A new wellness-focused event is launching in Palmetto, and it’s designed to bring the community together in a laid-back, energizing way. Movement Market, hosted by Auriactive, will debut on Saturday, August 2 at 8 a.m. at The Yard at Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa.

This outdoor event combines movement, health-conscious food, and small business vendors into one morning of feel-good connection. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome to attend.

Start the Morning with Movement

The Movement Market will offer group fitness classes taught by experienced local instructors, with options like yoga and Pure Barre.

The event itself is free, and class passes are just $8. Early registration is recommended since spots are limited. As a bonus, the first 25 people to register for either the yoga or Pure Barre session will receive a free Auriactive Pilates Ball to take home.

The classes are a good fit for all levels, so you can jump in even if it’s your first time, or mix things up if you’re already in a routine.

Healthy Food, Fresh Drinks, and Local Finds

After class, visitors can explore a collection of local vendors offering fresh juices, açai bowls, protein snacks, and other clean food options. The market also features a variety of wellness products and handmade goods from small businesses in the Bradenton and Palmetto area.

Expect to find thoughtfully curated items that support a balanced lifestyle; everything from natural skincare and herbal remedies to activewear and accessories made by local makers.

The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for browsing, grabbing a bite, and catching up with familiar faces. Stay for a few minutes or hang out all morning. It’s all at your pace.

Community Connection in an Outdoor Setting

The event takes place at The Yard, the Marriott’s open-air venue right next to the river. With shaded areas, open green space, and easy access to parking, it’s a comfortable spot to gather, move, and unwind.

Auriactive’s goal with Movement Market is to create something that’s more than a pop-up. They’re aiming for a space where people can build real connections through movement, conversation, and shared values around wellness and community.

Event Details at a Glance

Location: The Yard at Palmetto Marriott
Date: Saturday, August 2
Time: 8:00 a.m. start
Admission: Free
Fitness class passes: $8
Bonus: First 25 yoga or Pure Barre signups get a free Auriactive Pilates Ball

You can check out the class schedule, see featured vendors, and reserve your spot at auriactive.org/about.

Good Liquid Brewing started back in 2017 with their original location at Fountain’s Plaza on 14th Street West. This location closed a few years ago and made room for their expansion with full restaurant menus at Waterside in Lakewood Ranch, Downtown Bradenton, and Creekside Commons in Parrish. 

Their first goal was to brew some fantastic beers, and they achieved that, even winning the Gold Medal in the Experimental category of the Best Florida Beer Competition. Then they opened their first Brewery, Distillery, and Restaurant at Waterside in 2021. Now all 3 locations offer the same award-winning beers, craft cocktails, and food menu. 

I’m here to tell you about their food. Unlike many other breweries, Good Liquid didn’t leave food as an afterthought. They put it front and center by developing a menu that suits everyone, from those who just want to grab a sandwich to those who want to have a full restaurant experience. 

Their menu has some great appetizers that you can enjoy while sipping a beer or cocktail in a casual gathering with friends.  Items like the Cali Egg Rolls with avocado and cilantro in a crispy wonton, their very popular Not Your Mama’s Meatballs with a house blend of veal, pork, and beef, or the BBQ Pork Nachos with BBQ pulled pork and GLBC beer cheese. 

The nachos tray is my favorite app. I say tray because they’re served in a large pizza pan. And you don’t want to miss their Wings & Drums with flavors such as Buffalo, Nashville hot, and Garlic Parmesan.

I have to say that salad portions are large, if not huge, and of course delicious. The Napa Chicken Salad is my favorite so far. It comes with a mound of chicken salad made from roasted pulled chicken breast, grapes, toasted almonds, celery, cranberries, avocado, and tomato on a bed of lettuce and Greek dressing. 

Not to be outdone is the Santa Fe Salad with romaine, avocado, tomato, cheddar, fire-roasted corn, black beans, and crispy tortilla chips. The Caesar Salad is a good staple, too. 

Running down the menu, we find sandwiches and burgers. You can choose from delicious options like the Black + Blue Burger with applewood smoked bacon and bleu cheese, the Just a Cheeseburger with American cheese, or the Haymaker with applewood smoked bacon, onion straws, and guacamole. Other sandwiches include Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Grilled Buffalo Chicken, or the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich. 

