If every week feels mundane, look no further than our top picks of things to do this week in Tampa Bay to help break up the weekdays! From crafty workshops to fitness, theater shows, concerts, community events, and markets, there's so much to do in the area.
Gasparilla officially begins at the end of the month, and you can find our ultimate parade guide here. We also have information on the Gasparilla Music Festival, the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, and the Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic.
<div id="c3be0912bb716eee4ca644c1dfc4ecde4"></div>Valentine's Day is also coming up on Saturday, February 14! The last Saturday Valentine's Day was in 2015, so you definitely don't want to sleep on the opportunity for an entire day full of love with your sweetheart!
You can check out some of the great Valentine's Day Events, spas, flower shops, wine bars, and boutique hotels if you're looking for a little staycation!
Featured Events
Tampa Bay Rodeo’s Bull Bash & Country Music Festival
- Date: January 16-17, 2026, gates at 4:30 p.m.
- Location: Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
Celebrate America’s 250th at Tampa Bay Rodeo’s Bull Bash & Country Music Festival on January 16-17 at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. Enjoy two nights of high-energy bull riding and live performances by Justin Moore (1/16), Trace Adkins (1/17) and special guest Lee Greenwood (both nights). The event honors the military and recognizes The Wounded Warrior Project. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. – arrive early for great food, cold beer and a ride on the mechanical bull. Tickets and information available at tamparodeo.com.
2026 Florida State Fair
- Dates: February 5-16
- Weekday Times: Monday – Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Weekend Times: Friday – Sunday & President’s Day. from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Location: 4800 US Hwy. 301 North, Tampa FL 33610
Celebrate America at the Florida State Fair—America’s Sunniest Celebration—shining bright February 5–16 in Tampa! Enjoy 12 days of rides, classic fair food, live entertainment, creative competitions, agricultural showcases, and hands-on exhibits that highlight Florida’s talent and traditions. With red, white, and blue moments, photoworthy spots, and fun for every age and vibe, it’s the perfect place to soak up the sunshine and celebrate it all.
MOSI Science After Dark: The Science of Love
- Date: Friday, February 6, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
- Location: MOSI
Science After Dark is the ultimate adults-only event where you can enjoy an exciting night out while exploring the wonders of science! February's theme is “The Science of Love,” perfect for an early Valentine's Day date!
Sip on a curated selection of beer and wine samples and indulge in a variety of delicious appetizers throughout the event. Science After Dark offers a range of hands-on science experiments that let you dive into the exciting world of discovery!
2026 Florida Strawberry Festival
- Dates: February 26 through March 8
- Location: 303 BerryFest Place, Plant City, FL
The Florida Strawberry Festival is an 11-day community event celebrating the strawberry harvest of Eastern Hillsborough County. Each year, over 600,000 visitors enjoy the Festival’s headline entertainment, youth livestock shows, exhibits of commerce, and, of course, its strawberry shortcake.
The 2026 Florida Strawberry Festival, where we’re “Still Growing,” will take place February 26 – March 8 in For more information, visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com, Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, and TikTok. #berryfest26
Tampa Bay Events Things to Do This Week January 12 – January 18, 2026
MOSI: SkyWatch
- Date: Select Fridays now through March 6, 2026
- Location: MOSI
Join MOSI astronomers for our recurring evening stargazing event, SkyWatch! This event features telescope viewing under the stars as well as space-themed demos.
Chat with one of their expert astronomers as they bring the galaxy into view with telescopes set up from the ground level of our outdoor Science Park, all the way up to the top of the MOSI Dome. This event is open to all ages.
Registration is required as space is limited.
Blood, Sweat & Tears
- Dates: Monday-Friday, January 12-16, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
- Location: Busch Gardens' Stanleyville Theater
With varying iterations and multiple members throughout the years, Blood, Sweat & Tears has encompassed a wide range of styles, including rock, pop, and R7B/soul. Some of the recognizable songs are “You've Made Me So Very Happy,” “I Love You More Than You'll Ever Know,” and “Spinning Wheel.”
Yuengling draft Haus Night Market
- Date: Friday, January 16, 6 p.m.
- Location: Yuengling Tampa
Join Yuengling Draft Haus for a spirited Night Market in the courtyard area with more than 60 local vendors, great eats, and Yuengling pours!
Tampa Bay Rodeo’s Bull Bash & Country Music Festival
- Date: January 16-17, 2026, gates at 4:30 p.m.
