October 2026
By Michele Miller
What’s What New Port Richey
Autumn. Most pleasantly, we’ve gotten a little taste, weather-wise, in a place where the calendar doesn’t always feel like it coincides with the seasons in an endless summer kind of way.
And so it goes that outdoor activities and offerings are ramping up with stalwart events such as the annual Cotee River Bike Fest in New Port Richey and the Scarecrow Fest at the Pioneer Florida Museum in Dade City, as well as Camping with the Blues if you’re keen on trekking over the northern border a bit to Brooksville, where the Florida Sand Ranch kicks off the start of music festivals to come under the Florida Oaks.
There’s a bevy of events and programs to be held in city, county and state parks and downtown squares, and on the Pasco County coastline, where the Anclote River Park Coastal Cleanup will be held on October 3.
Add to that outdoor concerts to take in the park and at that beach. Go for a guided night hike or day hike with members of Pasco Audubon eager to greet the returning migrating birds. Try your hand at archery, kayaking, or whatever else suits you.
And while you are out, make a special note to protect yourself in light of recent cases of dengue fever, a mosquito-borne illness with cases in Pasco and surrounding counties, and check your yards and properties for collected water that provides a breeding spot for mosquitoes.
For more on that……
Ongoing Offerings
Local Markets
City Parks
Pasco County Parks
Florida State Parks
StoryWalk®at the Park
Plan Ahead-Coming Attractions
More Calendars
OTB | The Sunset Beach Concert Series featuring Love Loaf, 7 p.m. Thursday, October 1 at Sunset Beach in Tarpon Springs | Free
The Sunset Beach annual Concert Series continues, featuring an eclectic line-up of concerts through November. Free Shuttle Service to and from Tarpon Springs High. No pets or alcohol. Bring chairs and blankets.
Pasco Audubon Society | Morning Nature & Birding Walk, 8-10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 3 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey | Free
Meet at 8 a.m. at the Education Center for a 1 – to 4-mile walk. Wear suitable shoes. Bring Water. Wear sunscreen.
For more info about this and other Pasco Audubon events, visit pascoaudubon.com
Pasco Audubon Educational Talk: Adventures in Colombia and Costa Rica w/Lunch, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturday, October 3 at the Education Center at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park | Free
The season opener for the monthly educational series will feature photographs, stories, and takeaways from Audubon’s intrepid travelers – we’ll also share some Latin food. More details to come. Visit the Pasco Audubon event page here for more information.
Pasco County Parks & Rec Coastal Clean-Up, 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. Saturday, October 3 at Anclote River Park in Holiday
Bring the whole family and help us give back to nature at Anclote River Park! Start by meeting our team at Shelter #2 to grab your clean-up kit, then head out to collect any litter that doesn’t belong in the park. For more on Pasco County Parks, Rec & Natural Resources, visit pascocountyfl.gov/services/parks
UF/IFAS Pasco County Extension | 10th Annual Gardening 365 Festival & Plant Sale, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, October 3 at Wesley Chapel District Park in Wesley Chapel
The festival offers a wide variety of vendors, a silent auction, live butterfly exhibit, kids’ zone, garden shoppe, seeds, live ladybugs, food and drink options, and SO much more!
Thrive on the Square Series featuring Biñho with Ramon Pagan, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturday, October 3 at Cavalaire Square in downtown New Port Richey | Free
This new monthly family-friendly event hosted by the City of New Port Richey has been extended through November 2026. All skill levels are welcome to attend all activities. Next date: November 14, 2026.
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Free Event | City of NPR Sunshine Sessions Day Rave, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Sunday, October 4 at Cavalaire Square in downtown New Port Richey | Free
Good vibes, sunshine, and uplifting energy are taking over Downtown New Port Richey Sunshine Sessions, an all-ages, family-friendly music experience happening at Cavalaire Square! Second Sundays extended throughout Fall! (Except Oct. due to Cotee River Bike Fest taking place the second Sunday that month). Next date: November 8, 2026.
Supported by the City of New Port Richey Cultural Affairs Committee, this series is designed to bring community, movement, and wellness together in a vibrant outdoor atmosphere.
UF/IFAS Pasco County Extension | Master Gardener Adopt a Pond Program Seminar, 6 – 7 p.m. Wednesday, October 7 at the Land O’Lakes Library
Learn about Pasco County’s Public Works Department Adopt-A-Pond and lake management program. This volunteer-driven initiative encourages you and your neighbors to adopt a stormwater pond and help remove invasive plants, plant native vegetation, and clean up trash and pollutants. Adopting a pond can help balance the needs of communities, wildlife, and aquatic plants by improving water quality, preventing stormwater pollution, maintaining plant diversity, and attracting wildlife.
