Explore Holiday Lights In St. Pete  Cue the lights and prepare the cameras - the holiday season is finally upon us and that means the Sunshine City is decking the halls in sparkles. The Birchwood family absolutely loves decorating for the season, which is why we created a list of places and events where you can see the best holiday lights and displays in St. Pete. Prepare to be dazzled! Photo: Enchant Christmas   Enchant Christmas - November 26 - January 2 Are you ready for a Christmas adventure to help an elf in need? Follow the story of “The Mischievous Elf” who needs your help to find very important misplaced gifts within the North Pole lights. This magical adventure begins on November 26 at Tropicana Field during Enchant Christmas, a Christmas market featuring a light maze, ice skating trail, Santa’s landing and more! Photo credit: The Oakdale House   The Oakdale House Christmas Display - November 26 - January 3  If your favorite color is Christmas lights, you have to check out The Oakdale House Christmas Display. This is not your typical neighborhood holiday decor. Since 1977, the Oakdale House has become a sensation for using nearly half a million (yes, you read that correctly) lights. The spectacular display has received recognition and inclusion in HGTV's No. 1 "All Out Christmas" and NBC's Today Show Top 3 Christmas Light Displays in the US during the same year.  Photo credit: Ilovetheburg.com   Christmas Tree Lighting at Straub Park - November 27 Kick off the Christmas festivities with St. Pete Mayor Rick Kriseman and special guest Santa Claus during the Christmas tree lighting at Straub Park on November 27 at 6:30 p.m.    Snowfest - December 18 Take a stroll along the waterfront on December 18 anywhere from 9:00am to 2:00 pm for a spectacular display of holiday lights and decor in North Straub Park, South Straub Park, Pioneer Park, Vinoy Park, and the St. Pete Pier. Great time for the whole family!    St. Pete Pier There’s so much to see and do on the St. Pete Pier, especially during the most wonderful time of the year. Explore beautifully decorated trees, gorgeous waterfront views or show off your ice skating skills at the new Winter Beach. Who says there can’t be snow in St. Pete? If you want to enjoy a holiday treat, we recommend stopping by Driftwood Cafe, our sister property on the Pier.  The Birchwood We were not kidding when we said we LOVE holiday lights and decorations. The season is always a special time of year for us whether our guests enjoy views (or even a proposal or two) on our Canopy rooftop bar, enjoy lunch or dinner at Birch & Vine or stay with us at the Birchwood Inn. 

November is one of our favorite times of the year. We love getting into the holiday spirit, celebrating at events throughout St. Pete, and of course, Thanksgiving! That’s why we compiled a list of events you won’t want to miss this year. Read below for more details:  Savor St. Pete Festival - November 6-7 If you consider yourself a foodie, you can’t miss Savor St. Pete from Saturday, November 6 through Sunday, November 7 at North Straub Park. This event will feature food, wine and craft beer tastings that will be sure to delight. Don't forget to try Birch & Vine's Fried Chicken With Caviar and Rosé while you’re there. For ticket information, visit savortheburg.com    St. Pete Run Fest - November 12 -14 Get your heart racing during three days of festival fun at St. Pete Run Rest. You don’t have to be the next Usain Bolt to participate in the races, as all skill levels are welcome from kids to seasoned runners. Enjoy the scenic views of Tampa Bay, and check out vendors like The Rollin’ Oats Wellness Market and Café, post-race food catered by Outback Steakhouse, music, and craft beer from local breweries. Please note this is an ocean-friendly event, so there will be no single-use plastics at the festival. Visit stpeterunfest.org for more festival information. Photographed: Birch & Vine’s famous Haystack Burger   Tampa Bay Burger Week - November 4 - 14 Burger lovers, rejoice! Creative Loafing’s Tampa Bay Burger Week is back starting November 4 - 14. You can enjoy 10 days of delicious burger specials for under $10 at participating Tampa Bay restaurants, including Birch and Vine. Best of all, a portion of the proceeds benefit Feeding Tampa Bay, one of the nation’s top hunger relief organizations. Check out tampabayburgerweek.com for a list of participating restaurants.  Thanksgiving at Birch & Vine - November 25 Don’t worry about spending all day in the kitchen on Thanksgiving. Instead, give yourself, family and friends a much-deserved break and enjoy a delicious meal at Birch & Vine. Enjoy a pre-fixe menu that includes a starter, entree and dessert for $55 or select dishes from the a la carte menu. Bon appetit!    Shopapalooza Festival - November 27 - 28 Support small businesses, local artists, crafters, and makers this holiday season at the 11th Annual Shopapalooza Festival in Downtown St. Petersburg on November 27 - 28. Enjoy local sounds, local tastes and more than 300+ local businesses at this family-friendly event in Vinoy Park. Admission is free and if you register to attend, you could win $500. For more information, visit shopapaloozafestival.com.    We hope you can enjoy the festivities in the Sunshine City! 

