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Applications Open October 1st for Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts (GFA) Emerging Artists Program

The Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts (GFA) is excited to announce that the Emerging Artists Program (EAP) applications open on October 1st. This unique program, held as part of the renowned festival, provides a platform for emerging artists from across the country to showcase their work, often for the first time at one of the most prestigious art festivals in the nation. Celebrating its 55th year, GFA will host hundreds of juried artists, with a select group chosen for the Emerging Artists Program.

The Left Bank Bistro offers a fresh take on French cuisine.

Venture into the Uptown Art District in St Petersburg and you’ll find an array of businesses that include everything from glamourous art galleries to kitschy dives. It’s also where you’ll find The Left Bank Bistro. Just outside the Crescent Lake area at 1225 Dr. MLK Jr. N, a visit is a step back in time and across an ocean, to a time and place reflecting the fine French fare and iconic artists that made Paris’s Left Bank such a place of historic importance… 

Music & Musings Art Exhibition

Music & Musings Art Exhibition
Free and open to the public
Live music by Daniel B. Marshall Band and snacks by Sonata Restaurant.
Free parking
All art for sale
Cash bar
Friday, October 4th
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
The Mahaffey Theater
400 First Street S.
St Petersburg, FL 33701

PARTY ON THE PLAZA FEATURING #NOFILTER

Join Us for Fall’s Party on the Plaza!
Saturday, November 9 | 7:00 – 10:00 PM
Mahaffey Plaza – 400 1st Street S., St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Enjoy an unforgettable evening at the Duke Energy Center for the Arts – Mahaffey Theater Plaza with live music, food, and fun, all to benefit the Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts. Rock out with #NOFILTER, the dynamic local band bringing the best hits from today and the classics of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. All proceeds directly support youth educational programs, giving Tampa Bay students the chance to experience the performing arts.

Ticket Info:

  • Early Bird Pricing: $25 if purchased by September 30.
  • Regular Pricing: $30 after September 30 or at the door on November 9.
  • Sales Start: Friday, September 13 at 10 a.m.

Purchase tickets online, at the box office, or by calling (727) 300-2000. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the beautiful waterfront views and an electric concert experience you won’t forget!

Upgrade to the VIP Experience!
Support our mission even more with VIP tickets for priority seating, early entry at 6 p.m., complimentary preferred parking, private restrooms, light hors d’oeuvres, a premium beverage, and access to premium liquors.

  • VIP Tickets: $125 each ($100 for Foundation members), with proceeds benefiting the Class Acts Youth Educational Performance Series.

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: Egan Painting, LLC, WUSF Public Media, and Labrador Primary Care Center.

Please Note: No outside food, beverages, or pets are allowed. Lawn chairs and blankets are welcome.

Don’t miss this chance to support the arts and enjoy an incredible night of music!

The Impact of Giving to the Arts: Going Beyond the Check

With the recent budget cuts for arts funding in the state of Florida, it’s crucial to ask: how can we keep the arts thriving in our community? This question came to mind when one of the organizations we work with recently was awarded a generous donation earmarked for youth education in the performing arts. This prompted me to reflect on the true impact of such contributions. Do people stop and think about the profound effects that these funds have on others? We attend these events, and witness the checks being handed over, but do we truly grasp who benefits and how?

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