Downtown Crowd, September 2025

Downtown Crowd

LSHOUT OUT

Celebrating the Wins That Lift Us All

‘City

LinkedIn®

on the Rise’

highlights area for booming job market, talent growth, and quality of life

inkedIn® has spotlighted Pensacola as one of its inaugural ‘Cities on the Rise’ — a curated list highlighting the 25 mid-sized U.S. metropolitan areas experiencing exceptional growth in hiring, talent migration, and job postings.

What’s Driving the Momentum?

LinkedIn’s ranking examines year-over-year percentage increases across three key metrics: hiring activity (defined by the number of people adding new positions to their profiles), job-posting volume, and the net influx of professionals relocating to the area.

Pensacola stood out in all categories, showcasing strength in several pivotal industries, including healthcare, professional services, and government administration — sectors that form the backbone of the city’s labor market.

Why Pensacola?

The region’s focus on supporting local businesses, helping startup companies, and creating a vibrant downtown has helped keep talent at home, attract new talent, and build a national reputation as a great place to live, work, and play.

Top employers: Navy Federal Credit Union, the U.S. Navy, and the University of West Florida are among the city’s largest employers by volume.

What’s Next?

Pensacola’s growth as a thriving Gulf Coast economic hub:

Sustained Growth: Continue supporting local businesses, startups, and entrepre neurs to foster local growth and economic resilience.

Workforce Development:

Prioritize building a skilled, reliable work force to meet the demands of expanding industries.

Safe, Accessible Infrastructure: Invest in walkable, safe infrastructure to enhance quality of life and accessibility for residents and visitors.

Project Follow-Through:

Ensure that long-announced projects are actually completed:

• New apartment and hotel complexes.

• High-profile opportunities like American Magic.

• Deliver results that strengthen Pensacola’s reputation.

Methodology Note:

LinkedIn’s ‘Cities on the Rise’ ranking draws on anonymized data from March 1, 2023 to February 1, 2025.

5Eleven • Blue Wahoos • Bodacious Shops • Bodacious Bookstore Bodacious Brew Thru •

•

• Studer Properties Submit your shout out: info@quintstuder.com

DOWNTOWN CROWD | SEPTEMBER 2025

Editor’s Letter

Morgan Cole, Editor

After what felt like an endless stretch of heatwaves, summer is finally beginning to loosen its grip, and that first hint of fall is in the air—the kind that makes you want to reach for a sweater (even if it’s still a little too early). It’s that in-between moment we wait for all year—the turning point when iced drinks give way to warm mugs, and sun-soaked adventures shift into crisp, breezy days perfect for new kinds of outdoor fun.

In this issue, we’re diving into everything we love about fall in Pensacola—from the beloved Pensacola Seafood Festival to lively Oktoberfest celebrations happening in venues across the city. There’s no shortage of festive events to help you get into the spirit of the season.

This month, we’ve rounded up details on all of the upcoming festivals and events taking place across the city throughout the month of September. If you’re looking to bring in the fall season with a more laid back activity, we’ve got you covered! In this issue, we’ve also brought you details on some of the top places to camp in the Pensacola area. Whether you’re looking to explore a new campground or embarking on your very first camping adventure, these local camping spots offer a little something for everyone. Happy camping!

All this, plus the scoop on the highly anticipated opening of the new Bistrology restaurant in downtown Pensacola, details on First City Art Center’s 19th Annual Pumpkin Patch and more.

As always, we hope you enjoy the read and until next time, Cheers!

Three Decades. One Family. A Journey of Heartache and Forgiveness.

Madeline Mitchell is a famed theatre actress at the peak of her career. However, her illustrious life on the stage pales in comparison to the drama behind the scenes with her two adult children, Charlie and Bea. Set against the backdrop of the AIDS crisis, Three Decembers explores themes of family secrets, love, loss, and the challenges of connection.

Three Decembers is a modern, chamber opera presented in English. Lasting 90 minutes, this show features Pensacola Opera family Kara Shay Thomson and two of our 2025-26 Jan Miller Studio Artists, conducted by Music Director Cody Martin.

Three Decembers

September 19 + 21, 2025

UWF Center for Fine and Performing Arts

Tickets: $30; Students: $15

TICKETS

5 Questions with Creatives

Cameron

Dykzeul,

owner of Saturday Sun

Cameron Dykzeul is a relief print artist and the owner of Saturday Sun, under which he sells his hand-printed shirts, prints and more. Relief printing involves carving an image into a block, inking the raised surface and transferring the image to paper or fabric. Inspired by nature, his prints typically depict various plants and animals.

Dykzeul has quickly become a regular vendor at art markets and events throughout Pensacola. You can often find him set up at Palafox Market South, Gallery Night and other seasonal markets throughout the year. You can also find his work at Jitterbug Beverage Co., the Apple Market and at Nolita’s Parlor & Eatery.

To check out more of Dykzeul’s work, request a commission and view his upcoming market schedule, visit @saturday.sun.art on Instagram. To shop available pieces, visit saturdaysunart.com.

Can you tell me a bit about yourself and your professional background?

I grew up in California and moved to attend college at Oregon State University. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business entrepreneurship and a minor in environmental science. It has been a dream of mine to start my own business and operate it as sustainably as possible. After graduating, I worked at prAna and Columbia Sportswear in consumer insights and global merchandising. I moved to Pensacola about two years ago to join my boyfriend, who is completing his master’s degree at UWF. After moving, I continued working remotely for Columbia while working on my art on the side. I established Saturday Sun in February 2024, and set up a booth at my first art market in June 2024. In October, I decided to take the leap and go full-time with my art, and it has been the best decision I’ve ever made.

How did you become interested in creating?

I come from a creative family and have always been surrounded by art and encouraged to explore creatively. My parents are both graphic designers. I worked with them to create my logo and branding for Saturday Sun. I’ve always enjoyed creating art to some degree, but printmaking has been the first medium to truly stick with me. When I picked up a starter kit of block printing tools a little less than two years ago as a hobby, I had no idea what it would lead to.

