A cold snap, the colored lights spinning at the North Florida Fair and First Friday yank November into sharp focus.
The year is on the downward slide of the tilt-a-whirl. Grab on and enjoy the ride.
Love live music? Support your local venues, if you can. We were sad to hear The Sound Bar made the tough decision this week to close down at the end of the month.
The home teams are away, with Florida State at Clemson for the football game at 7 p.m. Nov. 8, and FAMU at Arkansas-Pine Bluff with a 3 p.m. start.
Here’s a roundup of entertaining events around Tallahassee, culled from emails, the Council on Culture & Arts, online listings and elsewhere.
1. Ride into fun at 83rd Annual North Florida Fair
Can you smell the cotton candy and the corn dogs? Can you hear the screams of delighted fear from the stomach-churning rides? The 83rd Annual North Florida Fair gets twirling from Nov. 6-Nov. 16 at the North Florida Fairgrounds, 441 Paul Russell Road. Ticket prices vary with special deals on certain days. Visit northfloridafair.com.
Don’t forget to check out the local exhibits of fancy chickens, rabbits, goats and pigs and homemade jellies. The annual tradition celebrates the best of North Florida with rides, fair food, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun.
2. Catch John Williams Cinematic Celebration with the TSO
Let’s go to the movies with The John Williams Cinematic Celebration, a live concert experience with the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra, at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, at the Adderley Amphitheater in Cascades Park.
First Commerce Credit Union is celebrating 85 years of serving the community with this evening of cinematic magic, in partnership with Leon County and Scott Carswell Presents. The TSO will perform popular music from “Star Wars,” “Indiana Jones,” “Harry Potter,” “Jurassic Park,” “Superman,” and “Jaws.”
Under the direction of TSO Music Director and Conductor Yaniv Dinur, the evening promises a stunning blend of nostalgia and awe. Families, film lovers, and music enthusiasts are encouraged to come in costume as their favorite characters and enjoy the magic of live music under the stars.
Tickets start at $32, available at TheAdderleyAmphitheater.com. Food trucks and beverage stations will be available throughout the park. Gates will open at 6 p.m. with the Orchestra slated to begin playing at 7:30 p.m. Cascades Park will be alive with pre-show fun and family activities.
3. Funk activists Bassel & the Supernaturals make Tallahassee debut
Touring funk/soul fusion ensemble and activist group Bassel & The Supernaturals makes its first appearance in Tallahassee for Opening Nights at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12, at Opperman Music Hall. Tickets are $50. Visit openingnights.fsu.edu.
With Syrian heart and Midwest soul, Bassel & The Supernaturals led by Syrian-American singer Bassel Almadani, tells the story of Almadani’s experience as a first generation Syrian-American using soulful melodies, funk inspired rhythms, and captivating lyrics regarding love, loss, otherness, and the war in Syria. Their band’s work revolves around humanitarian and refugee efforts.
4. Celebrate musical traditions at Blue Tavern
Need a chance to sit, drink a beverage, and relax for a second? Stop by the Blue Tavern, 1206 N. Monroe St., at 5 p.m. to catch Brian Durham and Chris Skene. Secure a spot for Miss Mango at 8 p.m. when newly Grammy-nominated Paddy League returns to the tavern for an intimate evening of original songs inspired by Irish, Greek, Brazilian, and American traditions – joined by surprise special guests. $10 cover.
The 2nd Saturday Old Time Jam gets jammin’ at 4 p.m. at Blue Tavern, then Los Angeles-based Bar Jay Bar brings a smash-up to the stage at 8 p.m. The band mixes old-time country and folk influences into a vocal-harmony, hoe-down grooving, sarcasm dripping hoot of a show. $10 cover.
5. Events support veterans at American Legion
Put on your dancing shoes and help support local veterans when The Highway 59 Band plays at The American Legion, 229 Lake Ella Drive, on Friday, Nov. 7. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the live music is from 7:30-10 p.m. for a fundraiser for Tallahassee Veterans Village. Admission is $10.