Pasco Parks & Rec Outdoor Adventures | Beach Birding, 8-9 a.m. Friday, October 9 at Key Vista Nature Park in Holiday | $5
Naturalist-led trek through the beautiful coastal trails of Key Vista Park. Use our handy ‘Coastal Bird Bingo’ sheet to learn more about some of the unique shorebirds that call Florida home.
For more on Pasco County Parks, Rec & Natural Resources, visit pascocountyfl.gov/services/parks
Birding by Bike, 8 a.m. Saturday, October 10 at Chassahowitzka Wilderness Management Area in Citrus County | $6 park fee
The trail surface is hard-packed (not paved) but is not too difficult. Please bring water and snacks. This
website is a good source of information on biking in the Chassahowitzka Wilderness Management Area
Birding Big Day Contest, 8 a.m. Saturday, October 10
Tampa Audubon is coordinating a friendly competition to coincide with October Big Day. It’s free, and all are invited to participate. The rules are simple: just reach out to Mic McCarty at mic.mccarty@tampaaudubon.org for further info and to register.
For more info about this and other Pasco Audubon events, visit pascoaudubon.com
Cotee River Bike Fest, Sunday, October 11 in downtown New Port Richey
The three-day festival wraps up today in downtown New Port Richey.
UF/IFAS Pasco County Extension | Guided Coastal Nature Walk to Explore Native Ecosystems, 9 – 11 a.m. Thursday, October 15 at Werner Boyce State Park in Port Richey | Free
Sea Grand Agent Dr. Megan Moore will lead this guided walk to share information about coastal plants, animals, and ecosystems.
Cotee River Bike Fest, Friday, October 9 – Sunday, October 11 in downtown New Port Richey
What to expect –
Live music on two stages. Poker Run. Contests. Vendors. Food and drink. For information, visit the Cotee River Bike Fest FB page here.
Thrive at Night Yoga, 6 – 7 p.m. Wednesday, October 14, in Cavalaire Square in downtown New Port Richey
From the promo…
FREE all-levels community yoga designed to help you unwind, move, and reconnect. Bring your mat, water, and comfy clothes.
Environmental Committee Meeting, 6-7 p.m. Thursday, October 15 at the New Port Richey Library
The Environmental Committee offers advisory opinions and recommendations to the City Council on environmental issues facing the city, serves as the planning committee for the City’s major environmental events, and explores new environmental initiatives. All meetings are open to the public.
OTB | Camping with the Blues, October 16 – 18 at the Florida Sand Ranch in Brooksville with free concert on Thursday, October 15 | $35 – $100 | Free Parking
Three days of incredible blues music in a gorgeous setting. Camping is optional (note: electric & water sites are sold out. Might be some primitive sites available.
- Friday Show: $35 per person
- Saturday Show: $65 per person
- Sunday Show: $35 per person.
- Weekend pass: $100 per person.
- CHILDREN AGES 15 AND UNDER ARE FREE WITH A TICKETED ADULT
For more info and tickets, visit campingwiththeblues.com
Pasco Parks & Rec Outdoor Adventure | Guided Kayaking Trip, 9 – 11 a.m. at Robert K. Resse Memorial Park in New Port Richey | $30
Explore Pasco’s intercoastal with an experienced guide to lead the way! Enjoy the sounds and smells of a saltwater ecosystem and learn what makes up this habitat. What are these floating pieces of jelly? What makes an anhinga special? Find out the answers to these questions and more with the Pasco Outdoors team. Registration required.
For more on Pasco County Parks, Rec & Natural Resources, visit pascocountyfl.gov/services/parks
New Port Richey Parks & Rec | Park Friends – Crafting in the Park, 5 – 7 p.m. Saturday, October 17 in Cavalaire Square in downtown New Port Richey | Free
Come out for an evening of crafting for all ages and skill levels!
Majesty of Rock – Journey Tribute Band, 4-5:30 p.m. Saturday, October 17 at the Starkey Ranch Theatre, Library & Cultural Center | $13
Enjoy the wonderful music of Journey performed live by the Majesty of Rock band. Tickets are on sale for $13 each, plus tax and fees. Starkey Ranch Friends of the Library will provide concession items for cash donations. Concert tickets can be purchased at bit.ly/SRTheatreTickets
New Port Richey Parks &Rec | Free Concert in the Park Series featuring T.L. Jentgens, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Saturday, October 17, in Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey
From the promo…
TL Jentgens brings his full production to the Sims Park stage. Known for his explosive combination of live drumming, powerful vocals, electronic dance music, dazzling lights, video effects, and crowd interaction, TL Jentgens delivers a one-man show that transforms into a full-scale party.