Happy National Dessert Day! That’s right, today, October 14, is one of the sweetest days of the year. In honor of one of our favorite holidays, we sat down with The Birchwood Properties’ Pastry Chef Rocco LaPorte and discussed his background, ice cream flavors and what inspires his culinary creations:  Pictured: Pastry Chef Rocco LaPorte with three batches of ice cream   So how did you first get into the world of food? I'm from Chicago and my parents cooked every day growing up. My mom's parents owned a bar that they converted into a restaurant in Chicago and I have lots of uncles and aunts who are either chefs or they own catering companies. So I was just really immersed in it from a young age. I’ve seen a wide variety of cuisines living in Chicago and because of my European background.    What was the first thing you ever created/cooked that you remember?  The first thing I ever did was probably cookies at home with my mom and sisters. As I got older, I realized I could just make whatever I wanted to eat.    How did you get into the profession? My aunt owns a shop in Chicago and there’s a bakery next to it that we went to a lot. When I was sixteen, the bakery was hiring and knew that I liked to cook, so I got that job in high school. I made brownies, cookies, banana bread and other things, but I never thought of it as work. That was my first experience, and I didn’t think I would do it professionally after that. I bounced around doing other things and went to college for nursing. But I couldn't see myself doing it forever. Later, I thought about pastry school and I went to The French Pastry School in Chicago for about a year. Pictured: Chef Rocco creates Birch & Vine’s popular Peanut Butter Bars    How does your heritage inspire you? My grandparents are from Germany and I was raised with really good quality European pastries. Those are the types of things I like to make because they aren’t easy to find. They aren’t something you can get from a typical grocery store. So if I wanted it, I had to make it or purchase it at a German bakery.    Do other cultures inspire your cooking style?  I try to pull inspiration from everywhere. Being from Chicago, I’ve seen a lot more than other places. Like other major cities, there are many types of cuisine in Chicago. I’ve also traveled and I try to pull inspiration from other places.    How did you end up at The Birchwood?  I moved to St. Petersburg without ever having been here. I didn't have a job or an apartment, and I secured both on the drive down. My first job was as the assistant number one to the pastry chef at th St. Pete Yacht club. Later, The Birchwood’s Executive Chef Lee Aquino found me on LinkedIn, and that’s how I started here. When the Pier was under construction, I was asked to help with our sister properties, Pier Teaki, Teak and Driftwood Cafe. And of course, I wanted to be part of that.  Pictured: Chef Rocco prepares Pineapple “Right Side Up” Cake for Teak   What do you do for each property on the Pier?  I make the ice cream for Driftwood Cafe and a few desserts for Teak like Pineapple "Right Side Up" Cake and the Pecan Pie Bread Pudding.    Why do you enjoy being a chef? I like to be creative and do things that other people enjoy. But also I get to enjoy myself. I think I like the nostalgic part of it. And just being able to kind of treat people by making their celebrations special, or doing something that will make it special and then they might remember.    Describe your food style in five words or phrases. Classic with a twist, fruity, rich, nostalgic & inspired.    What inspires you?  New ingredients and fresh flavors.    What is the most memorable meal you've ever enjoyed? It was a rabbit dish cooked by my chef friend Matt Starling in a Kentucky restaurant that I worked at.. It was braised, tender and savory and my first time trying rabbit.   Who is a chef or a food personality that you admire? I think my Oma, who is my grandma from Germany. My grandparents got the bar and turned it into a restaurant. And really, that’s what made me turn to the whole pastry thing.    Where do you see yourself going in five or ten years?  I want to continue in the pastry field. What I want to do is get a couple more aspects of the art under my belt and master them. There are certain things that I've done every day for years that I feel strong about. And there are other things that I haven't, like croissants for example. I've done them, I can do them, but I want to be the person that's been doing them for months every day. I've done sugar sculptures. fruit tarts, lots of doughs, mousses, and ice cream all day for years. But I specifically want to master chocolate work and croissants.  Pictured: Three fresh batches of Cookies N’ Cream Ice Cream for Driftwood Cafe   What is an interesting ice cream flavor you created for Driftwood Cafe?  So the Driftwood Cafe serves super premium ice cream and it’s not custard. But that means it has a lot more cream. We do a lot of mix-ins and nostalgic American flavors. I once created a flavor called Mexican Mocha that had a chocolate base with coffee, which was popular.   

