Calendar of Events

Our Events

Our annual events are more than just gatherings; they’re celebrations of unity, inclusivity, and the power of community. Designed to engage and embrace individuals with Down syndrome and special needs, these events are a testament to the beauty of diversity and the strength found in togetherness.

Whether you’re attending an event, making a donation, or volunteering your time, your support makes a difference. Together, we can build a brighter future for individuals with Down syndrome and special needs to create a world where everyone is valued, respected, and included. We invite you to join us at our next event and experience the joy of community firsthand.

Jan 13, 2026

6:30 PM

Parent Connect Brandon

Mellow Mushroom

More Info

Jan 16, 2026

7:00 PM

Parent Connect Tampa

Mandola’s

More Info

Jan 25, 2026

9:30 AM

-

11:00 AM

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Highland Recreation Complex

More Info

Feb 6, 2026

7:00 PM

-

9:00 PM

Temple Terrace Dance

Greater Tampa Showmen’s Association

More Info

Feb 16, 2026

6:30 PM

Parent Connect Brandon

IHop

More Info

Feb 20, 2026

7:00 PM

-

9:00 PM

Clearwater Dance

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater

More Info

Feb 22, 2026

8:15 AM

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Brandon

Glazer Children’s Museum

More Info

Feb 22, 2026

9:30 AM

-

11:00 AM

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Highland Recreation Complex

More Info

Mar 8, 2026

9:30 AM

-

11:00 AM

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Highland Recreation Complex

More Info

Mar 10, 2026

6:30 PM

Parent Connect Brandon

Portillos

More Info

Mar 20, 2026

7:00 PM

-

9:00 PM

Clearwater Dance

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater

More Info

Mar 21, 2026

4:00 PM

-

8:00 PM

World Down Syndrome Day

The Regent

More Info

Mar 22, 2026

10:00 AM

-

12:00 PM

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Brandon

The Whatley’s

More Info

Apr 3, 2026

6:30 PM

Parent Connect Brandon

Village Inn

More Info

Apr 19, 2026

9:30 AM

-

11:00 AM

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Highland Recreation Complex

More Info

Apr 19, 2026

2:00 PM

-

5:00 PM

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Easter Egg Hunt & Lunch

The Barthle’s

More Info

Apr 24, 2026

7:00 PM

-

9:00 PM

Clearwater Dance

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater

More Info

May 5, 2026

6:30 PM

Parent Connect Brandon

Three Bulls Tavern

More Info

May 15, 2026

7:00 PM

-

9:00 PM

Clearwater Dance

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater

More Info

May 31, 2026

10:00 AM

-

12:00 PM

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Brandon

The Whatley’s

More Info

Jun 7, 2026

10:00 AM

-

12:00 PM

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Highland Recreation Complex

More Info

Jun 19, 2026

6:30 PM

Parent Connect Brandon

Cracker Barrel

More Info

Jul 17, 2026

7:00 PM

-

9:00 PM

Clearwater Dance

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater

More Info

Jul 28, 2026

6:30 PM

Parent Connect Brandon

Mellow Mushroom

More Info

Aug 2, 2026

10:00 AM

-

12:00 PM

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Highland Recreation Complex

More Info

Aug 21, 2026

7:00 PM

-

9:00 PM

Clearwater Dance

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater

More Info

Aug 30, 2026

2:00 PM

-

5:00 PM

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Kidchella

The Barthle’s

More Info

Sep 13, 2026

10:00 AM

-

12:00 PM

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Highland Recreation Complex

More Info

Sep 18, 2026

7:00 PM

-

9:00 PM

Clearwater Dance

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater

More Info

Sep 27, 2026

10:00 AM

-

12:00 PM

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Brandon

The Whatley’s

More Info

Oct 16, 2026

7:00 PM

-

9:00 PM

Clearwater Dance

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater

More Info

Nov 22, 2026

10:00 AM

-

12:00 PM

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Brandon

The Whatley’s

More Info

Dec 4, 2026

7:00 PM

-

9:00 PM

Clearwater Dance

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater

More Info
CLOSE

Parent Connect Brandon

Jan 13, 2026
6:30 PM
Mellow Mushroom
10959 Causeway Blvd
Brandon, 33511

Do you live in the Riverview, Brandon or Valrico area and want to connect with other FRIENDS parents? Come connect, chat and laugh together in a relaxed, kid-free environment.
We look forward to meeting/seeing you all!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Parent Connect Tampa