- Location: Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
Celebrate America’s 250th at Tampa Bay Rodeo’s Bull Bash & Country Music Festival on January 16-17 at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. Enjoy two nights of high-energy bull riding and live performances by Justin Moore (1/16), Trace Adkins (1/17) and special guest Lee Greenwood (both nights). The event honors the military and recognizes The Wounded Warrior Project. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. – arrive early for great food, cold beer and a ride on the mechanical bull. Tickets and information available at tamparodeo.com.
Blue Man Group
- Date: January 16-18
- Location: Straz Center
Don't miss the Blue Man Group featuring art, music, comedy, and non-verbal communication for an astounding performance!
Village People
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
- Location: Busch Gardens' Stanleyville Theater
It's fun to stay at the Y.M.C.A.! You know Village People, even if you don't recall any of their song names, you know the catchy tune.
Arguably, “Y.M.C.A.” is one of their most iconic, who doesn't remember dancing to that song?! You may also know a few of their other songs, like “Macho Man,” “Go West,” and “Can't Stop The Music.”
Bored Teachers: Is It Friday Yet? Comedy Tour 2026
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026
- Location: Tampa Theatre
The funniest teacher-comedians on the planet, Bored Teachers are back with brand-new material, bigger laughs, and a fresh round of classroom-inspired chaos. This is a must-see comedy event that every teacher can't afford to miss!
MLK, Jr. Celebration in Dunedin
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Enjoy a free breakfast at Dunedin Rec. Center while listening to keynote speakers, the Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church choir, and readings of the winning student essays about diversity. Then, march to Pioneer Park for live entertainment celebrating the life and works of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
This year’s keynote speaker is affiliated with Dunedin Cares Community Food Pantry and we will be accepting donations at the event.
Hello Kitty Cafe Truck Tampa Appearance
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Location: 250 Westshore Plaza, Tampa
Hello Kitty Cafe Truck
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Location: WestShore Plaza
The Hello Kitty Cafe Truck is returning to WestShore Plaza! Come say hello near H&M and pick up some super cute treats and merch, while supplies last!
Rock The Bat — Dinner Dance Party in Tampa
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 8:30 p.m.
- Location: Yacht Starship
Looking for a fun night out in Tampa with live music, dancing, and great views? This high-energy dinner cruise combines a live DJ spinning crowd-favorite hits, a delicious onboard buffet, and an open house bar as you cruise through Tampa Bay!
The Market
- Date: Sunday, January 18, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Location: 971 Water St.
Discover your favorite local vendors at The Market, featuring more than 60 booths offering fresh local produce, delicious eats, and handcrafted goods!
In Memoriam: This Is Spinal Tap (1984)
- Date: Sunday, January 18, 3 p.m.
- Location: Tampa Theatre
Join Tampa Theatre and our friends at Sun-Ray Cinema, Green Light Cinema, and The Beach Theatre to celebrate Rob Reiner: a true artist who championed the magic of the movies with one classic after another!
The Graveyard Cabaret
- Date: Sunday, January 18, 7 p.m.-11 p.m.
- Location: SpookEasy Lounge
The Graveyard Cabaret is a mesmerizing Variety and Burlesque Show filled with laughter, tantalizing performances, stunning wit, captivating live music, mind-blowing theatrics, and daring sideshow acts!
Next Week Tampa Events January 19 – January 25, 2026
Next Monday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and there are plenty of celebrations to honor is life and legacy around Tampa Bay! There is also under one month until Valentine's Day, so if you're still in search of great plans, check out our comprehensive Valentine's Day guide for dinners, events, flowers, and more!
41st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Festival in Plant City
- Dates: January 16-19, 2026
This festival honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. begins with an opening ceremony on January 16, at 11:30 a.m. Then, on January 17, the MLK Expo begins at 10 am, with a parade that marches along a 1.4-mile route featuring bands, local leaders, and more! The parade starts at Wheeler and MLK Blvd. and continues on to end at the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center. On the 17th there will also be a Dumrline Battle of the Bands, and live entertainment for a full day of remembrance.
