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Tag: APP Things to Do

  • Visit rescued animals at Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge in Orlando

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    ORLANDO, Fla. — It’s a place where the cute, the hungry, the mysterious, and smart often end up because their lives are in jeopardy. 

    “We’ve been receiving squirrels, at least ten each day, since last month,” animal technician Frida Acavedo-Sanchez said.

    Other animals attacked many of the squirrels brought to the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge.

    “A lot of them are either cat attacks or dog attacks. So, pets that are not, like, leashed or kept inside,” Acavedo-Sanchez said.

    What You Need To Know

    • Since 1989, the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge has rescued injured wildlife throughout Central Florida

    • An average of 3,000 to 4,000 annually — or 10 animals per day — are dropped off at the Orlando facility

    • The nonprofit rescues and rehabilitates a variety of animals, hoping to return them to the wild

    • The faculty is open to the public (by reservation) where guests can walk through and see many of their animal ambassadors

    Every day, one after another, people drop off injured animals at the front desk of the facility needing rehabilitation. 

    “But a lot of times they come in, they have injuries. And so, we have to assess the injuries that they have,” refuge executive director Debbie Helsel said.

    For over 25 years, Helsel has been treating injured wildlife. 

    It’s non-stop examining, moving creatures around the grounds, hand-feeding animals and making room for new patients. She said there is one reason animal injuries are not going away soon.

    “We’re doing so many things to the environment that it’s making it much more difficult for them to survive,” Helsel explained.

    Some 3,000 to 4,000 injured creatures end up at the refuge each year, which measures out to around 10 per day. Often, they don’t have enough cages and space for everyone.

    By appointment, guests can visit the facility and get to meet some of the ambassador animals.

    Those animals can’t return to the wild, and the Orlando facility gives them a permanent home.

    That includes owls, foxes, bobcats and tortoises. 

    Helsel hopes guests learn something about wildlife when they visit.

    “The goal really is for them to be in the wild where they’re supposed to be, not in a habitat where they have to spend the rest of their life,” she said.

    The nonprofit relies on donations.

    Self-guided tours and guided tours are available for $10 per adult, and children under 3 are free.

    Visit the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge for details.

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    Randy Rauch

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  • Lexington Barbecue Festival returns

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    LEXINGTON,N.C. — Lexington’s 41st Barbecue Festival gets underway Saturday. 

    The event attracts close to 200,000 people who come out every year to sample some of the sweetest, spiciest and most savory barbecue the region has to offer. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The Lexington Barbecue Festival features Lexington-style barbecue prepared by local restaurants, a vendor fair, live performances and games

    • Close to 200,000 people from across the country attend the annual event

    • Organizers say it is the community’s largest economic driver

    Lexington Tourism Authority executive director Morgan Brinkle said barbecue is built into the city’s traditions.

    “It is said that that’s how the judge was back in the late 1800s, early 1900s knew to break for lunch, just because he could smell the smoke coming from the barbecue pits back here,” she said while walking “Barbecue Alley.”

    Now, each year the city celebrates at the Lexington Barbecue Festival. The day has become the community’s largest event of the year.

    “Most of the people that do come to our barbecue festival come from out of town, and we get people from all over the United States. This is a huge economic driver for the city. We have historically had as many as 200,000 people come out to this festival,” Brinkle said.

    Brinkle said the town gets into in prep mode ahead of the event. 

    “We work all year long promoting the barbecue festival. As soon as one ends, we start on the next one to promote it,” she said. “The city, the sponsors, the festival managers, everyone who has anything to do with the festival is prepping, all the barbecue restaurants, of course.”

    The Barbecue Center has provided food for all 41 years of the festival and is one of the event’s longest-running participating restaurants. 

    Owner Cecil Conrad said the event helps bring in customers and visitors to the city all year long.

    “It’s over $10 million for a single day in Lexington. It’s great for us, great for our community. And it certainly helps us with our business, and it helps other people in town as well,” Conrad said.

    The festival is in Uptown Lexington.

    Exhibits start at 8:30 a.m. Saturday with barbecue tents opening at 10 a.m.

    Free parking and shuttles will operate from Childress Vineyards and Walmart Supercenter.

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    Sasha Strong

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  • Your weekend events for Oct. 18-19

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    There’s always plenty to do in Ohio over the weekend, but Spectrum News 1 gathered some of the highlights around each major metropolitan area across the state.

    Now that spooky season has arrived, also be sure to check out our 2025 guide to Ohio’s haunted houses here.

    Here’s some of this weekend’s events:

    Cleveland

    Fall Fest at the Van Aken District

    • When and where: 12 to 5 p.m. Oct. 18 at 3401 Tuttle Road in Shaker Heights
    • Info: A family-friendly fall festival complete with live music, food and drink, merchants and more

    Pumpkins & Piranhas

    • When and where: 6 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 17 and 18 (sensory friendly night on Oct. 19) at the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, located at 2000 Sycamore St.
    • Cost: $15 general admission for adults and children 2 and older, $5 for child passholders and free for adult passholders and kids younger than 2
    • Info: Experience the aquarium you know but after hours and with a Halloween twist, as attendees are welcome to wear costumes and treat bags will be distributed

    Columbus

    Circleville Pumpkin Show

    • When and where: Oct. 15-18 at 159 E Franklin St in Circleville, Ohio
    • Info: This event, which technically started on Tuesday, includes parades, live entertainment

    7th Annual Witch/Warlock Paddle

    • When and where: 9:45 a.m. Oct. 18 at Bicentennial Park Scioto Mile, located at 233 Civic Center Drive in Columbus
    • Info: This event invited anyone to bring their witches hat and a paddle board for a group launch at 10 a.m.

