The St. Pete CommUNITY Festival is back and bigger than ever. On March 8, from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., Azalea Park (7335 13th Ave N) will transform into a hub of music, food, and family-friendly fun. Formerly known as the West St. Pete Community Festival, the event has been rebranded to better reflect its mission—bringing together the entire St. Pete community for a day of celebration and connection.
A strong entertainment and local vendor lineup
Aron Bryce, President of the Council of Neighborhood Associations (CONA) and festival organizer, is excited to see the event grow. “This festival was born out of a desire to create a successful community gathering outside of downtown St. Pete,” Bryce said. “We wanted to bring together neighborhoods, nonprofits, small businesses, families, and even our four-legged friends. It’s about celebrating what makes our city special—our people.”
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Originally planned for fall 2024, the event was postponed due to hurricanes. While the delay was a setback, Bryce sees it as a blessing in disguise. “The extra time gave us the opportunity to fine-tune every detail,” he said. “Now, we have an even stronger lineup of entertainment, vendors, and activities.”
A full day of family-friendly entertainment in St. Pete
The festival offers something for everyone. Live performances will keep the energy high, starting with Greg Roy & the Pressure Band’s Bob Marley tribute from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., followed by Dead Set Florida playing Grateful Dead classics from 4:30 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. Ajeva takes the stage at 6 p.m. for an original set before closing out the night with a Pink Floyd tribute from 7:45 p.m. to 9 p.m.
For families, the Kid’s Corner will be packed with free activities, including balloon art, face painting, a photo booth, and a Sensory Kids Zone. The St. Petersburg Police Department will host a Bike Rodeo, while the Mini Highland Cattle Company offers an adorable photo opportunity. Donations will also be accepted for Love Thy Neighbor Food Pantry and Hank’s Bark Box.
“We wanted to make sure there were plenty of engaging activities for children,” Bryce said. “This event is about bringing people together, and that includes families with young kids.”
Supporting local businesses and artists
Vendor Village will showcase local businesses, nonprofits, and artisans. Car-Free St. Pete will run a bike valet, ensuring that cyclists have a secure place to leave their bikes. Food vendors include local favorites like Shiso Crispy, Duke of Ribs, Tiki Tim’s, Momoliciouz, Coconut Cart, The Little Fruit Cart, The Crumb Factory, Uncle Louie G’s, and Pipo’s Original Cuban Cafe.
“We made a point to select food vendors that represent the diversity of St. Pete’s culinary scene,” Bryce explained. “These are businesses that people love, but maybe don’t always get a chance to visit.”
Local artists will also have a strong presence, with live painting demonstrations and art sales throughout the day. “The arts are such a vital part of St. Pete’s identity,” Bryce said. “We’re proud to provide a platform for local talent to showcase their work.”
All about community engagement
Beyond entertainment and food, the festival emphasizes community involvement. Organizations like the St. Pete Marine Exploration Center and Birds of Prey will offer educational experiences. The St. Pete Police Department, St. Pete Fire Rescue, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority will also be on hand to connect with residents.
Mayor Kenneth T. Welch will deliver a proclamation at 5:45 p.m., highlighting the importance of unity within the city. “This festival isn’t just about having a good time—it’s about strengthening our connections as a community,” Bryce said. “The partnerships we’ve formed are what make this event truly special.”
Persevering after the storms
Planning the festival hasn’t been without challenges, particularly in the wake of last year’s hurricanes. “It was tough to reschedule everything, but our team and partners pulled together,” Bryce said. “The storm was a reminder of how important community support is. That’s exactly what this festival is about.”
For those attending for the first time, Bryce offers some advice. “Bring a chair or blanket, and plan to stay a while. Try the food, check out the local artists, and meet your neighbors. And if you can, bring a donation—whether it’s food, pet supplies, or an old electronic device for Gadgets4Good. Every little bit helps.”
With an expanded lineup and a stronger-than-ever commitment to community engagement, the St. Pete CommUNITY Festival promises to be a highlight of the year. Don’t miss the chance to experience the UNITY in community at Azalea Park on March 8.
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