Car, concert and comedy lisitings
BARS
SARASOTA
Bacalao Sports Grill Bar
George W. Carroll Jazz Quartet. Every Sunday at 7 p.m., except the second Sunday of each month during season. The second Sundays will feature Carroll’s 17-piece Sarasota Sunsets. No cover. 1100 N. Tuttle Ave. 366-0157.
B.C.’s Recovery Room
Beer, wine, light snacks. BC’s Hardcore Comedy Jam, 9 p.m. today. / Keith Rich, 9 p.m. Fri. (O) / Siesta Key Lei, 9 p.m. Sat. (R, B) / Carolyn, 9 p.m. Wed. (O). 2119 Siesta Drive. 364-8653; bcrecoveryroom.com.
The Beach Club
Kettle of Fish, 10 p.m. today. (R) / Chris Otto, 5 p.m. Fri. (R) / The Untouchables and DJ, 10 p.m. Fri. (R, DJ) / The DT’s, 5 p.m. Sat. (R) / Men From Mars and DJ, 10 p.m. Sat. (R, DJ) / Reggae Sundays with Roadblock and DJ, 10 p.m. Sun. (RA) / Dana from Kettle of Fish, 10 p.m. Mon. (R) / The Ensemble, 10 p.m. Tues. (R) / Ladies Night with Ben Hammond and DJ, 10 p.m. Wed. (R, DJ). 5151 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key. 349-6311.
Cabana Inn
Beer, wine, liquor. Karaoke, 9:30 p.m. today, Sun. / G-Force, 9:30 p.m. Fri. (R) / Live band and dancing, 9:30 p.m. Sat. (R) / Todd Edmonds Acoustics, 9:30 p.m. Tues. (R) / 421 Band, 9 p.m. Wed. (R). 2525 S. Tamiami Trail. 955-0195.
Café Gabbiano
Luigi Toth, 6:30 p.m. today, Fri. 5104 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key. 349-1423.
Club Phoenix
Open 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. DJ Imminent and DJ ShockToTheSystem, today (DJ) / DJ Imminent and DJ DaZe, Fri. (DJ) / DJ Imminent and DJ Daze, Sat. (DJ). 1266 Old Stickney Point Road, Siesta Key. 346-1711; phxtemple.com.
Cork and The Bottle Shop
Refined dining. Debbie Keeton and Gary Deary, 7:30 p.m. today, Tues. (J). St. Armands Circle, 388-2675; corkonthecircle.com.
Esca
Upscale restaurant with full bar. Andres Colin, 6 p.m. Fri.-Sat. (L) / DJ Kensi & Guests, 10 p.m. Fri. (H) / DJ Shambala and Friends, 10 p.m. Sat. (DJ) / DJ Secret Squirrel, Sugarpill & Guests, 10 p.m. Wed. (RA).1888 Main St. 365-3722; escasrq.com.
Euphemia Haye’s Haye Loft Lounge
Upscale lounge and dining. Carol Ettman, 7:30 p.m. today-Sat. (J) / Mike Markaverich, 7:30 p.m. Sun. (J) / Matt Bokulic, 7:30 p.m. Mon. (J) / Dean Miller, 7:30 p.m. Tues., Wed. (J). 5540 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. 383-3633; euphemiahaye.com/HayeLoft.
15 South Straight Up Martini Bar
Music, drinks, food. Benny Ribaudo, 7 p.m. today-Sat. (J) / Big Night Out, 9 p.m. Sat. (L) / Luigi Toth, 7 p.m. Sun., Wed. (J) / Al Hixon Sit In Jazz Jam, 6:30 p.m. Tues. (J). 15 S. Boulevard of Presidents, St. Armands Circle. 388-1555; 15southristorante.com.
5 O’Clock Club
Nightly music, full bar. Democracy, 10 p.m. today (RA) / Paul Galestro, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Fri. (B) / Highway to Hell, 10 p.m. Fri. (R) / The Boneshakers, 10 p.m. Sat. (R) / Local Celebrity, 10 p.m. Sun. (RA, O) / Al Fuller’s Blues Jam, 8:45 p.m. Mon. (B) / Cherry Bombs, 10 p.m. Tues. (R) / Three Peace Band, 10 p.m. Wed. (R). 1930 Hillview St. 366-5555; 5oclockclub.net.
Flamenco Lounge at Ceviche
Big Night Out, 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Fri. (L). Third floor, 1216 First St. 952-1036.
Flying Dog Cafe
Soups, salads, sandwiches, beer, wine. High Fly, 6 p.m. today (J). 500 Tallevast Road. 359-9788; theflyingdogcafe.com.
Gecko’s Grill & Pub
Seafood, burgers, soups, salads, sandwiches, full bar. Karaoke with Dee Jay Brad, 10 p.m. Wed. (O). 4870 S. Tamiami Trail. 923-8896; geckosgrill.com.
Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill
RPM, 6 p.m. today, Tues. (R) / Acoustic Pete Blues Trio, 2 p.m. Sat. (R) / Roadblock, 3 p.m. Sun. (R) / Ladies Night with DJs Mike and Jaime, 10 p.m. Wed. / 606, 6 p.m. Wed. (R). 5253 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key. 346-8122; gilligansislandbar.com.
Horse Feathers Grill & Lounge
Michael Royal Trio, 7 p.m. Wed.; 6 p.m. Sat. (J). 1923 Ringling Blvd. 955-9179; horsefeathersgrill.com.
The Hub Baja Grill
Matt Paolino, 8 p.m. today (R) / Live music 4:30-8:30 p.m. Fri. / Ben H., 9 p.m. Fri. (R) / Andres, noon Sat. (R) / Cort Ferris, 4:30 p.m. Sat. (R, RA) / Ben H. 9 p.m. Sat. (R) / Sunday brunch with Cort Ferris, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. (R, RA) / Mac, 3 p.m. Sun. (R) / Matt G., 7 p.m. Sun. (R, RA) / Mac, 7 p.m. Mon. (R) / Cort Ferris, 7 p.m. Tues. (R, RA) / Ryan S., 7 p.m. Wed. (R). 5148 Ocean Blvd. 349-6800.
