20+ FUN Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Weekend
Can you believe May is already here? Where has the time gone? The weekend is almost here and there are tons of exciting things to do in Tampa Bay this weekend!
One of our favorite annual events returns this weekend. Riverfest is heading to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park for two days of food, drinks, and family-friendly fun.
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>>This Week’s Favorite Events
>> Nearby U Pick Farms
>> 40+ Free Things to Do with Kids
The weather is great and u-pick season is in full swing! Check out all the farms around town where you can take advantage of u-pick berries, veggies, flowers, and more.
Our weekend guide is divided into multiple sections since there are SO many fun things to do around Tampa Bay! Scroll down for Featured Events for this weekend, Events listed by Date, SAVE THE DATE, What’s on Exhibit, and more fun ideas. So, keep scrolling to find your best day ever!
MORE Tampa Bay family-friendly fun we think you’ll love:
- Rise Up! Phoenix Rising Soars into Busch Gardens this Summer.
- Our Favorite Things to Do at Disney World that are NOT at the theme parks
- U-Pick Farms in Tampa Bay: Where to pick strawberries, veggies, and more this weekend
*Be sure to check each event’s social media pages or website to ensure there aren’t any changes due to weather.
Related: The Best Things to Do for Grown-Ups in Tampa Bay!
Featured Events
Giving the following events an extra shout-out since their support helps us provide this amazing weekend guide to you for free!
The American Stage Production of Disney's Beauty and the Beast in the Park | Wednesdays – Sundays, Through May 5, at 7:30 p.m.
Demens Landing Park, St. Petersburg
Talking teapots and clocks, an emotionally stunted beast, a determined princess – you know the story. American Stage's Park show is the Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast. Per tradition, the beast is really a young prince spellbound to appear as a monster due to his shallow ways, and if he and Belle can fall in love, like really in love, he'll be free. But as most Disney fairy tales go, there's a time crunch. Sing along with us in the park!
Tickets $35
Family Favorites Series at Tampa Theatre presented by Bank of America | Sundays, March 24 – April 28 at 3 pm
Tampa Theatre, Tampa
Tampa Theatre’s kid-inspired movie series returns, bringing beloved family films back to the big screen for a new generation of fans! Chosen specifically with families in mind, experience the nostalgia seeing your favorite movies from childhood and sharing them with the kiddos – at the oldest most iconic theater in Tampa! The next showing on Sunday, April 21 is Hook.
Tickets: $10 for grownups and $8 for kids ages 3-12.
LEGO® Ferrari Race & Build Experience at LEGOLAND Florida Resort | Now Open!
Winter Haven
Prepare to become the ultimate race car driver at this interactive experience for the whole family. The moment guests enter the attraction, they are greeted by a life-size LEGO® Ferrari 296 GTS model followed by interactive zones for guests to hop into the driver’s seat by building, tweaking, and racing their own car creations. Get a FIRST LOOK at the LEGO Ferrari exhibit here!
Australia at ZooTampa | Now Open!
Tampa
ZooTampa’s latest expansion is now open! This new area features the new family-friendly safari ride, Aussie Trek. Other enhancements include the reimagined Billabong Splash Pad, a new play area, and expanded wallaby viewing area. Guests can also partake in the new Wallaby Signature Encounter, along with the returning Koala Signature Encounter. The Lil Joey Family Stop also provides parents and nursing moms a private place to tend to smaller children. There are also two new food and beverage locations, and a special event beginning at 3 pm daily called Sunset Sips, where families can enjoy a DJ dance party along with BOGO food and drinks at the Boomerang Bar!
Things to Do on Friday, May 3
Sweetfields Farm Sunflower Season Event | Now through May 27 on select days
Masaryktown
This is one of our favorite things to do in the springtime in Tampa Bay! Sweetfields Farm’s sunflower event features u-pick flowers, a sunflower maze, farm activities, animals, and so much more! It’s a must-experience with the kids. You will want to purchase your tickets for $11.95 in advance to secure your spot! Learn more about Sweetfields here.
