Check out our list of statewide festivals and events for October.

Compiled by Joice Veselka/Special Correspondent

Central Florida
Covering the I-4 corridor from Daytona to Tampa plus Sarasota and Brevard County

Oct. 1-3: U.S. Waveski Championships, Melbourne Beach. This unusual competition draws entrants from all over the world vying to take home the coveted championship trophy. Waveski surfers are seated on a 7- to 9-foot board, and strapped in with a double-sided paddle in hand. Similar to surfers, they ride the waves and make spectacular maneuvers that leave spectators wondering how they did it. At Sebastian Inlet State Park. Regular park admission fees apply. Contest dates and time vary according to surf conditions. 321-984-4852. http://uswaveski.com/sebastian.html

Oct. 2-3: Ranch Rodeo Finals and Cowboy Heritage Festival, Kissimmee. Special year-end rodeo and tribute to Florida ranching and the unique Cracker Cowman way of life. In the rodeo, participating teams will have qualified by placing first or second in one of eight Ranch Rodeos held previously in various Florida cities. Categories of competition include saddle bronc riding, colt riding, wild cow milking, branding, team doctoring, double mugging, cattle sorting, stampede race, and a boot scramble for the kids. The cowboy heritage festival features leather crafts, whip making, spur making, saddle making, cowboy artwork and crafts, cowboy poetry, storytelling, swamp cabbage cooking, Dutch oven cooking, working cow dog demonstrations. Also historical reenactments of Cracker cow camps and Native American Seminole tribe encampment, plus beef cook-off competition, whip-popping contest, story tellers and more. At Silver Spurs Arena. Rodeo admission $10 adults, 10 and under free. Cowboy Festival free. 407-846-6221. www.floridacattlemen.org/d/news/2009_ranch_rodeo.pdf

Oct. 2-4: Music Fest, Winter Garden. Outdoor and indoor music celebration boasting 30 different music genres that could include everything from country, jazz and blues to Americana, acoustic, classic rock, southern rock, funk, pop, classical, opera, musical theater, choral, and more. Vendors sell everything from soy candles to fine handcrafted jewelry. Greek, BBQ, Jamaican, Caribbean, Italian, Asian and American food specialties tempt the palate. Also offered are free music seminars and workshops, and a KidzFest with a variety of activities. On Plant Street downtown. Free. 407-292-7922. www.wintergardenmusicfest.com/

Oct. 3: First Saturday Jam, Barberville. On the first Saturday each month visit the Pioneer Settlement for entertainment and fun for the entire family. 9 a.m to 5 p.m. There will be informal music jams, free workshops, food, and a barn-style dance at 3 p.m. 386-749-2959. www.pioneersettlement.org

Oct. 3: National Collegiate Step Show, Daytona Beach. A competition that fosters togetherness. Join "Step" groups from all over the country, entering their world of rhythm, dancing, music and more. Cash prizes totaling $20,000 and trophies will be awarded. At Ocean Center. Admission $25 adults, $10 children 2-12. 386-675-3985. http://www.2009ncsc.com.

Oct. 4: Second Annual Hot Pepper Festival, St. Petersburg. Have a sizzling experience in Sunken Gardens. Festival includes a variety of pepper plants, from sweet to hot, plus pepper-themed clothing, jewelry, artwork and more. In addition there are pepper jellies, food, hot sauces, hot Latin music and frosty beverages to wash it all down. Not to be missed is the Tijuana Flats' Hot Pepper Eating Contest when those who dare will eat a mound of peppers. Admission $8 adults, $6 seniors 55+, $4 children 2-11. 727-551-3102. www.sunkengardens.org

Oct. 7-11: Ringling International Arts Festival, Sarasota. Splendid kick-off to the Florida Gulf Coast 2009-10 cultural season with nine performances in music, theater and dance, and two major art exhibitions. The five-day festival reflects a unique partnership between the Baryshnikov Arts Center in New York City and the Ringling Museum of Art, reflecting the former's commitment to presenting both emerging and established artists at the forefront of their fields, and envisions utilizing the latter's exceptional facilities as a home for this vibrant cultural gathering place for artists and audiences alike. The five-day festival will feature artists from Australia, Canada, England, France, Israel, Scotland, Spain and America, presented in the Historic Asolo Theater, Mertz Theatre, and Cook Theatre. Please note that all performances, except opening night concert, are offered at multiple times over the course of the five days. Tickets may be purchased in festival packages or in single ticket sales. 941-360-7399. A detailed schedule of events is available at www.ringlingartsfestival.org

Oct. 8-10: Second Annual Fall Palatka Bluegrass Festival, Palatka. Three-day event featuring top names in bluegrass music and drawing an estimated audience of 1,000. At Rodeheaver Boys' Ranch. 706-864-7203. http://aandabluegrass.com/Festivals/FallPalatkaBluegrassFesti.html

Oct. 9-11: 35th Annual Bicycle Festival, Mount Dora. Attracting 1,000 cyclists, this is Florida's oldest and largest bicycling event, featuring rides of varying lengths and skill levels. 352-383-2165. www.mountdora.com/festivals.php

Oct. 10-11: 36th Annual Winter Park Autumn Art Festival, Winter Park. A juried art show with a 30-year tradition, drawing more than 40,000 people. The show features work by outstanding Orlando artists and also offers live entertainment and food provided by local restaurants. Children's art workshops are also offered. In Central Park. Free. 407-644-8281. www.winterparkartfestival.com

