Looking for fun and adventure this weekend? Here are our major picks of events taking place in the Orlando and Tampa Bay areas:
Orlando area
Actors from The Walking Dead, The Flash, Arrow and other TV shows will meet fans, take pictures and sign autographs — all to help raise money for Pulse victims and families. The one-day special event combines two fan convention events, with all proceeds going to the OneOrlando Fund. When: 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17. Where: Orange County Convention Center. Cost: From $55.
Play games, sing karaoke, catch a few Pokemon, and, of course, enjoy a wide variety of food at this large food truck festival. Enjoy unlimited sangria, mimosas and wine for $20 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. When: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17. Where: Orlando Festival Park, 2911 E. Robinson St. More information: 407-907-8162.
The annual beauty, fashion, home decor, cooking and entertaining extravaganza is back. This year's celebrity guests include actor Keegan Allen of Pretty Little Liars; Whitney Way Thore, star of TLC’s My Big Fat Fabulous Life; and dessert blogger Juliana Evans. When: Through Sunday. Where: Orange County Convention Center. Cost: $12 for adults. More information: (704) 376-6594.
Tampa area
Run. Eat. Drink. Hit the ground running (or walking) for a 5K or 15K race in Cotanchobee Park in Tampa. Afterward, check out cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, editors of Cooking Light, fitness demonstrations, elite athlete appearances and more. When: Saturday, Sept. 17. Where: Channelside, Tampa. Cost: $55.
Head over to Safety Harbor for a day of craft beer, live bands, food vendors and a beautiful view of Tampa Bay. Bands include Shevonne and the Bad Boys, The New Rulers and the Black Honkeys. Admission proceeds beneift Mattie Williams Neighborhood Family Center and the Kiwanis Club. When: 3-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17. Where: Waterfront Park, Safety Harbor. Cost: $5 per person.
A hundred authors, publishers and publications are expected for Tampa's largest annual book fair. Buy books written by area authors in every genre, connect with publishers, discuss the craft with fellow book lovers and listen to readings. When: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17. Where: WestShore Plaza, Tampa.