Irish Rover
Traditional Irish food, beer, entertainment. Paul Duffy Band, 7:30 p.m. today (F) / Bobby Vesey, 7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat., Wed. (F) / Jazz Juvenocracy, 9 p.m. Sun. (J) / Paul Duffy, 7:30 p.m. Tues. (F). 6518 Gateway Ave. 926-1060; irishroversarasota.com.
Kroaky’s Karaoke
Fourteen private karaoke rooms, with a selection of 17,000 songs. Food, beer, wine. 4400 S. Tamiami Trail. $5 per hour per person. Reservations: (877) 4KROAKY; kroakys.com.
LeBarge
Two-hour tropical cruises, with full bar and light food menu. BC Hathaway, 5 p.m. today (R) / Dan Crawford, 5 p.m. Fri. (I) / Sly McLeod, 5 p.m. Sat. (R) / Howlin’ Bob, 5 p.m. Sun. (R) / BC Hathaway, 5 p.m. Tues. (R) / Max McCann, 5 p.m. Wed. (R) 2 Marina Place, south of Marina Jack. 366-6116; lebargetropicalcruises.com.
Mattison’s City Grille
Downtown outdoor eatery. The Venturas, 7:30 p.m. today (J) / Eclipse, 8 p.m. Fri., 7 p.m. Wed. (R) / Live music, 8 p.m. Sat. / Andres Colin, 11 a.m. Sun. (L) / Debbie Keeton Jazz Group, 7 p.m. Sun. (J) / Fluid Edges, 7 p.m. Mon. (R) / Jennifer Leigh and Her New Digs, 7 p.m. Tues. (R). 1 N. Lemon Ave. 330-0440; mattisons.com.
Mattison’s Forty-One
Jennifer Leigh and Her New Digs, 7 p.m. Fri. (R) / Melanie Massell & Hot Item, 8-11 p.m. Sat. (J) / Joe Thayer, 7-10 p.m. Sun.-Tues. (J) / Debbie Keeton & Gary Deary, 7-10 p.m. Wed. (J) 7275 S. Tamiami Trail. 921-3400; mattisons.com.
The Monkey Room Patio at The Colony
Casual outdoor bar with Gulf views. Debbie and Gary, 9 p.m. Fri.-Sat. (J) / Scotty McFarland, 9 p.m. Sun.-Mon. (J) / Mark Cravens, 9 p.m. Tues. (J). 1620 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key. 383-5558; colonybeachresort.com.
Old Packinghouse Café
Hamburgers, pasta, country-fried food. Wire Beaters, 7 p.m. today (R) / The Alternators, 7 p.m. Fri. (B) / King Louie, 7 p.m. Sat. (B) / Open mike with Rick Alvis, 7 p.m. Mon. (O) / Snowbirds, 7 p.m. Mon. (R) / Callie Chappel, 7 p.m. Wed. (R). 987 S. Packinghouse Road. 371-9358; oldpackinghouse.net.
O’Leary’s Tiki Bar and Grill
Tiki bar and grill on the bay. Boaters welcome. Bethere Brothers, 5 p.m. Sat. (F). 5 Bayfront Drive at U.S. 41. 953-7505.
Pastimes Pub
Full liquor bar. Acoustic Open Mike, 10 p.m. today (O) / Holes & Hearts, Bad Sara, Anthems for Artie, 10 p.m. Fri. (R) / Sons of Hippies, Greenhouse Effect, Totem Pole, 9 p.m. Sat. (R) / Open mike, 9 p.m. Sun. (O) / Blak&Wite Magazine last issue release party with Jesus Chrysler Supercar, Harper Sublette, Completely From Mountains, more, 8 p.m. Tues. (R). 6540 Superior Ave. 924-7782; myspace.com/pastimespub.
Shamrock Pub
More than 70 brews, wine, darts, Internet jukebox, TV, patio. Todd Edmonds Acoustic, 9 p.m. today (R) / Various artists, 9 p.m. Fri. (R) / DJ Shamrockable, 9 p.m. Sat. (DJ) / DJs Galati & Kamal, 9 p.m. Tues. (DJ). 2257 Ringling Blvd. 952-1730. myspace.com/theshamrocksarasota.
Siesta Key Oyster Bar
Full bar, food, acoustic music. Acoustic Pete Blues Trio, 7 p.m. today (B) / James Albritton, 8 p.m. Fri. (F, B) / Dana and Thorson, 1 p.m. Sat. (R, B) / Matt Gerhardt, 8 p.m. Sat. (F) / Chris Otto, 7 p.m. Sun. (F) / Ryan Stroh, 7 p.m. Mon. (R) / Open Mic with Noel Harris, 7 p.m. Tues. (O) / Kettle of Fish’s 300th show at SKOB, 7 p.m. Wed. (R). 5238 Ocean Blvd. 346-5443.
Steel Can Alley
The Supervillains, Victims of Circumstance, 3rd Degree Burns, 8 p.m. Sat. (R, RA). $10. 2645 Mall Drive. 921-6480; myspace.com/theawm.
OSPREY
Cafe 1660 at the Osprey Inn
Restaurant and bar with full menu. Karaoke with Bruce Shelly, 7 p.m. today, 8 p.m. Sat. (O). 1660 S. Tamiami Trail. 966-1693; ospreyinn.net.
VENICE/ENGLEWOOD
Big’Z Tavern
70s night, today / Wizards/Witches, Fri. / Hawaii Nite, Sat. / Bingo, 7 p.m. Sun. / Karaoke, 7 p.m. Mon. (O) / Industry Night, Tues. / Ladies Nite, 7 p.m. Wed. 127 Tampa Ave. E., Venice. 724-2449; bigztavern.com.