On Sunday, January 18, there will be an MLK Leadership Breakfast at 7:30 am at the Trinkle Center HCC Plant City Campus, followed by a memorial service on Monday, January 19.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration in Clearwater
- Date: Monday, January 19, 2026, from 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
The city of Clearwater and the NAACP Clearwater Upper Pinellas County Branch present the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration on Monday, Jan. 19, at the North Greenwood Recreation Center, 900 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. The celebration begins with breakfast from 8 am-9 am, and continues with the programming and speakers from 9 am-11 am. The march will be immediately after the conclusion of programming.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service Event in Tampa
- Date: Monday, January 19, 2026, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Feeding Tampa Bay will open its doors, and our hearts, to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through a powerful day of service with meal repackaging, produce packing, sorting, food service, and more at the Causeway Center in Tampa and the Feeding Pinellas Empowerment Center in St. Pete. Together, we proved what can happen when our community comes together for good!
Pablo Cruise and Their Hit Songs
- Dates: Monday-Friday, January 19-23, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
- Location: Busch Gardens' Stanleyville Theater
Pop/rock band Pablo Cruise was formed in 1973 with one of their last studio albums released in 1985; however, amidst the 202 COVID pandemic, the band released its first single in 40 years! Some of their popular songs include “Love Will Find A Way,” Whatcha Gonna Do?” and “Cool Love.”
Martin Luther King Day Parade in Tampa
- Date: Monday, January 19, 2026, at 12 p.m.
This fun and exciting family-friendly event, themed “Courage is Contagious,” will celebrate the birth of one of our greatest American heroes, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Beginning at noon at Cuscaden Park, the parade will include floats, marching bands, equestrian groups, and decorated vehicles of all types! The parade will also feature the President of the Tampa Housing Authority, Grand Marshal Jerome Ryans. The parade ends at N 22nd Street and E Osborne Ave.
Arts Legacy Remix: Eighth Annual MLK Jr. Commemoration
- Date: Monday, January 19, 2026, 7:30 p.m.
The Straz Center is set to remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a commemoration that amplifies the commitment to manifest his dream. Join the Straz Center for an evening of gospel music, the powerful writings of Dr. King, and young voices sharing their hopes and vision for 2026.
Bear Grillz + Dion Timmer + USAYBFLOW
- Date: Friday, January 23, 10 p.m.
- Location: The RITZ Ybor
In Memoriam: The Princess Bride (1987)
- Date: Tuesday, January 20, 7 p.m.
- Location: Tampa Theatre
Join Tampa Theatre and our friends at Sun-Ray Cinema, Green Light Cinema, and The Beach Theatre to celebrate Rob Reiner: a true artist who championed the magic of the movies!
Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise
- Date: Friday, January 23, 7:30 p.m.
- Location: 603 Channelside Dr.
Immerse yourself in an evening of intrigue, suspense, and delicious dining as you set sail on a journey where murder is on the menu, and everyone is a suspect!
Gasparilla Children's Parade
- Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
- Location: Bayshore Blvd., Tampa
This follows a shorter route along Bayshore Blvd than the parade during the Gasparilla Pirate Fest. It steps off at Bayshore and Bay to Bay and ends around the area of Edison Ave.
Looking Ahead, January 26, and beyond
Gasparilla festivities continue this week, so be sure to check out all of our Gasparilla insider tips and information to safely and successfully party with the pirates!
Artimus Pyle Band
- Dates: Monday-Friday, January 26-30, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
- Location: Busch Gardens' Stanleyville Theater
Rock enthusiasts are going to want to listen in for this one! As the last surviving member of Lynyrd Skynyrd, Artimus Pyle and his band will be performing all of Hall of Fame Inductee Lynyrd Skynyrd's greatest hits. Some of their most notable records include “Free Bird,” “Simple Man,” and Sweet Home Alabama.”
Bert Kreischer: Permission to Party
- Date: Friday, January 30, 7 p.m.
- Location: Benchmark International Arena
Bert Kreischer is bringing laughs to Tampa with his Permission to Party tour!
Gasparilla 2026
- Date: January 31, 2026
- Location: Bayshore Boulevard
One of Tampa's biggest celebrations is back for 2026! Bring your krewe in your best pirate attire for a swashbuckling good time.
Fresh Market
- Date: Sunday, February 1, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Location: 1602 W Snow Ave.
Shop the Fresh Market at Hyde Park Village featuring more than 80 local vendors, including produce, handcrafted goods, plants, and more! While you shop and stroll, enjoy live music by Gasparilla Music in Village Circle.