Amazing Athletes at Armature Works | Friday, May 3 from 10 am to 11 am
Tampa
There are two classes offered. Amazing Tots and Amazing Athletes classes are based on your child’s age and ensure a tailored program to suit their developmental needs. Classes take place every Friday, kids can commit to the remaining weekly program or drop in for a class. Amazing Athletes uses a multi-sport program to benefit children aged 18 months to 6 years old. The program introduces the fundamentals of 10 different sports (soccer, hockey, volleyball, basketball, tennis, lacrosse, football, track and field, baseball, and golf) in a non-competitive environment.
Sunset Zip Line Adventures at Empower Adventures Tampa Bay | Friday, May 1 at 3:30 pm
Oldsmar
Tour guides will lead you through a 2.5-hour unforgettable sunset zip line tour, all while taking in the breathtaking Florida views! Gain a new perspective on fun, beginning with their 60-foot tall start tower, 5 zip lines varying in length and totaling over 3,000′, a 200-foot suspension bridge along with an adventure course with log bridges, cable traverses, and poles!
FIESTA Block Party at Westchase Town Center | Friday, May 3 from 5 pm – 9 pm
Westchase
Kick off Cinco de Mayo in Westchase! Enjoy live music, family-friendly activities, food and drink specials, and more. There will also be local vendors on site.
Tampa Riverfest | Friday, May 3 from 5 pm- 10 pm
Tampa
The festival takes place at Curtis Hixon Park and spans the entire length of the Riverwalk including several parks and features family
-friendly activities and events showcasing Tampa's cultural institutions, local musicians, and restaurants. The festival includes Taste of Riverwalk on Friday night and Taco Fest on Saturday. There is also a full concert series of regional and local bands on the main stage in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and a balloon glow at sunset on both nights. Other activities include a wiener dog derby, a lantern parade, yoga, a water ski show, and a paddle invasion.
The Market Elaine at The Grove in Wesley Chapel | Friday, May 3 from 5:30 pm- 9:30 pm
Wesley Chapel
Head to the Grove to shop 150+ local vendors, hear live music, enjoy bounce houses, face painting, and caricature artists. There will also be pet adoptions!
Fun & Furious at Midtown Tampa | Friday, May 3 from 5:30 pm- 9:30 pm
Tampa
Friday will be full of games, treats, and exotic cars! Check out larger-than-life yard games, live music, and treats from your favorite Midtown retailers. Then take a walk around the community to see Corsa Car Rally’s showcase of luxury and sports cars on display.
Fortnite Friday at Esports Players Club | Friday, May 3 from 7 pm – 8:30 pm
Tampa
This exciting under-18 Fortnite tournament is now happening again every week! Compete for Vbucks and enjoy delicious pizza while you’re at it. Be sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time.
Glo in the Park at Altitude Trampoline Park | Friday, May 3 from 7 pm – 10 pm
Tampa
Get ready to party and jump GLOW style! Admission includes pizza and a bottle of water. Altitude safety socks are required (not included).
Shen Yun at Mahaffey Theater | Friday, May 3 at 7:30 pm
St. Petersburg
Through breathtaking dance and music, Shen Yun’s artists tell of a time when divine beings walked upon the earth, leaving behind a culture that inspired generations. Ancient Chinese wisdom, infused with Buddhist and Taoist spirituality and values, gave birth to everything from medical innovations to opera, dance, architecture, and even martial arts. But after decades of communist rule, much of this divinely inspired culture has been destroyed or forgotten.
Friday Night Meltdown Public Skate at AdventHealth Ice Center | Friday, May 3 from 7:45 pm – 9:45 pm
Wesley Chapel
Start your weekend off on the right skate on the ice for a 2-hour public skate session! There will be a live DJ, colored lights and so much more!
