LocalShops1 has long been a St. Pete star and a favorite for showcasing local businesses. This year, the independent company turns 15 years old, and they’re marking the anniversary with a gigantic celebration in downtown St. Pete.

Dubbed “The Party of the Year,” the anniversary bash takes place at The Floridian Social on Thursday, August 24, from 6-9 pm. Festivities include cocktails, appetizers, fire dancers, live music, aerial performances, signature drinks, and an address by keynote speaker Charlie Justice, the Pinellas County Commissioner.

Tickets for the extravaganza are on sale now, either $25 for GA or $50 for VIP, and attendance is limited to 300 attendees. Gloria West and The Gents will bring their incredible musical talent to the stage twice throughout the evening, complemented by Michele Northrup “The Saucy Queen,” aerial and fire performances, and the keynote address. There will be a raffle winner given away that includes $1,000 plus in value.

Appetizers will be provided by Calamansi Co, along with desserts created by JB’s Sweet Addiction. There will also be live painting performances by local artists Alyssa Marie and JP DiCarlo. Learn more and get tickets here.

LocalShops1 is an advocate for local, independent business

Founded by Ester Venouziou, LocalShops1 is one of the Tampa Bay Area’s biggest supporters of local businesses, providing outlets for businesses to not only get started, but experience real growth. Aiming to be a source for all things local, their mission is “to provide advocacy, support and education to locally owned, independent businesses throughout the region.”

The company actually got its start as a list Venouziou kept on a scrap piece of paper at her home to help her parents find local shops and restaurants to check out when they would visit town. From there, it grew to a group on Facebook, blossoming quickly, and eventually leading to the LocalShops1 we celebrate today, a grassroots organization that is now Tampa Bay’s most active advocate for local businesses.

Learn more about LocalShops1 and their upcoming events here, where interested vendors can also apply for future markets and events.

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