Well, they’re just about gone, and that means the place is all ours again.
Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte roads have less traffic, Gulf restaurants aren’t as packed and it’s a lot easier to get a drink at your favorite pub. With another tourist season coming to an end, things are going to be a lot slower and quieter. But it doesn’t have to be. And local pub, tavern, club, restaurant and venue owners plan to let you know about it. Take the “FHM Florida Casting Event,” at downtown Sarasota’s Esca and Horsefeathers, featuring the state’s most beautiful women. If you like muscle, then check out the grand opening of Punta Gorda’s Muscle Car City car show. Cars aren’t your thing Then head over to any of the venues hosting the second annual Forks & Corks, which is every wine enthusiast’s dream. Here are some other local events sure to get you out and about town: nEach Thursday, including tonight, 15 South Ristorante’s Straight Up Martini Bar hosts “Addiction Thursday,” featuring models, dancers, high-energy music and more starting at 8:30 p.m. at 15 S. Boulevard of Presidents, St. Armands Circle. No cover. 388-1555 15southristorante.com.
nThe second annual Forks & Corks has a weekend of world-class food, wine, seminars, food demos, charity auction, live entertainment and much more from Thursday to Sunday at various area locations, including the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and Ringling Museum of Art. Ticket prices vary. 729-9177 freshoriginals/forksandcorks.