Oct. 10-11: Vintage Venture at Lakeridge Winery, Clermont. There is nothing better than a Vintage Car Show to bring back nostalgia. These special gems from the past are a must-see and you can also enjoy a variety of live vintage '50s and '60s music by top class performers on the outdoor stage. Lakeridge wine, beer, soft drinks and a variety of food will be available for purchase, along with complimentary winery tours and wine tasting. At Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards. Admission $2. 800-768-9463. www.lakeridgewinery.com

Oct. 11: Family Fun Day at Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge, DeLeon Springs. Celebration of National Wildlife Refuge Week and its 100th anniversary. Activities include wildlife rehab with hourly releases, butterfly and wildlife exhibits, native plant exhibit and sales, spotting scope, and tram tours to Audubon lookout. Free. 386-985-4673, 734-6123. www.volusia.org/parks/lkwoodruff.htm

Oct. 15-18: Biketoberfest, Daytona Beach. Biketoberfest in Daytona Beach is a rousing, fun-filled weekend that attracts more than 125,000 motorcycle enthusiasts from near and far. Activities include rides, concerts, food and much more. Admission: Free. 386-255-0415. www.biketoberfest.org

Oct. 15-18: Clearwater Jazz Holiday, Clearwater. In its 30th year, the annual Jazz Holiday brings together all veins of jazz music in four days of free entertainment at Coachman Park in downtown Clearwater. One of the longest-running and best-known free live jazz events in the country, it has presented in concert virtually every jazz luminary of our generation. This year's event features The Neville Brothers, Chris Botti, Boney James and more. And the signature celebration sets the stage for the most recognized Smooth Jazz, Rhythm and Blues, Fusion, Latin and local bands ever assembled. At Coachman Park. Free admission (lawn seating, so bring lawn chairs). 727-461-5200. www.clearwaterjazz.com

Oct. 16-17: Frenchy's Stone Crab Claw Festival, Clearwater Beach. Join in the fun on this 25th anniversary of the restaurant's famous stone crab weekend. Festivities this year will include a huge block party and live entertainment. Free admission. 727-446-1522. www.frenchysonline.com/events

Oct. 16-17: Anna Maria Island Chamber Bayfest, Anna Maria. Kick off party is Friday night with food, beer, wine, soda and entertainment. Saturday offers entertainment, classic cars. "Taste of the Island" features specialties of area restaurants. Unique art, crafts and retail items for sale, plus a children's play area. On Pine Avenue. Free. 941-778-1541, 761-4766. www.floridasgulfislands.com/events

Oct. 16-18, 24-25: Pumpkin Festival, Bradenton. Kids and adults will enjoy a day at a real working farm with homemade apple cider, a petting farm, old country store, pumpkin patch and arts and crafts. Festival to include BMX Stunt Show, Freestyle Moto-X Stunt Show, corn maze, scarecrow displays, hay rides, live music, and much more. At Hunsader Farms. Admission $7, children 12 and under free; parking $4. 941-322-2168. www.hunsaderfarms.com

Oct. 17: Oktoberfest Fly-In, Kissimmee. Bratwurst, beer and airplanes at new Kissimmee Air Museum at Kissimmee Gateway Airport. Special behind-the-scenes tour of the aircraft restoration center's Focke Wulf 190 project. Admission $6 plus charges for food, nonalcoholic beverages and Oktoberfest beer. 800-386-7593. www.warbirdadventures.com

Oct. 17-18: Placida Rotary Nautical Flea Market, Placida. Annual cooperative event of the Rotary Club of Placida and the Fishery Restaurant. Vendors line the water's edge, just behind the restaurant, offering a variety of fun marine and boating items plus affordable food offerings from Fishery seafood to chili, hotdogs, hamburgers and beverages. Crab races, clowns and face painting are always favorites for the kids. Event is especially known for its many nautical shopping bargains, and guests can find unique marine parts, nautical antiques, nautical collectibles, deck shoes, local area crafts, colorful artwork, sun glasses, fossils, casual clothing, and colorful boating accessories. For boating aficionados, there is a great selection of new-quality, trailer-able fishing boats, top-of-the-line Boston Whaler, and Sea Ray pleasure boats from Marine Max at special "show" prices. Admission adults $3, children under 12 free. 941-697-2271 x2. www.visitflorida.com/events/taggroup.Venice

Oct. 17-18: Art in the Park Festival, Lady Lake. Fourth annual. Fine arts, fine crafts, entertainment, food. At the Historic Log Cabin, Hwy. 27 and 441. Free admission, free parking. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com

Oct. 17-18, 24-25, 31: Zoo Boo Bash, Sanford. Trick-or-treat in the wildest neighborhood in town at the Central Florida Zoo. This event is a fun and not-too-scary event for young and old alike. Children can wear costumes for trick-or-treat stations and face painting. Visitors can take a haunted hayride, visit the pumpkin patch for a fun photo and learn about the myths and realities of some misunderstood animals. Included in regular park admission, $10.95 adults, $8.95 seniors 60+, children 3-12 $6.95, 2 and under free. 407-323-4450. www.centralfloridazoo.org

Oct. 19-25: Fashion Week at The Mall at Millenia, Orlando. See designer runway shows and a sneak preview of spring 2010's hottest fashion trends straight from international runways right here in Central Florida. Fashion followers will find more fun than they can fit inside a designer bag with a week-long series of in-store events such as trunk shows and champagne receptions. Free. 407-363-3555. www.mallatmillenia.com

