Thru Nov 10 THE BOY WHO LOVED BATMAN
An inspirational comedy about one man's vision that became a national phenomenon. It's a crazy journey that goes from New Jersey to Hollywood, comic books to the silver screen. Every hero needs a hero, even Batman. The Straz Center for Performing Arts. 813-229-7827 StrazCenter.org
Thru Jan 5 THE QUESTIONEERS
Step into the world of The Questioneers, based on the series written by Andrea Beaty and illustrated by David Roberts. In this interactive exhibit, you can be an engineer like Rosie Revere, an architect like Iggy Peck, a scientist like Ada Twist, a leader like Sofia Valdez, and an artist like Aaron Slater. Glazer Children's Museum. 813-443-3861 GlazerMuseum.org
Thru Feb SKYWAY 2024: A CONTEMPORARY COLLABORATION
A delightful celebration of artistic practices in the Tampa Bay region, as well as a collaboration between five creative institutions. Working together, curators from each institution offer context for the diversity of art being made in various Florida counties. Tampa Museum of Art. 813-274-8130 TampaMuseum.org
Thru Apr 10 ANCIENT ATHENS: BIRTHPLACE OF DEMOCRACY
During the 2024 Presidential Elections, the Tampa Museum of Art will highlight the ancient Greek city-state Athens, and allow the visitor to contemplate the ideals of the society that gave birth to democracy. Tampa Museum of Art. 813-274-8130 TampaMuseum.org
Thru May THE ART OF COPTIC EGYPT
The Art of Coptic Egypt showcases over fifty artifacts from a local private collection dating from early centuries of the Roman Imperial to the Middle Ages, although special attention is given to objects specifically associated with the Coptic church. Today, there is still a thriving, vibrant Coptic community in Egypt and beyond, including in Tampa. Tampa Museum of Art. 813-274-8130 TampaMuseum.org
Select Nights in Oct UNDEAD IN THE WATER
Immerse yourself in an interactive haunted attraction aboard a floating WWII Ship. Will you survive? American Victory Ship. 813-228-8766 UNDeadintheWater.com
Oct 19 13TH ANNUAL TAMPA PIG JIG
Come out and enjoy a day of music, games, and most importantly BBQ! Don't forget to bring a bib! Julian B Lane Park. TampaPigJig.com
Oct 23 EDDIE IZZARD
British comedian Eddie Izzard returns to stand-up with a retrospective set featuring highlights from her 35-year career. Eddie's comedy has been honed by her years of stage and screen acting as well as her activism supporting European unity. She's spent much of this year performing her critically lauded one-actor performance of Hamlet, so Eddie's probably ready for some laughs. The Straz Center for Performing Arts. 813-229-7827 StrazCenter.org
Oct 25 HALLOWEEN ROCK THE YACHT
Halloween is almost upon us and we're ready for a scary good time! Trick-or-treat yourself at Halloween Rock the Yacht. Carve out some time to see our two DJs on multiple levels playing all your favorite hits. No matter witch floor you're on, you're going to have a blast dancing and enjoying the boo-tiful views you've come to expect with Yacht StarShip. There will be a costume contest, so make sure to dress up for this 2.5-hour cruise along Tampa Bay. Yacht Starship. 813-223-7999 YachtStarship.com
Oct 26-27 TAMPA BAY HOME SHOW
For one weekend, see wall-to-wall displays and exhibits of the latest trends in home improvement. You'll have the opportunity to speak directly with experts and receive the advice and inspiration you need to turn your dream home into a reality. For homeowners and exhibitors alike, this is a can't-miss event. Tampa Convention Center. Sat 10-5pm thru Sun 10-4pm. 877-730-7469 TampaHomeShow.com
Oct 26 ANNUAL RIVERWALK TRICK OR TREAT
Come and trick or treat along the Riverwalk. With over 50 treat stations from Water Works Park to USF Park. Then stick around and enjoy the Halloween Lighted Boat Parade along the Hillsborough River. 4-7pm. TheTampaRiverwalk.com
Oct 27 HALLOWEEN SPREE
Show off your most creative costume at Halloween Spree! Bring your little ghouls and goblins to GCM to enjoy safe, indoor trick-or-treating, costume parades, our annual Team GCM Pumpkin Decorating Contest, and Halloween-themed activities! Glazer Children's Museum. 10am-7pm. 813-443-3861 GlazerMuseum.org
Oct 27 TAMPA BOO BRUNCH
