8 – 11:30 p.m.

    COCKtail
    2355 Central Ave


    And now, a word from our sponsors …


    All of these amazing events in St. Pete’s Grand Central District wouldn’t be possible without equally amazing partnerships. Meet the businesses behind your new favorite Pride party.

    PRIDE IN GRAND CENTRAL SPONSORS:

    Gallery 3100

    Opening in September 2021, Gallery 3100 is a luxury apartment company with 122 units that aims to bring urban convenience into an artful setting. Discover unique, modern, studio-, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments only steps away from trendy restaurants, breweries, coffee shops—and even the Tampa Bay Rays—in the vibrant Grand Central District of St. Petersburg, Florida.


    Grand Central Brewhouse

    Using European-style serving tanks that result in fresher beer and a longer shelf-life, Grand Central Brewhouse is a passionately designed brewery, taproom, beer garden and event venue that offers world-class beer and extremely knowledgeable staff members. Enjoy lagers & ales with unique and distinct flavors while gathering, celebrating and making memories at the hub of Grand Central.


    Gay St. Pete House

    Originally built in 1929 as a single-family home for the mayor of the city, Gay St. Pete House is a relaxing, clean and affordable bed & breakfast located in the center of St. Petersburg. Explore the beaches, museums and LGBTQ+ friendly Grand Central District; or relax and spend time with family and friends in this old Key West-style oasis.


    ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS

    With more than 20 years of experience designing fresh flowers and floral arts, Absolutely Beautiful Flowers is family-owned and operated full-service flower shop and event planning company committed to offering the freshest and finest floral arrangements and gifts in all of Florida. From birthdays to weddings and everything in between, Absolutely Beautiful Flowers believes every occasion should be special.


    Your Neighborhood Realty Associates, Inc.

    Founded in 1993, this family-owned and operated real estate company helps St. Pete locals buy and sell homes efficiently and professionally. From loan prequalification to closing the deal, Your Neighborhood Realty Associates Inc. is with you throughout the entire home buying and selling process.

    Tru by Hilton

    Tru is a modern, clean and informal hotel created by Hilton, located in the vibrant Grand Central district of St. Pete. Surrounded by museums, beaches, breweries, shops and restaurants, Tru by Hilton is convenient to everything, and has a fitness center, business center, meeting rooms and offers free breakfast.


    Cocktail st. pete

    With an atmosphere that mirrors the open-minded nature of St. Pete, Cocktail is a brand new craft cocktail and dance bar in Grand Central. With at atmosphere as vibrant as the drink menu, Cocktail is the perfect weekend hangout spot, day or night.


    Come out St. Pete

    Founded in 2017 in celebration of National Coming Out Day, Come Out St. Pete is a non-profit corporation with the mission to serve the Tampa Bay community by providing activities and events that raise awareness about, celebrate and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.


    Blue Cottage

    Located in the Grand Central District in St. Pete, Blue Cottage is a local, small home goods boutique that allows customers to immerse themselves into aesthetically beautiful environments, and perhaps add something new and beautiful to their homes. From artwork to candles to specialty foods, you can find the perfect gift or piece to refresh your living space at Blue Cottage.


    Punky’s Bar & Grill

    LGBTQ+ owned Punky’s Bar & Grill brings burgers, daily specials and their famous wings to the Grand Central District. Sit inside and watch a game or music videos on one of the large TVs, or dine outside and enjoy the St. Pete weather—no matter where you choose, you can still enjoy Punky’s entertainment. Check out Tuesday night bingo and live music every Thursday.


    TITO’S VODKA

    Crafted using old-fashioned copper pots, and made from 100% corn (so it’s naturally gluten-free), Tito’s Vodka is known as one of the most popular vodkas enjoyed in the United States. Its smooth, rich taste and affordable price make this spirit a go-to for drinking at home, or out at a bar or restaurant.


    SWINGER’s

    Located in the heart of Grand Central, Swingers is a patio bar and grill that serves a wide variety of food and drink items in a cute, beachy atmosphere. Outdoor swing chairs add an interactive (and Instagrammable!) element to the patio, while live music and specials keep visitors entertained and engaged. Stop by for brunch and treat yourself to bottomless mimosas!


    We at Media Garage Group are also proud to be sponsors of Pride in Grand Central!

