Awesome Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Weekend and Beyond!

It's a busy time of year with local events, fall festivals, and more, and we've got them all on our top picks of things to do this weekend in Tampa Bay. From crafty workshops to fitness, theater shows, concerts, community events, and markets, there's so much to do in the area!

Since we have officially welcomed fall, you can find our great list of Halloween events in the area, as well as adult-only Halloween parties, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate Oktoberfest!

Featured Events

SAVE THE DATE: Science of the Cuban Sandwich

• September 27, from 6-9 p.m.
• MOSI, Tampa

Back by popular demand! Celebrate Tampa’s iconic sandwich at this adults-only night of food, flavor, and fun. Sample inventive Cuban sandwiches, enjoy rum and flan pairings, sip on hand-crafted cocktails, and explore science through hands-on activities. Dance to live music, catch a planetarium show, visit our cigar rolling station and bid in the silent auction. First 50 guests who bring a non-perishable item to donate to ECHO receive a swag bag. Upgrade to General Admission PLUS for exclusive perks and a commemorative cup.

14th Annual Bubbles and Butterflies Gala – A Storybook Soirée

• Saturday, September 27, at 7 p.m.; V.I.P. reception at 6 p.m.
• Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay

A night where every page unlocks hope, this annual Black-Tie optional Gala has been nominated for Best of the Bay for Best Charitable Event. Benefiting Redefining Refuge and the victims of human trafficking in Tampa Bay, you can help turn the page for these children by helping to rewrite their stories from struggle to strength. Tickets include a seated, three-course dinner, premier open bar, a specialty bourbon bar & cigar bar, entertainment, live and silent auctions and more. Individual tickets, sponsorships and tables available.

Tampa Bay Events Things to Do This Week September 8- September 14, 2025

Spooky season is officially here! If you're looking for some SPOOKtacular events this season, check out our Halloween events blog as well as all of the great adults-only Halloween Parties! We also have a great list of Oktoberfest celebrations for all of you beer lovers.

Fourth Annual Safety Harbor Restaurant Week

• September 8-14
• Safety Harbor, FL

With more than 15 local restaurants offering exclusive prix-fixe menus, there’s something to satisfy every palate, enjoy lunch and dinner deals for 7 days! This year’s lineup of restaurants includes: The Brinehouse, The Tides Seafood Market & Provisions, Osteria Pollani, Gigglewaters, The NONA Slice House, Water Oak Grill, The Kitchen, The Pub at Safety Harbor, Screaming Jalapeno, Marker 39, Eggs Up Grill, Whistlestop Grill & Bar, Bar Fly, Burger Monger, Poblano’s Mexican Grill & Bar and more.

Downtown Abbey: The Grand Finale

• September 12-25, various showtimes
• Tampa Theatre

You're cordially invited to join the Tampa Theatre for screenings of Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale! Tampa Theatre members are invited to attend the FREE member appreciation screening on September 12 at 6:15 p.m. with free refreshments!

Amadeus LIVE

• Saturday, September 13, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, September 14, at 2 p.m.
• Mahaffey Theater

Experience the multi-Academy Award® winning 1984 motion picture Amadeus on screen while Mozart’s most celebrated works are performed live in-sync by The Florida Orchestra and a choir.

Next Week Tampa Events September 15- September 22, 2025

Rooster & the Till Guest Chef Series

• Tuesday, September 16
• 6500 N Florida Ave, Tampa

The Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient and Proper House Group concept will hand over its kitchen and bar to Cara Dozier & Hugi Llanos. Guests can expect high-energy takeovers, bold flavors, and cocktails that showcase the warm, approachable spirit Rooster is known for. Reservations are required.

Mid-Autumn Asian Festival

• September 19-21
• Downtown Tampa

Explore global street food, cultural performances, and unique artisan vendors at this ultimate night market experience!

Hillsborough River Coastal Cleanup

• Saturday, September 20, 8 a.m.-11 a.m.
• USF Park

Help clean up Tampa Bay with Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful for the upcoming Hillsborough River Coastal Cleanup! Volunteers are welcome to join the Tampa Riverwalk Cleanup on Saturday, September 20, at USF Park along the Tampa Riverwalk.

