April 2025
By Michele Miller
What’s What New Port Richey
Aside from all that pollen caking the car and wreaking havoc with allergy sufferers, it’s the best time of year in these parts, as evidenced by the spring breakers descending from dreary northern parts and a full slate of upcoming events and events that herald spring’s arrival in a way that’s sure to spur motivation for an outdoor adventure.
Early on, you can get out for what remains of New Port Richey’s Chasco Fiesta, which wraps up on April 5 with a couple of cool concerts, carnival rides, and the annual boat parade on the Pithlachascotee River.
Sims Park will be bustling again on April 12. FarmNets’ Loquat Festival – ‘The only food fest of its kind in the United States,” according to organizer Dell deChant – will be happening during the day around the gazebo and museum. NPR Parks and Rec hosts a family-friendly Spring Fling with all sorts of fun and games during the evening. Come back to Sims Park on April 25 for the NPR Library’s Riverside Concert Series featuring The Garbage-Men, a band from Sarasota, who spread through song, the important message and lessons on sustainability and creativity while performing with DIY recycled instruments.
Celebrate Earth Day on April 26 at Crews Lake Park in Spring Hill, an annual event that features presentations, vendors, native plants, recycling opportunities, and workshops. Or take a drive to the east side of the county for the UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension Earth Day Celebration and Plant Sale on April 19 at the One-Stop-Shop Center in Dade City.
Those looking to find other ways to celebrate and experience our local environment might want to check out the various fee-based programs hosted by Pasco County Parks – biking, hiking, archery, nature crafts, art classes, and more.
Check out the free birding adventures with Pasco Audubon, which this month announces winners of the annual photo contest, and several gardening programs offered for free at local libraries courtesy of Master Gardeners with the UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension.
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Events By Week
April 1 -5
April 6 – 12
April 13 – 19
April 20 – 26
April 27 – 30
*OTB-Events over the Pasco County Border
Special Programs
Parks & Rec Senior Outreach Craft Programs
Homeschool and Preschool Educational Programs
Pop-Up Markets
General Information
City of New Port Richey Parks
City of Port Richey Parks
Pasco County Parks
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Register for Guided Tours in April
APRIL 1 – 5
Chasco Fiesta continues through April 5, 2025 – Special Section
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Palm Tree Planters, 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 2 at the Hudson Regional Library | Free
At this workshop, Master Gardeners will teach you how to make a planter from a dead Palm Tree.
For more information and events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Edible Landscaping, 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 2 at the Land O’Lakes Library | Free
Any landscape can provide edible crops by choosing attractive, well-mannered plants.
For more information and events visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
Pasco County Parks & Rec | Gopher Tortoise Walk, 9 – 10 a.m. Friday, April 4 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | $3
Celebrate Gopher Toroise Day with a walk and talk guided presentation. Learn about what makes these reptiles unique and the important role they play in the Florida ecosystem. Registration required.
*OTB | Sunset Beach Concert Series, 7 – 9 p.m. Thursday, April 3 at Sunset Beach in Tarpon Springs | Free
Featuring the Tarpon Springs High Jazz Band. Concessions. Free shuttle service.
Pasco County Disaster Preparedness Expo & Touch a Truck Event, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, April 4 at Safety Town in Shady Hills | Free
Pasco’s 2025 Disaster Expo will help you:
- Plan for Evacuations
- Register for Special Needs Assistance
- Protect Your Home or Business
- Learn How to Get Involved
- Prepare Go-Kits for People and Pets
Pasco Audubon | Monthly Bird Walk, 8 a.m. Saturday, April 5 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey | Free
Meet in the parking lot at the Education Center for a 1 – 3 mile walk. For more events and information visit pascoaudubon.com
Pasco Audubon | Member Bird Photos from Costa Rica & 6th Annual Nature & Wildlife of Tampa Bay Photography Competition and Exhibition, 11 a.m. Saturday, April 5 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey | Free
check out photos from the recent members’ trip to Costa Rica and winners of the annual photo competition.
For more events and information visit pascoaudubon.com
Pasco County Parks & Rec | Tidal Walk, 1 – 2:30 p.m. Saturday, April 5 at Robert K. Rees Park in NPR | $3
Come on out for this naturalist-led trek along the tidal ecosystems at Robert K. Rees Memorial Park. Participants will learn about the importance of these ecosystems and discover the unique critters living on the shoreline. Registration required.