    Cincinnati

    2025 Jack-O-Lantern Hike

    • When and where: 7 to 9 p.m. Oct. 18 at the Caldwell Nature Preserve & Center, located at 430 W North Bend Road in Cincinnati 
    • Cost: $5 per person for ages 3 and older
    • Info: Enjoy a nightime hike on a trail lit by Jack-o-lanterns at the nature preserve

    The Hope 5k

    • When and where: 10 a.m. to noon on Oct 18 on the Ohio River at 50 Walnut St. in nearby Lawrenceburg, Indiana
    • Cost: $35
    • Info: Enjoy a fall 5k while helping raise money for under-resourced families at this race

    Dayton

    Boo Bash Trail

    • When and where: 9 to 11 a.m. Oct. 18 at E.J. Nutter Park, located at 865 Factory Road in Beavercreek, Ohio
    • Cost: Free
    • Info: Dress up for a family-friendly hike that also includes various characters and “Halloween goodies”

    Scenic 5K To Combat Human Trafficking

    • When and where: 8 to 11 a.m. Oct. 18 at 1385 Harshman Road in Dayton
    • Cost: Basic 5k registration is $50; higher price points are available
    • Info: This 5k is also a fundraising event for the Sidewalk Soldiers program and raises awareness on local human trafficking

    Toledo

    2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Toledo, OH

    • When and where: 9 a.m. Oct. 18 at Glass City Metropark, located at 1505 Front St. in Toledo
    • Cost: No fee, but they highly encourage fundraising
    • Info: Walk for a cause, with funds benefitting the Alzheimer’s Association nonprofit

    Ultimate Collectible Expo

    • When and where: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 18 at the Glass City Convention Center, located at 401 Jefferson Ave. in Toledo 
    • Cost: $5 per person at the door
    • Info: Collectors of all kinds can find something of interest here, whether it’s sports cards, toys or more

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Alive or preserved, flowers reign at Selby Gardens

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    SARASOTA, Fla. — A love of nature and a longing for a deeper connection — that’s why artist Rebecca Louise Law created the immersive installation at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens in Sarasota.

    What You Need To Know

    • Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ 2025 Orchid Show features artist Rebecca Louise Law
    • Law said she wants people to able to connect with nature and help look after it
    • The display is open through Dec. 7


    “I felt like my experience of nature was very experiential, it was sensual, spiritual. It felt like you were in something you were connected to,” said Law.

    So she started experimenting “painting the air.” It’s part of the Gardens’ 2025 Orchid Show.

    Check out the delicate live flowers in the display observatory and then the delicate, preserved flowers in their Museum of Botany and the Arts.

    “So, for me, I see each one of these clusters as a line of paint. It’s very linear, this installation,” said Law.

    Law connects preserved flowers with copper wire to create garlands. They are 19 feet long in the museum’s foyer.

    “So, most of the flowers now are connected wherever I make my art. So, like Marie Selby, we’ve collected about 2,500 specimens,” said Law.

    They are now part of the installation to be added to Law’s next show, preserving the link between humans and the wider world.

    “I want people to connect to nature and observe what we have here today on this earth,” said Law. “And help look after it.”

    This connection and caring for nature — it’s Selby Gardens’ mission as well.

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • Durham is alive with ‘The Sound of Music’

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    “The Sound of Music” has been a favorite for audiences around the world, both on screen and on stage, for more than 60 years. Now, a piece of Broadway history has made its way to Durham.

    The Broadway musical that first debuted in 1959 and was later made into the iconic film starring Julie Andrews in 1965 is currently on tour and will be wrapping up its stop at the Durham Performing Arts Center this weekend.

    Two of the shows stars, Cayleigh Capaldi, who plays Maria Rainer, and Kevin Earley, who plays Captain Georg Von Trapp, stop by to share behind-the-scenes insights from the show and talk about why it has continued to captivate audiences for more than six decades. Check out the video for Spectrum News 1’s conversation with Capaldi and Earley.

    The show will also be making stops in Charlotte and Greensboro in the coming months. For information on the show’s schedule and tickets, click here.

    Kevin Earley (Captain Georg von Trapp) and Cayleigh Capaldi (Maria Rainer) in “The Sound of Music.” Photo by Jeremy Daniel.

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    Justin Pryor

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  • Pumpkin patches around the Tampa Bay area

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    TAMPA, Fla. — With fall in full swing, many pumpkin patches have opened back up in the Tampa Bay area for the season. Whether you are looking to pick the perfect pumpkin, meet farm animals or go on a hayride, there are plenty of locations to visit that offer a wide range of themed activities.

    View a Google Maps listing of Tampa Bay area pumpkin patch locations and details below:
    (To submit a pumpkin patch location not on the map, please use our submission form at the bottom of the page)


     

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Mini-figure making and monster dance parties await at Legoland’s Brick-or-Treat

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    WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Have you ever wanted to make a tiny version of yourself—but spooky?

    What You Need To Know

    • On The Town visits Legoland Florida Resort in Winter Haven for Brick-or-Treat, the park’s annual Halloween event
    • Guests can enjoy candy Stations, googly-eyed food and dance parties 
    • Costumes encouraged for children and parents
    • The event is offered on select weekends through Nov. 2


    You can build at Legoland Florida Resort’s Brick or Treat event. The Lego Shop’s new mini addition comes as Halloween descends on the Winter Haven theme park.