Oct. 23-25: Great American Cooter Festival, Inverness. Barbecue cook-off, bike rides, live entertainment, food and craft vendors, carnival rides, family entertainment, games, cooter races and more. Sunny Cooter and his friends visit local restaurants for Miss Cooter and Cooter Idol competitions. Winners are picked Friday and Saturday, during the Cooter Blast and Cooter Festival. And Cooterween, a Halloween spook-tacular on Sunday, is one of the biggest outdoor costume parties in this neck of the woods. In Liberty Park and Wallace Brooks Park. 352-726-2801. http://visitcitrus.com/eventpop.asp?EventID=768

Oct. 23-25: 2010 Model Tampa Bay International Auto Show, Tampa. Twentieth annual show, which will feature hundreds of new cars, crossovers, trucks and hybrids, plus pre-production vehicles. At Tampa Convention Center. Admission $9 adults; $4 seniors, military, students and children 7-12; children 6 and under free. 800-426-5630. www.autoshowtampa.com

Oct. 24: Seafood and Jazz on the Green, Palmetto. Dine on a variety of seafood dishes "on the green" of the beautiful Terra Ceia Bay Club, and enjoy live jazz performances by top local musicians. Benefit for Food Bank of Manatee. Admission $30 per person, $65 VIP. 941-981-3834. www.mealsonwheelsplus.org/events_calendar.htm

Oct. 24: 4-H Centennial Celebration Festival, Brooksville. Throughout 2009 Florida 4-H has been celebrating 100 years of proven youth development programs, and Hernando County hosts its local party on this date. Includes food, arts and crafts, and games. At Hernando County Fairgrounds. Free. 352-287-1371. www.co.hernando.fl.us/County_Extension/press/4HCentennial.htm

Oct. 24: 19th Annual Sarasota Blues Festival, Sarasota. Join thousands of Sarasota music fans as they gather for this popular blues fest. Performers include Little Feat, Duke Robillard, Larry McCray and others. Traditional bluesfest lawn seating at Ed Smith Stadium Complex. Admission $25 day of show, $20 advance. 941-954-4101 x5454. www.sarasotabluesfest.com

Oct. 24: Fall Festival at Wekiwa Springs State Park, Apopka. Family fun event offering pumpkin painting, sace races, wildlife exhibits, arts and crafts, and food. Third annual, sponsored by Wekiva Wilderness Trust, Inc.. On the slope in front of the springs. Regular park entrance fee, $6. 407-884-2008. www.floridastateparks.org/wekiwasprings/Events.cfm

Oct. 24-25: Mount Dora Craft Fair, Mount Dora. This nationally ranked, juried event continues to attract more than 250,000 visitors and more than 350 of the best crafters in the country. In downtown streets. Free admission. 866-683-6722. mountdora.com/festivals.php

Oct. 24-25: Third Annual Fort Chokonikla Encampment, Bowling Green. This year celebrates the 160 anniversary of Fort Chokonikla, and living history demonstrations of pioneer settlers and Seminole and soldier encampments depict what life was like in 1849. Various groups serve as vendors for food, period gifts and items of interest for all ages, and educational activities for children. At Paynes Creek Historic State Park. Park entry fee only, $3 per vehicle, $2 for pedestrians, bicyclists. 863-375-4717. www.floridastateparks.org/paynescreek/Events.cfm

Oct. 25: Festival Calle Orange, Orlando. Central Florida's largest Hispanic festival bringing together people of many nationalities, religions and backgrounds to enjoy food, music and dancing in the streets. Features multiple stages of music from Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean, kiosks offering foods and delicacies from all the countries, and entire blocks dedicated to all types of entertainment including sports and children's activities. Downtown in special ten-block designated area. Admission $15, children 10 and under free. 407-381-5310. www.renesproductions.com/Calle%20Orange.html

Oct. 30-Nov. 1: Florida Balloon Festival, Apopka. Hot air balloons, classic cars, music, crafts, food and more. Balloon rides available on a first-come basis. A Safe Zone is set up for kids with trick or treating to each hot air balloon. Also inflatables, clowns and face painting. At Northwest Recreation Complex, 3200 Jason Dwelley Pkwy. 407-886-5393. www.floridaballoonfestival.com

Oct. 31-Nov. 1: Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks Art and Craft Festival, Tarpon Springs. Fine art, fine craft, food, music. On Dodecanese Boulevard. Free admission. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com


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South Florida
Covering the Keys, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, the Treasure Coast and Southwest Florida including Naples, Fort Meyers and Punta Gorda

Oct. 2-30: Festival Miami 2009, Miami. Festival Miami is the annual musical festival that opens the South Florid arts season, providing diverse musical programming while expanding academic opportunities and cultural enrichment to all of South Florida and its visitors. It presents 20 concerts over a four-week period, and each concert will fall under one of four themes – Great Performances, Jazz and Beyond, Creative American Music, and Music of the Americas. Gusman Concert Hall, University of Miami. 305-284-4940. www.festivalmiami.com

Oct. 3: Lincoln Road Gallery Walk, Miami Beach. Showcases more than 40 resident artists at the Arts Center Studios across three locations and other galleries in the heart of Miami Beach. Stroll Lincoln Road, browse fabulous art and enjoy free hors d'oeuvres. 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Free. 305-674-8278. www.miamiandbeaches.com/visitors/calendar.aspx

Oct. 3: Charlotte Harbor Challenge and Ultimate Rib Fest, Punta Gorda. For more than two decades the CDBIA's annual fishing tournament has attracted anglers from all over Florida. In 2008, the event was expanded to include a harbor-side community festival and rib competition for area restaurants. The "Ultimate Rib Fest" supported Big Brothers Big Sisters and was an instant success. Thousands turned out to taste the ribs, browse exhibitor booths, enjoy family-friendly entertainment and watch the anglers weigh in their tournament catch at the end of the day. At Laishley Park, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 941-625-0804. www.charlotteharborchallenge.com/2009-ultimate-rib-fest.htm