    This last year has been … less than ideal … for most people and small businesses. Pride has always served as a time for locals and visitors alike to come out, enjoy delicious food and drinks, sing, dance and be their most authentic selves. And although there isn’t a parade during St. Pete Pride 2021, there are more than 50 new events for you to discover. So come out to the Grand Central District, the birthplace of Pride, and celebrate with us at Pride in Grand Central!

  • GRAND CENTRAL DISTRICT OF ST. PETERSBURG VIDEO TOUR (VOL. 1)

    GRAND CENTRAL DISTRICT OF ST. PETERSBURG VIDEO TOUR (VOL. 1)

    WELCOME TO THE GRAND CENTRAL DISTRICT



    Home to more than 350 locally owned and operated independent businesses, the Grand Central District of St. Petersburg, Florida, spans between 16th and 31st Streets and includes 1st Avenue North, Central Avenue, and 1st Avenue South. It is pedestrian-, bicycle-, scooter-, and dog-friendly!


    The motto in the Grand Central District is “This is where the locals go” because it’s bordered by residential neighborhoods. It’s also due, at least in part, to the fact that those who live and work here truly do love our neighborhood. We’re friends. We support each other. We look out for one another. The GCD is still alive and kickin’ a year post-lockdown because WE. WORK. HARD. We are artisans, regardless of trade. Whether we’re in advertising, brewing and selling beer, hand-crafting candles & apothecary items, or even providing a safe space for people to throw hatchets, we do everything in our power to ensure our products are top-notch and our customer service keeps people coming back.


    A NOTE FROM THE PRESIDENT

    karen helsinger media garage groupMedia Garage Group feels so lucky to have landed in the Grand Central District of St. Petersburg. Being a part of this community of merchants, restaurants, bars, breweries, art galleries, professional services, and health & wellness providers, has—hands down—been one of the best experiences of my professional career. It’s no doubt that Grand Central is “where the locals go.” These business owners have guts, grit, integrity, staying power, and big personalities; and their businesses are just as unique and quirky as the surrounding Historic Kenwood and Palmetto Park neighborhoods.

     

    —Karen Helsinger

    President, Grand Central District Association


    FEATURED GRAND CENTRAL DISTRICT BUSINESSES:

    Discover a bit more about the three Grand Central District business featured in our video at the top of the page.


    MIXERS AT OKW (OLD KEY WEST BAR & GRILL)

    Old Key West Bar & Grill is a great place to rest your feet from your weekend shopping on Central Avenue in St. Petersburg, or just kick back for a good meal after a long night on the town. OKW offers comforting American eats and rum cocktails in a casual space with outdoor seating. Mixers at OKW features a full liquor bar, live music, and great entertainment.


    THE BUNGALEAUX ON CENTRAL

    The Bungaleaux features unique furniture and accessories for the home. It’s St. Pete’s favorite place to find industrial hand-crafted pieces made by local artisans and eclectic home furnishings curated from all over the world. 


    HAWTHORNE BOTTLE SHOPPE

    Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe is a neighborhood social establishment and market dedicated to the education and enjoyment of craft beer, wine, and locally sourced deli offerings. More than a market, HBS offers more than 300 beers and 75 wines from around the world, eclectic knick-knacks, and an atmosphere that fosters neighborhood camaraderie. Drink in, take away, or both—that’s the easy decision at HBS.


  • PRIDE 2020: RIGHTS, RIOTS & THE RAINBOW CONNECTION

    PRIDE 2020: RIGHTS, RIOTS & THE RAINBOW CONNECTION

    Someday we’ll find it

    The Rainbow Connection

    The lovers, the dreamers and me

    —Kermit the Frog

    It’s June. (IT IS?! I wasn’t aware time had meaning again.) LGBTQ+ Pride 2020 is here. For our beloved city—which, for the past five years, has scored a perfect 100 on the Human Rights Campaign’s annual Municipal Equality Index (MEI)—this typically means St. Pete Pride, a week-long celebration of unity, visibility and love. St. Pete Pride is Florida’s largest Pride celebration and USA Today‘s #2 Pride festival to attend in 2019. But, along with almost all public events scheduled for June, the festival was postponed (and then canceled altogether) due to COVID-19. The organization sent out a press release stating:

    After careful consideration and thorough exploration of alternatives with the city of St Petersburg, the Board of St Pete Pride has made the difficult decision to cancel all large in-person events originally scheduled for June 22 – 28, 2020. The initial hope was to postpone these events. However, the level of uncertainty and lack of clear guidance from experts prompted the decision to cancel as the Board deemed the health and safety of our community, both near and far, most important.