Peter Pan at The Straz Center | Friday, May 3 from 7:45 pm – 9:45 pm
Tampa
This high-flying Broadway musical takes families on an adventure with Peter Pan, Wendy, Captain Hook, and the Lost Boys. Learn what magic can happen when you have faith, trust, and pixie dust. This family-friendly musical features iconic songs and incredible scenery.
Things to Do on Saturday, May 4
Sweetfields Farm Sunflower Season Event | Now through May 27 on select days
Masaryktown
This is one of our favorite things to do in the springtime in Tampa Bay! Sweetfields Farm’s sunflower event features u-pick flowers, a sunflower maze, farm activities, animals, and so much more! It’s a must-experience with the kids. You will want to purchase your tickets for $11.95 in advance to secure your spot! Learn more about Sweetfields here.
Day of Discovery at Florida Aquarium | Saturday, May 4 from 8 am- 9:30 am
Tampa
A Day of Discovery provides an Aquarium experience specifically tailored for the enjoyment of individuals with sensory differences and their families. The entire campus will be open for exploring; including engaging touch habitats featuring moon jellies, stingrays, anemones and so much more! The Splash Pad will also be open (weather permitting) – so plan to bring a bathing suit, water shoes (optional) and a towel.
The admission to Day of Discovery is only for families and children with sensory differences and/or accessibility challenges. Special effects, lights and music will be adapted for those with sensory differences. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets are non-transferrable.
Tampa Riverfest | Saturday, May 4 from 8:30 am- 10 pm
Tampa
The festival takes place at Curtis Hixon Park and spans the entire length of the Riverwalk including several parks and features family-friendly activities and events showcasing Tampa's cultural institutions, local musicians, and restaurants. The festival includes Taste of Riverwalk on Friday night and Taco Fest on Saturday. There is also a full concert series of regional and local bands on the main stage in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and a balloon glow at sunset on both nights. Other activities include a wiener dog derby, a lantern parade, yoga, a water ski show, and a paddle invasion
Tampa All-Pro Dad Experience | Saturday, May 4 from 9 am-12 pm
Tampa
Dads and their kids can head to Raymond James Stadium and step onto the same field where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers play. There will be fun, interactive family activities and practical fatherhood tips. Specifically catered to elementary and middle school-aged kids.
Kids Workshop at Home Depot | Saturday, May 4 from 9 am-12 pm
Various locations
Head to your local Home Depot for a free make and take craft! This month, create a blooming picture frame. While supplies last.
Lettuce Lake Native Plant Walk | Saturday, May 4 from 9 am-11 am
Tampa
Discover the beauty of native plants on a guided tour with a representative of Suncoast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society. The walk begins at 9 am behind the visitor's center. You will leave from the native plant garden to walk the park trails and boardwalk to see what grows naturally in the hardwood swamp and learn how native plants benefit wildlife. After you’re done, make sure to head over to the new playground!
Check Out: Go on an Adventure and Explore the ALL NEW Playground at Lettuce Lake Park!
Kids Weekends at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay | Saturday, May 4 at 10 am
Tampa
Join Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, all of your favorite Sesame Street friends for fun-filled weekends! Taking place on Saturdays and Sundays through May 19. Included with park admission.
Kentucky Derby Day at Tampa Bay Downs | Saturday, May 4 at 10 am
Tampa
This Oldsmar race track hosts one of the biggest derby parties around. Tampa Bay Downs offers an exciting live racing card along with the simulcast of the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby. Mint juleps will be sold here in the official souvenir Derby glass. General admission and VIP box seats are available. $10-$350 per person.
STEM Saturday at Glazer Family JCC | Saturday, May 4 from 10 am to 12 pm
Tampa
Kids ages 4-12 can participate in a STEM-tastic Saturday! They’ll be diving into the world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math with hands-on experiments and engaging activities!
