Opposites Attract: Let's Debate & Have Fun

Opposites Attract is a gathering with a debate format where we value dialogue over division. Where both audience members and experts get a chance to express different viewpoints with a spirit of respect and curiosity. The goal isn’t to win an argument—it’s to explore ideas and discover perspectives and insights you might not have considered. There will be three rounds, moving from light-hearted to deeper topics. Rounds 1 and 2 involve audience participation. Round 3 is the headline debate where prepared experts face off.

Schedule:

• 5:30PM - Doors Open
• 5:30 PM - 6:45 PM - Review debate topics and sign up to debate (optional)
• 6:45 PM - Debate Teams Assigned/Announced
• 7:00PM - Debating Begins

Headline Debate - Brian Peret, Director of Codeboxx Academy & Dr. Nashid Madyun, Executive Director of Florida Humanities

Topic: In Defense of the Humanities vs. Why the Future Should Be STEM

Do the humanities still matter in a world increasingly driven by science and technology? This debate pits the timeless wisdom of history, literature, and philosophy against the forward momentum of STEM. Should society continue to invest in studying what it means to be human, or double down on the technical skills that will fuel innovation and growth? Join us for a thought-provoking exchange on what knowledge we value most for the future.

Each evening unfolds in three unique rounds:

Round 1 – Light-Hearted & Fun

We begin with a playful topic (think Cats vs. Dogs). Audience members form two teams who share quick, lively, perspectives.

It’s an easy way to warm up and enjoy the variety of opinions in the room.

Round 2 – Deeper Conversation

The second round moves into a more thought-provoking subject (think The Arts: Luxury vs. Necessity). Again, two teams of audience volunteers present contrasting views, offering more substance and stories while keeping the format welcoming.

Round 3 – Headline Debate

For the finale, two experts debate in a classic one-on-one format (think Economic Development vs. Historic Preservation).

This round invites careful reasoning and demonstrates how thoughtful disagreement can be both compelling and constructive.

How It Works:

Audience members can sign up on-site to speak in Rounds 1 or 2 (no experience needed). Five individuals will be selected for each team that will debate each other.

Each speaker will have 60 seconds to share their perspective, either as new information and/or to respectfully refute the other team's opinions/facts. Each debate round will last approximately 10 minutes.

Round 3 is the headline debate comprised of two prepared debaters. Each will have 90 seconds for opening remarks followed by 60 seconds rebuttal, followed by a 30 second speed round, and then 60 seconds for closing remarks. The debate will be 11 minutes long.

Audience Engagement: After every debate round, the audience will have 5 minutes to ask questions of each debate team followed by 10 minutes of discussion regarding new perspectives and insights gained.

What is a Third Place?

Home is considered the 1st Place. Work is considered the 2nd Place. Third places are informal gathering spots that foster social connection and community through conversations and interactions with people of various backgrounds.

Info: Schedule:
5:30PM - Doors Open
5:30 PM - 6:45 PM - Review debate topics and sign up to debate (optional)
6:45 PM - Debate Teams Assigned/Announced
7:00PM - Debating Begins

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Bayboro Brewing Co., 2390 5th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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