What inspires or influences your work?

Much of my inspiration comes from the environment. I’ve always had a massive love for nature and our national and state parks. I recently started a series of national

@saturday.sun.art

saturdaysunart.com

parks prints, donating a portion of the proceeds to the National Parks Foundation. It is important for my art to be a clear reflection of my point of view and values. My past travel experiences also influence my art. It’s a fun way for me to revisit memories as I create new work. One of my more recent collections of carvings consists of four Swedish folk art-inspired animal prints, which took me back to the semester I spent in Sweden.

What types of pieces do you create?

Hand-printed t-shirts are my most popular creation. These pieces are my favorite to make because they are truly one-of-a-kind. Other than clothing, I also print on paper. I like to rotate other items in my product assortment, such as bookmarks, stickers, mini prints, fabric patches and bandannas. It keeps it interesting when I change up my booth regularly.

Can you take me through your creative process and describe what goes into creating one of your pieces?

I carve my relief prints using linoleum or rubber blocks. Recently, I have been embellishing my prints using watercolors and stamping with color gradients—including a special rainbow edition for Pride. That being said, I will always focus a lot of my work around the intense contrast you can only get from black ink and well-placed negative space.

I keep a running list of project ideas. When starting a new project, I usually pick the subject matter that speaks to me the most at that moment. I then start a rough sketch and transfer my drawing onto the carving block. I always sharpen my carving gouges before starting to ensure my lines come out crisp. Then, I am ready to start carving. The carving stage is my favorite part of the whole process because it’s where my vision for the piece takes shape.

By Nicole Willis

Once it looks like I’ve carved away everything I intended to, it’s time for a test pressing. I give the block a thin coating of ink and lay the paper on top. I then burnish it, either by hand using a baren or with my tabletop press. Once evenly pressed, the print is pulled off the block, revealing the result of many hours of work. At this point, either the carving is finished and ready to use, or I will make a few final tweaks based on the test print. There are quicker methods of creating prints, but the slow, intentional nature of the process is what I love so much about it.

Art, Eats & Autumn Beats

Local Festivals & Events

by Morgan Cole

As the outdoor temperature begins to cool, the city heats up with a full lineup of vibrant festivals and fall events . From the tasty bites at the Pensacola Seafood Festival to the Gulfside tunes of the annual Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival, the streets of downtown Pensacola are bustling with fall fun for everyone. Mark your calendars for some or all of these upcoming fall festivals and events returning to Pensacola this month.

29th Annual Emerald Coast Beer Fest

• When: September 5 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm

• Where: Seville Quarter | 130 E. Government St.

Organized by the Escambia Bay Homebrewers, the Emerald Coast Beer Festival is the largest and longest-running craft beer event in Northwest Florida. Held annually at Seville Quarter in downtown Pensacola, the festival offers attendees the chance to sample more than 200 beers from 50 craft breweries and 10+ homebrew clubs from across the region and beyond. The event will also feature a variety of food vendors, mead and craft spirit tastings, live music performances and more. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased in advance for $35 from local ticket outlets listed on the Emerald Coast Beer Fest website. A limited number of VIP tickets are also available, which can be purchased in advance for $75 through an Escambia Bay Homebrewers club member. A souvenir tasting glass is included with all ticket purchases. For tickets and complete event details, visit emeraldcoastbeerfest.com.

9th Annual Gulf Coast Jazz Festival

• When: September 19 to 21

• Where: Community Maritime Park | 301 W. Main St.

The 9th Annual Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Edition will be held at the Community Maritime Park from September 19 through 21. This three-day jazz extravaganza will feature non-stop jazz performances by artists like Peter White, Spyro Gyra, Kirk Whalum, Gerald Albright, Jonathan Butler, Najee, Jeff Lorber, Mindi Abair, Down to the Bone, Alex Bugnon and more. Guests are invited to bring coolers, lawn chairs and umbrellas to kick back and enjoy the show. Doors open at 1 pm each day, so come early, find your spot and soak in the soulful sounds of talented jazz artists as they perform in the heart of downtown Pensacola. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or just looking for a laid-back weekend, this festival is not to be missed. General admission tickets range from $100 to $170 and can be purchased online through ticketmaster.com. For complete event details, including the full lineup of scheduled performances, visit gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.com.

Pensacola Seafood Festival

• When: September 26 to 28

• Where: Seville Square & Bartram Park | Downtown Pensacola

Savor delicious seafood, enjoy live music by the bay all weekend and immerse yourself in historic downtown Pensacola at the 48th Annual Pensacola Seafood Festival. This annual event has grown to become one of the largest arts and crafts fairs along the Gulf Coast, with more than 150 arts and crafts vendors from all parts of the country offering a variety of unique items for sale, including handmade jewelry, pottery and ceramics, clothing, art, soaps and candles, home decor and more. Attendees will have the chance to enjoy tasty cuisines from multiple food trucks and vendors set up throughout the festival. The Pensacola Seafood Festival is a familyfriendly event, and there is no cost to attend.

This year’s festival will run from 11 am to 11 pm on Friday. September 26, from 10 am to 11 pm on Saturday, September 27 and from 11 am to 5 pm on Sunday, September 28. For event details, including the full festival lineup, visit pensacolaseafoodfestival.com.

Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival

• When: September 30 to October 12

• Where: Pensacola Beach & Downtown Pensacola (multiple venues)

Experience the vibrant melodies of original music brought to life by the very creators of the tunes during the Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival. Featuring performances at nearly two dozen beachside bars, restaurants and venues on Pensacola Beach and throughout downtown Pensacola, the Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival has evolved to become a cherished annual event. The festival features live performances by 130 songwriters from across the globe from a variety of genres. Throughout the two-week festival, Grammy Award-winning artists, hit songwriters and up-and-coming national artists will host live performances of their original songs as they share the stories behind them. This year’s festival lineup is also jam-packed with a variety of special events, with most performances free and open to the public. For complete event details, including the complete line-up of scheduled performances and events, visit pensacolabeachsongfest.com.

