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Raising Cane

Options abound to make 2020 memorable

January 2, 2020 By Brian Fernandes

It has become a tradition of The Laker/Lutz News to give our readers a preview of what’s in store for the year ahead in terms of fun family outings, affordable entertainment and opportunities to add more color to their lives.

Here’s our look ahead for 2020.

January 
Raising Cane, A Sweet & Spicy Event
When:
Jan. 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Cost: $10 admission per person
Details: Competitors can share their custom-made sugar cane syrup for a cook off. A chili competition also will take place and pancakes will be provided. Patrons can also sample chili at $3.
Info: Call (352) 567-0262.

10th Annual Pigz In Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival
When:
Jan. 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Zephyrhills Community Venue, 5200 Airport Road, Zephyrhills
Cost: Free admission; $10 parking
Details: While live music is playing, a barbeque competition will take place as well as a cornhole tournament. In addition, there will be a business expo, car show and the Kidz Fun Zone. Patrons also can visit the Military History Museum.
Info: Call (813) 782-1913.

 

 

 

15th Annual Suncoast Arts Fest
When:
Jan. 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Jan. 19 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel
Cost: Free
Details: On site will be 125 artists and crafters to display their work. Food, live music and street painting.
Info: Visit www.SuncoastArtsFest.com.

Annual Kumquat Festival
When:
Jan. 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Downtown Dade City
Cost: Free admission and parking
Details: Patrons can purchase all things kumquat including pies, ice cream and cookies, among other foods. There also will be live music as well as arts and crafts.
Info: Call (352) 567-3769 or visit www.DadeCityChamber.org.

 

 

February
Farm Fest & Quilt Show
When:
Feb. 1 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 1502 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Cost: $10 for admission
Details: The event will offer a quilt exhibition, a quilt appraiser, vendors and live entertainment.
Info: Call (352) 567-0262.

Pasco County Fair
When:
Feb. 17 from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Feb. 18, Feb. 19 and Feb. 20 from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Feb. 21 from 3 p.m. to midnight; Feb. 22 from 10 a.m. to midnight; Feb. 23 from noon to 7 p.m.
Where: Pasco County Fairground, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
Cost: $10 for adults; $6 for children ages 6 to 12; Free for those age 5 and under
Details: The event will hold a carnival, a rodeo, various foods, competitions and shows.
Info: www.PascoCountyFair.com

Living History, Civil War
When:
Feb. 28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Feb. 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 1502 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Cost: Feb. 28 – $4 with pre-registration for chaperones and students; $5 at the gate; Feb. 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and March 1. from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. both at $10 admission.
Details: Patrons can purchase food and enjoy reenactments of the Civil War. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs.
Info: Call (352) 567-0262.

March
110th Founder’s Day Parade & Heritage Festival
When:
March 6 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.; March 7 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Historic Downtown Zephyrhills
Cost: Free
Details: The 1920s theme encourages patrons to come in vintage attire. There will be vendors, food, arts, crafts and games.
Info: Call (813) 780-1414 or visit www.MainStreetZephyrhills.com.

Flea Market at Old Lutz School
When:
March 6 and March 7, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., both days
Where: Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41, Lutz
Cost: Free admission.
Details: Come and find bargains galore. Items for sale typically include everything from fine china to crystal to collectibles, as well as art works, books and plants.
Info: Visit the woman’s club’s website, GFWCLutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org

Savage Race
When:
March 14 at 9 a.m. and March 15 at 3 p.m.
Where: Little Everglades Ranch, 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City
Details: Various obstacle courses will be offered to test competitors’ endurance.
Info: Visit www.SavageRace.com.

Dogs Day in Dade City
When:
March 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Agnes Lamb Park in downtown Dade City
Cost: Free
Details: Patrons and their furry friends can team up to compete in various activities.
Info: Call Lucy Avila at (352) 424-4972 or email .

Land O’ Lakes Music Festival
When:
March 21 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
Cost: Free
Details: Patrons are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets as they listen to various bands perform.
Info: Call (727) 842-7651.

