Spring has sprung, Tampa! It’s finally time to ditch that lingering winter lethargy (because let’s be real, it wasn’t that cold anyway) and embrace the sunshine, festivals, and all the quirky events that make Tampa Bay the best place to be in the spring. Ready to swap the couch for some epic adventures? Make the most of this vibrant spring scene with these 12 unmissable things to do in Tampa:
1. USF Spring Plant Festival
Calling all plant peeps! USF’s Spring Plant Fest is back from April 13-14, turning the campus into a jungle (well, almost). Forget the boring stuff at Home Depot – find unique plants, chat with plant gurus, and score some killer local crafts. Workshops? Yep. Food trucks? Of course. Basically, everything you need to fuel your inner plant parent and unleash your green thumb. Free entry for USF students, faculty, and staff with their ID, or it’s just $10 for everyone else.
2. Dalí & The Impressionists Exhibition
Check out the cool connections between different art styles at The Dalí Museum! Think melting clocks meet water lilies – the perfect 2-for-1 combo! At “Dalí & the Impressionists: Monet, Renoir, Degas & More” exhibition, you can see 18 of Dalí’s early works mixed with 22 French Impressionist paintings from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. The exhibition will be up until April 28, and it’s included with your museum ticket, so make sure to also visit the awesome permanent collection of Dalí’s masterpieces.
3. Candlelight Spring
Spring wouldn’t be spring without flowers, and Candlelight isn’t messing around! This season, they’re throwing a flower-filled concert series called Candlelight Spring. Think flickering candles, tons of blooms, and amazing music in some of Tampa’s most iconic venues, like Centro Asturiano de Tampa. Dreamy, isn’t it? Well, don’t miss out and grab your tickets before they’re gone faster than a springtime breeze!
4. Tampa Theatre
Step back in time and experience the grandeur of movie-going at the historic Tampa Theatre. This architectural gem, built in 1926, isn’t just a place to watch movies – it’s an experience. Catch a mix of classics like The Iron Giant on April 7 or Star Wars Saga on May 4. No matter your taste, we are sure there’s a show for you. Check out the latest listings here!
5. Dinning in the Dark
Ditch the phone, embrace the unknown at Dining in the Dark. Experience a multi-course meal in complete darkness at Centre Club. Heighten your senses of taste and smell as you navigate your meal by touch and conversation. This is truly unique dining experience that will challenge your perceptions.
6. Fresh Market at Wiregrass
Running low on produce? Freshen up your kitchen at the Fresh Market at Wiregrass! Every first and third Saturday of the month, support around 50 local farmers and artisans while picking up fresh produce, baked goods, and unique finds. From seasonal fruits and veggies to beautiful flower bouquets and local salsas, this market has something for everyone. It’s the perfect way to spend a delightful Saturday morning.
7. Keel Farms Blueberry Festival
Get ready for some berry-good fun at the Keel Farms Blueberry Festival. Mark your calendars for several weekends this spring: March 30, April 6-7, 13-14, and 20-21. There will be everything blueberry you can imagine, from delicious treats to fun activities for the whole family. Enjoy live music, browse local crafts, and let the kids loose in the petting zoo and bounce houses. The best part? Admission to the festival is completely free.
8. Temple Terrace Craft Brewfest
Get a taste of some awesome brews at the Temple Terrace Craft Brewfest. On April 13, hang out with local brewers, sip on over 100 beers from 35+ different brewers, and groove to the lively music of The Black Velvet Band – a traditional Irish drinking band. It’s your shot to find your next go-to brew and show some love to the local beer scene. For just $45, you’ll snag entry to the festival plus a cool-tasting glass to take home. If you’re the designated driver, no worries – you can grab a ticket for just $25 and still join in on the fun.
9. CITY: Fashion + Art + Culture featuring Carolina Herrera
Elevate your spring plans with the most anticipated fashion event in Tampa, CITY: Fashion + Art + Culture. This year, the Tampa Museum of Art, in collaboration with Saks Fifth Avenue, shines a spotlight on the iconic designs of Carolina Herrera. On April 20th, Tampa transforms into a premier runway to showcase Carolina Herrera’s latest collection. The impressive $500 ticket to the event includes seating for the Carolina Herrera runway show, hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, desserts, and an after-party.
10. Clue
Was it with a knife? Maybe it was Mrs. Peacock? In the study? The iconic board game Clue comes to life in a one-of-a-kind play at the Straz Center. From May 28th to June 2nd, you can try to solve this murder mystery alongside your friends and family and put your detective skills to the test. Witness the elaborate costumes, the witty dialogue, and the surprising twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. Will you be the one to crack the case? Tickets start at $34.75, with sign language interpretation and audio-described shows available.