Check out the Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival Facebook page for updates and special announcements leading up to this year’s event.

Oktoberfest 2025

You don’t need a plane ticket to Munich to get a taste of Oktoberfest— Pensacola brings the celebration home with its own local flair. Throughout the city, bars, breweries and venues are putting their own spin on the traditional Bavarian festival, serving up frothy German brews, bratwurst, pretzels, fun games and plenty of polka. So, grab a stein and a giant pretzel and celebrate right here in Pensacola at these local Oktoberfest events.

Coastal County Oktoberfest

• When: September 5 to 7

• Where: Coastal County Brewing Company | 3041 East Olive Rd.

Dust off your dirndls, get ready to fire up the bratwursts and raise a stein high in the sky at Pensacola’s largest Oktoberfest celebration. Join Coastal County Brewing for a weekend packed with tradition, excitement and the best Bavarian brews this side of Munich. This annual celebration includes heaps of festive attire, authentic German eats, fun games, competitions and this area’s biggest release of family-brewed German-style beers. Head out to Coastal County at 11 am on September 5 and kick off the weekend with the chance to nab one of their collectible steins. There is no cost to enter, and parking is free. For complete details, visit coastalcountybrewing.com and check out @CoastalCounty on Facebook.

8th Annual Oktoberfest Celebration at Gary’s

• When: September 13 at 2 pm

• Where: Gary’s Brewery & Biergarten | 208 Newman Ave.

Celebrate Oktoberfest at Gary’s Brewery & Biergarten on September 13 at 2 pm with live music, games, German-style foods and tons of great beer. For more event details, including updates on tickets and this year’s vendors, visit garysbrewery.com and check out @GarysBrew on Facebook.

Oddtoberfest @ Odd Colony

• When: September 20 from 12 to 8 pm

• Where: Odd Colonly Brewing Co. | 270 N. Palafox St.

Join Odd Colony Brewing Co. for its ode to the traditional German fall festival of lager slugging, pretzel eating and stein hoisting! This annual Oddtoberfest shindig is sure to give you some fall spirit with an evening of speciallybrewed German beers, authentic German food and pretzels, fun contests, games with prizes and more. Attendees will have a chance to compete in a series of contests and games during the event, including men and women’s stein hoisting competitions, stein racing, pretzel eating contests and more. Individuals must be 21 and older to participate in the competitions. Admission is free. For more information, visit oddcolony.com and check out @OddColony on Facebook.

The Perfect Oktoberfest

• When: September 20

• Where: Perfect Plain Brewery | 50 E. Garden St.

Perfect Plain will be celebrating Oktoberfest all day long with special German lager releases, fun contests, games, German fare and more. Stay tuned for more information. Complete event details coming soon! Visit perfectplain.com, and follow @PerfectPlainBrewingCo on Facebook for updates on this year’s Oktoberfest celebration.

O’Riley’s Oktoberfest Stein Holding Competition

• When: October 4

• Where: O’Riley’s Irish Pub Downtown | 321 S. Palafox St.

Stop by O’Riley’s Irish Pub Downtown on Saturday, October 4 for their annual Oktoberfest Stein Holding Competition. Show off your skills by holding out a hoisting mug for as long as possible. A prize will be awarded to the person who can hold their stein the longest. O’Riley’s will also run specials on Oktoberfest products starting at 7 pm on September 21 and October 5. For more information, visit orileyspub.com and follow @OrileysIrishPub on Facebook.

5th Annual Oktoberfest at Alga

• When: October 4

• Where: Alga Beer Co. | 2435 N. 12th Ave.

Head over to Alga on October 4 for their 5th Annual Oktoberfest celebration featuring more than 20 breweries, local food trucks, live music, stein hoisting competitions and more. Breweries from across Florida and beyond will join in the celebration of German beer, food and good times.

Tickets go on sale September 1 at 11 am. For tickets and information, visit algabeerco.com and follow @AlgaBeerCo on Facebook and Instagram.

Blending Culture & Culinary Creativity

Bistrology Debuts New Location in Downtown Pensacola

By Nicole Willis

Bistrology has officially opened its doors in downtown Pensacola, bringing towering pancake stacks, expertly crafted lattes, floral- garnished drinks and a vibrant brunch experience for local foodies.

Located in the former Secret Sagittarius Bierwerks & Scratch Kitchen (formerly Big Top Brewing Company), Bistrology is a breakfast and brunch spot serving up specialty coffee, craft cocktails and bold American comfort food with Spanish, Columbian and European influences.

Co-owned by Jonathan Gallen and Henry Guerrero, Bistrology’s first location opened in July 2023 in Miramar Beach and quickly became a popular brunch destination amongst locals and tourists alike. The restaurant’s modern aesthetic, unique flavors and Instagrammable dishes generated quite a buzz on social media.

After seeing the success of the flagship restaurant, Bistrology owners Jonathan Gallen and Henry Guerrero began looking to expand the business along the Gulf Coast. The downtown location has been in the works since late 2023, and its doors finally opened to the public on August 22.

Located at 21 W. Romana St., the downtown Bistrology serves as the restaurant’s second location. The building has been remodeled and transformed into a luxurious modern space, featuring earth-tones, natural textures, exposed brick and a gorgeous marble bar top.

Bistrology’s food and beverage menu matches the space’s sophisticated vibe, featuring visually stunning dishes, coffees and cocktails. From elevated breakfast favorites like stuffed croissants and eggs benedict to classic lunch bites like sandwiches and burgers, Bistrology is serving up dishes that are as delicious as they are beautiful.