Oct. 3: Wine on Harvest Moon, Miami. Enjoy fine wine, fine food and fine art under the golden light of the Harvest Moon over Biscayne Bay at the Deering Estate at Cutler. Admission $60 members, $75 non-members, 305-235-1668 x263. www.deeringestate.org

Oct. 3-4: Summerset Regatta, Fort Myers Beach. Fifty boats carrying 250 sailors will compete in the 44th annual Summerset Regatta over Labor Day weekend. For the past 37 years, the event has been hosted by a local yachting club that calls itself the Caloosahatchee Marching and Chowder Society, but sailors from up and down the Southwest Florida coast participate. For spectators, the sight of billowy sails and sleek yachts racing with the wind stirs romantic notions of a sport that requires skill, strategy, and muscle. Crowds gather on the Fort Myers Beach Fishing Pier and the beach around it for buoy races on Oct. 3, a distance race on Oct. 4, and shore activities both days. 239-267-2538. www.cmcs-sail.org

Oct. 3-4: Downtown Delray Beach Craft Festival, Delray Beach. Streets of downtown Delray Beach are transformed into an outdoor craft showcase, complete with 150 crafters offering affordable original works. Free admission. 954-472-3755. www.artfestival.com/events/visitors

Oct. 4: New World Symphony – Concerts for Kids, Miami Beach. This popular educational series features interactive commentary from the stage and fun, interactive programs. Come early and meet the musicians at the Instrument Petting Zoo, where children can see and play the instruments. Two shows, 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. At Lincoln Theatre. Admission $16. 305-673-3331. www.nws.edu

Oct. 4: Suntrust Sunday Jazz Brunch, Fort Lauderdale. Live outdoor concert series bringing the area's best local jazz artists to the city's scenic Riverwalk. Listen to the soulful sounds on four different stages. Everyone is welcome to attend, including well-behaved, leashed pets, and there is ample room to set up chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. Free admission. 954-828-5363. www.fortlauderdale.gov/events/jazzbrunch/jazzbrunch.htm

Oct. 9-11: Pirate Festival, Fort Myers Beach. Strap on your eyepatch and join your mateys at the Third Annual Pirate Festival, where more fun than ever is scheduled. On both Oct. 10 and 11 there will be a pirate invasion and parade and pirate ship-to-shore battle with real black powder cannons. The festival also features two stages of live entertainment, and some of the best pirate crews, pirate actors and reenactors, pirate storytellers, pirate musicians and pirate fighting crews from across Florida. On Old San Carlos Blvd. Free. 239-226-0040. www.beachpiratefestival.com

Oct. 9-12: Miami Carnival Parade and Festival, Miami. Traditional West Indian-style Carnival and parade featuring Caribbean music, costumes, food, arts and crafts and more. Parade date is Oct. 11. It starts at noon on NE 27th Street at NE 2nd Avenue and travels along Biscayne Boulevard and Bayshore Drive before going into Bicentennial Park, where festivities ensue 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. 305-653-1877 . www.miamicarnival.net

Oct. 10: Parkapalooza, Port Charlotte. Biggest music festival to hit Charlotte County, featuring music, food, and fun. Headliner is Little River Band. At Charlotte Sports Park. Admission $15 ($10 in advance) plus parking fee of $5 per vehicle. 941-235-5010. http://charlottecountyfl.com/Parks/PARKapalooza/

Oct. 10-11: Coconut Creek Craft Festival, Coconut Creek. Debut of new show at the Promenade, Coconut Creek's newest retail and dining site. From folk art, pottery, handmade jewelry and paintings to personalized gifts, handmade clothing, scented soaps and body products, a full spectrum of craft art mediums will be offered, with prices ranging from $3 to $3,000. This craft festival will also include a Green Market with plants, flora, and orchids. Free admission. 954-472-3755. www.artfestival.com

Oct. 10-11: Columbus Day Regatta 2009, Key Biscayne. More than 200 sailboats race between Key Biscayne Island and Dinner Key Channel on Biscayne Bay. Races are from north to south on Saturday, and from south to north on Sunday. 305-858-1733. www.columbusdayregatta.net

Oct. 11: Oktoberfest by The German School of South Florida, Miami. The 18th annual Oktoberfest hosted by The German School of South Florida, Inc., features authentic food and music in an outdoor carnival atmosphere. More than 100 children showcase German culture and heritage through music, poetry, art and theater. At German American Social Club, 1 to 5 p.m. Free admission. 305-669-1337. http://www.gipa.org

Oct. 12-26: South Florida Theatre Festival 2009, Miami. Twenty seven of South Florida's premier performing arts organizations present an array of live theatre productions, including drama, comedy, musicals and family-friendly plays. At various theaters throughout Miami and Dade County. 954-557-0778. www.southfloridatheatre.com

Oct. 14-18: Funkshion Fashion Week, Miami Beach. Official fashion week of the city of Miami and Miami Beach. Twenty-one top world designers will showcase their new lines in individual fashion shows. At various locations throughout Miami and Miami Beach. 305-673-2756. http://www.funkshion.com

Oct. 15: Downtown Gallery Walk, Punta Gorda. Held monthly on the third Thursday, 5-8 p.m. Visit any of the downtown merchants, restaurants and galleries for your game card. As always, there will be live entertainment, food and drink samplings, art, beauty and health demonstrations, a free trolley, and an evening of fun. Free; free parking. 941-505-1915. www.puntagordashopping.com