Gran Fondo Florida
When:
March 24
Where: San Antonio
Details: Bicyclists can compete through San Antonio during either the 35-mile race, 55-mile race or 100-mile race.
Info: Visit www.GranFondoNationalSeries.com.

April
Jelly Bean Fling
When:
April 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Details: Kids can have their picture taken with the Easter bunny, go on an egg hunt, go inside a bounce house and do face painting.
Info: (352) 567-0262.

June
Zephyrhills Summerfest
When:
June 6
Where: Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
Cost: Free
Details: This event will include fireworks, a watermelon eating competition, live music and kids’ games.
Info: Call (727) 674-1464.

July
Lutz Fourth of July Parade and Festivities
When:
July 4
Where: Downtown Lutz, near the Train Depot
Cost: Free admission and parking
Details: The event includes a race, an old-fashioned parade, vendors, and the election of the honorary Lutz Guv’na.

October
Rattlesnake Festival
When: Oct. 17 and Oct 18
Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
Cost: Admission and parking are free
Details: Live entertainment, mechanical gopher tortoise races, vendors, food and children’s activities.
Info: Visit www.RattleSnakeFestival.com.

 

December
Tour de Clay
When:
Dec. 12 and Dec. 13
Where: Various Tampa Bay pottery studios
Cost: Free
Details: Visitors stop at a number of pottery studios, to see demonstrations, to meet nationally recognized pottery artists and to purchase unique items.
Info: Visit www.TampaTourDeClay.com.

Christmas in the Park
When:
Traditionally held on the first Sunday of December
Where: City Park, 12202 Main St. in downtown San Antonio
Cost: Free
Details: The annual lighting of giant Christmas cards and carol singing.

Festival of Lights on Main Street
When:
Traditionally held the first Saturday of December
Where: Fifth Avenue from Seventh to 10th streets in downtown Zephyrhills
Cost: Free
Details: The event includes food, live entertainment, holiday activities and a Christmas parade.

GFWC Lutz Arts and Crafts Festival
When:
Dec. 5, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Dec. 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Keystone Prep, 18105 Gunn Highway, in Odessa
Cost: Free admission; parking fee (which has been $5 in the past) benefits the school
Details: Hundreds of vendors come from across the country to sell unique items at a juried arts and crafts show, which has a festive feel and a family friendly atmosphere.
Info: Visit GFWCLutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org

Old Lutz School Christmas House
When:
Held on selective dates in December
Where: Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41, Lutz
Cost: Free admission; donations of toys and nonperishable foods are encouraged.
Details: Patrons typically get to tour the school and, for a small charge, there is breakfast with Santa.
Info: Visit www.OldLutzSchool.com.

Published January 01, 2020

Dade City event offers sweet and spicy treats

January 2, 2019 By Brian Fernandes

The community is invited to bring an appetite for the annual Raising Cane: A Sweet and Spicy Event, on Jan. 12.

The function will be held at the Pioneer Florida Museum from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A hot Kiwanis pancake breakfast will usher in the event at opening time for $3.

Most folk-oriented events at the Pioneer Florida Museum encourage musical jam sessions. This one, with a variety of strings, performed in the cool weather at last year’s function. (File)

It will also give patrons the opportunity to try free samples for the cane syrup tasting contest.

Throughout the day, vendors will offer arts and crafts, as well as foods consisting of chili dogs, chili nachos and chili cheese fries.

At 11:15 a.m., the venue will be livened with performances from The Sara Rose Band, The Sandy Back Porch and The Barking Dogs.

Attendees will be able to sample various chili from two challenges – one held by city officials and another by local residents.

Ten tickets can be purchased for $5 with a sampling cup – one ticket per sample.

Three free voting tickets will be granted to guests to decide on their favorite chilis.

Cash and trophy prizes will be awarded to those in first, second and third place at 4:30 p.m.

“We’re looking forward to it,” said Stephanie Black, director at the museum. “It’s a great food event.”

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students and free entry for those under age 5.

Patrons are asked to only bring service dogs with a vest and proper documentation.

For more information or applications, visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org, or email .