    It’s a chance to get silly with the little ones.

    There are candy stations at Brick-Or-Treat, as well as foods with googly eyes and bright colors to entice the picky eater.

    The next step, post food and sweets?

    Hitting the “Lord Vampire’s Dance Party” to work off all that sugar. You’ll find Lord Vampire on the stage in Kingdoms, along with a few VIM’s (Very Important Monsters).

    “It’s fun for everyone, even the parents,” said Juliette Guedry of Legoland Florida Resort. “We do make you dance.”

    MINILAND USA has a Halloween makeover, with little bats, vampires and witches sprinkled throughout. Make sure you check out the coven in the cemetery.

    “You may see a witch who’s lost her way. And she’s maybe thrown into the Washington Monument and smashed against the side non-violently,” said Model Shop Manager Ryan Wood.

    The Lego Tree of Discovery stands tall inside the Lego Shop. (Spectrum News/Virginia Johnson)

    Now back to the remodeled Lego Shop. The first you see is the Lego Tree of Discovery. It’s 11 feet tall, representing 16-hundred hours of brick-snapping creation time. Guests can also get their own spooky mini-figure there.

    “And it starts with Duplo bricks,” said Guedry. “On the bottom goes to standard bricks in between, Technic bricks on top. It really is showing you the system of play that we have throughout the park.”

    Creating and building — what Lego is all about.

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • Your weekend events for Oct. 4-5

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    There’s always plenty to do in Ohio over the weekend, but Spectrum News 1 gathered some of the highlights around each major metropolitan area across the state.

    Here’s some of this weekend’s events:

    Cleveland

    The Ohio City Oktoberfest

    • When and where: 3 to 8 p.m. Oct. 4 at Market Square Park
    • Info: Enjoy live music, plenty of food and drink, family-friendly games and more at this event

    The Towpath Marathon

    • When and where: Saturday, Oct. 4 (starting times vary depending on race) at Canal Basin Park, located at 989 West St. in Cleveland
    • Cost: Registration prices vary, see website for details
    • Info: Whether you’ve got it in you to do a full marathon, half or 10k, lace up your running shoes for this set of races, which also include virtual options

    Columbus

    Columbus Coffee Festival

    • When and where: Oct. 4-5 at the Franklin County Fairgrounds, located at 4100 Columbia St. in Hilliard
    • Cost: Ticket prices vary, see website for details
    • Info: A caffeine-fiend’s dream, check out plenty of coffee roasters/vendors, food trucks, local music, activities and more at this event celebrating its 10th anniversary

    Latino Heritage Art Festival 2025

    • When and where: 3 to 10 p.m. Oct. 4 at Blockfort, located at 162 North 6th St. in Columbus
    • Info: Check out plenty of live music, games, food and more all while celebrating culture and community at this event

    Cincinnati

    Barktoberfest

    • When and where: 2 to 6 p.m. Oct. 4 at the HWB Community Center, located at 34 Village Square in Glendale
    • Info: There’s plenty of fun to be found here for Man’s Best Friend, including vendors, a puppy kissing booth and even on-site adoptions

    Mammoth Music & Arts Festival

    • When and where: 12 to 8 p.m. Oct. 5 on 6th Street between Saratoga and York in Newport, Kentucky
    • Cost: Free
    • Info: Check out plenty of performances at this music festival, including Mambo Combo, Fishbone, Nat Myers and more

    Dayton

    Ohio Renaissance Festival

    • When and where: Aug. 31 – Oct. 27 at 10542 Ohio 73 in Waynesville, Ohio
    • Cost: Ticket prices vary, see website for details
    • Info: Knights, giant turkey legs, period-outfits, swords, shields and plenty more. There’s plenty of old-fashioned entertainment at this event, with this being time viking weekend.

    22nd Annual Chocolate Festival

    • When and where: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds event center, located at 645 Infirmary Road in Dayton
    • Cost: Free
    • Info: Chocolate-lovers can rejoice as the chocolate festival returns, complete with games, entertainment, food and, of course, plenty of chocolate

    Toledo

    American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Toledo Walk

    • When and where: 11:30 a.m. Oct. 4 (check-in at 9:30 a.m.) at Promenade Park in Toledo
    • Cost: No registration fee to attend
    • Info: In addition to the walk, there will also be a memory tent, yoga sessions, raffles, counselors and more at this event

    Genealogy and local history fair

    • When and where: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Toledo Library main library atrium
    • Info: Interested in learning more about your family’s past? This event will help you by connecting you with “local and regional genealogy organizations, authors, and services” in order to help

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Straz Center produces blood-sucking romp in Dracula

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Keaton Miller plays the immortal character Dracula at the Straz Center.

    What You Need To Know

    • Keaton Miller stars in “Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors” at the Straz Center

    • The show offers a humorous reinterpretation of the classic Dracula character

    • Select dates are now available through Oct. 26


    The Straz is producing Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors. It’s a story of the Transylvanian immortal falling in love after an eternity of nothingness.

    ‘’I think what’s super fun is it takes the original character and flips it on his head,” said Miller.

    It is a love story, and Drac gives himself a lot of said love as he basks in his smoking jacket and matching shoes.

    For Miller, reinterpreting the undead bloodsucker calls for discipline. When he commits to the character and acts like he believes his outrageous behavior is absolutely okay, Miller says this draws laughs.

    Because being funny is serious business.

    “Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors” is playing on select dates through Oct. 26.