All proceeds will go to support the Tallahassee Veterans Village, a community dedicated to providing support and resources for veterans. The Village houses veterans who are at risk of homelessness or who are homeless. The program provides transitional housing and supportive services to homeless Veterans to stabilize and prepare them for a life of independence.
Leon County and the American Legion Sauls-Bridges Post 13 team up for Operation Thank You Veterans Day Breakfast from 6:30-9 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11, at the Legion Hall, 229 Lake Ella Drive. At 8 a.m., a ceremony honoring the service and sacrifice of those who served our country will take place. The annual Veterans Day Parade will take place at 10:45 a.m. along Monroe Street, organized by Veterans Events Tally.
Bonus event: FSU dance students present a shining ‘Evening’
Florida State University’s School of Dance presents “An Evening of Dance” featuring a blend of contemporary and traditional works, staged and choreographed by FSU faculty and nationally acclaimed guest artists and performed by FSU dance students. Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, and Saturday, Nov. 8, at the Nancy Smith Fichter Dance Theatre in Montgomery Hall.
The program — curated by Former Chair and Professor Emerita Anjali Austin — includes new pieces from nia love, Jawole Willa Jo Zollar and Baye and Asa, premiered by FSU dance students. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and older, $12 for children and non-FSU students and $10 for FSU students with ID. All seating is general admission. Visit tickets.dance.fsu.edu.
Bonus event: Artisans in the Garden
Tallahassee Nurseries, 2911 Thomasville Road, invites the community to celebrate creativity, community, and fall in full color at the 29th Annual Artisans in the Garden from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8. The garden center will transform into an outdoor gallery, showcasing more than 55 hand-selected local and regional artists specializing in pottery, jewelry, woodworking, painting, home décor, garden art, and holiday gifts.
Bonus event: Tallahassee Ballet celebrates with benefit gala
The Tallahassee Ballet invites the community to its 2nd Annual Benefit Gala, Bevs, Bites & Ballet, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov.13, at The Moon, 1105 E. Lafayette St.
Guests will enjoy performances by The Tallahassee Ballet’s professional company and youth dancers, gourmet bites from Hayward House, signature beverages, and live music, all to celebrate and support the performing arts in Tallahassee. Tickets, tables and sponsorships are available at tallahasseeballet.org.
“This event brings together people who care deeply about our city’s cultural life,” says CEO Lauren Hernandez. “When you attend the gala, you’re not just enjoying a great night out, but you’re helping sustain arts that make Tallahassee vibrant, connected, and creative.”
OTHER EVENTS
The Artist Series of Tallahassee: Ilya Yakushev, piano, is the guest for the third fall concert for The Artist Series of Tallahassee at 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9, at Christ Presbyterian Church, 2317 Bannerman Road. Tickets: $25 for adults, $23 for seniors, $5 for students. Visit theartistseries.org.
Autumn Open House: Artist Dean Gioia, noon-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9, 3739 Bobbin Brook Way.
Blue Tavern: Conor Churchill, 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11, at Blue Tavern, 1206 N. Monroe St., followed at 8 p.m. by Bluesday Tuesday with Rev. Robert, a master of prewar blues in the styles of Charley Patton, Robert Johnson and other delta blues giants. $5 cover. Russell Scaturro plays happy hour at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12, followed at 8 p.m. by Open Mic Night. Jack Quine is on the keys at 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, followed at 8 p.m. by Open Jazz Jam hosted by Jacob Wright.
Book signing: Author Mary Ann Lindley will have a book signing and meet & greet in the historic Goodwood main house, 1600 Miccosukee Road, 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6. Each $45 ticket includes an unsigned copy of Lindley’s book (can be signed at this event) and a glass of wine.
Crooked River Lighthouse Lantern Fest: Carrabelle’s Crooked River Lighthouse is celebrating its 130th birthday with Lantern Fest, from 6-10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8. This unique festival is best known for its amazing display of over a 100 colorful, hanging lanterns, live music, dance and delicious food. Special activities include bluegrass group Bottom Dollar Boys, the glow-in-the-dark performance from the Tallahassee State College Dancers, and craft demonstrations. Visit the 1895 maritime landmark at 1975 Hwy 98 West, Carrabelle. Advance tickets are $15; $20 at the gate. Visit crookedriverlighthouse.com.