High Tea at Madam Puddifoot's

• Saturday, September 20, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
• 1500 W Swann Ave., Tampa

Enjoy a menu of delicate pastries, scones, and tea from porcelain cups. Reservations are required.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium Sloth Meet & Greet

• Saturday, September 20-Sunday, September 21
• Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Guests will have the exclusive opportunity to meet Lima, a two-toed sloth, an armadillo, and a grey parrot! The meet and greet cost is $59.95 per person and includes a hands-on 20-minute session with the animals. Multiple time slots are available.

The Good Peaches

• Saturday, September 20, at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
• Mahaffey Theater

In this thrilling collaboration between The Florida Orchestra, American Stage, and projectALCHEMY Dance Company, The Good Peaches follows a girl's wishes for upheaval … and the aftermath of a wish granted.

Aura Alchemy with Amy Leigh Mercree andJohn Miles

• Saturday, September 21, 3:30 p.m.
• Oxford Echange

Partake in a conversation with holistic health expert, Amy Leigh Mercree and John Miles as they discuss Leigh's book, AURA ALCHEMY.

THE PINK PALM POOL CLUB Day Party

• Sunday, September 22, 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
• 1234 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, Moxy. St,. Petersburg Downtown

Dive into a cool summer at the Pink Palm Pool Club party with sun, music, drinks, dancing, and giveaways!

Author Appearance: Elizabeth Gilbert

• Monday, September 23, 7 p.m.
• Tampa Theatre

Oxford Exchange and Tampa Theatre collaborate for a special evening with author Elizabeth Gilbert, in celebration of the release of her new book, All the Way to the River.

YA by the BAY

• Thursday, September 25, 4 p.m.-8 p.m.
• Tampa Convention Center

This is more than a book festival; it’s a celebration of stories, creativity, and community, featuring more than 40 celebrated authors from across the country, live events, hands-on workshops, a vibrant marketplace, and book signings!

Skywatch at MOSI

• Friday, September 26, 8 p.m.-10 p.m.
• 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 astronomers as they bring the galaxy into view with telescopes.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium Sloth Meet & Greet

• Saturday, September 27-Sunday, September 28
• Clearwater Marine Aquarium

Guests will have the exclusive opportunity to meet Lima, a two-toed sloth, an armadillo, and a grey parrot! The meet and greet cost is $59.95 per person and includes a hands-on 20-minute session with the animals. Multiple time slots are available.

Science of the Cuban Sandwich

• September 27, from 6-9 p.m.
• MOSI, Tampa

Back by popular demand! Celebrate Tampa’s iconic sandwich at this adults-only night of food, flavor, and fun. Sample inventive Cuban sandwiches, enjoy rum and flan pairings, sip on hand-crafted cocktails, and explore science through hands-on activities. Dance to live music, catch a planetarium show, visit our cigar rolling station and bid in the silent auction. First 50 guests who bring a non-perishable item to donate to ECHO receive a swag bag. Upgrade to General Admission PLUS for exclusive perks and a commemorative cup.

Sunday Harvest Market at The Grove

• Sunday, September 28, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Grove at Wesley Chapel

Featuring more than 100 local merchants with a variety of decor, clothing, treats, accessories, jewelry, produce, and more!

Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors

• Sunday, September 28, 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
• Straz Center

Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors is a new comedy everyone can sink their teeth into! Filled with clever wordplay and anything-goes pop culture references, this 90-minute, quick-changing, laugh-out-loud reimagining of the gothic classic is perfect for audiences of all blood types.

Morgan Freeman's Symphonic Blues Experience

• Thursday, September 28, 8 p.m.
• Mahaffey Theater

Step into a world where the deep, resonant tones of Mississippi Delta Blues and cinematic visuals meet the majesty of a symphony orchestra featuring a live appearance and recorded multimedia narration by Morgan Freeman, along with performances by musicians from the Ground Zero Blues Club.

Looking Ahead, September 29, and beyond

Author Talk: Jordan Stephanie Gray and Elise Kova

• Tuesday, September 30, 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
• Oxford Exchange

Stop in at Oxford Exchange for a book launch celebration and in-person conversation with fantasy authors Jordan Stephanie Gray and Elise Kova.

Line Dancing with Simone

• Wednesday, October 1, 7 p.m.-9 p.m.
• 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.