Raising Cane: A Sweet and Spicy Event
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
When: Jan. 12 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: $10 for adults; $5 for students; free admission for those under age 5.
Details: The event will offer a pancake breakfast, a cane syrup tasting contest, chili tasting contests and numerous vendors.
Info: Visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org, or email .

Published January 2, 2019

Raising Cane fest offers sweet and savory flavors

January 24, 2018 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

The annual Raising Cane event held Jan. 13 at the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road in Dade City, gave visitors a chance to purchase homemade cane syrup, taste some chili, see cane grinding and enjoy live entertainment. Musicians who enjoy jamming had a chance to do that, too, and there was even a miniature donkey at the event.

Published January 24, 2018

Six-year-old Sofia Quintero, of Clearwater, samples some chili on tostados prepared by Deana Mazurkiewicz, of Zephyrhills. (Richard K. Riley)
Six-year-old Sofia Quintero, of Clearwater, samples some chili on tostados prepared by Deana Mazurkiewicz, of Zephyrhills.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This miniature donkey was part of the Raising Cane festival.
Dade City Manager Billy Poe won first place with his chicken chili in the People’s Choice competition.

 

 

 

Let the good times roll

January 3, 2018 By B.C. Manion

Part of the secret to having fun is knowing where to find it.

And, then once you have figured out some options, it’s good to know early enough so you can do what you need to do, to maximize your enjoyment.

That’s the idea behind this master calendar: It’s a list of fun stuff to do in 2018 — giving readers plenty of time to consider their choices and make some plans.

So, as New Year gets underway, get ready to enjoy yourselves.

January

Raising Cane, a sweet & spicy event
When: Jan. 13, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City

Cost: $5 per person, children under 5 free

Details: Syrup-tasting contest; cane grinding; sugar cane pole tossin’; iron skillet tossin’; chili cook-off, chili verde and salsa competition; entertainment; and, vendors

Eighth annual Pigz in Z’ Hills BBQ & Blues
When: Jan 20, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: Zephyrhills Community Venue, 5200 Airport Road

Cost: Free admission; $10 parking. Benefiting local youth and education programs.

Details: Mouth-watering barbecue, blues music, swine and shine car show, aircraft displays, World War II museum, beer and wine, gift vendors, business expo, kids zone and more. No coolers, limited seating, so bring chairs.

Information: Call (813) 782-1913, or visit ZephyrhillsChamber.org.

13th annual Suncoast Arts Fest
When: Jan. 20, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Jan. 21, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel

Cost: Free admission and parking

Details: More than 125 fine artists and craftsmen; live entertainment; emerging artist booth, featuring work of area middle and high school students; street painting; roaming entertainers; and, free art projects for the kids; kids arts garden and maker space, and more

(File)

Dade City’s annual Kumquat Festival
When: Jan. 27, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Downtown Dade City

Cost: Admission and parking are free; free shuttles for satellite lots

Details: Local entertainment, antique cars, arts and crafts, activities for kids, vendors, health and wellness, kumquat pies, kumquat products, quilt challenge and more. Several events are held leading up to the festival.

Information: DadeCityChamber.org

Shabby Chic Vintage Market & Artisan Day
When: Jan. 28, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: The Grove at Wesley Chapel, 6105 Wesley Grove Blvd., in Wesley Chapel

Cost: Free admission and parking

Details: Artisans, live music, original art, painted furniture, antique vendors, shabby style and cottage glam

February

Farm Fest & Quilt Show
When: Feb. 3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Feb. 4, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Florida Pioneer Museum & Village,15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City

Cost: $10 for adults on Feb. 3; $5 for adults on Feb. 4; $5 for children ages 6 through 12 either day; free for children age 5 and under

Details: Southern Draft Horse Pulling Competition on Feb. 3 at noon; Hoffman Challenge Quilt Collection Show of Quilts and Clothing; Quilt Appraisal and Trunk Show, concessions and food trucks, antique car show, children’s activities, live entertainment on Feb. 4. (Limited seating, lawn chairs welcome for horse pull).