Weekend Workshop at Bricks 4 Kidz | Saturday, May 4 from 10 am to 1 pm
Tampa
Weekend Workshops are a great way for your child to enjoy a fun and engaging indoor activity on a Saturday! Whether you have a LEGO enthusiast, want your child to meet friends, looking for fun a weekend activity, or if you are a parent that needs some free time on a Saturday to run errands, a Bricks 4 Kidz Weekend Workshop has a little something for everyone! This Saturday, the theme will be May the LEGO 4th be With You!
Sunflower Festival at Dade City Farms | Saturday, May 4 from 10 am-4 pm
Dade City
You’ll have the chance to pick your own flowers, enjoy photo ops throughout the farm, shop from local vendors, play at the petting zoo, and so much more!!
Taco Fest at Manatee County Fairgrounds | Saturday, May 4 from 12 pm-7 pm
Palmetto
This is a family friendly event featuring a FUN zone with a free petting zoo, bull riding, free jump houses, face painting, free children's books from the Manatee Early Learning Coalition and so much more. General admission is $10. Kids under 13 are free.
The Empire Strikes Back at SkateWorld of Tampa | Saturday, May 4 from 12 pm-3 pm
Tampa
Enjoy an awesome Star Wars day! There will be games, Star Wars music, trivia, costume contest, and more. Plus, meet Darth Vader!
Minecraft Mania at MOSI | Saturday, May 4 from 1 pm – 3 pm
Tampa
You've mined for diamonds, traded emeralds, and built a portal to a whole new realm. Now it's time to put those skills you've learned along the way to the test in MOSI's Minecraft Mania! You'll get a chance to play on individual, small-team, and full-team challenges as you work on perfecting your mining strategies, enchanting your tools and armor, defending a city from an alien attack, or even learning some basic coding! Children registered for Minecraft Mania will also receive general admission to the museum for no additional cost.
Cyber Bowling Kid’s Matinee at Pin Chaser’s | Saturday, May 4 from 12 pm – 4 pm (Veterans) and 1 pm – 5 pm (Midtown)
Tampa
Cyber Bowling is the fusion of high-energy entertainment and bowling. Your favorite music and club lighting create a glowing, nightclub-like atmosphere while you bowl. Special family matinees feature family-appropriate music so families can enjoy the fun together at an earlier time.
MAY THE 4TH at Tampa Theatre: Special STAR WARS Screenings | Saturday, May 4th at 1:15 pm
Tampa Theatre
May the 4th – aka “Star Wars Day”, falls on a Saturday this year and to celebrate, Tampa Theatre has cleared their showings for a celebration of all three films in the original epic trilogy! Guests are encouraged to come in costume, and arrive early to meet some local members of the 501st Legion. Doors open 45 minutes before show time. Tickets are $10 for general audiences. The first showtime for Star Wars: A New Hope (1977) is at 1:15pm.
Esports Open Play at Northdale Recreation Center | Saturday, May 4 from 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Tampa
Esports specialists will be on hand to inspire and encourage new social skills, help develop gaming fundamentals, and set a safe, inclusive, and positive social environment. Their coaches are Esports competitors who have the skills and experience to help any player develop and grow their skills to perform better in competitions. In addition to developing Esports skills, participants socialize with like-minded competitors and make new friends in a high-energy environment.
Peter Pan at The Straz Center | Saturday, May 4 at 2 pm and 8 pm
Tampa
This high-flying Broadway musical takes families on an adventure with Peter Pan, Wendy, Captain Hook, and the Lost Boys. Learn what magic can happen when you have faith, trust, and pixie dust. This family-friendly musical features iconic songs and incredible scenery.
Shen Yun at Mahaffey Theater | Saturday, May 4 at 2 pm and 7:30 pm
St. Petersburg
Through breathtaking dance and music, Shen Yun’s artists tell of a time when divine beings walked upon the earth, leaving behind a culture that inspired generations. Ancient Chinese wisdom, infused with Buddhist and Taoist spirituality and values, gave birth to everything from medical innovations to opera, dance, architecture, and even martial arts. But after decades of communist rule, much of this divinely inspired culture has been destroyed or forgotten.
