In this email:
Hope your weekend’s not lame. (Spoiler: It won’t be if you follow this guide.)
👋 Hey there {{First Name}}!
Heck yes — this weekend’s looking stacked across Southwest Florida. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect excuse to get out of the house (or just need to justify skipping laundry again), here’s your ultimate weekend rundown — casually curated, just for you
🎸 Country Thunder Florida 2025: Beer, Boots, and Blake — What More Do You Need?
If your weekend ends up lame, don’t blame us—Country Thunder’s bringing the heat!
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🗓 Date & Time: Friday, May 2 – Sunday, May 4, 2025
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⏰ All Day
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📍 Location: Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL
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🎟 More Info: Country Thunder Florida
Why You Should Go: Country Thunder Florida 2025 is set to electrify Tampa with a stellar lineup featuring headliners Riley Green, Blake Shelton, and Jelly Roll. The festival kicks off on Friday with performances by Riley Green, Ella Langley, Dillon Carmichael, Owen Riegling, and Abby Anderson. Saturday brings the energy with Blake Shelton, Jake Owen, Chayce Beckham, Bayker Blankenship, The Kentucky Headhunters, and Angie K.
The weekend wraps up on Sunday with Jelly Roll, Ashley McBryde, Clint Black, Drew Baldridge, Dallas Smith, and Nolan Sotillo taking the stage. Set against the backdrop of Raymond James Stadium, this three-day event offers a mix of country music’s biggest names and emerging talents, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
🌊 Tampa Riverfest 2025 – Two Days of Food, Music & Waterfront Magic
Zero hesitation. Full send. That’s the Riverfest energy we need.
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🗓 Date & Time: Friday, May 2, 2025 – ⏰ 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM & Saturday, May 3, 2025 – ⏰ 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
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📍 Location: Tampa Riverwalk (Curtis Hixon Park, Water Works Park & more)
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🎟 More Info: thetampariverwalk.com/events/riverfest.html
Why You Should Go: Tampa Riverfest is a free, two-day celebration that transforms the Riverwalk into a vibrant festival of food, music, and community spirit. Kick off Friday evening with the Taste of Riverwalk, where local restaurants serve up their signature dishes, followed by a mesmerizing balloon glow at sunset.
Saturday is packed with activities: indulge in Taco Fest, enjoy live concerts at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, participate in yoga sessions, and witness the colorful lantern parade. Don’t miss the headline performance by Sister Hazel on Saturday night. With events spanning multiple parks and a variety of family-friendly activities, Riverfest offers something for everyone. It’s the perfect way to experience the best of Tampa’s waterfront culture. Great excuse to grab some friends and spend the day along the river.
🎩 Rick Thomas: Mansion of Dreams – Warning: You May Believe in Magic Again
Spoiler: The ‘trick’ is you’ll leave fully believing in magic again.
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🗓 Date & Time: Friday, May 2, 2025
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⏰ 7:00 PM
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📍 Location: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL
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🎟 More Info & Tickets: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Why You Should Go: Step into a world where dreams and reality intertwine in Rick Thomas’s Mansion of Dreams. This award-winning illusionist, honored as “Magician of the Year” by the Academy of Magical Arts and recognized as “Illusionist of the World” by the World Magic Awards, brings a mesmerizing performance to Sarasota.
Expect a blend of stunning magic, extreme comedy, exquisite dancers, and an inspiring story that captivates audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime magic enthusiast or new to the world of illusions, this show promises an unforgettable evening of wonder and enchantment.
🏒 Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Florida Panthers – Game 6* – The Battle of Florida Heats Up…Maybe
Hope is alive. Barely. But it’s alive. ⚡ Let’s go, Bolts!
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🗓 Date & Time: Friday, May 2, 2025
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⏰ Time TBD (if necessary)
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📍 Location: Amerant Bank Arena, Sunrise, FL (Watch parties throughout Tampa Bay)
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🎟 More Info: NHL Playoffs Schedule
Why You Should Go: The Tampa Bay Lightning have reignited their playoff hopes with a commanding 5–1 victory over the Florida Panthers in Game 3, narrowing the series deficit to 2–1. This pivotal win showcased the Lightning’s offensive prowess, with standout performances from Jake Guentzel and Nikita Kucherov.
As the series intensifies, Game 6 could be the deciding factor in this fierce rivalry. Whether you’re attending in person or joining local watch parties, the electrifying atmosphere and high-stakes action make this a must-watch event for hockey enthusiasts.