Let’s get to the full meals now. One notable entree is the hearty Bolognese with Tuscan sauce made with veal, pork, and chuck. This large plate of spaghetti is simmered for 4 hours with tomatoes and served topped with sweet butter and parmesan cheese. 

Other offerings include the Sugar Reef Coconut Shrimp deep-fried with apricot sweet chili sauce, GLBC Blonde Ale battered cod for the Fish ‘n’ Chips plate, or the Beef Short Rib Hash with a GLBC beer-braised short rib. There are a few more that I’ll let you discover on your own. 

If all of that is not enough for you, go for the pizza. You’ll find classics like their Cheese Pizza or Pepperoni Pizza made with homemade pizza sauce, cheese blend, and basil. Or get adventurous with options like the Maui Wowie with BBQ sauce, Canadian bacon, and pineapple, Buffalo Chicken Pizza with buffalo sauce and diced chicken, or the All In, which is exactly that – a whole lot of cheese, pepperoni, hamburger, Canadian bacon, mushrooms, bacon, and red onion. 

No matter what you choose, you should definitely finish it off with their Bread Pudding with Berries or the Fudge Brownie Skillet with espresso chocolate glaze. 

One visit, and you’ll quickly see that this is not your usual brewery food. Good Liquid Brewing has put a lot of thought and effort into bringing a full restaurant experience to their establishments. The concept has obviously been well received, because they’re usually very busy. 

See what the fuss is all about by trying it for yourself. Reserve your table and be sure to tell them you heard about it on Discover Bradenton!

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Have a Favorite Spot We Should Try Next?

We love shining a light on great local eats across Manatee County. If you know a restaurant that deserves a shoutout, we want to hear about it! Pitch your idea here and help us discover the next hidden gem.

About the Author

Jean Totti has spent a lifetime traveling and eating to satisfy his curiosity and learn about food. After many years of an Ivy League career in Architecture, he went back to school in 2014 and completed another master’s degree, this time in Journalism and Food Writing at USF.

That also led him to open his own restaurant which he ran for a number of years until he retired. Today he takes his writing and passion for food to several publications around the Tampa Bay Area and North Carolina. 

There’s a new hangout in downtown Bradenton, and it’s already turning heads—thanks to the bright lights, flipper sounds, and smell of grilled Cuban sandwiches.

Ballerz Pinball Café officially opened its doors in early July at 412 12th Street West, just a few blocks from Old Main Street. Inside, visitors are welcomed by a colorful mix of classic and modern pinball machines, arcade games, and a laid-back café vibe that’s equal parts retro and social.

A Local Twist on the Classic Arcade

At its heart, Ballerz is all about pinball. The café is home to more than a dozen fully restored pinball machines, featuring titles like Deadpool, Guardians of the Galaxy, Star Wars, and a lot more. The machines are rotated regularly and maintained by people who clearly care about the details.

Instead of relying on quarters or tokens, players can grab a $10 wristband and enjoy unlimited play for the day. It’s a welcome shift for casual visitors and die-hard pinball fans alike. There’s also a growing leaderboard system in place, with plans for monthly tournaments and community events down the line.

Food, Drinks, and a Comfortable Vibe

Alongside the games, Ballerz serves up a solid food menu that includes gourmet hot dogs, Cuban sandwiches, nachos, and snacks. The café also offers beer, wine, and a selection of non-alcoholic drinks, making it easy to settle in and hang out with friends for a while.

The vibe is relaxed and welcoming. The space feels more like a cozy neighborhood spot than a loud arcade, and that’s intentional. It’s designed to be a place where people of all ages can spend time without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Built by Locals, For Locals

Owners Jon-Paul Taylor and Eddie Pantoja, both Bradenton locals, opened Ballerz with the goal of creating something fun and different downtown. So far, it’s working. The café has already gained a steady following, and early visitors have praised the friendly atmosphere and affordable pricing.

They’re also planning ahead—with ideas for hosting private parties, live-streamed pinball competitions, and other events that bring the community together around something a little different.

Ballerz Pinball Café is open daily. For hours, food options, and event updates, check out their website at ballerzpinballcafe.com.