Oct. 16: Rocktoberfest, Fort Lauderdale. Live rock bands, beer samples and food. Downtown Fort Lauderdale, 5:30 to 10 p.m. Admission $15 prepaid, $20 door. 954-468-1541. http://www.goriverwalk.com/

Oct. 16-18: Peace River Boat Show and Flatsmasters Series Championship, Port Charlotte. Back by popular demand, this is the third annual boat show. Area dealers will display boats in Laishley Park and in the marina, and a variety of vendors will exhibit marine products and other goods. The Top 40 teams from this year's Flatsmasters series will compete in the Flatsmasters Championship. Free admission, free parking. 941-206-1188 x120; 815-0324. www.flatsmasters.com

Oct. 16-18: Hollywood Beach Clambake, Hollywood Beach. Enjoy tasty seafood from local restaurants and live entertainment, all along the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk. Hours are 5-10:30 p.m. Friday, noon-11 p.m. Saturday, and noon-9 p.m. Sunday. 954-921-3404. www.hollywoodfl.org/parks_rec/hlwd_par.htm

Oct. 16-18, 23-25: Oktoberfest, Cape Coral. German tradition is alive and well in Cape Coral, home of Lee County's largest annual Oktoberfest, now in its 24th year. Hosted by the German-American Club, it is a huge celebration of German culture, food, music and dancing features. Highlights include authentic live entertainment from musical groups from Germany, along with enough German food and beer to make anyone do the Chicken Dance. Friday 4 p.m.-midnight, Saturday noon-midnight, Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Tickets $5 in advance, $6 at the gate. At German-American Club. 239-283-1400. www.gasc-capecoral.com

Oct. 17-18: Placida Rotary Nautical Flea Market, Placida. Annual cooperative event of the Rotary Club of Placida and the Fishery Restaurant. Vendors line the water's edge, just behind the restaurant, offering a variety of fun marine and boating items plus affordable food offerings from Fishery seafood to chili, hotdogs, hamburgers and beverages. Crab races, clowns and face painting are always favorites for the kids. Event is especially known for its many nautical shopping bargains, and guests can find unique marine parts, nautical antiques, nautical collectibles, deck shoes, local area crafts, colorful artwork, sun glasses, fossils, casual clothing, and colorful boating accessories. For boating aficionados, there is a great selection of new-quality, trailer-able fishing boats, top-of-the-line Boston Whaler, and Sea Ray pleasure boats from Marine Max at special "show" prices. Admission adults $3, children under 12 free. 941-697-2271 x2. www.visitflorida.com/events/taggroup.Venice

Oct. 17-18: Mayfair Antique Market, Coconut Grove. Monthly indoor/outdoor antique market featuring antiques, collectibles, furniture, jewelry, paintings, objets d'art and more. At The Promenade at Mayfair. Free. 305-673-4991. www.antiquecollectiblemarket.com

Oct. 17-18: Viva Broward, Pompano Beach. Celebration of Hispanic Heritage month. Non-stop salsa, meringue, food, arts, and kid's fun all day. At Pompano Citi Centre, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. 954-527-0627. http://wedoevents.net/

Oct. 17-19: Key Largo Pirates Festival, Key Largo. Buccaneers and wenches can enjoy three days of piratical fun including a costume contest, walk the plank, rum tasting, booty hunt, pirate show, thieves market, underwater poker and more. 305-394-3736. www.keylargopiratesfest.com

Oct. 18-24: "Ding" Darling Days, Sanibel Island. Family Fun Day on Oct. 18 kicks off a week of eco-activities with all-free refuge tram tours, live wildlife presentations, hot dogs, kids crafts and more. Birding, boating, and kayaking tours fill the week with environmental activities for all ages. Oct. 24 is Conservation Through Art Day, where Federal Duck Stamp Winners, a cartoonist, children's author Marianne Berkis, a nature artist, and refuge tours will highlight a day devoted to Jay Norwood Darling's legacy as the first duck stamp artist and Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist. At "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge. 239-472-1100. www.dingdarlingdays.com

Oct. 21: Sunny Serenade, Sunny Isles Beach. Come enjoy a night under the stars with live musical entertainment and dancing. Light refreshments for sale. Free admission. 7:30 to 9 p.m. At Samson Oceanfront Park. 305-792-1706. http://www.sibfl.net/

Oct. 23-24: Goombay Festival, Key West. Held in Key West's historic Bahama Village neighborhood, the lively Goombay is known for its island-style food, handmade African arts and crafts, nonstop live entertainment and dancing in the streets. Marks the beginning of Fantasy Fest. 305-896-5514. www.goombay-keywest.org

Oct. 23-Nov. 1: Calusa Blueway Paddling Festival, Pine Island and other locations in Lee County. Paddlers, competitors, families, and outdoor enthusiasts from around the nation are expected to attend this one-of-a-kind eco-event. Ten days of festivities at Bonita, Fort Myers Beach and Pine Island will include a fish fry, competitive canoe/kayak races, a pro-am kayak fishing tournament, paddling clinics and demonstrations, seminars, family activities, archaeological and environmental events, guided tours, and more celebrations along the Great Calusa Blueway paddling trail. 239-433-3855. www.calusabluewaypaddlingfestival.com

Oct. 23 – Nov 1: 30th Annual Fantasy Fest, Key West. "Villains, Vixens and Vampires" is the theme for this outrageous 10-day celebration, which includes costume competitions, promenades, street fairs and a grand parade featuring marching groups and lavish floats. 305-296-1817. www.fantasyfest.net.