Fire Betty’s Arcade Bar: The Groove Merchants, 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, 1122 Thomasville Road.
First Friday in Railroad Square: Justin Menendez presents Exploring Simulacra, a solo exhibition of new works on view throughout November at 621 Gallery. There’s an artist talk from 6-7 Thursday, Nov. 6, and the Public Grand Opening Reception from 6-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7. Acoustic duo Hot Tamale will be playing at the 621 Gallery in Railroad Square from 7-9 p.m. Nov. 7, for another celebratory First Friday.
Great Oaks Pub at Southwood: Blues power group Big Poppa and the Shuffle Brothers play the Great Oaks Pub, 3750 Grove Park Drive, from 6-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7. There will be great food and a full bar. No cover, public welcome, call 850-942-4653 for reservations.
Jack Hadley Black History Museum Gala: The Jack Hadley Black History Museum invites the community to its 7th Annual Gala, themed “Blazing Trails: Honoring the Past, While Riding to the Future,” on Saturday, Nov, 8, at Receptions for You, 1200 W. Jackson St., Thomasville, Georgia. The evening’s festivities will begin at 6:30 p.m. For ticket information, sponsorship opportunities, contact the Jack Hadley Black History Museum at 229-226-5029.
Lake Tribe Brewing: First Flannel Friday with Seminole Uprising, 6-9 p.m. Friday, Nov 7, Lake Tribe Brewing Company, 3357 Garber Drive.
Movies in the Moonlight: “Superman” (2025 film) will fly onto the screen with his super dog, Krypto, for a free, family friendly event at 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, in Cascades Park. City of Tallahassee event offers a variety of activities for all ages, including a costume contest.
926 Bar and Grille: Portland’s New Constellations come to Tallahassee in support of their debut self-titled album along with Austin’s Jane Leo and locals Abigail Jennings, 8 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9. Doors open at 7 p.m. , 926 W. Tharpe St. Tickets: eventim.us/event.
Seminole Radio Control Club: Annual Veteran’s Day Observance Fun Fly at the Apalachee Regional Park. Event starts at 8 a.m. with flight training from 10 a.m.-1p.m., Saturday, Nov. 8. Lunch may be purchased from 11:30 a.m.-1p.m. or until it’s gone. Visit seminolerc.com.
The Sound Bar: Mechanical Lincoln, 7 p.m. Friday, 1105 W. Tharpe St. Jerry Thigpen Trio, 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8.
Tallahassee Film Society: TFS Presents at the Challenger IMAX “A Little Prayer,” 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, and 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9. $11 general admission, $9 for TFS members and students. Visit tallahasseefilms.com
Title Wave: Friends of the Leon County Public Library fall hold a used book sale, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, and Saturday, Nov. 8, at the downtown main library, 200 W. Call St. Shop for gently used books, CDs, DVDs, and more.Proceeds benefit the LeRoy Collins Leon County Public Library System.
Venvi Art Gallery: Special group exhibition, “From Vision to Reality: 10 Years of Venvi Art Gallery,” opening with a reception from 5-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, 2901 E Park Ave.Wakulla Springs Car Show: The event runs from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. with vehicle registration starting at 8 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, at Wakulla Springs State Park. Attendees will enjoy classic cars, food vendors, music, and family-friendly activities. Hot Tamale will entertain at noon, featuring their environmental ballad “Wakulla Green,” the classic “Seminole Wind,” and their favorite Del Suggs song, “Old Blue Ford.” Park admission required.
Young Actors Theatre: Sensory-friendly and pay-what-you-can performance of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, 609 Glenview Drive. This performance is designed to create a welcoming theatre-going environment for autistic individuals, those with sensory sensitivities, and anyone who benefits from a more flexible audience experience. Reservations at youngactorstheatre.com.
Have an event coming up? Email details to limelight@tallahassee.com.
(This story was updated to add new information.)
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Looking for fun events? Top 5 things to do around Tallahassee
Reporting by Martha Gruender, Tallahassee Democrat / Tallahassee Democrat
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
