Tampa’s 2025 festival lineup has arrived, unveiling 12 incredible festivals designed to keep both locals and visitors engaged from winter through spring. From pirate parades to foodie extravaganzas, the city promises an action-packed agenda for everyone to enjoy.
Kick-Off the New Year with Gasparilla
Launching the season in spectacular style, the legendary Gasparilla Festival takes over Bayshore Boulevard on Jan. 25, featuring pirates storming the area in a lively parade that’s been a city tradition since 1904. According to Daniel Carpenter of the Henry B. Plant Museum, “the event originally began as a May Day celebration before evolving into the spectacle we know today.”
For younger enthusiasts, the Children’s Gasparilla on Jan. 18 offers a kid-friendly celebration, complete with bike races, airshows, and a grand fireworks finale to close out the night.
February Brings Music, Lights, and Flavor
February is a jam-packed month, hosting exhilarating events that celebrate music, culture, and amazing food:
- Florida State Fair (Feb. 6–17): Indulge in thrilling carnival rides, marvel at unique exhibits, and savor classic fair food along US Hwy. 301 N.
- Knight Parade (Feb. 8): Ybor City transforms into a spectacle of bright lights, colorful floats, and dynamic nightlife.
- Gasparilla Music Festival (Feb. 14–16): Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park erupts with live music from local and national artists, creating an unforgettable vibe.
- Taco Festival (Feb. 22): Al Lopez Park becomes a taco paradise, hosting 30+ vendors dedicated to serving their best creations.
March Showcases Arts, Films, and Pride
March ushers in a blend of artistic expression, cinematic wonders, and community festivities. The month starts with the Festival of the Arts, spotlighting local artists and food trucks during the first weekend. Toward the end of March, Tampa invites you to the River O’ Green Festival (Date TBD) for St. Patrick’s Day fun as the Hillsborough River is dyed green. Film enthusiasts will love the Gasparilla International Film Festival (March 27–30), while the vibrant Tampa Pride (March 29) honors diversity, inclusion, and unity on 15th Street.
April & May: Food, Wine, and Riverfront Fun
Spring delivers a food lover’s haven with the Tampa Bay Wine and Food Festival (April 8–12), hosted by celebrity chef Robert Irvine. This culinary affair includes six mouthwatering experiences, culminating in the thrilling Chef Showdown. Wrapping up the festivities, Riverfest (May 2–3) livens the Tampa Riverwalk with live music, delicious vendors, and whimsical floating balloons that add a burst of color to the waterfront.
Don’t Miss Out
From iconic parades to culinary celebrations, this year’s schedule has it all. Mark your calendars to experience music, art, and gastronomic wonders as Tampa comes to life. Plan your year of fun now and explore more at Visit Tampa Bay for an unforgettable 2025.
Celebrate with Tampa’s 2025 festival lineup featuring parades, food fests, and family-friendly fun from winter to spring. Don’t miss these unforgettable events!
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