August 12, 2026

A Taste of Grand Central to Celebrate the Grand Central District's 100th Anniversary

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Grand Central District Association is inviting the community to raise a glass to a century of history at Taste of Grand Central: "Cheers to 100 Years," its inaugural fundraising gala commemorating the Grand Central District's 100th anniversary.

The event will take place on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Coastal Creative and will bring together local restaurants, businesses, residents, and supporters for an evening of exceptional food, community, and philanthropy.

Guests will sample signature small bites from some of Grand Central's favorite restaurants, including The Oyster Bar, Trophy Fish, Twisted Indian, The Irons Club, Cheeky's, Sip Shop Hooray, Hostess, Eat This Dessert First, Pulpo, Wild Child, LaLa, Floribbean, and more, along with a welcome drink provided by Sip Shop Hooray, Hostess, and Savior. The evening will also feature live and silent auctions, awards recognizing community leaders, and an opportunity to connect with the people and businesses that make the Grand Central District one of St.

Petersburg's most vibrant destinations.

As the Grand Central District celebrates its centennial, proceeds from the evening will directly support the Grand Central District Association's ongoing work to strengthen the local business community. The nonprofit organization produces beloved events such as Halloween on Central, networking programs, neighborhood beautification efforts, business advocacy, and initiatives that help keep the district thriving.

"This event is more than a fundraiser—it's a celebration of the businesses, neighbors, and supporters who have shaped Grand Central over the past 100 years," said Chris Arnold, Executive Director of the Grand Central District Association. "We're excited to launch what will become an annual tradition while raising funds to continue investing in the district's future."

Tickets are $100 per person and include a welcome drink and tastings from participating restaurants. Guests will also have the opportunity to bid on unique auction packages while supporting the nonprofit mission of the Grand Central District Association.

For tickets and more information, visit: https://www.grandcentraldistrict.org/gala-page-100-year/

The Grand Central District Association is also welcoming additional restaurant partners. Restaurants located within the district are invited to showcase their cuisine by donating approximately 200–300 tasting-size bites that highlight what makes their business unique. Participating restaurants will receive exposure to community leaders, local businesses, and hundreds of attendees while helping support the district's nonprofit mission.

Restaurants interested in participating are encouraged to contact the Grand Central District Association at admin@grandcentraldistrict.org.

Event Details

Taste of Grand Central: Cheers to 100 Years Thursday, September 17, 2026

6:00 p.m.

Coastal Creative 2201 1st Ave. S.

St. Petersburg, FL 33712

Tickets: $100 individual - limited selection of reserved tables available More information and tickets: https://www.grandcentraldistrict.org/gala-page-100-year/

About the Grand Central District Association

The Grand Central District Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the businesses, property owners, and community that make the Grand Central District one of St. Petersburg's most dynamic commercial corridors. Through advocacy, placemaking, marketing, networking, and signature community events, the Association works to promote economic vitality while celebrating the district's rich history and unique character.

Media Contact

Audrey Dingeman

Director of Communications Grand Central District Association admin@grandcentraldistrict.org

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