Jan 16, 2026
7:00 PM
Mandola’s
14703 N. Dale Mabry Hwy
Tampa, 33618

Do you live in the Tampa area and want to connect with other FRIENDS parents? Come connect, chat and laugh together in a relaxed, kid-free environment.
We look forward to meeting/seeing you all!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Jan 25, 2026
9:30 AM
-
11:00 AM
Highland Recreation Complex
400 Highland Ave
Largo, 33770

Located at Highland Rec, Largo’s indoor playground is a three-story, interactive honeycomb of excitement for kids of all ages.
Children can climb the towering structure, zoom down the winding corkscrew slide, and jump right back in for endless fun!

Highland Recreation Complex

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Temple Terrace Dance

Feb 6, 2026
7:00 PM
-
9:00 PM
Greater Tampa Showmen’s Association
12350 N 56th St
Temple Terrace, 33617

Join us for a free adult special needs dance event where adults can groove to the music and enjoy delicious pizza, refreshing drinks, delectable desserts, and plenty of fun activities. Casual attire is encouraged for everyone attending. We’re also seeking adult and student volunteers to help make this event a success! Students who volunteer can earn valuable service hours towards scholarships and other recognition. Come join us for a night of inclusivity, community, and celebration!
This is a Valentine’s Day themed dance!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Parent Connect Brandon

Feb 16, 2026
6:30 PM
IHop
11350 Bloomingdale Ave
Riverview, 33578

Do you live in the Riverview, Brandon or Valrico area and want to connect with other FRIENDS parents? Come connect, chat and laugh together in a relaxed, kid-free environment.
We look forward to meeting/seeing you all!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Clearwater Dance

Feb 20, 2026
7:00 PM
-
9:00 PM
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater
2582 Gulf to Bay
Clearwater, 33765

FRIENDS free adult special needs dance. Pizza, drinks, dessert & fun provided.
Dress is casual
Adult & student volunteers needed!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Brandon

Feb 22, 2026
8:15 AM
Glazer Children’s Museum
110 W Gasparilla Plaza
Tampa, 33602

Ages 7 and under are invited to join us for a fun-filled sensory friendly day at the children’s museum!
Please be sure to check in with Tammy Whatley at 8:15 AM.
Sensory friendly hours are 8am-10am.

http://www.glazermuseum.org/

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Feb 22, 2026
9:30 AM
-
11:00 AM
Highland Recreation Complex
400 Highland Ave
Largo, 33770

Located at Highland Rec, Largo’s indoor playground is a three-story, interactive honeycomb of excitement for kids of all ages.
Children can climb the towering structure, zoom down the winding corkscrew slide, and jump right back in for endless fun!

Highland Recreation Complex

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Mar 8, 2026
9:30 AM
-
11:00 AM
Highland Recreation Complex
400 Highland Ave
Largo, 33770

Located at Highland Rec, Largo’s indoor playground is a three-story, interactive honeycomb of excitement for kids of all ages.
Children can climb the towering structure, zoom down the winding corkscrew slide, and jump right back in for endless fun!

Highland Recreation Complex

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Parent Connect Brandon

Mar 10, 2026
6:30 PM
Portillos
1748 W Brandon Blvd
Brandon, 33511

Do you live in the Riverview, Brandon or Valrico area and want to connect with other FRIENDS parents? Come connect, chat and laugh together in a relaxed, kid-free environment.
We look forward to meeting/seeing you all!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Clearwater Dance

Mar 20, 2026
7:00 PM
-
9:00 PM
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater
2583 Gulf to Bay
Clearwater, 33765

FRIENDS free adult special needs dance. Pizza, drinks, dessert & fun provided.
This is a Valentine’s Day themed dance!
Dress is casual
Adult & student volunteers needed!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

World Down Syndrome Day

Mar 21, 2026
4:00 PM
-
8:00 PM
The Regent
6437 Watson Rd
Riverview, 33578

Celebrate the Extra: World Down Syndrome Day Celebration Presented by Elevate Advocate
Join us for an unforgettable evening of celebration and fun in honor of World Down Syndrome Day, hosted by FRIENDS, DSATB, and GiGi’s Playhouse.

