Stepping Out on the Town | Centennial Celebrations, Halloween Events and More – October 2024

Centennial Events, Comedy, Rocky Horror, Fall Fests & Halloween Events are all on the October calendar. Check it out.

The 2024 Witches and Warlocks Paddle Parade will be held during the City's Centennial Celebration on Sunday, October 27 at Sims Park in New Port Richey. Photo | Michele Miller

Updated October 21, 2024

By Michele Miller
What’s What New Port Richey

Note – Since the original publication of this calendar, organizers of the Cotee River Bike Fest have opted to postpone the event until January 2025. Monufest, Hurricane Relief Events and library events have also been canceled or postponed. In the wake of the recent devastation to local residents and the strain being on so many there are likely to be more.

Will do our best to let you know when we know if events listed below have been canceled or postponed, but readers should be sure to access accompanying links or check with the establishment before heading out to make sure events are still happening.


If any time we were in need of a laugh it’s now. A night out. A time to learn a dance step or listen to a soulful tune or a local symphony. A movie that makes you think of something else. A painting on the wall.

The arts are an incredible healing force even in the worst of times – a source of comfort, hope, and escape. Purchasing a ticket for someone who could use a pick-me-up and for yourself is a need or a wish to be met. Doesn’t have to cost you a thing as there are more than a few free events listed below.

Scroll down to see what you or someone else might fancy.

Keep moving. We’ve got this.

M



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October 1 – 5
October 6 -12
October 13 – 19
October 20 – 26
October 27 – 31
Fall & Halloween Events



October 1-5


Lynne Simone Art Exhibition, through October 25 at the PHSC Rao Musunuru, M.D. Art Gallery in New Port Richey.

From the promo… Simone has displayed work in several galleries in the Tampa Bay Area including the Uptown (City Hall) Gallery in Brooksville, Morean Art Center in St. Petersburg, and the Stirling Gallery in Dunedin.

The New Barker Magazine featured one of her paintings on their cover in 2022 and she participated in Hernando County’s Mermaid Tail Trail in 2023, painting a statue named Mother Nature. For more visit phsc.edu/campus-life/rao-musunuru-md-art-gallery


Richey Community Orchestra tickets for the 2024 – 2025 season go on sale on October 1 with the opening concert on November 10 at the Center for the Arts at River Ridge

Richey Community Orchestra performs six shows – four concerts at the Center for the Arts at River Ridge and two dinner shows – which sell fast – at Spartan Manor. For information, visit richeycommunityorchestra.com


Dancing Through the Decades Introductory Dance Classes, 4 – 5 p.m. Wednesdays starting October 2 at the NPR Library in downtown New Port Richey. This is an ongoing class.

Dance your way through the decades as you learn the basics of the foxtrot, swing, and more. For information, visit newportrichey.librarycalendar.com/event/dancing-through-decades.


Old Guys Rule Comedy Show, 7 p.m. Friday, October 4 at the Richey Suncoast Theatre in downtown New Port Richey | $16.25 – $151.25 (VIP Box) including fees

This trio is a stand-up comedy, ventriloquist, and musical comedy all-in-one show! They are presently the funniest, most unique, and timely variety comedy show in the country. For information on the comedians performing and for tickets access the RST calendar here.


Downtown NPR Historical Walking Tours, 6 p.m. Saturday, October 5 and 19 at the West Pasco Historical Society in New Port Richey | Free

Learn the stories behind the city’s historic buildings and get a glimpse into what life was like for its early citizens. For information, visit www.100npr.org/events/historical-walking-tours




More Local Live Music Gigs

Thursday, October 3

Friday, October 4

Saturday, October 5



October 6 – 12



CANCELED – World Space Week – To Infinity & Beyond, 5:30 – 7 p.m. Thursday, October 10 at the New Port Richey Library | Free

NASA Solar System Ambassador James Paradise will discuss the current state of space exploration and what our interstellar future holds in store for us! For information, visit newportrichey.librarycalendar.com/event/world-space-week-infinity-and-beyond


CANCELED | Local Live Music Pick | I’m a Soul Man Concert, 6-7 p.m. Thursday, October 10 at the Hudson Regional Library in Hudson | Free


Billy Buchanan will perform songs from Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, The Platters, The Drifters, Luther Vandross, Motown superstars, and more! This concert is free and open to all, but seating is limited.


