TAMPA, FL — Summer doesn’t actually start until Sunday, June 21, when the summer solstice occurs.
But Memorial Day Weekend, unofficially the start of summer, pulls people out of their daily routines, and for the next few months, it’s game on for shared art, food, music and heritage.
Here's a look at our top 10 favorites in the Tampa area, in no particular order:
The premier music festival in Tampa Bay. Huge crowds, nationally known artists, local food vendors, craft beer and a great downtown Tampa waterfront atmosphere at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park.
Beach + seafood + blues music is hard to beat. One of the best overall “Florida summer” vibes anywhere on the Gulf Coast.
More party-focused than artsy, but consistently one of the most fun summer social events in Tampa with live music, food trucks and massive margarita competitions.
A combination of fitness, waterfront views, food vendors and live entertainment centered around one of Florida’s best urban waterfronts.
Massive sand sculptures, sunset beach crowds and family-friendly entertainment make this one of the Tampa Bay area’s most visually unique festivals.
Worth the drive south. International street artists create incredible 3D art installations that turn entire blocks into immersive artwork.
Greek food, local artists and old Florida waterfront charm make this one feel very different from typical Tampa events.
One of the area’s best food/music combo festivals with major barbecue competition teams and national touring acts.
Smaller and more relaxed, but excellent if you like acoustic music, local breweries and artsy small-town Gulf Coast energy.
A great local-food-focused festival with beach restaurants competing for best dishes and cocktails.
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