Join the Drum Circle Before the Concert starting at 5 p.m. in Sims Park
New Port Richey Library Riverside Concert Series featuring Lily Holbrook, 6 – 7 p.m. Friday, October 23 in Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey | Free
From the promo….
From New York City to Los Angeles, Lily Holbrook has captivated audiences with her enchanting voice and folk-rock sound. Now based in St. Petersburg, the acclaimed singer-songwriter blends heartfelt music with a passion for activism, using her songs to inspire and champion causes close to her heart.
Come hungry! Smash & Grab will be on site, serving up some fresh, made-to-order smash burgers during the show.
This performance will take place in the southwest corner of Sims Park, near the Grassin Bridge. Please feel free to bring a blanket or chair for seating.
Fourth Friday Block Party & Bazaar, 6 – 10 p.m. October 23 and on the fourth Friday of each month in downtown New Port Richey
The market takes place on the Fourth Friday of each month in Historic Downtown New Port Richey.
The Bazaar will feature artisanal artists, makers, bakers, and local businesses selling handmade goods, jewelry, art, woodwork, gifts, and so much more
Pasco Audubon Field Trip to Fort DeSoto Park, 8 a.m. Saturday, October 24 in Pinellas County
Fort De Soto Park is located at 3500 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, Florida.
Details were scant at publication time. For more info about this and other Pasco Audubon events, visit pascoaudubon.com
Pasco County Parks & Rec Outdoor Adventures | Withlaspooky Night Hike, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Saturday, October 24 at Withlacoochee River Park in Dade City | $5
Take a guided hike through Withlacoochee River Park during the dusk hours. Participants will explore the unique world that comes to life as the sun goes down. We will listen to and look for nocturnal animals and get to know what special adaptations these creatures have to thrive in the dark. Come see the beauty of Withlacoochee during dusk and meet the ‘spooky’ creatures that call this place home! Registration required.
For more on Pasco County Parks, Rec & Natural Resources, visit pascocountyfl.gov/services/parks
Pasco Parks & Rec Outdoor Adventures | Early Bird Hike, 7:30 – 9 a.m. Tuesday, October 27 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey | $5
Looking for an easy way to spend the morning? Ease into the day and enjoy the fresh air on this Naturalist-led trek along the scenic trails of Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park. Registration required.
For more on Pasco County Parks, Rec & Natural Resources, visit pascocountyfl.gov/services/parks
Pasco Parks & Rec Outdoor Adventures | Ghost Hunters! Archery Session, 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., Saturday, October 31 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey | $15
Come out to Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park on Saturday, October 31st for a spooky-themed archery class! Ghosts and ghouls are out and about, and it’s YOUR job to hunt them down. Instructors will teach you how to take aim and fire, so whether you are a beginner or experienced archer, you are guaranteed to have a hauntingly good time. All equipment will be provided. * Closed-toe shoes are required! No Crocs or sandals.* Registration required.
For more on Pasco County Parks, Rec & Natural Resources, visit pascocountyfl.gov/services/parks
OTB | 2026 – 2027 Season of Music Under the Stars at the Florida Sand Music Ranch in Brooksville | Concerts and Camping
Live music, shaded campsites, weekend festivals, and the kind of old Florida charm you can’t fake. Florida Sand Music Ranch is your place to camp, gather, and stay awhile.
For information about the ranch, upcoming concerts, and to purchase tickets, go to floridasandmusicranch.com
Florida Bug Jam is Scheduled for November 6 – 8 at the Pasco County Fairgrounds in Dade City. Sign up to be an exhibitor or vendor now
From the promo…..
Get ready for a weekend of Volkswagens, sunshine, music, and everything we love about the Sunshine State! The 38th Annual Florida Bug Jam rolls into the Pasco County Fairgrounds in Dade City, Florida, November 7-8 for another unforgettable weekend celebrating all things Volkswagen.
With more than 700 show vehicles and over 10,000 spectators last year, Florida Bug Jam has grown into the largest Volkswagen car show in the Southeast — bringing together VW enthusiasts, clubs, families, collectors, builders, vendors, and fans from across Florida and beyond.
