March in Tampa Bay just hits differently. It’s strawberry season, festival season, and the time of year when the city leans into a little extra celebration—hello, St. Patrick’s Day. From berry-filled bites and street festivals to live music, parades, and outdoor fun, March is all about soaking up good vibes and even better weather. If you’re looking for reasons to get out and explore, you’ll find plenty this month.
Feb 26 - March 8
Guests from all over descend on Plant City Feb. 26-March 8 to enjoy exciting rides, phenomenal festival food, live music, and exhibits of agriculture, commerce, industry, livestock, fine arts, horticulture, crafts, and, of course, strawberries at the Florida Strawberry Festival. Headliners for this year’s entertainment include Alabama, Riley Green, The Offspring, Dierks Bentley, and the Legends of Love featuring Brian McKnight, Ginuwine & Ruben Studdard.
March 3 - 8
If you’re looking for a laugh, BATSU! takes over the Straz Center for the Performing Arts March 3–8 with comedians going head to head in outrageous slapstick challenges. Inspired by the wildly popular Japanese comedy show, this American twist delivers nonstop chaos as performers compete in improv games, physical challenges, and ridiculous tasks. The catch is that the losers face hilariously over the top punishments, keeping the crowd laughing all night.
March 3 - 8
The Gasparilla festivities aren’t over just yet. Now celebrating its 19th anniversary, the Gasparilla International Film Festival has grown into one of the region’s largest showcases of independent film. Dedicated to bringing art, education, and powerful storytelling to the Tampa Bay community, the festival features an exciting lineup of thought-provoking documentaries, compelling dramas, and laugh-out-loud comedies.
March 5 - 8
Disney On Ice: Mickey’s Search Party is coming to Tampa’s Benchmark International Arena for a magical run from March 5–8, inviting families to join Mickey Mouse and friends on an adventure packed with high-flying acrobatics, stunning skating, and interactive moments. Featuring beloved stories from Frozen, Coco, Moana, Aladdin, Toy Story, and more, the show blends cutting-edge effects with Disney’s timeless charm, creating an immersive experience for guests of all ages. It's a celebration of imagination, friendship, and the magic of live performance—on ice.
March 6 - May 10
Thrills, flavor, and culture come together at the annual Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival. This fan favorite event truly has it all, offering a variety of memorable dishes and dynamic wine selections that let guests sip and savor their way around the park. Between bites, you can turn up the excitement by hopping on the park’s famously daring roller coasters. As an added bonus, guests can also enjoy live concerts included with park admission, making it the perfect blend of taste and entertainment.
March 6
On Friday, March 6, it’s “off with their corks!” for a two-tiered Wine Tasting – presented by Amalie Oil Co. Guests are invited to explore the historic 1926 landmark Tampa Theatre while sampling boutique wines from around the world and enjoying tempting bites from Tampa’s top independent restaurants. There is also an opportunity to bid on premium silent auction items representing Tampa Bay retailers, restaurants, services, and attractions. Guests are encouraged to dress as their favorite character or in an Alice in Wonderland-inspired costume.
March 7
The Bulls Family Fest is an annual celebration where families and the public can immerse themselves in the diverse offerings of the University of South Florida's colleges, departments, and student organizations. The Bulls Family Fest is located each year at the University of South Florida Tampa campus.
March 7 - 8
Comic book creators George and Harold have reached fifth grade and are ready for a challenge: making a musical based on one of their characters, Dog Man, a part-human, part-canine crime fighter. No problem, right? No. There are problems, all right, and that’s what fuels this charming stage adaptation of the popular children’s book series, which is itself a spin-off of Captain Underpants, all from the mind and pen of author Dav Pilkey.
March 7
From 10 am to 3 pm join Keel Farms for Sip + Shop. Shop local artists, small businesses, handmade art, baked goods, boutique items, and more while you enjoy your favorite wine and cider from Keel Farms.
March 11
Join an engaging discussion at The Florida Aquarium about “living shorelines,” an innovative approach to stabilizing eroded coastlines and protecting Florida’s ecosystems. Led by Thomas F. Ries, president of the Ecosphere Restoration Institute with more than 40 years of experience as an ecologist, the conversation will explore how natural elements like native plants, oysters, and sustainable materials help prevent erosion. Guests will gain insight into how these solutions protect homes, waterways, wildlife, and local businesses while strengthening coastal resilience for generations to come.
March 13
March is full of laughs in Tampa Bay, and the lineup keeps getting better as Matt Rife brings his Stay Golden Tour to Benchmark International Arena. The popular comedian delivers a high energy, 90 minute live show packed with sharp crowd work, quick wit, and nonstop punchlines that keep the audience engaged from start to finish.