Join us for our Halloween-themed Boo Brunch this October! We want to make your witches come true. Enhance your afternoon with $15 bottomless mimosas, and be prepared for a cruise overlooking Tampa's boo-tiful scenery with a family-style brunch buffet. Kids of all ages are encouraged to sport their Halloween costumes to win prizes in our costume contest. Don't forget to enjoy some tricks and treats on the top deck with lively DJ entertainment! Yacht Starship. 813-223-7999 YachtStarship.com
Oct 27 NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM
Historical characters come to life as you trick or treat the galleries. 4-7:30pm. Tampa Bay History Center. 813-228-0097 TampaBayHistoryCenter.org
Nov 1 - Dec 31 GINGERBREAD VILLAGE
Ginger-snap to it and visit Glazer Children's Museum's sweet winter wonderland this holiday season! Work as a family to build your sweet design from recycled materials and add your house to the growing village! Gingerbread Village is included with museum admission. Glazer Children's Museum. 813-443-3861 GlazerMuseum.org
Nov 2 TAMPA PRINCESS CRUISE
Princes and Princesses of all ages are welcome to come aboard this magical cruise out of Tampa. The 2-hour cruise will include a boarding photo opportunity with a princess followed by a lunch buffet where Parties with Character Princesses will visit each table. After lunch, guests are welcome to join the princesses for a sing-along and DJ dance party on the top deck. Join us and explore Tampa on top of the sea! Yacht Starship. 813-223-7999 YachtStarship.com
Nov 6 MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL
Winner of 10 Tony Awards. Enter a world of splendor and romance, of glitz, grandeur and glory! A celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom and above all, Love. The Straz Center for Performing Arts. 813-229-7827 StrazCenter.org
Nov 8-10 10TH ANNUAL TAMPA TATTOO ARTS CONVENTION
Featuring artists from Ink Master, vendors, seminars, entertainment, contests and more! Tampa Convention Center. Fri 2pm-11pm, Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 11am-8pm. VillainArts.com
Nov 12-17 DR. SEUSS' HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL
Join us for this Broadway holiday sensation which features the hit songs "You're A Mean One Mr. Grinch" and "Welcome Christmas" from the original animated special. Magnificent sets and costumes inspired by Dr. Seuss' original illustrations help transport audiences to the whimsical world of Whoville and help remind us of the true meaning of the holiday season. The Straz Center for Performing Arts. 813-229-7827 StrazCenter.org
Nov 20 YBOR CITY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
Countdown to light Historic Ybor's tree with the Mayor. Enjoy hot chocolate & cookies, amongst light up candy canes. Centro Ybor. 6-8pm. Ybor.org
Nov 21-24 MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
The arrival of the Prince, Don Pedro, and his top naval officers, Claudio and Benedict, marks a moment of excitement in the home of Signor Leonato. But not everyone is excited to see each other. Benedict and Beatrice, Leonato's niece, have always had a "merry war" of wits between them that usually ends in a shouting match. Their friends and family, however, understand that that the battling may have a bit of love under the surface. Shakespeare's comedy, Much Ado About Nothing, reminds us that sometimes joy is right in front of us, we might just need a little meddling from those close to us to figure it out. The Straz Center for Performing Arts. 813-229-7827 StrazCenter.org
Nov 21 - Mar 2 FANDOM: CELEBRATING ROCK & ROLL WITH JAY NOLAN AND DAVY ALDER
Visitors are immersed into the electric atmosphere of rock and roll through the eyes of the fans. An exhibition that captures the raw energy and unique personalities of live music all brought to life with dynamic photos alongside historic backstage passes and vintage tour posters. Florida Museum of Photographic Arts. 813-221-2222 FMOPA.org
Nov 22 - Jan 5 WINTER VILLAGE
Celebrate the holiday season when downtown is transformed with the sights, sounds and activities of the holidays for children and adults of all ages. Enjoy ice skating, curling, food and shopping. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. WinterVillageTampa.com