Register at floridabugjam.com
FarmNet Annual Community Dinner, 5:30 p.m. Saturday, November 7, in Peace Hall in downtown New Port Richey | Covered Dish or $25
New Port Richey FarmNet invites the community to the annual Community Dinner served buffet style. Labeled vegan or vegetarian dishes are preferred. Animal protein is allowed and requested to be clearly labeled as such. To make a reservation, email Dell deChant at ddechant@tampabay.rr.com or Amanda Zborek at ajozborek@gmail.com.
Get tickets to area museums and theatrical performances at Richey Suncoast for FREE with Your Library Card!!!
Check out the New Port Richey Library’s Theatre Pass Program and the Pasco County Libraries Discovery Pass Program, where you can use your library card as your ticket to the theatre! As part of the Theatre Pass Program with the Richey Suncoast Theatre, your library card will get you two tickets to a theatre show. To register, fill out the registration form for your desired showing. Seating is assigned by the Richey Suncoast Theatre. If you require special accommodations, please get in touch with the theater at 727-842-6777. Click here for info.
The Pasco County Libraries Discover Pass Program also grants two tickets to area museums, including the Glazer Children’s Museum, the Florida Holocaust Museum, the Imagine Museum, the Tampa Bay History Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg.
New Port Richey Walk & Talk Club, 10 – 11 a.m. each Monday in downtown New Port Richey
Explore different destinations around New Port Richey to walk to each week. Explore the city and make new friends, all while getting in some exercise! The walk will begin and end at the New Port Richey Public Library. Meet in the courtyard.
For information about this event or other events at the New Port Richey Public Library, visit the New Port Richey Library Event Calendar.
Pasco Audubon Birding 102, Wednesdays at various locations
Duration of 2 – 3 hours. Different locations that are not published online. Those who want to be kept informed of the weekly location should sign up for the activity and receive an email with the week’s Wednesday location on Monday. Send a request to info@pascoaudubon.com.
Tasty Tuesdays Community Market, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. each Tuesday at the New Port Richey Library
The weekly market is located in the courtyard of the New Port Richey Public Library at 5939 Main Street, New Port Richey. The market is open every Tuesday, rain or shine, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Find locally sourced foods, sustainably grown produce, cottage-industry baked goods, hand-made items, and more.
Fourth Friday Block Party & Bazaar, 6 – 10 p.m. on the fourth Friday of each month in downtown New Port Richey
The market takes place on the Fourth Friday of each month in Historic Downtown New Port Richey.
The Bazaar will feature artisanal artists, makers, bakers, and local businesses selling handmade goods, jewelry, art, woodwork, gifts, and so much more
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 manatee.
Other Parks include Cotee River Park, Frances Avenue Park, Grand Boulevard Park, Jasmin Park, Meadow Dog Park, Sims Park, and the New Port Richey Recreation and Aquatics Center.
PHOTO | MICHELE MILLER
For more information, visit www.cityofnewportrichey.org/Departments/Parks-and-Recreation
Link To
Parks & Facilities
Recreation & Aquatic Center
Resevervations
Signature Events | Applications
Pasco Parks & Rec manages and protects over 15,000 acres of land, offering access to:
- 6,900+ Acres of preserved land
- 23 Active Parks for sports, play, and family fun
- 18 Wilderness Parks & Preserves for hiking, biking, paddling, and wildlife watching
LINK TO
Parks Directory
Recreation Centers
Adaptive & Inclusive Recreation Program
Aquatics
Athletics – Youth
Conservation – Natural Resources
Outdoor Adventures
Reservations (camping, courts, etc.) & Events
Pasco County is home to the Werner-Boyce Salt Springs Park in Port Richey. Bring your own kayak or canoe to navigate the mangroves or rent a vessel for the day at Salty Dog Kayak Rentals.
Over the Border State Parks to Consider
Honeymoon Island State Park
Weeki Wachee Springs State Park
(featuring the famous mermaids and Buccaneer Bay Theme Park)
Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
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More Local News and Calendars
A StoryWalk® is an outdoor reading activity that allows children, families, and people of all ages to read a story while walking along a nature trail. Pages of a story are placed on posts on a trail, combining literacy and physical activity into one enjoyable experience.
- James E. Grey Preserve, 6938 Plathe Road, New Port Richey. First installed in March of 2020, our StoryWalk® takes you down a 1/4 mile trail through the preserve, reading a story together along the way. A new story is installed three times a year, each featuring additional early literacy activities and interactive tasks to enhance the story as you go.
- Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, New Port Richey. Includes 18 reading station posts installed along a 0.20-mile nature trail loop on the back-left side of the playground area.
- Withlacoochee River Park, 12249 Withlacoochee Blvd., Dade City. Withlacoochee StoryWalk®, located in Dade City, is a 0.30-mile trail with 18 posts.
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