☀️ Good Morning, Pasco!
Happy Valentine's weekend! Whether you're planning a romantic date night, a family adventure, or just a peaceful day outdoors, Pasco County has you covered this week. The weather looks beautiful with highs in the mid-70s, and the biggest event of the season just kicked off: the Bay Area Renaissance Festival is finally here. Let's get into it.
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🎟️ 5+ Cool Things To Do This Weekend (Feb 12 - 15)
1) Bay Area Renaissance Festival: Opening Weekend (Dade City)
📍 12838 Auton Rd, Dade City
🗓️ Saturday, Feb 14 & Sunday, Feb 15, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
💲 Adults $26.95 / Children (5-12) $18.95 / Seniors (65+) $22.95 / Under 4 Free (plus tax). Free parking.
The 48th annual Bay Area Renaissance Festival opens this Valentine's weekend! Step into a 16th-century European village with 15 stages of live entertainment, full-contact jousting three times daily, over 100 artisan vendors, and delicious feast-worthy food. This opening weekend also features a mural competition and the special Ladies & Lords Shopping Day on Sunday ($20 includes admission, a drink, and a gift bag). Runs weekends through March 29.
2) Something Rotten! The Musical (New Port Richey)
📍 Richey Suncoast Theatre, 6237 Grand Blvd, New Port Richey
🗓️ Friday, Feb 13 & Saturday, Feb 14 at 7:00 PM / Sunday, Feb 15 at 2:00 PM
💲 General Admission from $27.50 / VIP Box (4 seats) $175 (plus tax)
This Tony Award-nominated musical comedy follows two brothers trying to out-write Shakespeare by inventing the world's first musical. Clever, funny, and full of catchy songs. A wonderful Valentine's date night or a fun Sunday matinee for the whole family. Opens this Friday at downtown NPR's beloved historic theatre.
3) ABBA Euphoria: Valentine's Day Concert (Wesley Chapel)
📍 Center for the Arts at Wesley Chapel, Wells Road, Wesley Chapel
🗓️ Saturday, Feb 14 at 7:00 PM
💲 $30 - $55
Sing your heart out to "Dancing Queen," "Mamma Mia," "Waterloo," and all the ABBA hits you love at this high-energy tribute show straight from Las Vegas. Complete with a dazzling on-screen media show, it's fun for all ages and a perfect Valentine's evening out.
4) Pioneer Date Night: Cast Iron Cooking Under the Stars (Dade City)
📍 Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Rd, Dade City
🗓️ Friday, Feb 13 at 6:00 PM
💲 Check museum website for pricing and registration
Cook dinner over a fire under the stars at this charming museum village. It's a unique Valentine's experience surrounded by old Florida history. This is a registration event and spots may be limited, so check the website ahead of time.
5) Live Music at Ukulele Brand's (Land O' Lakes)
📍 Ukulele Brands, Land O' Lakes
🗓️ Friday, Feb 13: Buzz Factor (7:30 - 10:30 PM) / Saturday, Feb 14: Fat Tractor (7:30 - 10:30 PM)
💲 Check venue for cover details
A relaxed, neighborhood spot with great live music both Friday and Saturday night. Whether you want a fun Valentine's vibe or just a laid-back evening out, this is a solid pick in the Lutz/Land O' Lakes area.
6) Skunk Ape's Revenge Trail Race (Dade City)
📍 Green Swamp West Tract, 13347 Ranch Road, Dade City
🗓️ Saturday, Feb 14 at 8:00 AM
💲 Registration required (check UltraSignUp)
Love the outdoors more than chocolates? This classic Florida trail race takes you through the Green Swamp on dirt roads, single-track Florida Trail paths, and fire berms. Choose from a 60K, 30K, or 30K Ruck. All paces welcome. There's even a pet food drive for a local shelter.
7) Live Music at Skybox Rooftop Bar (Wesley Chapel)
📍 Skybox Rooftop Bar, Wesley Chapel
🗓️ Friday, Feb 13 (Matt Capps)
💲 No cover (check venue)
Start the weekend with rooftop views and live music. Matt Capps is a local favorite who plays regularly around Wesley Chapel. Great way to kick off a Valentine's weekend.