When creating the menu, Gallen and Guerrero were inspired by the flavors and dishes of their Spanish and Colombian cultures. The Peruvian Ceviche—avocado with shrimp, onions and peppers served with fried plantains—and the Lomo Saltado—a flavorful beef and veggie stirfry—are two popular Spanish-inspired dishes.

The owners’ Spanish and Columbian influences are also evident in their coffee beverages. Bistrology sources its coffee beans from farms in Colombia, Brazil, Guatemala and Honduras.

Bistrology baristas will be pouring up drinks that are not just your average cup of joe. The coffee menu features drinks made with a variety of brewing methods, including Japanese siphon, French press and espresso.

The restaurant also offers a variety of signature lattes, including the popular Nutella Signature, which includes espresso and milk, with a garnish of Nutella, Oreo cookies and whipped cream. The coffee

menu also features less sweet options, including nitro cold brew, matcha lattes and all the classic espresso-based drinks.

Apart from coffee, Bistrology also serves up homemade sodas, smoothies, fresh juices and more. Several Latin-American sodas will also be available, including Mexican Coca-Cola and Fanta, Pony Malta, Colombiana and more.

For those who want to sip on something stronger, Bistrology offers a full bar with signature brunch cocktails, including mimosas. The cocktails are crafted with house infusions and handmade syrups, giving each cocktail a unique flavor. Like every menu item at Bistrology, the cocktails are beautifully garnished, making for a picture-perfect presentation.

With its lively atmosphere, culinary creativity, and trendy aesthetic, Bistrology is on track to become a favorite brunch spot in downtown Pensacola. Bistrology is open Monday through Friday from 7 am to 3 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 7 am to 8 pm.

For location details, menus and more information, visit bistrology.restaurant. To keep up to date on Bistrology’s delicious creations, follow @bistrology.restaurant on Instagram and @bistrology on TikTok.

CAMP the COAST

By Morgan Cole

As the cool autumn air begins to settle in, Northwest Florida provides the ideal backdrop for fall camping adventures. Thankfully, our area is home to an abundance of campgrounds that offer a unique mix of camping experiences.

From the world’s purest sandy-bottom river at Blackwater River State Forest to the unique mix of history and waterfront camping at Fort Pickens, there are many incredible camping spots right here in our own backyard. Activities range from hiking, zip-lining and bird watching to fishing and kayaking, offering a little something for all types of campers.

Although most local campgrounds offer both RV and semi-primitive camping options, there’s no better way to connect with the great outdoors than the experience of camping in a tent. Whether you’re looking to explore a new campground or embarking on your very first camping adventure, here are some of the best tent and primitive camping spots in the Pensacola area. Happy camping!

Blackwater River State Park Campground

7720 Deaton Bridge Rd. | Holt, FL

Situated amongst the 590-acre Blackwater River State Forest, this campground is one of the largest in the area. Blackwater River State Park Campground offers 30 tent or RV sites with electricity, water and sewer connections. All campsites also have a picnic table, fire pit and barbeque grill. The campground is situated within a short walk from Blackwater River, providing ample opportunities for fishing, swimming and other water activities. There are also plenty of hiking trails and geocaching for the entire family to enjoy. The Chain of Lakes Nature Trail is a 1.75 mile loop and the Juniper Lake Trail is a 0.5-mile trail for all interested hikers. Other activities include wildlife viewing and picnicking. Well-behaved pets are allowed and must be on a six-foot leash. Reservation fees are $20 per night (plus tax). For information and reservations, visit reserve.floridastateparks.org or call

Bear Lake Campground

11650 Munson Hwy. | Milton, FL

Bear Lake Campground hosts 31 RV or tent campsites and eight tent-only sites. Located next to Bear Lake, which covers around 107 acres, Bear Lake Campground offers a variety of onsite amenities, including electricity hookups (30 and 50 amp), water (potable), a dump station, a group dining hall with kitchen (available by reservation only), restrooms with showers, boat ramps and a fishing pier. Recreational activities include fishing, boating (electric motors only), hiking, canoeing, mountain biking trail (6-miles), picnicking, bird watching, wildlife viewing and more. Pets are allowed (leashes required). Alcohol is prohibited. Reservation fees are $13.39 per night for tent-only sites and $22.32 per night for RV or tent sites. For more information and reservations, visit floridastateforests.reserveamerica.com or call (877) 879-3859.

Bear Lake East Primitive Group Campsite

Located at the end of S159, off Hurricane Lake Road

If you’re looking for a fun group camping experience, this lakefront site is the perfect hidden gem. Bear Lake’s primitive group campsite is situated within the main recreation area, just across the lake from the main campground. The campsite can accommodate up to 25 people and up to eight vehicles. A single outhouse-style restroom (without running water) is available at the site, but there is no power or running water. Pets are allowed (leashes required). Alcohol is prohibited. Reservations are required, and fees are $17.86 per night. For more information and to reserve the campsite, visit floridastateforests. reserveamerica.com or call (877) 879-3859.

Hurricane Lake South Campground

7760 Hurricane Lake South Entrance Rd. | Baker, FL

The Hurricane Lake South Campground offers 18 tent-only (primitive) campsites. The campground is located on the south side of the manmade Hurricane Lake, which spans around 318 acres. Amenities include nearby water faucets (potable), a dump station, restrooms and a boat ramp connected to a 318-acre fishing lake. Recreational activities include fishing, boating, picnicking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, nature study and more. Swimming in the lake is prohibited due to the presence of alligators. Pets are allowed (leashes required). Reservations are required, and fees are $13.27 per night. For more information and reservations, visit floridastateforests.reserveamerica.com or call (877) 879-3859.