Lectures at the Ranch with Ryan Moralevitz, 6:30 p.m. October 10 at the Starkey Ranch TLC in Odessa | Free

Local teen Ryan Moralevitz has gotten some notoriety for his talent for turning ocean trash into art. His work has been displayed at Tampa International Airport, at the Carnival Cruise Terminal in Tampa, and at the Dunedin Art Center. He also runs his own nonprofit dedicated to waterway conservation and has published two books.


A Haunted History of Pasco County with Pasco County historian, Madonna Wise, 6 p.m. Friday, October 11 at Spartan Manor in New Port Richey | $5

Noted Pasco County historian, genealogist and author Madonna Wise will be here to tell us about some of the folklore of haunted places in Pasco County. Madonna’s latest book will be available for purchase and signing. NOTE: This is NOT a ghost tour or paranormal event … it is a speaking event by Madonna Wise.

Admission: $5.00 at the door, WPHS members free.

Due to high interest in this event, you must RSVP by clicking this link to send an email to; westpascohistoricalsociety@gmail.com. Entry to the event will be limited to those persons who are on the RSVP list.


POSTPONEDComic Relief Showcase, 7 p.m. Friday, October 11 at the Richey Suncoast Theatre in downtown NPR | Pay What You Will Donation

Like so many of us, Richey Suncoast Theatre wants to help with the relief efforts after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc on our local community.All donations for tickets for the comic relief event and benefit concert will go to local Hurricane relief organizations. For tickets and to donate visit the Richey Suncoast Event Calendar.


POSTPONED!! Sisters & Brothers Benefit Concert featuring The Black Honkeys, 7 p.m. Saturday, October 12 at the Richey Suncoast Theatre in downtown NPR | $40 +


The Black Honkeys Band are local music royalty and we are so thankful that they have chosen to perform at RST. Their special mix of Motown, Funk, Soul, and Rock n Roll is truly a sight to behold. Admission includes 2 free drinks from the concession stand. For tickets visit the Richey Suncoast Event Calendar.

POSTPONED!!! Cotee River Bike Fest, Friday, October 11 – Sunday, October 13 in downtown New Port Richey | Free admission

Note from the organizers…

Due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, we have made the difficult decision to reschedule this year’s Cotee River Bike Fest. Our priority is the safety of our community and ensuring the best experience for everyone. New Dates: January 17, 18, 19



More Local Live Music Gigs

Thursday, October 10

  • Sam Clyatt & the Boys Open Jam, 7 p.m. at

Friday, October 11

Saturday, October 12



October 13 – 19



Postponed!!! Happy Birthday New Port Richey Exhibit & Opening Reception, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Sunday, October 13 at the West Pasco Art Guild & Gallery in downtown NPRRescheduled for October 20

Area artists celebrate the New Port Richey’s Centennial with a special art exhibit at the West Pasco Art Guild & Gallery, 6206 Jefferson St, New Port Richey,



CANCELED Camping With the Blues, October 18 – 20 at the Florida Sand Music Ranch in Brooksville

An abundance of blues music over three days and under the stars featuring some local/area bands such as Julie Black and T-Bone Hamilton. RV campsites tend to sell early get on it now. For tickets and info go to floridasandmusicranch.com/camping-with-the-blues


Rocky Horror Picture Show, October 18, 19 ( and 25 and 26) at the Richey Suncoast Theatre in downtown New Port Richey | $15 & up

From the promo – In this cult classic, sweethearts Brad (Barry Bostwick) and Janet (Susan Sarandon), stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Tim Curry), a transvestite scientist. As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rocking biker (Meat Loaf) and a creepy butler (Richard O’Brien). Through elaborate dances and rock songs, Frank-N-Furter unveils his latest creation: a muscular man named “Rocky.” Access the RST calendar or get your tickets.


