Greater Pensacola Parents Summer Camps Issue (March 2025)

March 2025

Tips for helping your first-time day camper have a great experience.

Summer Camp Guide

Find the perfect fit for your child in our listing of local and regional camps.

Consider Sleepaway Camp for Your Child

Five ways they’ll develop and mature.

Gavin (11) and Beckham (7)are the sons of Brian and Jessica Varner.

Gavin enjoys playing soccer, going camping, and STEM activities like Legos and

Just like his big brother, Beckham also enjoys playing soccer and creating with Legos. He also loves his snacks and Disney!

FromThePublisher

I saw a meme recently that said, “Mother Nature is throwing temperatures out there like Powerball numbers.” How true! Just as we were emerging from the fog of the holidays, we were treated to a beautiful winter wonderland. The first two days were magical—but by day three, I was over it. Fortunately, it wasn’t long before temperatures started warming up again, and I found myself working on my laptop outside, enjoying some beautiful spring-like weather. That, combined with working on the Summer Camp issue, has given me a full-blown case of Spring Fever. If these sneak peeks of spring have you eager for the new season, you’re in the right place! In this month’s Bits N Pieces and Family Calendar, you’ll find plenty of activities to get outside with the family and enjoy our great community. From 5Ks to cook-offs and a variety of community events, there are so many ways to kick off the spring season! Spring is also the time when most parents start signing their children up for summer activities—and we’ve got you covered! This month’s issue features our wildly popular Summer Camp Guide. Whether you’re looking for day camps or overnight camps, full-time or half-day programs, you’ll find them all here. From art camps to zoo camps—and everything in between—there’s something for every child. Whether your child is interested in sports, theater, music, science, or all of the above, this guide is an invaluable resource.

Will this be your child’s first time attending summer camp? If so, you may be a little nervous. Even if it’s just a half-day local camp, you might be wondering: Will they have fun? Will they make friends? To help ease your mind and prepare for this new adventure, Cherie Gough shares a great list of things to consider in Happy Campers: Tips to Help Children with Their First Camp Experience.

Maybe your child is a little older, and your family is considering sleepaway camp. That decision can bring even more concerns. Is my child ready? Will they benefit from the experience? Tanni Haas, Ph.D., offers wonderful insight in her feature, 5 Great Reasons to Send Your Kids to Sleepaway Camp.

Our Annual Summer Camp Issue is always so much fun to put together. Our community is incredibly fortunate to have such a wide variety of camps and activities to help us embrace the transition from winter to spring and we are so excited to share it all with you!

Wishing you and your family a wonderful spring!

Lynnlynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com

Greater Pensacola Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Greater Pensacola Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.

Publisher

Lynn Knighton

lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com

Editor

DeAnne Watson

editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com

Research Editor

Lucy Green

Contributing Writers

Kristi Bush, LSW

Cherie Gough

Tanni Haas

Gabriele Jones

Pam Molnar

Dave Ramsey Works of Wonder Therapy, LLC

Cover Photography

Naomi McIntosh Photography Facebook.com/NaomiMcIntoshPhotography @naomimcintoshphotography

President Jason Watson

Advertising Sales

Lynn Knighton

ads@greaterpensacolaparents.com (850) 426-6222

Ad Design

Tim Welch

Visit us at www.greaterpensacolaparents.com

Greater Pensacola Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: PO Box 6241 Pensacola, FL 32503. The phone number for voice and fax is (850) 426-6222. Greater Pensacola Parents is copyrighted 2025 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Greater Pensacola Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

Thrill rides, waterparks, coastal lodging options, and a free entertainment district–it’s all here, at OWA Parks & Resort!

by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com

Creating Healthy Habits Through Learned History

Parents often come to see me because they are distressed about their child’s “extremely bad behavior.” When I try to collect details about the problem, very few parents can answer the simple questions I ask. Let’s look at an example of a child biting and hitting every time his parents tell him, “No”. I ask them to think about the last time this took place and attempt to understand what happened before, during, and after the aggression. Instead of giving details, parents often answer with, “You just don’t understand, it is so bad. He will just hit us until we give him what he wants. We have no other choice.” Most of the time, the reason for their child’s behavior is not pathological, it is simply a product of learned history. Learned history is the collection of past interactions and experiences that influence a person’s current behavior. This is what learned history looks like in daily life: if a child’s aggression gets him what he wants, he is going

to be aggressive when he is told “no”. If a child sneaks into the pantry to get a cookie, she is going to do it again. If a child lies about homework and escapes the assignment, he is going to lie again. Without intervention, we all repeat what has been effective in our past.

Here is a practical approach to help your child establish healthy habits through learned history.

• Make sure that your children ask permission. You must ensure that communication and engagement are at the forefront of their learned history. If not, they find ways to work around communicating with others to get what they want.

Learned history also impacts emotional development. For example, if you feed into your child’s fears, she will become more afraid. If you allow your son’s anger to dictate what happens next, he will expect others to give in to his anger. If you become over-

whelmed every time your children display negative emotions, they become terrified every time they feel bad. I am not suggesting that you ignore their emotions, just validate while helping them learn that emotions are indicators, not dictators.

Here is a practical approach to help your children learn that emotions are not dictators.

• When you ask your child to do something, do not let their emotions dictate task completion. Too often, parents become distracted by their child’s emotional responses and lose focus on what is important. Some parents overly indulge their child’s emotions, “I am sorry this makes you angry, you do not have to do it.” On the other end of the spectrum, some parents attempt to punish emotions. For example, “You are not allowed to be upset when I ask you to clean up your toys. You must do this with a ‘happy heart’.” Instead, simply join with your child and help them. Even if their response is negative, encourage completion. Your job is to focus on the task and help your child succeed.

Celebrate every moment you have with your children and stay focused on what is important: help them do what you ask them to do and communicate their wants/needs. Do not let all the worries you have about raising healthy adults rob you of the joys of this season of life.

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

2025 Sun Belt Dribble Drive

The 2025 Sun Belt Conference Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Dribble Drive is scheduled for Saturday, March 8th beginning at 2:00pm at the Pensacola Bay Center. Children ages 3-12 are welcome to join in on the fun and dribble their basketball around the venue grounds and into the Bay Center where games will be taking place. Each participant will receive a FREE t-shirt, a FREE basketball and two FREE tickets to the March 8th women’s quarterfinal games slated for 2:30pm. Please visit https://www.visitpensacola.com/sunbelt/ for more information.

Pensacola’s Books

By the Bay Festival

Get ready to immerse yourself in a literary extravaganza like no other! Our festival, nestled in historic downtown Pensacola, is a haven for book enthusiasts of all ages. Join us on March 29, 2025 from 10:00am-4pm in Museum Plaza for a day brimming with activities that celebrate the magic of storytelling and the written word. Meet acclaimed authors and discover new literary treasures at our author signings and book vendor booths. Delve into the world of literature with free presentations by bestselling, regional, and international authors, offering insights and inspiration. Our Kids Area is for young imaginations, featuring activities such as writing your own poetry, crafting personalized bookmarks, and gathering around to hear captivating children’s stories and readings from our youth authors. Unleash your creativity with our Photo Prompt Poetry contest and Haiku slam, or mingle with costumed characters for a touch of whimsy. With so much to explore and enjoy, Books By the Bay Festival promises a day filled with enchantment and literary delights. Join us and let your imagination set sail. Please visit https://www.booksbythebay.info/.

Be My Neighbor Day

Join us for a beautiful day in the neighborhood on April 26 from 10am2pm at WSRE Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio Pensacola State College. This free community event promotes early education, health and safety, and the neighborly values of Mister Rogers. Each year, local families and community organizations come together for the event, and children delight in exploring educational activities. For more information, please visit https://www.wsre.org/events/be-my-neighbor-day/.

Pensacola Community Outdoor Flea Market

Come on out to the Spring Pensacola Community Outdoor Flea Market Extravaganza on Saturday, March 15 from 10am until 5pm at Community Maritime Park. Entrance fee is $2 and children 12 and under are free. 100% of Net Proceeds goes to Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Food trucks will also be on site. Please visit https:// apexshowsandevents.com/ for information.

Kites On the Coast

Council on Aging of West Florida’s third annual kite festival event is back! Gulf Winds Credit Union Kites on the Coast will be three days of intergenerational, highflying fun on beautiful Casino Beach in Pensacola Friday, March 14 to Sunday, March 16. The community is invited to celebrate this classic pastime with kite flying, kids’ activities, local vendors, food trucks, and showstopping demonstrations from Chicago Kite and stunt kite team SkyFX. Proceeds from event donations and sponsorships support the seniors and programs served by Council on Aging. Please visit https:// www.coawfla.org/kiteson-the-coast-event/ for more information.

Light Up Learning

Join us for Light Up Learning on March 6th, 5:30 pm at Wahoos Stadium. Light Up Learning is a fundraising event hosted by the Studer Community Institute to support the Early Brain Development Program. It’s critical to our mission of building babies brains, giving every child the opportunity to be the best they can be, and making Pensacola America’s first Early Learning City. Businesses and individuals are invited to sponsor a roundtable, where they can enjoy dinner, entertainment, and directly contribute to SCI’s initiatives, all while sitting on the Wahoos field. For more information or to become a sponsor, please contact Ashley Misleh at amisleh@studeri.org.

Children’s Treasure Hunt

Fiesta Children’s Treasure Hunt will be on Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Downtown Pensacola at Museum Plaza. The Treasure Hunt is at your leisure for children ages three to ten years old. All registered children will be entered into grand prize drawings, based on age: 0-2 years old, 3-4 years old, 5-7 years old, and 8-10 years old, with multiple prizes per group. Prizes include bicycles, tricycles, summer camp sessions, water activities, art easels, Sky Zone passes, sporting event tickets and so much more! This FREE event will include fun for the whole family! FREE registration and FREE lunch are from 11 AM-2 PM. The day will include games for children and families, face painting, snow cones, an interactive museum scavenger hunt, and visits from various community organizations. There will be special appearances by some of our favorite local friends, Kazoo of the Pensacola Blue Wahoos, Don Tristan DeLuna the 72nd and more. For more information, please visit https://www.fiestapensacola.org/other-events.

The Clover Pick A Bowl Fill A Bowl

Join us in the fight against hunger, Thursday, March 13, 6-8pm, at Pensacola State College’s Lou Ross Center to benefit Manna Food Pantry. This unique fundraiser with an artsy twist features the work of local artists and the fare of local vendors. Choose a one-of-a-kind handcrafted clay bowl thrown by a local potter to keep, sample some of the best soups in town, sip on wine and beer (must be 21 or older), and enjoy a few special features! Each ticket sold will provide 30 healthy meals to neighbors in need in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. Please visit https://www.mannahelps.org/events/pick-a-bowlfill-a-bowl/ for more information.

Zarzaur Law Maritime de Luna Youth Duathlon

The Zarzaur Law Maritime De Luna Du Youth Duathlon event will be on Sunday, March 30th, 2025. This race has over 200 youth from ages 6-15 years old. The event is held at the Vince J. Whibbs, Sr. Community Maritime Park in Pensacola, Florida. The event features a full duathlon experience for children from 6 to 15 years old while friends and family cheer them on. With a fully supported event on a closed course, safety and encouragement from volunteers complement the excitement of children becoming multisport athletes. This is a fully timed event and each athlete receives a custom medal and t-shirt for completing the race. Custom age group awards are given for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in each age group.

Whale Festival

Celebrates Gulf

Coast

Marine Life at Gulfside Pavillion on Casino Beach

The Gulf Coast Whale Festival brings environmental education and fun to Pensacola Beach on April 12 from 9 am – 3 pm at the Gulfside Pavilion on Casino Beach. Educational exhibits and activities tell the story of Gulf whales and local marine life, and a puppet parade led by Birds of a Feather showcases the ecology of the Gulf. Sweet sounds will flow from the Casino Beach Pavilion with live music by Pensacola singer-songwriters, and the premier performance of Ode to the Rice’s Whale, written by Pensacola performer Bob Teague.

“Yes we have whales along the Gulf coast, and we’re excited to host the Gulf Coast Whale Festival to celebrate the whales and other natural riches of the Gulf of Mexico,” said Christian Wagley, Florida/Ala bama Organizer at the nonprofit Healthy Gulf.

One of the organizations leading educational activities at the Festival is the Navarre Beach Marine Sci ence Station, where students are continuing their years of work around Gulf marine life. “My students are really excited to share our work on marine mammals, especially Rice’s whales,” says Charlene Mauro, director of the Center. “We’ll have an inflatable whale to visit, and handson activities to make it fun and informative.”

The Whale Festival comes at an exciting time for whale lovers on the Gulf coast, as the Rice’s whale was identified as a new species of whale just four years ago. In addition, the recent journey of two highly endangered North Atlantic right whales along the Florida-Alabama coast has captured public attention.

Space for vendors interested in sharing environmental and marine life education is available for free, but space is limited. For more informa tion and to register for booth space, please visit: https://healthygulf.org/get-involved/gulf-coast-whale-festival-2025/.

Child meal sites across the Gulf Coast are offering healthy, FREE meals for children, ages 18 and younger.

Students Learning to Create Artificial Reefs

Students enrolled in marine science classes at Booker T. Washington and West Florida Technical high school students are learning to design and construct artificial reefs that may eventually be used to help the area’s marine life.

About 140 students are enrolled in marine science classes that incorporate a new Artificial Reefs Curriculum into coursework. The

pilot program – a collaboration between Escambia County, the Escambia County school district, Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) and Sea Grant Florida –started in October at the schools.

The Artificial Reefs curriculum is funded by a $50,000 grant from the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA). Additional funding is being sought from other sources, said Robert Turpin, manager of the Escambia County Marine Resources Division.

Aletheia Christian Celebrates 100th Day

Kindergarten and First Grade students at Aletheia Christian Academy celebrated the 100th day of school at the end of January. These students enjoyed showing what they’ve learned in 100 days with many fun activities: Counting by 10’s to 100 with goldfish, getting creative with 100 marshmallows, 100 exercises, making hats, showing off their creativity with posters, and even writing about what they would be like when they are 100 years old.

Beulah Academy FFA Members

Place at Florida State Forestry Contest

Beulah FFA placed third for compass and pacing, and ninth in the state overall among middle schools.

Team members and their individual scores were:

Becca DeCoux — 12th

Luci Graham — 26th

Addyson Creighton — 32nd

Braxton Williams — 36th

BTW Shows Off Health Science Program

Students from Booker T. Washington’s Health Science Academy visited the school board workshop and shared details of their program and its realworld benefits.

The model infants used by the students were purchased by the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation’s Grants for Excellence program, partially funded by the School District Education Foundation Matching Grant Program through the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations. Here at ECPS, we are equipping some outstanding young people with technical skills needed to be successful in the workplace and in life.

Pensacola State College Charter Academy

Student Wins Debate Tournament

Pensacola State College Charter Academy student Benjamin Bentley won as the top champion at the Incubate Northwest Winter Debate tournament. Bentley also received the Eleanor Roosevelt Leadership Award for his performance. Bentley advanced through three rounds, placing as a top finalist in each one, including the preliminary town hall, the semi-final roundtable, and the final town hall round. The PSC Charter Academy celebrates Bentley’s achievements, noting his dedication and skill throughout the tournament.

Music and Movement Classes for Young Children, Ages 0-7

Two CLA’s Basketball Teams win CYSL Tournament

Creative Learning Academy’s basketball program showcased exceptional talent and skill at the recent Catholic Youth Sports League (CYSL) tournament in February. Twelve CLA teams, encompassing both boys and girls teams from grades 2nd to 8th, participated in the competition, demonstrating athleticism and determination across all age groups.