Oct. 23-Nov. 1: South Florida Auto Show 2010, Miami Beach. Car-related merchandise and more than 1,000 of the industry's latest vehicles for the upcoming year are on display by world-leading auto manufacturers. At Miami Beach Convention Center. Admission $10 adults, children 6-12 $3.. 305-947-5950. www.sfliautoshow.com

Oct. 23-Nov. 8: Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival, Fort Lauderdale. Competitive film festival showcasing independent cinema from around the world. Premieres, documentaries, free films for kids, free outdoor family movies, student film competition, black tie galas, celebrities. Free seminars. At Cinema Paradiso. 954-760-9898. www.fliff.com/

Oct. 24: Sunny Isles Beach Jazz Fest, Sunny Isles Beach. Annual festival celebrates the extraordinary sounds of jazz music, featuring world-renowned jazz entertainers and notable local artists performing amidst the backdrop of the Atlantic ocean. At Samson Oceanfront Park. Admission $25. 305-792-1908. www.sunnyislesbeachjazz.com

Oct. 24-25: Swamp Buggy Fall Classic Races, Naples. The world's fastest and muddiest races follow the 59th annual Swamp Buggy Parade in downtown Naples. Races take place at Florida Sports Park. Tickets are $17.50 in advance for persons 12 and older, or $20 at the track the day of the race. 239-774-2701. www.swampbuggy.com

Oct. 24-25: Kitchen and Gardening Fall Festival, Coral Gables. Local products, world-renowned chefs, kid's activities and more. Learn everything needed to know about growing garden goodies for the whole family. At Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. 305-667-1651. www.fairchildgarden.org

Oct. 24-25: Las Olas Art Fair with Oktoberfest Beer Garden, Fort Lauderdale. Outdoor event featuring more than150 artists from around the nation and an authentic Oktoberfest Beer Garden with European Microbrews. Along Las Olas Boulevard, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 954-472-3755. www.artfestival.com

Oct. 25: Underwater Pumpkin Carving, Key Largo. Scuba divers participate in a unique jack o'lantern carving contest, under 30 feet of water and with a coral reef backdrop. At Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. 305-451-3595. www.fla-keys.com/calendarofevents

Oct. 25: Historic Coral Gables Waterway Canoe Ecoadventure, Miami. Canoe the historic Coral Gables waterway as naturalist guides take you back in time to the days of George Merrick and the birth of Coral Gables and the famous Biltmore Hotel. Meet at 9 a.m. at A.D. Barnes Park. Reservations are required. Price is $33 per person. 305-365-3018. www.miamidade.gov/ecoadventures/kayak_snorkel_coralgables.asp

Oct. 25: Alhambra Orchestra Halloween Concert, Coral Gables. Greater Miami Youth Symphony and Alhambra Orchestra combine for a family concert of dramatic and famous symphony music to put you in the mood for Halloween. Free admission, raffle, reception. 4 p.m. Ransom-Everglades School Auditorium. 305-668-9260. www.alhambramusic.org

Oct. 29-Nov. 2: 50th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, Fort Lauderdale. Largest boat show in the world, covering six sites: Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Broward County Convention Center, Fort Lauderdale Grande Hotel and Yacht Club, Hyatt Pier 66 Hotel and Marina, Hall of Fame Marina, and Las Olas Marina. Displaying more than a billion dollars' worth of boats, yachts and accessories from every major marine manufacturer worldwide, it is the world's premier venue for superyachts. General admission $18 adults, $ 5 children 6-15; advance tickets slightly less. 954-764-7642. www.showmanagement.com/fort_lauderdale_international_boat_show_2009/event/

Oct. 30: Jazz at MOCA, Miami. The popular Jazz at MOCA series presents free outdoor concerts on the last Friday of every month. Music starts at 8 p.m. The museum is open from 7 to 10 p.m. by donation. At Museum of Contemporary Art. 305-893-6211. www.mocanomi.org

Oct. 31-Nov. 6: World Championships of the 2.4mR Sailboats, Fort Myers. Fort Myers takes the world stage in 2009 when it hosts a fleet that competed in the Beijing Paralympics and raced in the 2008 World Championships in the Canary Islands. Fort Myers River District serves as the headquarters for the seven-day regatta with competition along the Caloosahatchee. Edison Sailing Center in Fort Myers will host the championships. Prior to the championships, Fort Myers also will host three days of national-level competition, Oct. 26-28, at Edison Sailing Center. 239-340-2345. www.edisonsailingcenter.org

North Florida & the Panhandle
Covering St. Augustine, Jacksonville, Ocala, Tallahassee and the Panhandle

Oct. 2: First Friday Art Walk, St. Augustine. One of the city's most popular cultural events, held the first Friday of each month. Enjoy new exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at more than 20 participating galleries, plus great food courtesy of the St. Augustine Independent Restaurant Assn. Tours begin at Rembrandtz American Craft Gallery. St. Augustine Sightseeing Trains and Old Town Trolleys offer complimentary shuttle service to most galleries. Shuttles run on a continuous loop every 30 minutes. 904-829-0065. www.artgalleriesofstaugustine.com

Oct. 2-4: Destin Seafood Festival, Destin. Weekend event to kick off the October Destin Fishing Rodeo, where local seafood restaurants offer a true taste of Destin. Arts and crafts, children's activities and live entertainment round out festivities. This year the event returns to HarborWalk Village on Destin Harbor, with live entertainers performing at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Admission for the entire 3-day weekend is $15, or daily tickets are $5 each for Friday and Sunday and $10 for Saturday. 850-837-6241. www.destinseafoodfestival.org

