Wire
A Taste of Grand Central – Cheers to 100 years
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:
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 ad***@******************ct.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:
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
ad***@******************ct.org
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