Hurricane Lake North Campground

482 North Hurricane Lake Rd. | Baker, FL

Located on the north side of Hurricane Lake, this campground hosts 17 RV or tent sites equipped with electric hookups and potable water, a dump station, fishing dock, boat ramp, restrooms and showers. Recreational activities include fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, nature study and photography. Swimming in the lake is prohibited due to the presence of alligators. Pets are allowed (leashes required). Reservations are required, and fees are $22.12 per night. For more information and reservations, visit floridastateforests.reserveamerica.com or call (877) 879-3859.

Krul Campground

11650 Munson Highway | Milton, FL

Situated on a 6.5-acre lake within the Krul Recreation Area, Krul Campground offers 43 RV or tent sites with 30 and 50-amp power hookups. Campsite amenities include electricity and water (potable), a dump station, restrooms, showers, a swimming dock and a pier. Recreational activities include swimming, picnicking, hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, nature study and more. Don’t miss the Sweetwater Hiking Trail that starts at the Krul parking lot and runs 1.3 miles over to Bear Lake. The first half-mile of the trail is a handicapped accessible boardwalk with a suspension bridge that runs over Sweetwater Creek. A gristmill is also located along the boardwalk. Pets are not permitted. Reservations are required, and fees are $22.32 per night. For information and reservations, visit floridastateforests.reserveamerica.com or call (877) 879-3859.

Karick Lake North Campground

North Karick Lake Road | Baker, FL

Situated on the north side of the 65-acre Karick Lake, this campground hosts 15 RV or tent sites with 30-amp power hookups. Campsite amenities include electricity and water (potable) for recreational vehicles or tents, dump station, restrooms and showers, boat ramp and pier. The campground offers an abundance of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, canoeing, picnicking, hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, nature study and photography. You should avoid swimming in the lake due to the presence of alligators. Pets are allowed (leashes required). Reservation fees start at $22.12 per night. For more information and reservations, visit floridastateforests.reserveamerica.com or call (877) 879-3859.

Karick Lake South Campground

Karick Lake Lower Road | Baker, FL

Karick Lake South hosts 14 RV or tent sites with 30 and 50-amp power hookups. Campsite amenities include electricity and water (potable), a dump station, restrooms, showers, a boat ramp and a pier. Recreational activities include fishing, boating, canoeing, picnicking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, nature study and photography. You should avoid swimming in the lake due to the presence of alligators. Pets are allowed (leashes required). Reservations are required, and fees are $22.12 per night. For more information and reservations, visit floridastateforests.reserveamerica.com or call (877) 879-3859.

Coldwater Equestrian Campground

8049 Horse Shoe Loop Rd. | Milton, FL

Located within the Coldwater Recreation Area in the Blackwater River State Forest, the Coldwater Equestrian Campground offers 56 campsites equipped with water and 30 and 50-amp electric hooks for RVs or tents. The campground also offers 60 barn stalls, three corrals for horses, hunting dog kennels and 58 covered paddocks. Campground amenities include restrooms and showers, a dump station, equestrian trails and a dining pavilion (available by reservation). Recreational opportunities include horseback riding, canoeing, swimming, picnicking, bird watching, nature study, wildlife viewing and photography. There is a sandbar along the creek for campers and horse riders and 55 miles of horse trails. Pets are allowed (leashes required). Reservation fees start at $22.12 per night. For information and reservations, visit floridastateforests.reserveamerica.com or call (850) 957-6161.

Fort Pickens Campground

1400 Fort Pickens Rd. | Pensacola Beach

Situated on Santa Rosa Island between the Gulf and Pensacola Bay, the Fort Pickens Campground hosts 137 family sites with electricity (20, 30 and 50 amp) and water hookups, as well as 40 tent-only (primitive) sites with no electricity. The campground also offers one tent-only group site with water hookups, but no electricity. Campground amenities include modern restrooms, heated showers, drinking water, laundry facilities and a dump station. A fishing pier is located within a short distance from the Fort, which can be used by visitors without a Florida fishing license. Hiking trails through the sand dunes provide beautiful views and hours of exploration. Other recreational activities include touring historic Fort Pickens, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, paddle boarding and surfing, fishing, hiking, sand-castle building, boating, kayaking, wildlife viewing and more. Pets are allowed at the campground, but not on any beaches or inside any of the facilities. Reservation fees are $40 per night for electric sites and $26 for tent-only sites (without electricity). Group campsite rates are $20 per person for groups of 10-19, and $30 per person for groups of 20 or more. For information and reservations, visit recreation.gov or call (850) 934-2622.

Adventures Unlimited Outdoor Center

8974 Tomahawk Landing Rd. | Milton, FL

Located within the Blackwater River State Forest, Adventures Unlimited Outdoor Center offers six tent-only sites with water and electric hookups (30 amp), four pull-through RV sites and four large RV campsites with water and electric hookups (30 and 50 amp). Adventures Unlimited also offers one large group campsite for groups of 20 or more with water and 30 amp electric hookups. All campsites have a picnic table and fire ring. Recreational activities include canoeing, kayaking, tubing and zip-lining, stand-up paddleboarding, wildlife viewing, hiking and more. No alcohol is allowed in the campground. Pets are allowed (in designated camp sites), and leashes are required. Only one tent per campsite is permitted. Reservation fees are $30 per night for tent-only sites, $40 per night for pull-through RV sites and $50 for large RV sites. Reservations for the group site start at $100 per night. For reservations, visit adventuresunlimited.com/ florida-camping or call (850) 623-6197.

Lake Stone Campground

801 W. State Road 4 | Century, FL

Lake Stone Campground sits on the shores of a 130-acre fishing lake. The campground itself is about 100 acres. It provides a tranquil waterside retreat for campers with 77 paved sites for RVs and tent camping. Lake Stone facilities include a boat ramp (gasoline engines not allowed on Lake Stone), indoor public use building, a playground, showers, restrooms, a fishing pier, security lights, 30- and 50-amp electrical and water hookups, a sewage dump station, picnic areas and a fishing lake. Camping fees start at $20 per day. Lake Stone Campground doesn’t have a website, so the best way to make a reservation is by reaching out to the campground manager at (850) 256-5555. You can also email camping@myescambia.com.