➕ More Local Happenings
Pasco County Fair Advance Tickets on Sale: The 79th Annual Pasco County Fair opens Monday, Feb 16 in Dade City! Save up to $5 on ride wristbands when you buy online before midnight on Feb 15. Get Tickets →
Live Music at Pinchers (Wesley Chapel): Matt Capps plays Saturday, Feb 14. Great for a casual Valentine's dinner with music.
Richey Community Orchestra: Performing Italian favorites and pop hits including "My Funny Valentine" at the Center for the Arts at River Ridge. Check local listings for dates and times.
🌟 Spotlight Story of the Week
The Bay Area Renaissance Festival Returns to Dade City for Its 48th Season
The gates of Folkstone Village swing open this Saturday, February 14, and for the next seven weekends, Dade City transforms into a lively 16th-century European village filled with music, magic, and merriment.
What it is: The Bay Area Renaissance Festival is one of Florida's longest-running cultural traditions. The 2026 season features 15 stages of live entertainment, full-contact armored jousting (three shows daily at 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:30 PM), over 100 artisan vendors selling handcrafted goods, seven themed weekends, and plenty of hearty, feast-worthy food.
Why it matters: Now in its 48th year, the Ren Fest is a signature Pasco County event that draws visitors from all over the Tampa Bay area. It supports local artisans, performers, and the Dade City economy. There's truly nothing else like it in the region.
How to enjoy it: Plan for a full day. Arrive when gates open at 10:00 AM to catch the early shows and shop the artisan marketplace before it gets crowded. Don't miss the jousting tournaments. Kids love the Children's Realm area, and adults can enjoy mead tastings, pub crawls, and even brunch at the joust (specialty tickets required). Each weekend has a different theme, so multiple visits feel fresh.
Parking tips: Parking is free at the festival grounds at 12838 Auton Rd, Dade City. ADA and motorcycle parking are available. Let attendants know if you need accessible parking. No outside food or drinks are allowed (one factory-sealed 20 oz water bottle per person is OK). ATMs are on-site.
What to do nearby: After the festival, explore downtown Dade City's antique shops, restaurants, and boutiques along 7th Street. The Kumquat Growers Festival is coming up later in the season too, so start planning your next trip east.
🍴 Local Dining Pick
Cantina Viajero (Trinity)
📍 1338 Epiphany Way, N-103, Trinity, FL 34655
Looking for a fun Valentine's dinner? Cantina Viajero in Trinity serves up uniquely modern Mexican food inspired by the owners' travels across Mexico. Think carne asada with chimichurri, pescado rojo with jalapeno beurre blanc, and craft cocktails in a lively, rustic-industrial setting. It's colorful, flavorful, and a great date night spot. Reservations available through OpenTable.
💆♀️ Local Wellness Pick
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park (New Port Richey)
📍 10500 Wilderness Park Blvd, New Port Richey
Need a reset this weekend? Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offers over 8,000 acres of trails through pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and oak hammocks. It's perfect for walking, jogging, or bird watching. The park is free to enter and open daily from sunrise to sunset. Bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and enjoy one of Pasco's best-kept natural treasures. Dogs are welcome on leash.
💸 Pasco Deals & Discounts
Pasco County Fair Early Bird Ride Wristbands: Buy before midnight on Feb 15 and get unlimited ride wristbands for just $25 weekdays / $30 weekends (plus activation fee). Prices go up after that. Buy Now →
Bay Area Renaissance Festival: Active military, veterans, and first responders get $5 off gate admission with valid ID. Free parking for everyone. Ticket Info →
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park: Free admission, free parking, and over 8,000 acres to explore. A perfect no-cost family outing this weekend.
🧭 Local Tips & Guides
Weather: Expect highs in the mid-70s and lows in the upper 50s. Great weather for the Ren Fest and outdoor dining. Bring a light layer for evening events.