Several of CLA’s teams advanced to the semifinals, marking a great showing for our players and coaches.

Two of CLA’s girls’ teams demonstrated outstanding performances. The CLA Girls 4th-5th Grade Gold team emerged victorious in the CYSL Girls 4th-5th Grade Silver League, while the CLA Girls 6th-8th Grade team clinched the championship in the CYSL Girls 6th-8th Grade Gold League. This year’s success is a testament to these teams’ hard work, dedication, and the strong coaching within the CLA basketball program.

Creative Learning Academy’s participation in the CYSL allows students to engage in interscholastic athletic competition in basketball, flag football, tackle football, soccer, volleyball, and track and field. CLA is committed to promoting sportsmanship, respect, and teamwork to all of our student athletes, which was clearly demonstrated throughout the tournament. Creative Learning Academy celebrates the achievements of these basketball players, recognizing that

Please send school news and photos by the 15th of the month to: editor@greaterpensacolaparents.com.

2024-2025 ECPS Superintendent’s Student Council

Escambia County Public Schools Superintendent Keith Leonard recently named 13 high school students to the 2024-2025 Superintendent’s Student Council, comprised of student leaders from each high school in the district.

Natalie George – Tate High

Aiden Bramblett – Tate High

Braden Glick – Northview High

Maddie Driskill – Northview High

Randelaysia Grier – West Florida High

Chrissie Fuller – West Florida High

Delaria Pogu – Pine Forest High

Westin Rhymer – Washington High

Da’Rieon Gilbert – Washington High

Grace Guerrier – Pensacola High

Alex Kinney – Pensacola High

Payten Sim – Escambia High

Xandria Smith – Escambia High

The group will meet with the superintendent several times throughout the school year to help keep district leadership in tune with the students’ perspectives, priorities, and issues.

Montessori School of Pensacola Students

Explore Professions

Our Middle School program provides a week-long internship opportunity, allowing students to gain realworld experience in various careers.

This year, our 8th-grade students explored a diverse range of professions, including finance, construction, pet grooming, AC repair, the medical field, law, and even restaurant ownership!

Pictured is a MSP student learning the ins and outs of running a local restaurant with Jen Knight, owner of End of the Line Café.

Escambia County Students Collect Food for Manna

During the Escambia County District’s holiday food drive, Escambia County Public Schools collected the equivalent of 16,837 meals for Manna Food Pantries. The food will feed neighbors in need during winter, when donations tend to slow.

Aletheia Christian Academy AP Computer Science Class

Aletheia Christian Academy offers several Advanced Placement courses for Upper School students. Students in AP Computer Science got up close and personal with the inner workings of computers last month. They studied the history of computers and learned how storage devices have developed from paper punch cards to micro SD cards. They even dissected a computer tower to see how computers are made.

The Mess Hall Makes Math Fun with Montessori School Pensacola Students

Math is more than just numbers—it’s about relationships, engineering, and recognizing patterns. That’s exactly what The Mess Hall brought to life for our Kindergarten - Lower Elementary students! Through hands-on experiences, they explored math in a fun, interactive way and had a blast learning.

Montessori School of Pensacola Students

Become “Teachers”

Each year, Montessori School of Pensacola 7th-grade students step into the role of a teacher, immersing themselves in our Entry, Primary, and Lower Elementary classrooms for a week. We asked them about their experience, and here’s what a few had to say:

“I didn’t realize how much standing and cutting teachers do!”

“It’s interesting to see all the different ways students need help.”

“Being a teacher is tiring! You have to be resilient and find time to teach, help, and manage everything else for the kids.”

Pictured is a MSP 7th-grade student giving a sound lesson to three Primary students.

Escambia County’s Graduation Rate Increases

Florida’s high school graduation rate rose to 89.7%, and most Escambia County high schools exceeded that improved number for the 2023-2024 school year. The 2023–2024 statewide high school graduation rate represents the highest rate in Florida history, with the exception of the pandemic school years in which graduating classes were exempt from statewide, standardized assessment requirements stipulated in state law.The overall graduation rate for Escambia County Public Schools was 84.2%, up from 80.5% in 2022-2023 and 78.4% in 2021-2022.

Lipscomb Elementary Hosted “Constructing Young Minds Career Dress Up Day”

Total Academic Support: From early literacy to advanced math, we provide tutoring across all subjects. Personalized, One-on-One Instruction: Our customized tutoring sessions build skills, confidence, and academic success. Support for Learning Differences: Our experienced tutors work with students facing ADHD, processing disorders, and other learning challenges, using compassionate, evidence-based strategies to help them thrive.

Escambia County Sheriff’s Office joined community leaders for Celebrate Literacy Week and deputies, among other professionals, read to students and shared insights about their careers.

ECPS Recognizes ECPS Teacher of the Year

Escambia County Public Schools is proud to recognize Ms. Kelly Reed, Kindergarten teacher at Global Learning Academy, as this year’s ECPS Teacher of the Year.

ECPS’s Second Podcastapalooza

Speaking for the host of our Voices United in Education Podcast, Meredith Hackwith Edwards, the 2025 event was not only educational, but delightfully entertaining. Around 350 people attended again this year! Chris Welch won the $250 door prize drawing and Episode 119, Snoezelen Center at Escambia Westgate School won $250 for the best exhibit. We want to give a big shout out and special thanks to everyone who participated and took advantage of this year’s event. Click here (https://www.voicesunitedineducation.com) to stay informed by listening to our weekly podcast.

Eight Additional ‘Purple Star Schools’ Designated in Escambia County

Eight additional schools in Escambia County have been added as Purple Star Schools of Distinction by the Florida Department of Education for their support of children of military families for the 2024-25 school year through the 2026-27 school year.

“We encourage every school in the state to strive to better serve military families and earn the designation,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said Tuesday afternoon. “I am proud to recognize these schools and school districts for their efforts to support our military families and earn the Purple Star designation.”

The most recent schools to achieve this honor are: Beulah Middle School Ferry Pass Elementary George Stone Technical College Kingsfield Elementary Navy Point Elementary Pensacola High School Ransom Middle School Redeemer Lutheran (Private) There are 28 Purple Star schools in Escambia County.

Kyle and Adriana Porter love raising their children in the northwest Florida panhandle. Initially, the couple met while they were both in the Navy on the USS Ronald Reagan, which was stationed on Coronado Island in San Diego. At the time, they were both Aviation Boatswains Mates (ABE’s).

A decade of wedded bliss and four children later, this couple couldn’t be happier. Elijah (9) is their oldest and is quite the little athlete keeping busy with basketball and football. Samuel (7) is dabbling in music and learning to play the guitar. Issac (6) is in his first grade and simply enjoying the beach life. Their youngest is Ruth (3), who loves to play Barbies and paint.

“This time of year marks the return of good weather, which means getting back outside until the sun goes down,” Adriana shared. “The kids love playing in the backyard, we all enjoy family walks around the

“Surprisingly, for me, I wanted to stay for the beach and the swampy-looking trees,” shared Adriana. “It’s funny to say, but I didn’t realize how deserty Southern California was until I came to the area. I had never seen trees and landscaping like it before, and I thought it was beautiful. I enjoyed that it was warm most of the year, like California.”

Kyle and Adriana are self-proclaimed foodies. They loved adventuring to all types of restaurants while dating, and now, as a family of six, they enjoy scrolling TikTok for fun meal ideas for their family.

Adriana describes herself as the baker in the family, while Kyle is the chef and does the majority of the cooking. They both work intentionally to expose their kids to different varieties of food, and they have a general rule of trying it before you say you don’t like it.

“We chose this sushi bake dinner to share with GPP readers because our kids love sushi, and it’s a quick and easy one-dish meal,” said Adriana. “All of the kids go back for seconds, and it keeps well for leftovers — if there are any.”

neighborhood with our two dogs, Max and Milly, and lots of trips to the beach.”

The beach is what prompted the Porter’s to stay in the area. They both had moved around quite a bit, being full-time in the military, but their last request before transitioning to Navy Reserves and civilian work was to be stationed in Pensacola.

• Optional or on half: Green onion and sliced or diced avocado

Directions:

1. Cook rice according to the directions on package. Set aside.

2. Season salmonwith salt and pepper. You can either throw it in the air fryer and cook it at 400F for 10-12 minutes, or bake it in the oven at 375F for 15-17 minutes.

3. Preheat oven to 400F.

4. In a large bowl, shred imitation crab and cooked salmon into pieces. Then add cream cheese and Sriracha Mayo. Mix everything together until smooth and well combined.

4. Prepare a 9x9 inch or 9x13 inch baking dish by greasing it with extra virgin olive oil or oil of choice.

5. Assemble the Sushi Bake. Start by trans ferring the cooked sushi rice to the baking dish and gently press down to flatten it out and sprinkle a generous amount of furikake onto the rice.

6. Top with a layer of salmon-crab mixture. Gently press down and smooth the surface.

7. Bake at 400F for 10-15 minutes.

Sushi Bake

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of cooked sushi rice

• 10 oz imitation crab

• 8 oz salmon

• 4 oz cream cheese

• Sriracha Mayo

• Furikake

• Seaweed snacks

• Sesame seeds

8. Take the sushi bake out of the oven. Top with more Sriracha mayo, chili furikake, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions. Optionally add avocado.

9. To serve, scoop a spoonful of sushi bake and wrap it with a seaweed snack. Enjoy!

Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August.

Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.

School will be out before we know it! You find the perfect day camp for your little artist, swimmer or scientist, but you’re worried because camp is unfamiliar territory. Help prepare your child for what’s ahead with these tips to make his first camp experience a positive one.

by Cherie Gough

One, Two, Buckle My Shoe: The Basics

• Have children memorize their full name, address and a parent’s cell phone number before camp begins.

• Many day camps require closed-toe shoes and many activities need kids to get shoes on and off quickly. Practice tying shoelaces; if your little one hasn’t mastered this skill before camp starts, consider a pair of Velcro shoes. Do trial runs until he masters getting shoes on and off in a timely manner. Practice makes perfect!

• Children should be able to zip their own pants and sweatshirts (or wear pullons so they are self-sufficient). Teach them to tie a sweatshirt around their waist.

• Apply sunscreen before leaving for camp; children who attend full-day camp should know how and when to reapply.

Practice Active Listening and Assertive Communication

• Be sure your child listens to and follows directions well. Following directions is vital to keep everyone safe and having fun. Practice active listening skills by asking your child to follow multi-step directions and directions following sequential order.

• Review camp policies posted online before camp begins to help prepare him for expectations. Note that a child who pouts until he gets his way may not be ready for camp.

• Practice simple, direct responses to communicate dissatisfaction when necessary. Such as, “I don’t like that. Don’t do it again.” If an annoying or inappropriate behavior continues from another child, ask a camp counselor for help.

• Children should know how (and be willing) to ask for help when needed. If he has a special need, let camp staff know ahead of time. Kids and staff can even agree on a signal to get a staff member’s attention.

• Have kids practice asking for what they want (politely). Manners go a long way. You’ve taught your child “please” and “thank you”—be sure he says these important phrases without your cue.

the

Sing Summer in

with the Pensacola Children’s Chorus

Multi-camp discounts available

Early bird registration discount available through April 15

SPOTLIGHT SERIES

June 23-28

Grades 1-6

JUMPSTART

Scan for more information

Presented in part by

C is for Cookie: Make Lunch Stress-Free

• Packaging often poses a problem for little fingers. Practice opening wrappers and containers at home.

• Hand-washing is sure to be emphasized, but if it makes you more comfortable, ask camp staff ahead of time if hand wipes, sanitizer, or placemats are allowed in lunchboxes. Practice using these items at home to model expectations.

July8-12 Grades 7-12

SUMMER FESTIVAL

MondaysJune/July Grades 6 -12 DANCE INTENSIVE

July28-Aug.2 Grades 1-8

PensacolaSings.org

• One in 13 children has a food allergy; it’s likely that someone at camp will too. Swapping snacks sounds like fun, but it’s not safe for many kids. Cross-contamination can pose a big problem for kids allergic to nuts or gluten. Teach children not to share food and to respect other people’s space by not touching their lunchbox and food.

• Stop yourself the next time you start to clean up after your kids. Teach children how to sort trash from recyclables, throw items in proper bins, and most importantly, not to expect adults to clean up after them. Part of being successful, happy campers is for kids to help out and do their part.

You’ve Got a Friend in Me: Social Skill Essentials

For many first-time campers, enrolling with a buddy helps ease jitters. But it’s important to gain the confidence and skills to make new friends. Review and roleplay skills that show openness to making friends:

• Practice how to greet someone new. Make eye contact and smile.

• When someone says “hi”, teach children to reply, even if they feel shy. Not responding may be misconstrued that a child doesn’t want to be friends.

• Teach children to take turns.

• Discuss the idea that not everyone has to be friends—especially if your child is a people pleaser.

Cherie Gough is a freelance journalist and a college admissions writing coach.

SESSION 1 – June 9-13

SESSION 2 – June 16-20

SESSION 3 – June 23-27

SESSION 4 – June 30-July 3 *Closed July 4 SESSION 5 – July 7-11

MORNING SESSION: 8:30-11:30 am

LUNCH: 11:30 am-12:00 pm – full day campers only

AFTERNOON SESSION: 12:00-3:00 pm

AFTER CARE: 3:00-5:00 pm

Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases

Paddington in Peru

Captain America: Brave New World

Dog Man

Theaters

Everyone’s favorite bear is back! When the Home for Retired Bears informs Paddington that his aunt has gone missing, he brings the Brown family along on a visit to the Peruvian jungle. A wild trip down the Amazon follows, with unexpected results. The movie is kid-friendly, with a whimsical tone, minor plot -related peril, and a cast that is clearly having a blast. Parents might miss the greater charm of the original films, but sequel blig ht isn’t exactly a surprise. Just because this film isn’t great doesn’t mean it’s bad Photo ©Sony Pictures Releasing

Assuming his new role as Captain America, Sam Wilson faces a critical challenge: US President Thaddeus Ross is under threat and has barely escaped an assassination attempt. But when Sam’s old friend, Isaiah, is suspected in the plot, Sam ’s loyalties are going to be tested. Like every other Marvel superhero flick, this one ticks all the same boxes – overly frequent, highly digitized fight scenes; plenty of civic destruction, minor profanity and drinking. What’s missing is an original plot that can keep viewers engaged for the entire runtime.

The city is under threat from supervillain Petey the Cat and only one hero can save them. Dog Man is an unlikely hybrid, fused together when an injured police officer and his dog undergo a life-saving surgery. Now Dog Man must use his unusual combination of skills and traits to bring the feline felon to heel. Based on the book series by Dav Pilkey, this film features his quirky wit, some potty humor (less than expected), and plenty of wholesome messages. Best of all, it’s laugh -out -loud funny for viewers of all ages. Photo ©Universal Pictures

Orphaned, abandoned by his grandparents, and living in his car, Nathan Williams struggles to get enough to eat. When he’s arrested for stealing electronics, his teacher, Stan Deen, takes him in, determined to help Nate graduate from high school. Nate is grateful, but the demons of his past are hard to escape…This is a heartening film about an inspiring teacher: the negative content is all in service of the plot and none of it is grat uitous. This is a film that encourages empathy, compassion, and kindness an d it’s worth watching Photo ©Angel Studios

Burdened by debt and facing foreclosure of the family’s Wisconsin dairy farm, Buck refuses to give up, placing a Super Bowl bet on his favorite team, the Green Bay Packers. But his decisions don’t just affect him – granddaughter Jenny is also committed to the farm, but her musical dreams might make or break it . The film’s ending feels contrived but the rest of the story delivers earnest authenticity and a harrowing examination of the economic forces that batter America’s farmers. There’s plenty to think about here. Photo ©Fathom Events

Photo ©Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Green and Gold

Q. My wife and I both have good jobs. Together, we bring home around $190,000 combined. We also have $100,000 in a savings account, and no debt except for our mortgage. A couple of weeks ago, I was contacted about an opportunity to take a job in commercial real estate in my hometown. To be honest, this kind of work has been a dream of mine for several years. The problem is my wife is upset by the idea of moving. She says it’s because she doesn’t want to be even further away from her family, but it seems like something else is bothering her. Do you have any advice?

