By Michele Miller
What’s What New Port Richey
We are nearing that time of year. The Temps are rising. High school and college commencement season is upon us, meaning the kids will be out of school for summer break soon, with swimming lessons, day and overnight camps, summer reading programs, and other ways to while away the lazy days on the docket.
Check out the calendar below for a listing of outdoor events hosted by Pasco and city parks, local libraries, the Audubon Society, and Master Gardeners with the IFAS/UF Pasco Extension program.
Some offerings are sure to tempt you to get out there. For those who prefer the AC, several gardening programs are held indoors with guest speakers raring to equip attendees with valuable knowledge that can be put to use in the cooler planting days of fall.
Scroll down or access the Quick Search below to find events by week or type.
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MAY 1 – 3
MAY 4-10
MAY 11-17
MAY 18-24
MAY 25-31
ONGOING
MARKET DAYS
CITY OF NEW PORT RICHEY PARKS INFO
PORT RICHEY PARKS INFO
PASCO COUNTY PARKS INFO
SENIOR OUTREACH PROGRAMS
YOUTH SUMMER CAMPS
May 1 – 3
OTB | Sunset Beach Concert Series featuring Trop Rock Junkies, 7 p.m. Thursday, May 1 at Sunset Beach in Tarpon Springs | Free entry + free shuttle
Concerts are on the first Thursday of the month (February through November) and start at 7 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, and the concert is canceled before the start time, it will be held the following Thursday. A free shuttle is provided from Tarpon Springs High on Gulf Blvd. to Sunset Beach.
Pasco Audubon Morning Nature Walk, 8 a.m. Saturday, May 3 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey | Free
Meet at the Education Center for a 1-4 mile walk. Wear appropriate shoes. Bring water, bug spray, and sunscreen.
For information visit pascoaudubon.com
New Port Richey Monarch Festival, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturday, May 3, in the center courtyard at the New Port Richey Public Library in downtown NPR | Free
Featuring educational and fun activities for all ages, including presentations by the “Milkweed Man” and the Sierra Club, Kids Yoga by Flow Yoga Studios, face painting, arts and crafts by the Pasco Fine Arts Council, sidewalk chalk, and additional vendors with butterfly art.
NPR Parks & Rec | Kids Night Out – May the Force Be With You, 6-9 p.m. Saturday, May 3 at the NPR Aquatic Center in New Port Richey | $10
Celebrate May the 4th with an evening filled with galactic crafts, movies, and fun! Don’t forget to wear your favorite Star Wars costume. Your mission awaits!
Pizza, juice, and water will be provided to fuel your journey through the galaxy.
Pre-registration is encouraged. Space is limited
May 4-10
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | What to do with my Orchid Now, 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 7 at the Hudson Regional Library in Hudson | Free
This presentation will cover basic home orchid care for beginners. Beginning with What Is an Orchid, the different types of orchids that are available, and what do these orchids need in order to grow and bloom. Attendees may bring in an orchid for discussions, time permitting.
For more information about this and other Pasco Extension events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
OTB | Pasco Audubon Birding By Bike, 8 a.m. Saturday, May 10 at Flatwoods Park Trail, Thonotosassa | Free
The group will meet locally and carpool to the park.
For information visit pascoaudubon.com
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Basic Vegetable Gardening, 9-10 a.m. Saturday, May 10 at Heritage Park in Land O’Lakes | Free
There is nothing better than going out to the garden to pick vegetables to serve your family. For novice gardeners, learn the basics to get started. For intermediate to advanced gardeners, take a refresher course to improve your knowledge. If you give them the growing conditions they prefer and do a little planning, you can grow fresh, nutritious vegetables most of the year in central Florida.
For more information about this and other Pasco Extension events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Pollinator Garden in a Pot, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 10 at the Zephyrhills Public Library | Free
Come see a demonstration about combining plants into one pot that can fit on your patio or porch. Learn about the importance of pollinators and the appropriate plants needed for their survival, and the design needed for a successful container garden.
For more information about this and other Pasco Extension events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
Pasco County Parks & Rec | Crocheting Flowers, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturday, May 10 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey | $10
Looking for the perfect last-minute Mother’s Day gift? Come to this beginner-friendly crochet class where you will create your very own everlasting bouquet of roses! Participants will be guided step-by-step, and by the end, you will have a mini bouquet to gift or keep for yourself! All supplies will be provided.