    This is obviously a bummer for the city, its people and its businesses. And for festival-goers who couldn’t wait to finally try body glitter (me). Last year alone, St. Pete Pride brought in roughly 250,000 attendees and $67.2 million. That’s nothing to sneeze (into your elbow, and then immediately wash your hands) at.


    A BRIEF HISTORY OF PRIDE

    Of those 250,000 St. Pete Pride attendees last year, only 14 knew anything about Pride’s history, according to a study I just made up to create this segue. That’s atrocious! FOURTEEN?! OUT OF 250,000?! No. Again, this isn’t factual information. “You’re losing me, Court. How can I trust you after that world-class dupe you just pulled?” When you’re older, you’ll come to realize I was only looking out for your best interest. Your mother and I are proud of you.

    BRENDA HOWARD

    Speaking of mothers (nailed it), bisexual activist, Brenda Howard, is considered to be “The Mother of Pride.” In July of 1969, one month after the Stonewall riots, Howard organized a rally. One year after Stonewall, she and a committee planned Gay Pride Week and the Christopher Street Liberation Day Parade. This week and parade evolved into the New York City Pride march and Pride festivals as we now know them around the world. Thanks to Ms. Howard, LGBTQ+ folks can be ourselves—completely and authentically, and without judgment—at least one day a year. That’s one day more than millions of our fore-queers and middle America sisters, brothers and non-binary siblings have ever gotten to experience. Thank you, Brenda.

    But. If we really want to understand the importance of Pride, we have to dig deeper.

    STONEWALL

    “The Stonewall Riots, as they became known, made one thing clear—the LGBT movement needed to be louder and more visible. Nothing was going to change if they continued their passive, non-threatening tactics.” — Holland, Brynn. “How Activists Plotted the First Gay Pride Parades.” History. 28 June 2019. Web. June 2020.

    The events that occurred at the Stonewall Inn in the wee hours of the morning on June 28, 1969 will forever live in LGBTQ+ history. The police staged a raid at Stonewall, an alleged mafia-run gay bar in Greenwich Village, New York City. Throughout the state, it was illegal to serve alcohol to a gay person until 1966. And in 1969, being a homosexual was still considered a criminal offense. A CRIMINAL OFFENSE. Merely 51 years ago.

    These multi-angled legal limitations led many gay havens to operate without liquor licenses—essentially providing a welcome mat for raids and police brutality. This phenomenon wasn’t isolated to the coasts; police raids on gay bars were occurring all across the U.S during this time.

    So what actually happened during the Stonewall Riots?

    On June 28, 1969 at around 1:15 a.m., plainclothes NYPD officers arrived at the Stonewall Inn. They justified a raid with a search warrant, which authorized them to investigate illegal alcohol sales at the establishment. They interrogated the patrons, as they had during prior raids, and arrested 13 people. But this time, it was different.

    “The turning point came when the police had difficulty keeping a dyke in a patrol car. Three times she slid out and tried to walk away. The last time a cop bodily heaved her in. The crowd shrieked, ‘Police brutality!’ ‘Pigs!’ A few coins sailed through the air…escalated to nickels and quarters. A bottle. Another bottle.” — Smith, H. (1969, July 3). Full Moon Over the Stonewall. The Village Voice (v.XIV), pp. 1+

    In an interview with USA Today last year, Titus Montalvo, a hairdresser and makeup artist who was 16 at the time of the riots, said, “The majority of people at Stonewall were either drag queens or gay men of color.” In his book, “Stonewall: The Riots That Sparked the Gay Revolution,” writer David Carter mentions “three individuals known to have been in the vanguard of the pushback against the police at the uprising.” These people are Zazu Nova, Jackie Hormona and Marsha P. Johnson.

    MARSHA P. JOHNSON

    Born Malcolm Michaels Jr., Marsha P. Johnson was an American activist and self-identified drag queen. According to Susan Stryker, human gender and sexuality studies professor at the University of Arizona, Johnson’s gender expression could perhaps be called “gender non-conforming” these days, but the phrase, and term “transgender,” were not in the cultural lexicon at the time.

    Johnson was an outspoken advocate for gay rights: a founding member of both the Gay Liberation Front, and the advocacy organization, S.T.A.R. (Street Transvestite [sic] Action Revolutionaries). Johnson also modeled for Andy Warhol, and performed on stage with the drag performance troupe Hot Peaches.