October has arrived which means fall is officially here! To celebrate the excitement of pumpkin season, we have compiled a list of exciting events in the Sunshine City. From the arts to beer festivals to pumpkins galore, read below for upcoming events in October. St Pete Pier Fall Festival & Pumpkin Patch: October 9 - 25 From October 9 -10, The St. Pete Pier Fall Festival will kick off fall festivities at the Pier with family-friendly activities, food trucks, vendors and more. Then, until October 25,the St. Pete Pier Pumpkin Patch will continue so you can enjoy classic fall fun. The hay bales, autumn-themed refreshments, photo booth, and of course the pumpkins will be sights to see for the whole family. Dia De Los Muertos: A Continued Celebration of Life - October 8  The Atelier de Sosi Gallery cordially invites you to Dia de los Muertos 2, an art show reflecting a holiday full of life, contemplation, family, food and fun. Guests are welcome to come dressed for the occasion to celebrate a showcase rooted in tradition. You can also purchase sugar skulls and decorate them with your designs. More information is available here.  Free Spiribam Rum Tasting - October 14 Join Birch & Vine for a night of specialty rum & chef-curated hors d'oeuvres at 5:00 p.m. on October 14. Admission is free and registration is required. You won’t want to miss this event!    SHINE St. Pete Mural Festival - October 15 -24 Back for its seventh year, the internationally recognized Shine St. Petersburg Mural Festival will take place on October 15-24. This year, the festival will feature 16 new murals located throughout the arts districts and Bright Spots, which are community murals aimed to engage and inspire viewers. Check out the event website for more information about the artwork and the talented artists.  American Stage Presents The Odd Couple - Oct 27 – Nov 21 What happens when two brothers with two different personalities decide to live together? Hailed as one of the greatest comedies of all time, Neil Simon’s “The Odd Couple” won the Tony Award for Best Play. “The Odd Couple” has experienced wide-spread acclaim with two Broadway revivals, a movie adaptation, inspired two sitcoms and staged by international theatres. Now, you can watch a fresh interpretation featuring a modern, multicultural casat brought to you by American Stage. Get your tickets today!  Halloween on Central - October 31 Experience downtown St. Pete in a whole new way this Halloween from 12 - 5 p.m. Halloween on Central will demonstrate what a car-free Central Avenue could feel like as attendees are free to walk along nearly 2 miles of the Sunshine City’s largest open spaces. This free event will feature Halloween themed family-friendly activities like trick-or-treating, entertainment, costume  contests and more.  St. Pete Beach Drive, Dine & Wine Tour - Thursdays Calling all foodies and drink connoisseurs: this one’s for you. Explore downtown St. Pete Beach Drive on a guided walking food tour of premier destinations such as the Vinoy Hotel, Birchwood Inn, The Canopy, Bella Brava and Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro for food and adult beverages. And don’t forget about the dessert chocolates from Sweet Diva’s. Tours cost $75.00 per person. Book yours today!    Tasting Tuesdays at Birch & Vine Perfect for date night, getting together with coworkers or catching up with friends, Tasting Tuesdays at Birch & Vine is the place to be Tuesday evenings. Enjoy half off appetizers and select bottles of wine. See you there!     So much to do, so little time! Whatever you choose, we hope you have a wonderful time!   