Sunset Zip Line Adventures at Empower Adventures Tampa Bay | Saturday, May 4 at 3:30 pm
Oldsmar
Tour guides will lead you through a 2.5-hour unforgettable sunset zip line tour, all while taking in the breathtaking Florida views! Gain a new perspective on fun, beginning with their 60-foot tall start tower, 5 zip lines varying in length and totaling over 3,000′, a 200-foot suspension bridge along with an adventure course with log bridges, cable traverses, and poles!
May the 4th Be With You Public Skate Event at AdventHealth Center Ice | Saturday, May 4 from 6:30 pm- 8:30 pm
Tampa
Channel your inner Jedi and join us on the ice for our annual May the 4th Public Skate Event! There will be ice skating, photo opportunities with your favorite characters and more!
Glo in the Park at Altitude Trampoline Park | Saturday, May 4 at 7 pm
Tampa
Head to Altitude Trampoline Park for an epic glow-in-the-dark jump! Includes pizza and a bottle of water. Jump socks are required.
Things to Do on Sunday, April 28
Kids Weekends at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay | Sunday, May 5 at 10 am
Tampa
Join Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, all of your favorite Sesame Street friends for fun-filled weekends! Taking place on Saturdays and Sundays through May 19. Included with park admission.
Sensory Sensitive Sundays at Chuck E Cheese | Sunday, May 5 from 9 am-11 am
Various Locations
Through their Sensory Sensitive Sundays program, participating locations open two hours early on the first Sunday of the month. They offer a quieter environment, dimmed lighting, and a trained and caring staff to ensure each guest has a safe, fun-filled visit.
Sweetfields Farm Sunflower Season Event | Now through May 27 on select days
Masaryktown
This is one of our favorite things to do in the springtime in Tampa Bay! Sweetfields Farm’s sunflower event features u-pick flowers, a sunflower maze, farm activities, animals, and so much more! It’s a must-experience with the kids. You will want to purchase your tickets for $11.95 in advance to secure your spot! Learn more about Sweetfields here.
Kid’s Day Out at Shanna and Bryan Glazer Family JCC | Sunday, May 5 from 12 pm- 4 pm
Tampa
Calling all sweet tooths ages 4-12 for a sweet-themed Sunday! Create a sundae masterpiece and enjoy arts and crafts, swimming, gym games, pizza and more!
Cyber Bowling Kid’s Matinee at Pin Chasers | Sunday, May 5 from 12 pm to 4 pm (Veterans) and 1 pm to 5 pm (Midtown)
Tampa
Cyber Bowling is the fusion of high energy entertainment and bowling. Your favorite music and club lighting create a glowing, nightclub-like atmosphere while you bowl. Special family matinees feature family-appropriate music so families can enjoy the fun together at an earlier time.
Cinco de Mayo Skate at SkateWorld Tampa | Sunday, May 5 from 1:30 pm-7 pm
Tampa
Head to Skate World for Cinco de Mayo specials all day long! Enjoy $5 pizzas, soda pitchers, nachos, and more.
Peter Pan at The Straz Center | Sunday, May 5 at 2 pm and 7:30 pm
Tampa
This high-flying Broadway musical takes families on an adventure with Peter Pan, Wendy, Captain Hook, and the Lost Boys. Learn what magic can happen when you have faith, trust, and pixie dust. This family-friendly musical features iconic songs and incredible scenery.
Shen Yun at Mahaffey Theater | Sunday, May 5 at 2 pm
St. Petersburg
Through breathtaking dance and music, Shen Yun’s artists tell of a time when divine beings walked upon the earth, leaving behind a culture that inspired generations. Ancient Chinese wisdom, infused with Buddhist and Taoist spirituality and values, gave birth to everything from medical innovations to opera, dance, architecture, and even martial arts. But after decades of communist rule, much of this divinely inspired culture has been destroyed or forgotten.
