DOWNTOWN DIALOGUE: Winter Wonder and the Future of Williams Park

What’s next for Williams Park in Downtown St. Petersburg, Florida? In the third episode of Downtown Dialogue, host Karen Carmichael talks with Shaun Drinkard, CEO of the St. Petersburg Downtown Improvement District, about the transformation of one of St. Pete’s oldest and most historic public spaces.

The conversation focuses on Winter Wonder, a new holiday experience coming to Williams Park November 20 through January 3. The six-week celebration will feature an open-air ice skating rink, local makers market, food and beverages, live entertainment, family programming, and opportunities for local businesses and performers.

Shaun explains how Winter Wonder is more than a holiday event—it’s an important first step in creating a more vibrant, active, and welcoming Williams Park throughout the year. The episode explores the newly renovated bandshell, opportunities for small businesses to establish a temporary downtown presence, community programming, and the long-term vision for one of St. Petersburg’s most underutilized public spaces.

Karen and Shaun also discuss the history of Williams Park, its 3.3-acre footprint, the importance of bringing people together in public spaces, and the goal of making the park a destination for St. Petersburg residents, families, visitors, artists, entrepreneurs, and downtown businesses.

And don't miss Willie the Williams Park Penguin, the official mascot of Winter Wonder, who will be making appearances around St. Pete throughout the holiday season.

🎙️ Topics include: Williams Park, Downtown St. Petersburg, Winter Wonder, ice skating, holiday events, St. Pete small businesses, local makers, live entertainment, public spaces, downtown development, community programming, and the future of Downtown St. Pete.

📅 Winter Wonder: November 20 – January 3
📍 Williams Park | Downtown St. Petersburg, Florida
🆓 Free Admission to the Park
⛸️$18 reserved includes skate rental and  75 minutes of skate time 

🌐 More information and ice skating reservations and tickets : winterwonderstpete.com

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