News Summary
Tampa is preparing for an exciting weekend with the return of Riverfest on May 2-3, 2025. This free, family-friendly festival promises music, food, and fun, featuring performances from local bands and headliners Sister Hazel. Attendees can enjoy the ‘Taste of the Riverwalk’ event, a Taco Fest, and wiener dog races, among other activities. With over 30 vendors at the Riverfest Market, food trucks, and drink tents, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss the Riverwalk Lantern Parade to conclude the festivities!
Tampa Readies for a Musical Extravaganza at the Ninth Annual Riverfest
Hey there, Tampa! Buckle up for a fun-filled weekend as the ninth annual Riverfest rolls into town on May 2-3, 2025. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Tampa Riverwalk, this lively festival promises to bring together music lovers, foodies, families, and friends. Whether you’re looking for delightful bites or toe-tapping tunes, this event has something for everyone!
Get Ready to Rock with Sister Hazel
This year, the spotlight will shine brightest on the beloved Gainesville-based band Sister Hazel. Known for their infectious ’90s hit “All for You,” they will headline the festival with a performance you won’t want to miss! They take the stage on Saturday night at 9 p.m., so make sure to mark your calendars!
A Family Affair Awaits
If you have little ones in tow or just want to experience a great community vibe, you’ll be thrilled to know that Riverfest is free and family-friendly. Kick off the weekend on Friday, May 2, starting at 5 p.m. with a lineup of local and regional bands performing in various parks along the Riverwalk.
Savor Delicious Flavors at the “Taste of the Riverwalk”
Foodies rejoice! On Friday evening, the “Taste of the Riverwalk” event will begin at 5:30 p.m., featuring mouthwatering dishes from some of Tampa’s local restaurants. With tickets priced at $20 for three tastes or $25 for five, it’s a delicious deal! Grab your taste buds and go explore what local chefs have cooked up!
Let’s Taco ‘Bout Saturday!
Saturday, May 3, will be equally buzzing. Curtis Hixon Park will host the exciting Taco Fest, showcasing tacos from local favorites like Jotoro and Streetlight Taco. Just like the previous evening, tickets will go for similar prices, so come ready to indulge.
Wiener Dogs on the Run!
For an afternoon filled with fun, don’t miss the Florida Wiener Dog Derby taking place on Saturday at 11 a.m. Watch adorable dachshunds race, compete in themed contests, and bring lots of smiles to all attendees. If furry friends aren’t your thing, no worries—there’s plenty more to see during this vibrant weekend!
Music, Markets, and More
The music scene won’t stop on Saturday, with live performances continuing throughout the day. You can also check out the Paddle Invasion at Water Works Park, featuring long (6-mile) and short (2-mile) courses, or join a donation-based yoga session at Armature Works starting at 9 a.m.
Don’t forget to explore the Riverfest Market, boasting over 30 vendors from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.! It’ll be a perfect chance to snag some local goods and enjoy the Riverwalk’s scenic views.
Exciting Entertainment at Sparkman Wharf
As part of the festivities, Sparkman Wharf will present Rock Fest, where talented students from Hillsborough County Schools will showcase their musical chops from 1 to 4 p.m. And keep your eyes peeled for the Tampa Bay Water Ski Team, who will dazzle onlookers with impressive performances along the Hillsborough River at 4 p.m.
Illuminate the Night
As the sun sets, the fun doesn’t stop! Join the crowd for the fourth annual Riverwalk Lantern Parade at 8:30 p.m., led by Mayor Jane Castor. For those who want to get crafty, lantern-making workshops will be held before the parade on April 15, April 23, and April 28, so get your creative juices flowing!
Plan Ahead
If you’re keen on making the most of this fantastic weekend, it’s wise to purchase your tickets in advance for some great deals. All ticket transactions this year will be conducted through emailed QR codes, making entry smoother and more efficient.
With food trucks and drink tents available daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., you won’t go hungry as you soak in all the festivities. So gather your friends and family and get ready for a weekend to remember! For all the latest updates, visit www.thetampariverfest.com and stay tuned for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration right here in Tampa!
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Additional Resources
- TBN Weekly: Riverfest Announcement
- Wikipedia: Tampa
- WTSP: Wiener Dog Derby
- Google Search: Riverfest Tampa
- TBN Weekly Homepage
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tampa
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
