Get ready to eat, shop, and enjoy some of the best music and eats in Tampa Bay. Local favorite Saturday Shoppes is hosting a first-of-its-kind extravaganza this Saturday, with the inaugural Smoke & Seafood Festival. The food-filled extravaganza is bringing a sprawling market and music festival to Lakeland, showcasing some of the area’s best artisan makers and food trucks. Festivities take place Saturday, June 28, from 3-9 pm at the Lakeland Square Mall.
The festival is free to attend, a full afternoon and evening of family-friendly fun, music and revelry. The Smoke & Seafood Fest takes place outdoors at the mall, located at 3800 US HWY 98 N, showcasing a stellar lineup of live music, local chefs and food trucks, craft breweries, and great local small businesses.
As longtime fans and attendees of Saturday Shoppes festivals, we know the food is the best part. This new edition will feature some of the area’s best smokers, pitmasters and chefs, showcasing smoked meats and fresh seafood dishes.
Once you have your food, the main stage will be the center of attention as some of the region’s most talented, celebrated, and up-and-coming musicians will be performing throughout the evening. Table and chair rentals are available for those who want the VIP experience.
In addition to food and music, the sprawling market will be full of local artists, makers, boutiques and more. The festival will also feature line dancing, a teen market, and even a kids area. There will be interactive arts and crafts stations, as well. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair, relax, and enjoy the free entertainment while they eat, drink and browse.
Limited vendor spots remain for the weekend, and those interested in this event or future Saturday Shoppes can learn more here.
Saturday Shoppes provides opportunity for emerging small businesses
Renee Edwards is the brains behind the Saturday Shoppes operation. The goal of the event has always been to create economic development opportunities for emerging businesses through these fast growing monthly markets. Edwards has also founded the Saturday Morning Shoppe Academy to provide business coaching, business etiquette, resources, marketing, and licensure that would allow hobby vendors to grow their business and income.
Using her knowledge and platform, Edwards is able to assist nearly 150 businesses every month by connecting incredible makers and owners to the community they serve.
Upcoming Saturday Shoppes events after this one include the 5th Of July Taste of St. Pete celebration on July 5 and the 727, 813, & 941 Food Truck Wars on July 11. See the full schedule here.