Nov 23 - Dec 31 VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS STROLL
Stroll down the extravagantly adorned hallways of the former Tampa Bay Hotel. Sing with carolers and meet old Saint Nick. Henry B Plant Museum. 813-254-1891 PlantMuseum.com
Nov 28 TAMPA THANKSGIVING CRUISE
Let our crew handle the details while you sit back, relax and enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving feast while taking in the beautiful views of Tampa. The yacht's executive chef has a delicious meal planned for you! After dinner, make your way up to the top deck to take in the fresh air while our DJ plays the latest hits. This will be a Thanksgiving to remember! Yacht Starship. 813-223-7999 YachtStarship.com
Nov 28 CRAFT THANKSGIVING CRUISE
This Thanksgiving, leave the kitchen behind and embark on a river dining journey aboard Craft. Experience the ease of celebrating in style with a memorable cruise that combines breathtaking views and delicious cuisine. Craft Tampa. 813-223-7999 CraftTampa.com
Nov 29 - Dec 30 TAMPA HOLIDAY DINNER BUFFET CRUISE
A dazzling night awaits you this holiday season aboard Yacht StarShip! Set sail and create an evening of awe as you cruise through Tampa Bay's beautiful skyline. Take in the fresh sea air after a specially prepared holiday meal and refreshments, concluding your evening with dancing on the top deck with your friends and family. Don't forget to flaunt your most festive attire! Yacht Starship. 813-223-7999 YachtStarship.com
Nov 30 ENCANTO: THE SING-ALONG FILM CONCERT
So you loved Disney's animated hit Encanto but hated not being able to sing along in the movie theater? You're in luck. The "Sing-Along Film Concert" is designed with you karaoke heroes in mind. See the film on a giant screen and sing to your hearts content on Encanto numbers such as "We Don't Talk About Bruno." You and your fellow songbirds will be accompanied by a live band, Banda de la Casita, as well. The Straz Center for Performing Arts. 813-229-7827 StrazCenter.org
Dec 1 A LIVE CONVERSATION WITH CHEVY CHASE
Start your holiday season with hilarity at a screening of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation followed by an appearance by Clark Griswold himself, Chevy Chase. Chase will share behind-the-scenes stories and anecdotes about the making of this beloved movie that has become a Christmas tradition. The Straz Center for Performing Arts. 813-229-7827 StrazCenter.org
Dec 5-23 IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A RADIO PLAY
Ring in the holidays with a heartwarming twist! Frank Capra's classic film, It's a Wonderful Life leaps to the stage as a live 1940s radio play. Get ready for a nostalgic evening as some of Tampa Bay's top actors bring the story of George Bailey to life, complete with live foley effects and festive cheer. This beloved tale reminds us that no one is a failure who has friends, and that the true meaning of Christmas is richer than any fortune. The Straz Center for Performing Arts. 813-229-7827 StrazCenter.org
Dec 7 TAMPA TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
Enjoy live music, the countdown to light the tree with Tampa's Mayor, the Christmas market, and a free movie in the park. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. 6-9pm. The Straz Center for Performing Arts. 813-229-7827 FriendsOfTampaRec.org
Dec 7 ELF IN CONCERT
This holiday season, relive this heartwarming holiday classic on a giant screen as every note of John Debney's wonderful score is played live to picture in: Elf in Concert! The Straz Center for Performing Arts. 813-229-7827 StrazCenter.org
Dec 7 TAMPA'S CHRISTMAS PARADE, SANTA FEST & TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
The Annual Christmas Parade steps off at 1pm with the best viewing along Madison St. The holiday festivities continue in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park with Santa Fest at 3pm. Enjoy continuous holiday entertainment, make-n-takes, games, free photos with Santa, and more. Then at 6pm, Tampa's Mayor leads the countdown to light the Christmas Trees, ending with a classic holiday movie at 6:45pm. FriendsOfTampaRec.org
Dec 8 YBOR CITY CIGAR FESTIVAL