Information: PioneerFloridaMuseum.org

Florida Ranch Days
When: Feb. 10 and Feb. 11

Where: Little Everglades Ranch, 17951 Hamilton Road (U.S. 301 and Gould Road), Dade City

Cost: Free admission; parking, $10 for cars and $25 for RVs

Details: Live entertainment on two stages; strolling performers; swamp buggy rides; guided ranch tours; face painting; petting farm; games and rides; arts and crafts; food and drink

Information: RanchDays.com

Fourth annual Snowbird Palooza
When: Feb. 3, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills

Cost: Free parking and free admission

Details: Free coffee and doughnut mingle hour, fun family activities, free health checks, card games and tournaments, live entertainment and other activities.

Information: Email .

Pasco County Fair
When: Feb. 19 to Feb. 25

Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City

Cost: $10 for adults; $5 for children ages 6 through 12; free for children age 5 and under

Details: Midway, fair food, entertainment, competitions

Information and schedule: PascoCountyFair.com

Living History and Civil War
When: Feb. 24 and Feb. 25, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village,15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City

Cost: $5 admission, children age 5 and under are free

Details: Civil War Reenactments and Living History Encampment. Visitors can tour authentic confederate and union camps, and get a glimpse of what life was like during the U.S. Civil War. There will be battles each day at 2 p.m.

March

Big Flea Market at the Old Lutz School
When: March 2 and March 3, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: The Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41 N.

Cost: Free admission

Details: Thousands of items for sale to generate funds for causes supported by the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club

108th Founders’ Day Parade & Heritage Festival
When: March 10, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (historic downtown Zephyrhills), parade begins at 10 a.m.

Details: Moonshine, Turpentine and Timber is the theme of the parade; as well as a local art display, food vendors, petting zoo, kids’ carnival games and more.

Also, festivities are planned at a second venue.

When: 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Where: Zephyrhills Community Venue, 5200 Airport Road

Details: Live concert, food and merchandise vendors, Busch Gardens penguins and fireworks at 9 p.m.

Information: MainStreetZephyrhills.org, or call (813) 780-1414.

Savage Race
When: March 17 and March 18

Where: 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City

Cost: Parking $10 for cars; $25 for RVs; spectators, $15 in advance; $25 at the door

Details: Twenty-five obstacles, mud in your underwear, chip timing, T-shirt, beer, action photos, camaraderie, memories

Information: SavageRace.com

Dogs Day in Dade City
When: March 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Agnes Lamb Park, in downtown Dade City

Details: Dog wagon parade, dog costume contest, canine got talent, ice cream/yogurt eating contest and more

Third annual Land O’ Lakes Music Fest
When: March 24, noon to 8 p.m.

Where: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park (formerly the Land O’ Lakes Community Center), 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

Cost: Free admission; $10 parking (Bring a lawn chair or blanket)

Details: This Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce event is presented by Ierna’s Heating & Cooling. It features live music, arts and crafts vendors, other booths and more.

Information: Call (813) 909-2722.

Summer Camp Expo
When: March 24, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Florida Hospital Center Ice, 3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd., in Wesley Chapel

Cost: Free admission

Details: Families get a chance to find out about summer camps and activities in the area and businesses get a chance to reach their target audience. There will be entertainment, bounce houses, activity zones, a photo booth, giveaways, character visits and more.

Information: FamilyFriendlyTampaBay.com

Gran Fondo Florida
When: March 24

Where: San Antonio

Details: Bicycle road race through the rolling hills of Dade City and San Antonio. Cyclists can choose to ride three distances: 35 miles, 55 miles or 100 miles, and are timed on certain stretches of the race.

Information: GranFondoNationalChampionshipSeries.com

Jelly Bean Fling
When: March 31, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City

Cost: $5 admission, free parking

Details: Mr. Tommy will join in the Easter Parade, kids will make Easter bonnets, there will be Easter egg hunts for different age groups; and there will be games, a bounce house, face painting and more.

Information: PioneerFloridaMuseum.org

April

Easter Sunrise Service
Where: Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills

When: April 1, 7 a.m. to 8 a.m., rain or shine

Cost: Free admission

Details: Live Christian music, an inspirational message, a live dove release and free refreshments. Seating is limited and lawn chairs are encouraged.

Information: Call Jane Freeman at (813) 783-6192.