Sunday Family R&B Skate at United Skates of America | Sunday, May 5 from 5:30 pm – 8 pm
Tampa
Skate to family-friendly R&B music! Admission is $14 including skates/$11 with your own skates.
Related: Awesome family-friendly things to do with kids in Orlando
Save the Date for these Not-to-Miss Events in Tampa Bay
THINGS TO DO: See What’s on Exhibit in Tampa Bay
a-MAZE-ing Butterflies at MOSI | Now – May 5, 2024 – LAST CHANCE!
Tampa
This new 5,000-square-foot exhibit at MOSI features interactive stations that guide visitors through each stage of a butterfly’s life – from egg to caterpillar to pupa to butterfly! Slip your feet into caterpillar legs to mimic their movement, become a larva, climb oversized leaves, and see the world from a baby butterfly’s point of view. Make your way through the special hairs of the Velcro passionflower designed to trap caterpillars and understand the challenges adult butterflies face by climbing a rope wall representing a giant spider web.
See the World’s Largest Triceratops at Glazer Children’s Museum
Tampa
Big John, the world’s largest fossil triceratops is now on display at Glazer Children’s Museum for a three-year exhibition. For the first time, the museum is waiving its requirement that adults attend the museum with a child, to ensure everyone has a chance to see Big John nose to snout for themselves. While you do not need a reservation to go to the museum, you will need to book a timeslot to see Big John. This will eliminate crowds so you can make the most out of the experience. Learn more about how to plan your day to see Big John the Triceratops here.
MORPH’D at The Florida Aquarium
Tampa
This all-new exhibit features 18 species with unique adaptations from around the globe including axolotyls! Check out the adorable axolotl, peculiar paddlefish, and charming chameleon. Located in the new Mosaic Exhibit Hall, the gallery will also feature hands-on interactives that will give you a sense of what it is like to be one of these amazing creatures, connecting you with nature in a whole new way. Included with general admission.
MOSI’s DC Superheroes Exhibit – through May 5, 2024
Tampa
Your child’s favorite superheroes are featured in this brand-new exhibit in the big dome (formerly the IMAX tehater and soon-to-be the largest planetarium in Florida!). Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman are among the characters who will be part of the action as you solve mysteries and immerse yourself in interactive challenges. Learn more about the DC Universe Superheroes exhibit here.
Fairgrounds St. Pete – Open Thursday-Sunday
Fairgrounds St. Pete is an immersive art experience has made its mark in Tampa Bay! There are more than 70 artists featured. You can go and simply enjoy the whimsical art that celebrates weird, wacky, wonderful Florida or choose a different adventure and try to crack the codes and mysteries you’ll find throughout. Its newest exhibit Shrimpfinity embodies all of that–and it just might be your new favorite spot to snap the coolest photos with the kids! While you’re there, let the kids explore this unique immersive art exhibit that puts all of your senses to work. It’s truly something you’ve never seen or experienced before! Learn more about Fairgrounds St. Pete.
Zubrick Magic Theatre
St. Pete
Experience wonder in St. Pete’s only magic theatre! The Zubrick Magic Theatre is a spectacular venue that gives audiences an intimate and unforgettable evening of magical entertainment. Illusionists Chris & Ryan Zubrick conjure up an exhilarating blend of sleight-of-hand, family-friendly comedy, and breathtaking grand-scale illusions in a 70-minute performance that captures hearts and imaginations. Conveniently located in downtown St. Petersburg, FL., the Zubrick Magic Theatre guarantees to stretch smiles and drop jaws with a performance that will leave you walking away scratching your head in disbelief saying, “How did they do that?!” Get your tickets now before they all… DISAPPEAR!
Read More: Get your tickets to Tampa Bay’s ONLY magic show before they all … disappear!