Grayton Beach State Park Campground

357 Main Park Rd. | Grayton Beach, FL

Grayton Beach campground offers 59 RV and tent campsites with electricity and water; some with sewer hook-ups. Pets are allowed (leashes required). Fees start at $30 per day. Visit floridastateparks.org, or call (800) 326-3521 for reservations.

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

7525 W. County Highway 30A | Santa Rosa Beach, FL

Topsail campground hosts 156 RV sites and 22 tent-only campsites with electric and water hookups. Some campsites are waterfront. The campground also offers 16 bungalows and 16 cabins. Pets are allowed (leashes required). Reservation fees for RV sites start at $42 per night, and tent-only sites can be reserved for $24 per night. For reservations, visit floridastateparks.orgor call (850) 267-8330.

Gulf State Park

22050 Campground Rd. | Gulf Shores, AL

The Gulf State Park Campground offers 496 improved full-hookup RV or tent campsites with paved pads and with eight primitive tent-only sites. Non-primitive sites are equipped with electricity, water and sewer hookups (tents allowed on all sites). Pets are allowed at the campground, but not inside facilities. Reservations start at $23 per night for primitive tent-only sites and around $87 per night for RV and tent sites. Visit reserve.alapark.com/gulf, or call (251) 948-7275 for reservations.

Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve

24 Big Creek Rd. | Atmore, AL

Magnolia Branch offers 47 full amenity RV sites with water, electric and sewer hookups and 20 RV sites with water and electric hookups. The campground also has 15 tent sites with water and electric hookups, as well as primitive camping. Pets are allowed at the campground, but not inside any facilities. Reservation fees start at $25 per night for paved RV sites, $10 per day for primitive sites (no hookups) and $20 per day for Improved primitive sites (water/electric). Reservations can be made by calling (251) 446-3423. For more information, visit magnoliabranch.com.

By Nicole Willis

Pick of the Patch

First City Art Center’s 19th Annual Pumpkin Patch

As the fall breeze begins to roll in, it’s time to bring out the autumnal decor—from leaf garlands and burlap accents to cornucopias and, of course, pumpkins!

Step up your fall decorating game by adding some local flair with a handcrafted glass or ceramic pumpkin. First City Art Center’s (FCAC) annual Pumpkin Patch provides the perfect opportunity to support local artists while adding a one-of-a-kind handmade piece to your fall decor collection.

On October 4, FCAC will host its 19th Annual Pumpkin Patch, with more than 5,000 glass and ceramic pumpkins for sale. Handcrafted by local artists who work in FCAC’s glass and ceramic studios, each pumpkin is uniquely different, and they come in all shapes, colors and sizes. From traditional-style orange pumpkins and jack-o’-lanterns to vibrantly colored pumpkins that sparkle, there is sure to be a pumpkin for everyone.

“We are excited to celebrate our 19th Annual Pumpkin Patch. More than 40 artists are creating extraordinary glass and ceramic pumpkins for this well-loved event. With more than 5,000 pumpkins and fall items to choose from, everyone will find that one piece that they just must have,” FCAC Executive Director Bart Hudson said. “Our community is so generous in supporting this fundraiser and we are certainly grateful. Come and share in the excitement of fall.”

The Pumpkin Patch serves as FCAC’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting the nonprofit’s mission of offering affordable art education and outreach programs. Proceeds from the event directly benefit the organization and the many artists who work at FCAC. With a range of new ticket options available for this year’s event, guests are sure to have plenty of opportunities to have their pick of the patch.

First Pick tickets are available for FCAC members for $30, which include early event access starting at 9 am and the opportunity to purchase two pumpkins, allowing for the first pick of the patch. Non-members may also purchase a First Pick ticket for $35, which includes early entry at 10 am and the opportunity to purchase two pumpkins. First Pick tickets also allow guests the opportunity to purchase up to two additional pumpkins after making a single $15 donation to FCAC.

Premium Unlimited tickets are also available for $55, which include early entry at 9 am, unlimited pumpkin purchases, two complimentary drink tickets and raffle entries. The annual Pumpkin Patch will open for First Pick and Premium Unlimited ticket holders until 12 pm. At 1 pm, general admission will take place, with unlimited pumpkin sales and free entry.

Pumpkins come in all shapes, sizes and colors, with prices starting at $20. The event will officially conclude at 5 pm.

FCAC’s Pumpkin Patch is a family-friendly event, and tickets are not required for children ages 12 and under.

This year’s Pumpkin Patch event will also feature fun activities for the kids, live music, tasty bites from food trucks and a special mimosa bar for the adults (ages 21 and older).

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased in advance at firstcityart.org.

The 19th Annual Pumpkin Patch will be held at First City Art Center, located at 1060 N. Guillemard St. in downtown Pensacola.

For complete event details, visit firstcityart.org and follow @firstcityartcenter on Facebook or Instagram.

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SEPTEMBER COMMUNITY EVENTS

September Home Games at Blue Wahoos Stadium

For more information and tickets, visit milb.com/pensacola

September 9 at 6:05 pm - Columbus

Clingstones vs Blue Wahoos

September 10 at 6:05 pm - Columbus

Clingstones vs Blue Wahoos

September 11 at 6:05 pm - Columbus

Clingstones vs Blue Wahoos

September 12 at 6:05 pm - Columbus

Clingstones vs Blue Wahoos

September 13 at 6:05 pm - Columbus

Clingstones vs Blue Wahoos

September 14 at 1:05 pm - Columbus

Clingstones vs Blue Wahoos

Recycle It Exhibit at Artel Gallery

. . August 26 to October 3, 2025

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The Artel Gallery will showcase the works of Northwest Florida artists in its upcoming Recycle It exhibit from August 26 through October 3. The exhibit is free. Artel Gallery is located at 223 S. Palafox Place in downtown Pensacola, and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. For more details, visit artelgallery.com or check out Artel Gallery on Facebook.