Wesley Chapel Boat Show
When: April 20 to April 22

Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel

What: Event showcases boats, boating accessories, fishing gear, apparel and other items.

Information: TheShopsatWiregrass.com

June

Zephyrhills Summerfest
When: June 23, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Where: Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills

Details: Dance and watermelon eating contests, food vendors, bounce houses, family games, crafters, family activities. Event concludes with fireworks.

Information: Email

July

Lutz Fourth of July Parade and festivities
Where: Downtown Lutz, near the Train Depot

When: July 4, parade starts at 10 a.m.

Cost: Free admission and parking

Details: There’s a race and other festivities before and after the parade. The winner of the honorary Lutz Guv’na race is announced following the parade. Additional details will be available closer to the time of the event.

September

A salute to Sept. 11
Where: In front of the Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41, in Lutz

When: Sept. 11, 10 a.m. to noon

Cost: Free admission, free parking

Details: The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club honors those lost on Sept. 11 by waving flags in front of the Old Lutz School.

Information: GFWCLutzLandoLakesWomansClub.org

October

San Antonio Rattlesnake Festival
When: Traditionally held the third weekend of October

Where: City Park, 12202 Main St., San Antonio

Cost: Admission and parking are free

Details: This event typically features music, gopher tortoise races, handmade arts and crafts, children’s rides and games, pumpkin patch, farmer’s market, farm animals, food trucks, beer garden, pioneer village and more.

Shabby Chic Vintage Market and Artisan Day
When: Oct. 21, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: The Grove at Wesley Chapel, 6105 Wesley Grove Blvd., in Wesley Chapel

Details: Artisans, live music, original art, painted furniture, antique vendors, shabby style and cottage glam

14th annual Wesley Chapel Fall Festival
When: Oct. 27 and Oct. 28, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: The Grove at Wesley Chapel, 6105 Wesley Grove Blvd., in Wesley Chapel

Details: Simply Events and The Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce have partnered to bring the community to present the 14th Annual Wesley Chapel Fall Festival, which will include a carnival with rides and games, live music, delicious fall foods, beverages, arts and craft area with pumpkin painting, local business expo, Pumpkin Patch, Halloween celebration on Oct. 27.

Information: WesleyChapelChamber.com

November

30th annual Florida Bug Jam
When: Nov. 10 and Nov. 11

Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City

Information: FloridaBugJam.com

December

Lutz Arts & Crafts Show
When: Dec. 1 and Dec. 2

Where: Keystone Preparatory High School, 18105 Gunn Highway in Odessa

Details: Hundreds of arts and crafts vendors and food booths in an annual show that draws tens of thousands of shoppers

34th annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration
Where: Florida Hospital Zephyrhills front lawn, 7050 Gall Blvd.

When: Dec. 2, noon to 7 p.m., rain or shine

Details: Tree decorating begins at noon. There’s an evening program from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., with musical entertainment, a Christmas message, the lighting of the trees and fireworks.

Information: Call Jane Freeman at (813) 783-6192.

Christmas in the Park
When: Traditionally the first Sunday in December

Where: City Park, 12202 Main St., in downtown San Antonio

Cost: Free admission, free refreshments

Details: Annual lighting of giant Christmas cards, old-fashioned carol singing and other nostalgic touches

11th annual Tampa Tour de Clay
When: Dec. 8 and Dec. 9

Where: Stops at area pottery studios

Cost: The tour is free.

Details: Those making the tour will have the chance to watch kiln openings, talk with nationally known ceramic artists and perhaps do a bit of shopping.

Information: TampaTourDeClay.com

Festival of Lights on Main Street
When: Traditionally held on the first Saturday in December  

Where: On Fifth Avenue, from Seventh to 10th streets, in downtown Zephyrhills

Cost: Admission is free

Details: The event includes food, entertainment, holiday activities and a Christmas parade.

Old Lutz School Christmas House
When: Traditionally held on select dates in December.

Where: 18819 U.S. 41 N., Lutz

Cost: Free admission; donations of toys and nonperishable foods encouraged

For details closer to the time of the event, visit OldLutzSchool.com.

