Things to do in Tampa Bay May 2023

There's always something fun and unique to do in the Tampa Bay area. And this month is no exception. Riverfest in downtown Tampa (wiener dog races!), golf at RayJay and festivals dedicated to Cuban sandwiches and tacos. Have a great month exploring Tampa Bay!

Riverfest

May 5-6
Downtown Tampa’s Riverwalk

The festival spans the entire length of the Riverwalk including several parks and features family-friendly activities and events with local musicians and restaurants.  The festival includes Taste of Riverwalk on Friday night and RiverFiesta (NEW!) on Saturday.  There is also a full concert series of tribute 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.  

Topgolf Live

May 4-7
Raymond James Stadium

Tee off at the home of the Bucs or take your swings inside a tricked-out mobile simulator. From the upper deck hitting bays, you will score points by hitting onto the playing field. Typically, there are six giant targets on the field ranging from 40 to 150 yards away, and each section of each target has a point value. Each player in your bay will take turns hitting five shots and after each player has completed their turn, the game is over. Your group can play as many games as time allows (each tee time lasts one hour). Typically, a bay with a maximum of six players can complete four or five games at a reasonable pace. Toptracer technology will accurately trace your shots and show you instant replays. Food and drinks are also available. You don’t need to be a golfer to participate. It’s fun for all ages and abilities. Individual tickets are $60. More info here

Derby Day

May 6
Tampa Bay Downs, Oldsmar

If you can't be at Churchill Downs, the Oldsmar oval is the place to experience the most exciting 2 minutes in sports. Tampa Bay Downs offers a special 12-race card, followed by the simulcast of the 149th running of the Kentucky Derby. Mint juleps will be sold in the official souvenir Derby glass. More info here

Sunflower Fields Harvestmoon

May 6-29
Harvestmoon Fun Farm

Come pick a beautiful bouquet of sunflowers and zinnias, visit the petting farm, jump on the jumping pillow, take a ride on the hayride and more! Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in May, times vary. $13.95 for ages 3 and up. More info here

St. Pete Tacos and Tequila Festival

May 13-14
Vinoy Park in St. Pete

What’s better than tacos, tequila and live music with a waterfront view? Nothing! This waterfront festival features more than 25 taco vendors, premium margaritas and other cocktail and beer options, and live music from four bands. More info here

Sunset Music Festival

May 27-28
Raymond James

Prepare for a sensory overload of electronic goodness with top-notch visual and audio production from a long list of bands featuring a cross-section of genres including house, techno, trance and bass. The event is Memorial Day weekend and runs 4p to midnight Saturday and Sunday. More info here

Ford International Cuban sandwich festival

May 28
Centennial Park in Ybor City

Enjoy live music and cultural entertainment and the best Cuban sandwiches around. Contestants and chefs from around the world compete for the grand prize to compete in the World Food Championships! More info here