Braemar British Pub
Outdoor tiki bar, with casual dining, and indoor upscale restaurant. Kenny Rose, 6-10 p.m. today (I, R) / The Finger Mullets, 6-10 p.m. Wed. (C). 2440 S. McCall Road, Englewood. 475-2221; tinyurl.com/6eav6a.
Club 455
Karaoke, 7-11 p.m. today, Tues.-Wed. / Latin Night with DJ Jorge Rodriguez, 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Fri. (L). 455 U.S. 41 Bypass N. 412-0455.
The Crow’s Nest
Max McCann, 9 p.m. Fri. (R) / RPM, 9 p.m. Sat. (R). 1968 Tarpon Center Drive, Venice. 484-9551.
Honoluana Island Grill
Restaurant-bar on Venice Island. Badd JuJu Band, 7:30 p.m. Fri. (R) / The Jimi Banks Show, 6 p.m. Tues. (I). 222 Airport Ave. E., Venice. 483-3553; honoluana.com.
Sharky’s on the Pier
Tony Fiorentino, 8 p.m. Fri. (R) / Max McCann, 8 p.m. Sat. (R) / High Tide, 6 p.m. Sun. (R). 1600 Harbor Drive S., Venice. 488-1456; sharkysonthepier.com.
Saltwater Café
DooWop Denny Rockin Oldies Show, 7-10 p.m. Sat. (R) 1071 N. Tamiami Trail (at Laurel Road), Nokomis. 488-3775.
T.J. Carney’s Pub & Grill
Irish Reuben, steaks to grouper, dance music for 40s and up. Dixie Spirit Jazz Band, 6:30 p.m. today (R). 231 W. Venice Ave., Venice. 480-9244.
MANATEE
Ace’s
Full sports bar, snacks, rock music for 30 and older crowd. Jilly and the Jammers, 5 p.m. Fri. (B) / Blues Jam Anniversary Party with The Highwaymen, The Whodoos, Raiford Starke, 8 p.m. Fri. (B) / Hollowbody Hellraisers, Ghostwitch, Whiskey Romance, 9:30 p.m. Sat. (R, C) $5 / Blind Buddy Moody, 4 p.m. Sun. (B) / Doug Deming Band and Friends, 7:30 p.m. Sun. $8 advance, $12 door (B) / T-Model Ford with Gravel Road, Ben Prestage, 8 p.m. Tues. (B) / Blues Jam with The Highwaymen, 8 p.m. Wed. (B). 4343 Palma Sola Blvd., Bradenton. 795-3886; 4aceslounge.com.
Barnie’s Coffee & Wine Bar
Bill Vinhage, 7 p.m. Sat. (F, R). 2127 Cortez Road W., Bradenton. 756-1405.
Clancy’s Irish Pub & Grill
Dr. Dave Band, 9 p.m. Sat. (R). 6218 Cortez Road, Bradenton. 794-2489.
The Distillery Tavern
Old-style tavern with games, pool tables, rock/blues music. Ladies Night with Three Peace Band, 10 p.m. today. (R) / Big Daddy, 10 p.m. Fri. (B) / Local Celebrity, 10 p.m. Sat. (I) / Absinthe Wednesday with Offshore Riot, 10 p.m. Wed. (RA). 108 44th Ave. E., Bradenton. 739-7845; myspace.com/distillerybradenton.
Lake Osprey Village Cabaret
First annual Xmas Party with the Ranch Dawgs, Dylan Jones, 7 p.m. Sat. (R) $20; $15 with unwrapped toy. Benefit for All Children’s Hospital. 6259 Lake Osprey Village Drive, Lakewood Ranch. 907-9252; 586-9015.
Peggy’s Corral
Dr. Dave Band, noon Sun. (R). 4511 U.S. 41 N., Palmetto. 729-5442.
Saints and Sinners Restaurant
Jazz Night with Jimmy G and Friends, 7 p.m. Mon. (J) / Open Mic Night with Bill Vinhage, 7 p.m. Tues. 908 Riverside Drive, Palmetto. 729-5100; saintsandsinnersriverfront.com.
Tequila Beach Sport Grille
Karaoke with Kellie, 10 p.m. Fri. / Trivia Night, 8 p.m. Tues. 7423 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton. 794-1400; myspace.com/tequilabeachsportgrille.
Woody’s River Roo
Outdoor riverfront pub; food, music. Taylor & Taylor, 5 p.m. today (R) / Tom & Bob, 4 p.m. Fri. (R) / Jack Tamberine, 7 p.m. Fri. (C) / Straight Up, 2 p.m. Sat. (R) / Karaoke and house music, 7 p.m. Sat. / Kool Breeze, 2 p.m. Sun. (RA, B) / Karaoke, 5 p.m. Tues. / Jerry Witte, 6 p.m. Wed. (R). 5717 18th St. E., Ellenton. 722-2391; woodysriverroo.com.
Zio’s Pizzeria & Martini Bar
Billy Rice Band, 8 p.m. today (R) / Shotgun Orchestra, 9 p.m. Fri. (R) / AJ & the Automatics, 7 p.m. Sat. (RB) / Sophisticated Jazz, 5:30 p.m. Mon. (J) / Carl’s Piano Bar, 8 p.m. Tues.-Wed. (R). 533 14th St. W., Bradenton. 708-9001; ziosflausa.com.
LAKEWOOD RANCH
Polo Grill and Bar
Casual fine dining restaurant and bar. Jonathan Cortez, 8:30 p.m. Fri. (R, B) / Ladies Night with Janine Elise Scott, 8:30-11 p.m. Sat. (J) / Trivia Challenge, 7 p.m. Tues. 782-0899; pologrillandbar.com.