A. Anytime you’re in a relationship and something like this happens, it’s a little like making a sale in that you’ve got to dig out

the real reason for the objection. It could very well be that she doesn’t want to be further away from her family, and that’s natural—to an extent. But like you said, there could be other factors involved.

There might be something in your past that bothers her, or something she doesn’t want you to revisit. There may even be feelings of discomfort with your family for things that have happened or been said. It could also be the insecurity that goes along with a move, a new home and a new job. I don’t know how far away you’re talking about moving, but it could also be she’s worried about leaving her job.

From a relationship standpoint, you two each need to lay your cards on the table and be honest with each other. Open

up, and really talk about it. Otherwise, it’s going to become a sore spot and cause even more problems. Part of marriage is making compromises. Sometimes compromises must be made by one, or both, people in order to do what’s best for the relationship in the present and in the long run.

It could be that you just need an impartial referee. Would you both be willing to attend a few sessions with a good pastor or marriage counselor together? Talking to either one doesn’t mean your marriage is on the rocks, but sometimes a compassionate and objective third party can help dig down below the surface to uncover issues and help find a reasonable solution to problems.

My kids never went to an overnight camp. They were happier sleeping in their own bed and with a flexible work schedule, I didn’t have to worry about daycare most days. With some creativity, I found there are dozens of local opportunities to keep the kids busy this summer without breaking the bank.

Spend the week at Grandma’s. Every year my sister and I would spend a week with our grandparents. Twice we went on vacation with them, but most years we just hung out at their house. We played with our cousins, went shopping, played games and went to local events. It was nice to experience life with my grandparents in charge and it allowed my parents to go to work, worry free.

Vacation Bible School (VBS) is held at many different churches every summer. This is an activity that your kids can participate in from preschool to high school and beyond. It is usually presented as a half day camp where kids do crafts, sing songs, watch skits and play games around a bible theme. Many camps include a snack or lunch, too. The best part is that when the kids outgrow the activities, they can volunteer as a leader.

Attend a local high school camp. Most local high schools offer sports, music or science weeklong, half day camps.

The camps are usually run by older students and/or the coaches and teachers at the school. Camp is usually available to kids from third grade through high school. It is fun for kids to participate in camps at the high school they will attend one day as they usually get a cool t-shirt as part of the camp.

Go on vacation. Most families take some type of vacation – even if it is a staycation. Many people allow their kids to have a friend come along on the trip so they have someone their age. If you are lucky, that same friend will invite your child to go on vacation with their family.

Park district camps have something for everyone. In addition to sports, they may have cooking camps, STEM camps, first aid camps and art camps. Many YMCAs also offer an all day, day camp where campers go on local field trips to movies, pools, museums and zoos. The drop off and pick up is close to home. Choose one or more camps to suit your needs over the summer.

Create your own summer camps. Work with your neighbors and friends to arrange activities like those offered in park district day camps. Save a few vacation days to take your kids (and theirs) to local water parks, nature trails, etc. It is a great way to fill in the holes in your summer day care plans.

If you live near a university, take advantage of their summer camps for kids of all ages. They offer both academic and sports camps over several weeks. Like the high school camps, they have activities for a large range of age groups and most camps run for a week or two.

Make time to volunteer. If your kids are middle school age, they can volunteer some of their time by helping younger kids have fun. Libraries are looking for kids to help with summer reading program tables. Churches look for VBS helpers. Animal shelters look for dog walkers and people to entertain the cats. Food pantries are looking for stockers and nursing homes are always happy to see younger faces.

Take it day by day. When planning your summer calendar, turn to social media like Facebook Events to find local entertainment. The advertisers in this magazine are a great source to find new activities in town. Follow your favorite ones on social media for discount days and coupons.

Have an unscheduled week. This is the week you can catch up on projects at home, shop for school supplies and clothes or create your own fun. This is also the week to schedule dentist appointments, school physicals and all those other things that need to be done over the summer.

Consider Hiring a Summer Nanny

Nannies are more than a toddler’s caregiver. Parents hire a summer nanny to help with driving to activities, preparing lunch, breaking up sibling squabbles and for someone to supervise at the pool. Care.com is a great place to look for summer day care, even if just part time.

My daughter picked up several babysitting jobs on Care.com in addition to her part time job. She often searches for part time jobs that fit in with her free time. Over winter break, she found a job attending a cooking class with a special needs teenager who wanted some independence from mom and dad.

Another great source is your local Facebook page. Many teens and college students who live right in your neighborhood often look for summer positions early in the spring. Nannies don’t have to be girls. Although they are the traditional summer caregiver, there are plenty of boys who enjoy mentoring and hanging out with the next generation.

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. She has discovered that the best summer plans are made early and hearing “I’m bored” from her kids is unavoidable. GPP

Art Camp

Creatisphere

- First City

Art Center Art Camp

ad on page 8

1060 North Guillemard St, Pensacola, FL 32501 May 26th-August 8th; open to elementary students and Teens. Ages 5-12 from 9:00am-4:00pm - half day option available on select weeks. Ages 13-18 from 1pm - 4pm. Pottery, Drawing, Sculpture, Collage, 3-D Design, Storytelling, Mixed Media, Painting, Printmaking, Glass, Textiles, Costume Design, Building, and More! Each week of camp is a new experience offering a variety of art mediums, as well as incorporating STEAM, history, world cultures, yoga, and games into the themes. Extended care offered, and scholarships are available! Cost: $175-$280 per week. 850-429-1222 create@firstcityart.org www.firstcityart.org

Pensacola Museum of Art

ad on page 14

407 South Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502 Summer Art Camp will introduce campers to various artistic mediums, techniques, and forms of expression through the exploration of our exhibition spaces and engaging art projects. Each week, campers will experience hands-on projects for an immersive visual arts experience. Monday-Friday 9am-3:30pm . Extended care is available from 3:30pm - 5:00pm. Dates: June 16 - 20 (Summer Art Intensive for High School students: Grades 9-12), July 14 - 18 (1st - 2nd grade); July 21 - 25 (3rd - 5th grade); July 28Aug. 1 (5th - 8th grade). To view the list of weekly descriptions and grade levels, please visit, www. pensacolamuseum.org. PMA Members $276.50. Regular rate $290. 850-473-7468 https://pensacolamuseum.org/learnengage/summer-camps/

Dance Camp

Barbie’s Beach Party Dance Camp

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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504

July 7-11, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 4-10 years. $80 City Resident/$90 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no

disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day. 850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Disco Neon Dance Party Camp

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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504

June 2-6, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 4-10 years. $80 City Resident/$90 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day. 850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Enchanted Fairytale Land Dance Camp

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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504

July 14-18, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 4-10 years. $80 City Resident/$90 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day. 850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Five Flags Dance Academy

ad on page 22

8084 N. Davis Highway F-1, Pensacola, FL 32514

Offering Summer Day Camps, Six-week Summer Sessions and Summer Intensives. Summer Day Camps start May 27 and offer dancing, swimming, bowling, arts & crafts and more. 7:30am - 5:30 pm with weekly rates. Six-week Summer Sessions begin June 3rd with options of ballet, tap, jazz, pointe, hip hop, lyrical, musical theatre, acro and baton. Two Summer Intensives and a Ballet Workshop will also be offered. 850-484-0648 www.fiveflagsdanceacademy.com

LaBelle Performing Arts

ad on page 21

8253 Chellie Road, Pensacola, FL 32526

Join us for an exciting summer with Labelle Performing Arts! Visit our website for updates and more information.

850-944-5650 info@labelleperformingarts.com www.labelleperformingarts.com

Mermaids and Pirates

Dance Camp

ad on Inside Back Cover

Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504

June 23-27, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 4-10 years. $80 City Resident/$90 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day.

850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Minnie & Mickey Mouse

Dance Camp

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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504

July 28-August 1, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 3-6 years. $70 City Resident/$80 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day.

850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Musical Theater Dance Camp

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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504

July 21-25, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 4-10 years. $80 City Resident/$90 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day.

850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Pensacola Youth Ballet

ad on page 13

9276 N Davis Hwy. , Pensacola, FL 32514

Pensacola Youth Ballet will hold summer programs June 16 to July 11. Registration begins soon and space is limited so that we can give more personal attention to our students. Call us today for more information 850-786-9506. 850-786-9506 www.pensacolayouthballet.com

Prince and Princess Dance Camp

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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504

June 9-13, 2025. 9am - 12pm. Ages 4-10 years. $80 City Resident/$90 Non-Resident. Campers will learn several dances, make themed craftsand creative costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day of camp. Participants must by potty trained - no disposable training pants allowed. Please bring a small snack and water bottle each day.

850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Red, White, and Bluey Dance Camp

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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504

June 30-July 2, 2025. 9am - 11am. Ages 2.5-5 years. $45 City Resident/$55 Non-Resident. Kids attending this 3-day camp will learn several dances, create themed crafts and costumes, and participate in a mini recital on the last day. Camp activities hold emphasis on the fun and excitement of discovering the world through movement and dance.

850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Ballet Pensacola

Pensacola Cultural Center, 400 S Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502

Dance with Ballet Pensacola, voted Pensacola Best Dance Studio this summer! Creative Dance Camp – ages 3-5 - June 16-19 / June 23-26 / July 14-17 / July 21-24. Ballerina Camp – ages 5-7- June 16-19 / June 23-26 / July 14-17 / July 21-24. Young Dancer Intensive- ages 7 – 11 - July 14-25. Intermediate/Advanced Intensive – June 2 – July 11

850-432-9546 debijanea@balletpensacola.org www.balletpensacola.org

Broadway Lights

5668 Gulf Breeze Parkway (Unit B11), Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Five Star Dance Centre

5636 Woodbine Road, Pace, FL 32571

We are offering camps and dance classes so there’s plenty to choose from! 850-748-2383 www.fivestardancecentre.com

La Rita’s Dance Studio

2895 W Scott Street, Pensacola, FL 32505

Dates and times are coming soon. Please feel free to call or visit our website for updates. 850-426-1933 www.laritasdancestudio.com

Mixon Magic Performing Arts

Historic Sacred Heart Hospital, 1010 N. 12th Avenue, Suite #238, Pensacola, FL 32501

Another exciting summer filled with camps and productions is coming soon to Mixon Magic. Visit our website and follow us on socials for updates. 850-221-7438 www.mixonmagic.com

Time to Shine

4375 Woodbine Road, Pace, FL 32571

Art, Dance, and Musical Theater Camps for all ages! Summer program dates: June 23–July 25, 2025. Please visit our website or Facebook page! 850-994-5678 www.timetoshineflorida.com

Day Camp

BE Academy, LLC Preschool

ad on page 34

2800 Wilde Lake Blvd. Pensacola, FL 32526

Summer Day Camp for ages 1 - 5 years. Camp begins Monday, June 2 and ends Friday, July 25 (off on July 4th). Monday - Friday, Operating hours 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 850-972-8202 info@beacademyllc.org www.beacademyllc.org

Berryhill Summer Camp

ad on page 25

5900 Berryhill Road, Milton, FL 32570

Ages 5 - 12 are invited to join us for a super sum mer of Fun! Monday - Friday, 6:15am - 6pm. Out door games, interactive play, field trips, movies, STEM projects, indoor rock wall, talent shows and more! We offer 3 day and 5 day programs. Weekly rates are available. 850-564-1227 berryhillchildcare@gmail.com www.berryhillchildcare.com

CLA Summer Camp: Enrichment, Sports and Creative Camp

ad on page 23

Creative Learning Academy, 3151 Hyde Park Rd, Pensacola, FL 32503

Please visit our website for information on the different themed sessions offered. June 9-July 11. Closed July 4. Rising 4 year olds-8th grade. 8:30am-5:00pm. Full-day $300/week, Half-day $150/week. Extended Care 3-5pm. $100/week. 850-432-1768 jrussell@creativelearningacademy.org www.creativelearningacademy.org

Discover Day Camp ad on page 7

Pensacola Christian Academy, 10 Brent Lane, Pensacola, FL 32503

Weekly, June 2-July 25, Monday - Friday 8:00am3:00pm with extended care available until 5:30pm. For those who have just completed 1st-6th grade. Discover Day Camp offers a variety of engaging activities that encourage campers to explore and innovate. Some activities target one or more STEM skills (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and are appropriate to campers’ grade level. 850-378-3708 info@discoverdaycamp.com www.discoverdaycamp.com/Summer25

Kids

College ad on page 38

Pensacola State College, 1000 College Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32504

Kids’ College Camps May 27 through August 8. Enjoy STEAM, sports, art, theater, languages and much more. Half-day and full-day options available. 850-484-1797 ce@pensacolastate.edu www.ce.pensacolastate.edu

Kidz Pointe Summer Camp

ad on page 31

vide incredible value as well as the safest, highest,

Christian Pensacola summer camp. Open to ages K4-5th grade. 850-479-1605 www.marcuspointechristian.org/summercamp

Montessori School of Pensacola Summer Camps

ad on page 37

1010 North 12th Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32501

Camps are designed for Preschool1st Grade, crafted with different themes each week. Animal Explorers-June 2-6, Under the Sea-June 9-13, Jewelry Makers-June 16-20 (No camp on 6/19), Young Scientists-June 23-27, Music & Movement-June 30-July 3 (No camp on 7/4), Out of this World-July 7-11, Art & Artists-July 14-18, Science of WaterJuly 21-25, Session 1 June 2-27 (no camp 6/19), Session 2 June 30 - July 30 (no camp 1/4). Times offered: 8-11:30 $265/week, Each 4-week Session $900, 8-2:30 (11:30 on Fridays) $370/week, Each 4-week session $1300, 7-5:30 $475/week, Each 4-week session $1700.

trips, swimming and tons of outdoor fun! 850-436-5192 rsmith@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Play Pensacola Summer Day Camp

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Fricker Resource Center, 900 North F Street, Pensacola, FL 32501

850-469-8138 www.montessoripensacola.com/ learning-at-msp/summer-camp

Play Pensacola Summer

Day Camp

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E.S. Cobb Resource Center, 601 East Mallory Street, Pensacola, FL 32503

June 2 - August 1, 2025. 7:00am-6:00pm. Ages 5-12 years. $65 City Resident/$75 Non-Resident, per week. Register online beginning April 1. Field

June 2 - August 1, 2025. 7:00am-6:00pm. Ages 5-12 years. $65 City Resident/$75 Non-Resident, per week. Register online beginning April 1. Field trips, swimming and tons of outdoor fun! 850-436-5195 playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Play Pensacola Summer Day Camp

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Gull Point Resource Center, 7000 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504

June 2 - August 1, 2025. 7:00am-6:00pm. Ages

5-12 years. $65 City Resident/$75 Non-Resident, per week. Register online beginning April 1. Field trips, swimming and tons of outdoor fun!

