🌱 Rock The '80s Party + Bonsai And Brews + Mermaid Strut Parade

Hello all! It's Kristen, your host of the Dunedin Daily — back in your inbox with all the most important things happening locally. In today's Daily, you'll find these stories and more...

• Upcoming Greyhound Pop-Up Meet and Greet at HOB
• An all-out '80s party at Paddywagon Dunedin
• Join the Mermaid Strut at this year's Mardi Gras parade

But first, today's weather:

A t-storm around in the p.m. High: 79 Low: 56.

Big love to our premier local sponsor. We couldn’t keep the community informed without you!

Looking for original, unique artwork created by local Dunedin artists? Stirling Art Studios & Gallery is home to 12 professional artists honing their craft, while providing original artwork that appeals to collectors, interior designers, and homeowners alike. Located at 730 Broadway in the heart of Downtown Dunedin, their mission is to promote the arts to our community. Visit them here to learn more or stop by Thursday-Sunday from 11-3 to view them at work and learn about the creative process.

Want to see your business featured in this spot? Click here to get started.

Here are the top stories today in Dunedin:

1. Paddywagon Dunedin is hosting an '80s party on Jan. 28 at 8 p.m. Stop by to hear DJ Smitty spin the biggest hits of the decade! Come in your best '80s gear! The best-dressed individual and best-dressed couple will receive a prize! Guests will also enjoy a special '80s-themed drink menu and photo backdrop. It's the kind of event you don't want to miss! (Paddywagon Dunedin via Facebook)
2. Have you ever wanted to learn the art of bonsai? Thunderstruck Bonsai is hosting Bonsai & Brews at Caledonia Brewing on Feb. 15 between 7 and 9 p.m. Attendees will learn a brief history of bonsai before hosts go over some basic care instructions and maintenance techniques. Then you’ll get some hands-on experience when you pot, prune, and style your own bonsai tree! Space is limited, but if you can't make it in February, there's another Bonsai & Brews event scheduled in March. Get your tickets here. (Thunderstruck Bonsai via Facebook)
3. This year's Mardi Gras parade will include a Mermaid Strut, where participants dressed like mermaids will walk in the parade between floats. Anyone can participate, simply register online here before Feb. 8 and start digging anything out of your closet that resembles what mermaids wear. Have fun and get creative with your costume! Learn more about the Mermaid Strut at the link. (Ina’s Mermaid School via Facebook)

Dunedin Daily Pic of the Day:

Thank you, Lauren Smith, for sharing this incredible photo you caught of a Blue Heron looking for its next meal in Hammock Park!

Want to see your Dunedin photo here? Submit it to Dunedin@Patch.com for consideration! Please confirm in the email that you own the rights to the photo and that Patch has permission to republish it.

Today in Dunedin:

• Alzheimer Caregiver Support Group at the Hale Senior Activity Center (10 a.m.)
• "The Evolution of Hammock Park" at the Hale Senior Activity Center (6:30 p.m.)
• Ruck Dunedin at HOB Brewing (6:30 p.m.)

From my notebook:

• Looking to shake things up? Join the New World Celts - Dunedin Chapter for Kilt Night at Caledonia Brewing on Feb. 4 at 8 p.m. Stop by to have a few drinks and enjoy a performance by Clover's Revenge. Kilts are encouraged. Pants are tolerated. (New World Celts - Dunedin Chapter via Facebook)
• Need a private office space in Downtown Dunedin? The Dunedin Chamber of Commerce is renting a beautiful second-floor space overlooking Main Street and Broadway in the heart of downtown. Click the link to learn more. (Dunedin Chamber of Commerce via Facebook)
• LMB Boutique is now an official sponsor of Dunedin Cares! Bring in five canned or packaged goods and receive $10 off a purchase of $100 or more. Stop by the boutique off Main Street with your donations today! (LMB Boutique via Facebook)
• HOB is hosting a Greyhound Pop-Up Meet and Greet on Jan. 29 between noon and 2 p.m.! Stop by to meet and pet some adorable pups. Anyone interested in adopting a Greyhound can learn more and fill out an application here. (Gold Coast Greyhound Adoptions via Facebook)
• The Family Funk is making their debut on the patio of Blur Nightclub this weekend! The funk and jazz band will perform on Jan. 28 between 8 and 11 p.m. Be sure to stop by to listen! (The Family Funk via Facebook)
• Reminder: Don't forget to register for the Harry Potter-themed Watch & Play event on Jan. 27 at 6 p.m. in the MLK Jr. Rec Center. The kids will get the opportunity to watch a movie, play games, get their faces painted, and enjoy some special treats! (City of Dunedin via Facebook)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured businesses:

• DavisDNA & Family Research, Inc. — (Visit website)
• Add your business here

Events:

• Taxes in Retirement Seminar at Largo Public Library (January 31)
• Add your event

That's it for today! I'll see you soon.