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • Your weekend events for Sept. 20-21

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    There’s always plenty to do in Ohio over the weekend, but Spectrum News 1 gathered some of the highlights around each major metropolitan area across the state.

    With spooky season around the corner, be sure to check out our bone-chilling haunted house guide here.

    Here’s some of this weekend’s events:

    Cleveland

    Chalk Festival

    • When and where: Noon to 5 p.m. Sept. 20 and 21 at the Cleveland Museum of Art
    • Cost: Free to visit, or $15 for a small square and chalk or $20 for a large square and chalk
    • Info: Showcase your artisitic skills at the chalk festival or check out those of your neighbors at the museum’s annual chalk festival, which is happening rain or shine

    Hispanic Heritage Celebration

    • When and where: Noon to 4 p.m. Sept. 20 at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland
    • Cost: Free
    • Info: Celebrate Hispanic heritage and enjoy various performances and art at this event

    Columbus

    Quest Vineyard Church’s Fall Festival

    • When and where: 5 to 9 p.m. Sept. 20 at the church, located at 4877 Central College Road in Westerville
    • Cost: Free
    • Info: The fall festival includes carnival games, cornhole, food, music and more

    Watershed Distillery Bourbonfest

    • When and where: 5 to 10 p.m. Sept. 20 at Watershed Distillery, located at 1145 Chesapeake Ave. in Columbus
    • Cost: General admission is $20
    • Info: In addition to plenty of bourbon, try out some cocktails and food and enjoy live music at this Columbus event

    Cincinnati

    Oktoberfest Zinzinnati

    • When and where: Sept. 18-21 at Sawyer Point & Yeatman’s Cove, located at 705 E Pete Rose Way in Cincinnati
    • Cost: Free
    • Info: Touted as “America’s largest Oktoberfest,” enjoy everything you’d expect, from food, beer, entertainment and more at this event celebrating German heritage

    Fifth Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival

    • When and where: 3 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 21 at Sharon Woods, located at 11450 Lebanon Road in Sharonville
    • Info: This event celebrating Hispanic culture allows attendees to experience music, dance, food and more

    Dayton

    Ohio Renaissance Festival

    • When and where: Aug. 31 – Oct. 27 at 10542 Ohio 73 in Waynesville, Ohio
    • Cost: Ticket prices vary, see website for details
    • Info: Knights, giant turkey legs, period-outfits, swords, shields and plenty more. There’s plenty of old-fashioned entertainment at this event, with this being the pirates weekend.

    24th Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival & Parade

    • When and where: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Sept. 20 at Riverscape Metropark, located at 237 E Monument Ave. in Dayton
    • Info: Celebrate Hispanic culture and traditions at this event hosted by PACO Dayton, and enjoy various performances, music, food and more

    Toledo

    Corn Maze opening weekend

    • When and where: noon to 10 p.m. Sept. 20 and noon to 6 p.m. Sept. 21 at 11455 Obee Road in Whitehouse, Ohio
    • Cost: $12 for adults (10 and up), $10 for children (4-9) with adults and people older than 65 and free for those under 4
    • Info: There’s plenty of fun to be found in a good old fashioned corn maze, and you’ll also have the chance to enjoy some campfires and nice scenery. The theme for the corn maze this year is “Back to the Future”

    The Ovarian Cancer Connection’s annual Ellen Jackson Walk

    • When and where: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sept. 20 at Buckeye Broadband, located at 2700 Oregon Road in Northwood
    • Cost: General admission is $20 for people 16+, $15 for children 6-15 and $10 for children 5 and younger
    • Info: An opening ceremony will take place at 9:30 a.m., with the walk beginning at 10 a.m., at this event to raise proceeds at this event

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Your weekend events for Sept. 13-14

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    There’s always plenty to do in Ohio over the weekend, but Spectrum News 1 gathered some of the highlights around each major metropolitan area across the state.

    With spooky season around the corner, be sure to check out our bone-chilling haunted house guide here.

    Here’s some of this weekend’s events:

    Cleveland

    Cleveland Pinball & Arcade Show

    • When and where: Sept. 11 -14 at the the Holiday Inn, located at 6001 Rockside Road in Independence
    • Cost: Prices vary, see website for details
    • Info: Lovers of pinball and arcade machines can check out plenty of classic and modern games, all of which will be set to free play at this event

    Crocker Park Wine Festival

    • When and where: 4 to 10 p.m. Sept. 12 and 2 to 10 p.m. Sept. 13 in Crocker Park, located at 189 Crocker Park Blvd. in Westlake
    • Cost: $40 day of event admission
    • Info: There’s more than just wine at this festival. Also check out plenty of breweries, distilleries, food, music, and more

    Columbus

    2025 STEAM Festival

    • When and where: 12 to 5 p.m. Sept. 13 at MPACC Box Park, located at 925 Mt. Vernon Ave. in Columbus
    • Info: This festival boasts that it will be “an unforgettable experience filled with hands-on activities, engaging main stage events, and interactive activation areas.” STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics

    Adult Book Fair

    • When and where: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Land Grant Brewing Company, located at 145 Lucas St. in Columbus
    • Info: If you miss the book fairs from when you were a kid and want to recapture that experience but maybe with a beer in hand, this event may be for you

    Cincinnati

    Clifton Fest Art & Music Festival

    • When and where: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sept. 13 on Ludlow and Clifton avenues
    • Info: Check out a full-fledged block part including performances, vendors and more