To register or for more information about this event and/or other Pasco Parks and Rec events, visit flpascocountyweb.myvscloud.com
Pasco’s Own Cotee River: Headwaters to the Gulf, 11:30 a.m. Saturday, May 10, at the New Port Richey Library in downtown NPR
Come out for this fun and informative presentation on the magic of the Pithlachascotee River, led by New Port Richey resident and Sierra Club member Linda Blake, M.S. Ed.
Be sure to stick around to meet some of the river’s wild residents. Friends from Heart of the Wild will be bringing along a variety of reptiles, including a friendly (and colorful) corn snake. For information on this and other events, visit the NPR Library event page here.
Pasco County Parks & Rec | Foraging Hike, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Saturday, May 10 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey | $3
Participants will embark on a Naturalist-led hike learning about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park’s fantastic variety of wild edibles. We will discuss identification and traditional uses and preparations for many of the park’s native species. This is an educational hike that will NOT involve the physical ingestion of any plants or fungi
To register or for more information about this event and/or other Pasco Parks and Rec events, visit flpascocountyweb.myvscloud.com
MAY 11-17
Pasco County Parks & Rec | Mother’s Day Archery, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. (two sessions) Sunday, May 11 at Crews Lake Wilderness Park in Spring Hill | $15
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your skills, our programs offer simple, hands-on instruction in a fun and supportive environment. Each session focuses on fundamental techniques, helping you gain confidence while making new friends.
To register or for more information about this event and/or other Pasco Parks and Rec events, visit flpascocountyweb.myvscloud.com
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Plants & Pets, 2-3 p.m. Tuesday, May 13 at the New River Library in Wesley Chapel | Free
Learn about the various plants kept in homes and landscapes, some of which may cause potential harm to our non-human family members. Many popular plants contain toxins that can cause mild irritation or be potentially life-threatening. Come out to this informative seminar to learn about plants known to be safe for pets, placement of those plants.
For more information about this and other Pasco Extension events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
Kids to Parks Day, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturday, May 17 at James E. Grey Preserve in New Port Richey | Free
Kids to Parks Day is a nationwide celebration of outdoor play, designed to connect children and families with the great outdoors through fun and engaging activities. Come visit James E. Grey Preserve for a morning of adventure featuring a scavenger hunt, crafts, and games.
Pasco Parks & Rec | Canvas & Threads, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturday, May 17 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | $10
Participants will embroider a pre-painted canvas using basic embroidery techniques taught by one of our own naturalists! The painting this month will feature one of Florida’s native butterflies.
To register or for more information about this event and/or other Pasco Parks and Rec events, visit flpascocountyweb.myvscloud.com
Port Richey Centennial Parade and Festival, 12-9 p.m. Saturday, May 17 at Waterfront Park in Port Richey | Free
Parade and Festival, Saturday, May 17, at Waterfront Park in Port Richey. Come out for this event or be part of it. Decorate your golf cart and join the parade. Craft and Farmers Market, Dunk Tank. Drum Circle at Sunset.
Pasco Parks & Rec | Guided Painting, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Saturday, May 17 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | $10
In this family-friendly program, we will be painting Florida’s forest ecosystem. All supplies will be provided! Please come dressed in clothes for painting.
To register or for more information about this event and/or other Pasco Parks and Rec events, visit flpascocountyweb.myvscloud.com
NPR Parks & Rec | Concert in the Park featuring Johnny Wild & Delights, 7-9 p.m. Saturday, May 17 at Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey | Free
Get ready for high-energy hits, timeless classics, and a show-stopping performance you won’t forget. Bring your chairs, your crew, and your love for great music
MAY 18 – 24
Pasco County Parks & Rec | Beautyberry Bug Spray, 9-11 a.m. Sunday, May 18 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park | $10
Participants will go on a short trek learning about the medicinal benefits of native plants and the critters calling the park home. After, participants will head back to the Starkey Environmental Education Center to create their very own bug spray made from beautyberry shrubs
To register or for more information about this event and/or other Pasco Parks and Rec events, visit flpascocountyweb.myvscloud.com
Pasco County Parks & Rec | Pine Needle Weaving-Beginner, 1-3:30 p.m. Sunday, May 18 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park | $5
A family-friendly workshop on creating primitive pine-needle mini baskets using natural materials. This class will be held in the Education Center.