SHOWS
ACE’S
4343 Palma Sola Blvd., Bradenton. 795-3886; 4aceslounge.com.
T-Model Ford, w/Gravel Road, Ben Prestage — 8 p.m. Tues.
James & Lucky Peterson Birthday BBQ — Dec. 13
Sean Chambers — Dec. 19
Seth Walker — Dec. 20
Rockin Jake — Dec. 28
Jason Ricci & New Blood — Dec. 31
Bonerama — Jan. 3
Sean Carney, w/Twinkle — Jan. 9
Rosie Ledet — Jan. 24
Wayne “The Train” Haddock — Jan. 30
Damon Fowler Group (CD release party) — Feb. 14
CIRCUS SARASOTA
Jan. 30-Feb. 22. Adjacent to Ed Smith Stadium. 355-9335; circussarasota.org.
7 p.m. Jan. 29 dress rehearsal; 7 p.m. Jan. 30 opening night; 1 (sold out) and 7 p.m. Jan. 31; 1 p.m. Feb. 1; 7 p.m. Feb. 3; 2 and 7 p.m. Feb. 4; 7 p.m. Feb. 5; 7 p.m. Feb. 6; 2 and 7 p.m. Feb. 7; 1 and 5 p.m. Feb. 8; 7 p.m. Feb. 10; 2 and 7 p.m. Feb. 11; 7 p.m. Feb. 12; 7 p.m. Feb. 13; 2 and 7 p.m. Feb. 14; 1 and 5 p.m. Feb. 15; 1 and 5 p.m. Feb. 16; 2 and 7 p.m. Feb. 18; 7 p.m. Feb. 19; 7 p.m. Feb. 20; 2 and 7 p.m. Feb. 21; 1 and 5 p.m. Feb. 22.
GUITARSARASOTA
All 2008-09 shows at 7:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 2256 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota. $15 members, $20 nonmembers, $7.50 students. 362-2991; guitarsarasota.org.
Ana Vidovic (Croatia) — Jan. 24
David Starobin (New York) — Feb. 21
Marcin Dylla (Poland) — March 21
THE HALL
1330 U.S. 301 N., Palmetto. 875-3760; thehallinpalmetto.com.
Obie Trice (w/Infinite Skillz, Splita, Marceleno, DJ Tommygun) — Dec. 12 (879-5415; TheMindSyndicate.com)
Trick Daddy — Dec. 26 (875-3760)
JAZZ CLUB
OF SARASOTA
The most active jazz club in the United States, with more than 80 concerts and lectures each year. 366-1552; jazzclubsarasota.com.
Jazz at Two (Sara Egglefield) — 2 p.m. Fri. (Bayfront Community Center, 803 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota)
Fall Concert (The Flip Side) — 7:30 p.m. Sat. (Holley Hall, 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota)
Venice Jazz at Two (Bud Leeds with Friends) — 2 p.m. Sun. (Crossroads Restaurant, 385 U.S. 4l Bypass & Albee Farm Road)
Jazz Meets the Arts (“Little Women,” with entertainment by Jane Hoffman) — 6:30 p.m. Wed. (Players Theatre, 838 N. Tamiami Trail)
Jazz at Two (Betty Comora) — Dec. 12 (Bayfront Community Center, 803 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota)
Jazz at Two Sunday (The Kitt & Mike Moran Trio) — Dec. 14 (The Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota)
Jazz at Two (Doug Cameron) — Dec. 19 (Bayfront Community Center, 803 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota)
Jazz at Two Sunday — Dec. 21 (The Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota)
MANATEE COUNTY FAIR
Jan. 15-25. 1402 14th Ave. W., Palmetto. 722-8951; manateecountyfair.com. Full lineup to be announced.
Emerson Drive, T. Graham Brown, etc.
PASTIMES PUB
6540 Superior Ave., Sarasota. 924-7782; myspace.com/pastimespub)
Devon Allman’s Honeytribe (w/Acoustic Sunshine, featuring Berry Oakley Jr., and Kettle of Fish) — Dec. 12
Scott H. Biram (w/Whiskey Romance) — Dec. 13
The Mahones — Dec. 16
SARASOTA FOLK CLUB
Sailing Squadron concert series. 1717 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota. Open mike, 7:15 p.m. Featured concert, 8:30 p.m. Free, but $5 or more donation suggested. 377-9256; sarafolk.org.
Holiday of Song — Dec. 15
Sarasota Folk Festival — March 14-15 (at Oscar Scherer State Park)
VAN WEZEL
777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. (800) 826-9303; vanwezel.org.
The Irish Tenors Holiday Spectacular — Dec. 15
Sweet Baby James: A Tribute to James Taylor — Jan. 7
Cornell Gunter’s Coasters, The Platters & The Marvelettes — Jan. 18
David Copperfield — Jan. 22-23
Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra/Wynton Marsalis — Jan. 27
Engelbert Humperdinck — Feb. 6
The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra — Feb. 11
Kenny Rogers — Feb. 12
Bobby Vinton — Feb. 13
Ben Vereen — Feb. 14
Natalie Cole — Feb. 15
Johnny Mathis — Feb. 16
The Neville Brothers/Dr. John & The Lower 9-11 — Feb. 28
OTHER LOCAL SHOWS
Red Kilby (w/Shirley Alberts) — Jan. 3 (Englewood Elks Lodge No. 2378, 401 N. Indiana Ave., Englewood; 473-4022)
Willie and Lobo — Jan. 26 (Players Theatre, 838 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 365-2494; theplayers.org)
BARBARA B. MANN
8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers. (800) 440-7469; bbmannpah.com.