Paws for Literacy at Humane Society of Tampa Bay | Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:45 pm – 4 pm
Tampa
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay gives children who love animals a chance to spend time with them while catching up on their reading or improving their reading skills. Children are paired with homeless pets who love to hear the stories and look at the pictures. The program is offered for children ages 5 and up. They’ll provide reading stools, books, and treats (for the animals), but children are welcome to bring their own books if they wish. Books provided include animal tales, stories of the animal-human bond, and books that teach empathy to young readers. Supervised by a Florida state certified teacher.
Ruskin Family Drive-In | Wednesdays-Sundays
The Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre has over 50 years of continuous service to the Ruskin and South Hillsborough County. It’s been a community gathering place since its first movie, “Singing in the Rain” played in 1952. They offer great movies, good food, and peace and quiet on a continuous basis with a 2000 square foot screen, clean restrooms, snack bar and clean parking lot. Please note: you must bring a portable radio with you or use the radio in your car to hear the movie. There will be no showings on Monday and Tuesday.
Parents’ Nights Out!
While family time is fun, it’s also important to carve some time out for yourself, whether it’s a night out with your significant other, friends, or some solo time. Several places around the Tampa area are hosting Parents’ Nights Out! For a fee, you can drop your kids off for some fun activities and playtime while you get an evening out!
Playgrounds of Tampa | Second and Fourth Friday of Every Month from 6 pm – 10 pm
For four hours, your kids will be entertained with games, movies and bounce houses galore (maybe even with some pizza) while you do whatever you want. Participants must be potty trained, ages 4 and up. Cost is $30 per child. Click here to register.
Humane Society of Tampa Bay | Last Friday of Every Month from 6 pm – 10 pm
Kids ages 5 and up will enjoy playing with the shelter animals, dinner, and watching a movie with furry friends! This program takes place monthly and registration is required. The dogs and cats can’t wait to party! Cost is $50 per child. Includes pizza dinner and drinks. To register, click here.
Jubilee Gymnastics | Second and Fourth Friday of Every Month from 6 pm – 9:30 pm
Drop off the kids to eat, play, and have fun at Jubilee Gymnastics in Ruskin while you enjoy a night out. Pre-registration is highly encouraged as these will fill up quickly. For kids ages 4 and up. Cost is $30 per child for members/$35 for non-members. Includes pizza and drinks! Click here to sign up.
Cypress Forest Park | Last Friday of Every Month from 6 p.m. – 10:30 pm
Take a night off while your children enjoy themed fun at Cypress Forest Park in Oldsmar! Pizza dinner are included. For kids ages 5-12. Cost is $10 for kids with a rec card and $15 for kids without. Click here to learn more.
More ideas to spark a weekend of lifelong memories!
Upgrade your day at ZooTampa with an animal encounter!
If you’re planning a day at ZooTampa, we love upgrading our experience with the kids with animal encounters like feeding the giraffes or rhinos. We recently booked a time to feed a Jamie the Indian White Rhino with our 5 year old and he had a great time. Baby rhino Gronk even hung out for snacks! You do have to wear a face mask during the encounter, but you can remove it for a photo. Learn more here.
Snap a mural selfie and help provide a free eye exam and glasses for a local child!
Head over to Armature Works to check out the NEW mural on the north end of the property created to promote the Glazer Vision Foundation’s “Glasses For All Children” campaign. All you have to do is share a photo of the mural, a selfie in front of the mural, or selfie wearing any type of glasses, tag @glazervisionfdn, hashtag #OneShareOnePair and the foundation will give a local child a free eye exam, and pair of glasses! Easy peasy! Learn more.
Check out the St. Pete Pier
Eat, drink, shop and play at the new St. Pete Pier. The new playground area is quickly becoming a family favorite in Tampa Bay, just make sure to bring plenty of hand sanitizer and/or hand sanitizing wipes with you. Stay late and look up to see the Bending Arc light up in a spectacular display. You will need to wear a mask inside the stores, restaurants, and Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center. The Glazer Vision Foundation just announced it is contributing $1.5 million to the Glazer Family Playground at the Pier to support the space for years to come! Learn more.
