Patrick Day Parade Returns to Downtown Tampa

by Cory White
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The Patrick Day Parade is set to return to downtown Tampa on Saturday, March 15, 2025, bringing a sea of green, colorful floats, and celebrity guests to the heart of the city. Hosted by the Tampa Rough Riders, this 30th Annual Parade promises fun, entertainment, and community spirit like never before.

30 Years of Parade Tradition

The Patrick Day Parade celebrates three decades of Irish pride, lively street performances, and family-friendly fun. Over the years, it has grown into one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day events in the Southeast, attracting visitors from across Florida.

Star-Studded Grand Marshals

This year’s Patrick Day Parade will feature Four-star General Bryan P. Fenton, Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, as Grand Marshal. Joining him is Buccaneers legend Rondé Barber, who will take on the role of Celebrity Marshal, adding excitement for sports fans and parade-goers alike.

75+ Floats and Krewes

The Patrick Day Parade starts at 3 p.m., beginning at Joe Chillura Square and winding through downtown Tampa. Expect over 75 creative floats, along with marching bands, dance groups, and appearances from local krewes, all adding to the festive atmosphere.

Record Crowds Expected

With over 40,000 spectators in 2024, organizers expect an even bigger turnout this year. Lt. Col. Greg Eckley, President of the Tampa Rough Riders, shared that downtown Tampa has become the perfect home for the Patrick Day Parade, drawing families, locals, and visitors alike.

River Greening and More

Before the Patrick Day Parade begins, Tampa’s Hillsborough River will turn a vibrant shade of green, kicking off the citywide celebration. Curtis Hixon Park and Gaslight Square Park will host live music, food vendors, and family activities throughout the day.

Reserve Bleacher Seats

Want the best view of the Patrick Day Parade? Preferred bleacher seating along East Madison Street is available for $25 per person. These tickets offer prime views next to the Shriners’ Beer Garden and are available in advance at tamparoughriders.org.

Rough Riders’ Community Impact

The Patrick Day Parade is organized by the Tampa Rough Riders, a nonprofit group honoring Theodore Roosevelt’s 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry Regiment. Beyond hosting parades, they are known for distributing thousands of teddy bears to children in hospitals, cancer patients, and families in need across Tampa Bay.

Tampa’s Ultimate St. Patrick’s Celebration

From the green river to the celebrity guests, the Patrick Day Parade is the ultimate way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Tampa. Bring your friends and family to downtown Tampa for a day of music, floats, and festive fun.

Don’t miss the magic as Tampa’s Patrick Day Parade transforms downtown into a sea of green fun, blending tradition, entertainment, and community spirit.

Are you on social media? Check out our profile for more local news! Follow @TampaLatest for up-to-the-minute updates in Tampa, Florida.

Looking for even more can’t-miss Tampa events? Don’t miss the return of Tampa’s Massive Riverfest this May! Check out the full event lineup, food festivals, and lantern parade details here:
Tampa’s Massive Riverfest Returns May 2025 to the Riverwalk

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