If you haven’t stopped in yet, this is one local spot worth flipping out over.

If you’re lucky enough to meet Chris MacCormack, you’ll quickly realize she’s not the type to sit still. At 77, she’s running a private tutoring business, creating original artwork, and holding quarterly carport sales filled with hand-planted succulent arrangements. Her studio in West Bradenton is where it all comes together.

Helping Students Succeed

Chris has been tutoring for over two years through her business, My Tutor Nana, and her Google reviews say it all. She’s built a reputation for helping students master tough subjects, especially math and reading. Some are just trying to pass the school year. Others are prepping to skip ahead or qualify for competitive schools. Either way, her calm, patient approach works.

She offers personalized instruction tailored to the student’s pace, and many of them stick with her long term. Her studio is low-key, welcoming, and free of the stress you often find in traditional classroom settings.

Painting Made Simple and Fun

Chris has also been painting for 25 years, mostly using her own landscape, plant, and beach photos as inspiration. But lately, she’s been exploring a new approach. After discovering a Korean YouTube artist named Joony Art, she was impressed with how simple he made the painting process, even for beginners.

Now, she’s offering small-group or one-on-one painting sessions using either Joony’s 10-minute tutorials or your own photo as a guide. Sessions are held in her home studio and last two hours, long enough to walk away with a finished piece. All supplies are included, and students as young as ten can join.

• Private session: $50
• Bring a friend or family member: Discounts apply
• Class size: 1–3 students
• Mediums: Watercolor or acrylic
• Age minimum: 10+
• Schedule: To be arranged directly with Chris

From Canvas to Carport Sales

On top of teaching and painting, Chris creates beautiful succulent arrangements, which she sells during her seasonal carport sales. These events are casual and community-focused, usually drawing in neighbors, friends, and curious passersby. If you’re local and enjoy plant art, they’re worth keeping an eye out for.

Want to Learn More or Book a Session?
Check out her Discover Bradenton listing.
7506 17th Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34209

Chris might not be all over social media, but she’s building a legacy one student, one painting, and one succulent at a time.

There are some places where you walk in and you immediately feel welcome. That is the first impression you get at Rocco’s Italian Kitchen. 

The new owner and her team makes sure your meal is exactly as you want it and the time spent at their restaurant is one that allows you to enjoy it in their relaxed atmosphere. A former sports bar location is now an exciting arena with large black and white murals depicting Italian life and landmarks. So you can start your dining experience by sitting down, looking up, and basking in the wonder of photography that brings Italy to life. 

We were greeted at the door, and after a few minutes, our server was ready at our table to get us started on a fantastic meal.

Fresh Homemade Bread with Roasted Garlic in olive oil is the starting point while you check through the vast menu and decide what your first course will be. Cocktails, beer or soda are all on the menu – but you can probably guess what I went for… 

A Basil Grapefruit Martini was my first selection being that I’m a martini fan. The martini and cocktail menu varies from time to time, but you will always find a Negroni, a Fugazi or a Smoked Fallen Angel Old Fashioned on the menu. 

We moved on to appetizers and chose the Grilled Octopus, pan seared and served with an olive oil and lemon vinaigrette. This was perfection to the bite with two large arms of the octopus perfectly tenderized and charred. 

Other appetizers you will find on their menu are Mussels or Clams in your choice of preparation, such as Provencal, Pesto, or Fra Diavolo; Antipasto Board with artisanal cured meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and olives; or a large plate of  Prosciutto, Mozzarella, and Roasted Peppers. 

Our entrees followed, and I couldn’t help but have what they call Rocco’s Bowls. The bowls come in three variations: Meatball Bowl, Sausage, Peppers and Onion Bowl, and Eggplant Bowl. It’s somewhat of an upside-down pizza served in an iron skillet. There was no doubt that would be my choice, since you don’t find it in hardly any restaurant, and I last enjoyed a version of this dish more than fifteen years ago. 

I had the Meatball Bowl and it was filled with delicious homemade meatballs covered in marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella. I loved every bit of it.

We also ordered the Lasagna Bolognese with ricotta and four other cheeses, slow-baked in marinara sauce. Again, it was the perfect example of authentic southern Italian food that warms you inside. 

