Cool Art Show
Date: July 18th and 19th
Time: 10am to 5pm (July 18th) and 10am to 4pm (July 19th)
Location: St. Petersburg Coliseum, 535 4th Ave. N., St. Pete
The Professional Association of Visual Artists (PAVA) will hold its 37th Annual Cool Art Show, showcasing nearly 70 Florida artists working across a wide range of mediums. Visitors can browse everything from paintings and ceramics to jewelry, glass and mixed media, while enjoying interactive art activities for all ages. New this year, the event also features PAVA’s Annual Members’ Award Show, celebrating outstanding work by participating artists. Admission and parking are free.
Romance on Central: Mini Book Fair
Date: July 18th
Time: 12pm to 3pm
Location: The Book Lounge, 631 Central Ave., St. Pete
Romance readers can meet nearly 20 authors at Romance on Central, a cozy mini book fair celebrating the genre’s many beloved tropes—from slow-burn love stories and romantasy to small-town romances and page-turning contemporary favorites. The event offers opportunities to chat with authors, have books signed and discover your next great read while connecting with book lovers.
Tampa Bay Ice Cream Festival
Date: July 19th
Time: 11am to 8pm
Location: St. Pete Pier, 600 2nd Ave. NE, St. Pete
Celebrate National Ice Cream Day at the Tampa Bay Ice Cream Festival, where dozens of local vendors will serve up everything from classic scoops and frozen treats to creative desserts at St. Pete Pier’s Family Park. With flavors to suit every taste, the free, family-friendly festival offers a sweet way to spend the day while sampling offerings from some of the region’s favorite ice cream makers and specialty dessert shops.
Al Downing Honors Jazz Concert
Date: July 19th
Time: 4pm
Location: The Palladium, 253 5th Ave. N., St. Pete
The 2026 Al Downing Honors celebrates the enduring legacy of the late jazz icon, educator and Tuskegee Airman Alvin J. Downing while recognizing individuals who have advanced jazz appreciation throughout the Tampa Bay region. Hosted by Erica Sutherlin and featuring a performance by acclaimed jazz vocalist Allison Nash, the event commemorates St. Petersburg’s annual Al Downing Day with an evening of music, recognition and tribute to one of the city’s most influential cultural figures.
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