Aaron Lewis of Staind — Jan. 5
Richard Nader’s Doo Wop and Rock & Roll Tour IV (The Drifters featuring Charlie Thomas, Kenny Vance & The Planotones, Gene Chandler, Joey Dee and The Starlights) — Jan. 8
Rain: A Tribute to The Beatles — Jan. 13-18
David Copperfield — Jan. 20
DALLAS BULL
3322 U.S. 301 N., Tampa. (813) 987-2855; dallasbull.com.
Jamey Johnson — Dec. 19
FLORIDA STATE FAIR
Feb. 5-16. Entertainment lineup will be announced in December. 4800 U.S. 301 N., Tampa. (800) 345-3247; floridastatefair.com.
FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FEST
Feb. 26-March 8. 2202 W. Reynolds St., Plant City. (813) 752-9194; flstrawberryfestival.com.
George Jones (Feb. 26); Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers (Feb. 26); Nitty Gritty Dirt Band (Feb. 27); Third Day (Feb. 28); Rodney Atkins (March 1); Jim Ed Brown/Helen Cornelius (March 2); Randy Travis (March 2); Marty Stuart/Connie Smith (March 3); Brenda Lee (March 4); Ray Stevens (March 4); Mel Tillis (March 5); Ronnie McDowell (March 6); Jeff Foxworthy (March 6); Kool & the Gang (March 7)
FORD AMPHITHEATRE
4802 U.S. 301 N. (Florida State Fairgrounds), Tampa. (813) 740-2446; livenation.com.
97X Next Big Thing (Avenged Sevenfold, Flogging Molly, Shinedown, Atreyu, etc.) — 10 a.m. Sun.
GERMAIN ARENA
11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero. (239) 948-7825; germainarena.com.
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus: Boom a Ring — Jan. 15-19
Bill Gaither & The Homecoming Friends — Feb. 12
The Harlem Globetrotters — Feb. 26
Smucker’s Stars on Ice — March 2
JANNUS LANDING
16 Second St. N., St. Petersburg. (727) 896-2276; jannuslandingconcerts.com.
The Misfits — 8 p.m. Fri.
Seven Mary Three (free show) — Dec. 18
Sister Hazel (New Year’s Eve Bash) — Dec. 31
Galactic (w/Trombone Shorty, The Lee Boys) — Jan. 2
Wu-Tang Clan — Jan. 17
Keller Williams — Jan. 27
Dark Star Orchestra — Jan. 29
Soilwork — Feb. 4
Yonder Mountain String Band — Feb. 14
Citizen Cope — Feb. 21
Wednesday 13 — March 5
Less Than Jake (w/The Expendables) — March 10
Katy Perry — April 28
Kreator/Exodus — May 11 (Garage Bar)
THE ORPHEUM
1902 Avenida Republica de Cuba (14th Street), Ybor City, Tampa. (813) 248-9500; statemedia.com.
The Medic Droid (w/Hyper Crush, Chronic Future) — 6 p.m. Fri.
Sparky’s Flaw — Dec. 12
Haste the Day (w/Sky Eats Airplane, Emarosa, Inhale Exhale) — Dec. 13
Manchester Orchestra (w/Dead Confederate, Kevin Devine, All Get Out) — Dec. 18
There for Tomorrow (w/Hey Monday, Biggest Lights, My Getaway) — Dec. 26
Los Campesinos! (w/Titus Andronicus) — Jan. 20
PALLADIUM THEATRE
253 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg. (727) 822-3590; mypalladium.org.
Leo Kottke — Feb. 20
Loudon Wainwright III (w/Kathleen Edwards) — Feb. 25
THE RITZ YBOR
1505 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City, Tampa; (813) 247-2555; myspace.com/theritzybor.
Of Montreal (w/The Fiery Furnaces) — 6:30 p.m. Mon.
Sevendust (w/Taproot, American Devil, Mr. Bella) — Dec. 28
RUTH ECKERD HALL
1111 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. (727) 791-7400; rutheckerdhall.com.
Jason Mraz (w/Anya Marina) — 7 p.m. today
John Tesh — 7:30 p.m. Fri.
Jars of Clay — 7:30 p.m. Sun.
Irish Rovers Christmas — 1 p.m. Tues.
Bowzer’s Holiday Ball — Dec. 13
Yes — Dec. 15
Peter White Christmas (Peter White, Rick Braun, Mindi Abair) — Dec. 17
Aaron Lewis of Staind — Jan. 6
Bryan Adams — Jan. 8
Linda Eder — Jan. 9
70s Soul Jam (w/The Stylistics, Heatwave, Harold Melvin’s Bluenotes, The Main Ingredient featuring Cuba Gooding Sr., Jimmie “JJ” Walker) — Jan. 16
Roy Clark — Jan. 18
Glenn Miller Orchestra — Jan. 19
Joshua Bell — Jan. 20
John Legend — Jan. 29
SKIPPER’S SMOKEHOUSE
910 Skipper Road, Tampa. (813) 971-0666; skipperssmokehouse.com.
James McMurtry (w/Ronny Elliott) — 8 p.m. Fri.
John Németh — 8 p.m. Tues.
The Prodigals — Dec. 13
Tab Benoit (w/Mike Zito) — Dec. 19
WMNF Presents “Rewind: The Music and Songs of 1968” — Dec. 31
Pinetop Perkins (w/Steady Rollin’ Bob Margolin Blues Band) — Jan. 9
Hamel on Trial — Jan. 16
Del Castillo (w/Chicago Afrobeat Orchestra) — 8 p.m. Sat.Jan. 17
Alejandro Escovedo (w/Ryan Bingham) — Jan. 20
James Hunter/Ryan Shaw — Jan. 22
Damon Fowler Group (CD release party) — Jan. 30
Chris McCarty — Jan. 31
Reckless Kelly — Feb. 10
Blind Boys of Alabama — Feb. 14
WMNF’s fifth annual Rockabilly Ruckus (Wanda Jackson, Rosie Flores, Rocket 88, etc.) — Feb. 21
ST. PETE TIMES FORUM
401 Channelside Drive, Tampa. (813) 301-2500; stpetetimesforum.com.
Carrie Underwood (w/Little Town) — Dec. 12
AC/DC — Dec. 21
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey: Zing Zang Zoom — Jan. 7-11
Dancing With the Stars: The Tour — Jan. 22
Céline Dion — Jan. 28
Eagles — Jan. 29
The Harlem Globetrotters — Feb. 27
Smucker’s Stars on Ice — March 1
STATE THEATRE
687 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. (727) 895-3045; statemedia.com.