What happens when you take food to the molecular level? And how do you use the same ingredient to create a whole new taste? The Birchwood’s Executive Sous Chef Darren Bloom recently sat down with us and shared his modern and sophisticated cooking techniques, his journey through the culinary arts and how he and his team reinvent classic dishes: How long have you been with The Birchwood? I've been here for almost seven years. How did you get started in the culinary field? I have a lot of experience opening upscale delis across Florida. I managed people from the get go and then found my way into fine dining. Fine dining always sparked my interest, so when I had the opportunity to join the Birchwood, I ran with it. Where did you train to become a chef? What did you have to learn to transition into fine dining? I learned my craft on the job. The biggest thing I had to learn was speed. Everyone's moving 100 miles an hour, so you just have to sort of step in the line and just start running with them. Do you get involved with plating dishes? Yes, I do. We do upscale plating and put a spin on modern cuisine. Every ingredient is something that someone else has had, but we try to alter it in a different variety than you've had before. So this way, it's still an Americanized dish, but it has traits from every other nation on it. We make everything from scratch. Tell us about the delicious charcuterie boards at Birch & Vine. We offer five meats and five cheeses. The cheeses range from local U.S. cheeses to prize- winning cheeses around the world. And then the meats are pretty copacetic from where you have everywhere else, just flavored a little differently. We have a cured Tuscan sausage, Finocchiona, that’s really popular. It has fennel in it, which makes it a little different. What is unique about your cooking style? I cook more molecular food. So I like to take something and then totally alter it perceptually. For example, I'll take a Caprese salad and then I can make the burrata cheese in the glass. Or I’ll experiment to see if I can try to turn something into a foam, or an air or caviar. I try to spin everything so you're eating the same ingredient you’ve had 100 different times, but now for some reason this sweet potato comes to you in little pearls. How do you learn about different technologies that you can use? Reading and watching a lot of videos about a lot of chefs that were into molecular cooking. I just thought it was neat to be able to take something and have someone have that wow factor for something they had 100 times over. Tell us about the Birch & Vine menu. Everything on the menu has a twist. For example, we take Mexican street corn and add Korean ingredients. And then we take a mole and we turn it white instead of the stereotypical color that it is. So it's kimchi corn, that’s served street corn style. And instead of mayonnaise, it comes with a white chocolate mole. Instead of grits, we serve rice grits and then we flavor it with nduja. So everything just is familiar to you, but it just has an unexpected flavor profile. So can you describe your food style in five words? Modern, sophisticated, delicious. local ingredients. What are some local farms you'd like working with? We use Cactus Hat Mushrooms Company based in Tampa. We've also used a chicken farm out of Tampa. We source our local microgreens from local farmers in the Tampa Bay area, and all of our seafood is Gulf Coast driven. Everything's really a local catch of the day. We don't really ship in products from too far away, because we try to keep everything fresh for the day. What inspires you? My children. I want them to understand that hard work does pay off and to follow their ambitions and stay intrigued with what you do. Because then it doesn't necessarily become work. It becomes more of a life, and a path that you choose. What is your definition of a chef? Being a chef means that you're going to run 100 miles an hour to make sure everyone else is happy. The whole job consists of everything from peeling a potato to running around putting patches on a floor to coming up with a new menu. You're the person running the show. What is it like behind the scenes? Are there any misconceptions about the industry? Here at the Birchwood and Teak family, we are all pulling the same wagon towards the same accomplishment. There's a lot of effort that goes into our work. I think a lot of times people see the chef table shows where these restaurants are doing these courses of the same exact thing. But it's completely different when you have 400 people ordering 400 different entrees with 400 different allergies. It’s a challenge that I love every day. Why do you enjoy being a chef? I enjoy when someone eats my food, and they're blown away from it, and they just have to have the urge to tell me. I love the fact that people just start enjoying themselves around something that I created. I get to express myself on a plate and I love it when people understand what I’m trying to create. Those are always the greatest moments.