Tampa Theatre Black Love Classics Series
Dates: February 1, 8, 15, and 22, 2026
Location: Tampa Theatre
Head to Tampa Theatre with your significant other to enjoy a film from their Black Love Classics Series. This series was created in collaboration with the City of Tampa’s Community Engagement & Partnerships Department to celebrate the intersection of Valentine’s Day and Black History Month with big-screen stories of romance as told by Black filmmakers and diverse casts.
Movie Lineup:
If Beale Street Could Talk – Sunday, February 1, 2026, 3 p.m.
The Photograph – Sunday, February 8, 2026, 3 p.m.
Boomerang – Sunday, February 15, 2026, 3 p.m.
Carmen Jones – Sunday, February 22, 3 p.m.
The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra
- Dates: Monday-Friday, February 2-6, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
- Location: Busch Gardens' Stanleyville Theater
Songs that came from Tommy Dorsey are “Manhattan Serenade,” “Sleepy Lagoon,” and “Swanee River.”
Florida State Fair
- Date: Feb 5-16, 2026
- Location: Florida State Fairgrounds
Don't miss out on all the fun at the Florida State Fair with yummy fair food, animals, games, and of course, rides!
Ongoing Things to Do in Tampa Bay
Jukebox Bingo
- Date: Every Monday, 6:30 p.m.
- Location: Keel Farms, Plant City
Crank up the tunes and don't forget to yell BINGO! Enjoy jukebox bingo presented by Timeless Entertainment with prizes for the Bingo winners.
TASTING TUESDAYS at J.W. Marriott Clearwater Beach
- Date: Every Tuesday, at 5 p.m.
- Location: J.W. Marriott Clearwater Beach Lobby Bar: 691 S Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767
Spice up your week with Tasting Tuesday! Each week, explore a rotating selection of bourbon, tequila, or rum flights—perfectly curated to expand your palate. Which spirit will you choose this time?
Line Dancing with Simone
- Date: Every 1st and 4th Wednesday of the month
- Location: 6034 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel
Get your boots on for Line Dancing with Simone. Lessons start at 7:00, followed by dancing! Arrive early for dinner and Boneless Wing Specials.
Wine Wednesdays
- Date: Every Wednesday
- Location: The Library
Enjoy half price on all bottles under $110!
Trivia Night at CHeeky's
- Date: Every Thursday, 7 p.m.-9 p.m.
- Location: 2823 Central Ave, St. Pete
Join in on a family-friendly trivia night with four rounds, including music, pop culture, history, and more! Prizes are given for first, second, and third place, and a grand prize will be given at the end of the eight-week season.
Happy Hour Sunset Paddle
- Date: Every Friday
- Location: Urban Kai, Armature Works
Enjoy special pricing for a sunset paddleboard or kayak!
INest in Funk | All vynl rare & classic grooves dj set by aj hall
- Date: Recurring every third Friday of the month for 2025, 8 p.m.
- Location: Hotel Haya's Flor Fina restaurant and lounge, 1412 E 7th Ave., Tampa
Bring it back to the old-school days with AJ Hall's Finest in Funk Rare & Classic Grooves DJ setlist at Flor Fina located in Hotel Haya.
Hello Sunset
- Date: Recurring every Saturday from 6 p.m. to 2 .a.m.
- Location: Lower Deck, Tampa
Dance the night away every Saturday with awesome DJs, a stunning waterfront view, and delicious drinks!
Live Music Brunch
- Date: Every Sunday
- Location: The Library
happy hour at J.W. Marriott clearwater beach
- Date: Sunday – Thursday, from 4 p.m.-6 p.m.
- Location: J.W. Marriott Clearwater Beach Lobby Bar: 691 S Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767
Unwind at our luxurious Lobby Bar at the JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa during our weekly Happy Hour, Sunday through Thursday from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Enjoy a variety of featured cocktails each evening, including Monday’s classic Gin & Tonic, Tuesday’s refreshing Rum & Coke, Wednesday’s crisp Vodka Soda, and Thursday’s vibrant Ranch Water. Plus, savor $5 domestic beers and $8 house wines, with a delightful selection of bar bites available to complement your drinks. No need to stick to just one—our full cocktail menu is always at your fingertips. Join us for a perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence!
SUNSET YOGA AT ST. PETE PIER
- Date: Occurs monthly on the first Wednesday of the month, 7 p.m.
- Location: 600 2nd Ave NE St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Unwind with Sunset Yoga at the St. Pete Pier, hosted by The Body Electric Yoga Company. It's a relaxing, all-levels class held under the Bending Arc sculpture with views of the bay as the sun sets. Free to join, just bring your mat!
