St. Petersburg, Florida – The city is preparing to host its 13th annual Localtopia festival on , promising a larger celebration of local businesses and community organizations than ever before. Organized by Keep Saint Petersburg Local, the event will transform Williams Park and surrounding streets into a showcase of the city’s independent spirit.
This year’s festival marks a significant expansion, with organizers adding an additional street to accommodate the growing number of participants. Localtopia has garnered recognition as a premier community event, previously being voted “BEST FREE COMMUNITY EVENT” in 2025 by St. Pete Life Magazine, “BEST MAKERS FESTIVAL” in 2023 by Creative Loafing, and “BEST FESTIVAL” for two consecutive years by the Tampa Bay Times.
The festival, free to attend, will feature over 300 local businesses and community organizations. Attendees can expect a diverse range of vendors, food and drink options, and live music from local artists. While family-friendly, organizers emphasize that pets are not permitted, a policy that has been in place since 2016 due to crowd sizes.
A Family-Focused Experience
Localtopia is designed with families in mind, offering a variety of interactive experiences and activities geared towards children. The festival is organized into walkable “villages” throughout Williams Park, allowing families to navigate the event at their own pace and focus on areas of interest.
The Family Village: A Hub of Creativity and Play
The Family Village, located near 3rd Street North, serves as the central hub for kid-friendly programming. This area will host a range of activities led by local organizations focused on creativity, education, and play.
Kindness in Action with Indi-ED
Families can participate in a Valentine’s Day-themed initiative with Indi-ED, a local educational organization. Attendees can purchase Valentine’s Day cards created by Indi-ED students, with the cards then delivered to foster children or seniors in St. Petersburg. This provides a tangible way for children to engage in acts of kindness and support local education.
Artistic Exploration
Several art-focused activities will be available, including the return of the NOMADstudio Art Bus, where children can contribute to a collaborative painting project directly on the bus itself. The Global Love Project will invite families to participate in a sidewalk chalk art project, spreading messages of love and positivity throughout the festival grounds. The Story Garden will offer a quiet “Book Nook” for reading and relaxation, while the St. Petersburg Library System’s Bookmobile will be on-site, allowing children to check out books or sign up for library cards.
Active Play and Entertainment
A dedicated play area and obstacle course, hosted by St. Pete Fight Team and St. Pete’s Best Summer Camp & After School, will provide opportunities for children to burn energy. Face painting by Glitter and Giggles will also be available.
Literary Corner: Celebrating Local Voices
The Literary Corner will feature local authors and poets, including a custom typewriter poet creating personalized poems on demand. Poetry readings will also take place throughout the day.
Environmental Awareness and Sustainability
Families can connect with earth-friendly vendors and participate in hands-on experiences, such as decorating bee boxes with Noble Nectar Apiaries and learning about pollinators. The “Take a Petal, Leave a Petal” experience, organized by The Ripple Effect, will promote kindness and community spirit. A “You Are Loved” mirror will provide a feel-good photo opportunity.
Music, Dance, and Surprise Performances
Live local music, performances by Hoola Monsters, and unexpected appearances by stilt walkers will add to the festive atmosphere.
Marine Life and Aerial Acrobatics
The Marine Exploration Center will bring a traveling aquarium with touch tanks, allowing children to learn about local marine life. Underground Cirque will present show-stopping performances featuring aerialists and acrobats.
Community Mural Project
Looking ahead, families with artistic children can participate in the 2026 Localtopia Community Mural Project at Williams Park, led by Phi Phi Artland. One-hour guided painting sessions will be available, and registration is open via https://phiphimuaythai.gymmasteronline.com/portal/book/class/583704. This project offers a unique opportunity for children to contribute to a permanent piece of public art.
Planning Your Visit
Organizers recommend that attendees bring sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles. A small blanket can be useful for resting, and ear protection may be advisable for younger children near music stages. Attendees are encouraged to prioritize a few villages rather than attempting to experience everything the festival has to offer.
Localtopia represents more than just a festival; it’s a demonstration of community support and a celebration of St. Petersburg’s unique local culture. The event provides a platform for local businesses to connect with residents and visitors, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.
Transportation options include a free bike valet at the corner of 2nd Avenue and 2nd Street North, free rides on the SunRunner, and free transportation via Star Trolley from Tropicana Field. Rideshare drop-off and pick-up will be located at the corner of 4th Street and 2nd Avenue North. Parking is available at Tropicana Field for a fee of $10 per day. Road closures will be in effect on 2nd Avenue between 2nd and 4th Street North, 3rd Street between 1st and 3rd Avenue North, and the old bus lane on 4th Street North.