September in the Sunshine City is upon us and so are many local events in our community. From charity cook-offs to art exhibits to exciting festivals, there is something for everyone. Guests at The Birchwood are perfectly poised to enjoy everything St. Pete has to offer this fall, and we’d be delighted to welcome you here at our boutique hotel just steps away from the St. Pete Pier. Explore these upcoming activities and start making plans for a September to remember:  Salvador Dalí Museum: Lee Miller Exhibit - until January 2022.  The Salvador Dalí Museum presents The Woman Who Broke Boundaries: Photographer Lee Miller. This exhibit explores the work of photographer Lee Miller, who is known for her remarkably incisive portraiture and photojournalism and colorful personal life. You can view more than 130 photos in the exhibit only in St. Petersburg. Don’t miss the chance to discover the extraordinary photographer’s life experiences. Tickets are available here.    16th Annual Evening With The Chefs - Friday, September 10 Eat, drink and support the future of hospitality at the16th Annual Evening With The Chefs, The World on Your Plate on Friday, September 10. Chefs including Teak’s Executive Sous Chef Troy McCue and Birch & Vine Chef Darren Bloom will partner with Pinellas County culinary students to create global-inspired small bites, desserts and more. Proceeds benefit the Ryan Wells Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to improving culinary arts and hospitality education of Pinellas County students. Get your tickets here. September Soirée - Thursday September 16 The Birchwood is hosting a September Soirée on Thursday, September 16 from 6:00 pm-8:30 pm. Couples can view mock ceremony & reception designs, while connecting one-on-one with local wedding pro's. Attendees will enjoy a champagne welcome social, appetizers, sweet treats and a chance to win a two night hotel stay at the Birchwood, a free engagement shoot by lifelong photography studio or $800 in gift certificates to Truly Forever Bridal Tampa. Get your tickets here. St. Petersburg Margarita Festival - Saturday, September 18 The ultimate margarita party is coming to the Sunshine City on Saturday, September 18. The St. Pete Margarita Fest offers attendees 10+ margarita tastings, great music, food for purchase and more! Please note all attendees must be 21+. Get your tickets today!   Tampa Bay Food Fight - Tuesday, September 28 Who will take home the crown at the ultimate culinary Battle of the Bay? Top chefs, including Teak’s Executive Sous Chef Troy McCue and Birch & Vine's Executive Sous Chef Daren Bloom, in St. Pete and Tampa will compete at the 5th Annual Tampa Bay Food Fight, a fundraiser benefiting Metropolitan Ministries. You can get your tickets here.   Zubrick Theater - Thursdays - Saturdays Experience the wonder at St. Pete's only magic theatre. Voted as the best family magic show, the Zubrick Theatre is located in Downtown St. Petersburg and gives audiences an intimate and unforgettable evening of magical entertainment. Watch in wonder as illusionists Chris and Ryan Zubrick combine comedy and grand-scale illusions. Tickets are available Thursdays - Saturdays. Get your tickets now before they disappear!  P.S. - Did you hear the news? Creative Loafing's Best of the Bay is back and YOU get to vote for your favorite businesses, events, places, people and more. This year, the Canopy's very own Chris Davenport is nominated for Best Bartender. Vote for Chris and your other favorites at bobtampabay.com

Weddings are one of our favorite events to host at The Birchwood! Located in downtown St. Pete – The Birchwood is a boutique hotel that is ideal for couples looking for a modern and timeless venue setting. The elegance in this historic wedding venue can be seen throughout their 1920’s inspired vintage glam decor, award-winning rooftop lounge, and chic design. The five-story Spanish Mission-style building sits at a prime location on Beach Drive, overlooking the picturesque St. Pete Pier, Straub Park, and Tampa Bay. The historic inn underwent a major renovation in 2013 and is listed in the National Registry of Historic Places, as well as a historic landmark in St. Petersburg. The remodel included an upscale rooftop bar and lounge, The Canopy, that offers breathtaking views of downtown St. Pete’s waterfront, making it an ideal cocktail hour and after-hours hotspot. Say “I Do” With A View The Ceremony: Grand Ballroom: “Say ‘I Do’ with a View!” Ceremonies are held within the east wing of our Grand Ballroom while overlooking North Straub Park, the waters of Tampa Bay, and Beach Drive. Up to 120 guests for a traditional ceremony, combined with a ballroom reception. For couples with guest counts higher than 120, a reception style ceremony is an alternative option within the ballroom. Couples are also welcome to host an off-site ceremony at a local church, park, or garden! LGBTQ friendly Ceremonies include: Gold Banquet Chairs, 8’ Birchwood Wooden Posts, Ceremony Pipe and Drape & Private Champagne Toast for Couple The Cocktail Hour: Guests can enjoy their cocktail hour all within the Grand Ballroom, utilizing our welcome foyer, main ballroom, and two private outdoor terraces. We also offer an upgraded semi-private Canopy Rooftop cocktail hour, where wedding guests can enjoy the cabanas, outdoor living room area, waterfront glass look-out area, and their own private Satellite bar. The Reception: The Grand Ballroom features a vintage glam, coupled with a simple elegance that is the perfect palate for any wedding day celebration. Natural light pours through the fourth floor Grand Ballroom and Terrace which spans 4,000 sq. ft. Upon walking into the private event space your eye immediately goes to the modern chandeliers, which add to the elegant atmosphere. Located just one level below our iconic Canopy Rooftop, the Grand Ballroom can accommodate weddings, rehearsal dinners, post-wedding brunches, and other celebrations with up to 200 guests. The ballroom includes exclusive use of our welcome foyer, custom built-in bar, private restroom suites, and two outdoor balconies with panoramic views of the downtown St. Pete/Beach Drive area. 200 seated dinner/250+ Standing Reception Style The Food and Drink: The Grand Ballroom includes a full-service catering kitchen, complete with its own team of talented Chefs who are dedicated to servicing your wedding reception. We include a la carte meal selections which allow each couple to cultivate their very own wedding menu! The Birchwood sources several local, fresh and organic ingredients in order to provide the best meal experience for all guests. A complimentary wedding tasting is also included with all booked couples. Depending on your hosted bar preferences, there are a variety of selections to feature as well as a fun Signature Drink add-on! Small Wedding Packages Custom packages are available for intimate celebrations ranging from 30-60 guests. Available for Sunday-Thursday bookings only. Packages include 4-hour reception, decorative décor, and linens, cocktail hour hors d’oeurves/displays, plated entree/dinner buffet, champagne toast, open bar, and coffee station. Rehearsal Dinner and Brunch Packages Looking to kick off the wedding weekend with a welcome reception/rehearsal dinner? Or perhaps wind things down with a farewell brunch? The Grand Ballroom is the perfect location to host your pre and post-wedding weekend festivities! A’ la carte options and package pricing are available. Plan With The “A” Team Selected as one of WeddingWire’s Couples’ Choice Awards, The Birchwood owes much of the praise to our fabulous wedding team. Team members like Event Sales Manager Mary Barnett help visions come to life as couples navigate their venue wish list and Event Coordinator Heather Lorenz ensures your day runs smoothly and beautifully. See What Couples Have To Say Jenna-Marie recently tied the knot at the Birchwood on June, 5 2021. She shared her experience with WeddingWire: “My now husband initially proposed to me at the Birchwood and it was perfect. Considering how amazing the Birchwood was, I had to have my wedding there. We had a meeting with Heather Lorenz and I knew then that this was the place. Heather was amazing and so accommodating regarding everything. They made me feel so comfortable and helped with every decision and detail. If I had to go back and do it again, I wouldn’t change anything. The ballroom was absolutely gorgeous, and everything was exactly how I wanted it. The staff was prompt and courteous and we heard nothing but great things from everyone that attended. The food was even better the day of the wedding and we were absolutely blown away. We are looking forward to celebrating our anniversary at the Birchwood. If you’re on the fence regarding wedding venues, we promise you will not be disappointed.” Photo: Jenna-Marie’s Summer Wedding At The Birchwood Chat With Vendors At Our Annual September Soiree Join us on Thursday, September 16, 2021, from 6-8:30 p.m for our September Soiree, our annual wedding and venue showcase. Couples will experience an interactive tour, explore mock ceremony and reception sets and chat with various vendors. Don’t miss the opportunity to win prizes like a two night hotel stay at The Birchwood, a free engagement shoot by Lifelong Photography Studio or $800 in gift certificates to Truly Forever Bridal Tampa. Get your free tickets today! Thinking about wedding plans? Give us a call at (727) 896-1080 to learn more about making your dream day into a reality.

