It’s early morning. The river is still. The city hasn’t yet stirred. And there you are—with gloves on, trash bag in hand, standing at the edge of something bigger than yourself. The Tampa Riverwalk Earth Day Cleanup is more than an event; it’s a movement. Beginning April 22 at 8 a.m., this hands-on mission is all about giving back to Tampa’s vibrant downtown, preserving the Hillsborough River, and creating cleaner, greener streets for all.
Unite for a Cleaner Tampa
Mark your calendar—Tuesday, April 22, 2025, is the day to step up and stand out. Starting at Cotanchobee Park (601 Water Street), the cleanup effort is hosted by Friends of the Riverwalk. It’s a golden opportunity to connect with your community, restore the city’s natural beauty, and contribute to a sustainable Tampa future.
The morning kicks off with check-in at 8 a.m., followed by a full-on cleanup spree until 11 a.m. The best part? You can pre-register online to lock in your spot and make the most out of Earth Day.
Water, Walks, and Willpower
Not just a walk—this event welcomes kayakers too! Bring your own kayak and paddle through the Hillsborough River to catch litter before it flows farther. Whether you’re floating down the river, strolling the Riverwalk, or bending down to pick up trash in Cotanchobee Park, every piece collected counts.
This eco-conscious initiative is a powerful collaboration between Friends of the Riverwalk, Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, and the City of Tampa. Together, they’re building momentum through the Trash Free Waters Program, a nationwide mission to fight pollution before it reaches the ocean.
Be the Change You Want to See
Litter isn’t just ugly—it’s harmful. It endangers urban wildlife, contaminates our water, and tarnishes the charm of Tampa’s most iconic attractions. By showing up and cleaning up, you’re restoring more than a park. You’re reviving a piece of your hometown.
Volunteers should bring:
- Work or garden gloves (soft ones provided too)
- Sunscreen
- Hat and sunglasses
- Close-toed shoes
These essentials keep you safe, stylish, and ready for action.
Goodies, Gratitude, and Giving Back
Every volunteer receives free trash bags, cold bottled water, and possibly some promotional giveaways—while supplies last, of course. Parking info is still in the works, but updates will be posted online. Keep your eye on Friends of the Riverwalk’s social media or their official website for the latest scoop.
Cotanchobee Park is more than just a starting line. Nestled along the scenic Hillsborough River, it offers access to museums, green spaces, and riverside eateries. Once the job’s done, you can stick around and enjoy Tampa in full bloom—a reward well-earned.
Be Part of Tampa’s Greener Future
This Earth Day, don’t just scroll past another “green initiative” post. Be the post. Be the person. Be the change. Sign up, show up, and make Earth Day 2025 count along Tampa’s most treasured stretch of river. You’ll walk away with dirty hands, a full heart, and maybe even a new perspective.
So—will you sleep in, or will you show up? Because the river’s waiting. And Tampa needs heroes. Gloves on. Let’s go.
Are you on social media? Check out our profile for more local news! Follow @TampaLatest for up-to-the-minute updates in Tampa, Florida.
