Welcome back to your weekly guide to the best things to do in Tampa Bay! The new decade is here with new and better events than ever before. Follow us on Instagram: @stufftodointampabay to really stay in the loop. There are currently TWO giveaways going on, on our IG that you don’t want to miss!
This weekend, Tampa Bay has everything from family-friendly fun to food festivals. Speaking of food, this first event in St. Pete is BACON us crazy!
1. The 4th Annual St. Pete Beer and Bacon Festival | 21+
The St. Pete Beer & Bacon Festival is back for its fourth year in a row! Come hungry because there are going to be 50+ bacon dishes from 20+ food vendors. We also recommend coming thirsty because there will be unlimited sampling of 75+ craft beers–and in case beer isn’t your thing, you can sample from 12+ craft cocktails and spirits.
Dogs are allowed AND a portion of the proceeds go to benefit Pet Pal Animal Shelter, making this the top thing to do in Tampa Bay this weekend.
General Admission does not include food or drinks so we suggest purchasing the Grand Sampling Admission option!
Event Details
🗓 JAN 18 | 12PM–7PM
📍 Vinoy Park
2. Gasparilla Children's Extravaganza
Ahoy mateys! ARRRGH you ready for Gasparilla? We just found the perfect thing to do in Tampa Bay for the kids this weekend. Bring your little pirates out for some family fun at the Gasparilla Children’s parade on Saturday.
In past years, the Children’s Gasparilla Parade included over 100 units, including krewes, marching bands, dance units, primary and secondary school organizations, community organizations as well as local neighborhood associations.
To purchase reserved seating for the Children’s Gasparilla Parade, visit Gasparilla Treasures™ and select Tickets.
Event Details
🗓 JAN 18 | 4PM–7PM
📍 Bayshore Boulevard
Back for its 20th anniversary, the Black Heritage Music Fest is a 2-day, family-friendly celebration in Tampa Bay that offers something for everyone. In addition to national and local entertainment, it also includes health and wellness events, educational opportunities, African-inspired goods, and delicious food.
Park on the street if possible, as most street parking in downtown Tampa is free!
Event Details
🗓 JAN 18 & 19 | 1PM–6PM
📍 Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
4. Tampa Riverwalk Fit Festival
Experience the healthiest thing to do in Tampa Bay this weekend! The Tampa Riverwalk Fit Festival has it all from flavorful food trucks, local artisan foods, diverse sports, healthy choices, free wellness screenings, eco–friendly, music, arts, and more!
The festival is happening at Water Works Park, so recommend street parking along Highland Street because its free! Or park in downtown where most street parking will also be free and walk there on the Riverwalk.
Event Details
🗓 JAN 19 | 10AM–7PM
📍 Water Works Park
Looking for a free thing to do in Tampa Bay this weekend? Venture down to Sarasota for the 3–day Seafood & Music Festival! Enjoy the freshest seafood along with meat and vegetarian options. In the breaks between performances, explore shopping in a marketplace of fine arts, crafts, and select fine products and food items.
Say hi to the cutest furry friends at the Humane Society of Sarasota County’s “Big Mac” mobile adoption center that will be onsite during the event!
Event Details
🗓 JAN 17 | 4PM–10PM
🗓 JAN 18 | 11AM–10PM
🗓 JAN 19 | 11AM–6PM
📍 J.D. Hamel Park
5 Other Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Weekend!
Onesie Crawl: St. Pete
Sip, Shop & Play
St. Pete Beach Classic
Friday Night Wine Tasting
January Tampa Indie Flea and Green Market
More Things to Do in Tampa Bay
The BIGGEST thing to do in Tampa Bay is almost here y’all! Arrrgh you ready for Gasparilla? Search “Gasparilla” on your UNATION app to discover all the festivities and start planning!
One party we are looking forward to specifically is the 3rd Annual Gasparilla Barrr Crawl with Brunch & Block Party!
Locally curated guides
Here are some awesome guides, from us to you.
Kirsten Nye
Selena Perez
Todd Grasley