The Flick at PLT

. . . . August 29 to September 7

Step into the quiet chaos of a fading movie theater in The Flick, Annie Baker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play. As three employees sweep up popcorn and share their dreams between reels, unexpected bonds form in the flickering shadows. Subtle, heartfelt and bitingly funny, The Flick is a poignant love letter to cinema and the people who live just outside the spotlight. The Flick features mature themes. Pensacola Little Theatre is located at 400 S. Jefferson St. in downtown Pensacola. For tickets and more information, visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.

Bands on the Beach

September 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30

Each year, from April through October, you can enjoy free outdoor concerts on Pensacola Beach. The Bands on the Beach concert series promises a musical extravaganza spanning from rock and country, to pop and funk and everything in between. Hosted by the Santa Rosa Island Authority and set against the stunning backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico at the Gulfside Pavilion on Pensacola Beach, Bands on the Beach offers free weekly concerts on Tuesday nights from 7 to 9 pm. Grab some friends, lawn-chairs and pack the cooler and head out to the beach for a free beachside concert. Dogs and glassware are not permitted. The September performance lineup is as follows: The Lads on September 2, Count the Years on September 9, Josh

Strickland Band on September 16, Float Like a Buffalo on September 23 and Brandon Giles on September 30. For more information, visit visitpensacolabeach.com.

Pensacola Opera’s Jukebox Gala

September 6

Join Pensaocola Opera at the Hilton on Pensacola Beach at 6 pm as they kick off their mainstage season with an evening of fine dining, fine singing and fine giving. Now in its 21st year, the Jukebox Gala is Pensacola Opera’s signature fundraising event. Order a gourmet four-course dinner while world-class opera artists come table side to serenade you and your guests. The evening will kick off with a preview of the upcoming season, but the rest of the playlist is up to you! The evening’s entertainment is determined by guests as they bid on popular selections from opera and musical theater to be performed for them table-side, course by course. Dress is cocktail attire, and tickets are $175. For tickets and information, visit pensacolaopera.com.

Steven Ho at the Saenger Theatre

September 6

Steven Ho, the comedian and former ER worker behind the viral Tips from the ER series, is bringing his sharp wit and real-life stories to the stage. With over a decade of emergency room experience, Ho transforms the chaos of healthcare into laugh-out-loud moments, blending smart storytelling with his signature dark humor. His Is It An Emergency? tour has already sold out shows across the US, Canada, and the UK, fueled by a fanbase of more than 14 million and collaborations with major brands like GoodRx and Amazon Prime. Steven Ho will perform live at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre on September 6. Doors open at 6 pm, and the show starts at 7 pm. For tickets and show details, visit pensacolasaenger.com.

Blue Angels Practice Dates

September 9, 10, 16 & 23

The world-famous Blue Angels can be seen practicing over the National Naval Aviation Museum at NAS Pensacola on select days throughout the year. Watch them soar and visit the museum for free. The gates will open at 9:30 am. The practice flight demonstrations can also be viewed outside of NAS Pensacola, including locations like Fort Pickens, boat cruises, and various points throughout downtown. The Blue Angels will take off around 10:30 am and the practices last for about 55 minutes. The National Naval Aviation Museum is located at 1750 Radford Blvd. in Pensacola. Practice schedules are subject to change. For more information, visit navalaviationmuseum.org/blueangels.

4th Annual Harvest Sip & Shop

. September 10

Celebrate the magic of the season in Downtown Palafox at The Shops of Palafox’s 4th Annual Harvest Sip & Shop. From 5 to 8 pm, stroll the charming streets, explore your favorite local shops and toast to autumn with

festive sips, seasonal discounts, and cozy, family-friendly fun. The Shops of Palafox Harvest Passport returns—collect stamps as you visit participating shops for your chance to win exciting giveaways, including prizes from your favorite Palafox retailers. Be the first to discover new fall arrivals, soak in the spirit of the season and enjoy live music filling the streets as the autumn air drifts in.

Cinemas in the Sand - Toy Story

. September 12

Presented by the Santa Rosa Island Authority, Cinemas in the Sand invites locals and visitors alike to gather under the stars, feel the sand between their toes and enjoy timeless movie classics against the breathtaking backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico. On September 12 from 7 to 9 pm, individuals of all ages are invited for a showing of the 1995 Pixar classic Toy Story. Sink your toes in the sand as you experience the magic of this animated classic in an unforgettable setting. There is no cost to attend and all ages are welcome. For more information, check out visitpensacolabeach.com.

Black Jacket Symphony presents The Era of Yacht Rock

September 13

Remember putting on an album and listening from start to finish? Relive that moment with a live concert experience unlike any other as the Black Jacket Symphony recreates a select classic album live in its entirety—note for note, sound for sound—plus a full set of greatest hits from the evening’s artist. Enjoy a full night of rock and roll magic—plus a visual experience unlike any other at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre on September 13 at 7:30 pm. Fans across the country flock to their shows—and once you see one, you won’t miss another. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at ticketmaster.com or at the Saenger Theatre Box Office located at 22 E. Intendencia St. in downtown Pensacola. For complete show details, visit pensacolasaenger.com.

Rock4Vets

September 13

The Rock4Vets 5K is an annual event that combines fitness, music and fun to raise funds and awareness for local homeless veterans. Participants can run or walk a 5K course, then enjoy live music, food, drinks and games in a vibrant festival atmosphere. The Rock4Vets 5K and post-race festivities will be held at Community Maritime Park, located at 301 W. Main St. in downtown Pensacola. To register or learn more, visit choosepeoples.com/rock4vets.