What will August 2021 in St. Pete look like for you? Live music? Comedy shows? A visit to a local festival? We encourage you to soak up the sun here in Sunshine City and live your best life this month! Keep reading for a list of things you might want to include in your August plans:   August 14: Kick The Bucket List: The World According to AARP This hilarious, clean comedy show is fantastic for not only baby boomers but great for all adult audiences. Comedians like Scott Novotny, John Carfi, and Bob Burr poke fun at growing older with a sense of humor, mix stand-up comedy, magic, and trips down memory lane. General admission prices are $25 and VIP tickets are $35. Tickets can be purchased here.    August 15: Yoga at the Dali Museum Lucky Cat Yoga presents Yoga at the Dali, a special class that infuses the mental, physical and emotional benefits of yoga with Dalí's creative energy. The class takes place Sunday, August 15 at the Raymond James Community Room or Avant-Garden, both of which have stunning waterfront views. The cost is $10 for members and $15 for non-members. More information is available on the museum’s website.    August 26: One Night of Queen  Queen fans, are you ready to rock during an unforgettable evening? Gary Mullen & the Works will recreate a complete Queen concert with fan-favorites like “We Are The Champion”, “Bohemian Rhapsody”, “Killer Queen'' and more on Thursday, August 26 at the Mahaffey Theater. Since May of 2002, Gary Mullen & The Works have performed globally to sold-out audiences and received rave reviews. around the globe to sold-out audiences and have been received with rave reviews. Get your tickets here.   Photo: Morean Arts Center    August 28: 10th Annual Great St. Pete Cupcake Contest Who needs baking shows on Netflix and the Food Network when an exciting contest is right here in St. Pete? Satiate your sweet tooth at the 10th Annual Great St. Pete Cupcake Contest at the Morean Center for Clay on Saturday, August 28 from 12 pm-3 pm. Timed admission tickets will include a to-go container for either 12 or 24 mini cupcakes. You can purchase tickets on Eventbrite.   Every Saturday: Saturday Morning Market Williams Park is the place to be on Saturday mornings for the summer market. Enjoy browsing through local farm products, national produce, tasty bites, beverages, artisan foods, and crafts from local vendors. The summer market will run through Saturday, September 11, and starts at 9 am until 1 pm. Visit the Saturday Morning Market website for more information.    DJ nights at the Canopy During select weekend nights throughout August, The Canopy at the Birchwood welcomes guests for fun beats and delicious drinks. Sit back, relax and enjoy local DJs like DJ Sam Sin, Don Pablo, and Shannon mix tunes.   There's so much to do throughout the month of August this year. We hope this list inspired you to create some fun plans, and we look forward to seeing you here at The Birchwood!  

