What’s On Suncoast? 8.1 – 8.8

The Suncoast Post asks, “What’s On, Suncoast?” Here are some ideas for things to do in the area from August 1 – 8, 2025.

Tampa Bay Comic Convention

Tampa Bay Comic Convention
Amalie Arena · 401 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602

The Tampa Bay Comic Convention runs from August 1 to August 3, 2025, offering three days of pop-culture excitement.
Guests can explore a huge vendor floor filled with comics, toys, art, and exclusive collectibles. Daily panels cover comics, cosplay, gaming, and more—free with any admission. Celebrity Row features actors, creators, and cosplayers offering autographs, photo ops, and meet-and-greets. Fans of all ages enjoy cosplay contests, workshops, and a welcoming, energetic atmosphere all weekend long.

Hours: See the full schedule details HERE.

Beach Bistro 

Beach Bistro
6600 Gulf Dr Holmes Beach, FL 34217

Beach Bistro offers elegant, toes-in-the-sand fine dining with a relaxed yet refined vibe on beautiful Sunset Beach. Showcasing locally sourced seafood and seasonal ingredients, the menu features standout dishes like citrus scallops, fresh gulf fish, and inventive vegetarian plates. Meanwhile, cocktails and wine pairings are thoughtfully crafted to complement the cuisine, with tropical drinks and curated wines perfect for savoring the sunset. Additionally, the open-air deck seating and attentive service contribute to a laid-back yet luxurious atmosphere, ideal for a special dinner or weekend escape. As twilight settles in, live acoustic music often fills the air, effortlessly transforming your meal into a truly memorable beachfront experience.

Hours: Daily Open 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Big Cat Habitat

Big Cat Habitat
7101 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34240

Big Cat Habitat is a lively nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to caring for rescued exotic wildlife—from roaring lions, tigers, ligers, and leopards to playful primates, bears, and birds—all within thoughtfully designed naturalistic enclosures. Visitors can enjoy daily live animal presentations and educational demonstrations led by caring staff and volunteers, highlighting conservation efforts in an engaging, family-friendly way. Hands‑on encounters with creatures like lemurs, foxes, sloths, and wallabies are available by reservation for a memorable up-close experience. The sanctuary also features a charming petting zoo area with domesticated animals such as goats and llamas, ideal for young visitors to meet furry friends up close. With an on-site bistro, gift shop, private tours, special events, and even wild-yoga sessions, Big Cat Habitat is a dynamic and educational destination that offers more than just animal watching.

Hours: Wednesday through Sunday, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m., closed Monday/Tuesday

Izzy’s Fish & Oyster 

Izzy’s Fish & Oyster
2282 First Street Fort Myers, FL 33901

Izzy’s Fish & Oyster here on the Suncoast is a vibrant seafood destination in downtown Fort Myers’ River District that brings fresh New England flavors to Southwest Florida in a stylish, modern setting. Their raw bar shines, featuring a rotating daily oyster selection alongside creative starters like scallop crudo and ceviche that pop with bright citrus and spice. For a full seafood feast, their seafood towers serve piled‑high oysters, peel‑and‑eat shrimp, ahi tuna stack, and more—perfect to share with friends over cocktails. Cocktails and wine pairings are crafted with care, and specials like “buck‑a‑shuck” happy hour oysters add fun value to any evening out. With a hip but approachable vibe and thoughtful service, it’s an ideal spot for a waterfront stroll before or after dining in this lively downtown area

Hours: Daily Open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Family Day

Family Day
Yuengling Draft Haus & Kitchen
11109 N. 30th St, Tampa, FL 33612

Family Day offers a fun, energetic afternoon perfect for all ages, with free admission and plenty of sunshine‑filled smiles. The event begins after brunch and features a live DJ spinning upbeat tunes on the outdoor deck to keep the good vibes flowing. Kids are delighted by face‑painting stations while adults can relax with a cold beer or seasonal drink in hand. Outdoor games and communal lawn activities encourage playful mingling and make it easy to stroll around and enjoy the atmosphere. Kona Ice is available for a refreshing cool‑down—and the overall casual, friendly setting makes Family Day a go‑to for weekend family fun in the River District

Hours: Brunch from 11 – 3 p.m., and then activities start at 1 p.m.

Photos from the above business website or Facebook pages