Rock the Park Tampa

• Thursday, October 2, 6:30 p.m.-10 p.m.
• Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Rock the Park Tampa is celebrating its 15th year! Jam out with performances by The Beauvilles, Triangulata, and a special guest!

A Pirate's Halloween

• Friday, October 3
• 33 S Franklin St., Tampa

This October, set sail aboard The Lost Pearl Pirate Ship for a Halloween adventure! The 1.5-hour Halloween pirate cruise blends spooky fun with swashbuckling excitement. Costumes are encouraged for kids AND adults. Activities include Halloween and Pirate Games: Pumpkin Toss, Water Cannon Battles, Mummy Wrap, Spooky Dance Party, and Captain Patchy’s Pumpkin Patch.

Vintage Market Days® Tampa

• October 3 through October, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
• 2508 W Oak Ave., Plant City

Vintage Market Days® is a vintage-inspired, indoor and outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, plants, and more!

Scaradise

• October 3-5, 1 p.m.-6 p.m.
• Florida State Fairgrounds

Florida's horror and pop culture convention is back for all you loves of ghouls, ghosts, and goblins!

Laser Light Show: Taylor Swift

• Friday, October 3, 6:30 p.m.-7:40 p.m., and 8:15 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
• MOSI

Designed for all ages, MOSI's Laser Light Shows have something for everyone. This performance pairs stunning visuals with your favorite soundtracks from Taylor Swift!

Haunted River Tours

• Friday, October 3, 7:15 p.m.
• 333 S Franklin St., Tampa

Get spooky with Pirate Water Taxi for a haunted boat ride!

Jason Aldean Live in Tampa

• Friday, October 3, 7:30 p.m.
• MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

Multiple-time Grammy Award nominee Jason Aldean is coming to Tampa! Get your boots on and sing the night away to his great country tunes.

BEats on the Street

• Saturday, October 4, 3 p.m.-9 p.m.
• Water Street

Known for their sun-soaked indie-funk sound and infectious grooves, the Magic City Hippies are bringing the perfect vibe to Tampa’s ultimate downtown music fest. With over 20 artists across 8 stages, the Water Street neighborhood streets will come alive with nonstop music, energy, and community. Free to attend.

The Lotus Gala

• Saturday, October 4, 6 p.m.-11 p.m.
• Armature Works

This Tampa Bay fundraiser is the largest event of the year for the FCS Foundation, featuring an elegant evening filled with vibrant colors and a celebration of hope and healing. Join in support and enjoy dinner, beverages, live and silent auctions, and special entertainment. 100% of net proceeds go directly to non-medical financial assistance for cancer patients in need.

Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise Tampa

• Saturday, October 4, 5:30 p.m.-8 p.m.
• 603 Channelside Dr., Tampa

Get ready to 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.

Marco Antonio Solís — Mas Cerca De Ti World Tour

• Saturday, October 4, 8 p.m.
• Benchmark International Arena

SkyWatch: SPACE WEEK

• Friday, October 10, 8 p.m.-10 p.m.
• MOSI

Join MOSI astronomers for their recurring evening stargazing event, SkyWatch! This event features telescope viewing under the stars as well as space-themed demos. Chat with one of the astronomers as they bring the galaxy into view with telescopes!

Jack Carr

• Saturday, October 11, 2:30 p.m.
• Tampa Theatre

Celebrate Jack Carr's newest novel, Cry Havoc, at the Tampa Theatre!

Oxford Exchange Book Club: Great Black Hope

• Tuesday, October 14, 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m.
• Oxford Exchange

Partake in this month's book club with a focus on literary novels that stand the test of time and inspire thoughtful discussion!

Laser Light Show: Halloween

• Friday, October 24, 6:30 p.m.
• MOSI

Designed for all ages, MOSI's Laser Light Shows have something for everyone! Each performance pairs stunning visuals with your favorite soundtracks, and this time it's all about iconic Halloween soundtracks!

Ghoulish Gala

• Saturday, October 25, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
• MOSI

Calling all ghosts and ghouls! Join MOSI for their adult Halloween event, Ghoulish Gala: Twisted Carnival. Prepare for a night of spine-tingling fun as MOSI transforms into a haunted haven with a carnival twist. This eerie 18+ event promises thrills, chills, and unforgettable memories with friends.