🎨 Downtown Sarasota Spring Craft Fair – Scoop Up Handmade Treasures (Or Just Pretend You’re Shopping for Gifts)
When you tell yourself it’s ‘window shopping’ but leave with three handmade candles.
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🗓 Date & Time: Saturday, May 3, 2025
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⏰ 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sunday, May 4, 2025 | ⏰ 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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📍 Location: Five Points Park, 1 Central Ave, Sarasota, FL
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🎟 More Info: Visit Sarasota County
Why You Should Go: Immerse yourself in a vibrant showcase of creativity at the 5th Annual Downtown Sarasota Spring Craft Fair. This beloved event transforms Five Points Park into an open-air gallery, featuring over 100 local and national artisans. Discover a diverse array of handmade goods, from intricate jewelry and pottery to unique paintings and clothing.
The fair also boasts a Green Market, offering fresh plants, gourmet spices, and artisanal soaps. Whether you’re seeking the perfect Mother’s Day gift or a special treat for yourself, this craft fair is a must-visit destination for art lovers and shoppers alike.
🌮 Manatee’s 4th Annual Taco Fest – Tacos, Tunes & Family Fun—A Fiesta You Can’t Miss
Squad goals = friends, tacos, and a mariachi soundtrack.
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🗓 Date & Time: Saturday, May 3, 2025
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⏰ 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
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📍 Location: Manatee County Fairgrounds, 1402 14th Avenue West, Palmetto, FL
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🎟 More Info: Manatee’s 4th Annual Taco Fest
Why You Should Go: Get ready for a flavorful fiesta at Manatee’s 4th Annual Taco Fest! This family-friendly event promises a day filled with mouthwatering tacos from over 100 of the Tri-State Area’s best food vendors, specialty cocktails, and live entertainment. Kids will enjoy the dedicated zone featuring a free petting zoo, jump houses, face painting, and free children’s books provided by the Manatee Early Learning Coalition.
With an attendance of over 4,000 guests in previous years, this year’s fest is set to be bigger and better, extending event hours until 7:00 PM. Don’t miss out on this rain-or-shine event that celebrates community, culture, and, of course, tacos!
🎶 Fleetwood Mach Tribute Show – Relive the Magic, or You Can Go Your Own Way
Warning: excessive twirling may occur. (Highly encouraged.)
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🗓 Date & Time: Saturday, May 3, 2025
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⏰ 7:30 PM
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📍 Location: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL
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🎟 More Info: Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Why You Should Go: Get ready to be transported back to the golden era of rock as Fleetwood Mach brings the iconic sounds of Fleetwood Mac to life. From “Dreams” and “Rhiannon” to “The Chain” and “Landslide,” this tribute band delivers spot-on renditions of the classics that defined a generation.
Lead vocalist Lisa Ewing channels Stevie Nicks with uncanny precision, capturing both her haunting vocals and ethereal stage presence. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the magic of Fleetwood Mac, this performance promises an unforgettable night of music and nostalgia.
🇭🇺 Sarasota Magyar Festival – Goulash, Folk Dancing & Archery—Hungarian Culture Comes Alive
You may spontaneously break into twirls after one lángos.
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🗓 Date & Time: Saturday, May 3, 2025 | ⏰ 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM & Sunday, May 4, 2025 | ⏰ 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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📍 Location: Sarasota County Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL
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🎟 More Info: Visit Sarasota County
Why You Should Go: Step into a vibrant celebration of Hungarian heritage at the 18th Annual Sarasota Magyar Festival. This two-day event offers a rich tapestry of experiences: savor authentic Hungarian dishes like goulash and chimney cakes, enjoy live performances from bands such as Életfa Zenekar and Haverock Band, and witness captivating folk dances and fashion shows.
Families will find plenty to enjoy with a dedicated kids’ corner featuring games and activities. Don’t miss the thrilling archery and falconry demonstrations that showcase traditional Hungarian skills. Whether you’re of Hungarian descent or simply a cultural enthusiast, this festival promises a weekend filled with flavor, music, and fun.
🎯 Pick Your Adventure (Because Adulting Can Wait)
Whatever vibe you’re chasing — tacos, tunes, magic shows, or playoff hockey chaos — there’s something happening this weekend that’s basically screaming your name.
Get out there, soak up the sun (or the lasers), and make a memory or two. And hey, if you find the best taco or catch an insane roller derby moment, hit reply and tell me — I live for this stuff.
See you out there — and don’t forget: adventures > laundry, every time. 🌟
Until next time,
— The Waves Pest Control Team 🌊