850-494-7360

hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/SummerCamps

Play Pensacola

Summer Day Camp ad on Inside Back Cover

Woodland Heights Resource Center, 111 Berkley Drive, Pensacola, FL 32503

June 2 - August 1, 2025. 7:00am-6:00pm. Ages 5-12 years. $65 City Resident/$75 Non-Resident, per week. Register online beginning April 1. Field trips, swimming and tons of outdoor fun!

850-435-1750 tthomas@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Sports Center Day Camp ad on page 36

Pensacola Christian College, 250 Brent Lane, Pensacola, FL 32503

A summer of exciting, non-stop activity awaits children ages 6–12 and 5-year-olds who have already completed K5. Sports Center Day Camp is an entertaining summer experience filled with swimming, waterslides, ice skating, and more that will make this summer one your child will never forget!

Summer Day Camp

ad on page 37

6331 Chestnut Street, Milton, FL 32570

Activities include road trips, swimming, arts and crafts, Bible Time, Enrichment Time, Special Events days, inflatables, wading pools, & tons of fun. Enjoy our large air-conditioned gym! Big YAC - Kindergarten graduates through 5th grade graduates, Little YAC Ages 3-4. Registration for summer camp will open May 2025. Watch our Facebook page for updates. 850-623-4671 sports@youthathleticclub.org www.youthathleticclub.org/summer-day-camp

Winshape Camp for

Communities Gulf Breeze

ad on page 26

1122 Oriole Beach Road, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Have the summer of a lifetime close to home! Join us for full days of fun July 21-25, 2025 , for completed K5 - 5th grade. Monday-Thursday 8:15am5:00pm and Friday 8:15am-12:15pm. Registration begins March 10th.

844-WS-CAMPS (972-2677)

https://camps.winshape.org/day-camps/gulf-breeze-fl/

Gulf Breeze Parks & Rec Summer Camp

800 Shoreline Drive, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Summer day camp experience for boys and girls, upcoming 1st through upcoming 8th grade. The children have the opportunity to play and develop skills with children of the same age. 850-934-5140 www.gulfbreezeparksandrecreation. com/summer-camp

Conqueror Day Camp

West Florida Baptist Academy, 5621 Highway 90, Milton, FL Conqueror Day Camp is offering a sum-

mer of activities including Bible stories, swimming, movies, reading club, field trips and more. Monday through Friday from 7:00am - 3:00pm. Extended day from 7am - 5:30pm is also available. For registration or information visit our website. 850-623-9306 www.wfbacademy.org/daycamp

Emerald Coast Science Center

31 Memorial Parkway SW, Fort Walton, FL 32548 STEAM Workshops Mondays and Tuesdays in June and July, for ages 5 - 12. Workshop times are from 9:00am - 1:00pm. 850-664-1261 www.ecscience.org

Episcopal Day School, HiltonGreen Campus - PreK3-K

601 North Palafox Street, Pensacola, FL 32501 PreK3-Kindergarten, Half day is 8:00 - 12:00. Full Day is 8:00-4:00 pm. Extended Care available 4:00-5:30pm for an additional cost. 850-466-2060 www.edscc.org/

Episcopal Day School, South Campus1st-8th grade

223 North Palafox Street, Pensacola, FL 32502 1st-8th grade, Half day is 8:00 - 12:00. Full Day is 8:00-4:00 pm. Extended Care available 4:005:30pm for an additional cost.

850-434-6474 cbarfield@edscc.org www.edscc.org/summer

Falbo’s Family Karate Summer Camp

3031 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563 Summer Camp-Hours: 7:30am (extended hours 6:30am), pick up by 6:00pm. Choose daily or weekly. Enjoy Karate Classes, field trips like swimming, movie, skating, bowling and more. See the Schedule online. Space is limited! Reserve your spot.

850-934-7977 info@falbosfamilykarate.com www.falbosfamilykarate.com/summer-camp

Gonzalez Methodist Church Summer Camp

2026 Pauline Street, Cantonment, FL 32533

Summer program, Monday - Friday from 6:30am6:00pm. Ages: Kindergarten - 5th grade. 850-968-6245 www.gonzalezmethodist.org

Kids 4 Fun Summer Day Camp

4062 Avalon Boulevard, Milton, FL 32583

850-983-1410

2258 Hwy 87 South, Navarre, FL 32566 850-939-9700

3917 Hwy 90 , Pace, FL 32571 850-995-4191

4050 Avalon Boulevard, Milton, FL 32583

Camp starts May 30th, Monday - Friday 6:30am6:00pm. Ages 5-12 years. We provide a super fun time with games, activities, and field trips while learning all the awesome benefits of gymnastics. Call to register.

850-983-0870 ourkarate.com/summer-camps/

KinderWorld

2000 Toni Street, Pensacola, FL 32504

Open Monday-Friday 6:30am-5:45pm. We accept ages 6 weeks-11 years. For summer, our kids have lots of activities.

850-477-7080 www.mykinderworld.com

Miss Kathy’s Day Camp

2275 East Johnson Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32514

We offer a fun filled summer schedule for your child. Weekly field trips, and playing outside on our playgrounds guarantees happy kids this summer. Summer Camp for ages 5-12 years.

850-479-6031 www.misskathys.com

Navarre Montessori Academy Summer Camp

Navarre Montessori Academy, 9540 Navarre Pkwy, Navarre, FL 32566

Summer program in June and July (6 months-9 years), Monday-Thursday 7:30am-3:30pm, indoor

and outdoor activities, Thursdayspizza & water day, every afternoonarts and crafts and more.

850-710-3879 montessorinavarre.com/

PTSDA Karate Summer Camp

2500 Nine Mile Road, Pensacola, FL 32534

Camp runs Monday - Friday 7:30am–3:00pm (extended care available). Ages 6–12 years. Enjoy field trips, sports, crafts and more. 850-478-0680 www.ptsda.com/

Pullum Family YMCA

2379 Pawnee Drive, Navarre, FL 32566

Y Summer Day Camp is a hands-on learning program that introduces youth to a wide range of active play and experiences. Fun daily activities like swimming, computer lab, STEAM projects and weekly field trips.

850-936-0049 www.ymcanwfl.org

Salvation Army Summer Day Camp

The Salvation Army of Pensacola, 1501 North Q Street, Pensacola, FL 32505

Join us for a summer of fun with an around the world theme including field trips, swimming, arts and crafts, recreation, and more. May 29-August 1. 25 spots available. $50-registration fee. Weekly fee-$25 for the 1st child, $15 for the 2nd child, $10 for the 3rd.

850-741-4258 facebook.com/PensacolaSalvationArmy

YMCA Summer Camps on the Gulf at the Vickrey Center - Kidz Fun (K-5) & Teen Leadership (6-8th) 2130 Summit Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32503

Y Summer Day Camp is a hands-on learning

program that introduces youth to a wide range of active play and experiences. Fun daily activities like swimming, computer lab, STEAM projects and weekly field trips.

850-478-1222 www.ymcanwfl.org

Gymnastics & Cheer

First City Summer Camp

65 East Olive Road, Pensacola, FL 32514

Camp runs weekly for Kindergarten-5th grade— games, obstacle courses, gymnastics, ninja classes, field trips, arts & crafts, and more. 850-474-1068 info@firstcitygymnastics.com www.firstcitygymnastics.com

Gulf Breeze Funplex

3123 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Please visit our website or Facebook page for upcoming camp information 850-932-2297 gulfbreezegym@gmail.com www.the-funplex.com

Gulf Coast Elite Gymnastics 1844 Cowen Road, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Join us for a summer of fun! Check our website or call for questions. 850-934-3990 gulfcoastelitegym.com

Horseback Riding

Riverview Camp for Girls

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757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984

2025 Camps run from June 1-July 25. An all-girls overnight camp with short and long-term sessions for girls ages 6-16. Horseback riding, swimming, nature trails, arts and crafts, and much more! Also offering weekend retreats for mother-daughter adventures. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 800-882-0722 info@riverviewcamp.com www.riverviewcamp.com

Hayes Ranch

5091 Berryhill Road, Milton, FL 32570

Camps consist of feeding horses, catching horses, saddling, grooming, riding and cleaning-the full experience of the work and fun it takes to care for horses (ages 8+).

850-324-2477 www.thehayesranch.com

Iron Horse Stables 11 Eden Lane, Cantonment, FL 32533

Learn safety, how horses are fed, their breeds and colors, grooming and saddling skills, clean a stall, and of course RIDING! Camp weeks: May 27-30,

June 2-6, June 9-13, Games camp-June 16-20, Adventure days-June 30, July 1-2, Overnight camp-June 23-27, English Camp-July 7-11, we also have specialty camps. 850-682-0954 www.iron-horse-stables.com/camps

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp for Girls

606 Valley View Ranch Rd, Cloudland, GA 30731

One, two or three-week sessions June 8 – July 25, 2025. Overnight camps for girls, ages 8-17 years. English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails. Beginner and Advanced riders. CHA instructors. 706-862-2231 www.valleyviewranch.com

Music & Theater

Kidtopia - Kindermusik

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Various locations

Our music and movement classes provide research-based activities that stimulate your child’s growing mind and body. Find out more about our classes for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and big kids!

850-520-7144 or 850-520-7166 www.kidtopia.kindermusik.com

Overture Opera Camp by

Pensacola Opera ad on page 15

75 South Tarragona Street, Pensacola, FL 32502

See yourself on stage at Overture Opera Camp. No prior vocal or stage experience required. Over the course of a week, children will work with experienced theatre professionals, musicians,

and music educators to put together their own unique opera production! From creating sets and costumes, to learning their own roles, campers will take part in all aspects of creating an exciting performance. In addition to the production, sessions will also be hosted on topics such as: Stage movement, Dance, Vocal warmups & technique, Music reading & theory. Get hands-on, behind the scenes experience learning what goes into putting together an opera and being a performer. Plus, it’ll be tons of fun!

850-433-6737 cody@pensacolaopera.com www.pensacolaopera.com

Pensacola Children’s Chorus

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46 East Chase Street, Pensacola, FL 32502

Sing in the Summer with Pensacola Children’s Chorus’ weekly performing arts camps! Open to young performers in grades 1-12, your aspiring star will feel right at home on stage with PCC. Multi-week discounts & scholarships available! Limited Availability. Early-bird pricing ends April 15. Come sing with PCC. 850-434-7760 programs@pensacolasings.org www.pensacolasings.org

Dixon After Hours

Dixon School of Arts & Sciences, 1201 N. H. Street, Pensacola, FL Welcoming students ages 6-9 for half day and ages 10-18 for a full day performing arts camp. Campers will participate in a Broadway style production . Students must be a resident of Escambia County. 850-435-0511 www.dixonDAH.com

Little Prodigies Summer Camp

1308 W 9 Mile Rd, Pensacola, FL 32534

Ages 2 to 7. Courses offered in music, art, drama, dance, and gymnastics in a fun, safe environment

between 7:30am and 4:30pm. 850-332-6462 dreamteam@prodigiesonline.com www.prodigiesonline.com

Neighborhood Children’s Theatre

2800 Wilde Lake Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32526

Join us for two weeks of summer theatre camps, UNDERCOVER! June 9-20. The game’s afoot for children ages 4-17 as they unmask mysterious musicals, uncover puzzling plots, and unshroud some Shakespeare. Best of the Coast runner up BEST SUMMER CAMP three years in a row! 857-220-8589 hello@neighborhoodchildrenstheatre. com http://neighborhoodchildrenstheatre.com/

Pensacola Little Theatre

400 South Jefferson Street, Pensacola, FL 32502

Campers at PLT can look forward to producing a special production this summer along with musical theatre and song dance camps, Improv camp, Stage Sprouts (ages 4-7) and more. 850-432-2042 education@pensacolalittletheatre.com www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/summer-camps-2025

Summer Music Jam

Olive Baptist Church, 1836 E Olive Rd, Pensacola, FL 32514

Summer Music JAM is back with loads of opportunity to deepen your understanding of worship and sharpen your skills in the creative arts. July 6-11, 2025. 850-475-1119 www.olivebaptist.org

West Florida Home Education Music Association

First Baptist Church Pensacola, 500 N Palafox St, Pensacola, FL 32501

Summer Music Camp - July 21-25 850-777-8442 (text for info) homeschoolband andstrings@gmail.com facebook.com/wfhema/ www.homeschoolbandandstrings.com

Overnight Camp

Camp O’ the Pines

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10031 Hwy 29 North, Molino, FL 32577

Experience Pensacola’s premier summer camp. You’ll enjoy zip lines, swimming, archery, ping-pong, tetherball, canoeing, paddleboats, water slides, crafts, chapel and other exciting activities! Overnight Camp for Boys & Girls (Ages 8–12). June 15 - 20, June 22 - 27, June 29 - July 4, July 6 - 11, July 13 - 18. 850-898-2170 Info@CampOPines.com www.campopines.com

Riverview Camp for Girls

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757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984

Dauphin Island Sea LabSummer Overnight Camps

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Dauphin Island Sea Lab, 101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL 36528

Barrier Island Explorer: Rising 5th-6th grades June 8-11 or June 22-25; Bay Voyager: Rising Grades: 9th-12th grades June 8-13 or July 20-25; Gulf Island Journey: Rising Grades: 7th-9th graders June 1-6, June 15-20, or July 13-18; Ocean STEM: For rising 7th-8th graders, July 6-9. Registration/camp specifics are available online. 251-861-2141 DHPSummer@disl.edu www.disl.edu/dhp/summer-camps

Dauphin

Island Sea Residential Marine Science Class

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Dauphin Island Sea Lab , 101 Bienville Boulevard, Dauphin Island, AL 36528

June 22 - July 18. The Residential Marine Science Class is a 4-week academic class that introduces high school students to the field of marine science. Students live on the DISL campus and gain a better understanding and appreciation of the various disciplines in marine biology and oceanography. 251-861-2141 DHPSummer@disl.edu www.disl.edu/dhp/summer-camps

2025 Camps run from June 1-July 25. An all-girls overnight camp with short and long-term sessions for girls ages 6-16. Horseback riding, swimming, nature trails, arts and crafts, and much more! Also offering weekend retreats for mother-daughter adventures. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 800-882-0722 info@riverviewcamp.com www.riverviewcamp.com

Aviation Challenge Camp

One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805

We offer space, aviation and robotics camps to children between the ages of 9 to 18. Visit our website for session options, dates and registration. 800-637-7223 camps@spacecamp.com www.spacecamp.com/aviation

Camp ASCCA

5278 Camp Ascca Dr, Jacksons Gap, AL 36861

Camp ASCCA offers campers a wide variety of traditional recreational and educational activities with a unique design for accessibility. Summer sessions begin June 15, 2025. 256-825-9226 info@campascca.org www.campascca.org

Camp Beckwith

10400 Beckwith Lane, Fairhope, AL 36532

Join us for the Best Week Ever at Beckwith, packed with sailing, swimming, arts & crafts, zip-lining, and so much more! Visit our website for information about dates and rates. 251-928-7844 www.beckwithal.com

Camp Marymount

1318 Fairview Boulevard, Fairview, TN 37062

For rising 1st through rising 11th graders—two for boys and two for girls. We create an atmosphere where children can be themselves without the distractions of technology and the outside world. 615-799-0410 campmarymount.com

Camp Seale Harris

Camp Seale Harris is for kids & teens with diabetes and their family members. Camps & programs are available in several cities. 205-402-0415 campsealeharris.org

Camp Walkabout

171 Baylor School Road, Chattanooga, TN 37405

From hiking and paddling to caving and climbing, The Walkabout Experience brings a new adventure every day. Ages 8-16.

