Get ready to shop, eat, and celebrate, because Localtopia is back and ready to uplift St. Pete! This year’s festival, happening Saturday, Feb. 22 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Williams Park and the surrounding streets, is set to be the biggest yet, showcasing over 300 of St. Pete’s awesome independent businesses and community organizations.
After a challenging year, Olga Bof, Founder and Executive Director of Keep Saint Petersburg Local (KSPL), says this Localtopia is “the most important ever.”
“It’s been tough enough trying to survive post-pandemic, in an ever-changing St. Pete, with higher costs,” Bof said. “Then came one of the slowest summers ever sales-wise, followed by the hurricanes, and then a weak holiday season that they were counting on to make up for the previous months.”
But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom! Localtopia is here to bring the good vibes back with local artists, performers, a family zone, and health and wellness areas. And even though the Williams Park bandshell took a hit from Hurricane Milton, “it’s still operational and bands will be performing during the event.”
Foodies, get excited! There will be nearly 20 local food trucks and a “Draft Beer Central” featuring local breweries. In total, more than 70 food and drink vendors are expected, so come hungry!
Bof emphasizes that Localtopia is more than just a shopping day; it’s a chance to show some love to the businesses that make St. Pete special.
“It’s always been such a special day that people feel so uplifted. Everybody’s coming together, and it’s story-filled, and hopefully that buoys us through this coming year,” she said. “St. Pete is such a special place, and these are such special businesses. Localtopia is a very visible manifestation of that message.”
With a huge turnout expected, ditch the car and hop on the SunRunner for fare-free rides, or snag a $10 parking spot at Tropicana Field and catch the free Star Trolley shuttle. Just remember, event organizers encourage attendees to leave pets at home due to the large crowds.
So mark your calendars and get ready for a day of fun, community, and local love!