Bruno Mars with RAYE and DJ Pee .Wee

Bruno Mars Brings His Signature Showmanship to Raymond James Stadium

Bruno Mars returns to Tampa on Saturday, September 12th, 2026, bringing his electrifying stage presence to Raymond James Stadium. With British sensation RAYE opening and DJ Pee .Wee setting the tone, this 7:00 PM show promises the kind of high-energy performance that's made Mars one of pop music's most reliable live acts. Raymond James Stadium transforms from football fortress to concert venue, offering that massive-stage spectacle where Mars's choreography and band truly shine.

What to Expect:

Raymond James Stadium seats over 65,000, creating an atmosphere where the crowd energy becomes part of the show itself. Mars rarely phones it in—expect tight choreography, live instrumentation, and a setlist that spans his catalog from early hits to newer material. RAYE's opening set adds a contemporary R&B flavor that complements the headliner perfectly, while DJ Pee .Wee keeps the energy flowing between acts.

Insider Tips:

- Gates typically open 90 minutes before showtime, giving early arrivals a chance to settle in and catch the full opening acts
- Stadium concessions get slammed during set breaks—grab food during RAYE's set if avoiding lines matters more than catching every opener
- Lower bowl seats offer better sightlines for choreography, while upper decks provide that full-stage perspective for lighting and production elements
- September in Tampa means heat and humidity—bring sunscreen for daytime tailgating and expect warm conditions even after sunset
- The stadium's clear bag policy is strictly enforced, so plan accordingly or face the choice between tossing items or missing the show
- Rideshare pickup after major concerts turns chaotic—consider walking a few blocks away from the stadium to catch your ride

Getting There:

Raymond James Stadium sits just off Dale Mabry Highway, making it accessible from multiple directions but also creating significant traffic on event nights. Lot 15 and Lot 14 along Steinbrenner Drive fill early but offer relatively quick exits if leaving before the encore. Lot 10 and Lot 11 on North Hale Avenue provide additional options, though they're slightly farther from the main entrances. Public transit connects through bus stops along Himes Avenue and Tampa Bay Boulevard, with stops at Himes Avenue @ Ohio Avenue and Tampa Bay Boulevard @ Dale Mabry Highway both within a 10-minute walk of the stadium. Dale Mabry Highway runs north-south as the main artery, while Tampa Bay Boulevard provides east-west access. For those familiar with the area, the stadium sits near where these two major roads intersect.

Local Scene:

The immediate stadium area doesn't overflow with dining options, but a few spots within walking distance handle pre-show meals. Hawks Cay Cafe sits about a five-minute walk away on West Tampa Bay Boulevard for quick bites. Stadium Cafe brings Cuban flavors to the mix, fitting Tampa's food culture and located close enough for a pre-concert stop. Panera Bread offers the predictable sandwich option for those wanting something familiar before the show. Driving north on Dale Mabry opens up more choices—Chili's Grill & Bar sits about a mile away for standard American fare. For something with more character, La Teresita on West Columbus Drive serves authentic Cuban food in a no-frills setting that locals have trusted for decades. Most concert-goers either eat well before arriving or plan for post-show stops elsewhere in Tampa, as the stadium surroundings clear out quickly once events end.