    Some have credited Johnson for throwing “the shot glass heard around the world”; Johnson has denied it. Legend has it that police set fire to the Stonewall, stoking both the literal and metaphorical flames of the riot, and Johnson “threw a shot glass at a mirror in the torched bar screaming, ‘I got my civil rights!’”


    BLACK PRIDE

    black pride 2020

    To be completely honest, I had 95 percent of this blog post finished—written about the history of LGBTQ+ Pride, the importance of Pride festivals, and ideas for ways to celebrate in spite of a pandemic. But while the ink on Ahmaud Arbery‘s death certificate was still drying, George Floyd was killed by a white police officer in Minneapolis. After that, my dog costuming recommendations certainly didn’t hold as much cultural water.

    Black people and LGBTQ+ people have had to endure similar discrimination throughout history. Both groups have been treated as second-class citizens. Both groups have been physically and emotionally abused for factors out of their control (i.e., the color of one’s skin, sexual orientation and gender identity). There is, however, one major distinction between the two. Slavery is a uniquely Black experience. One that, even as a queer person, I can’t begin to imagine the generational effects of.

    In 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. had a dream that one day, the nation would would rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.” Nearly 60 years later, people of color are still waiting for equality.

    PROTESTS

    Contrary to Dr. King, human rights activist, Malcolm X, initially opposed non-violence as a means of attaining freedom. As written in his 1964 speech, “The Ballot or the Bullet,” “Black people are fed up with the dillydallying, pussyfooting, compromising approach that we’ve been using toward getting our freedom. We want freedom now, but we’re not going to get it saying ‘We Shall Overcome.’ We’ve got to fight until we overcome.

    In 2016, when tensions in Charlotte, North Carolina over the shooting of Keith Lamont Scott quickly boiled over into violence, looting and riots, many people on social media questioned why participants would destroy their own communities. UCLA professor, Darnell Hunt, has the answer. “People participate in this type of event for a real reason,” he says. Hunt has studied the 1992 Rodney King riots in Los Angeles extensively. “It’s not just people taking advantage. It’s not just anger and frustration at the immediate or proximate cause. It’s always some underlying issue.

    An issue, like say, this?

    LA Johnson/NPR

    The rate at which black Americans are killed by police is more than twice as high as the rate for white Americans. The above is a non-comprehensive list of deaths at the hands of police in the U.S. since Eric Garner’s death in July 2014.


    Or this?

    NAACP.org

    Or this?

    Honestly, I would’ve understood if the issue were merely “La La Land.” That being said, I enjoyed the film. It’s enjoyable by design. THIS IS HOW THEY GET US.

    Jokes aside, I’d like to remind people, at this juncture, that the protestors are protesting—it’s the looters who are looting.

    And then there are these people. Heavy sigh.


    WHAT YOU CAN DO

    I’ve learned through personal experience a friend that the best thing you can do for your UNRELENTING RAGE is to take positive action. Check out the resources below to get involved locally and nationally.

    #BlackLivesMatter & #PRIDE2020

    https://www.facebook.com/keepsaintpetersburglocal/photos/a.252811264777515/3163410430384236/?type=3&theater

    Black Lives Matter

    A list of resources for supporting the Black Lives Matter movement

    Bail funds and other organizations fighting against oppression

    How to help Black Lives Matter: 9 things you can do for the George Floyd protesters right now

    George Floyd Was Murdered. We Must Not Be Silent—Here’s How to Help

    Here’s How You Can Support the Black Community & the National Movement Right Now

    Human Rights Campaign

    HRC’s #PrideInside

    Global Pride 2020

    Pride Foundation

    LGBTQ Pride Month and Education Resources

    Each Mind Matters: LGBTQ Pride Resources

    LGBTQ Charities

    The Trevor Project — Saving Young LGBTQ Lives


    IN CONCLUSION

    I hope it’s clear that I use humor as a tool to soften the more hardened edges a bit. To balance out the nefarious reality in which we live. We live in a #CancelCulture where privileged people are allowed to wear outrage as an identity, but an unarmed black kid with Skittles in his pocket is somehow a threat that warrants murder.

    We must reflect upon our colorful past (I’m sorry) in order to learn from it. We must fully digest the words of the people who, 60 years ago, were telling us the EXACT. SAME. SH*T. that proponents of equality are telling us today. We don’t always have to agree, but we do have to respect one another. We have to change our collective perspective from anti-upheaval to pro-peace.

