Downtown Tampa Events: A Guide To The Best Celebrations In 2023

Living in Downtown Tampa has always been a dream come true for me. It’s a place where you can find everything from world-class restaurants to bustling nightlife, and of course, some of the best events in the city. As we look forward to 2023, there are plenty of exciting events lined up that you won’t want to miss.

Upcoming Events in Downtown Tampa

Here are just a few of the events that will be taking place in Downtown Tampa this year:

• Gasparilla Pirate Festival
• Tampa Bay Margarita & Music Festival
• Tampa Bay Lightning Hockey Games
• Tampa Bay Beer Week
• Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival

Gasparilla Pirate Festival

The Gasparilla Pirate Festival is one of the most anticipated events in Tampa Bay. It’s a celebration of the city’s pirate history and culture, and it takes place every year in late January or early February. The festival includes a parade, a pirate invasion, and plenty of live music and entertainment. If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly event, Gasparilla is not to be missed.

Tampa Bay Margarita & Music Festival

If you’re a fan of margaritas and live music, then the Tampa Bay Margarita & Music Festival is the event for you. It’s a two-day festival that takes place in May and features over 50 different margarita flavors, as well as live music from some of the best local and national bands. The festival has become a staple event in Downtown Tampa, and it’s a great way to kick off the summer.

Tampa Bay Lightning Hockey Games

If you’re a sports fan, then you won’t want to miss a Tampa Bay Lightning hockey game. The Lightning are one of the best teams in the NHL, and they play their home games at the Amalie Arena in Downtown Tampa. The arena is always packed with passionate fans, and the atmosphere is electric. Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or just looking for a fun night out, a Lightning game is a must-see event.

Tampa Bay Beer Week

Tampa Bay Beer Week is a celebration of craft beer and the local breweries that make it. The event takes place in March and includes over 100 different beer-related events, including tastings, beer dinners, and brewery tours. If you’re a beer lover, this is the event for you.

Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival

The Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival is a week-long celebration of the city’s culinary scene. It takes place in November and includes tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wine pairings from some of the best local chefs and restaurants. If you’re a foodie, you won’t want to miss this event.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Downtown Tampa?

The best time to visit Downtown Tampa is between January and April, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of events taking place.

What is the dress code for events in Downtown Tampa?

The dress code for events in Downtown Tampa varies depending on the event. For more formal events, such as the Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival, dressy casual attire is recommended. For more casual events, such as the Gasparilla Pirate Festival, comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended.

Are there any free events in Downtown Tampa?

Yes, there are plenty of free events in Downtown Tampa, such as the monthly Fourth Friday event, which includes free admission to many of the city’s museums and galleries.

Are there any family-friendly events in Downtown Tampa?

Yes, many of the events in Downtown Tampa are family-friendly, such as the Gasparilla Pirate Festival and the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey games.

What is the best way to get around Downtown Tampa during events?

The best way to get around Downtown Tampa during events is to use public transportation or ride-sharing services, as parking can be limited and expensive.

Are there any events for sports fans in Downtown Tampa?

Yes, the Tampa Bay Lightning hockey games are a great event for sports fans, as well as the Tampa Bay Rays baseball games, which take place just a short drive from Downtown Tampa.

Overall, Downtown Tampa is a vibrant and exciting place to live or visit, and the events and celebrations that take place throughout the year only add to its charm. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, be sure to check out some of these upcoming events and experience all that Downtown Tampa has to offer.