FREE Resouces to Explore!
Children’s Board Family Resource Centers
The program provides parents and caregivers and their children an opportunity to participate in parent/child developmental playgroups, developmental screenings, and health and safety education classes at no cost. In addition, pediatric well-child visits, immunizations and hearing or vision screenings are provided for qualifying families. To sign up for programs and services, and to find your neighborhood Children’s Board Family Resource Center visit familysupporthc.org.
Learn & Play Tampa Bay Playgroups
The program provides quality early learning experiences at no cost at the seven children’s Board Family Resource Centers and other designated Hillsborough County sites. The program also delivers weekly in-person and online virtual developmental classes and provides take home activities that promote early learning and school readiness at no cost. tbp1.wpengine.com/lets-play-tampa-bay/
Outdoorsy Things to Do in Tampa Bay
Head to the beach!
The beaches are open, but you’ll see plenty of reminders about social distancing. You’ll also want to pack some extras in your beach bag like hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes. Cloth masks are also a good idea in case you decide to visit an establishment that requires them. We’re sharing some of our favorite family-friendly beaches in Tampa Bay here.
Go for a hike!
Lace up the hiking shoes and spend the day in nature with the kids! Many preserves and conservation parks are now open in Tampa Bay. Find a park near you or discover a new one:
Weekend Farmers Markets in Tampa Bay this Weekend
Saturday Morning Market at Williams Park in St. Pete | Saturdays from 9 am -1 pm
Experience one of the top farmers markets in the U.S.! Expect an estimated 170 vendors selling their goods and artisans selling their crafts. Add stellar food choices for dining and live music for entertainment and it’s a perfect day in the Florida sunshine. Their Summer Market, located at Williams Park, typically runs from June to August.
Dunedin Downtown Market | Saturdays from 9 am-1 pm
The Dunedin Downtown Market at John Lawrence Pioneer Park features 40+ local merchants and vendors including fresh fruits and vegetables.
Fresh Market at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel | Select Saturdays from 10 am-2 pm
There are 60+ vendors expected at the Fresh Market at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel including organic and hydroponically grown produce.
Corey Avenue Market in St. Pete Beach | Sundays from 9 am- 1 pm
Corey Avenue Market features more than 70 local vendors and merchants selling everything from crafts, art, food and locally grown produce.
Ybor City Saturday Market in Tampa | Every Saturday from 9 am-1 pm
The Ybor City Saturday Market is the largest continually operating outdoor market in the Tampa Bay Area. Centered in Tampa’s Historic District, the market is one of the most popular shopping destinations for locally produced items unique to the Tampa Bay Area. Features locally made arts, crafts, and gourmet foods representing the area.
The Market Elaine at Wesley Chapel | First Friday of Every Month
Head to The Grove in Wesley Chapel for a unique evening market featuring tons of local businesses! Enjoy local vendors, live music, food, and more. themarketculture.com
Hyde Park Fresh Market in Tampa | First Sunday of Every Month from 10 am -3 pm
Hyde Park Fresh Market features over 80 local vendors including produce, handcrafted goods, plants, and more. While you shop, enjoy live music by Gasparilla Music in Village Circle.
Carrollwood Market | Select Saturdays from 10 am-2 pm
Head to the Carrollwood Cultural Center to explore 60+ local vendors and businesses.
Westchase Locale Market | Every Second Saturday from 10 am – 3 pm
Enjoy live music and over 30 vendors in Westchase Town Center every second Saturday of the month.
Celebrate the Weekend in Orlando!
Want MORE ideas for fun adventures in Orlando or Walt Disney World? We’ve got more here! You can also follow our media partners at OrlandoDateNightGuide.com