To register or for more information about this event and/or other Pasco Parks and Rec events, visit flpascocountyweb.myvscloud.com
Port Richey Centennial Celebration | Johnny Cash Tribute Concert and Fireworks, 6-10 p.m. Sunday, May 18, at Waterfront Park in Port Richey
Johnny Cash Tribute Concert & Fireworks, featuring Johnny Cash performer Bill Forness. Vendors, fireworks, too. Starting at 6 p.m. at Waterfront Park in Port Richey
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Exploring the Vital Role of Florida Mangroves, 2-3 p.m. Monday, May 19 at the Centennial Park Library in Holiday | Free
This talk will highlight the unique ecosystem of Florida’s mangrove forests and their importance in coastal protection, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
Dive into how these fascinating trees thrive in coastal waters, support diverse wildlife, and help mitigate the impacts of storm surges. You will learn how to identify the three main species of mangroves in Florida and touch on some of the regulations for mangrove trimming.
For more information about this and other Pasco Extension events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Floriography, 2-3 p.m. Monday, May 19 at the Daniel A Cannon Memorial Library in St. Leo | Free
Floriography Red roses mean love, but do you know what the flower colors of yellow or white mean? Do you know which flower symbolizes friendship? Come and learn what the Victorians called the language of flowers: Floriography.
For more information about this and other Pasco Extension events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Plants & Pets, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 20 at the New River Port Richey Public Library | Free
Learn about the various plants kept in homes and landscapes, some of which may cause potential harm to our non-human family members. Many popular plants contain toxins that can cause mild irritation or be potentially life-threatening. Come out to this informative seminar to learn about plants known to be safe for pets, placement of those plants.
For more information about this and other Pasco Extension events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | All About Elderberry, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Wednesday, May 21, at the Starkey Ranch Library in Odessa | Free
This seminar will explore the history and propagation of the elderberry plant, showcasing its rich and fascinating background. Participants will learn about the various uses of elderberries throughout history.
The session will cover different methods of propagating elderberry plants, including cuttings and seedlings, along with tips for successful cultivation. Attendees can expect to gain a deeper understanding of elderberries and practical knowledge for growing them.
For more information about this and other Pasco Extension events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Rain Barrel Workshop, 2-3:30 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at the New River Branch Library in Wesley Chapel | $65
This Rain Barrel Workshop is a PAID EVENT where you get to keep the rain barrel you build. Participants will learn how to build, install, and use their rain barrel. Each rain barrel holds approximately 55 gallons (there may be slight style/size/gallonage variations).
Limit one rain barrel per household. Attendance to the workshop is required by at least one household member. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required. Open to Pasco County residents only. Registration ends on May 15, 2025, at 5 PM EST.
For more information about this and other Pasco Extension events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
NPR Parks & Rec | Family Movie Night featuring Transformers One, 8:30 p.m. Friday, May 23 in Sims Park in downtown NPR | Free
Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and the whole family for a night of epic adventure as we explore the origin story of Cybertron’s most iconic heroes.
Pasco County Parks and Rec | Clay Coasters, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Saturday, May 24 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey | $10
Participants will be guided through making their very own creation using clay and paint. All supplies will be provided! Please come dressed in clothes for crafting.
To register or for more information about this event and/or other Pasco Parks and Rec events, visit flpascocountyweb.myvscloud.com
Check out this recent feature story on the Pasco Schools’ Energy & Marine Center in Port Richey
MAY 25 -31
New Port Richey Library Touch a Truck, Hurricane Expo Summer Program Kickoff, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Saturday, May 31 at the New Port Richey Library/City Hall in downtown NPR | Free
Check out some big rig trucks and equipment, and pick up some info on hurricane preparedness. Sign up for the Summer Library Challenge and enjoy kids’ activities, food vendors, and giveaways.
For more information on this and other NPR Library programs, visit nprlibrary.org.
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Soil to Boil Herbal Tea Blending Class with Native Florida Plants, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturday, May 31 at the Hugh Embry Library in Dade City | Free
Discover the art of crafting your own custom tea blend using native Florida plants. In this hands-on session, you’ll learn about the unique properties of various local herbs and flowers, the seasons to grow them, and how to combine them for a perfect brew.