APRIL 6 – 12
Pasco County Parks & Rec | Wood Whittling, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Sunday, April 6 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | $5
All tools are provided for this hands-on program which will be held in the Education Center. Please note that the activity can be tough on the hands and may not be suitable for those with a weak grip. All supplies will be provided. Registration required.
Pasco County Parks & Rec | Primitive Fire Skills 101, 1 – 4 p.m. Sunday, April 6 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | $5
Learn how to build a fire with primitive tools and natural materials. Topics covered in this educational program will include making char and tinder bundles from natural sources and striking fires using various techniques, including flint and steel. Following each educational topic, participants will gain hands-on experience by putting their newfound knowledge to the test! Registration required.
Backyard Chickens – Things you need to know and consider, 6 – 7:30 p.m. Monday, April 7 at the Regency Park Library in New Port Richey
Learn about chickens and what you’ll need to raise them.
NPR Library Walk & Talk Club, 10 – 11 a.m. Monday, April 7, and most Mondays starting at the library in downtown New Port Richey | Free
Explore the city and make new friends, all while getting some exercise.
The walk will begin and end at the New Port Richey Public Library. Meet in the courtyard.
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Backyard Birds, 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 8 at the New River Library in Wesley Chapel | Free
Learn about all kinds of birds that will visit your yard.
For more information and events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
Gopher Tortoise SHELLabration, 5 – 7 p.m. Thursday, April 10 at the New Port Richey Library | Free
This program raises awareness about this important keystone species – the gopher tortoise. Celebrate National Gopher Tortoise Day with kids’ activities and a viewing of the documentary Gopher Games. Presented in partnership with the Florida Suncoast Sierra Club.
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Plant Propagation, 9 a.m. Saturday, April 12 at Heritage Park in Land O’Lakes and at 9:30 a.m. at the Zephyrhills Public Library | Free
Learn how to start new plants from parent stock of existing plants.
For more information and events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
12th Annual Loquat Fest, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, April 12 at Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey | Free
This fest is a learning and sharing event to help expand the knowledge and appreciation of the loquat tree and its fruit. There will be fresh fruit, preserves, educational talks, and trees and plants for sale.
Pasco Parks & Rec | Canvas & Threads, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturday, April 12 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. Registration required.
Pasco Parks & Rec | Guided Painting, 2- 4 p.m. Saturday, April 12 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. Registration required.
NPR Parks & Rec Spring Fling, 5:30 – 8 p.m. Saturday, April 12 in Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey | Free
Come out for this family-friendly event featuring egg hunts, bounce houses, crafts, photos with the Easter Bunny, and more.
APRIL 13 – 19
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Migratory Visitors, 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 15 at the New Port Richey Public Library | Free
learn more about the migratory visitors we have here in Pasco County at this seminar.
For more information and events visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Growing Bananas and Other Tropical Fruit, 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 16 at the Starkey Ranch Library in Odessa | Free
Bananas are the most popular fruit in the world. Come to this seminar to learn more about them and how to integrate them into your home landscape.
For more information and events visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
Pasco Parks & Rec | Introduction to Archery, 9 and 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 19 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey | $15
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your skills, these 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. Registration required.
Pasco Parks & Rec | Freshwater Fishing Single Day Camp, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Friday. April 19 at Crews Lake Wilderness Park in Spring Hill | Ages 8 – 15 | $35
This is an action-packed single-day fishing camp where you’ll master the essentials of fishing while having fun outdoors. This camp is designed to teach you the fundamentals, from ethical fishing practices to hands-on skills. Registration required.
UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension | Earth Day Celebration, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturday, April 19 at the One-Stop-Shop Center in Dade City (Plant sale from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.) | Free
Celebrate Earth Day with fun activities, demonstrations, and eco-friendly initiatives.
For more information and events, visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco
APRIL 20 – 26
Pasco County Parks & Rec | Pine Needle Weaving-Beginner, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Sunday, April 20 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. Registration required.
Pasco County Parks & Rec | River Investigators, 1 – 4 p.m. Sunday, April 20 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | $3
In this family-friendly workshop, embark on a quest to uncover the mysteries of the river and all that lies beneath the shimmering surface! Here, we will transform into scientists of our own making, exploring a realm as intricate as our own, as we investigate, gather, and test the waters of the Pithlachascotee River. Registration required.
Composting 101, 5 p.m. Monday, April 21 at the New Port Richey Public Library | Free
Learn how to start and maintain your own compost at home. Plus, discover the benefits of the city’s Composting Program and find out how you can participate.
Garden Tool Swap, 5 – 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 23, at the New Port Richey Public Library
Trade and shop all things gardening—from tools and guidebooks to gadgets and more. We’ll provide space for you to display your items, giving you the chance to swap with others and bring home something new-to-you. Open to teens and adults.
