The week of November 5, 2026
Good morning, neighbors. The clocks are back, the weather is turning, and the fair is open. Here's what's happening close to home. Grab your coffee and let's get into it.
The Hillsborough County Fair opens tonight
The fair runs Thursday, Nov. 5 through Sunday, Nov. 15 at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. Opening night, gates are open 5 to 10 p.m. and the carnival runs until 11 p.m. Gate hours change by day, so here's the schedule:
Questions? Call the fair office at (813) 737-3247.
The food is always a big draw when my family goes. Funnel cake and Steak Bites are a MUST. How about you?
NEED TO KNOW
Get Outside: Free Nature Kickoff at Keystone Park
Looking for a reason to get outside and enjoy the cooler weather? Hillsborough County is kicking off the new season with a free outdoor celebration at Keystone Park and Recreation Center in Odessa on Saturday, Nov. 7.
The event runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 17928 Gunn Highway, and there's no registration required.
Visitors can take part in guided hikes, learn something new during nature talks and workshops, make nature-inspired crafts, and browse information tables hosted by local outdoor and environmental organizations. Food trucks will be on hand, and there will also be exclusive event merchandise available.
It's a nice opportunity to explore the outdoors, discover local environmental groups, and spend a few hours enjoying one of the area's parks—all without spending a dime to attend.
Honoring Our Heroes: Hillsborough County's 62nd Veterans Day Tribute
Free community event
Wednesday, November 11, 2026
This year's ceremony carries extra significance: it coincides with the 250th anniversary of America's founding. Hillsborough County is bringing the community together to honor veterans from every generation and every branch of military service.
What makes this year's event special?
JROTC Color Guard: Local student cadets will open the ceremony with a patriotic presentation.
Veterans Council Awards: Recognition of individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the veteran community.
A musical salute: A sing-along honoring all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Distinguished speakers: Retired Coast Guard Rear Adm. Steve Poulin and retired Army Col. Roland Tiso.
Community fellowship: Refreshments and an opportunity to connect with veterans and military families afterward.
Trash and recycling: Hillsborough County curbside collection runs as normal on Veterans Day (Nov. 11). There is no collection on Thanksgiving, Thu., Nov. 26, and the county does not offer make-up days. (County customers only; City of Tampa customers should check tampa.gov.)
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THIS WEEKEND
Keystone Park & Recreation Center, Odessa, Sat., Nov. 7, 9:00 am
Hiking Spree Kickoff
Guided hikes, talks with park rangers and local experts, booths from outdoor clubs and environmental groups, nature crafts for kids and food trucks, plus a preview of the new season's rewards. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. No alcohol on park property, and the event may be canceled for weather. CLICK HERE to learn more.
Shakespeare in the Courtyard, Sat., Nov. 7, 2:30 to 4 p.m
Short scenes from Shakespeare's plays at the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Dr., Odessa. Free.
Craft fair, Sat. Nov. 7, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m
“Shop Local, Snack Local: Craft Fair Returns to Carrollwood”
The 11th annual craft fair at Village Presbyterian Church, 13115 S. Village Dr., Tampa, with live music and baked goods. The 11th Annual Craft Fair runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Village Presbyterian Church in Carrollwood. Expect more than 40 vendors offering handmade arts and crafts, plants and unique gift items. There will also be live music and a bake sale sponsored by the church's Presbyterian Women.
Our Little Secret….shhh
Every week, we'll spotlight food or drink worth discovering right here in our community. From hidden gems and must-try menu items to local favorites you might not know about.
Think of it as our little local secret… shared with you.
WORTH THE DRIVE
Cars at the Corner, Lutz
On the first Friday of every month, 6 to 9 p.m., local car owners gather in the Willow Bend Towne Centre lot in front of Capriotti's Sandwich Shop, 1948 Collier Parkway in Lutz (southeast corner of Collier Parkway and State Road 54). That's tomorrow night, Fri., Nov. 6. Entry is $5 and includes a $5 discount on a meal at Capriotti's.
Click Map for directions
Organizer Paul Figoni: (813) 468-0277.
AROUND THE AREA THIS WEEK
Thu., Nov. 5
🎡 Hillsborough County Fair opens, 5 p.m., Dover.
🏒 Lightning vs. Chicago, 7 p.m., Benchmark International Arena.
Fri., Nov. 6
🚗 Cars at the Corner, 6 to 9 p.m., Lutz.
🎡 County Fair, gates 5 to 10 p.m.
Sat., Nov. 7
🥾 Hiking Spree kickoff, Keystone Park, Odessa.
🎭 Shakespeare in the Courtyard, 2:30 p.m., Starkey Ranch.
🎡 County Fair, gates noon to 10 p.m.
🏒 Lightning at Minnesota, 8 p.m.
Sun., Nov. 8
🎡 County Fair, gates noon to 10 p.m.
🏒 Lightning at Winnipeg, 6 p.m.
🏈 Bucs at Bears, 8:20 p.m. on Sunday Night Football.
Wed., Nov. 11
Veterans Day tribute, 10 a.m.
🚶 Senior Fitness Walk, Citrus Park Town Center, 10:30 a.m. Free every Wednesday; meet at the Dick's Sporting Goods entrance. Call (813) 494-6376.
SAVE THE DATE
Sat., Nov. 14: Carrollwood Market, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the park at Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Rd. Local produce, baked goods, plants, handcrafts and live music. Dog-friendly.
Nov. 13 to 22: Patsy, Dolly, Tammy and Loretta, Carrollwood Players, 4333 Gunn Hwy. Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m.
Thu., Nov. 19: Great American Teach-In, Hillsborough County Public Schools. Have a career to share? Check with your child's school.
Open Spots, what should they be?
Th Plaza is looking amazing, just needs a few more locations filled. Any Guesses?
ONE LAST THING
Share your fair photos with us, with permission, especially if there are kids in them, and we may feature them next week. Know about a new business or something fun happening in the neighborhood? Just reply to this email. I read every one.
See you next Thursday, — Citrus Park & Carrollwood Weekly