423-757-2515 baylorschool.org

Camp Woodmont

381 Moonlight Drive, Cloudland, GA 30731

ACA accredited camp-loads of activities: archery, climbing, horseback riding, canoeing, crafts, games and more! 1 & 2 week sessions for boys & girls 6 to 15. Season: June 1-July 25. 423-472-6070 www.campwoodmont.com

Scout BSA Camp

Spanish Trail Scout Reservation, 315 Pat Covell Road, Defuniak Springs, FL 32433

Since 1961, 1200 acres & 40-acre lake, great traditional programs and newly added high adventure trips for boys and girls, Offering a fun-filled week of outdoor scouting experiences. Week 1: June 8-14, 2025, Week 2: June 15-21, 2025. 850-476-6336 www.stsr-gcc.org

Teen Extreme Youth Camp

Pensacola Christian College, 250 Brent Lane, Pensacola, FL 32503

The days and evenings will be packed with extreme competitions and activities. You will experience uplifting messages and create new friendships on the campus of Pensacola Christian College in Pensacola, FL. A week you will never forget!

850-969-1555 www.teenextremecamp.com

Sports Camp

Challenger International Soccer Camp

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Roger Scott Athletic Complex, 2130 Summit Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32503

June 2 – June 6 and July 14 – July 18, 2025. Monday – Friday. Times vary by age group. Ages: 3-14years. $80-$220. This program is brought to you by Play Pensacola! Challenger Sports, the leading soccer camp company in North America, has combined the most popular elements of British Soccer and TetraBrazil, integrating them into a collection of the most effective soccer practices used by youth teams around the world.

https://challenger.configio.com/pd/249464

Chip Boes Championship Basketball Camp

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Ferry Pass Middle School , 8355 Yancey Lane, Pensacola, FL 32514

June 2-6, June 16-20, July 14-18, 2025. MondayFriday 9:00am-12:30pm. Ages: 7-14 years. $115 per session. This program is brought to you by Play Pensacola! The Chip Boes Championship Basketball Camp is a five-day clinic with strong emphasis on individual skill development led by highly successful former high school and college coach and five-time “Coach of the Year” award winner Chip Boes. Each participant receives a basketball and a camp shirt. Participants will enjoy an ice cream party, group and individual

competitions, league and tournament play and more!

850-968-9299 - For calls and voice message 850-449-9958 – For texting chipboes@gmail.com www.chipboes.blogspot.com

Girls Summer Volleyball Camp

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Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA, 165 East Intendencia Street, Pensacola, FL 32501

June 16 – June 20 and July 21 – July 25, 2025. Monday - Friday 9:00am-12:00pm. Ages 9-14 years. $100. Onsite registration will not be available. Mail registration to Vickrey Resource Center, 2130 Summit Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32503. Please make checks payable to Pati Gandolfo. This program is brought to you by Play Pensacola! Don’t miss this great camp conducted by PSC Head Volleyball Coach, Pati Gandolfo. 850-341-6035 jbvbcamps@gmail.com www.cityofpensacola.com/877/Volleyball

Gospel Projects Youth Athletic

Club

Aquatics Program

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6331 Chestnut Street, Milton, FL 32570

GPYAC Aquatics program offers group swim lessons and team readiness programs. Lessons are taught by Certified Water Safety Instructors held at GPYAC swimming pool. Must be 4 years old+ at the time of lessons. GPYAC partners with the Greater Pensacola Aquatics Program and participates in their sponsored competitions for ages six through high school. Find us on Facebook.com/ Gospel Projects Youth Athletic Club 850-623-4671 sports@youthathleticclub.org www.youthathleticclub.org

i9 Sports Basketball and Baseball Camps

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Wilde Lake Church, 22800 Wilde Lake Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32526

i9 Sports camps for children, ages 7-12. Our camps offer a skill developing environment focused on building and improving the fundamental skills and game knowledge of the sport. Basketball Camps: Dates: 6/23-6/26 and 7/21-7/24, Time: 9am-12pm. Registration deadline: June camp-6/20 and July camp-7/18. Volleyball Camps: Dates: 6/9 - 6/12 and 7/14 - 7/17, Time: 5:30pm8pm. Registration deadline: June camp-6/6 and July camp-7/11

850-565-1935 justin.ward@i9sports.com www.i9sports.com

NEXT Summer Camps: Sports Camps for Teens

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Pensacola Christian College, 250 Brent Lane, Pensacola, FL 32503

Build new friendships, learn from teachers and coaches who love what they do, and share experiences only athletes get. Prepare to jump into an unforgettable summer at the camp of your choice on Pensacola Christian College’s campus. Sports Camps include: Guys Soccer, Guys and Girls Basketball, and Girls Volleyball. 850-969-1690 info@nextsummercamps.com www.nextsummercamps.com/Register25

Ace Volleyball Camps

University of West Florida, Pensacola, FL 32514 Variety of Volleyball camps that will improve the player’s individual and team skills. Youth camps-

May 26, June 22, July 13; College prep camp-May 5: Elite camp-July 14-15, Pass and defense camp-July 16, Setter camp-July 16, Hitting camp-July 16, www.acevolleyballcamps.com

BOUNCE Basketball

University of West Florida Field House, 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32514

Offering Basketball Day Camps on June 23-26 & July 21-24, Elite Camp on August 16, Team Camp on June 9-10 & June 16-17, and special sessions throughout the year.

www. BOUNCEBasketball.org

Breakthrough Basketball Camps

Pensacola State College - Hartsell Arena, 1000 College Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32504

Essential Youth Skills & Decision Making Basketball Camp-July 9-11, 2025 (boys and girls from 3rd grade-8th grade); Shooting & Ball Handling Basketball Camp-July 16-18, 2025 (boys and girls from 7th grade-12th grade) 866-846-7892 www.breakthroughbasketball.com

Pensacola Catholic High Sports Camps

Catholic High Campus, 3043 West Scott Street, Pensacola, FL 32505

Pensacola Catholic High School offers summer camp programs in a wide variety of sports for boys and girls in age groups from 5 to 14. 850-436-6400 x112 pensacolachs.org/summercamps

Pensacola Futbol Cllub

At Pensacola FC we strive to have the best camps there are with professional coaches and

setups. Our camps are designed for players who are wanting to gain more experience and improve their skills no matter their level of play. All camps have a strong emphasis on small sided games to promote individual player confidence. 850-477-7842 www.pensacolafutbolclub.com/ summer-camps

Pins & Pals Bowling Camp

Cordova Lanes, 2111 Airport Boulevard, Pensacola, FL 32503

Pins and Pals Summer Camp - dates -TBA. Monday-Friday 10:00am-1:00pm. Ages 5-18 years. Camp-lessons, rental shoes, lunch, bowling ball, custom fitted in your choice of weight and color. Space is limited–make your reservations early. 850-477-2300 www.cordovalanes.com

Wrestling Camp

Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Camp: June 6-8, 2025-Gulf Breeze High School-3 days of wrestling action with our top-tier lineup of clinicians. 850-341-9450 www.welltrainedelite.com/camps

STEM, Education, & Miscellaneous

Code Ninjas

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3 W. Nine Mile Road, Pensacola, FL 32534

Our camps offer an immersive environment for children to explore and develop new skills, gain confidence, and have fun with friends. From coding and game building to STEM and robotics-it’s an unforgettable experience! Exciting camps include App Development, Cybersecurity, Minecraft, Roblox, AI, 3D Printing, and more! Half-day camps or stay all day by enrolling in both morning and afternoon camps. Ages 5-14.

850-889-8636 pensacolafl@codeninjas.com www.codeninjas.com/fl-pensacola

Key Tutoring

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418 W Garden St, Pensacola, FL 32502

At Key Tutoring Resources, we provide total academic support for students of all ages, from early reading to advanced math. Our experienced tutors specialize in one-on-one, customized lessons tailored to each student’s unique needs, including support for learning differences like dyslexia using the Barton System. This summer we’re excited to offer: Kindergarten Boot Camp (perfect for preparing little learners for school!), Reading Classes (to boost literacy and confidence), Fun, Engaging Summer Classes (because learning should be exciting!) Flexible scheduling options include

in-person or Zoom sessions, making it easy to fit into your summer plans. We also accept Step Up Scholarships to make our services accessible to all families. Visit our website or call for more details! 850-586-2823 Janice@keytutoringresources.com www.keytutoringresources.com

NEXT Summer Camps: Academic Camps for Teens

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Pensacola Christian College, 250 Brent Lane, Pensacola, FL 32503

Build new friendships, learn from teachers and coaches who love what they do. Sharing experi ences you won’t find at home. Get ready to jump into an unforgettable summer at the camp of your choice on Pensacola Christian College’s campus. Academic Camps include: Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Engineering and Science, History and Political Science, Nursing, Pre-Med, Writing, Art, Drama, and Music. 850-969-1690 info@nextsummercamps.com www.nextsummercamps.com/Register25

Pensacola MESS Hall

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418 E Wright Street, Pensacola, FL tific curiosity! May 27-August 1, 2024. Offering weeklong, half day & full day exploration of topics in science. Camps are for students entering grades 1-6 in Fall 2025. Camp themes and regis tration are available online!

877-937-6377 info@pensacolamesshall.org www.pensacolamesshall.org

Read Write Learning Center

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1010 N 12th Avenue #122 , Pensacola, FL 32501

Educational consulting, testing, and academic therapy for language based learning disabilities such as dyslexia.

850-498-6364 pensacolaoffice@readwritelearningcenter.com www.readwritelearningcenter.com

Rising Minds Learning & Lovelock Healing Arts

Summer Camp

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Lovelock Healing Arts, 213 South Baylen Street, Pensacola, FL 32502

Join Rising Minds Learning and Lovelock Healing Arts this summer for an enriching, small-group camp. Daily Activities: Engaging reading and math enrichment, rotating yoga and music sessions led by specialized instructors, hands-on science experiments, creative take-home crafts. Tuition: $250 per week. Step Up For Students scholarships accepted. Discounts available for siblings and multi-week enrollments. Space is limited to 10 children per session so register today! 850-343-5060

info@lovelockhealingarts.com www.lovelockhealingarts.com

ULA Galactic Adventure

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Umbrella Learning Academy, 4081 E Olive Rd, Ste A, Pensacola, FL 32514

A 10 week galactic adventure full of creativity, hands-on science, and exciting field trips to museums, planetariums, and more! Don’t miss this out-of-this-world adventure! 850-361-3277 information@umbrellalearning academy.com www.umbrellalearningacademy.com

Make Learning Easier This Year

Brain Integration TherapyAt-home midline therapy to establish the student's midline to create permanent connections among the four learning gates: Reading, Writing, Speech/Memory & Focus/Attention. Only 20 minutes a day!

Right Brain “Healing” TeachingUse right brain, visual teaching strategies to train your child’s powerful photographic memory. Watch them make leaps in learning in just one school year and boost their confidence. The healing teaching you both need!

customersuccess@diannecraft.org https://diannecraft.org/where-do-i-start/

Targeted Nutritional PlanDive deeper into the Brain/Gut connection to help your child focus easier and have better retention. Make huge changes in focusing, mood, attitude, meltdowns, memory, APD, Autism and SPD.

2025 Flight Adventure Deck

Summer Camp

1750 Radford Blvd., Ste C, Pensacola, FL 32508

Camps-Aviation Camp-Learn aerospace science and naval aviation with hands-on activities. Dates: June 9-13, June 23-27, July 7-11 (rising 4th-6th graders), Space Exploration Camp-Learn the history/ science of space flight, celestial mechanics, and communications. Dates: July 21–25 (rising 5th-7th graders), Scout Merit Badge CampJuly 14-18 (ages 11-17)

850-308-8958 www.navalaviationmuseum.org

Aviation Challenge Camp

ming. : June 6-9, 9:30am-3pm (rising 8th graders), June 9-12. 9am-3pm (rising 9th and 10th graders)

850-202-4462 www.ihmc.us/life/robotics-camp

One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805

See more details under Overnight Camps. 800-637-7223 camps@spacecamp.com www.spacecamp.com/aviation

Explore Summer Camps

Various locations, Pensacola, FL Explore Camps provide an opportunity for kids to explore their creativity, challenge their minds and build new friendships. STEAM-based academics plus a creative atmosphere results in one-of-a-kind summer camp experiences.

850-473-7468 explorecamps@uwf.edu www.uwf.edu/explorecamps

IHMC’s Summer Robotics Camp

IHMC Pensacola, 40 S Alcaniz Street, Pensacola, FL 32502

Robotics Camp offers students the opportunity to learn about robotics and computer program -

Kids for Camp -

Autism Pensacola

various locations, Pensacola, FL

Kids for Camp 2025 Dates: June 17 to July 22, 2025, 9:00am-2:30pm, Monday-Thursday. A program that uses Applied Behavior Analysis, to support individuals with autism. Call for program availability. Application Period: February 5 to March 5, 2025. Applications online. 850-434-7171 autismpensacola.org/our-programs/ kids-for-camp

National Flight Academy

1 Fetterman Way, Pensacola, FL 32508

An 6 day overnight camp for rising 7-12th graders that inspires interest in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Students live in a multi-story, 102,000 square foot facility experiencing theme-park style thrills surrounded

by advanced technology, flight simulators and virtual reality games that ignite imagination and encourage learning. Dates: 5/18-5/23, 5/25-5/30, 6/1-6/6, 6/8-6/13, 7/207/25, 7/27-8/1

850-458-7836 www.nationalflightacademy.com

Pensacola Cooks Baking and Cooking Camps

Warrington Shopping Center, 4051 Barrancas Avenue, Suite C, Pensacola, FL 32507

Summer 2025 Themes: Camp Culinary Cinema, Camp Pastry Chef, Camp Cooking FUN-damentals, Camp Flour Power, Camp Test Kitchen, Camp Flavors of the Five Flags.

Visit our website for dates, hours, ages, and registration information. $285 per camper, per week. Follow us on social! Facebook: Pensacola Cooks Commissary and Classroom AND PCKids Jr. Chefs -- Instagram: @pckblessed. 850-456-0743 denise@pensacolacooks.com www.pensacolacooks.com

Rising Minds Learning

27 E Wright St, Pensacola, FL

Does your child need a jump-start for the upcoming school year or a little extra support to master foundational skills? Our Extended Year Program provides targeted small-group instruction for incoming 1st to 5th graders. Led by experienced teachers, each week is designed to reinforce grade-level Reading or Math objectives (or both!) in a fun and supportive environment.