Cigar aficionados, relish in the "Best" cigars from around the world. Watch as Cuban artisans handcraft cigars. Enjoy food, drink, cigar vendors, dominoes, live music and more. Centennial Park. 11am-5pm. YborCigarFestival.com
Dec 10-15 SOME LIKE IT HOT
Winner of four Tony Awards, including Best Choreography and Best Costumes, and the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, SOME LIKE IT HOT is "A super-sized, all-out song-and-dance spectacular!" - The New York Times. Set in Chicago when Prohibition has everyone thirsty for a little excitement, SOME LIKE IT HOT is the "glorious, big, high-kicking" (Associated Press) story of two musicians forced to flee the Windy City after witnessing a mob hit. With gangsters hot on their heels, they catch a cross-country train for the life-chasing, life-changing trip of a lifetime. The Straz Center for Performing Arts. 813-229-7827 StrazCenter.org
Dec 14-15 HOT CHOCOLATE RUN
America's sweetest run is back with 5K, 10K, and 15K distances and a post-run party that’ll make you go cocoa crazy, you and your friends will experience the ultimate chocolate celebration! Hot Chocolate Expo, Sat 10am-5pm. Runs start on Sun at 7am. Tampa Convention Center. HotChocolate15k.com
Dec 20-23 NEXT GENERATION BALLET'S NUTCRACKER
Now a glittering, star-studded Tampa holiday tradition, Next Generation Ballet's Nutcracker includes principal dancers from American Ballet Theatre. This family-friendly favorite takes audiences into Clara and Drosselmeyer's fantastical world of dancing sweets, sword-fighting rodents and some of ballet's most famous music. The Straz Center for Performing Arts. 813-229-7827 StrazCenter.org
Dec 21 HOLIDAY LIGHTED BOAT PARADE
Watch along the Riverwalk as festively decorated boats compete in a spectacle of lights. 6-9pm. TheTampaRiverwalk.com
Dec 21 TAMPA HOLIDAY LIGHTED BOAT PARADE
Join Yacht StarShip for the best views of the Lighted Boat Parade, Tampa's Largest Lighted Boat Parade! During this 2.5-hour cruise guests will enjoy a holiday buffet dinner, two free drinks, excellent water views of the annual Downtown Tampa Holiday Lighted Boat Parade (weather permitting), DJ entertainment, and dancing on the top deck. Yacht Starship. 813-223-7999 YachtStarship.com
Dec 24 CRAFT CHRISTMAS EVE
This Christmas Eve, step aboard Craft for an unforgettable holiday dining experience with a festive twist. Indulge in modern American cuisine, expertly crafted by our Executive Chef, in the nation's first open kitchen on a river cruiser. The gas cooking equipment adds a unique touch, making this dinner cruise a truly unforgettable experience. Craft Tampa. 813-223-7999 CraftTampa.com
Dec 26-27 CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE
Keep the seasonal cheer going with a dazzling celebration of the red and the green. Characters from holiday stories come to life on stage as acrobats soar above, dancers sparkle and contortionists contort in ways not thought possible. Classic holiday songs might get a twist as well. Cirque Dreams Holidaze is the surest way to extend your holiday whimsey. The Straz Center for Performing Arts. 813-229-7827 StrazCenter.org
Dec 30 RELIAQUEST BOWL PARADE
Ybor City hosts this festive Parade and Pep Rally. The parade will feature floats, marching bands & cheerleaders. The parade starts at 5:30pm and runs down 7th Ave in Ybor City. ReliaQuestBowl.com
Dec 31 DOWNTOWN COUNTDOWN
Ring in the New Year with countdowns and celebrations every hour. Celebrate with a balloon drop to bubble wrap fireworks, explosive experiments, and more! Glazer Children's Museum. 813-443-3861 9:30am-3pm. GlazerMuseum.org
Dec 31 TAMPA NEW YEAR'S EVE CRUISE
It's almost time to say "Bon Voyage" to 2024! Ring in the new year on Yacht StarShip's New Year's Eve Celebration Cruise in Tampa. Count down to midnight as you sip on delicious cocktails and dance the night away under the stars and some fireworks! Start your new year off right with an experience you won't forget! Yacht Starship. 813-223-7999 YachtStarship.com
Dec 31 PIRATE WATER TAXI NEW YEARS EVE FIREWORKS CRUISE
Ring in the New Year on the water with front-row seats to Tampa's spectacular New Year's Eve Fireworks! This 1-hour cruise includes a complimentary champagne toast and prime views of Downtown Tampa's dazzling display. Pirate Water Taxi. 813-223-7999 PirateWaterTaxi.com