Click here for more information on how to become a sponsor and how to purchase tickets:
Support Celebrate the Extra: World Down Syndrome Day Celebration | PledgeIt for Charities

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Brandon

Mar 22, 2026
10:00 AM
-
12:00 PM
The Whatley’s
1103 Tuscanny St
Brandon, 33511

Our Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. program is designed to support children from birth to 5 years old who have special needs, along with their families.
Join us to connect with other parents in the same journey, sharing experiences and valuable parenting tips while the children participate in fun activities, creating lasting bonds with each other.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Parent Connect Brandon

Apr 3, 2026
6:30 PM
Village Inn
11019 Causeway Blvd
Brandon, 33511

Do you live in the Riverview, Brandon or Valrico area and want to connect with other FRIENDS parents? Come connect, chat and laugh together in a relaxed, kid-free environment.
We look forward to meeting/seeing you all!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Apr 19, 2026
9:30 AM
-
11:00 AM
Highland Recreation Complex
400 Highland Ave
Largo, 33770

Located at Highland Rec, Largo’s indoor playground is a three-story, interactive honeycomb of excitement for kids of all ages.
Children can climb the towering structure, zoom down the winding corkscrew slide, and jump right back in for endless fun!

Highland Recreation Complex

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Easter Egg Hunt & Lunch

Apr 19, 2026
2:00 PM
-
5:00 PM
The Barthle’s
2818 S Bryan Rd
Brandon, 33511

Hop on over for a fun-filled Easter celebration for children with special needs and their families! We will have food, games, egg decorating station, Easter egg hunt, and Easter bunny!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Clearwater Dance

Apr 24, 2026
7:00 PM
-
9:00 PM
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater
2584 Gulf to Bay
Clearwater, 33765

FRIENDS free adult special needs dance. Pizza, drinks, dessert & fun provided.
Dress is casual
Adult & student volunteers needed!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Parent Connect Brandon

May 5, 2026
6:30 PM
Three Bulls Tavern
4330 Bell Shoals Rd
Valrico, 33596

Do you live in the Riverview, Brandon or Valrico area and want to connect with other FRIENDS parents? Come connect, chat and laugh together in a relaxed, kid-free environment.
We look forward to meeting/seeing you all!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Clearwater Dance

May 15, 2026
7:00 PM
-
9:00 PM
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater
2585 Gulf to Bay
Clearwater, 33765

FRIENDS free adult special needs dance. Pizza, drinks, dessert & fun provided.
Dress is casual
Adult & student volunteers needed!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Brandon

May 31, 2026
10:00 AM
-
12:00 PM
The Whatley’s
1103 Tuscanny St
Brandon, 33511

Our Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. program is designed to support children from birth to 5 years old who have special needs, along with their families.
Join us to connect with other parents in the same journey, sharing experiences and valuable parenting tips while the children participate in fun activities, creating lasting bonds with each other.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Jun 7, 2026
10:00 AM
-
12:00 PM
Highland Recreation Complex
400 Highland Ave
Largo, 33770

The Highland Family Aquatic Center is a family-friendly mini-waterpark that provides a wide variety of fun play experiences for all ages.
Please bring bathing suits and sunscreen!