Searching for a romantic vacation just for the two of you? Look no further than Downtown St. Petersburg and discover a mini oasis away from home. Whether you want to share a meal together or indulge in luxury, we have you covered. Read more below for some weekend vacation inspiration: 

Book Your Stay Birchwood Inn

Immerse yourself fully into vacation (or staycation) mode as you take in the Roaring Twenties-themed decor, elegant style and gorgeous bathrooms at the Birchwood Inn. Located on Beach Drive in Downtown St. Pete, The Birchwood Inn sits only a short distance away from art museums, scenic waterfront views and live music. Learn more about booking your stay at http://www.thebirchwood.com/the-birchwood/.  

Pamper Each Other at Tranquility Wellness Day Spa

Indulge with a relaxing couple’s massage among other spa services and treatments at the luxurious Tranquility Wellness Day Spa in Downtown St. Petersburg. Personalize your experience by selecting services ideal for you such as facials, manicures, pedicures, Reiki, body treatments and more. Discover Tranquility Day Spa’s offerings at https://tranquilitywellnessspa.com/.   

Enjoy a Delicious Lunch at Teak 

Located at the Pinnacle of the St. Pete Pier, Teak provides an enticing selection of nautical-inspired cuisine. You’ll find specialty dishes like the cast iron mac & cheese, seafood arancini and personal paella. Enjoy an elevated casual dining experience as you both take in the waterfront views and serene ambiance. Check out Teak’s menu at https://teakstpete.com/. 

Share Dinner Together at Birch & Vine

Enjoy a romantic dinner at the award-winning Birch & Vine restaurant located right under the Birchwood Inn. The menu features seasonal offerings infused with local and organic ingredients that blends a French rustic style with an American twist. Did we mention the phenomenal wine selection? Take your pick from over 460 varieties or ask the house Sommelier for a recommendation. 

Explore the Sunken Gardens

Stroll into botanical paradise amidst a busy city and discover the breathtaking 100-year-old Sunken Gardens. More than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers call this hidden gem home. The flock of flamingos and cascading waterfalls among other natural beauties make it a beautifully romantic destination. Find out more about the Sunken Gardens at https://www.stpete.org/visitors/sunken_gardens.php. 

Brunch on the Rooftop

Make a toast with a mimosa and enjoy the views at The Canopy at The Birchwood, St. Petersburg’s favorite rooftop lounge. Perched above The Birchwood Inn, The Canopy offers signature cocktails, seasonal menu items and comfortable outdoor seating. Come back in the evening and watch the rooftop transform into the hottest spot in town. Read more about The Canopy at http://www.thebirchwood.com/thecanopy/.    We hope our list inspired your next romantic getaway. We hope to see you soon!  

The summer sun is hot and the nights are long in July, and St. Pete is reopening and booming full of events for everyone in the family. No matter your taste, interest or vibe, St. Pete’s got you covered. Check out our monthly lineup of some of our favorite happenings in the St. Pete Area. Enjoy some summer beats at Cage Brewing. Photo: Skywalker Adventures

St. Pete Summer Jam – July 2-4

Enjoy three days of jams July 2-4 at Cage Brewing, featuring the music of the Grateful Dead and more. Enjoy artists like George Pennington III and Rusty Strings alongside food and merchandise vendors. Lawn chairs and pets are welcome. Tickets are required and vary based on the number of days. Gates open at 3pm on Friday and Sunday, and 2pm on Saturday. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/st-pete-summer-jam-tickets-151288858047 for more information. There’s so much to do during the Fourth at St. Pete Pier. Photo: St. Pete Pier  

