Tampa is proud to exhibit its dedication to the Arts and Culture through theater groups, orchestras, world-class performance halls, museums, festivals, galleries and much more. Take a look, get involved and experience it for yourself:
- David A. Stratz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts
- Tampa Museum of Art
- Tampa Bay History Center
- Henry B. Plant Museum
Festivals
- Gasparilla Pirate Festival - late January, this near century old festival sees all manner of swashbuckling antics including a parade where a fully-rigged pirate ship 'sails' into town followed by the all day Pirate Fest Street Festival
- Florida State Festival - this festival normally runs for two weeks from the middle of February and is southeast Florida's largest fair. Attractions include over 86 shows and rides as well as exhibits featuring aspects of local agriculture, education and arts and crafts
- The Florida Strawberry Festival rolls out the red carpet to welcome visitors from throughout the Sunshine State and the world. Guests come from near and far to enjoy exhibits of agriculture, commerce, industry, livestock, fine arts, horticulture, and crafts.
- MacDill AirFest - early April, this event sees the MacDill Air Force Base become host to one of America's largest air shows. Expect awesome aerial displays from both Air Force and Navy pilots
- Ybor City Bike Bash - the first weekend in May, this event sees literally hundreds of bike enthusiasts gathering to show off their mean machines and admire those of others. Expect lots of leather and loud engines
- Independence Day - fourth of July celebrations in Tampa are as lively as anywhere else in the US, with events being held across the city. Expect festivities including food, drink and fireworks in all of Tampa's major parks. The Florida Aquarium hosts one of the city's biggest events
- Guavaween - late October, this event sees Halloween festivities given the Ybor treatment. Expect revelers in costume and a huge street party
- Annual Tampa Cigar Heritage Festival - late November, as the title suggests this event is a celebration of Ybor and Tampa's cigar industry. Expect an abundance of cigar retailers as well as rolling displays and ethnic food and drink