Ongoing Things to Do in Tampa Bay

Jukebox Bingo

• Every Monday, 6:30 p.m.
• 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

• Every Tuesday, at 5 p.m.
• 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

• Every 1st and 4th Wednesday of the month
• 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

• Every Wednesday
• The Library

Enjoy half price on all bottles under $110!

Trivia Night at CHeeky's

• Every Thursday, 7 p.m.-9 p.m.
• 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

• Every Friday
• 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

• Recurring every third Friday of the month for 2025, 8 p.m.
• Hotel Haya's Flor Fina restaurant and lounge, 1412 E 7TH AVE.
  TAMPA, FL 33605

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

• Recurring every Saturday from 6 p.m. to 2 .a.m.
• Lower Deck, Tampa

Dance the night away every Saturday with awesome DJs, a stunning waterfront view, and delicious drinks!

Live Music Brunch

• Every Sunday
• The Library

happy hour at J.W. Marriott clearwater beach

• Weekly: Sunday – Thursday, from 4 p.m.-6 p.m.
• 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

• Occurs monthly on the first Wednesday of the month, 7 p.m.
• 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

• Recurring every third Sunday of the month
• 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!

Oktoberfest Tampa

• October 10-12
• 600 N Ashley Dr., Tampa

Enjoy a bit of Germany at Tampa's Oktoberfest with great brews, music, and dancing. Help tap the inaugural keg on Friday, October 10!

TAMPA PIG JIG

• Saturday, October 18
• Julian B. Lane Park, Tampa, FL

Tampa Pig Jig is a good time on the water with great BBQ, live music, and drinks flowing. It’s all about hanging out with friends, enjoying the vibes at Julian B. Lane Park, and supporting a great cause for kidney disease research.

Tall Tales of Old Florida at Cracker Country

• Saturday, October 18, 6:45 p.m.-9 p.m.
• 4800 Hwy 301 N, Tampa

Explore Tampa’s 19th-century living history museum by night. Along the way, meet storytellers who will spin wild yarns about a few of Florida’s unexplained oddities! A little scary, a little funny, and always family-friendly, the Tall Tales tour is a Florida history adventure by lantern light. Each tour is approximately 60 minutes long.

joNAS BROTHERS

• Wednesday, October 22, at 7:30 p.m.
• Tampa, FL at Amalie Arena

The Rocky Horror Picture SHow 50th Anniversary Spectacular Tour

• Wednesday, October 22, 7:30 p.m.
• Morsani Hall, The Straz Center

Let's do the time warp again! Celebrate the Rocky Horror Picture Show with an anniversary tour including a Q &A with three of the film's original cast members, Barry Bostwick (Brad), Nell Campbell (Columbia), and Patricia Quinn (Magenta).

Haunted Carnival

• October 23-26
• Armature Works

From October 23rd-26th, guests of all ages can enjoy a weekend of frightful fun, including an unforgettable family-friendly concert experience on Sunday and full carnival access every day!

Gala for Straz Center

• Saturday, October 25, 2025
• Morsani Hall, Straz Center

Join the Straz Center Board of Trustees for the fall Gala for Straz Center. This black-tie event is a celebration in support of the productions Straz Center brings to Tampa Bay. More details to be announced closer to the event date.

Rooster & the Till Guest Chef Series

• Sunday, October 26
• 6500 N Florida Ave, Tampa

The Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient and Proper House Group concept will hand over its kitchen and bar to Chef Suz Lara. Guests can expect high-energy takeovers, bold flavors, and cocktails that showcase the warm, approachable spirit Rooster is known for. Reservations are required.

Haunted Illusions

• Friday, October 24, 8 p.m.
• Central Park Performing Arts Center

David Caserta performs magical illusions you won’t see anywhere else! The production features over 16 intelligent moving lights, a themed musical score, theatrical smoke effects, and cutting-edge illusion technology.

Tampa Bay Coffee & Art Festival

• Saturday, October 25
• Florida State Fairgrounds

Coffee connoisseurs will love this coffee-centric event with more than 200 vendors and 20 coffee roasters!