    For Kermit the Frog (and Elphaba, if we’re on the subject), it wasn’t easy being green. These days, it’s not easy being black, brown, or queer. But “The Rainbow Connection” is about faith. It’s about seeing something—hope—that other people may not see. The “Connection” is a tether from our dreams to our reality; and a hope that, one day, the two will be one and the same. Just as hope is something that can only exist if it is believed, hope can inspire people to do great and powerful things.

    Why are there so many
    Songs about rainbows
    And what’s on the other side
    Rainbows are visions
    They’re only illusions
    And rainbows have nothing to hide
    So we’ve been told and some chose to
    Believe it
    But I know they’re wrong wait and see

    Someday we’ll find it
    The Rainbow Connection

    The lovers, the dreamers and me

  • WHY TO SPEND YOUR HOLIDAYS (AND YOUR MONEY!) IN ST. PETE

    WHY TO SPEND YOUR HOLIDAYS (AND YOUR MONEY!) IN ST. PETE

    We’re less than a week away from Christmas and the holiday cheer in St. Pete, Florida isn’t slowing down anytime soon. If you’re looking for Santa-approved things to do, places to go and unique gifts to buy, look no further than #DTSP! Check out some of our favorite picks for St. Pete wintertime wonder and NYE excitement.


    LIGHTS!

    The best holiday light displays around St. Pete.


    Enchant Christmas

    TROPICANA FIELD / THROUGH DECEMBER 29, 2019

    Touted as having “The World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze,” Enchant Christmas is a spectacle for all ages. Beautiful illuminated reindeer “sculptures” and installations make it very ‘Grammable. There’s also a market, live entertainment, overly priced but what the hell, it’s the holidays! drinks and—my favorite part—the ice skating loop. Did I bust my knee open trying to do some ice dancing with my nephew? Yes. Was it worth it? Absolutely. Just be prepared to say “there are so many people here” a lot.


    Oakdale Christmas House

    2719 OAKDALE STREET SOUTH / 6 P.M. DAILY THROUGH JANUARY 3, 2020

    According to the Tampa Bay Times, “the 43rd annual light display with religious representations includes lit walkways, water fountains, a computerized light show, animated dolls, a three-story snowman and an 18-train model railroad.” Holy Christmas!


    WATERFRONT LIGHT DISPLAY

    STRAUB PARK, BEACH DRIVE & FIFTH AVENUE NE / THROUGH JANUARY 1, 2020

    Photo credit: Tampa Bay Times

    Stroll along the waterfront and feast your eyes on thousands of lights, decorations and a giant holiday greeting card display created by local teens and participants from St. Pete recreation centers.


    CHRISTMAS BOAT PARTY

    THE GETAWAY / 6 TO 10 P.M. • SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2019

    Photo credit: The Getaway

    If you’re all about that #SaltLife, this is the event for you. (And it’s free admission!) Do Christmas Florida-style while listening to live music, eating fresh seafood, drinking tiki cocktails and admiring docked boats that are decorated with a whole lotta holiday cheer!


    CAMERA!

    Where to catch holiday movies and snap photos with Santa!


    HOLIDAY MOVIES IN THE PARK

    VINOY PARK / 7 P.M. • DECEMBER 21, 2019

    Photo credit: Walmart.com

    Grab your lawn chairs and blankets to get cozy on the grass for a viewing of 1994’s The Santa Clause starring Tim Allen. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public.


    MEET SANTA

    NORTH STRAUB PARK / 6 TO 9 P.M. DAILY THROUGH DECEMBER 23, 2019

    Photo credit: St. Petersburg Parks & Recreation

    Along with Holiday Movies in the Park, Meet Santa is part of the new Holidays in the Sunshine City event that incorporates all St. Petersburg’s holiday festivities sponsored by the St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation Department and the City of St. Petersburg. Traumatize Surprise your kids and get to know ol’ Saint Nick at this free event—cameras & photos welcome!


    PET PHOTOS WITH SANTA

    TYRONE SQUARE MALL / 9 A.M. TO 9 P.M. DEC. 20-23 & 8 A.M. TO 6 P.M. DEC. 24, 2019

    Photo credit: Parade.com

    Bring your pet to Dillard’s Court at Tyrone Square Mall for an extra-special Christmas photo op! The Jolly One will be there to sit for photos with your fur babies now through Christmas Eve. PRO TIP: Even Santa has to take breaks, so avoid 1:15 – 2:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 2:15 – 3 p.m. Sunday.


    ACTION!

    Christmas activities, New Year’s nightlife and last-minute holiday shopping destinations.