PLT presents Jekyll & Hyde

. September 19 - October 5

Darkness and desire collide in Pensacola Little Theatre’s mainstage production of the epic gothic musical thriller, Jekyll & Hyde. When the brilliant Dr. Henry Jekyll’s bold experiment unleashes his violent alter ego, Edward Hyde, a chilling game of dual identities unfolds. With a sweeping score featuring showstoppers like This Is the Moment and Someone Like You,

this gothic tale of good versus evil explores the razor-thin line between man and monster. Performances will be held at Pensacola Little Theatre in downtown Pensacola from September 19 through Ocotber 5. Showtimes vary. For tickets and information, visit pensacolalittletheatre.com.

Lake Street Dive at Saenger

September 23

Beloved for their genre-blending sound and dynamic live shows, Lake Street Dive return to Pensacola with music from their new album Good Together. The group infuses soul, folk, jazz, pop and funk into songs that balance joyful energy with thoughtful reflection on connection in a divided world. Known for their onstage camaraderie and ability to inspire sing-alongs and dancing, Lake Street Dive continue to push the boundaries of modern pop while keeping community at the heart of their music. Doors open at 7 pm and the show begins at 8. The Pensacola Saenger Theatre is located at 118 S. Palafox Place in downtown Pensacola. For tickets and complete show details, visit pensacolasaenger.com.

Magic City Hippies at Vinyl

September 28

Magic City Hippies have carved out a distinct place in the indie landscape, blending Miami’s sun-soaked swagger with infectious funk, psych-pop and danceable grooves. What began as the Robby Hunter Band evolved in 2015 with the release of Magic City Hippies, the album that gave the trio its name and solidified a sound both laid-back and relentlessly kinetic. Though their recordings have drawn both critical and fan acclaim, Magic City Hippies are best known for their live shows. Their ability to convert casual listeners into loyal fans is no accident, it’s the result of years of relentless touring, musical chemistry and an unapologetic commitment to making every show feel like a celebration. Magic City Hippies will perform live at Vinyl Music Hall on September 28 at 8 pm. Doors open at 7 pm. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at vinylmusichall.com.

Unknown Mortal Orchestra at Vinyl

September 30

Led by Hawaiian-New Zealand artist Ruban Nielson, Unknown Mortal Orchestra (UMO) has built a reputation for turning psychrock, funk, and weirdo pop into something entirely their own. Their newest album, V , draws from Palm Springs sun and Hawaiian coastlines, weaving nostalgic AM radio tones with modern edge. Known for live shows that feel both hypnotic and celebratory, UMO delivers a sound that’s as transportive as it is danceable. Catch the group with special guests Improvement Movement at Vinyl Music Hall on September 30. Doors open at 6 pm, and the show starts at 7 pm. For tickets and show details, visit vinylmusichall.com.

MILITARYMATTERS

AN ARMED FORCES NEWS SECTION

UWF HAAS CENTER RESEARCH FUELS NEW CAMPAIGN SHOWCASING NORTHWEST FLORIDA’S MILITARY TALENT

The University of West Florida (UWF) Haas Center has provided critical research driving a new regional campaign, “Military Talent: Mission-Ready Veterans, Business-Ready Results,” launched by Florida’s Great Northwest. The initiative highlights the extraordinary value of Northwest Florida’s military community — particularly transitioning service members and veterans — who offer mission-ready skills and business-ready results to employers.

Funded by the Florida Commerce Defense Reinvestment Grant and Florida’s Great Northwest, the UWF Haas Center’s comprehensive dashboard delivers insights regarding the region’s military workforce. The data is now available on FGNW’s Military Talent Dashboard, serving as a strategic tool for economic development, recruitment and retention of top-tier talent in the 13-county region.

“The University of West Florida is proud to play a role in strengthening the economic vitality of our region through data-driven research,”UWF Interim President Manny Diaz Jr. said. “Our work with Florida’s Great Northwest showcases how the UWF Haas Center can partner with community and industry leaders to demonstrate the value our veterans bring to our economy.”

Key findings from the Haas Center’s research include:

• An average of 5,200 service members transition out of Northwest Florida’s military installations each year, far exceeding previous estimates.

• Nearly 60% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.

• More than 47% plan to remain in the region after service, with an additional 19% undecided.

“I want to commend Florida’s Great Northwest for launching this campaign, a campaign laser-focused on unlocking opportunity for our veterans and for our economy,” Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly said. “Northwest Florida has long been a center of defense excellence, supporting our heroes and their families and Florida Commerce was grateful to have supported this endeavor with a Defense Reinvestment Grant to seed the necessary research for this campaign to recruit and retain our military expertise in the civilian workforce.”

The Military Talent Dashboard provides a dynamic, data-driven view of the region’s military separation trends, educational attainment and workforce readiness. It stands as a prime example of how research at UWF can directly support regional economic development.

“This data is a game-changer, allowing us to powerfully describe this pool of pre-trained, disciplined, untapped talent to companies in our target industry sectors,” President & CEO of Florida’s Great Northwest Jennifer Conoley said. “The Military Talent Dashboard underscores Northwest Florida’s strategic advantage as a place where employers have access to highly-skilled professionals who are ready for their next career.”

UWF is committed to the region’s economic success, and projects like this exemplify the power of collaboration between higher education, industry and community partners.

“These findings give Northwest Florida an incredible opportunity to connect highly skilled, disciplined and experienced professionals with employers across our target industries,” UWF Haas Center Executive Director Nicole Gislason said. “This research demonstrates the workforce gains our businesses experience as they expand across the northern Gulf Coast.”

To explore the dashboard and learn more about the campaign, visit fgnwtalent.com.

For more information on the UWF Haas Center, visit uwf.edu/haas.

From late-night sets to symphonic swells, Foo Foo Fest has something for everyone. With 12 days of unforgettable arts and culture in Pensacola, FL, there’s only one thing you need to do: Plan nothing. Discover everything.