The Fourth Independence Day Celebration at St. Pete Pier – July 2-4

Join us at St. Pete Pier for the Inaugural “The Fourth St. Pete Pier Independence Day Celebration” for St. Pete’s biggest Fourth of July celebration. This three-day event features fun for the whole family, including the first-ever St. Pete Pier Run, food trucks and other vendors, live music on the Visit St. Pete Mainstage, a silent disco and other interactive activities. The fun runs all weekend long, 5pm-10pm on Friday July 2, 12pm-10pm on Saturday, and 6am to 9pm on July 4th, culminating in an amazing fireworks display on the waterfront at 9pm. The impressive display can be visible from the entire Downtown waterfront, including Bayshore Dr., Straub Parks, Vinoy Park, and more. For more information, visit https://stpetepier.org/thefourth/.  Marvel at illuminated drones! Photo: Visit St. Pete Clearwater

City of St. Pete’s Duke Energy Drone Light Show: Celebrating One-Year Anniversary of the St. Pete Pier – July 6

Celebrate the anniversary of one of St. Pete’s most iconic locations in an iconic way! Watch as 300 illuminated drones create massive 5000 foot wide displays in the one-of-a-kind experience. Gather with your friends and family from 5pm-10pm at Spa Beach Park for local entertainment and DJs, followed by the drone show at 9pm. The first 2000 guests that arrive at the park will receive special wristbands that will interact wit the display. Wristband distribution will begin at 8pm at the event merchandise tent located at the entrance to Spa Beach Park. Visit https://stpetepier.org/event/anniversary/ for more information. Learn about the fascinating world of chimpanzees. Photo: Suncoast Primate sanctuary

Celebrate World Chimpanzee Day at Suncoast Primate Sanctuary - July 10

Celebrate World Chimpanzee Day at the Suncoast Primate Sanctuary’s outdoor park from 10am-4pm on July 10. Enjoy special tours, view chimpanzee art, and other activities for children. Picnic lunches to enjoy at the park are welcome, as are well-behaved and leashed dogs. Suggested donations are $15 for adults and $10 for children 10 and under (2 and under free). Please visit http://www.suncoastprimate.org/ for more information. Explore whales in new, high-tech ways. Photo: Visit St. Pete Clearwater

Whales: Living with Giants – Through Aug 31

Explore the world of these massive creatures now through August 31 at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Activities include multi-media exhibits, a virtual reality experience, walk-through life-size whale gallery, kids’ interactive zone, and a theater featuring whale-related films and speakers. And on July 5-8 and 12-15, you can enjoy an interactive experience with real mermaids, included with admission! Tickets vary by experience and type of guest. Visit https://www.cmaquarium.org/ for more. Lee Miller; Photo: Dali Museum

The Woman who Broke Boundaries: Photographer Lee Miller – July 13 through January 2, 2022

Opening July 13 at the Dali Museum, this special exhibit celebrates the portraiture and photojournalism of the groundbreaking female photographer, offering an in-depth look at events that shaped the 20th century. Entry is included in museum admission. Tickets must be purchased in advance at https://thedali.org/exhibit/photographer-lee-miller/.  The classic loves story gets a rewrite; Photo: American Stage

Romeo & Juliet in America (The One with a Happy Ending) – July 21-31, Select Days

This bold retelling of one of Shakespeare’s most famous tales imagines how life would have been if the two star-crossed lovers received a different fate. Complete with street fights, party crashing and clandestine encounters, plot twists drive the tale towards a satisfying conclusion. Performances are in Williams Park at 7:30pm with gates opening at 6:30pm. Performances run Thursdays-Sundays, with a preview on Wednesday, July 21. Tickets range from $20-$50 and are available at: http://americanstage.org/romeojuliet/  Enjoy colorful art, jewelry and more!; Photo: Visit St Pete Clearwater

The Women of Summer Art, Glass and Jewelry – July 17-August 28

Visit the Syd Entel Gallery in Safety Harbor for a celebration of female artists featuring work in a variety of mediums from canvas and metal to clay and glass. Hours are Tuesday-Friday, 9:30am-5pm, Saturday 10am-3pm, and closed Sunday and Monday.  Visit https://sydentelgalleries.com/ for more information. Join us for the 32nd Annual Cool Art Show; Photo: PAVA

The 32nd Annual Cool Art Show – July 24-25

Explore the works of over 60 unique artisans at this FREE art show at the St. Pete Coliseum, from 10am-5pm on Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sunday. Food concessions will be available as well, including beer and wine. Visit https://pava-artists.org/cool-art-show-2021 for more information.    Summertime is in full swing and there’s an event for everyone this July in St. Pete. Which event are you most excited about?