Oct. 2-11: Amelia Island Jazz Festival, Fernandina Beach. The festival begins with New Orleans style jazz at the city's regular Sounds on Centre concert, Oct. 2, free; and a concert called Runnin' Wild, at historic Palace Saloon on Oct. 3, $20. On Oct 4. Jazz at the Park is a free community concert with 18-piece U.S. Navy Big Band SE, plus food and drinks offered by Sonny's Barbecue. Other festival activities include a Latin concert and dance Oct. 8, $25; Pre-concert Party and jazz concert on both Oct. 9 and 10, $40 each. Two separate Dixieland jazz brunches are scheduled Oct. 11, at Beech Street Grill, each $45. 904-504-4772. www.AmeliaIslandJazzFestival.com

Oct. 3: Sand Sculpting Classes, St. Augustine Beach. Come learn about the art, techniques and tools to make great sandcastles. In preparation for the City of St. Augustine Beach's 50th Birthday sand sculpting contest on November 7, there will be sand sculpting classes for kids of all ages the first Saturday each month through October. These family-fun instructional sessions, free and open to the public, take place on the beach in front of Ocean Trace. 904-501-1253. www.50thBeachBirthday.com

Oct. 3: Central Florida Harvest and Peanut Festival, Williston. A day of family fun with games, food, entertainment and more than 90 vendor booths. Peanut Industry Showcase displays a large assortement of peanuts and peanut products. Also includes live music, antique tractors and cars, dunking amusements and a reverse drawing raffle with a grand prize of $2,000. At Linear Park on Main Street. Free admission. 352-528-5552. www.florida-secrets.com/AnnualEvents/WCevents/WCSpotlight/CentralFloridaPeanutFestival.htm

Oct. 3: First Saturday Jam, Barberville. On the first Saturday each month visit the Pioneer Settlement for entertainment and fun for the entire family. 9 a.m to 5 p.m. There will be informal music jams, free workshops, food, and a barn-style dance at 3 p.m. 386-749-2959. www.pioneersettlement.org

Oct. 3: A Walk Through Time Quilt Show, Newberry. The Dudley Farm Traditional Craft group will feature home-made and antique quilts at the visitor center. Enjoy music and quilt displays and sales, and learn about this traditional American craft. At Dudley Farm Historic State Park. Admission $4. 352-472-1142. www.floridastateparks.org/dudleyfarm/Events.cfm

Oct. 8-10: Second Annual Fall Palatka Bluegrass Festival, Palatka. Three-day event featuring top names in bluegrass music and drawing an estimated audience of 1,000. At Rodeheaver Boys' Ranch. 706-864-7203. http://aandabluegrass.com/Festivals/FallPalatkaBluegrassFesti.html

Oct. 9-10: Oyster Spat Festival, St. George Island. Oyster spat is a baby oyster and this family festival highlights the county's proud seafood industry and beautiful beaches. Includes treasure hunt, onshore fishing tournament with cash prizes, kayak race, 5k race, parade, food court and live entertainment. Free. 850-653-9419. www.oysterspat.com

Oct. 9-10: Festa Italiana, Fort Walton Beach. Two fantastic days of authentic Italian cooking, 5-9 p.m. Oct. 9 and 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Oct. 10. No admission charge; food priced individually. On South Drive. 850-651-4008. www.destin-fwb.com/Activities/Events

Oct. 9-11: Seafood, Wine and Music Festival, Panama City Beach. A celebration of the wonderful array of local area seafood prepared by local chefs melded with local and area wines, entertainment and vendors with a special focus on families. The event is designed to reflect a true taste of the coast, a true toast to the coast, and some of the world's best entertainment. At Frank Brown Park. Gate prices vary but range from $15 (daytime only) to $25 per day. Parking is $5 per day. 800-722-3224. www.panamacitybeachfest.com

Oct. 9-11: Annual Greek Festival, St. Augustine. The Greek influence on the nation's oldest city is celebrated with music, food and dancing at this 12th annual event. Hosted by Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. At the Special Events Field on Castillo Drive downtown. Admission $2, under 16 free. 904-829-0504. www.stauggreekfest.com

Oct. 10: Fall Festival, High Springs. Join the crowd downtown around the sinkhole for the town's sixth annual Fall Festival. It will feature fine craft and art vendors, as well as music, live entertainment and fun activities for all ages. Free admission. 386-454-3120. www.highsprings.com

Oct. 10: By the Bayou Arts and Eats Festival, Niceville. The second annual By the Bayou Arts and Eats Festival will take place at St. Jude's Episcopal Church, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 850-678-7013. www.stjudes.us

Oct. 10: Artrageous Artwalk, Amelia Island. Held monthly on second Saturday, to open the doors of some of the island's incredible galleries, featuring photography, pottery, copper, stained glass, watercolor, acrylics and more. Participants can peruse more than a dozen galleries in downtown Fernandina Beach and at the Plantation Artists' Guild and Gallery located at Amelia Island Plantation. 800-226-3542. www.ameliaisland.com/art

Oct. 16-18: Boggy Bayou Mullet Festival, Niceville. This popular annual festival promises a great time for the entire family with big-name entertainment, quality fine art, crafts, exhibits, and a staggering array of food concessions. Performing on Friday night will be Chuck Wicks performs Friday night, Blake Shelton on Saturday night, and Billy Ray Cyrus will close out the festival. Held at the Mullet Festival Grounds, State Road 85N. Admission $10 age 12 and above, $9 advanced ticket sale, $25 for 3 advanced sale tickets, $8 each for 4 or more advanced sale tickets. 850-729-4008. www.mulletfestival.com

