Good morning, Kissimmee.

The City of Kissimmee Parks — Recreation Department will host Barktoberfest on October 11 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Bob Makinson Aquatic Center, where pet owners can pay $5 per dog after showing proof of current rabies vaccination and ensuring their dogs pass an aggression check before swimming.

A small mother-and-daughter-owned dance and music studio in downtown Kissimmee faces financial strain as rising US tariffs drive up prices on imported supplies like Russian pointe shoes used in ballet classes.

The studio now deals with unpredictable price hikes and disrupted vendor relationships — its Russian supplier has stopped shipping, complicating efforts to manage costs.

Wild Florida in Osceola County will host Pumpkin Fest on Saturday, October 18 from 10 AM to 4 PM—families can paint pumpkins for $5 or choose a $10 combo ticket that includes Gator Park admission, and RSVPs must be submitted by October 1.

Kissimmee is offering relief grants to help local small businesses that are still struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eligible businesses include those with lower revenue, higher costs, or pandemic-related debt—applications are now being accepted.

For the third consecutive year, Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA) was recognized as a Top Workplace by the Orlando Sentinel’s 2025 program based on high employee satisfaction and a positive work culture.

The utility also earned a special Training award and ranked among Central Florida’s 130 leading companies and one of the top ten midsize employers.

Starting October 1, businesses in downtown Kissimmee must obtain an After Midnight Alcohol Sales Permit to serve alcohol from midnight to 2 a.m.—those without a permit must close by midnight.

The regulation was approved on July 15 and will be enforced by the Kissimmee Police Department.

Tohopekaliga will travel to Harmony this Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at The Ranch for a crucial Class 7A, District 10 football game — both teams need a win after recent losses to boost their playoff chances.

Blippi: Join the Band Tour

2-3:30 p.m. — Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the joy of music with Blippi and friends in a family-friendly show.

MSCI Florida Chapter 2025 Networking Dinner

6-9 p.m. — Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center — Registration required — Network with professionals in a beautiful resort setting while enjoying an evening in Kissimmee.

25th Annual Shirley Rogers’ Memorial Scholarship Golf Tournament

7 a.m. — Celebration Golf Club — $275 entry fee — Participate in a golf tournament supporting scholarship awards with breakfast, lunch, and raffles.

Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts and Goblins Halloween Event

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Gatorland — Included with admission — Enjoy a fun-filled family Halloween event with interactive experiences and character meet-and-greets.

Generations Retreat 2025

8 PM – 4 PM — 2513 Shanti Dr, Kissimmee, FL — Early bird $300, $100 deposit — Experience a Spirit-filled weekend of deep ministry, vibrant fellowship, and unforgettable fun.

The Bingo Experience: Kissimmee Edition

7-10 p.m. — Sun On the Beach — Early bird tickets available — Embrace the fun with a lively bingo night featuring music, games, and laughter.