Marc Broussard (w/The Alternate Routes) — 7 p.m. Fri.
ohGr — Dec. 13
Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe — Jan. 9
Funeral for a Friend (w/The Sleeping) — Jan. 14
Brett Dennen (w/Erin McCarley) — Jan. 18
TBPAC
1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa. (800) 955-1045; tbpac.org.
Lucy Kaplansky — Jan. 12
Sophie Milman — Jan. 24
Christopher Cross — Feb. 8
George Winston — Feb. 11
Gipsy Kings — Feb. 13
The Pink Floyd Experience — Feb. 15
Red Molly — Feb. 16
Three Mo’ Tenors — Feb. 19
Mandy Patinkin (w/Paul Ford on piano) — Feb. 28
TAMPA THEATRE
711 N. Franklin St., Tampa. (813) 274-8286; tampatheatre.org.
Phoebe Snow — 7:30 p.m. Wed.
David Byrne — Dec. 12
Colbie Caillat (w/Jon McLaughlin) — Dec. 13
A Rockapella Holiday — Dec. 14
Derek Trucks/Susan Tedeschi — Dec. 29
Arlo Guthrie — March 7
USF SUN DOME
4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. (813) 974-3111; gousfbulls.com.
Newsboys — April 25
COMEDY
McCURDY’S
COMEDY THEATRE
3333 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 925-3869; mccurdyscomedy.com.
Rich Guzzi — Today-Sun. (Family Night, Mon.)
Philadelphia — Wed.-Dec. 14
Julie Scoggins — Dec. 17-21
New Year’s Eve with Jeff Caldwell & Special Guests — Dec. 31
Jeff Caldwell — Jan. 1-4 (Family Night, Jan. 5)
Janet Williams — Jan. 7-11
John Valby — Feb. 3
VAN WEZEL
777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. (800) 826-9303; vanwezel.org.
NBC’s Last Comic Standing Live Tour — Jan. 6
Dame Edna — April 6-7
THE COMEDY ZONE
Visani Restaurant, 2400 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte. 629-9191; visani.net.
Ken Evans/Cal Verducci — Today-Sat.
Brian Bradley/Averall Carter — Wed.-Dec. 13
Paul Lyons/Jon D. Miller — Dec. 17-20
Johnny Millwater/Steve Lolli — Dec. 26-28
Open mic night — Dec. 30
Dale Jones/Ian Gutoskie — Dec. 31, Jan. 2-3
Diva and The Italian Guy — Jan. 6
Grandma Lee/Roger Keiss — Jan. 7-10
Mike Siscoe/Jamie Morgan — Jan. 14-17
Mark Klein — Jan. 21-24
Tony Tone/Shane McConnaghy — Jan. 28-31
Diva and The Italian Guy — Feb. 3
Just June/Josh Phillips — Feb. 4-7
Rich Guzzi — Feb. 11-14
James Sibley/Ray Pennetti — Feb. 18-21
Open mic night — Feb. 24
Al Romas — Feb. 25-28
MAHAFFEY THEATER
400 First St. S., St. Petersburg. (727) 892-5798; mahaffeytheater.com.
Jerry Seinfeld — Feb. 26-27 (three shows)
BARBARA B. MANN
8099 College Parkway, Fort Myers. (800) 440-7469; bbmannpah.com.
NBC’s Last Comic Standing Live Tour — Jan. 3
RUTH ECKERD HALL
1111 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. (727) 791-7400; rutheckerdhall.com.
NBC’s Last Comic Standing Live Tour — Dec. 29
Carol Burnett — Jan. 15
Jerry Lewis — Feb. 21
Artie Lange — March 20
Rodney Carrington — March 27
Dame Edna — March 30-31
Don Rickles/Regis Philbin — April 23
ST. PETE TIMES FORUM
401 Channelside Drive, Tampa. (813) 287-8844 or (727) 898-2100; stpetetimesforum.com.
Dane Cook — Jan. 31
TBPAC
1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa. (800) 955-1045; tbpac.com.
Brian Regan — Jan. 11
Arnez J. & Friends Comedy Show — Jan. 16
Lily Tomlin — Feb. 14
George Lopez — March 13
Louis C.K. HILARIOUS — March 19
Jeff Dunham — March 22
Paula Poundstone — March 28
TAMPA IMPROV
1600 E. Eighth Ave., Centro Ybor, Tampa. (813) 864-4000; improvtampa.com.
Michael Mack — Today-Sun.
Rich Guzzi — Dec. 9
A Twisted Christmas with Pretty Paul Parsons — Dec. 10
Guy Torry — Dec. 11-14
Brian Bradley — Dec. 17-21
Ha Humbug with Mike McCarthy — Dec. 23
Dean Edwards — Dec. 26-28
John Pinette — Dec. 31, Jan. 2-4
Bill Burr — Jan. 8-10
Adele Givens — Jan. 16-18
ATTRACTIONS
SARASOTA
Big Cat Habitat & Gulf Coast Sanctuary
A safe haven for big cats, bears and other animals in need. Training demonstrations Saturdays and Sundays, rain or shine. Gates open at 12:30 p.m., demonstrations start at 1:30 p.m. $12; $10 for seniors 65 and older; $5 for children 12 and under. 7101 Palmer Blvd., Sarasota. 371-6377; BigCatHabitat.org.
