If there's one thing I've learned about making weekend plans in Florida, it's that the weather doesn't always cooperate.
Last weekend was one of those weekends.
I had my eye on the Fall Fest at Fellowship Baptist Church in Lithia. It seemed like a fun way to spend the day with the family, enjoy a little fall weather (or at least pretend we have fall weather here in Florida), and get into the seasonal spirit.
But the rain had other plans.
I was especially disappointed because we had already missed the Fall Fest at Armature Works the previous weekend because of the rain. Two fall festivals, two rain checks. Apparently, Mother Nature had a different itinerary for us!
Fortunately, the weekend wasn't a total washout.
A Little Rain Didn't Ruin Everything
Later in the day, the skies finally cleared, just in time for the Trunk-or-Treat event at Calvary Church.
And I'm so glad they did!
The event had a great turnout, and it was nice to finally get out and enjoy some Halloween fun after watching our earlier plans fall apart.
Sometimes those unexpected changes end up becoming part of the memories, too. The kids don't necessarily care how many times you've checked the forecast or rearranged the schedule. They're just happy when they finally get to go somewhere fun.
And as a parent, sometimes that's enough.
So, What's the Plan for This Weekend?
That's the question I'm still trying to answer!
I haven't decided exactly what we'll do for October 23–25, but I've been looking through the options, and there are some really good ones happening around Tampa Bay.
With Halloween getting closer, there are plenty of opportunities to get another wear out of those costumes, explore a fall festival, collect some candy, or simply spend the afternoon together.
A few events have definitely caught my attention.
🎃 Armature Works Fall Fest — Another Chance!
Saturday, October 24 & Sunday, October 25 | Tampa
This one is still on my radar, especially after our previous plans were rained out.
There's a fall market, live music, pumpkin patch photo opportunities, and activities for the kids. General admission is free, while the Kid Zone, rides, food, and other activities have separate costs.
Maybe the third time will be the charm!
Explore Armature Works Fall Fest
🍬 Riverwalk Trick-or-Treat — A Halloween Evening Downtown
Saturday, October 24 | 4–8:30 PM | Downtown Tampa
This is another option I'm considering. A Halloween outing along the Riverwalk sounds like a fun way to enjoy the evening, especially with costumes, trick-or-treating, and a movie in the park.
It's free to attend, which makes it an appealing option for families trying to enjoy the season without spending a fortune.
See the Riverwalk Trick-or-Treat Details
🍂 Temple Terrace Fall Festival — Some Evening Fall Fun
Saturday, October 24 | 6–9 PM | Temple Terrace
Another fall festival is on the calendar, and I'm keeping it in consideration. Sometimes an evening event is the better choice, especially when you don't want to commit your whole Saturday.
I'm hoping the weather cooperates with everyone planning outdoor festivities this weekend.
🎃 A Sunday Fall Festival Option
Sunday, October 25 | 4–6 PM | Bay Hope Church
If Saturday doesn't work out, there's still Sunday! Bay Hope Church has a free fall festival scheduled, which gives us another opportunity to enjoy some family-friendly seasonal fun.
I always appreciate having a backup option, especially this time of year.
The Weekend Isn't Planned Yet, and That's Okay
One thing I enjoy about putting together the OSC Weekend Shortlist is discovering how much is happening in our communities.
There are so many local events, small businesses, churches, markets, and organizations creating experiences for families to enjoy. Some are big productions, and others are simple community gatherings that turn into wonderful afternoons.
And sometimes the hardest part isn't finding something to do. It's deciding which one to choose.
I'm still figuring out where we'll end up this weekend. Maybe we'll finally make it to Armature Works. Maybe we'll try somewhere completely different. Or maybe we'll make a last-minute decision based on the weather.
Either way, I'm looking forward to making a few more memories.
And if you're still trying to decide what to do this weekend, I hope this week's shortlist gives you a little inspiration, too.
Here's to fewer rain checks, more family adventures, and making the most of the weekend ahead!
See you around the Circle!
Our Social Circle
Have a local event or family-friendly experience you think deserves a spot on an upcoming OSC Weekend Shortlist? I'd love to hear about it. Connect with us and help more families discover what's happening in our community.
