What’s On Suncoast? 4.11 – 4.18
The Suncoast Post asks, “What’s On, Suncoast?” Here are some ideas for the area this week from April 11 – 18, 2025.
Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival
Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park – Various other Locations
The Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival here on the Suncoast, scheduled for April 8-12, 2025, is a five-day celebration highlighting the culinary excellence of the Tampa Bay area. The festival features a series of curated events, including “Experience St. Pete” on April 9, “Experience Tampa” on April 10, the “Chef Showdown” on April 11, and the “Grand Tasting” on April 12 at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. These events showcase the talents of local chefs and offer attendees a variety of food and beverage experiences. The festival also supports local charitable initiatives through the Community Initiatives Foundation’s EAT SMART campaign, promoting youth health and wellness in the community.
Hours: see ticket information and different events HERE.
Whiskey Wings
Whiskey Wings
26210 US Hwy 19 N Clearwater, FL, United States, Florida 33761
Whiskey Wings, a popular sports bar and grill, has expanded its presence to Clearwater, Florida, offering residents and visitors a lively dining experience. Known for its award-winning buffalo wings, the menu boasts a variety of flavors to satisfy diverse palates. Beyond wings, patrons can enjoy an array of appetizers, burgers, and hearty entrees like the Drunken Philly—a hoagie filled with shaved steak, onions, mushrooms, peppers, topped with craft beer cheese and onion tanglers. The atmosphere is vibrant and family-friendly, featuring live music performances and entertainment options such as arcade games and trivia nights. With ample indoor and outdoor seating, Whiskey Wings provides a welcoming environment for gatherings of all sizes. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast looking to catch a game or seeking a fun night out with friends and family, Whiskey Wings in Clearwater delivers a memorable experience.
Hours: Sunday through Wednesday 11 a.m. – 12 a.m., Thursday/Friday/Saturday 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.
Music in the Park
Music in the Park:
Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion – 452 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
The Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion will host the Music in the Park series, offering free, family-friendly concerts every Friday from April 11 to May 2, 2025, between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. On April 11, enjoy the Americana sounds of Have Gun, Will Travel, a local band known for their blend of folk and rock. The following week, on April 18, the Glass Onion Band will perform classic rock favorites, including Beatles covers. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets, along with friends and leashed pets, to enjoy these outdoor performances. The Pavilion is located at 452 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205.
Hours: April 11, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Sweet Melissa’s Restaurant
Sweet Melissa’s Restaurant
16230 Summerlin Road Fort Myers 33908
Sweet Melissa’s Restaurant here on the Suncoast offers a refined dining experience under the guidance of Chef Melissa Donahue, a 2019 James Beard Award nominee. The menu emphasizes fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients, presenting innovative dishes that highlight Chef Donahue’s culinary expertise. Signature offerings include the renowned fish stew, featuring a medley of seafood such as shrimp, scallops, clams, mussels, fish, and house-made chorizo in a tomato saffron broth topped with Pernod aioli.
The restaurant’s ambiance is both elegant and inviting, with tasteful décor and a cozy patio that creates an ideal setting for various occasions, from celebratory gatherings to intimate dinners. The attentive staff is dedicated to providing exceptional service, and the extensive wine list is thoughtfully curated to complement the diverse menu. Desserts are not to be overlooked, with options like the goat cheese cheesecake topped with pistachio nuts and local honey offering a delightful conclusion to the meal. Reservations are strongly recommended to ensure a memorable dining experience.
Hours: Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Sundays from 5 p.m.
North Port Aquatic Center
North Port Aquatic Center
6205 W Price Blvd, North Port, FL 34291
For a delightful family outing in North Port, Florida, the North Port Aquatic Center offers an array of water attractions suitable for all ages. Children can revel in the excitement of the Pelican Splashground, featuring interactive water play elements, while thrill-seekers can experience the rush of the Barracuda Blast drop slide. For a more relaxed pace, families can float along the meandering Relaxahatchee Lazy River or enjoy the heated competition pool. With on-site concessions at the Sand Dollar Snack Shack, it’s easy to refuel without leaving the fun. This aquatic center provides the perfect setting for a day of sun-soaked enjoyment and memorable family moments.
Hours: Saturday, April 12, 2025, 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Photos from the above business website or Facebook pages