Water for Elephants

• October 28-November 2
• Morsani Hall, Straz Center

The critically acclaimed, bestselling novel Water for Elephants comes to life on stage!

Hillsborough County Fair

• October 30-November 9, 2025
• 215 Sydney Washer Rd. Dover

JOSH JOHNSON: THE FLOWERS TOUR

• Saturday, November 8, at 7 p.m.
• Tampa, FL at Tampa Theatre

Stardew Valley: Symphony of Seasons

• Saturday, November 8, 8 p.m.
• Straz Center

Watch Stardew Valley come to life with a 35-piece orchestra! See the farm grow through the seasons, and enjoy visits to valley attractions such as Pelican Town, Skull Cavern, Ginger Island and Calico Desert.

Science After Dark

• Friday, November 14, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.
• MOSI

Kick off your MOSI adventure with Science After Dark, the ultimate adults-only event! Enjoy an exciting night out while exploring the wonders of science in a fun and engaging environment with a curated selection of beer and wine samples! Indulge in a variety of delicious appetizers throughout the event, and play like a kid! 

The 2025 Tampa Bay History Center Annual Gala

• Friday, November 14, 7 p.m.-11 p.m.
• 801 Water St. Tampa

The Tampa Bay History Center will host its Annual Gala with the “Something in the Air: Celebrating our Civilian and Military Aviation History” as its theme. Attire is black tie! At the event, guests will enjoy live music, open bars, terrace views, and buffets from the Columbia Café, all within the museum.

16th Annual Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Food and Wine Classic

• Friday, November 14 AND Saturday, November 15, from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• 1200 Epcot Resorts Blvd., Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Get ready to sip, savor, and stroll under the stars at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic! Indulge in a world-class celebration of global flavors, fine wines, and craft beers—all just steps from EPCOT. With unlimited tastings, live entertainment, and breathtaking ambiance, it’s the ultimate evening escape for foodies and fun-seekers alike. Don’t miss your chance to experience this unforgettable culinary event. Tickets are limited—get yours now at FoodAndWineClassic.com!

Cru Cellars 15 Year Celebration Wine Party

• Sunday, November 16, 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
• Cru Cellars

Celebrate 15 years and taste more than 50 wines, enjoy food, a pop-up cocktail bars, and live music!

Rooster & the Till Guest Chef Series

• Tuesday, November 18
• 6500 N Florida Ave, Tampa

The Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient and Proper House Group concept will hand over its kitchen and bar to Otto's High Dive (Orlando). Guests can expect high-energy takeovers, bold flavors, and cocktails that showcase the warm, approachable spirit Rooster is known for. Reservations are required.

Skywatch at MOSI

• Friday, December 5, 8 p.m.-10 p.m.
• 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 astronomers as they bring the galaxy into view with telescopes.

Christmas on Main — Tree Lighting and Festival

• Saturday, December 6, 3 p.m.-9 p.m.
• 20 N Main St., Brooksville

Come join us for an enchanting day brimming with festive music, heartwarming moments, a Christmas Craft Market, photos with Santa, live performances, and more!

THE FAB FOUR BEATLES TRIBUTE — “HELP!” TOUR

• Saturday, December 13, at 7:30 p.m.
• Tampa, FL at Tampa Theatre

Rooster & the Till Guest Chef Series

• Sunday, December 14
• 6500 N Florida Ave, Tampa

The Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient and Proper House Group concept will hand over its kitchen and bar to Chef Brian Baxter. Guests can expect high-energy takeovers, bold flavors, and cocktails that showcase the warm, approachable spirit Rooster is known for. Reservations are required.

Drag Queen Christmas

• Monday, December 22, 7:30 p.m.
• Mahaffey Theater, St. Pete

This over-the-top, 18+ holiday extravaganza features Drag Queens from RuPaul's Drace, All Stars, and more! This year's show cast includes Onya Nerve (Winner of Drag Race Season 17), Jewels Sparkles (Runner-up, Drag Race Season 17), Suzie Toot (Drag Race Season 17), Lydia B. Kollins (Drag Race Season 17 and All Stars Season 10), plus drag legends Shea Couleé, Crystal Methyd, and host of Canada’s Drag Race, Brooke Lynn Hytes.

Florida Strawberry Festival

• February 26-March 8, 2026
• Plant City, FL