Highland Recreation Complex

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Parent Connect Brandon

Jun 19, 2026
6:30 PM
Cracker Barrel
1880 Brandon Blvd
Valrico, 33594

Do you live in the Riverview, Brandon or Valrico area and want to connect with other FRIENDS parents? Come connect, chat and laugh together in a relaxed, kid-free environment.
We look forward to meeting/seeing you all!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Clearwater Dance

Jul 17, 2026
7:00 PM
-
9:00 PM
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater
2586 Gulf to Bay
Clearwater, 33765

FRIENDS free adult special needs dance. Pizza, drinks, dessert & fun provided.
Dress is casual
Adult & student volunteers needed!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Parent Connect Brandon

Jul 28, 2026
6:30 PM
Mellow Mushroom
10959 Causeway Blvd
Brandon, 33511

Do you live in the Riverview, Brandon or Valrico area and want to connect with other FRIENDS parents? Come connect, chat and laugh together in a relaxed, kid-free environment.
We look forward to meeting/seeing you all!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Aug 2, 2026
10:00 AM
-
12:00 PM
Highland Recreation Complex
400 Highland Ave
Largo, 33770

The Highland Family Aquatic Center is a family-friendly mini-waterpark that provides a wide variety of fun play experiences for all ages.
Please bring bathing suits and sunscreen!

Highland Recreation Complex

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Clearwater Dance

Aug 21, 2026
7:00 PM
-
9:00 PM
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater
2587 Gulf to Bay
Clearwater, 33765

FRIENDS free adult special needs dance. Pizza, drinks, dessert & fun provided.
Dress is casual
Adult & student volunteers needed!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Kidchella

Aug 30, 2026
2:00 PM
-
5:00 PM
The Barthle’s
2819 S Bryan Rd
Brandon, 33511

🎉 KIDCHELLA: Back to School Bash!
Join us for Kidchella, a free and fun-filled back-to-school celebration for children with special needs (up to age 16) and their families!
🌟 Activities & Attractions Include:

  • Kona Ice Truck
  • Food & Beverages
  • Music & More!

🩱 Don’t forget to bring swimwear for water activities!

This inclusive event is all about community, joy, and making memories before the new school year begins!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Pinellas Play F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

Sep 13, 2026
10:00 AM
-
12:00 PM
Highland Recreation Complex
400 Highland Ave
Largo, 33770

The Highland Family Aquatic Center is a family-friendly mini-waterpark that provides a wide variety of fun play experiences for all ages.
Please bring bathing suits and sunscreen!

Highland Recreation Complex

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Clearwater Dance

Sep 18, 2026
7:00 PM
-
9:00 PM
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater
2588 Gulf to Bay
Clearwater, 33765

FRIENDS free adult special needs dance. Pizza, drinks, dessert & fun provided.
Dress is casual
Adult & student volunteers needed!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Brandon

Sep 27, 2026
10:00 AM
-
12:00 PM
The Whatley’s
1103 Tuscanny St
Brandon, 33511

Our Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. program is designed to support children from birth to 5 years old who have special needs, along with their families.
Join us to connect with other parents in the same journey, sharing experiences and valuable parenting tips while the children participate in fun activities, creating lasting bonds with each other.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Clearwater Dance

Oct 16, 2026
7:00 PM
-
9:00 PM
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater
2589 Gulf to Bay
Clearwater, 33765

FRIENDS free adult special needs dance. Pizza, drinks, dessert & fun provided.
This is a Halloween themed dance!
Dress is casual
Adult & student volunteers needed!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Brandon

Nov 22, 2026
10:00 AM
-
12:00 PM
The Whatley’s
1103 Tuscanny St
Brandon, 33511

Our Little F.R.I.E.N.D.S. program is designed to support children from birth to 5 years old who have special needs, along with their families.
Join us to connect with other parents in the same journey, sharing experiences and valuable parenting tips while the children participate in fun activities, creating lasting bonds with each other.

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

Clearwater Dance

Dec 4, 2026
7:00 PM
-
9:00 PM
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clearwater
2590 Gulf to Bay
Clearwater, 33765

FRIENDS free adult special needs dance. Pizza, drinks, dessert & fun provided.
This is a Christmas themed dance!
Dress is casual
Adult & student volunteers needed!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.
CLOSE

,
F.R.I.E.N.D.S. - West Florida is a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides information, education, year-round programs, and fun activities for our Down syndrome and special needs community in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.