850-332-3338 www.risingmindslearning.com

Watersports – Surf, Swim, Fishing, Boating

Pensacola Yacht Club

Summer Sailing

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1897 Cypress Street, Pensacola, FL 32502

Summer Sailing Camps: Summer Sailing (ages 6-13, 9am-3pm, Aftercare available, Cost-$375/ week, Aftercare: $25/day or $110/week) Camps run June 2-August 8. 850-723-1278 cesar@pycflboard.com https://pycsailingschool.wixsite.com/home/2025summer-sailing

Play Pensacola Advanced

Fishing Camp

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Bayview Community Resource Center, 2001 East Llyod Street , Pensacola, FL 32503 June 16-20 & June 23-27, 2025. Ages: 9-16 years. Monday - Friday 8:00am-4:00pm. $295 City Resident/$305 Non-Resident, per session. Register online only beginning April 1. Learn the places around town to fish and enjoy the outdoors. Campers enjoy a charter boat trip on Thursday. 850-436-5692 ppipes@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Play Pensacola Beginning

Fishing Camp

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2001 East Llyod Street , Pensacola, FL 32503 May 27-30, 2025. Ages: 8-14 years. Monday -

Friday 8:00am-4:00pm. $170 City Resident/$180 Non-Resident, per session. Register online only beginning April 1. Learn to fish, identify species and enjoy the outdoors. Campers receive a tackle box and fishing pole at the end of camp. 850-436-5692 ppipes@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Play Pensacola Kayaking/SUP (Stand-up Paddleboard) Camp

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Bayview Community Resource Center, 2001 East Llyod Street , Pensacola, FL 32503 June 2-6 & June 9-13, 2025. Ages 9-16 years. Monday - Friday 8:00am-4:00pm. $190 City Resident/$200 Non-Resident, per session. Register online April 1. Your child will learn the fundamentals of Stand-Up paddleboard (SUP) and kayaking, first in a pool then out on the open water. River Trip on Thursday! 850-436-5692 ppipes@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Play

Pensacola Outdoor Adventure Camp

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Bayview Community Resource Center, 2001 East Llyod Street , Pensacola, FL 32503 July 7-11, July 14-18, and July 21-25, 2025. Ages: 9-16 years. Monday - Friday 8:00am-4:00pm. $190 City Resident/$200 Non-Resident, per session. Register online only beginning April 1. Learn about kayaking, fishing, hiking, rock climbing, archery and environmental stewardship. 850-436-5692 ppipes@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com/940/Summer-Camps

Waterboyz Summer Camps

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Pensacola Beach (Surf Camp and Skimboard Camp), Waterboyz skatepark (Skate Camp), 380 North 9th Avenue, Pensacola, FL 32501

The 2025 Waterboyz Surf/Skim/Skate Camps will be held on Pensacola Beach from 9am-12pm Mon-Thur. Camp size is limited per week! Must be at least 7 years old. Action-packed camps all summer long! Our instructors represent some of Pensacola’s top surfers, skimboarders, and skaters. For further information, visit our website and check out our social media accounts. Use code GPPRULES for 10% discount 850-433-2929 help@waterboyz.com www.waterboyz.com

Greater Pensacola Aquatics ClubSummer League Swimming Summer swim teams forming. Programs May-July will be held at Pensacola State College, University of West Florida & Santa Rosa Christian School. . 850-484-1312 www.teamunify.com

Innerlight Surf Camp

6 Casino Beach Boardwalk, Gulf Breeze, FL

Whether you’ve never set foot on a board, or just want to sharpen your skills, Surf Camp is a fun and unique experience. Camps are from 9:00am1:00pm for ages 7-Adult. 850- 932-5134 innerlightsurf.com/pages/surf-camp

Junior Lifeguard - Pensacola Beach

Quietwater Beach Pavilions, Our program offers an alternative summer camp that promotes physical fitness, training in beach safety and education. Ages 13-15. 2025 Summer Program DatesSession 1-June 16-27, Session 2-July 21 - Aug. 1 (Monday-Friday, 9am-3:30pm) 850-595-4115 https://myescambia.com

There are so many great reasons why you should consider sending your kids to sleepaway camp this summer, and it’s not only because they’ll have a whole lot of fun. Based on my experiences as the parent of a teenager who loves summer camp as well as conversations with other parents, I’ve learned that sleepaway camp can be character-building.

Here are 5 different ways your kids will develop and mature at overnight camp.

Independence

For most kids, sleepaway camp is the first time they get to experience real independence. They’re away from their parents and other adult family members for an extended period of time, and they’ve got to quickly learn how to take care of themselves, from getting themselves ready in the morning to choosing their daily activities. Of course, there are counselors who are responsible for the overall welfare of the kids, but unlike teachers who tell kids what to do, camp counselors act much more like older brothers and sisters who’re on a joint adventure with the kids. I’ll never forget the first time my spouse and I picked up our son from sleepaway camp. He acted like a completely different person than the one we’d left behind only a few short weeks earlier: independent, mature, and with a confident, knowing demeanor.

Organization

Sleepaway teaches kids how to become better organized. From the moment they wake up in the morning to the moment they go to sleep at night, they have to make many choices that require them to learn how to organize themselves and their time. For example, in the morning they’re supposed to wake up, get dressed, brush their teeth, make their beds, and walk to the dining hall at the same time and together with all the other kids they’re bunking with. But unlike in school where teachers tell kids exactly what to do and when, camp counselors expect that kids figure it out themselves. And that includes not forgetting to put their dirty clothes in the hamper on laundry day.

Compassion

Not every kid easily adjusts to being away from their parents for a long period of time, and not every kid easily makes new friends. If there’s one area where camp counselors do actively step in it’s when someone is homesick or just not happy. Camp counselors show kids how to treat others with compassion, care, and respect. Many camps also have a buddy system where kids are teamed up to support another and do fun things together.

Conflict-Resolution

Comradery

Kids also learn some very valuable lessons about comradery. Camps often let parents request that their kids bunk with friends from home. Yet, they’ll also bunk with many other kids, often from different states and countries. This will teach them how to get along with and enjoy the company of kids with very different backgrounds than their own. Most camps are aware of this and organize activities aimed at creating a strong sense of comradery and community, including evening camp fires, sing-a-longs, and the ever-popular Camp Olympics.

Sometimes, despite camp counselors’ best efforts, conflicts do occur over who bunks together, who sits next to whom at meal times, and who plays with whom. After all, kids often live in cramped quarters at camp, with unfamiliar roommates. But that’s not such a bad thing: one of the most important skills kids learn at sleepaway camp is how to solve interpersonal conflicts on their own. Camp counselors certainly step in to solve serious conflicts. But they’ll typically let the kids solve the small ones on their own. And this is a great skill kids bring home with them and use long after the camp is over.

Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.

FamilyCalendar

Saturday March 1

Perdido or Blackwater River Trip ($75 with kayak rental | $50 with own kayak and equipment)

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Pensacola, FL Cool clear waters, picturesque sand bars, fascinating wildlife. A classic river trip. River location dependent on water levels. Van shuttle included. You don’t want to miss this! www.cityofpensacola.com/2806/Programs-Events

Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)

9:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/

Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade

2:00 PM Palafox St, Pensacola, FL https://pensacolamardigras.com/event/pensacolagrand-mardi-gras-parade-2/

Pensacola Foiling Week

Pensacola Yacht Club, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Foiling Week tests and trials are open to sailors and beginners with the possibility to sail the latest foiling boats, boards and gears. During the weekend the Foiling Week Village at Maritime Park will give the opportunity to watch close racing, visit an expo showcasing the latest in high-tech nautical equipment and apparel, listen to discussions on the evolution of foiling, and enjoy musical performances. Visit our website for more information.

https://foilingweek.com/landing/pensacola-2025/

Sunday March 2

Krewe of Wrecks Mardi Gras Parade

2:00 PM Via de Luna and Avenida 10 to the Gulfside Pavilion, Pensacola, FL The parade rolls at 2 p.m. from Via de Luna and Avenida 10 to the Gulfside Pavilion.

https://pensacolamardigras.com/event/krewe-ofwrecks-beach-parade/

Pensacola Foiling Week

Pensacola Yacht Club, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Foiling Week tests and trials are open to sailors and beginners with the possibility to sail the latest foiling boats, boards and gears. During the weekend the Foiling Week Village at Maritime Park will give the opportunity to watch close racing, visit an expo showcasing the latest in high-tech nautical equipment and apparel, listen to discussions on the evolution of foiling, and enjoy musical performances. Visit our website for more information.

https://foilingweek.com/landing/pensacola-2025/

Tuesday March 4

French Quarter Fat Tuesday Celebration 11:00 AM 130 E Government St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Organizers are going for a Big Easy-style Mardi Gras Festival that will include a low country Boil, food trucks, and dancing and partying downtown.

Sun Belt Conference Basketball Tournament

Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Division I basketball has landed in Pensacola! March 4-10, 2025, both the men’s and women’s Sun Belt Basketball Championship Tournament will be at the Pensacola Bay Center. For one week, watch some of the best athletes in college basketball face off for

their chance to win big to make it to the 2024 NCAA Division I Men and Women’s Basketball Tournament. www.visitpensacola.com/sunbelt

Wednesday March 5

Know Child Abuse Community Training

3:00 PM - 4:30 PM, Gulf Coast Kids House, 3401 N 12th Ave Pensacola, FL, 32503 Join us at Gulf Coast Kids House for a complimentary Know Child Abuse training and tour of the campus to equip yourself with the tools to recognize, report, and reduce child abuse in Escambia County. The training is open to the community. Light refreshments provided. Registration required. For more info or to register, contact Amy at 850-595-0384 or email prevention2@gulfcoastkidshouse.org. 850-595-0384 prevention2@gulfcoastkidshouse.org www.gulfcoastkidshouse.org

Campfire History

3:30 PM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 tive history program by a campfire. A volunteer will meet participants to start the campfire beginning at 3:30 PM in February and the first Wednesday in March at the Governor’s Pavilion located at West Beach. www.floridastateparks.org/events/campfire-history-3

Killer Queen

remains relevant today as a cautionary tale about the fragility of justice and the ease with which fear can be manipulated for political or personal gain. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/

Sun Belt Conference Basketball Tournament Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Division I basketball has landed in Pensacola! March 4-10, 2025, both the men’s and women’s Sun Belt Basketball Championship Tournament will be at the Pensacola Bay Center. For one week, watch some of the best athletes in college basketball face off for their chance to win big to make it to the 2024 NCAA Division I Men and Women’s Basketball Tournament. www.visitpensacola.com/sunbelt

Friday March 7

Mom 2 Mom Kids Resale Event ($1.00)

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 36526 Coast’s Largest Kids Resale Event-A semi-annual event located at the Pensacola Fairgrounds www.mom2momsale.net/

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 A tribute to queen show. www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Sun Belt Conference Basketball Tournament

Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Division I basketball has landed in Pensacola! March 4-10, 2025, both the men’s and women’s Sun Belt Basketball Championship Tournament will be at the Pensacola Bay Center. For one week, watch some of the best athletes in college basketball face off for their chance to win big to make it to the 2024 NCAA Division I Men and Women’s Basketball Tournament. www.visitpensacola.com/sunbelt

Thursday March 6

Mom 2 Mom Kids Resale Event ($1.00)

10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 36526 Gulf Coast’s Largest Kids Resale Event-A semi-annual event located at the Pensacola Fairgrounds www.mom2momsale.net/

Light Up Learning

5:30 PM Blue Wahoo Stadium, 351 W Cedar St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Light Up Learning is a fundraising event hosted by the Studer Community Institute to support the Early Brain Development Program. www.studeri.org/LUL

PSC Performing Arts Presents The Crucible 7:30 PM Ashmore Fine Arts Center, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 Presented by PSC’s Performing Arts Department, Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” is a classic play that delves into the Salem witch trials of 1692. Miller’s narrative not only captures the historical context of the trials, but also serves as a powerful commentary on the dangers of mass hysteria and the consequences of blind conformity. The Crucible

330 South Jefferson

stories once again! StoryTyme is at 11:00 a.m. on se lect Fridays. Free program in the Party Central Room. March 7: Little Red Riding Hood https://historicpensacola.org/plan-your-visit/muse ums-properties/pensacola-childrens-museum/

6th Annual Women’s Empowerment Awards

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5:30 PM Historic Museum of Commerce, Pensacola, FL The Junior League of Pensacola invites you to join us in a celebration of local women in leadership. The Women’s Empowerment Awards will honor 7 women who will receive a Women’s Empowerment Award in various categories https://www.eventbrite.com

Pensacola Little Theatre presents The Play That Goes Wrong

7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 The Play That Goes Wrong is a hilarious comedy that follows the antics of the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society as they attempt to stage a murder mystery play titled “The Murder at Haversham Manor.” However, everything that can go wrong goes wrong, leading to hilarious chaos on stage.

www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ the-play-that-goes-wrong

PSC Performing Arts Presents The Crucible

7:30 PM Ashmore Fine Arts Center, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 Presented by PSC’s Performing Arts Department, Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” is a classic play that delves into the Salem witch trials of 1692. Miller’s narrative not only captures the historical context of the trials, but also serves as a powerful commentary on the dangers of mass hysteria and the consequences of blind conformity. The Crucible remains relevant today as a cautionary tale about the fragility of justice and the ease with which fear can be manipulated for political or personal gain. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/

Sun Belt Conference Basketball Tournament Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Division I basketball has landed in Pensacola!

Join us at the newly opened Pensacola Children’s Museum where

make learning fun! Find our updated hours and site information by visiting HistoricPensacola.org.

Now Open!

FamilyCalendar

March 4-10, 2025, both the men’s and women’s Sun Belt Basketball Championship Tournament will be at the Pensacola Bay Center. For one week, watch some of the best athletes in college basketball face off for their chance to win big to make it to the 2024 NCAA Division I Men and Women’s Basketball Tournament. www.visitpensacola.com/sunbelt

Saturday March 8

Mom 2 Mom Kids Resale Event ($1.00) 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 36526 Gulf Coast’s Largest Kids Resale Event-A semi-annual event located at the Pensacola Fairgrounds www.mom2momsale.net/

Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)

9:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/

UWF Arbor Day Market

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, University of West Florida Pensacola Campus, Pensacola, FL, 32514 Free Native Species Trees made possible by event partner International Paper – while supplies last, limit of two trees per household. Guided nature trail walking tours UF/IFAS Extension – Information and advice from Master Gardeners on native plants and Florida-friendly landscaping Florida Forest Service https://events.uwf.edu/event/arbor-day-market-2025

McGuire’s St. Patrick’s Day Run

9:00 AM McGuire’s Irish Pub, 600 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 The McGuire’s St. Patrick’s Day Run is the Largest 5k Prediction Run in America! Rain or shine! Everyone is welcome. Crossing the finish line is just the beginning, come for the run, stay for the party!

https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Pensacola/McGuiresStPatricksDayPrediction5KRun

Pensacola Home Show

10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 36526 At the Home Show, our goal is simple: to inspire, motivate and excite you for your upcoming home improvement - whether it’s a minor renovation or a major remodel. www.homeshowspensacola.com/

Symphonic Spectacular Dress Rehearsal ($10) 1:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for a working dress rehearsal of this program. General admission tickets are $10 and may be purchased at the door, by phone, or in person.

https://pensacolasymphony.com/

Sun Belt Dribble Drive

2:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 The 2025 Sun Belt Conference Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Dribble Drive is scheduled for Saturday, March 8th beginning at 2:00pm at the Pensacola Bay Center. Children ages 3-12 are welcome to join in on the fun and dribble their basketball around the venue grounds and into the Bay Center where games will be taking place. Each participant will receive a FREE t-shirt, a

FREE basketball and two FREE tickets to the March 8th women’s quarterfinal games slated for 2:30pm. www.visitpensacola.com/sunbelt

An Evening Under the Stars

5:45 PM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park along with the Escambia Amateur Astronomer Association would like to invite you to spend an evening gazing at the skies! Clear skies permitting, members of the Association will set up telescopes and binoculars to capture views of the moon, planets, and other celestial objects. www.floridastateparks.org/

Pensacola Little Theatre presents The Play That Goes Wrong

7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 The Play That Goes Wrong is a hilarious comedy that follows the antics of the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society as they attempt to stage a murder mystery play titled “The Murder at Haversham Manor.” However, everything that can go wrong goes wrong, leading to hilarious chaos on stage. www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ the-play-that-goes-wrong

