THINGS TO DO

A Very Gulfport Cinema Series, Wine & The Patch

Find links for these events — and many other things to do — online at thegabber.com/events.

Friday, July 16

Florida Cinema Series Join the Gulfport Historical Society for the second cinema event in the Florida Film Summer Series about a gay cabaret owner and his drag queen companion. “The Birdcage” is a classic Miami film centered around Robin Williams and Nathan Lane pretending to be a straight couple to appease conservative parental agendas. Bring your own chairs and settle down to enjoy this Floridian must-see in the great outdoors, no bird cages needed. Gulfport History Museum, 5301 28th Ave. S. 8-10 p.m.

Saturday, July 17

Volunteer at the Patch

Excuse the dust, and oh, the huge elephant sculptures. The Blueberry Patch, an artist retreat-turned-music venue, relies on volunteers every Saturday to maintain the outdoor space. Show up at 11:11 a.m. on the dot to truly abide by the Patch’s magic. The Blueberry Patch, 4923 20th Ave S. 11:11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Let’s Talk About It

Following the GHS Florida Film Summer Series, Matthew McGee, the Community Outreach Director at freeFall Theatre Company will discuss the movie and culture. Over mimosas and bloody marys, McGee will go into spunky detail about how the LGBTQ community and drag performers have changed since the film’s release in 1996 – and even more since the play hit the stage. This event helps raise funds to provide more great summer programming from the Gulfport Historical Society. Tickets $15 for members; $20, not-yet-members. Registration is required. Gulfport History Museum, 5301 28th Ave. S. 10 a.m.

Wine and Jam

Let the tasting begin. Funky Flamingo is opening its doors to curious dippers who want to try the deli’s jams and salsas. Check out Gulfport’s pinkest lunch spot before heading home with pantry conversation starters. Come thirsty, there’s complimentary wine. Funky Flamingo, 1418 58th St. 4 p.m.

Sunday, July 18

Sundays Are for the Laura Shepherd Show

“Something’s gonna happen and it’s gonna be good.” Let that something be the Laura Shepherd Show, a small-town smörgåsbord of local artists, music makers and characters introduced every Sunday by your hippie host, Laura Shepherd. Watch live on Facebook or in a green garden live studio audience. See the Facebook link for more details. The Laura Shepherd Show, 5125 9th Ave. S. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Mind Your Mantra

Have you heard of Kirtan? Experience this soothing form of music made to relax and bring folks together. Creators like Samadhi and Lindy Romez will fill Central’s newest home for art with sublime chords, chants and spirit. Coastal Creative 2201 1st Ave. S. 6-9 p.m.

Monday, July 19

Gulfport Dems Unite

The Gulfport Democratic Club will meet in-person for the first time in months. The meeting will commence on sandy Gulfport Beach. Email info. gulfportdems@gmail.com for details. Gulfport Beach, Shore Boulevard between 54th and 58th St. S. 7-8 p.m.

Wednesday, July 21

Swing, Swing

Slip on your dancing shoes, Gulfport. The Gulfport Casino Ballroom is back with swing classes, an open dance floor and a cash bar. The prohibition is over, it’s time to groove. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. Gulfport Casino, 5500 Shore Blvd. S. 7-11 p.m.

Thursday, July 22

Thursday Donations with the Lions Club

Every fourth Thursday, the Gulfport Lions Club partners with Feeding Tampa Bay in an effort to bring good food to the community. The outdoor donation drive is accepting fresh veggies and produce as well as toiletries. Lions Club Gulfport, 4630 Tifton Dr. S. 4:30-6 p.m.