For more information about this and other Pasco Extension events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
Pasco County Parks & Rec | Dive Into Summer Night Swim, 8:30-11 p.m. Friday, April 30 at Veterans Memorial Park in Hudson | $5 – cash only | Ages 2 and under free
Come out for a fun-filled evening of swimming, music, games, and good vibes at our Summer Kick-Off Night! Admission is first-come, first-served. The pool capacity is 150 people. A food truck may be available for purchase
All ages are welcome. Ages 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is first-come, first-served. Pool capacity is 150 people.
ONGOING
Walk & Talk Club, 10 a.m. most Mondays at the New Port Richey Public Library
Meet at the Library courtyard for a local walk, share conversation, and learn something about the city along the way.
Market Days
Tasty Tuesdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. each Tuesday at the New Port Richey Public Library in downtown New Port Richey
Find locally sourced foods, sustainably grown produce, cottage-industry baked goods and foods, hand-made items, and more.
The market is SNAP shopping friendly, so bring your EBT cards to use up to $40 in SNAP AND get an additional $40 in Fresh Access Bucks (FAB) for free, locally-grown produce!
To become a vendor, pick up an application at the Tasty Tuesdays EBT tent. There are no application or vendor fees at this great community market. Applications are being accepted, however, some applicants may be wait-listed until vendor space is available
City of New Port Richey Parks & Rec General Information
The City is home to James E. Grey Preserve, an 80-acre wildlife preserve featured on the Great Florida Birding Trail. The preserve is home to 140 different species of birds, as well as deer, wild boar, turtles, and manatees.
New Port Richey welcomes leashed dogs in the following parks: Sims Park, Cotee River Park, and Jasmin Park. The City is also home to Meadows Park, where canine companions are free to explore off-leash in our newly renovated dog park.
The New Port Richey Recreation & Aquatic Center is a 35,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility located at the edge of Downtown New Port Richey in West Pasco County, Florida. It offers a variety of affordable recreational activities and athletic training opportunities for everyone of any age. With programs for children, seniors, and adults, this facility has become an integral part of the fabric of our community. For more information, visit cityofnewportrichey.org/Residents/Amenities/Recreation-and-Aquatic-Center
City of Port Richey Parks & Rec General Information
PHOTO | MICHELE MILLER
Check out the local parks located in the City of Port Richey, including Waterfront Park, where many city events are held, Brasher Park, Winslow Park, and Oelsner Park on Miller’s Bayou. For more info, visit cityofportrichey.gov/parks
Pasco County Parks & Rec General Information
PHOTO | MICHELE MILLER
With 190 full-time employees and an additional 155 seasonal employees hired annually, Pasco County Parks operates and maintains:
- 23 Active Parks
- 14 Passive Parks
- 4 Recreation Complexes
- 5 Community Centers
- 2 Swimming Pools
- 1 Tourism Sports Campus
- 4 kayak/canoe launches
- 121 Athletic Fields
- 3 Public Boat Ramps
- 6920 Acres of Environmentally Sensitive Land
- 15,000 Acres of Park Land, Trails, and Open Space
The County parks system also provides 121 recreational programs and 40 events per year, including social events, instructional classes, and summer and winter programming. Note that some coastal parks are still under repair from the 2024 hurricanes. (Photo of Anclote Gulf Pier, March 2025)
The boardwalk at Key Vista Park and Anclote Gulf Park has been closed due to a recent brush fire.
To learn more about Pasco County Parks, including athletic leagues, rec centers, youth camps, amenities, and more, visit pascocountyfl.net/services/parks
Pasco County Parks & Rec Senior Outreach Programs
- Monthly Nature Crafts at Elfers Senior Center, 10 – 11 a.m. on May 13 at 4136 Barker Dr, New Port Richey. Call (727) 844-7703 to learn more and to sign up.
- Monthly Nature Crafts at Galen Wilson Senior Center, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m., May 15 at 8600 Galen Wilson Blvd, Port Richey. Call (727) 834-3340 to learn more and sign up.
Summer Youth Camps
Pasco County Parks & Rec Adventure Camps, June – July 2025. where children dive into the wonders of Florida’s vibrant ecosystem! Whether it’s summer or during school breaks, our camps offer a variety of exciting activities, including bug hunts, nature arts, hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling. Each day is filled with exploration and hands-on learning, fostering a deep appreciation for nature while making new friends. With expert guides and engaging programs, your child will create lasting memories while discovering the beauty and diversity of Florida’s unique habitats. Enroll today and let the adventure begin!
For information and to enroll at the Pasco County Parks & Rec website, click here.
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