Symphonic Spectacular

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Some composers looked within for inspiration, while others looked up. Join us for Gustav Holst’s The Planets, evoking the astrological characterizations of our celestial neighbors. https://pensacolasymphony.com/

PSC Performing Arts Presents The Crucible 7:30 PM Ashmore Fine Arts Center, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 Presented by PSC’s Performing Arts Department, Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” is a classic play that delves into the Salem witch trials of 1692. Miller’s narrative not only captures the historical context of the trials, but also serves as a powerful commentary on the dangers of mass hysteria and the consequences of blind conformity. The Crucible remains relevant today as a cautionary tale about the fragility of justice and the ease with which fear can be manipulated for political or personal gain.

performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/

Project Formal Trunk Show for FREE Formal Wear

Pensacola, FL, 32505 4EVR DEZ, a 501c3 nonprofit has released its Prom Trunk Show Dates for the 2025 High School Prom Season. Students wanting FREE formal wear will have two weekends to choose from, March 8 - 9 & April Date: TBA. Students or parents are encouraged to register for free formal wear. Registration helps the nonprofit plan for dress sizes and volunteers. www.projectformal.com

Sun Belt Conference Basketball Tournament

Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Division I basketball has landed in Pensacola! March 4-10, 2025, both the men’s and women’s Sun Belt Basketball Championship Tournament will be at the Pensacola Bay Center. For one week, watch some of the best athletes in college basketball face off for their chance to win big to make it to the 2024 NCAA Division I Men and Women’s Basketball Tournament. www.visitpensacola.com/sunbelt

Sunday March 9

Pensacola Home Show

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 36526 At the Home Show, our goal is simple: to inspire, motivate and excite you for your upcoming home improvement - whether it’s a minor renovation or a major remodel.

www.homeshowspensacola.com/

Pensacola Little Theatre presents The Play That Goes Wrong

2:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 The Play That Goes Wrong is a hilarious comedy that follows the antics of the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society as they attempt to stage a murder mystery play titled “The Murder at Haversham Manor.” However, everything that can go wrong goes wrong, leading to hilarious chaos on stage.

www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ the-play-that-goes-wrong

PSC Performing Arts Presents The Crucible 2:30 PM Ashmore Fine Arts Center, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 Presented by PSC’s Performing Arts Department, Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible” is a classic play that delves into the Salem witch trials of 1692. Miller’s narrative not only captures the historical context of the trials, but also serves as a powerful commentary on the dangers of mass hysteria and the consequences of blind conformity. The Crucible remains relevant today as a cautionary tale about the fragility of justice and the ease with which fear can be manipulated for political or personal gain. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/

Project Formal Trunk Show for FREE Formal Wear

Pensacola, FL, 32505 4EVR DEZ, a 501c3 nonprofit has released its Prom Trunk Show Dates for the 2025 High School Prom Season. Students wanting FREE formal wear will have two weekends to choose from, March 8 - 9 & April Date: TBA. Students or parents are encouraged to register for free formal wear. Registration helps the nonprofit plan for dress sizes and volunteers. www.projectformal.com

Sun Belt Conference Basketball Tournament

Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Division I basketball has landed in Pensacola! March 4-10, 2025, both the men’s and women’s Sun Belt Basketball Championship Tournament will be at the Pensacola Bay Center. For one week, watch some of the best athletes in college basketball face off for their chance to win big to make it to the 2024 NCAA Division I Men and Women’s Basketball Tournament.

www.visitpensacola.com/sunbelt

Monday March 10

Sun Belt Conference Basketball Tournament Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Division I basketball has landed in Pensacola! March 4-10, 2025, both the men’s and women’s Sun Belt Basketball Championship Tournament will be at the Pensacola Bay Center. For one week, watch some of the best athletes in college basketball face off for their chance to win big to make it to the 2024 NCAA Division I Men and Women’s Basketball Tournament.

www.visitpensacola.com/sunbelt

FamilyCalendar

Thursday March 13

Clover Pick A Bowl Fill A Bowl

6:00 PM Pensacola State College’s Lou Ross Center, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 Choose a one-of-a-kind handcrafted clay bowl thrown by a local potter to keep, sample some of the best soups in town, sip on wine and beer (must be 21 or older), and enjoy a few special features! Each ticket sold will provide 30 healthy meals to neighbors in need in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. www.mannahelps.org/events/pick-a-bowl-fill-a-bowl/

TobyMac Hits Deep 2025

7:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 TOBYMAC’S HITS DEEP 2025 promises to be a musical journey like no other. It will have you on your feet, singing your heart out, and experiencing the power of music in an epic dance party with thousands of new friends. pensacolabaycenter.com/events/detail/tobymac-3

PSC’s Wind & Jazz Ensembles

7:30 PM Ashmore Auditorium, Pensacola, FL, 32504 Spend your evening listening to our Wind and Jazz Ensemble tantalize your ears with their smooth melodies. These Pensacola State students are under the direction of our magnificent band director, Doug Holsworth. The event is free admission and open to the public! performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/

Friday March 14

Pi Day ($30) 6:00 PM Pensacola Mess Hall, 418 E Wright St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Celebrate irrationality at the MESS Hall. We will have pies, both pizza and dessert, from area restaurants for you to sample while exploring the properties of the other kind of pi. Ticket price includes admission, access to regular MESS Hall exhibits, themed activities, and drink tickets for adult beverages.

https://pensacolamesshall.org

Pensacola Little Theatre presents The Play That Goes Wrong

7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 The Play That Goes Wrong is a hilarious comedy that follows the antics of the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society as they attempt to stage a murder mystery play titled “The Murder at Haversham Manor.” However, everything that can go wrong goes wrong, leading to hilarious chaos on stage. www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ the-play-that-goes-wrong

Pensacola Opera- Pagliacci

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Opera- Pagliacci www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Big Bounce America

Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 36526 The world’s biggest touring inflatable theme park! Currently touring the US delivering super-sized fun!

https://thebigbounceamerica.com/event/pensacola/

2025 Cinemas in the Sand (Free) Gulfside Pavilion on Casino Beach, Pensacola, FL Pack up your beach chairs and a blanket, and dig your toes in the sugar-white sand while watching classic family movies on Pensacola Beach. The 2025 Cinemas in the Sand movie nights return in March through October

on the following Friday nights from the Gulfside Pavilion on Casino Beach. Each movie will begin at sunset https://visitpensacolabeach.com/cinemas-in-the-sand/

Saturday March 15

Shamrock Stroll 5K Fun Run/Walk | Pet Parade | Costume Contest on Navarre Beach

8:00 AM Navarre, FL, 32566 Lace up your sneakers and join us on Saturday, March 15th at 8 am on Navarre Beach for a morning filled with fun and excitement. Participants will start at the south end of the Navarre Beach Boat Parking Lot and make their way down Gulf boulevards multi-purpose trail. Don’t forget about the Pet Parade, which will take place simultaneously behind the serious runners. After completing the race, stick around for refreshments and prizes.

https://business.navarrechamber.com/

Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)

9:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/

Spring Pensacola Community Outdoor Flea Market ($2 entry at entrance. Kids 12 and under are free.)

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Community Maritime Park , 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501 Come on out to the Spring Pensacola Community Outdoor Flea Market Extravaganza and MORE! 100% of Net Proceeds goes to Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Food trucks will also be on site.

https://apexshowsandevents.com/3%2F15-springflea-market

Family Fun Fest

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Cross Faith Church, 5701 US29 Molino, FL, 32577 Family Fun Festival is a day of food, fun, shopping and games for the family. https://www.cpg-events.com/

Pensacola Little Theatre presents The Play That Goes Wrong

7:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 The Play That Goes Wrong is a hilarious comedy that follows the antics of the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society as they attempt to stage a murder mystery play titled “The Murder at Haversham Manor.” However, everything that can go wrong goes wrong, leading to hilarious chaos on stage.

www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ the-play-that-goes-wrong

Big Bounce America

Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 36526 The world’s biggest touring inflatable theme park! Currently touring the US delivering super-sized fun!

https://thebigbounceamerica.com/event/pensacola/

Sunday March 16

Pensacola Opera Presents Pagliacci

2:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502https://pensacolaopera.com/ events/pagliacci/

Pensacola Little Theatre presents The Play That Goes Wrong

2:30 PM Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 The Play That Goes Wrong is a hilarious comedy that follows the antics of the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society as they attempt to stage a murder mystery play titled “The Murder at Haversham Manor.” However, everything that can go wrong goes wrong, leading to hilarious chaos on stage.

www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/shows-and-events/ the-play-that-goes-wrong

Pensacola Opera- Pagliacci

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Big Bounce America

Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, 6655 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL, 36526 The world’s biggest touring inflatable theme park! Currently touring the US delivering super-sized fun!

https://thebigbounceamerica.com/event/pensacola/

Monday March 17

Survival Skills Camp

8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Pensacola, FL Learn fire and shelter building skills, try out some camp cooking recipes, learn species identification and enjoy hikes at new locations each day in and around Pensacola. March 17-21

https://webtrac.cityofpensacola.com/wbwsc/webtrac. wsc/SPLASH.html

Celtic Angels Ireland

7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 An evening of Craic (fun) Ceol (music) and Traidisiún (tradition) Get swept away in the enchanting harmonies of the Celtic Angels as they present an impassioned homage to their beloved Emerald Isle.

www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Wednesday March 19

Broadway in Pensacola - Hadestown

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Welcome to HADESTOWN, where a song can change your fate. Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards® including Best Musical and the 2020 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Theater Album, this acclaimed new show from celebrated singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and innovative director Rachel Chavkin (Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812) is a love story for today... and always. www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Thursday March 20

Broadway in Pensacola - Hadestown

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Welcome to HADESTOWN, where a song can change your fate. Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards® including Best Musical and the 2020 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Theater Album, this acclaimed new show from celebrated singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and innovative director Rachel Chavkin (Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812) is a love story for today... and always.

www.pensacolasaenger.com/

FamilyCalendar

Friday March 21

Grandma Jenkins StoryTyme

11:00 AM Pensacola Childrens Museum, 330 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Grandma Jenkins is ready to share her favorite stories once again! StoryTyme is at 11:00 a.m. on select Fridays. Free program in the Party Central Room. March 21: The Wolf and the 7 Kids https://historicpensacola.org/plan-your-visit/museums-properties/pensacola-childrens-museum/

Saturday March 22

Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)

9:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/

An Evening Under the Stars (Free event with regular park entry fees)

5:45 PM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park along with the Escambia Amateur Astronomer Association invites you to spend an evening gazing at the skies. Clear skies permitting, telescopes and binoculars will be set up to capture views of the moon, planets and other celestial objects. All participants must enter the park prior to sunset.

www.floridastateparks.org/

Jazz Pensacola Student Jazz Competition

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM, UWF Main Stage Theatre, Pensacola, FL, 32514 Inviting all high school & college instrumentalist and jazz vocalists. Winning performances win cash awards, applications online. www.jazzpensacola.com

Back - N - Black: The Ultimate AC/DC Experience

8:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Back-N-Black delivers the goods with a set list spanning 4 decades of AC/DC’s finest! www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Wine on the Water Blue Wahoos Stadium, 351 W Cedar St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Experience an unforgettable afternoon at the Grand Tasting, the main event, set against the stunning backdrop of Pensacola Bay. Savor an array of exquisite wines and craft beers perfectly paired with culinary masterpieces by Pensacola’s finest chefs. While you sip and indulge, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere featuring live entertainment, a Croquet and Rosé Tournament down on the field, and breathtaking views of the sailing teams racing across the bay. https://www.milb.com/pensacola/tickets/specialevents

Monday March 24

Studio400 Trail to Oregon Auditions

Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Auditions - March 24-25: Studio400 Trail to Oregon! (onstage May 2-11, 2025) https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/auditions

Tuesday March 25

Brown Bag Opera (Free)

12:00 PM Pensacola Opera Center, 75 S. Tarragona St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Brown Bag Opera is Pensacola Opera’s lunchtime recital series! Bring your lunch to the Opera Center and enjoy a free, laid-back

concert featuring the 2024-25 Jan Miller Studio Artists performing favorite aria and musical theatre pieces. Brown Bag is the perfect way to add a little music in your afternoon. www.pensacolaopera.com

Studio400 Trail to Oregon Auditions

Pensacola Little Theatre, 400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Auditions - March 24-25: Studio400 Trail to Oregon! (onstage May 2-11, 2025) https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/auditions

Wednesday March 26

Get the Led Out

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Get The Led Out is a group of professional musicians who are passionate about their love of the music of Led Zeppelin. It’s been their mission to bring the studio recordings of “The Mighty Zep” to life on the big concert stage. www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Thursday March 27

PenArts presents They Promised her the Moon 7:30 PM The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N DeVilliers St Pensacola, FL, 32501 They Promised her the Moon is an inspiring, yet infuriating, tale of one woman’s powerful sense of purpose and her efforts that eventually opened the door for women to become astronauts nearly two decades later. https://penarts.org/

Friday March 28

Disney On Ice - Find Your Hero

7:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Get ready to discover the hero inside us all when Disney On Ice returns to Florida with a magical adventure for the whole family! www.pensacolabaycenter.com

PenArts presents They Promised her the Moon 7:30 PM The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N DeVilliers St Pensacola, FL, 32501 They Promised her the Moon is an inspiring, yet infuriating, tale of one woman’s powerful sense of purpose and her efforts that eventually opened the door for women to become astronauts nearly two decades later. https://penarts.org/

Saturday March 29

Bayou HIlls Run 2025

7:00 AM Bayview Park and the East Hill Neighborhood, 2000 E Lloyd St Pensacola, FL, 32503 The Bayou Hills Run is one of Pensacola’s oldest running events and is partnered with the City of Pensacola to make it the Official Pensacola 5K and 10K City of Pensacola Championships. www.pensacolasports.org/bayouhillsrun/

Bed Race 2025

8:00 AM Fountain Park, Pensacola, FL Support the mission of Family Promise in its firstever Bed Race to End Childhood Homelessness! This unique race with beds-on-wheels is a fun filled community event that highlights the work we do and what families without housing go through each week. The Bed Race drives our ability to mobilize community resources to provide compassionate care, shelter, meals, and case management to homeless children & their families. Teams of 5 people, 4 racers and 1 rider (ages 12+), will construct a bed on wheels to race down a track competing for fastest time. https://www.fpesc.org/bedrace2025

Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)

9:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/

Books by the Bay Festival

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Museum Plaza, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Festival for book enthusiasts of all ages. Join us for a day brimming with activities that celebrate the magic of storytelling and the written word. https://www.booksbythebay.info/

Blackwater Bash

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Jernigan’s Landing, 5165 Willing St. Milton, FL, 32570 We will have food trucks, ice cream, bounce houses, games, crafts, and more. This event will take place from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

Strauss & Schubert Dress Rehearsal ($10)

1:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for a working dress rehearsal of this program. General admission tickets are $10 https://pensacolasymphony.com/

WSRE Wine and Food Classic

7:00 PM WSRE Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio, 1000 College Boulevard Pensacola, FL, 32504 The WSRE Wine and Food Classic is an annual celebration of regional flavors showcasing local chefs and cuisine. This year, we’re letting the good times roll by transforming the WSRE Amos Studio into a vibrant French Quarter street scene spiced with Creole seasoning and Crescent City sounds! www.wsre.org/events/wfc/