I couldn’t go without dessert and had to try their Tiramisu. A huge slice of deliciousness with layers of lady finger pastry, coffee, mascarpone, and cocoa. This is one you can share, although it’s not a problem getting through it all yourself, thanks to its smooth consistency and incredible taste.

That took our dinner to its conclusion, but not without another chat with the owner, manager, and final notes from our server. We got a hint during our visit that smaller or “piccolo” portions will be available on their menu soon. 

One of my favorite things about Rocco’s Italian Kitchen is that they make everyone feel very welcome and treat you like a friend. This restaurant surpassed all my expectations and experiences. I highly recommend it. 

Rocco’s Italian Kitchen is located at:
3561 53rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34210
(941) 201-4449

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Have a Favorite Spot We Should Try Next?

We love shining a light on great local eats across Manatee County. If you know a restaurant that deserves a shoutout, we want to hear about it! Pitch your idea here and help us discover the next hidden gem.

About the Author

Jean Totti has spent a lifetime traveling and eating to satisfy his curiosity and learn about food. After many years of an Ivy League career in Architecture, he went back to school in 2014 and completed another master’s degree, this time in Journalism and Food Writing at USF.

That also led him to open his own restaurant which he ran for a number of years until he retired. Today he takes his writing and passion for food to several publications around the Tampa Bay Area and North Carolina. 

Got a favorite local view? A photo that perfectly captures life north of the river? Discover Parrish and Discover Palmetto are asking locals to share their best shots of the area — and get a little recognition in the process.

Right now, we’re collecting images that reflect the personality and beauty of the North River communities. That could mean a favorite local hangout, a quiet nature spot, or a street scene that just feels like home.

Submit Your Photo

To take part, head over to the photo submission page. It’s quick and easy to upload your image, and there’s no limit to how many you can send in.

Selected photos will be featured in the online gallery, and a few participants will be randomly chosen to receive gift cards to local businesses. It’s a fun way to show off your photo skills and support the community at the same time.

Get Featured and Represent Your Neighborhood

This is your chance to give people a real look at what makes the North River area so special. The images will help shape the look and feel of the Discover Parrish and Discover Palmetto websites and social media, giving locals a platform to share what they love about their neighborhoods.

If your photo is chosen, it could be viewed by thousands of residents, business owners, and visitors — a simple way to get your name out there and take part in something local.

About the Discover Parrish and Discover Palmetto Projects

These platforms are part of the larger Discover Bradenton network, which helps highlight small businesses, events, and community stories. Discover Parrish focuses on showcasing what’s new and noteworthy in the growing Parrish area. Discover Palmetto gives locals and visitors an inside look at this historic riverfront town.

Both sites are made for people who live here and those who want to know the area like a local. Submitting your photo is a great way to be part of that effort.

So grab your camera, scroll through your phone, or take a walk around town. Then send in your favorite shot and help show off the best of North River living.

Get ready to wave at Santa in shorts—he’s trading in his sleigh for a sunshine-filled trolley ride this summer.

On Friday, July 18, Santa will cruise through Bradenton for the Holly Jolly Trolley Christmas Parade: Christmas in July Edition. The event is organized by Home Helpers Home Care of Bradenton, in partnership with Still Alive Inside and other local supporters. Together, they’re spreading mid-year cheer to seniors and veterans across Manatee County.

Tropical Christmas Cheer for Local Seniors

The Holly Jolly Trolley will visit several assisted living communities, rehab centers, and adult day cares throughout the day. At each stop, residents will enjoy festive music, tropical holiday outfits, small gifts, and photos with Santa—who’s swapping his fur-trimmed coat for Hawaiian prints.

“We wanted to surprise our seniors with something completely unexpected,” said Sissy Ramos, Director of Client Care at Home Helpers. “It’s about laughter, memories, and connection.”

Although the stops themselves are private, the trolley will be out on public roads—and everyone’s encouraged to watch for it, snap a photo, and share it on social media using #HollyJollyTrolley.