Published January 3, 2018

Resolve to have fun in 2017

January 4, 2017 By B.C. Manion

Maybe 2017 is the year that you’re going to have more fun.

But, perhaps you want to improve planning your activities, and to get a better handle on your spending, too.

The Laker/Lutz News is here to help.

Whether you’re new to area, or have lived here for decades, this guide is intended to help you plan fun activities for you and your family, without breaking the bank.

January
Raising Cane, a sweet & spicy event
When:
Jan. 14, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
How much: Admission: $5 per person
Details: Cane syrup making, cane syrup competition, chili cook-off, salsa competition, greased pole climbing, iron skillet toss, entertainment and vendors

This blues band is keeping the crowd entertained at the Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues fest. (File Photos)

Seventh annual Pigs in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues
When:
Jan 21, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: 5200 Airport Road, at the new community venue
How much: Free admission; $10 parking
Details: Mouth-watering barbecue, blues music, classic car show, aircraft displays, World War II museum, beer and wine, gift vendors, business showcase, kids zone and more
For information, call (813) 782-1913, or visit ZephyrhillsChamber.org.

 

12th annual Suncoast Arts Fest
When:
Jan. 21, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Jan. 22, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel
How much: Free admission and parking
Details: More than 125 fine artists and craftsmen; live entertainment; emerging artist booth, featuring work of area middle and high school students; street painting; roaming entertainers; and, free art projects for the kids

Dade City’s annual Kumquat Festival
When:
Jan. 28, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Downtown Dade City
How much: Admission and parking are free; free shuttles for satellite lots
What: Local entertainment, antique cars, arts and crafts, activities for kids, vendors, health and wellness, kumquat pies, kumquat products, quilt challenge and more
Several events are held leading up to the festival, visit DadeCityChamber.org for information.

February
Farm Fest & Quilt Show
When:
Feb. 4, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Feb. 5, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Florida Pioneer Museum & Village,15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
How much: $10 per day, or $15 for both days.
What: Draft horse pull on Feb. 4 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. (Bring your own lawn chair, limited seating); quilt show, activities, music and more
For information, visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org.

Florida Ranch Days
When:
Feb. 11 and Feb. 12
Where: Little Everglades Ranch, 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City
How much: Free admission; parking, $10 for cars and $25 for RVs
Details: Live entertainment on multiple stages; guided ranch tours on hay wagons; swamp buggy rides; trading post; food roundup; children’s area; and more
For information, visit RanchDays.com.

Third annual Snowbird Palooza
When:
Feb. 11, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
How much: Free parking and free admission
Details: Entertainment, speakers, coffee and donuts social, Bingo tent, live magician, art classes and more
For information, email .s.

Pasco County Fair
When:
Feb. 20 to Feb. 26
Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
Details: Midway, fair food, entertainment, competitions
For a schedule of events, admission charge and other information, visit PascoCountyFair.com.

March
Flea Market at the Old Lutz School
When:
March 3 and March 4
Where: The Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41 N.
How much: Admission is free.
Details: Thousands of items for sale to generate funds for causes supported by the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club.

Second annual Land O’ Lakes Music Fest
When:
March 11, noon to 8 p.m.
Where: Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.
How much: Early bird $10 general admission, $15 at the gate; Early bird $25 reserved seating, $30 at the gate; $5 parking.
Details: Live music, car show, bounce houses, obstacle course, video games, food and drink vendors, business and arts & crafts showcase. No outside food or coolers allowed. Event will be held, rain or shine.

Founders’ Day Parade in Zephyrhills
When:
March 11, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Main Street Zephyrhills District
How much: Free admission
Details: A parade to celebrate Founders’ Day in Zephyrhills. This year’s theme is classic board games.
For information, visit MSZI.org.

Savage Race
When:
March 18 and March 19
Where: 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City
Details: Twenty-five obstacles, mud in your underwear, chip timing, T-shirt, beer, action photos, camaraderie, memories
For information, visit SavageRace.com.