    Heart of Country Music Festival

    • When and where: Noon to 5 p.m. (day stage) and 6 to 11 p.m. (main stage) on Sept. 13 at the Kenton County Fairground in Independence, Kentucky
    • Cost: Prices vary, see website for details
    • Info: Artists include Lauren Watkins, Jake Worthington, Randy Houser and more at this event

    Dayton

    LION Gem City 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb 

    • When and where: September 13 at UD Arena 
    • Info: This is the 11th annual memorial climb, honoring the firefighters who died during the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks in New York City. You can also make donations to a climber, the event or a team

    Huber Heights Multicultural Festival

    • When and where: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 13 at the Eichelberger Amphitheater at The Heights, located at 8625 Brandt Pike in Huber Heights
    • Info: This event features performances, food trucks, vendors and more celebrating the multicultural community

    Toledo

    2025 International Festival

    • When and where: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sept. 13 at Erie Street Market, located at 201 S Erie St. in Toledo
    • Cost: Free
    • Info: This event, presented by Toledo Sister Cities, includes food trucks, games, entertainment, a market and more

    Great Lakes Jazz Festival

    • When and where: 12 to 8 p.m. at the Ottawa Park Amphitheater, located at 2205 Kenwood Blvd. in Toledo 
    • Cost: Free
    • Info: Check out Jerome Clark & Friends, Ron Holmes Eclecticism Project, Tariq Gardner and more at this free festival

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Headlands Birding Festival returns for fall migration

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    MENTOR, Ohio — While it may seem hard to believe, fall is emerging already in the Buckeye State.

    The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is preparing to celebrate, but not with the traditional pumpkin patch or pumpkin-flavored drink. Instead, Ohioans are invited to celebrate the fall migration of hundreds of birds at the annual Headlands Birding Festival.

    What You Need To Know

    •  The Headlands Birding Festival is returning this month

    •  It runs from Sept. 19 to Sept. 21 in northeast Ohio

    • Attendees can join field trips to some of the migratory hotspots

    “Every fall, Ohioans are treated to one of nature’s most incredible journeys as thousands of birds pass through our state,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “The Headlands Birding Festival is the perfect way to celebrate this migration while connecting people with the wonder of our natural world.”

    The festival is set for Friday, Sept. 19 through Sunday, Sept. 21 at Headlands Beach State Park and other nearby locations. 

    Headlands/Mentor Marsh region is one of the state’s top birding areas, with Lake County documenting 352 species of birds alone. 

    Attendees can join field trips to some of the migratory hotspots, including a boating experience on Lake Erie. Presentations will be held throughout the festival on bird identification, migration and other related topics.

    The festival is open to all, regardless of experience levels, but registration in advance is encouraged to secure spots for field trips and presentations. 

    For more information, or to register, click here.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Your weekend events for Aug. 30-31

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    There’s always plenty to do in Ohio over the weekend, but Spectrum News 1 gathered some of the highlights around each major metropolitan area across the state.

    Here’s some of this weekend’s events:

    Cleveland

    The 2025 Great Geauga County Fair

    • When and where: Aug. 28 through Sept. 1 at 14373 N Chesire St. in Burton
    • Cost: Ticket prices vary, see website for details
    • Info: Whether it’s horse shows, contests and more, there’s plenty to check out at the county fair.

    The Made In Ohio Festival

    • When and where: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 29-31 at Hale Farm & Village, located at 2686 Oak Hill Road in Peninsula
    • Cost: $12 for adults, and $6 for children ages 3-12
    • Info: The festival features local food and artists, allowing attendees to support their neighbors. This is the 15th annual festival.​

    Columbus

    Columbus Greek Festival

    • When and where: Aug. 29 – Sept. 1 at The Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, located at 555 N. High Street in Columbus, Ohio
    • Cost: $5 for individual days, $10 for a weekend pass and free for kids 12 and younger and active military with ID
    • Info: This festival offers the expected food and entertainment, shopping and dancing as well as cathedral tours during Labor Day weekend

    Tequila Fest Columbus 2025

    • When and where: 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Aug. 30 at Gravity Experience Park, located at 98 McDowell St. in Columbus
    • Info: Check out tacos, beers, live music, a raffle and—of course—plenty of tequila at this 21 and up event

    Cincinnati

    Ohio Renaissance Fair Opening Weekend

    • When and where: Aug. 30 – Sept. 1 at 10542 Ohio 73 in Waynesville, Ohio
    • Cost: Ticket prices vary, see website for details
    • Info: Knights, giant turkey legs, period-outfits, swords, shields and plenty more. There’s plenty of old-fashioned entertainment at this event, with this being the opening weekend.

    Lunken Airport Days

    • When and where: Aug. 30-31 at Lunken Airport, located at 262 Wilmer Ave. in Cincinnati
    • Cost: Free gate admission and parking
    • Info: Check out various historic planes and other vehicles, enjoy food, exhibitors, music and more

    Dayton

    Antique Fire Apparatus Show

    • When and where: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Aug. 30 at Caillon Historical Park, located at 1000 Carillon Blvd. in Dayton
    • Info: This educational event includes dozens of antique fire apparatuses, miniature train rides and more

    The Fair at New Boston

    • When and where: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 30 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 31 at 926 S. Tecumseh Road in Springfeld 
    • Cost: Ticket prices vary, see website for details
    • Info: This decades-old tradition includes an opening day parade, food, early-Americas costumes, crafts and more

    Toledo

    Toledo Sailing Club Lobsterfest

    • When and where: Aug. 29 – Sept. 1 at 2701 Broadway St. in Toledo
    • Cost: $5 wristband
    • Info: In addition to lobster, of couse, the event includes multiple days of entertainment, food, games and more

    Annual Wood County Living History Day

    • When and where: 2 p.m. Aug. 31 at the Wood County Museum Grounds, located at 13660 County Home Road in Bowling Green
    • Cost: Free
    • Info: This event said this is where “history comes alive” with interpreters who share stories of county residents from the past. They encourage attendees to bring lawn chairs

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Halloween Horror Nights unleashes the ultimate nightmares this Friday

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    ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando Resort’s 34th Halloween Horror Nights event begins Aug. 29 with a new sinister lineup lurking throughout the park.