    UGLY SWEATER PARTIES

    Photo credit: Etsy.com

    DOG BAR / 6 TO 11 P.M. • DECEMBER 20, 2019

    Live DJ, BBQ, raffles, JELL-O shots and adoptable pets! What more could you want out of a party?! Dress yourself and your pet in the gaudiest garb you can find and enter the contest!

    3 DAUGHTERS BREWING / 8 TO 11 P.M. • DECEMBER 20, 2019

    It’s time to get tacky! Enjoy live music from The Spazmatics from 8 to 11 p.m., but feel free to come early for this all-day event. Cold beer. Free admission.

    MACDINTON’S ST. PETE / 7 P.M. TO 1:30 A.M. • DECEMBER 24, 2019

    Grandma knitted you that sweater for a reason—to win MacDinton’s Ugliest Sweater Contest! (Sorry, Doris. Although the design is questionable, the garment is exquisitely crafted. Just like you.) (The “exquisite” part, not the “questionable” part.) Contest winners will receive prizes sponsored by Tito’s Vodka. Donate a brand new teddy bear for the Rough Riders Annual Holiday Teddy Bear Drive because a.) it’s a nice thing to do for a child this holiday season; and b.) for each bear you donate, you’ll receive a raffle ticket to win a Tito’s basket o’ holiday cheer(s)!


    Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker

    THE MAHAFFEY THEATER / 7 P.M. DEC. 26; 3 P.M. & 7 P.M. DEC. 27, 2019

    Photo credit: Duke Energy Center For The Arts — The Mahaffey Theater

    Don’t miss the Moscow Ballet’s breathtaking interpretation of this quintessential holiday performance featuring an iconic score by Tchaikovsky. Dancers tell this timeless tale of a little girl’s Christmas Eve dreams through a fantasy of music and movement. Tickets start at $34.50.


    NEW YEAR’S CELEBRATIONS

    Photo credit: Grammarly.com

    RED MESA CANTINA: RING IN THE ROARING TWENTIES / 8 P.M. TO 1 A.M.

    MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS: NYE@MFA | FLIGHTS OF FANCY / 9 P.M. TO 1 A.M.

    THE VORTEX BAR & GAME ROOM: A ROARING 2020 NEW YEAR’S EVE / 8 P.M. TO 3 A.M.

    THE MANDARIN HIDE: NYE DECADENCE 2020 / 8 P.M. TO 1 A.M.

    THE ESTATE: NEW YEAR’S EVE 2020 | BUBBLES & BOTTLES / 9 P.M. TO 3 A.M.

    ST. PETERSBURG COLISEUM: SWINGIN’ THE NEW YEAR / 7:30 P.M. TO 1 A.M.

    RINGSIDE CAFE: NEW YEAR’S EVE | RJ DOES TALKING HEADS W/ ELLA JET & FUTURE SOUL / 9 P.M. TO 1:30 A.M.

    … just to name a few.


    LAST-MINUTE SHOPPING

    We’re big fans of shopping locally—particularly in the Grand Central District—for holiday gifts. Here are our favorite selections for unique, intentional, hand-crafted goodies to fill stockings (or really any container or box you’d like).

    THE BUNGALEAUX ON CENTRAL

    Discover one-of-a-kind furniture and accessories for the home. The Bungaleaux carries industrial hand-crafted pieces by local artisans & eclectic home furnishings hand-picked from all over the world.


    PIECES OF A DREAM

    Patti, Pieces of a Dream’s owner, describes her store as “your destination to Celebrate Your Senses and find unique and distinctive ‘Gifts You’ll Love to Give and Receive’.”


    CREATIVE CLAY

    Creative Clay‘s vision is to “make the arts accessible to all” by providing expressive, educational and vocational experiences for people with disabilities. The gifts you’ll find at their brick & mortar and online store are individually created by Creative Clay artists. From clothing to home decor to greeting cards, Creative Clay is sure to have something for everyone on your list.


    HAWTHORNE BOTTLE SHOPPE

    With more than 300 craft beer offerings and 75 distinct wines, Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe is your resource for buying rare & craft libations like a local. Grab some lunch before you shop—they also have at least 10 beers on tap and 8 deli selections.


    My last reason to spend your holidays in St. Pete goes out to my northern friends: IT DOESN’T SNOW HERE. I think I’ve proven my point.


    There you have it! If you have other suggestions or recommendations for this holiday list, let us know in the comments or on our Facebook Page!

    Happy Holidays from Media Garage Group and …