By Marlene Shaw
Gulfport Buzz: New Markets, Local Gems, and Exciting Events
Gulfport is a town that knows how to evolve while staying true to its roots. From vibrant markets that celebrate local creativity to fresh faces breathing life into beloved businesses, there’s always a new reason to explore this coastal community. Here’s what’s making waves in Gulfport this month. www.visitgulfportflorida.com
MARKETS AND COMMUNITY TRADITIONS
Gulfport Night Market. Mark your calendar! The Gulfport Night Market debuts in February, bringing a fresh twist to the beloved First Friday Art Walk and Third Saturday Indie Faire. In collaboration with Tampa Bay Markets, the Gulfport Merchants Chamber of Commerce is hosting this new event along Beach Boulevard (2800-3200 blocks) from 5-9pm.
Local artists, makers, and boutique vendors will showcase handcrafted treasures, from jewelry and clothing to pet products and artisan foods. Don’t miss the inaugural market on Feb. 7, followed by the second event on Feb. 15. For details, see www.visitgulfportflorida.com or the Visit Gulfport Florida on Facebook.
Get Growing. Love gardening or landscaping? Gulfport’s city horticulturist, Toffer Ross, is here to help! Join Toffer every second Wednesday at 1pm in the Gulfport Library Garden to gain valuable insights on Florida-friendly planting, tree care, and more.
SPOTLIGHT ON GULFPORT’S BUSINESSES
Salty Pup Coffeehouse and Bakehouse. Located at 5004 Tangerine Ave. S, this cozy café has taken over the beloved Mama Pearl’s, with Jeff and Jody now at the helm. Stop in for breakfast, lunch, or coffee and enjoy the inviting décor – and don’t worry, Mama Pearl’s famous dessert breads are still on the menu! Free parking. Facebook: Salty Pup Coffee
Gulf Orchids. New owners Joe Yannazzone and James Higginbotham have revitalized this orchid haven at 5313 Gulfport Blvd. S. Specializing in orchids, orchid plants, loose blooms, tropical plants, fresh cuts, lucky bamboo, and custom arrangements, Gulf Orchids also features a cozy event space with seating for up to 20 guests and other types of events. Facebook: Gulf Orchids
Drip! Art Lounge. Unleash your creativity at 5142 Gulfport Blvd. S. Drip! Art Lounge offers traditional canvas painting, fluid painting, mixed media, watercolor, classes and other art experiences for all ages. Perfect for parties, family outings, children’s parties or solo inspiration, this delightful venue is owned by the talented and welcoming Haley. 727-440-6384 info@dripartlounge.com
Seabreeze Manor Inn & Breeze Café. The Seabreeze Manor is now owned and operated by a family. A Gulfport gem! This historic “Old Florida” style inn at 5701 Shore Blvd. S boasts bay views, six charming suites, and a welcoming café open daily (closed Mondays) from 9am to 2pm. Don’t miss the new Friday open mic nights, complete with a pop-up bar in their serene courtyard. Space is also available for special events. www.seabreezemanorinn.com
Monday Morning Club. New, a vintage diner themed coworking event and space at 1401 49th St. S. Open 9am to 5pm. It is described as a new way for people “to work from home” in a community space. Current offerings include monthly memberships, event rentals, and day passes. www.petesbagels.com
Stormrunners has recovered from the hurricanes that hit right after their opening. They have live music Friday nights and they are adding other nights as well. Their menu and fabulous view have had many positive comments.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Gulfport Special Delivery On Feb. 8, join the fun at the Catherine Hickman Theater with a reception at 5pm and a live auction at 6pm. Ten local artists have transformed mailboxes into masterpieces, with all proceeds benefiting the Gulfport Senior Center Building Fund.
Gulfport Pet Mayor Election. It’s a paw-sitively adorable tradition! Any Gulfport pet can enter the race, with $1 votes supporting Friends of Strays Animal Shelter. Voting closes Feb. 20, and the winner will be inaugurated at Gulfport Get Rescued on Feb. 22. All proceeds will benefit Gulfport Arts & Heritage and Friends of Strays Animal Shelter in St. Petersburg. www.gulfporthistoricalsociety.or/gulfports-pet-mayor
21st Annual Get Rescued Festival. Celebrate pets and their people at this beloved festival on Saturday, Feb. 22, from 10am to 5pm along Beach Boulevard. Featuring up to 50 rescue groups, vendors, crafts, artwork, pet-food and supplies drive, animal training demos, raffles, and even the Florida Wiener Dog Derby, this event is free to attend and pet-friendly. Free admission and parking. Proceeds from the event will benefit participating animal rescue groups.
Music Gear Market at The Icehouse. On Feb. 15 (rain date: Feb. 16), music lovers can explore equipment vendors and enjoy local flavors at 701 49th St. S.
Gulfport’s Municipal Election. Signs, signs everywhere. Candidate forums and Meet the Candidate events are happening to offer an opportunity to meet and speak with candidates. This writer is a city council candidate for Ward 2 and by all appearances (and rumors heard) it will be an interesting election. The election is March 11.
It is a time of change. The Ward 4 councilor resigned due to alleged inappropriate actions. An interim councilor was appointed. This position was up for re-election and only one person qualified. Ward 3 councilor is moving out-of-state, which appears will result in another appointment. As previously written, the Mayor and Ward 2 councilor is up for re-election with two qualified candidates also in the race, which means three in the race for each position. EVERY VOTE COUNTS!
IMPORTANT: Due to changes in the law, vote by mail ballot requests expire after every general election. Everyone must re-sign up for vote by mail in 2025. The deadline to request a ballot to be mailed is 5pm, Feb. 27. It is important to ensure you have not been dropped from the vote by mail list. You can request a Vote by Mail Ballot from the Pinellas Supervisor of Elections Office or www.votepinellas.gov
The mailing schedule for domestic ballots will begin Jan. 30 and no later than Feb. 6. Gulfport is more than a town—it’s a community bursting with creativity, tradition, and heart. Stay connected and discover more by following Gulfport Matters on Facebook. See you around town!