The Children’s Garden
Whimsical garden with sculptures, mazes, pirate ship, hidden treasures, dress-up room, acting stage, etc. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. Children under 3 free; $5 ages 3-12; $10 ages 13-adults. 1670 10th Way. 330-1711; sarasotachildrensgarden.com.
Crowley Museum & Nature Center
Nature trails and a boardwalk offer a close-up view of five natural Florida habitats in this 185-acre preserve. Self-guided walks 10 a.m.-4 p.m. today-Sun. $7; $3 ages 5-12; free for under age 5 and members. 16405 Myakka Road, 13 miles east of I-75 and Fruitville Road. 322-1000; crowleymuseumnaturectr.org.
Historic Spanish Point
Offers guided and self-guided tours of a 30-acre archaeological, historical and environmental museum located on Little Sarasota Bay. Indian mounds, pioneer buildings and the gardens of Mrs. Potter Palmer with picnic facilities, nature trails and an exhibit gallery. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. $9; $8 seniors 65 and older and Florida residents; $3 ages 6-12; under 6 free. 500 N. Tamiami Trail, Osprey (visitors center at 337 N. Tamiami Trail). 966-5214; historicspanishpoint.org.
Mote Aquarium
Sharks, manatees, sea turtles, sea horses, jellyfish and more. Two touch exhibits allow children to handle sea creatures and to pet sting rays. “Santa Jaws.” Mote mascot Gilly the Shark is dressed for the holidays and ready to take pictures with visitors. Noon–2 p.m. Sat.; also Dec. 13, 20. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Mote Marine Laboratory, west end of Ken Thompson Park (City Island), Sarasota. $17 adults (12 and up); $12 youth ages 4-12; under 4 and Mote members free. 388-4441; mote.org.
Myakka River State Park
Bird walks, picnic areas, historic cabins, camping areas, fishing holes and more take visitors back in time to Old Florida. Bird naturalists set up scopes on the “Birdwalk” and offer guidance from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. weekdays through mid-April. / “Moon Over Myakka Owl Prowl.” Join Park Ranger Lisa Rhodin for a discussion of owls, then search for wild owls in the park. Meet at the Log Pavilion at 6:30 p.m. Wed.; Jan. 7; Feb. 11; March 11. $25; $20 for Friends members. Reserve at 924-0273 or tlclisafl@verizon.net. / “Moon Over Myakka” bike rides. Leisurely 10-mile round-trip evening rides. Helmets recommended; lights required. Meet at ranger’s station at 6:30 p.m.; ride at 7 p.m. Dec. 12; Jan. 8; Feb. 8; March 8. $6; $5 for Friends members. Reserve at 373-7839. / Open 8 a.m. to sunset daily. Admission is $5 per vehicle for two to eight people. 13208 S.R. 72 (nine miles east of I-75). 361-6511; myakkariver.org.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Acres of gardens and nature trails with animals make this tropical park a perfect setting for leisurely strolls and great photo taking. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. $14 adults; $13 seniors 62 and older; $10 ages 3-12, under 3 free. 3701 Bay Shore Road. 355-5305; sarasotajunglegardens.com.
Selby Botanical Gardens
Extensive indoor and outdoor gardens specializing in orchids, bromeliads, ferns and other exotic flora of the tropics. Community classes available in art, horticulture, yoga, photography, more; call or visit Web site for schedule. Noon Lecture: “Update on Gesneriad Research at Selby Gardens,” Noon-1 p.m. today. Free; bring a lunch. / “Lights in Bloom,” 6–9 p.m. Dec. 11-14, 18-21, 26-28. / Little Sprout’s Club preschool program: “Ornaments” 10:30-11:30 a.m. Dec. 16. / Sixth annual Selby Watercolor Classes Exhibit in the Historic Selby House, through Jan. 28. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. $17; $6 ages 6 to 11; under 6 and members free. 811 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota. 366-5731, Ext. 236; selby.org.
MANATEE
Around the Bend Nature Tours
Interpretive nature walks and field trips focusing on the culture and heritage of Manatee County. $45 per person; call for group rates. 1815 Palma Sola Blvd., Bradenton. 794-8773; aroundbend.com.
Gamble Mansion Plantation
State historical site and Confederate memorial. Antebellum plantation home is the oldest building on Florida’s west coast. Open 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. today-Mon. Park open until sundown. Guided tours of mansion at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. and hourly 1-4 p.m. $5; $3 ages 6 to 12. 3708 Patten Ave. (off U.S. 301), Ellenton, west of I-75. 723-4536; floridastateparks.org/gambleplantation.
Manatee Village Historical Park
Explore what life was like for the early pioneers of Manatee County with boat-making, turpentine production and blacksmithing. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 1:30-4:30 p.m. Sun. Free. 1404 Manatee Ave. E., Bradenton. 749-7165.
Palmetto Historical Park
A one-room schoolhouse, agricultural exhibits, Palmetto’s first post office and more provide a glimpse of what life was like in the early 1900s. Open 10 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. Tues.-Fri. and the first and third Saturdays of the month. Guided tours available. Free. 515 10th Ave. W., Palmetto. 723-4991.
TAMPA BAY
Busch Gardens Africa
Amusement park and zoo spanning 300 acres, including Jungala. Also features water rides, roller coasters, a marketplace and live entertainment. Hours vary. Florida residents: $67.95; $57.95 ages 3 to 9. 3000 E. Busch Blvd. (S.R. 580), Tampa, 2 miles west of I-75 (Exit 54). (888) 800-5447; buschgardens.com.
Children’s Museum of Tampa
Kid City (including a bank, a restaurant, a fire station and more) features hands-on learning exhibits for children of all ages. Open 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m Fri.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. $5 adults; members and under 1 free. 7550 North Boulevard, Tampa. (813) 935-8441; flachildrensmuseum.com.
