TAMPA, Fla. (BLOOM) – Multiple festivals and large-scale events are expected to draw thousands of visitors to Tampa Bay this weekend, kicking off Friday, May 2. Local officials are urging drivers to plan ahead and use alternative transportation as road closures and traffic delays are anticipated.
Here’s a look at the top events happening this weekend across Tampa, St. Petersburg, and beyond:
Country Thunder Florida
When: Friday, May 2 – Sunday, May 4
Where: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Details: This three-day music festival is the area’s largest weekend event, drawing an estimated 35,000 attendees. Expect performances by Jason Aldean, Morgan Wallen, and Ashley McBryde. Gates open around noon daily, and traffic near the stadium will be heavy with law enforcement directing vehicles.
Tampa Riverfest
When: Friday, May 2 – Saturday, May 3
Where: Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Tampa
Cost: Free
Details: This two-day celebration along the Tampa Riverwalk features Taste of Riverwalk, TacoFest, a wiener dog derby, yoga in the park, live music, and water ski shows. Nearly 10,000 people are expected to attend, with the largest crowds anticipated Saturday.
Derby at The Pier
When: Saturday, May 3, 3–9 p.m.
Where: Spa Beach Park, St. Pete Pier
Cost: Tickets required
Details: The 13 Ugly Men Foundation’s annual Derby Day celebration is one of the Bay Area’s premier social events. Dress in your best Kentucky Derby attire and enjoy live music, food trucks, cocktails, and a giant screen showing the race. Proceeds benefit local charities.
BBQ Love Fest
When: Saturday, May 3, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: Perry Harvey Sr. Park, Tampa
Cost: Free to attend; food available for purchase
Details: Expect savory competition barbecue, craft beer, and local vendors at this daylong celebration of pitmaster culture.
Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival
When: Friday through Sunday
Where: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Cost: Included with admission
Details: Enjoy global cuisine and wine pairings throughout the park, plus concerts including the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers on Saturday and Sunday.
2 Bears 5K
When: Sunday, May 4, 7:30 a.m.
Where: Raymond James Stadium
Cost: Registration required for participants
Details: The 5K run is contained within stadium grounds but will add to early-morning congestion. Participants and spectators are expected to arrive early.
Tampa Bay Symphony at the Straz
When: Sunday, May 4, 2 p.m.
Where: Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Cost: Ticket prices vary
Details: The Tampa Bay Symphony presents a selection of orchestral works by renowned composers in a downtown matinee performance.
9D Breathwork Healing Journey
When: Saturday, May 3, 11:30 a.m.
Where: Philippe Park, Safety Harbor
Cost: Free
Details: A unique outdoor session combining immersive breathwork and sound therapy to relieve stress and anxiety.
SOF Week Move-In Begins
When: Sunday, May 4
Where: Tampa Convention Center
Details: SOF Week begins Monday, May 5, but move-in activity will impact downtown traffic Sunday. Road and lane closures are expected near the Convention Center, S. Franklin Street, and Water Street.
Getting Around
To help alleviate traffic, the City of Tampa’s Mobility Department encourages the use of free and low-cost transit options including the TECO Streetcar, DASH service, rentable scooters, and HART buses. Motorists should allow extra travel time and check local traffic updates before heading out.
For the latest road closure information, visit Tampa.gov/road-closures.