Eating Local Produce with local farmer, Tanner Kauffman, 5 – 6 p.m. Thursday, April 24 at the New Port Richey Public Library | Free
Celebrate Earth Week with a special talk by Tanner Kauffman, owner of Theo’s Harvest.
Tanner will talk about the importance of growing, shopping for, and eating local produce.
At his urban bio-intensive farm in New Port Richey, Tanner cultivates soil-grown vegetables without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. Discover how supporting local farms like Theo’s Harvest can benefit both your health and the environment.
New Port Richey Garden Club Spring Plant Sale, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. April 25 – 26
The New Port Richey Garden Club Spring Plant Sale will be at 910 Gary Street in Hudson. Sales Support local high school scholarships.
NPR Library Riverside Concert Series featuring The Garbage-Men, 6 – 7 p.m. Friday, April 25 in Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey | Free
Since 2010, The Garbage-Men, a band from Sarasota, Florida, has been sharing sustainability and creativity with the community by playing music on DIY recycled instruments. This performance will take place in the southwest corner of Sims Park, near the Grassin Bridge. Feel free to bring a chair for seating
Presented in partnership with the city’s Cultural Affairs Committee and the Friends of the New Port Richey Public Library.
Pasco Audubon | Spring Migration Field Trip to Fort DeSoto Park in Pinellas County, Saturday, April 26 | Free
Birds you might see –
Orioles, Tanagers, Grossbeak, Warblers, and more. Meet in the East Beach parking lot at 7:30 am.
For info Contact Christine Rowland president@westpascoaudubon.com
Keep Pasco Beautiful Earth Day Celebration, Saturday, April 26 at Crews Lake Wilderness Park in Spring Hill | Free
Celebrate Earth Day in one of Pasco’s beautiful county parks. Enjoy educational presentations and vendors and learn how to safely dispose of hazardous household materials and what can be recycled.
There will be the Nature Coast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society plant sale, upcycle vendors, ladybug release, and educational displays. Learn about many creatures with ambassadors from Dundee Farms, Florida Skunk Rescue, and Fox Tales Florida. Hits 106 will do a live remote from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension Service is offering two workshops at the event: Rain Barrel at 11 a.m. and Composting at 10 a.m. Seating is limited, and pre-registration is required for both workshops.
There will be a household hazardous waste collection onsite accepting items including lightbulbs, batteries, oil, gas and paint. Electronic recycling includes the disposal of 2 TVs for free. Visit the Pasco County Household Hazardous Waste page for detailed information on acceptable items. Document shredding by Shred 360 will take place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., with a limit of 3 boxes/bags per person. Bring in old thermostats or thermometers to properly dispose of mercury and receive a $5 gift card.
APRIL 27 – 30
Pasco County Parks & Rec | Wild Strokes: Animal Art for All Drop-In, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Sunday, April 27 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | Free
In this family-friendly adventure, we will capture the essence of Florida’s native landscape, the flatwood pines, while adding a delightful touch of whimsical wildlife.
Pasco County Parks & Rec | Pine Needle Weaving-Intermediate, 1:30 – 4 p.m. Sunday, April 27 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in NPR | $15
Create primitive pine needle baskets using natural materials and an intermediate skill level.
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
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
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)
To learn more about Pasco County Parks, including athletic leagues, rec centers, youth camps, amenities, and more, visit pascocountyfl.net/services/parks
Senior Outreach Programs
- Monthly Nature Crafts at Elfers Senior Center, 10 – 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 15 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. Thursday, April 17 at 8600 Galen Wilson Blvd, Port Richey. Call (727) 834-3340 to learn more and sign up.
Pasco County Parks & Rec Educational Programs
- Homeschool programs – Offerings include parent-assisted classes and drop-off programs that promote independence and socialization. Through hands-on activities in nature, students will explore topics ranging from environmental science to outdoor skills, while engaging with peers in a supportive environment.
- Tiny Trekkers – Designed for children ages 1 to 6, this engaging series of activities combines fun and exploration in Florida’s beautiful natural settings. Through guided nature walks, sensory play, and creative arts, children will develop essential motor skills while fostering their curiosity about the world around them.
- Tinkergarten – Classes last 60 minutes and include songs, movement, short stories, exploration, and purposeful play—all in the great outdoors. There are no walls; nature is our classroom, and creatures are our teachers. Each lesson connects children to the natural world using mud, sticks, and endless curiosity
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
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