Cypress Gardens
Garden and water park includes Splash Island, Hurricane wooden roller-coaster, Citrus Line Railroad and topiary trail. Opens at 10 a.m. daily; closing varies. $39.95 (10 to 59); $34.95 seniors 60 and older and ages 3 to 9, ages 2 and under free. 6000 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven. (863) 324-2111; cypressgardens.com.
Dinosaur World
Old Florida attraction features more than 150 life-sized replicas of prehistoric creatures, picnic areas and a fossil dig. Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. $12.75; $9.75 ages 3-12; $10.75 ages 60 and older. I-4, Exit 17, Plant City. (813) 717-9865; dinoworld.net.
Florida Aquarium
Three-story, glass-domed aquarium features live exhibits of Florida’s ecosystem and aquatic habitats. Children’s water park located outdoors. Open 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. $17.95; $14.95 ages 60 and older; $12.95 ages 3-12; 2 and under free. Eco-Tours (weather permitting): $19.95; $18.95 ages 60 and older; $14.95 under 12. 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa. (813) 273-4000; flaquarium.org.
Lowry Park Zoo
Komodo dragons, rhinos, giraffes, elephants and hippos are a few of the animals on display. Wild Wonderland, 6-9 p.m. Fri.-Sat.; also Dec. 11-14, 17-23, 26-30. More than a million twinkling lights illuminate the zoo. Live reindeer, Frosty’s Foam Factory, visits with Santa, carriage rides and free zoo rides. $13; $11 for ages 3-11. / Presents for Primates, 1 p.m. Dec. 19. Watch primates open their gifts. / Noon Year’s Eve, 9:30-noon Dec. 31. Can’t stay up all night? Count down to noon instead with Radio Disney AM 1380. Regular hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week except Christmas Day. Regular admission is $18.95; $17.95 ages 60 and older; $14.50 ages 3 to 11, children 2 and under free. River Odyssey Ecotour, $14; $13 ages 60 and older; $10 ages 3 to 11, children 2 and under free. Free parking. 1101 W. Sligh Ave. (813) 935-8552; lowryparkzoo.com.
Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI)
Hands-on activities and interactive exhibits explore how things work in the world around us. IMAX theater shows films on a massive screen. “Amazing You,” a state-of-the-art, informative, educational, and interactive 13,000-square-foot exhibition. Permanent exhibit. “The Science of the Circus” with clowns from Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, noon-2 p.m. Sat. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat.-Sun. $20.95 ages 13-59; $18.95 ages 60 and older; $16.95 ages 2-12; under 2 free. Tickets for IMAX Dome Theatre, $7.95, $6.95 and $5.95. 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. (813) 987-6000; mosi.org.
Science Center of Pinellas
Hands-on marine tank, wetland exhibit, a 16th-century American Indian village, planetarium, native species and more. Ongoing exhibits: “The Animal Room,” home to small mammals, birds and reptiles. / “African American Scientists & Inventors” highlights black American scientific achievers from slavery through the present. Planetarium shows, Fridays at 3 p.m. Open 1-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri. $5. 7701 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg. (727) 384-0027; sciencecenterofpinellas.com.
Sunken Gardens
St. Petersburg’s “oldest living museum” features a 100-year-old botanical garden, horticultural programs and more. Open 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; noon-4:30 p.m. Sun. $8; $6 ages 55 and older; $4 ages 2-11. 1825 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg. (727) 551-3100; stpete.org/sunken.
Weeki Wachee Springs
Old Florida attraction with live mermaid shows, animal shows, boat rides, water park and more. Open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. today-Sun. $24.95 adults; $16.95 ages 3 to 10; 2 and under free. $3 parking. 6131 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee. (352) 596-2062; weekiwachee.com.
ORLANDO
Aquatica
59-acre water park across from SeaWorld. Hours vary. Florida residents: $41.95; $35.95 ages 3 to 9; children 2 and under free. $10 parking cars, $12 RVs. 5800 Water Play Way, Orlando. (888) 800-5447; aquaticabyseaworld.com.
SeaWorld Orlando
Theme park provides encounters with Shamu the killer whale, dolphins, stingrays, penguins, sharks and more. Open 9 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. $69.95; $59.95 ages 3-9. (Discounts available for Florida residents.) 7007 SeaWorld Drive, Orlando (off I-4). (407) 351-3600; seaworld.com.
Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure
Theme park based on movies with roller coasters, interactive rides and more. Spider-Man and his comic-book pals are in Islands of Adventure. Park opens 9 a.m. daily; closing times vary. $72.40 per park; $60.69 ages 3-9. (Online discounts available for Florida residents.) 1000 Universal Studios Plaza, Orlando (off I-4). (407) 363-8000; universalorlando.com.
Walt Disney World
Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, Disney-MGM Studios and more make Disney World one of the most popular attractions worldwide. Opens at 9 a.m. daily; closing times vary. $71 per park; $60 ages 3-9. (Discounts available for Florida residents.) Lake Buena Vista, accessible from U.S. 192 and several exits off I-4, south of Orlando. (407) 824-2222; disneyworld.disney.go.com.
Wet ’n Wild
Miles of water rides. Hours vary. $41.95; $35.95 ages 3-9; $32.95 seniors 60 and older; children under 3 free. Florida residents, $29.95 single-day ticket. 6200 International Drive, Orlando (off I-4). (407) 351-1800; wetnwildorlando.com.
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Editor’s note: Some museums may be closed on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Call before going.
remove until fall or new press release arrives
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OUT FOR NOW Peace River Nature and Riverboat Tours
Two-hour narrated eco-tour of the Peace River on a 44-passenger vessel covers the history, wildlife and ecological qualities. Wilderness cruise is $20.95 ($10.95 for under age 10). Cruise with lunch is $24.95 ($15.95 for under age 10). Boat hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Departure at 1 p.m. from old DeSoto Marina at Nav-a-Gator, 9700 S.W. Riverview Circle, Lake Suzy. (800) 308-7506.
Myakka Wildlife Tours
“The Gator Gal” airboat pr