    “We are toxifying and mutating,” said Lora Sauls, Universal’s assistant director of Entertainment Creative Development.

    Some houses are based on well-known icons for those who follow the horror franchises. That includes “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” where guests follow a night security guard in an abandoned themed-entertainment center.

    “It is bringing something to life, immersing guests in the ‘thing’ that they’ve seen,” said Matthew Flood, Universal’s senior show director with Entertainment Creative Development. “So, that film is the incredible experience of being in a defunct pizzeria, and these haunted animatronics are chasing you.”

    Another of the 10 HHN haunted houses is based on the “Terrifier” movie franchise. This house oozes with a new sense of terror that takes guests into Art the Clown’s gruesome Funhouse. This is also the house where you’ll smell things that are hard to forget.

    “We do use scents in a lot of our houses,” Flood said while laughing. “But Terrifier is the worst offender this year.” (HINT: feces)

    Universal’s top chefs are also unleashing a brand-new menu of food and drinks that pays homage to some houses and most feared characters.

    The haunting good time runs through Nov. 2. 

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    Allison Walker

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  • Halloween Horror Nights unleashes the ultimate nightmares this Friday

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    ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando Resort’s 34th Halloween Horror Nights event begins Aug. 29 with a new sinister lineup lurking throughout the park.

    “We are toxifying and mutating,” said Lora Sauls, Universal’s assistant director of Entertainment Creative Development.

    Some houses are based on well-known icons for those who follow the horror franchises. That includes “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” where guests follow a night security guard in an abandoned themed-entertainment center.

    “It is bringing something to life, immersing guests in the ‘thing’ that they’ve seen,” said Matthew Flood, Universal’s senior show director with Entertainment Creative Development. “So, that film is the incredible experience of being in a defunct pizzeria, and these haunted animatronics are chasing you.”

    Another of the 10 HHN haunted houses is based on the “Terrifier” movie franchise. This house oozes with a new sense of terror that takes guests into Art the Clown’s gruesome Funhouse. This is also the house where you’ll smell things that are hard to forget.

    “We do use scents in a lot of our houses,” Flood said while laughing. “But Terrifier is the worst offender this year.” (HINT: feces)

    Universal’s top chefs are also unleashing a brand-new menu of food and drinks that pays homage to some houses and most feared characters.

    The haunting good time runs through Nov. 2. 

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    Allison Walker

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  • Your weekend events for Aug. 23-24

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    There’s always plenty to do in Ohio over the weekend, but Spectrum News 1 gathered some of the highlights around each major metropolitan area across the state.

    Here’s some of this weekend’s events:

    Cleveland

    Cleveland Garlic Festival

    • When and where: Noon to 8 p.m. Aug. 23 and 12 to 6 p.m. Aug. 24 at Historic Shaker Square in Cleveland
    • Cost: Preseale tickets are $9 for adults, $5 for kids 4-12 and seniors 65 and older
    • Info: This event features food, music, face painting, obstacle courses and more all while raising money for the North Union Farmers Market

    Tennis in the Land

    • When and where: Aug. 16-23 at Nautica Entertainment Complex at the Flats West Bank
    • Cost: Ticket prices vary, see website for details
    • Info: See the top professional women’s tennis players at this tournament. The finals are scheduled for Aug. 23 at 12 p.m.

    Columbus

    Columbus Air Show

    • When and where: Aug. 22-24 at the Rickenbacker International Airport in Columbus
    • Cost: Full price for adults is $65, free for kids 15 and younger
    • Info: Check out the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, U.S. Marines C-130J and more at the air show this year

    End of Summer Block Party

    • When and where: Noon to 2 p.m. at Village Social Field at LC New Albany, located at 7070 Bayton Place
    • Cost: Free
    • Info: End of summer already? Close out the season with a day of fun including carnival games, food, giveaways and more

    Cincinnati

    Touch A Truck presented by Duke Energy

    • When and where: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 23 at Court Street Plaza, located at E. Court Street between Vine and Walnut in Cincinnati
    • Cost: Free
    • Info: Kids can explore fire trucks, excavators and more at this event, which will include a sensory-friendly hour from 10 to 11 a.m.

    Germania Society Oktoberfest

    • When and where: 6 to 11 p.m. Aug. 22, 2 to 11 p.m. Aug. 23 and 12 to 7 p.m. Aug. 24 at 3529 W Kemper Road in Cincinnati
    • Cost: $5 admission with kids 12 and under free as well as military with ID
    • Info: There will be plenty of german food, music and—of course—beer. There are events and activities for kids and adults

    Dayton

    Clifton Gorge Music & Arts Festival

    • When and where: Aug. 22 and 23 at 100 North St. in Clifton
    • Info: Enjoy plenty of craft vendors, food, drink, activities and more at this year’s festival

    Greater Dayton Lebanese Festival

    • When and where: 5 to 9 p.m. Aug. 22, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Aug. 23 and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 24
    • Info: If you love Lebanese food, drink, music and dance—or are even curious to learn more—this three-day event might be for you