The Market at Water Street Tampa
- Date: Recurring every third Sunday of the month
- Location: Water Street Tampa
Peruse more than 60 local vendors offering fresh produce, delicious snacks, and handcrafted or artisan goods!
SAVE THE DATE FOR THESE GREAT EVENTS!
Science After Dark – The Science of Love
- Date: Friday, February 6, 2026, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
- Location: MOSI – Museum of Science & Industry
Kick off your MOSI adventure with Science After Dark, the ultimate adults-only event that brings together science, entertainment, and socializing in one unforgettable evening. Enjoy food and drink samples, hands-on activities, Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream, and more!
Latitude 28 Valentine's Day Dinner
- Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026
- Location: 691 S Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater
- Cost: $140 per person
Celebrate Valentine's Day at Latitude 28 with your love, featuring the finest ingredients, while basking in the breathtaking views of the shimmering ocean! The menu consists of Caviar Bellini, your choice of Lobster Bisque or Passion Fruit Pork Belly as an appetizer, and your choice of entree, such as Dry Aged New York Strip, Amber Jack, or Short Rib. Finish off the evening with the Delicious Scan Me Rose dessert with rose & cardamom crema, sugar cookie, candied pistachios, and nitro magic.
Revisiting Creedence
- Dates: Monday-Friday, February 9-13, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
- Location: Busch Gardens' Stanleyville Theater
Revisiting Creedence features some of the original touring members for Creedence Clearwater.
Be Mine 2026: A Million Dreams
- Date: Thursday, February 12, 6 p.m.
- Location: Palma Ceia Golf and Country Club
The Heart Gallery of Tampa invites you to a night of wonder, whimsy, and heartwarming magic at Be Mine 2026: A Million Dreams a signature event that celebrates the joy of families found and the hope of those yet to come! All proceeds benefit Heart Gallery of Tampa children who are waiting to be adopted in the foster care system.
Rascal Flatts: Life Is A Highway Tour
- Date: Friday, February 13, 7 p.m.
- Location: Benchmark International Arena
The Rascal Flatts are coming to Tampa for their iconic Life Is A Highway Tour!
Arts Legacy REMIX: A Global Celebration of Love
- Date: Friday, February 13, 2026, 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Straz Center
Enjoy the many artistic threads in the rich and diverse tapestry of Tampa Bay as the Straz Center celebrates love across cultures. The evening will be a presentation and celebration of the multi-layered blends of art, entertainment, and inspiration that make Tampa Bay unique.
& Juliet
- Date: February 13-15, 2026, various times
- Location: Straz Center
This hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. & Juliet asks: what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love!
Hotel California
- Date: Friday, February 13, 2026, 8 p.m.
- Location: Nancy & David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre
Hotel California – The Original Eagles Tribute makes its Clearwater debut at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre!
INZO
- Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026, 5 p.m.
- Location The BayCare Sound
INZO, a dynamic electronic artist based in Denver, is bringing the Mirrorverse Tour to The BayCare Sound with special guests TRUTH, Late Night Radio, Zen Selekta, and Blookah!
Samara Joy
- Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026, 7:30 p.m.
- Location: The Straz Center
Five-time Grammy® winner Samara Joy is coming to the Straz Center! Her 2021 debut album had listeners mentioning her in the same breath as Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan.
Magic Moments
- Dates: Monday-Friday, 16-20, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
- Location: Busch Gardens' Stanleyville Theater
Performing the songs of The Temptations, The Four Tops, The Platters, and The Drifters, you can expect hits like “My Girl,” “This Magic Moment,” and “I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)” from Magic Moments.
Cigar City Tattoo Fest
- Dates: February 20-22
- Location: The Cuban Club
The Cigar City Tattoo Fest is back again, with over 100 of the top tattoo artists from around the world, bringing the best in tattooing to historic Ybor City!
79th Annual Fiesta Day
- Date: Saturday, February 21, 11 a.m.
- Location: Ybor City 7th Ave.
Ybor Chamber’s Fiesta Day is a family-friendly, FREE “street festival” celebration that commemorates the Cuban, Italian, Spanish, Jewish, and German immigrants who settled in Ybor City in the late 1800’s!
Florida Strawberry Festival
- Date: February 26-March 8, 2026
- Location: Plant City, FL