Fun Activities and Events to Check Out in Tampa This Weekend

Top Events Happening in Tampa This Weekend

Tampa is bursting with energy and excitement, especially during weekends. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, there are countless things to do in Tampa this weekend. From lively festivals to riveting concerts, you’re bound to find an event that resonates with you. Let’s dive into the top happenings that you shouldn’t miss!

Local Festivals and Community Gatherings

Festivals in Tampa foster community spirit, celebrate local culture, and provide enjoyment for all ages. This weekend, several noteworthy festivals will take place across the city, showcasing everything from local cuisine to art.

Gasparilla Festival: This legendary festival is a celebration of Tampa’s pirate history. Participants are encouraged to join the pirate parade, enjoy live performances, and feast on an array of local delicacies.
Tampa Bay Margarita Festival: If you’re a fan of margaritas, then this festival should not be missed. Attendees can taste various margarita concoctions, enjoy live music, and engage in fun activities.
Ybor City Salsa Festival: A vibrant event dedicated to Latin culture, featuring salsa competitions, dance workshops, and delicious food vendors. It’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the rhythms of Tampa’s diverse heritage.

Live Music and Concerts to Attend

Nothing sets the weekend vibe quite like live music. Tampa’s diverse music scene has plenty to offer you, whether you’re into rock, jazz, or hip-hop. Here are some highlights:

Amalie Arena Concert Series: Check out the lineup for the weekend, which may include popular artists and bands.
Local Bars and Venues: Many bars in the area host local bands and artists performing live music. Venues like The Straz Center and Orpheum are must-visits for live shows.
Outdoor Music Festivals: Enjoy the outdoors while listening to amazing performances at places like Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.

Spectacular Expositions and Shows

Tampa’s expositions bring together art, science, and interactive displays, making it easy to learn something new. This weekend you can experience:

Florida State Fair: A huge attraction featuring rides, games, and exhibits that showcase Florida’s agricultural achievements.
Arts & Crafts Show: Local artists and craftsmen gather to display and sell their unique work, providing an opportunity to support local talent.

Outdoor Adventures and Recreation

For those who love the sun and outdoor activities, Tampa offers an array of adventure and recreational options. The city’s beautiful weather means you can enjoy outdoor fun almost all year round.

Best Parks and Nature Trails

Tampa features numerous parks that are perfect for picnics, hiking, and enjoying the great outdoors. Some top parks include:

Hyde Park: This scenic park features oak trees, walking paths, and a beautiful waterfront—perfect for leisurely strolls.
Al Lopez Park: Ideal for families, this park has playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails for walking and jogging.
Tampa Bay Walk: A picturesque walkway along the waterfront offering stunning views of the bay and plenty of spots to relax.

Water Activities and Coastal Fun

No trip to Tampa is complete without experiencing its waterfront attractions. Enjoy various water activities including:

Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore the mangroves and bays by renting a kayak or paddleboard. Popular spots include Tampa Bay and Hillsborough River.
Boat Tours: Enjoy a guided boat tour to witness the beautiful coastal scenery and local wildlife. Sunset cruises are particularly popular!
Fishing Charters: Whether you prefer shore fishing or deep-sea fishing, Tampa’s charters provide a great way to spend your day on the water.

Unique Local Tours and Experiences

Looking for a unique way to explore Tampa? Check out these one-of-a-kind tours that guarantee to be unforgettable:

Ghost Tours: Delve into the haunted history of Tampa with a spooky tour that explores the city’s ghostly legends.
Food Tours: Experience Tampa’s culinary scene through guided food tours that take you to local eateries and hidden gems.
Bike Tours: Discover the city on two wheels with a bike tour that takes you through historical sites and scenic routes.

Cultural Highlights and Arts Scene

Cultural experiences help enrich the weekend. Tampa’s arts and culture scene is vibrant, offering numerous museums, galleries, and performances.

Museums and Art Galleries

Whether you are an art fanatic or a history buff, Tampa’s museums and galleries offer a wealth of knowledge:

Tampa Museum of Art: Known for its contemporary art collections, this museum often hosts rotating exhibitions and educational programs.
Florida Aquarium: An excellent place for families, showcasing marine life native to Florida’s waters and interactive exhibits.
Henry B. Plant Museum: Located in the historic Tampa Bay Hotel, it offers a glimpse into the life of Gilded Age America.

Theater Productions and Live Performances

Tampa has a rich performing arts culture, making it the perfect place to enjoy live theater. Consider attending:

Broadway Shows: The Straz Center frequently hosts national Broadway tours, providing a premier theater experience.
Local Theater Companies: Various community theaters in Tampa offer plays and musicals that showcase local talent.

Art Walks and Community Showcases

Experience the artistic side of Tampa through its art walks and showcases:

South Tampa Art Walk: This monthly event features local artists showcasing their work in various venues throughout the area.
Tampa Bay Art & Craft Show: A gathering of local artisans and crafters displaying their creations.

Dining Experiences and Food Events

No weekend is complete without indulging in some culinary delights. Tampa boasts a diverse culinary scene that reflects its cultural melting pot.

Must-Visit Restaurants in Tampa

Tampa’s restaurant scene is a blend of traditional and modern dining experiences. Don’t miss these popular spots:

Columbia Restaurant: A historic restaurant famous for its Spanish cuisine and exceptional atmosphere.
Bern’s Steak House: Known for its aged steaks and extensive wine list, it’s a must-visit for meat lovers.
Ulele: This restaurant pays homage to local history and culture, focusing on native-inspired cuisine and craft beer.

Food Festivals and Tastings

Food festivals celebrate Tampa’s diverse culinary landscape with exciting activities and tastings:

Ybor City Food Festival: Sample a wide variety of local dishes, highlighting the vibrant flavors of Cuban and Latin cuisine.
Craft Beer & Food Festival: Taste local craft beers paired with mouthwatering food from food vendors.

Popular Food Trucks and Street Eats

If you’re looking for casual dining experiences, Tampa’s food truck scene has plenty to offer. Here are some popular food trucks:

What The Fork: Known for gourmet sandwiches and unique menu items.
Say Cheese: This food truck specializes in grilled cheese sandwiches that are out of this world.
Thai Street Food: Offering authentic Thai dishes that tantalize the taste buds.

Family-Friendly Activities for Everyone

Weekends in Tampa are ideal for family bonding time. Numerous activities cater to family fun, ensuring memorable experiences for all.

Events Tailored for Kids and Families

Check out family-oriented events happening this weekend, perfect for all ages:

Kids Fest: A family-friendly festival featuring activities, games, and entertainment geared towards children.
Science Fairs: Entertaining and educational fairs that engage kids in hands-on learning experiences.

Interactive Exhibits and Education

Museums and educational centers in Tampa have interactive exhibits designed for young learners. These include:

Tampa Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI): A hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits that ignite curiosity in kids.
Glazer Children’s Museum: An interactive museum that features a variety of engaging exhibits for children of all ages.

Fun Places to Go for Family Outings

Plan a family outing to these entertaining locales:

Busch Gardens: A theme park combining thrilling rides with the beauty of nature, making it great for families.
Adventure Island: A water park filled with slides and pools that provide fun for all ages during the hot Florida weather.

In conclusion, Tampa is a city rich in experiences. With its vibrant events, outdoor adventures, rich culture, gastronomic delights, and family-friendly activities, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do this weekend. So gather your friends and family, and dive into the best of what Tampa has to offer!