    Toledo

    Small Business Saturday at Ottawa Park Trail

    • When and where: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 23 at Ottawa Park Trail on Kenwood Drive in Toledo
    • Cost: Free
    • Info: This free event allows attendees to enjoy live entertainment, grab some food getsome shopping in and more

     Bump Set Splat Mud Volleyball tournament

    • When and where: 9 a.m. Aug. 23 at 1406 Key St. in Maumee
    • Cost: Team cost is $450, with up to 10 players per team
    • Info: This muddy volleyball tournament isn’t just for fun. It’s also raising money for Nature’s Nursery 

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    Cody Thompson

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  • New exhibit honors Winter the Dolphin at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium

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    CLEARWATER, Fla. — Doris the Rough-Toothed Dolphin is acclimating to her newish digs at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium—she arrived in June from an aquarium where senior animal care specialist Kelsey Fisher used to work.

    They’re old pals—reunited.

    What You Need To Know

    • New Clearwater Marine Aquarium exhibit “Tales of Winter the Dolphin” looks at Winter the Dolphin’s movie legacy

    • Winter the Dolphin survived the loss of her tail, and inspired two movies and millions of visitors to CMA

    • The exhibit was curated with help of two former CMA interns-turned-staffers

    • Winter’s legacy continues with rescues like Doris the 28-year-old Rough-Toothed Dolphin


    “Oh, it’s amazing. I’ve worked for many, many years to build it,” said Fisher of her relationship to 28-year-old Doris. “It hasn’t been easy at all times. But it’s really rewarding. It’s one of the best parts of the job.”

    She’s memorialized their link by inking the outline of Doris’s tale on the inside of her wrist.

    It’s this kind of love and connection to animals that helped produce their latest exhibit, “Tales of Winter the Dolphin.”

    Winter came to the CMA in 2005.

    She rose to fame as an inspiration after surviving the loss of her tail and was the subject of the 2011 film Dolphin Tale as well as its sequel in 2014.

    Alexis Larson, a film major intern turned full-time CMA staffer, helped curate the exhibit.

    Winter is the reason Larson works at CMA, and wardrobe is her favorite part of the exhibit.

    “So we have multiple costumes from the movies,” she said, pulling out a blouse with a square-cut neck worn by actor Cozi Zuehlsdorff, who played Hazel Haskett.

    Co-curator Haley Cook is also an intern turned staffer—she began her career in 2017.

    She spent four years in the glow of Winter until her untimely death in 2021.

    Cook added in Winter’s favorite enrichment toy—a large-sized rubber ducky—to the exhibition.

    “I think her story is just so magical that it could touch so many people. So I think just I want everyone to remember her legacy,” said Cook.

    All this is here, so the next generation understands just how much they can do – to both protect and care for these creatures.

    It’s a dolphin tale of connection that continues from Winter to Doris and beyond.

    “It’s definitely one of the best parts of the job,” said Fischer, hanging out with Doris. “I think everybody hopes to be able to build one of those extra special relationships starting their career, and I feel very fortunate I have been able to do that.”

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • Guide to 4th of July fireworks, events across Tampa Bay

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    TAMPA, Fla. — The 4th of July, or Independence Day, is commemorating the Declaration of Independence from Great Britain in 1776 and establishing the United States of America. It is often celebrated with family and friend gatherings, barbeques, parades and fireworks.

    Tampa Bay is ready for the holiday with an array of parades and firework shows for all ages. Here’s a county-by-county list of events that are happening around the area.

    All events take place on July 4 unless otherwise stated.
     

    Citrus County

    • Patriotic Evening
      July 3, 5 p.m. | Liberty Park
      The city of Inverness will be hosting its annual fireworks show over Lake Henderson. The event will feature musical performances by Mock of Ages: The Ultimate Def Leppard Tribute and Smokey Jones and The 3 Dollar Pistols. There will also be vendors and plenty of family-friendly activities.
    • 4th of July Celebration
      4 p.m. | Kings Bay Park
      Join the city of Crystal River for a 4th of July celebration. Enjoy live music, food trucks, vendors, games, kids’ activities and a fireworks show over Kings Bay.

     

    Hernando County

     

    Hillsborough County

    • Boom by the Bay
      4 p.m. | Tampa Riverwalk
      The city of Tampa’s annual 4th of July festivities will encompass The Heights District Fourth of July Celebration at Armature Works, Star Spangled Sparkman Wharf and the Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk July 4th Boat Parade along the Hillsborough River. The event will offer live entertainment, a pickleball tournament and food trucks.
    • July 4th Boat Parade
      5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. | Sparkman Wharf
      Boats will be decorated in red, white and blue and compete for the most patriotic boat. This year’s theme is “Salute to Service,” to celebrate military heroes with a patriotic display on the water. There will also be a water ski show and fireworks.
      VIEW MORE INFORMATION IN OUR BOAT PARADE GUIDE

    • 4th of July Celebration
      July 4 – July 6 | Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
      Enjoy Independence Day festivities at Busch Gardens, featuring complimentary beer samples, live performances and a fireworks show choreographed with an arrangement of music and lights.
    • Catch the Spirit & Celebrate America: July 4th Festival
      1 p.m. – 11 p.m. | Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
      Get ready for an day filled with food, contests and live entertainment, culminating in a patriotic drone show at sunset. There will be an after party until 11 p.m.