CANCELED | Live Music Pick | Monufest, October 18 – 19 at Ordinance One in downtown New Port Richey | $5 – $20

Ashtray Monument Records is hosting a party in our hometown of New Port Richey. lineup and tickets visit www.ashtraymonument.com/monufest


Canceled | Music at the Museum featuring Mark Johnson and Emory Lester with Ken Taylor, 5 – 8 p.m. Saturday, October 18 at the Pioneer Florida Museum in Dade City | Tickets are presale only | $20 | $10 students general admission

Get ready for a night of incredible music with Mark Johnson, Emory Lester, and Ken Taylor at the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village. These talented musicians are sure to put on a show you won’t forget! Join us for a night of foot-tapping tunes and good vibes. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind outdoor concert experience! This event is a fundraiser for the Pioneer Florida Museum a 501(c)3 non-profit. For tickets and information, visit www.pioneerfloridamuseum.org/events


Live Music Pick | Cello Rocks! with Theresa Villani, 6 p.m. Friday, October 18 at the New Port Richey Library | Free

Villani will be playing in the genres of jazz, pop, blues, rock n’ roll, Broadway, and even the Grateful Dead. She has performed throughout North America, everywhere from Chicago to Mexico City, with grand orchestras as well as more intimate concerts at libraries across the state. Y


Downtown NPR Historical Walking Tours, 6 p.m. Saturday, October 19 at the West Pasco Historical Society in New Port Richey | Free

Learn the stories behind the city’s historic buildings and get a glimpse into what life was like for its early citizens. For information, visit www.100npr.org/events/historical-walking-tours



More live music gigs

Thursday, October 17

Friday, October 18

Saturday, October 19


Looking for things to do outdoors? Well, here you go.



October 20 – 26




Happy Birthday New Port Richey! Art Exhibit & Opening Reception, 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. Sunday, October 20 at the West Pasco Art Guild in New Port Richey


Area artists celebrate New Port Richey’s Centennial with a special art exhibit at the West Pasco Art Guild & Gallery, 6206 Jefferson St, New Port Richey,


Ha-Ha-Halloween with Richey Suncoast Rogues Improv Comedy Troupe, 7 p.m. Tuesday, October 22 at Peace Hall in Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey | Free

The all-new Richey Suncoast Rogues take the stage for the first time with a Halloween and Horror Themed Improv Comedy Show. Come on out for the laughs and celebrate the hard work that the troupe has put into learning all about improv over the last 2 months.


Rocky Horror Picture Show, October 25 and 26 at the Richey Suncoast Theatre in downtown New Port Richey | $15 and up

From the promo – In this cult classic, sweethearts Brad (Barry Bostwick) and Janet (Susan Sarandon), stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Tim Curry), a transvestite scientist. As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rocking biker (Meat Loaf) and a creepy butler (Richard O’Brien). Through elaborate dances and rock songs, Frank-N-Furter unveils his latest creation: a muscular man named “Rocky.” Access the RST calendar or get your tickets.





Florida Territory! Living History Event, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, October 26 at the Pioneer Florida Museum in Dade City | $12 for adults | $6 for students

Among the events

  • Catch a 16th Century arms exhibition featuring: Armed combat between conquistadors and privateers, the Spanish Tercio in combined arms, a demonstration of matchlock muskets, and more.
  •  Experience Seminole artistry and culture presented by members of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, featuring: dugout canoes, bead and bandolier bag work, native flute, Seminole stickball and 20th Century Seminole culture.
  • Learn about the War of 1812 and how it affected Florida
  • Take in history from acclaimed authors, scholars, and lecturers including Dale Cox, Dr. Annette Fromm, and Patsy West.
  • Barehanded Alligator handling demonstrations at 11 am and 2 pm on Saturday.

For information visit www.pioneerfloridamuseum.org/events


Check out the events happening during the City of New Port Richey’s 2-day Centennial Celebration



Live Music Pick – New Port Richey Library Riverside Concert Series, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Saturday, October 26 at the southwest corner of Sims Park near the Grassin Bridge in downtown NPR | Free

From the promo…The Sandy Back Porch band has been delighting audiences throughout Florida for years. Its members play a range of instruments including guitars, banjoes, and fiddles, and have roots in bluegrass, country, and more.