Oct. 16-18: Blast on the Bay Songwriter Festival, Port St. Joe. In the first installment of what is destined to become an annual event, the coastal town of Port St. Joe plays host to musicians and songwriters direct from the streets of Nashville. The inaugural performances will consist of seven musicians who collectively have written hundreds of hit songs, many of them shooting all the way to #1 on the charts. All shows are free and everyone is encouraged to come out and enjoy. 850- 653-9419. www.blastonthebay.com/

Oct. 16-18: Suwannee River Quilt Show and Sale, White Springs. Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park celebrates this event's 21st anniversary. More than 200 quilts of all sizes and shapes will be displayed throughout the park including the Stephen Foster Museum, the Memorial Carillon Tower and the park auditorium. Visitors can enjoy boutiques, demonstrations, lectures, quilting supply vendors, a food concessionaire and door prizes. Admission to Quilt Show is $3. 386-397-4331. www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster/Events.cfm

Oct. 17: Forgotten Coast Black Bear Festival, Carrabelle. One-day, free educational event that is fun for all ages. Highlights include live music and dance performances, Authors' Corner, presentations by bear experts, family activity pavilion, a variety of vendors and exhibits, and demonstrations on how humans can co-exist with bears. Guided field trips to Tate's Hell Forest are by bus and include a moderate hike to a site where biologists will provide participants with interactive lessons about bear biology, behavior and management. New this year is the Procession of the Species Parade, where members of participating boys and girls clubs wear paper mache masks they have created. 850-697-2585. 239-404-4137. www.anaturalescape.com/Area_Events.aspx

Oct. 17: Blues on the Lot, Apalachicola. Come out for a great time and enjoy great Blues bands from around the country. On Commerce Street between Avenues D and E. Free. 850-653-3550. www.apalachicolabay.org

Oct. 17-18: 40th Annual Cedar Key Seafood Festival, Cedar Key. This major event features great local seafood and well over 200 arts and crafts exhibits at City Park. There will be live musical entertainment at several places around town during the days and nights, and a parade on Saturday morning. In addition, an open house is scheduled at the lighthouse on Seahorse Key, the big island three miles to the west. Shuttle boats are available at City Marina. 352-543-5600. www.cedarkey.org/events.html

Oct. 18: Fall Festival, Alachua. More than 160 craft vendors feature everything from handmade quilts and carved wooden roses to temporary tattoos and unique jewelry. Local entertainers on two stages keep the crowd singing along all afternoon. Service organizations provide child-friendly free activities as they dispense educational and informational materials. Scarecrow Row decorates the streetlights with a festive fall atmosphere complete with a brisk scent of autumn. At Main Street downtown. Free. 352-514-1258. www.alachuabusiness.com/

Oct. 22-Nov. 1: Pensacola Interstate Fair, Pensacola. Top-name entertainment as well as exhibits and displays, rides, games and more. At Penscola Interstate Fairgrounds. 852-944-4500. Admission $10 adults, $5 children 4-11. www.pensacolafair.com/fairinfo.html

Oct. 23-25: Great American Cooter Festival, Inverness. Barbecue cook-off, bike rides, live entertainment, food and craft vendors, carnival rides, family entertainment, games, cooter races and more. Sunny Cooter and his friends visit local restaurants for Miss Cooter and Cooter Idol competitions. Winners are picked Friday and Saturday, during the Cooter Blast and Cooter Festival. And Cooterween, a Halloween spook-tacular on Sunday, is one of the biggest outdoor costume parties in this neck of the woods. In Liberty Park and Wallace Brooks Park. 352-726-2801. http://visitcitrus.com/eventpop.asp?EventID=768

Oct. 24: Songwriters and Songbirds Festival, Jacksonville. Tree Hill Nature Center and VI Productions present "From Tree Hill to Nashville - Songwriters and Songbirds Festival," an event rescheduled from June 6. It will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the facility's Joseph A. Strasser Amphitheater, and will be a day of music, workshops and live performances by the winners of the Songwriter's Contest and the winners of the Artist Contest. Successful Nashville producer Michael Knox will judge the winning festival entries. 904-724-4646. www.treehill.org

Oct. 24-25: 14th Annual Festival of the Arts, Destin. One of Northwest Florida's premier fine art shows, with more than 100 juried artists from around the United States competing for cash prizes. There will be strolling performers, a bistro food court, continuous entertainment, and children's hands-on art activities. At Henderson Beach State Park. Admission $3 adults, children 12 and under free. 850-650-2226. www.mattiekellyartsfoundation.org

Oct. 24-31: Crescent Beach Paint Out, St. Augustine. Each year this annual event gets more attention from artists who want to capture the seaside beauty of Crescent Beach, a small beach town on Anastasia Island about seven miles south of St. Augustine. The sand, the surf, shorebirds, shrimp boats – they're all here waiting to be captured by artists working in the October sun. This year's Paint Out features three-day workshops led by artists Romel de la Torre, Larry Moore, Steve Rogers, and Christophe Cardot. Completed works are juried for prizes and exhibited at various locations throughout the year. 904-471-5808. www.crescentbeachpaintout.com

Oct. 30-31: Great Southern Tailgate Cook Off, Fernandina Beach. This inaugural event is sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society, the world's largest organization of barbeque and grilling enthusiasts, which sanctions almost 300 barbeque contests throughout the United States. Cooking and preparation takes place on Oct. 30 amd the competition, judging and awards ceremony the next day. Approximately 30 teams, from shade tree cooks to semi-pro teams, are expected to compete. 904-277-0717. www.ameliaisland.com

Oct. 31-Nov. 1: Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks Art and Craft Festival, Tarpon Springs. Fine art, fine craft, food, music. On Dodecanese Boulevard. Free admission. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com