By Marlene Shaw
With its mix of businesses and a calendar brimming with over 70 events each year, Gulfport, Florida, continues to capture the attention of entrepreneurs, artists, and visitors. Whether you are a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, Gulfport’s eclectic offerings promise to delight and interest locals and visitors alike.
NORTH END TAPHOUSE Located in the heart of the Village Courtyard, the North End Taphouse quickly became a vibrant social hub. Sharing a common stage with the Low Tide Kava Bar, it is a place where music lovers can enjoy live performances, open mic nights, game nights, silent discos, rugby viewing events, and more. Owner Kelly Wright, originally from South Africa, is bringing a taste of her homeland to Gulfport. On Aug. 10, the Taphouse will host its next South African Night, featuring music by Nzou and the African Soul, a DJ, and a selection of South African wines and cuisine. If you miss this one, do not worry – Kelly plans to hold these events quarterly. Craft drink enthusiasts will find a wide selection of beverages, and the newest addition is a THC infused Kombucha. Whether you are a local or a visitor, the North End Taphouse promises a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere. Facebook: North End Taphouse & Kitchen or www.northendtaphouse.com.
SHUT UP AND WRITE For those who love to write or are seeking inspiration, “Shut Up and Write” offers a perfect opportunity. Led by Jay Gendron, this group meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 6:30pm inside the Gulfport Brewery. Participants enjoy a silent writing period followed by an optional sharing session. This non-profit group fosters creativity in a supportive environment. The Gulfport Brewery, with its friendly atmosphere and diverse menu, provides the ideal backdrop for these gatherings. For future scheduling, visit Shut Up & Write! @ St. Petersburg on www.meetup.com.
SUN SEA AIR YOGA Inspired by Ralph Waldo Emerson’s quote, “Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air,” Sun Sea Air Yoga is the newest addition to Gulfport’s wellness community. Owners Deanne and Dave, who recently moved to Gulfport, have created a serene and rejuvenating space in the former Longhouse Yoga studio. With a background in dance and television production, Deanne brings a unique perspective to her yoga practice. The studio, freshly painted, new flooring installed and equipped with a new sound system, will have a soft opening in mid to late August. Initial offerings will provide a holistic approach including flow yoga, Ayurvedic care and nutrition. Deanne described the space as already having “a wonderful energy” from Andrea Royce and the previous Longhouse Yoga studio.
Deanne’s goal is to create a community-focused oasis of wellness, offering a holistic environment designed to leave clients feeling lighter and nourished. For updates, keep an eye out for their Facebook page, Sun Sea Air Yoga & Wellness, and visit their website at www.sunseaairyoga.com.
DOUGH BABY BAKEHOUSE
Gulfport is not just known for its home-based art studios; it also boasts unique home-based businesses like Dough Baby Bakehouse, a brand-new cottage micro-bakery that specializes in freshly baked artisan sourdough bread and treats. This bread is absolutely delicious, toasted or untoasted! Erica, the proprietor, has been a life-long baker. Approximately one year ago, she built her own sourdough starter and fell in love with the sourdough process. Erica worked in the hospitality industry for about 15 years and always wanted to open a restaurant. When she learned she could bake and sell out of her home under Florida Cottage Food Laws, she said this is when she knew what she had to do.
Baking sourdough is a two-day process that includes a number of steps while keeping a careful eye as it ferments on the counter and then into the fridge for a long cold ferment. Erica explains that this “long ferment, along with good bacteria is what makes sourdough so gut healthy, even for people with gluten intolerances.” There is a pre-order Friday through Monday for a Thursday pickup. Delivery is also available. She also offers sales and a Secret Menu of specialty items that can be viewed online. In the future, Erica hopes to participate in local markets and work with local businesses to hold pop-up events. Facebook/Instagram: @doughbabybakehouse and www.doughbabybakehouse.com.
SPECIAL DELIVERY Mark your calendar for “Special Delivery,” an art event and fundraiser on Sept. 29. Organized by Karen Behmke Love, Julie Armstrong and Carmen Cardona, this event will feature 10 artists who will create unique artworks on mailboxes. The evening will start with a cocktail reception at 5pm at the Catherine Hickman Theater in Gulfport, followed by a live auction at 6pm. Proceeds will benefit the Senior Center Foundation for the construction of the new senior center. For more information, visit the event’s Facebook page: Facebook.com/groups/292379183897216.
MUSIC ON THE PORCH “What if for one day everything stopped and we all just listened to the music.” That is the essence of “Music on the Porch,” a worldwide celebration taking place on Aug. 31. Gulfport residents are invited to join this global event by hosting or attending local music gatherings. For details, visit www.PlayMusicOnThePorchDay.com.
23rd ANNUAL GECKOFEST
GeckoFest season is fast approaching! Do not miss these exciting events: Gecko Crawl and After Party, Saturday, Aug. 17, 4-9pm. Tickets are available at the Gulfport Beach Bazaar or online at www.visitgulfportflorida.com.
Gecko Ball, Saturday, Aug. 24, 6-10:30pm at the Gulfport Casino Ballroom. Costumes are encouraged, so come dressed as your favorite Saturday Night Live Character or Gulfport Glam. Tickets are available at the Gulfport Beach Bazaar or online at www.visitgulfportflorida.com. GeckoFest: Saturday, Aug. 31, 10am-10pm on Beach Blvd. Join the festivities and celebrate Gulfport’s unique spirit.
AN INVITATION Whether you are drawn by the allure of new culinary delights, eager to explore unique shops, experience interesting activities, or enjoy the vibrant local events and inviting community spirit, Gulfport welcomes you with open arms.
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