Dogs Day in Dade City
When:
March 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Agnes Lamb Park, in downtown Dade City
Details: Dog wagon parade, dog costume contest, canine got talent, ice cream/yogurt eating contest and more

Zephyrhills Pie Festival
When:
March 25, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
How much: Free admission and parking; $10 all-you-can-eat pie buffet, from noon until 3 p.m.
Details: Pie bakers and vendors, slices of pie and whole pies for sale; pie-eating contests, a pie buffet, local business showcase, kids’ area, DJ entertainment and other activities

Gran Fondo Florida
When:
March 26, start time 8 a.m.
Where: San Antonio
Details: Bicycle road race through the rolling hills of Dade City and San Antonio. Cyclists can choose to ride three distances: 30 miles, 60 miles or 100 miles, and are timed on certain stretches of the race.For information, visit GranFondoNationalChampionshipSeries.com.

April
Jelly Bean Fling
When:
April 8, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Details: Easter bunny, Easter bonnet parade, egg hunt, face painting, bounce house and more
For information, visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org.

Easter Sunrise Service
Where:
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills
When: April 16, 6:45 a.m. to 7:45 a.m.
How much: Free admission
Details: Live Christian music, an inspirational message, a live dove release and free refreshments. Seating is limited and lawn chairs are encouraged.

 

 

 

 

Wesley Chapel Boat Show
When:
April 21 to April 23
Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel
For information, visit TheShopsatWiregrass.com.

June
Third Annual Zephyrhills SummerFest
Where:
Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
When: June 24, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
How much: Free admission, free parking
Details: Live entertainment; bounce houses, slides, a rock wall, trampoline and other kids’ activities; vendor village of arts & crafters; pet friendly; fireworks at sunset
For information, contact .

July
What:
Lutz Fourth of July
When: July 4, parade starts at 10 a.m. (There’s a race and other festivities before and after the parade). More details will be available closer to the event.
Where: Downtown Lutz, near the Train Depot
How much: Admission and parking are free.

November
29th annual Florida Bug Jam
When:
Nov. 11 and Nov. 12
Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
For details, visit FloridaBugJam.com.

 

 

 

December
Lutz Arts & Crafts Show
When:
Dec. 2 and Dec. 3|
Where: Keystone Preparatory High School, 18105 Gunn Highway in Odessa
Details: Hundreds of arts and crafts vendors and food booths in an annual show that draws tens of thousands of shoppers

Christmas in the Park
When:
Traditionally held on the first Sunday in December
Where: City Park, 12202 Main St., in downtown San Antonio
How much: Free admission, free refreshments
Details: Annual lighting of giant Christmas cards, old-fashioned carol singing and other nostalgic touches.

Tampa Tour de Clay
When:
Dec. 9 and Dec. 10
Where: Stops at area pottery studios
How much: The tour is free.
Details: Those making the tour will have the chance to watch kiln openings, talk with nationally known ceramic artists and perhaps do a bit of shopping.
For details, visit TampaTourDeClay.com.

Church Street Christmas
When:
Traditionally held on select dates in December
Where: Historic Church Avenue in Dade City
How much: Admission is free
Details: Enjoy carolers, musicians and other entertainers along a street where the sidewalks are lit by luminaries and the houses are brilliantly decorated.

Old Lutz School Christmas House
When:
Traditionally held on select dates in December
Where: 18819 U.S. 41 N.
How much: Free admission; donations of toys and nonperishable foods are encouraged
For details, visit OldLutzSchool.com.

Festival of Lights on Main Street
When:
Traditionally held on the first Saturday in December
Where: On Fifth Avenue, from Seventh to 10th streets in downtown Zephyrhills
How much: Admission is free
Details: The event includes food, entertainment, holiday activities and a Christmas parade.

REGIONAL EVENTS
These events are beyond The Laker/Lutz News coverage area, but may be of interest to our readers.

Gasparilla Parade of Pirates
When:
Jan. 28, 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: The parade goes from Bay to Bay and Bayshore boulevards, and continues on a route through downtown Tampa, ending at Cass Street and Ashely Drive. (People begin gathering hours before the parade begins; parking can be difficult to find).
Details: The parade includes 130 units, including floats, marching bands, pirates and more.

