here’s something electric in the Tampa air every spring, and this year, it hums with the promise of guitar strings, street tacos, glowing lanterns, and the voice behind “All for You.” Sister Hazel, Gainesville’s beloved band, is set to headline the 9th Annual Tampa Riverfest, and if the anticipation feels thick, it’s because it is. On Saturday, May 3, at Curtis Hixon Park, fans will gather under the stars to hear the platinum-selling group bring their genre-blending magic back to life.
A Weekend Where the River Walks and the Music Talks
From May 2 to May 3, Tampa Riverfest transforms the Riverwalk into a pulsing artery of music, food, and culture. Hosted by Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk and powered by Publix Super Markets, this free community celebration stretches across Curtis Hixon Park, Water Works Park, and Sparkman Wharf. Festivalgoers can expect everything from neon-lit parades to sizzling tacos and beer tents that never seem to dry up.
Friday, May 2: The Taste, The Tunes, and The Black Honkeys
Friday kicks off at 5 p.m. with live music, the perfect setting sun companion. But the real culinary showstopper is the Taste of the Riverwalk, opening at 5:30 p.m., where foodies can sample dishes from top Tampa restaurants. The deal? Three samples for $20 or five for $25 before May 1—prices climb by $5 on event day, so early birds truly get the flavor.
By 8:30 p.m., prepare for a high-voltage performance by The Black Honkeys, who bring their signature fusion of Motown, funk, and rock to the Curtis Hixon Main Stage. It’s not just music—it’s a groove you can’t shake off.
Saturday, May 3: Tacos, Tunes, and Racing Dachshunds
Saturday begins with Taco Fest, featuring savory delights from Jotoro and Streetlight Taco. Early bird pricing remains $20 for three tacos and $25 for five. The food will flow alongside a wide offering of beer, margaritas, and food trucks dishing up everything from gourmet bites to sugary indulgences.
At 11 a.m., the park turns into a paws-and-panic zone with the Florida Wiener Dog Derby. Expect dachshund races, a whimsical “Jurassic Bark” costume contest, and a sea of tiny legs sprinting for eternal glory. It’s one of the largest wiener dog events in Florida, and its chaotic charm never disappoints.
Sister Hazel Lights Up the River
As the sun sets, the stage heats up. From 11 a.m. onward, live music keeps the energy burning, leading into the night’s crown jewel—Sister Hazel’s headline performance at 9 p.m. Their fusion of rock, alternative, and country made them a Billboard mainstay, but it’s their soul—both musical and philanthropic—that steals hearts. Through their nonprofit Lyrics for Life, the band has helped raise over $5 million for cancer research, turning melodies into medicine.
Water Works Park: Paddleboards, Yoga, and Sky-High Stunts
Start Saturday off with a splash. At 8:30 a.m., Urban Kai Paddle Invasion offers two river routes—6-mile or 2-mile—tailored to the paddleboarder’s spirit. By 9 a.m., Free Yourself Yoga invites early risers to flow into the weekend with a donation-based class at Armature Works.
The Riverfest Market runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., curated by The Women’s Creative, featuring 30+ vendors. Families can enjoy kid-friendly activities, a DJ dance party, and some shady rest under the live oaks.
By mid-afternoon, the adrenaline shifts. At 3 p.m., Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Rays, and Lightning bring their sports activations to Water Works Park. And at 4 p.m., the Tampa Bay Water Ski Team launches into aerial action with flips, twists, and breathtaking stunts over the Hillsborough River.
The Glowing Heartbeat of the Festival: Riverwalk Lantern Parade
The night glows soft and golden at 8:30 p.m. with the 4th Annual Riverwalk Lantern Parade. Led by Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, the parade snakes from Water Works Park to Curtis Hixon Park in a mile-long stream of light. Lantern-making workshops, origami booths, and a haiku wall provide whimsical pre-parade activities from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
For those eager to create early, Armature Works hosts lantern workshops on April 15, 23, and 28, at $40 per person ($30 benefiting Friends of the Tampa Riverwalk).
VIP: Velvet Ropes and Front-Row Feels
For those who like their festivals with a little extra glitter, the VIP tent awaits. Hosted by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, JW Marriott, Tampa Marriott Water Street, and Ashley, the VIP experience offers complimentary drinks, light bites, and front-row access to headliners. Discounted tickets are $95 (Friday) and $120 (Saturday) through May 1. Add $5 if you’re fashionably late.
A Celebration Not to Be Missed
The 9th Annual Tampa Riverfest isn’t just a festival—it’s a living, breathing celebration of Tampa’s soul. With music that moves you, food that fills you, and lights that guide your way, Riverfest offers a break from the everyday and a window into something magical. So mark your calendars. Let the city sing. And remember—Sister Hazel is waiting.
Will you be watching from the crowd when “All for You” echoes down the river, or will you miss the moment when Tampa glows brighter than ever?
Are you on social media? Check out our profile for more local news! Follow @TampaLatest for up-to-the-minute updates in Tampa, Florida.