Valentine's dining: Many local restaurants will be busy Saturday night. Make reservations early or try a fun lunch date instead.
Ren Fest tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes (the grounds are natural/uneven). Bring cash for some vendors, though most accept cards. No outside food allowed. Arrive early for the best parking.
Kid-friendly idea: The Renaissance Festival's Children's Realm has games, activities, and kid-sized fun. The Family 4-Pack (2 adults + 2 kids) is available online.
Plan ahead: The Pasco County Fair opens Monday, Feb 16. It runs through Feb 22 at the Pasco County Fairgrounds in Dade City.
🗺️ Around Town (New Developments & Openings)
🏬 Isla Maritime Opens U.S. Headquarters in Port Richey
This marine services company, which worked on the MV Dali salvage operation and supported NOAA vessels, has purchased warehouse and office space in Port Richey to serve as its U.S. headquarters. Welcome to Pasco!
🏬 The Fulfillment Lab Relocates HQ to Lutz
This e-commerce logistics company moved from Tampa to the Sunlake Business Center off SR-54 in Lutz, investing over $2 million in new equipment. They've already expanded to 45,000 square feet and continue to grow.
🍷 Vino and Vibes Coming to Downtown New Port Richey
A new wine and entertainment venue is preparing to open at 6317 Adams St in downtown New Port Richey, with a soft opening planned for February 27.
⚠️ Opening date subject to change. Verify before visiting.
🍱 5PM Moments: Asian Fusion Coming to New Port Richey
A new takeout-focused Asian fusion bento concept is targeting a March opening in New Port Richey. Stay tuned for more details.
🏡 Real Estate Corner
Starter Home (≤ $350k) — Zephyrhills
5942 17th St, Zephyrhills, FL 33542
$285,000 · 3 bed / 2 bath · 2,320 sqft
A charming home built in 1910 with all the character you'd expect, but completely refreshed in 2025. Located in Zephyrhills' historic district with a brand new kitchen featuring shaker cabinets and quartz countertops, new roof, and fresh paint inside and out. Seller offering $7,500 at closing for new appliances.
Move-Up Home ($400k - $650k) — Trinity
10443 Peppergrass Ct, Trinity, FL 34655
$479,500 · 4 bed + bonus room / 3 bath · 2,147 sqft
This Fox Wood pool home has it all: remodeled kitchen with granite countertops, screened solar-heated pool with a resurfaced deck, two-car garage, and a huge backyard. The master suite is on the first floor, and there's a bonus room upstairs that works as an office, playroom, or fifth bedroom. Gated community with parks, playgrounds, and A-rated schools.
Wow Home (Luxury / Waterfront) — Gulf Harbors
6009 Bayway Ct, New Port Richey, FL 34652
$895,000 · 4 bed / 3 bath · 3,228 sqft
Stunning waterfront home on a quiet cul-de-sac in Gulf Harbors Sea Forest with a grand two-story entrance and stone accent fireplace wall. Features 145 feet of water frontage with a dock and boat lift, just a 15-minute ride to the Gulf islands. Balconies front and back, hot tub overlooking the water, and no house behind you. Community amenities include a clubhouse, pool, boat ramp, tennis courts, and optional private beach access.
🎉 Pasco Trivia
Did you know? The Bay Area Renaissance Festival has been running for 48 years, making it one of the longest-running Renaissance festivals in the entire state of Florida. Its permanent festival grounds in Dade City sit on Auton Road, just a short drive from downtown. Over the years, the festival has hosted thousands of jousting matches, and their full-contact armored jousting shows happen three times daily, every single weekend of the season.
💌 That's a Wrap!
Happy Valentine's weekend, Pasco! Whether you're jousting at the Ren Fest, catching a show at Richey Suncoast, or sharing a quiet dinner on the river, we hope it's a good one.
Got a favorite local spot? A hidden gem we should feature? Hit reply and let us know. We love hearing from you.
Coming next week: The 79th Annual Pasco County Fair is here! We'll have your full guide: best days to go, how to save on tickets, what to eat first, and tips for families. Plus, more weekend picks from across the county.
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