Jan 10-17 TAMPA BAY BLACK HERITAGE FESTIVAL
A celebration that host a variety of family-friendly activities, with live entertainment, cultural events, health tutorials, renowned speakers, food & craft vendors, a music fest and more. TampaBlackHeritage.org
Jan 18 CHILDREN'S GASPARILLA EXTRAVAGANZA
Pint-sized pirates take over the City of Tampa with family fun, floats, flying planes, and fireworks! The 1/2 mile Gasparilla Preschooler's Stroll begins at 2pm along Bayshore Blvd. At 4pm the Children's Gasparilla Parade begins at Bay to Bay & Bayshore Blvd and ends at Edison Ave. 7pm is the "Piratechnic Finale", where the imaginary sea battle between the pirates of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla and the City of Tampa is re-created. 813-251-8844 Childrens.GasparillaPirateFest.com
Jan 20 DR MARTIN LUTHER KING JR DAY PARADE
Thousands line the streets of a two-mile route winding through East Tampa from Cuscaden Park to Middleton High School. Noon-4pm. MLKJrParade.com
Jan 25 GASPARILLA PIRATE STREET FESTIVAL
The festivities begin even before the pirates invade and the merriment continues into the evening after the parade with stages featuring live entertainment and lots of delicious food. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park & MacDill Park. 9am-9pm. 813-251-8844 GasparillaPirateFest.com
Jan 25 GASPARILLA INVASION
The legendary Jose Gasparilla arrives in style, sailing into the Tampa Convention Center basin along with a magnificent flotilla of hundreds of vessels and the notorious pirates of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla. The excitement is palpable when the ship docks at precisely 1pm and our Captain meets the Mayor of Tampa to make his final demand for the key to the city. It's a thrilling spectacle that you won't want to miss! 813-251-8844 GasparillaPirateFest.com
Jan 25 PARADE OF THE PIRATES
The pirates celebrate their victory by parading along Bayshore Blvd, at 2pm, passing out trinkets and treasures to thousands along the route until they come to a stop at Cass St and Ashley Dr in Downtown Tampa. 813-251-8844 GasparillaPirateFest.com
Feb 8 SANT'YAGO ILLUMINATED KNIGHT PARADE
Come party at the Illuminated Knight Parade- featuring illuminated floats, plenty of music and dancing, and lots of beads. The parade begins at 7pm along 7th Ave in Ybor City, and the party extends into the early morning hours. KnightParade.org
Feb 14-16 14TH ANNUAL GASPARILLA MUSIC FESTIVAL
Gasparilla Music Festival returns for three days of live music across 4 stages along Tampa's riverfront. This showcase of Tampa Bay's finest musicians, artists, and food is not to be missed! Gasparilla Music Festival. 813-708-8423 GasparillaMusic.com
Feb 22 FIESTA DAY
Explore and celebrate the heritage that made Ybor what it is today. This annual street festival brings out the best in Ybor and includes food, arts & crafts, and music. 7th Ave. 11am-6pm. Ybor City. Ybor.org
Feb 22-23 GASPARILLA DISTANCE CLASSIC RACE WEEKEND
Taking place since 1978, The Gasparilla Distance Classic Association will host this year's 15K and 5K races on Saturday, the Half Marathon and 8k on Sunday, Team Challenges and other events in between! All races begin and end in Downtown Tampa, near the Tampa Convention Center. 813-254-7866. RunGasparilla.com
Mar 1-2 RAYMOND JAMES GASPARILLA FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
Showcasing the world's most talented artists at this premier juried outdoor fine art and fine craft festival. Featured art includes ceramics, glass, jewelry, painting, photography, sculpture, and more! Includes the TBBCA Chalk Walk, live entertainment & children's activities. Julian B Lane Riverfront Park. Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 10am-5pm. 813-876-1747 GasparillaArts.com
Mar 27-30 GASPARILLA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
A celebration of filmmakers from across the world as well as local talent. The event features screenings of documentaries, shorts and feature-length works, in addition to U.S. premieres, Q&A sessions with the auteurs and casts, expert panel discussions, star-studded red carpet engagements, after parties and an award ceremony. 813-693-2367 GasparillaFilmFestival.com