Trolley Route and Timing

If you want to catch a glimpse, here’s a general idea of where the trolley will be:

• 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM: Traveling along Manatee Avenue (FL-64) in West Bradenton
• 11:30 AM to 12:45 PM: Heading east on Manatee Avenue, then south on 1st Street East, US 41, and 301, continuing onto University Parkway
• 12:45 PM to 2:45 PM: Returning west on University Parkway, then north on US 41
• 2:45 PM to 3:15 PM: Weaving through West Bradenton side streets, including 26th Street West and 21st Avenue West
• 3:15 PM to 4:00 PM: Wrapping up along 59th Street West in West Bradenton

Keep your eyes peeled along these roads and give the trolley crew a wave if you spot them!

Community Partners Bringing the Holiday Spirit

Several local organizations are lending their support to make the event a success. These include ArchWell Health, Encompass Health, Florida Health Resources, My Care Finders, and WeCare Senior Relocation Services.

Their goal is to bring a little joy and light to those who may not always get out to celebrate.

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To learn more about the Holly Jolly Trolley Christmas in July event, contact Jonathan Marsh at 813-495-8560 or visit Home Helpers Home Care of Bradenton.

Let’s face it, hair loss can be tough. Whether you’re noticing thinning spots or dealing with a receding hairline, it’s easy to feel self-conscious. But there’s a solution in Bradenton that a lot of people still don’t know about: scalp micropigmentation, or SMP.

This innovative treatment is changing the game for both men and women. And at CC Styling Studio, owner Christy Ray has made it her mission to help people feel confident in their appearance again.

What is SMP?

Scalp micropigmentation is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment that uses tiny needles to deposit pigment into the scalp. The result? A natural-looking buzz cut or the appearance of thicker hair that seamlessly blends in with your real hair. Christy describes it as “a tattoo that mimics hair follicles.”

It’s ideal for men who want to restore a full-looking hairline, but it’s also a solid option for women dealing with thinning areas. And unlike some treatments that come with a long recovery, SMP is quick, non-invasive, and surprisingly low-maintenance.

“There’s no swelling, no bleeding, and no downtime,” Christy explained. “You just have to keep your scalp dry for three days.”

Comfort and Results

Worried about pain? Don’t be. Most clients say the process feels like a light scratching sensation. But if you’re sensitive, Christy can apply a prescription-strength lidocaine cream to numb the area before getting started.

As for how long the results last, it depends on the person. Some clients might need a touch-up after a year, while others enjoy results that last closer to a decade. Prices range from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on how much coverage you need, but for many, the confidence boost is worth every penny.

A Bradenton Original

Christy’s story starts long before SMP was on anyone’s radar. “I’ve been doing hair since I was 13,” she said. “I used to cut my bus driver’s hair, my teacher’s hair… even the old guys hanging around my mom’s restaurant, the Cortez Café. I’d line them up and give them $10 haircuts.”

That early passion turned into a lifelong career. She opened her first salon before even graduating from Sun State Academy in Fort Myers. And now, with decades of experience, she’s added permanent makeup and SMP to her repertoire.

Today, she runs CC Styling Studio alongside her daughter, offering services that range from everyday hair styling to life-changing cosmetic procedures. The studio was recently voted the #1 Salon and SMP Clinic in South Bradenton—a well-deserved recognition for a business that’s been serving the community since 2006.

More Than Beauty

One of the things that sets Christy apart is her heart. She offers free permanent makeup to cancer patients, a service that helps survivors feel like themselves again after treatment. It’s just one example of how her work goes beyond aesthetics.

“If someone’s unsure about getting SMP, I tell them—it’s only going to make you feel better about yourself,” she said. “This service changes lives. You walk out of here looking fresh and feeling confident.”

Ready to Check It Out?

Whether you’re battling hair loss or just curious about what SMP could do for you, Christy is happy to answer questions and guide you through the process. You can explore her services and book a consultation through her Discover Bradenton listing.

CC Styling Studio is located in South Bradenton, 3645 Cortez Road West, Suite 140, and appointments can be made by calling 941-356-5153.

Final Thoughts

Scalp micropigmentation might be under the radar now, but it won’t be for long. If you’ve been thinking about doing something for yourself, this might be the right place to start. Christy Ray and her team are ready to help you look your best—no hair plugs, no downtime, just results that speak for themselves.