     

    Manatee County

     

    Pasco County

    Pinellas County

    • The Fourth
      July 4, 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Spa Beach Park & Family Park on the St Pete Pier 
      July 5, 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Spa Beach Park & Throughout St Pete Pier
      The city of St. Petersburg’s annual fireworks show returns with live performances, vendors, food trucks and a family fun zone. Fireworks will be visible from the entire downtown waterfront. (Note: activities vary each day)
    • Clearwater Celebrates America 2024
      5 p.m. – 11 p.m. | Coachman Park
      There will be a free, patriotic performance throughout Coachman Park. Guests can enjoy local vendors, food trucks, family-friendly activities and live music.
    • Treasure Island 4th of July Fireworks
      9 p.m. | Treasure Island Beach
      Celebrate America by watching fireworks light up the sky over Treasure Island Beach. The best viewing areas will be near the Gulf Front Park area of the beach located at 10400 Gulf Blvd.
    • 4th of July Parade & Celebration
      10 a.m. | James Ernst Park
      The event, presented by the Town of Kenneth City and the Kenneth City Police Department, features a day of food, live music, vendors and more. The parade starts at Gabe’s 46th Avenue North and 66th Street North, then down 46th Avenue North to James Ernst Park.
    • 4th of July Picnic in Craig Park
      10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Craig Park
      Bring the family to enjoy live music, a water slide, live music, inflatables, lawn games and more.
    • The city of Gulfport’s 4th of July Celebration
      10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Tomlinson Park
      Officials stated that due to extensive damage sustained in the downtown area, the annual 4th of July Fireworks Show is canceled. The city will instead host a 4th of July Community Parade and Picnic at Tomlinson Park. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a viewing spot. There will be live music, food, children’s activities and more.

    Polk County

     

    According to our Spectrum Bay News 9 meteorologists, the Bay area will see high rain chances for the 4th of July. Be sure to download our Spectrum News app to stay up-to-date on what’s happening in your area and track the weather with our Klystron 9 radar.
     

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Gulfport’s Brenda McMahon Gallery mounts protest show “We the People…”

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    GULFPORT, Fla. — Art is cathartic for Judith Villavisanis. “A lot of things are happening now, and it’s a way of me being able to deal with them,” the muralist said about the political upheaval in the United States.

    The Gulfport artist is working on a piece she named “The Would-Be King Holds Court.”

    “I want people to look at it and form their own opinion about what it is,” said Villavisanis.

    She says the topic is not too hard to figure out this time — it’s about the supreme court.

    The mixed media piece joins other protest art in the exhibition, “We the People. This is what democracy looks like,” at the Brenda McMahon Gallery in Gulfport.

    “There’s so much dialog going on in the country about really fiery issues, controversial issues. And I feel like art has such a way of addressing issues at hand, not with the mental mind, but with the heart.”

    No stranger to protest art — Villavisanis creates work around her worries — like her interpretation of the living swamp in peril: Sorpresa Tempesta.

    “It means everything to me. And a lot of it is disappearing,” she said.

    And where the professional mural artist makes all her ideas real is the sketchbook. “It’s my map.”

    Sometimes this terrain is tricky when she takes the path less traveled.

    But like McMahon, she wants her work to communicate in a way words fail.

    “And I think through art, I can connect better, too, with the message,” said Villavisanis.

    This is her message — her expression of freedom — as the United States celebrates its own.

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    Virginia Johnson

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  • Juneteenth celebrations across Tampa Bay for 2025

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    TAMPA, Fla. — Juneteenth, celebrated annually on June 19, became a federal holiday after former President Joe Biden signed the legislation on June 17, 2021.

    The day commemorates the ending of slavery on June 19, 1865, where Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free — two-and-a-half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation — which had become official January 1, 1863.

    Today, Juneteenth is celebrated to reflect and recognize achievements in the African American community. Here’s a look at the festivities that will be taking place around Tampa Bay.

    Citrus County

    Hernando County

    Hillsborough County

    • City of Tampa Annual Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony and Festival
      Friday, June 13, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. | City Center at Hanna Avenue
      Join Mayor Jane Castor and community members as they gather to raise the Juneteenth flag. There will be free food and various vendors.
    • Juneteenth Cultural Celebration
      Saturday, June 14, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Tampa Museum of Art
      Prepare for a community celebration featuring art-making activities, live music and performances, photobooth experience, gallery discussions, local vendors, and more.
    • Arts Legacy Remix
      Monday, June 16, 7:30 p.m. | Straz Center – Jaeb Theater
      Arts Legacy Remix celebrates the different cultures and talented local artists who reside in the Tampa Bay area. The group is putting on its fifth annual Juneteenth commemoration, featuring spoken remembrances, writings of historical importance and an original performance of music, poetry and dance.
    • Tampa Police Juneteenth Summer Block Party
      Thursday, June 19, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Perry Harvey Sr. Park
      This event will feature local vendors, nonprofits, special recognitions and raffles. 
    • Juneteenth Film Celebration
      Thursday, June 19, 6 p.m. | Tampa Theatre
      The film celebration will exhibit local Tampa Bay area films, filmmakers and actors. There will be several previews, short films and features showcased at the event. The event is free, but requires pre-registration online. 
    • Tampa Bay Juneteenth Festival
      June 16 – 21, 2:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Raymond James Stadium
      This is a multi-day festival featuring a youth summit, a “Cultural Couture Ball,” a public discussion about issues within the community, a family fun day at Topgolf and celebration featuring DJs, vendors and dance performances. The events are free, but it is a ticketed event.

    Manatee County

    Pasco County

    Pinellas County

    Polk County

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    DeJanae Phillips

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