Live Music Pick | Alter Eagles Tribute Concert, 7 p.m. Saturday, October 26 at the Starkey Ranch TLC in Odessa | $13

Pasco County Libraries presents “Saturday Sounds” Tribute Shows, October – January at the Starkey Theatre, Library & Cultural Center in Odessa


Live Music Pick | The Dade City Symphony presents ‘The Magic of Music’ at 7 p.m. Saturday, October 26 at the Pasco Middle School auditorium in Dade City | Free

The Dade City Symphony is a volunteer organization comprised of adult amateur, professional, and retired professional musicians from the Dade City, Zephyrhills, and surrounding Central Florida communities. For information visit dadecitysymphony.org

More Local Live Music Gigs

Thursday, October 24

Friday, October 25

Saturday, October 26

Photo Courtesy Celtic Conundrum


October 27 – 31



Check out the events happening during the City of New Port Richey’s 2-day Centennial Celebration


More Live Music Gigs

Thursday, October 31


Check out events and programs at area libraries



Fall & Halloween Events



Spooky Train and Scary Trails, 7 – 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays throughout October at the Grand Concourse Railroad in Spring Hill. | $8 – $20 | Children under 24 months are free | Senior & Veteran Discounts

Take a 10 to 15-minute ride aboard a 7.5″ scale railroad through the woods of our host property. We call it spooky, not scary, as it’s geared toward easily startled viewers. There is less to scare you, but plenty to see.


Murder Mystery, 6 – 7:30 p.m. Monday, October 7 at the Regency Park Library in New Port Richey

It’s the 1950s and there’s been a murder! Orsen Hells has been found murdered in the props hanger at Studio 5 at the Fairbanks Film Company in Hollywood. It is up to you all to figure out who’s done it!

As you will be playing a role in this murder mystery game, we highly recommend dressing up as there is a chance to win a prize at the end of the game. There will be dinner and dessert included with this program. Registration required.

Canceled! Scarecrow Festival, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. October 12 at the Pioneer Florida Museum in Dade City | $10 adults, $5 students, under 5 free. Parking is free – parking donations are appreciated, but not required

Experience the most extraordinary Fall Festival of the year at this annual event and cast a vote for your favorite scarecrow.

Pumpkin Patch, Pumpkin Painting, Build Your Own Scarecrow, Pony Rides, Face Painting, Pharaohs Wildlife Kingdom, Costume Contest, Children’s Games with prizes, Children’s make and take Arts and Crafts, Live Entertainment, Vendors, Food Trucks, Traditional Craft Demonstrations, Blacksmith, Model Trains, Gigi the Stiltwalking Scarecrow (formerly a Ringling Brother’s Clown), photo ops, ZHS FFA Petting Zoo, Pasco Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, all museum buildings open and more. For information visit www.pioneerfloridamuseum.org/events


HUBoween, 6-10 p.m. October 25 and 26 at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey. Advanced Tickets are $20 per vehicle | Night of $25 | VIP $100


Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, October 25 at Veterans Memorial Park in Hudson | Ages 8-13 | Free

Use your cellphone camera and search for the cutout pumpkins throughout our park. Prizes and candy for the first 100 children 13 and under who complete the scavenger hunt (while supplies last)! Wear comfortable shoes.

*The day of the event stop by the rec center to collect your scavenger hunt card! For more information, please call 727.861.3033.


Witches & Warlocks Annual Halloween Paddle, 12 p.m. Sunday, October 27 on the Pithlachascotee River River in downtown NPR


Catch the event happening during the city’s Centennial Weekend Celebration in Sims Park.


A.F.I.R.E. Pumpkin Patch and Fall Market, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. October 26-27 at 754 Ridge Road in Port Richey


Rhymes to Readers Storybook Parade, 1 – 2 p.m. Thursday, October 31 at the New Port Richey Library

This week’s storytime is also one of the cutest days of the year: the annual Trick-or-Treat Parade!

Rhymes to Readers Storytime will begin at 1 pm with some fun Halloween stories, rhymes, and songs for little ones. Afterward, everyone will line up and begin trick-or-treating around City Hall to visit each City department. Costumes are encouraged, and don’t forget to bring something to hold your candy, too! For more info visit newportrichey.librarycalendar.com/event/rhymes-readers-trick-or-treat-parade.


Trick or Treat in Downtown NPR, Thursday, October 31 on Grand Boulevard and Main Street

Trick or Treat Downtown NPR brings our community together for a night of safe, fun, and FREE Halloween magic! This event invites everyone to express their creativity, connect with friends and neighbors, and enjoy an unforgettable evening of spooky fun!

  • Harvest Moon Trunk or Treat, 4:30 p.m. until dark at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 7831 Gulf Highlands Drive, Port Richey.
  • Mall-o-ween Event, 5-8 p.m. October 31 at the Gulf View Square Mall in Port Richey.