By Marlene Shaw
April 1st Was No Fool’s Day in Gulfport April began with a milestone, not mischief. On April 1, history was made as Gulfport’s newly elected City Council – marking a new chapter for the city – was officially sworn in. City Hall overflowed with proud residents, with dozens more gathered outside watching the live ceremony on a big screen. Councilmember Marlene Shaw opened the event with a heartfelt invocation, honoring the women who’ve helped shape Gulfport’s political legacy – beginning with our first woman mayor, Yvonne Johnson, and including Councilmembers Dawn Fisher, Barbara Banno (both present), and Yolanda Roman, represented by her mother and daughter. Shaw also read aloud the names of other pioneering women who couldn’t be there but whose impact was deeply felt. With the ceremony complete, the new council wasted no time – rolling up their sleeves and getting right to work.
Walk as One for Peace – World Labyrinth Day, May 3
On Saturday, May 3, join millions around the world in a “moving meditation” as part of World Labyrinth Day. At precisely 1pm local time, participants globally will walk labyrinths together, creating a wave of peace that rolls from one time zone to the next.
Gulfport’s celebration takes place in Clymer Park near the Catherine Hickman Theater, where a temporary labyrinth will be set up for the day. In addition to the meditative walk, expect a lineup of family-friendly activities that explore mindfulness, creativity, and connection. Labyrinths are often mistaken for mazes, but their purpose is the opposite: not to confuse, but to clarify. Used for over 3,000 years in cultures across the world, labyrinths are ancient tools for reflection, healing, and spiritual growth. Clymer Park’s labyrinth may be temporary, but it carries with it the hope of a future permanent installation. Learn more at www.worldlabyrinthday.org.
Mother’s Day – May 11
Looking to spoil Mom this Mother’s Day? Gulfport offers a range of delicious options, whether she’s in the mood for something more elegant or prefers a laid-back vibe. For a charming setting, Pia’s Trattoria is a perennial favorite. With its lush garden patio and cozy Italian fare, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely brunch or dinner. Just blocks away, The Pearl offers up an upscale dining experience with refined dishes and fine wine – ideal for moms who love a touch of elegance. If your celebration leans more casual, there are plenty of diverse options open on Beach Boulevard and throughout Gulfport.
Memorial Day – May 26
This Memorial Day, we pause to remember. Not just the names etched in stone, but the lives behind them – mothers, fathers, sons, daughters – who gave everything so we could live in freedom, not just for its land, but for its ideals. Their sacrifice wasn’t just in battle – it was in the birthdays missed, the hugs never given, the futures left behind. Today, we don’t just honor the fallen. We carry them with us. In our silence. In our gratitude. In how we live, serve, and care for one another.
As we look around today, we’re reminded that the freedoms they died defending are not immune to erosion. Division, disinformation, and distrust are testing us from within in ways we once only feared from without. Their sacrifice calls us not only to remember, but to remain vigilant. To stand against forces that chip away at truth, justice, and unity. To defend not just our borders, but our character. This Memorial Day may their memory remind us of who we are at our best – brave, resilient, and committed to each other. Let us fly our flag in unity. Welcome WonderWorks – A Creative Space for Midtown A fresh spark of creativity is lighting up Midtown Gulfport. WonderWorks, the newest venture from community champions Aimee Kosta and Erin East – founders of the Midtown Business Collective – is now open as a co-creative, co-working hub designed to bring people together in meaningful ways.
Part gathering place, part meeting place, part incubator of ideas, WonderWorks is a warm, welcoming cottage-style space for learning, dreaming, and connecting. It’s also home to the Midtown Business Collective headquarters and a new Visitor Information Center.
“We want it to feel like a cozy, communal cottage,” says Kosta. “A place where people can meet new friends, share ideas, learn something new, or finally launch that dream they’ve been carrying.”
Applications are open for workshop leaders, artists, healers, and anyone passionate about sharing knowledge or sparking inspiration. Monthly memberships are also available. Interested? Visit www.WonderWorksGulfport.com or find them on social media.
Buddha & Blooms: A Garden-Inspired Art Challenge and Show at Gulf Orchids Artists across Gulfport embraced the beauty of nature with the Buddha and Flower Art Challenge, a 30-day creative journey hosted through the Gulfport Florida Artists Facebook page.
Each day in April, participants were challenged to share a new piece of art inspired by gardens, blossoms, wildlife, or serene Buddha imagery. Those who completed the full challenge – posting one artwork per day – will be invited to showcase and sell their creations at a special garden art show on May 10, from 11am to 2pm, at the lush and vibrant Gulf Orchids located at 5313 Gulfport Blvd. S. It’s a celebration of creativity, mindfulness, and spring in full bloom – perfect for art lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.
Markets and Community Traditions
The Tuesday Market continues to thrive, welcoming visitors every Tuesday from 9am to 3pm. It’s a perfect opportunity to stroll through town, browse local vendors, pick up fresh produce, and enjoy Gulfport’s unique eateries.
The Gulfport Night Markets have been bringing lively crowds, a variety of vendors, open businesses, and music throughout. Catch it on the first Friday and third Saturday of each month from 5pm to 9pm along Beach Boulevard (2800-3200). More details at www.VisitGulfportFlorida.com or on Facebook at Visit Gulfport Florida.
The 49th Street Makers & Growers Market happens on the first Sunday of each month at Red Feathers Studio, 1301 49th St. S, from 10am to 2pm. Expect a vibrant mix of local food, drinks, plants, herbal medicines, handmade goods, and live music.
MUSIC, OPEN MICS & JAMS
Live music happens every day in Gulfport, including open mics and jams every weekday:
- Mondays – Acoustic in the Round Open Jam, North End Taphouse, 5:30-7:30pm.Tuesdays – Open Mic, North End Taphouse, 7-10pm.
- Wednesdays – Tiki Open Mic, The Wine House, 6-9pm.
- Thursdays – Open Mic, Gulfport Brewery, 6-9pm.
- Fridays – Open Mic, Seabreeze Manor.
- 1st & 7th of each month – Open Mic, The Blueberry Patch.
- 11th of each month – Open Jam, The Blueberry Patch.
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