Strauss & Schubert

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola native Titus Underwood returns home to perform Richard Strauss’ Oboe Concerto. The program also includes Strauss’ Serenade for Winds and Schubert’s Ninth Symphony, “The Great” https://pensacolasymphony.com/

Lady Legends of Country: A Tribute to the Music of Tammy, Loretta, Patsy, and Dolly 7:30 PM OWA Theatre, Foley, AL, 36535 Join us as the Lady Legends of Country: A Tribute to the Music of Tammy, Loretta, Patsy & Dolly returns to OWA Theater on March 29th https://visitowa.com/lady-legends/

PenArts presents They Promised her the Moon

7:30 PM The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N DeVilliers St Pensacola, FL, 32501 They Promised her the Moon is an inspiring, yet infuriating, tale of one woman’s powerful sense of purpose and her efforts that eventually opened the door for women to become astronauts nearly two decades later. https://penarts.org/

Disney On Ice - Find Your Hero Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Get ready to discover the hero inside us all when Disney On Ice returns to Florida with a magical adventure for the whole family! 11am, 3pm, 7pm www.pensacolabaycenter.com

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Centennial Celebration

St. Sylvester’s Catholic Church, 6464 Gulf Breeze Pkwy Gulf Breeze, FL, 32563 The elegant formal centennial ball is a grand event that marks a significant milestone in a hundred years of Navarre history. https://navarre100.com/

Sunday March 30

Disney On IceFind Your Hero

2:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Get ready to discover the hero inside us all when Disney On Ice returns to Florida with a magical adventure for the whole family! www.pensacolabaycenter.com

PenArts presents They Promised her the Moon 2:30 PM The Gordon Community Art Center, 306 N DeVilliers St Pensacola, FL, 32501 They Promised her the Moon is an inspiring, yet infuriating, tale of one woman’s powerful sense of purpose and her efforts that eventually opened the door for women to become astronauts nearly two decades later. https://penarts.org/

World Ballet Company: The Great Gatsby 6:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Zarzaur Law Maritime De Luna Youth Duathlon Community Maritime Park , 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL, 32501 The event features a full duathlon experience for children from 6 to 15 years old while friends and family cheer them on. With a fully supported event on a closed course, safety and encouragement from volunteers complement the excitement of children becoming multisport athletes. www.tgcyouthmultisport.org/duathlon.html

Monday March 31

Duo Beaux Arts Concert

7:00 PM Ashmore Auditorium, Pensacola, FL, 32504 International competition winning ensemble Duo Beaux Arts was formed in 2008 by world renowned husband and wife concert pianists and recording artists Catherine Lan and Tao Lin. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/

Tuesday April 1

Bands On The Beach

7:00 PM Gulfside Pavilion - Pensacola Beach, Pensacola, FL, 32561 Located in the beautiful Gulfside Pavilion overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the series features regional artists performing a wide variety of music. Join us every summer for hot music, smooth grooves and a whole lot of good times. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to the pavilion area. No pets are allowed and glass is prohibited. Bands on the Beach is at 7 p.m. and begins the first Tuesday in April and ends the last Tuesday in October. www.visitpensacolabeach.com/whats-happeningbands-on-beach

Thursday April 3

Covenant Care’s 19th Annual Art of Fashion Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Your ticket unlocks an unforgettable experience: exclusive entry to the pre-party and after-party, a fashion show, two drink vouchers, and delicious hors d’oeuvres.

https://choosecovenant.org/art-of-fashion-2025/

Friday April 4

Spring Festival of Flowers

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 5988 Highway 90 Milton, FL, 32583 This festival features plant nurseries, UF student club plant sale, arts & crafts, great food, and educational opportunities. https://wfrec.ifas.ufl.edu

Fork Cancer Pensacola

6:00 PM Supposey Warehouse and Gardens, 101 S F St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Fork Cancer Pensacola is an annual fundraising event dedicated to supporting the American Cancer Society’s mission to end cancer through research, education, advocacy, and patient services. The event showcases Pensacola’s vibrant culinary and entertainment scene, bringing together local restaurants, beverage partners, and live entertainment for an evening of community engagement and philanthropy. https://forkcancerpensacola.acsgala.org/

Saturday April 5

Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)

9:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/

Spring Festival of Flowers

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 5988 Highway 90 Milton, FL, 32583 This festival features plant nurseries, UF student club plant sale, arts & crafts, great food, and educational opportunities. https://wfrec.ifas.ufl.edu

Community Craft & Vendor Fair

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Innerarity Point Park, 5828 Cruzat Road Pensacola, FL, 32507 Swing into spring as you wander through and explore locally sourced crafts and gifts guaranteed to shake off those winter blues. https://business.visitperdido.com/

Children’s Treasure Hunt

11:00 AM Downtown Pensacola , Pensacola, FL, 32502 This FREE event will include fun for the whole family! Prizes, games for children and families, face painting, snow cones, interactive museum scavenger hunt, free lunch and visits from various community organizations. www.fiestapensacola.org/other-events

JazzFest 2025

11:00 AM - 5:00

PM, Historic Seville Park, Pensacola, FL, 32502 The Pensacola JazzFest is an annual two-day music festival presented by Jazz Pensacola. This free music festival includes local school bands, regional acts, and national headliners. In addition to a great music lineup, food by local vendors, wine/beer, soft drinks, arts and crafts and jazz merchandise are available. www.jazzpensacola.com

Sunday April 6

Spring Festival of Flowers

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 5988 Highway 90 Milton, FL, 32583 This festival features plant nurseries, UF student club plant sale, arts & crafts, great food, and educational opportunities. https://wfrec.ifas.ufl.edu

JazzFest 2025

11:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Historic Seville Park, Pensacola, FL, 32502 The Pensacola JazzFest is an annual two-day music festival presented by Jazz Pensacola. This free music festival includes local school bands, regional acts, and national headliners. In addition to a great music lineup, food by local vendors, wine/beer, soft drinks, arts and crafts and jazz merchandise are available www.jazzpensacola.com

Thursday April 10

Connecting the Pieces Gala

5:30 PM Sanders Beach Community Center, 913 S I St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Since 2004, the Connecting the Pieces Gala has been one of the major sources of revenue for Autism Pensacola, thanks to the generosity of sponsors, guests, and donors, It empowered Autism Pensacola to transform the organization from an all-volunteer group of parents, families, and advocates of children with autism to the professionally-run nonprofit it is today.

https://autismpensacola.org/gala/

Friday April 11

2025 Cinemas in the Sand (Free) Gulfside Pavilion on Casino Beach, Pensacola, FL Pack up your beach chairs and a blanket, and dig your toes in the sugar-white sand while watching classic family movies on Pensacola Beach. The 2025 Cinemas in the Sand movie nights return in March through October on the following Friday nights from the Gulfside Pavilion on Casino Beach. Each movie will begin at sunset

https://visitpensacolabeach.com/cinemas-in-the-sand/

Saturday April 12

DeLuna’s Open Water Swim

8:00 AM Pensacola Beach behind Flounder’s, Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us on beautiful Pensacola Beach for the annual DeLuna’s Open Water Swim! Pick the .6, 1.2, or 2.4 miles swim to challenge your skill and speed. Swim in clean protected waters in the Santa Rosa Sound.

https://www.pensacolasports.org/delunasswim/

Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)

9:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/

Woofstock

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 1922 Highway 87 Navarre, FL, 32566 This year, we’re bringing you another pawsitively amazing celebration packed with fun activities, live music, and all things dogs!

https://business.navarrechamber.com/events/details/ woofstock-2025-29088

Whale Festival Celebrates Gulf Coast Marine Life

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Gulfside Pavilion, 20 Casino Beach Boardwalk Pensacola, FL The Gulf Coast Whale Festival brings environmental education and fun to Pensacola Beach on Saturday April 12. Educational exhibits and activities tell the story of Gulf whales and local marine life, and a puppet parade led by Birds of a Feather showcases the ecology of the Gulf. Sweet sounds will flow from the Casino Beach Pavilion with

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live music by Pensacola singer-songwriters, and the premier performance of Ode to the Rice’s Whale, written by Pensacola performer Bob Teague. https://healthygulf.org/get-involved/gulf-coast-whalefestival-2025/

Celtic Music Fest ($20)

12:00 PM Pensacola Fairgrounds Expo Hall, Pensacola, FL Celtic Music Fest http://gcrf.us/

Brantley Gilbert

7:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Get ready for an epic night of country music hits and unforgettable performance! www.pensacolabaycenter.com

Sunday April 13

Fred Levin Way Fest

11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Historic Downtown Pensacola, 300 S. Palafox St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Food, Games, Music, Art, Prizes, and, most importantly, 60+ nonprofit organizations distributing information on the services they offer to families in need along with gifting essential items, such as backpacks, blankets, books, diapers, first aid kits, hygiene kits, pet food, school supplies, soap, socks, thermometers, toilet paper, toothbrushes, toothpaste, towels, and underwear. www.visitpensacola.com/events/fred-levin-fest/

Friday April 18

Grandma Jenkins StoryTyme

11:00 AM Pensacola Childrens Museum, 330 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Grandma Jenkins is ready to share her favorite stories once again! StoryTyme is at 11:00 a.m. on select Fridays. Free program in the Party Central Room. April 18: The Little Red Hen https://historicpensacola.org/plan-your-visit/museums-properties/pensacola-childrens-museum/

Saturday April 19

White Tie Rock Ensemble: 80s Dance Party

8:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E Gregory St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Bust out the old gear, tease that hair and come dance the night away as we take you back in time with an 80s musical extravaganza! www.pensacolabaycenter.com

Egga-Wahooza

10:00 AM Community Maritime Park, 301 W Main St Pensacola, FL Marcus Pointe Baptist Church, The Pensacola Blue Wahoos, and Cat Country 98.7 presents the 2025 Egga-Wahooza Easter Egg Hunt! Special Needs Hunt & 0 - 4 Year Olds at 10:00 AM, K5 - 5th Grade at 11:00 AM

Sunday April 20

Saturday April 26

Be My Neighbor Day

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, WSRE Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio Pensacola State College, 1000 College Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504

A free community event promoting early education, health and safety, and the neighborly values of Mister Rogers. Each year, local families and community organizations come together for the event, and children delight in exploring educational activities. www.wsre.org/events/be-my-neighbor-day

Every Monday

Baby Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes. This program is suggested for babies ages 0 to 2 years and their caregivers. 850-436-5060 www.mywfpl.com

Every Tuesday

Baby Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Tryon Library, 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes. This program is suggested for babies ages 0 to 2 years and their caregivers. 850-471-6980 www.mywfpl.com

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Southwest Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-453-7780 www.mywfpl.com

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Bellview Library, 6425 Mobile Highway Pensacola, FL, 32526 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-471-6360 www.mywfpl.com

Every Wednesday

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-436-5060 www.mywfpl.com

Every Thursday

Family Story Time at Your Library

Easter At The Zoo 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Gulf Breeze Zoo, 5701 Gulf Breeze Parkway Gulf Breeze, FL, 32563 Hop on over to Gulf Breeze Zoo for an egg-citing time. Enjoy children’s activities, popular Easter Egg hunts and a visit by the Easter Bunny www.gbzoo.com

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Westside Library, 1301 W. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-595-1047 www.mywfpl.com

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Tryon Library, 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested

for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-471-6980 www.mywfpl.com

Every third Friday

Gallery Night

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Pensacola, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Gallery Night is an all-ages community arts and culture event which happens on the third Friday of each month from 5-9 p.m. www.gallerynightpensacola.org

Every Saturday

Palafox Market

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 100 N Palafox Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Shop for farm-fresh produce, plants, baked goods and more at the event that’s consistently voted “Best Farmers Market” and “Best Free Thing to Do.” www.palafoxmarket.com

Every first Saturday

West Florida Genealogical Society Meeting (Free) 10:30:00 AM - 12:00:00 PM, Downtown Pensacola Library , 239 N Spring Street Pensacola , FL, 32502 WFGS is for anyone interested in genealogy and family history. A brief meeting followed by presentation. info@wfgs.org www.wfgs.org

Every first and third Saturday

Hwy 87 Market

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Sand Dollar Plaza, 1900 Hwy 87 Navarre, FL, 32566 Enjoy a wide variety of booths, offering food items, art, decor, and so much more. 850-368-9500 facebook.com/sanddollarsaturdays

Every other Saturday

Art Academy for Autism

1:30 PM Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 South Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for children and young adults on the autism spectrum. Ages 5-9-Alternating Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Ages 10-15-Alternating Saturdays from 1:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. www.pensacolamuseum.org

Last Saturday of the month

Trash-Bash

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Sand Crab Pavilion, Navarre, FL, 32566 The Trash-Bash is a citizen-science program for community members of all ages held the last Saturday of every month from 8:00-10:00 am. Sign in at the Sand Crab Pavilion (look for the “Giving Sea Turtles More Tomorrows” banner). There will be a limited supply of gloves, buckets and pickers-you are welcome to bring your own! www.navarrebeachseaturtles.org

Various

Dates-April 2025

Ice Flyers Games

Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Championship hockey team that prioritizes consistently delivering the highest level of entertainment to our fans and support to our community. Visit our website for more information. www.iceflyers.com

Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

Why A Parent’s Steady Presence Matters

I recently tuned into Dr. Lisa Damour’s podcast, and if you’re not familiar with her, I highly recommend checking her out! You can find her on Instagram or listen to her podcast, “Ask Lisa.” As a renowned psychologist specializing in parenting, she consistently offers valuable insights and support for parents like us.

In this episode, Dr. Damour emphasized the critical role of a parent’s steady presence in a child’s life. I believe this is one of the most significant aspects of effective parenting. Life can be incredibly destabilizing, especially for young teens who are navigating various challenges. Add in the complexities of social media, and things can quickly become overwhelming.

whereabouts every moment. A steady presence can be as simple as having calm, focused conversations about your child’s day. Even a brief, two-minute chat can reassure them that you are actively engaged in their life.

Moreover, it’s important to create an environment where open discussions

In my years of working with teenagers and parents, I’ve noticed a trend: while kids will inevitably make mistakes— after all, they are still learning—those who have involved parents typically recover more quickly from missteps. They tend to face life’s challenges with greater resilience, knowing their parents are there to support them.

When I refer to “steady presence,” I don’t mean an unending barrage of questions, hours spent scrutinizing their devices, or the need to know their exact

about social media missteps can occur without fear of confrontation. Encourage your child to come to you when they want to vent and practice the art of listening without immediately jumping into problem-solving mode. I often advise parents to simply ask, “Do you want feedback?” after their teen expresses their feelings. Many times, the answer will be no; what they truly seek is the comfort of knowing they can share their thoughts and frustrations without judgment.

I’ll always remember a powerful story shared by a high school senior in front of a packed room of parents at a conference. She emphasized the importance of

fostering open communication with your children during difficult situations. She said, “You want your child to think, Oh no, I’ve messed up; I need to let Mom and Dad know. What you don’t want is for them to feel, Oh no, I messed up; I can’t tell Mom and Dad. I can never let them find out.” This level of connection is largely achieved through being a steady, supportive presence in your child’s life. Our kids are constantly online, and the digital landscape can be noisy and overwhelming. Online “friends” come and go, and the advice they receive about who to be and how to behave shifts daily. This chaos can add an extra layer of uncertainty to an already tumultuous time in their lives. Your steady presence serves as an anchor amidst this noise.

Often, at my conferences, I hear concerned parents asking if they are doing “enough” to protect their children. They want reassurance that their kids will be okay. I remind them that research shows children who have involved parents—those who engage in conversations and maintain a steady presence— navigate social media much better.

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate.

She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.