15+ Best Farmers Markets in Tampa Bay for Farm Fresh Produce
We’re dishing on our favorite farmers markets in Tampa Bay for farm fresh, locally grown produce, local honey, and more!
Laura Byrne
Laura Byrne is an award-winning journalist whose 15+ years in Florida newsrooms have shaped her into a trusted voice for Tampa Bay families. As Creative Director and Managing Editor of Tampa Bay Parenting and Orlando Parenting she leads a team dedicated to delivering expert-backed, locally relevant content for parents and families across the Tampa Bay area. With a career spanning television and print journalism, Laura blends professional expertise with her personal journey as a mom to two boys, offering practical insights that resonate with busy caregivers.Laura earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication at Florida State University. She launched her career in 2002 as a reporter at SNN Local News 6 in Sarasota, followed by stints at WCTV in Tallahassee (2002-2007), WINK News in Fort Myers (2007-2009), and WTSP-TV in Tampa Bay (2009-2013). Over 25 years, she covered politics, crime, and breaking news, earning accolades for her sharp reporting and on-air presence.Since joining the magazine Laura has transformed Tampa Bay Parenting into an award-winning publication, doubling its revenue and creating timely, relevant local content for local parents, while earning multiple Florida Magazine Association Charlie Awards for excellence in journalism.Laura also served on the Hillsborough County Anti-Bullying Advisory Committee, the Juvenile Justice Advisory Board for Circuit 13, and as a board member of Leadership Hillsborough (Class of 2021-2022). A sustainer of The Junior League of Tampa, Laura’s civic engagement underscores her dedication to the Tampa Bay area.Laura’s insights reach beyond Tampa Bay Parenting. She’s been featured in outlets like WFLA, Tampa Bay Times, and The KNOW Women, sharing expertise on parenting and media.
Articles by Laura Byrne
The Gift of Experience in Tampa Bay: A Holiday Gift List Must
Rather than overloading our kids with more toys and clutter, why not give the gift of experience in Tampa Bay? An annual pass or membership to a local attraction is not only cost-effective, it’s a gift that keeps on giving year–round to the entire family. Added bonus- many of the attractions that offer summer camps…
12+ Places to Donate New Toys in Tampa Bay this Holiday Season
The high cost of living and inflation continue to make a significant impact on families and the non-profit organizations that support them. If you are financially able, donating a new toy and even food for a local family in need will make a big difference this holiday season.
Kids to Know: Jacob Pham, 8th grader at Corbett Prep Performed as Simba on Broadway in New York City
He’s only in 8th grade, and yet Corbett Prep 8th grader Jacob Pham has already lived a dream of so many: performing in one of the longest-running shows on Broadway, “The Lion King.” But landing the role of Young Simba was not overnight success, but the result of years of hard work, perseverance and the…
Moms to Know: Molly Lippincott, Senior Curator of Florida & Marine Life at ZooTampa
Get to know Molly Lippincott, senior curator at ZooTampa at Lowry Park as the Zoo gets ready to debut all-new animal experiences in 2026!
Don’t miss out on the USPS letters from Santa program!
The United States Postal Service is giving your child the opportunity to participate in the “Greetings from the North Pole” program for the cost of a postage stamp!
Our Favorite Things to Do Thanksgiving Break in Tampa Bay
Lucky you for calling Tampa Bay home. There are so many things to do in Tampa Bay. From day camps to events and activities, we’ve got it all on our top picks list.
Tampa Mom Launches Tampa Bay SNAP Gap Megalist to Help Local Families in Need
Tampa mom, Kas Miller, is hoping to help keep bellies full by bridging the gap with the launch of the Tampa Bay SNAP Gap Megalist.
10 Cool Places to Buy a Christmas Tree this Year in Tampa Bay
We’re sharing some of our favorite places to buy Christmas trees in Tampa Bay, including where to cut your own tree.
TPA All Access program is returning and we LOVE it!
TPA All Access is returning to Tampa International Airport beginning November 3, and we can’t wait! It’s a chance to go to the Airsides and experience all of the amazing local restaurants and shops while you dream up your next big trip, no plane ticket necessary!
Metropolitan Ministries Sounding the Alarm: Donations Needed Desperately
Metropolitan Ministries says it is serving double the number of families it typically serves, and it could get worse, but there are ways your family can help support them and the families they serve.
Yes, you and the kids can go dig for dinosaurs…and we did it with PaleoAdventures!
Yes, you and the kids can go dig for dinosaurs…and you can do it alongside the paleontologist who discovered Big John, the world’s largest triceratops, the dinosaur on display at Glazer Children’s Museum!
How to Volunteer with the Kids in Tampa Bay: 10+ ways to give back
We’re sharing ways you can volunteer with the kids in Tampa Bay to turn quality family time into give back time!
INSIDE LOOK: Harvest Days at Keel Farms in Plant City 2025
Join us for a look at this year’s Harvest Days at Keel Farms and explore all of the fun fall farm fun for the family!
INSIDE LOOK: Mote SEA is now open in Sarasota and it’s INCREDIBLE!
There’s a brand-new aquarium in Tampa Bay for you to explore with the kids, and it is absolutely incredible. We got a chance to get a peek at Mote SEA: Science Education Aquarium before opening day. So let’s dive into all the details so you can map out an epic day under the sea! When…
Meet the 2025 Recipients of Hillsborough County’s Anti-Bullying Award
Get to know Tampa Bay’s Bully Busters: Hillsborough County students who go above and beyond to fight bullying in our community.
Calling all pint-sized Bucs Fans: You can join the Jr. Bucs Fan Club today!
Kids can join the Jr Bucs Fan Club today and receive a super cool welcome kit, member perks, special event invites, and more!
Scary Good: Our Team Shares Their Favorite DIY Halloween Costumes
Our team here at Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine share their favorite DIY Halloween costumes to spark some ghoulishly good ideas this Halloween!
Yes, you CAN cut down your own Florida Christmas Tree at Ergle Tree Farm!
Discover this adorable tree farm in Dade City where you can cut down your own Florida Christmas tree this holiday season, or shop for a pre-cut tree from North Carolina!
AHOY! Let’s board a Pirate’s Christmas Cruise on the Lost Pearl!
Come aboard with us as we share our adventure on The Lost Pearl’s ‘A Pirate’s Christmas Cruise’ in Downtown Tampa!