Florida State Fair
When:
Feb. 9 through Feb. 20
Where: Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. 301 N.
Details: Fair foods, midway, entertainment, competitions
For information, visit FloridaStateFair.com.

Bay Area Renaissance Festival
When:
Weekends, Feb. 18 through April 2
Where: 11315 N. 46th St., Tampa
How much: $17.95 adults, $9.95 children; free parking
Details: Step back to medieval times, with live jousting, and old time foods and shops.
For information, visit BayAreaRenFest.com.

Strawberry Festival
When:
March 2 through March 12
Where: 303 N. Lemon St., Plant City
Details: Strawberry shortcake, entertainment, festival rides, contests, fair foods, competitions and more.
For information, visit FlStrawberryFestival.com.

Chasco Fiesta
When:
March 24 through April 1
Where: Downtown New Port Richey
Details: Chasco Fiesta is a nine-day festival with events ranging from a Native American Pow Wow, to a street parade, to a boat parade to shows, a carnival, a fiesta and more.
For information, visit ChascoFiesta.com.

Florida Blueberry Festival
When
: April 22, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and April 23, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Historic downtown Brooksville
How much: $10 for adults (over 18); $5 for ages 13 to 17; free for those 12 and under; $5 in designated parking areas. The event is pet friendly.
Details: Entertainment, fresh blueberries, kids zone, arts and crafts, beer, wine, food and more
For information, visit FloridaBlueberryFestival.org.

Tampa Bay International Dragon Boat Races
When:
April 29, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Contachobee Fort Brooke Park, 601 Old Water St., Tampa Bay
Details: Rowing teams compete
For information, visit PanamDragonBoat.com, and click on “Events.”

GeckoFest
When:
Sept. 2, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 3101 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport
Details: The theme of the 17th annual GeckoFest will be Geckostock, a celebration of the 1969 Woodstock Festival, as was hippies and the “Peace and Love” generation.

Published January 4, 2017

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What’s Happening

08/09/2022 – Butterfly gardening

The New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will host a master gardener presentation on butterfly gardening on Aug. 9 at 2 p.m. Registration is online at PascoLibraries.org. … [Read More...] about 08/09/2022 – Butterfly gardening

08/09/2022 – Coffee with a deputy

The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office will host “Coffee with PSO” on Aug. 9 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., at Wawa, 25155 Maren Way in Lutz. Deputies will be on hand to answer questions and to get to know the community. … [Read More...] about 08/09/2022 – Coffee with a deputy

08/09/2022 – Native Plant Society

The Nature Coast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society will meet on Aug. 9 at 7 p.m., at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. There will be showing of the 2018 American documentary, “The Serengeti Rules,” directed by Nicolas Brown and based on the book by Sean B. Carroll. The film explores the discoveries of five pioneering scientists: Bob Paine, Jim Estes, Anthony Sinclair, John Terborgh and Mary E. Power. Popcorn will be provided. For information, call 813-469-9597. … [Read More...] about 08/09/2022 – Native Plant Society

08/09/2022 – Transportation stories

The New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will present story times on the topic of transportation on Aug. 9 and Aug. 10. Toddlers can attend at 10:15 a.m., and preschoolers at 11:15 a.m. The 45-minutes sessions will include songs, stories and movement. Register online at PascoLibraries.org. … [Read More...] about 08/09/2022 – Transportation stories

08/11/2022 – Food distribution

Farm Share, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, Pasco Sheriff Charities, The Gentlemen’s Course, and the Pasco County NAACP will host a free food distribution on Aug. 11 starting at 9 a.m., at the Big Lots parking lot, 4840 Allen Road in Zephyrhills. Food will be handed out rain or shine, on a first-come, first-served drive-through basis, until the items run out. … [Read More...] about 08/11/2022 – Food distribution

08/11/2022 – Yarn for a Cause

The New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will host Yarn for a Cause on Aug. 11 at 6:15 p.m., in the Meeting Room. This group creates projects such as blankets for nursing homes, and more. Participants can learn new techniques and show their own projects. Register online at PascoLibraries.org. … [Read More...] about 08/11/2022 – Yarn for a Cause

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