March 13 - 14
No matter which house the Sorting Hat placed you in, step back into the wizarding world and experience the magic of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows™ Part 2 live in concert. Witches, wizards, and muggles alike, be warned, the sorcery is intense. Watch your favorite characters return to the big screen as a live orchestra brings every spell, duel, and daring escape to life with theatrical flair. Feel the tension rise as they face formidable opponents, including He Who Must Not be Named. Before the lights dim, be sure to grab a complimentary signature cocktail and a snack to elevate your evening.
March 14
Whether you’re a Pilates expert or just getting started, join JETSET at Armature Works for a free Mat Pilates session. This fast paced, core focused workout is designed to build strength, improve flexibility, and leave you feeling the burn as instructors guide you through every movement. Bring your own mat and water bottle and get ready to sweat, then walk away feeling stronger, more energized, and empowered at one of Tampa Bay’s most vibrant waterfront locations.
March 14
Feel the luck of the Irish right here in Tampa Bay as you join Urban Kai for a festive paddle down the green river this St. Patrick’s Day during the Tampa River O’Green Fest. Glide along the scenic Hillsborough River Paddling Trail and take in stunning views of the waterways and downtown skyline, only this time with a spirited, emerald twist. This vibrant event combines adventure, culture, and a touch of Irish cheer for an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Day on the water.
March 15
The iconic Water Street Sunday Market returns this March with a lively mix of treats, drinks, and unique finds. Held on the third Sunday of each month on Water Street in downtown Tampa, the market runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the cooler months and is free and open to the public. With dozens of local vendors offering handmade goods, fresh produce, baked treats, and one of a kind items, it’s the perfect way to elevate a relaxed weekend morning while supporting small businesses and soaking in the vibrant community atmosphere.
March 14
Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day with downtown’s biggest celebration! Enjoy live music, poetry, and traditional Irish step dancing, along with delicious Irish-themed food and drinks. Take part in fun games like a cabbage toss, a Lucky Charms eating contest, and Irish hurling. Plus, watch as the Hillsborough River gets its annual green color, with a special appearance from Mayor Jane Castor and plenty of prizes and giveaways.
March 14
Happy Pi Day, but not the kind you’re thinking of! On March 14, celebrate Albert Einstein’s birthday, the wonders of math, and the number Pi with an epic pie fight in the park, hosted by the Glazer Children’s Museum. This fun-filled event is the perfect way for kids to burn off energy, laugh, and explore the joy of learning all at once. Free with museum admission, it’s a hands-on experience where education meets messy, delicious enjoyment, making Pi Day a celebration the whole family can enjoy.
March 14
Grab your boots and cowboy hats, country music icon Zach Bryan is coming to town for his 2026 With Heaven On Tour! Join him at Raymond James Stadium on March 14th for a night of heartfelt melodies and lively performances. Sing along to your favorite songs and dance the night away with your loved ones as Zach delivers his signature blend of raw emotion and catchy tunes. It’s more than a concert, it's an evening to create memories, celebrate music, and feel every note straight from the heart.
March 14 & 28
Step into an unforgettable evening at Hilton Garden Inn Tampa, where a real-life immersive game of Clue transforms an elegant dinner into a thrilling mystery experience. As you mingle with your fellow guests, remember that everyone is a suspect and every conversation could reveal a vital clue. Between clever interrogations and whispered suspicions, indulge in a delicious four-course meal featuring perfectly blackened salmon, a roasted pepper stuffed with quinoa, and indulge in a slice of bourbon banana bread to sweetly conclude the evening.
March 16 - 20
This spring break, enroll your kids in an immersive camp experience at MOSI, where learning and fun come together in an engaging environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, and collaboration. Each day, campers dive into exciting hands-on activities centered around science, technology, engineering, math, and the arts, encouraging them to explore new ideas, and build confidence alongside new friends. It’s the perfect balance of discovery and adventure, designed to keep young minds inspired all week long.
March 16
Join MADabolic at Armature Works for a dynamic strength and conditioning workout built around three signature intervals: Momentum, Anaerobic, and Durability. This 50-minute session is designed to challenge you with a fast-paced, high-energy format that keeps you moving from start to finish. Whether you're looking to build strength, boost endurance, or simply switch up your routine, this free community workout is the perfect way to get active and push yourself in an exciting outdoor setting.
March 20 - 22
USF is hosting the first and second rounds of the NCAA at Benchmark International Arena, bringing the thrill of tournament basketball right here to Tampa. If you’re a basketball lover, this is your chance to experience the high-energy atmosphere, buzzer-beaters, and unforgettable moments live and in person. Grab a bite to eat, enjoy a cold beverage, and settle in to watch the action unfold as top teams battle it out on the court. It’s the perfect way to soak up the excitement and be part of the madness.
March 28
Get ready for an unforgettable, all-inclusive, 21+ night packed with up-close wildlife encounters, unlimited food and drinks, live music, games, and nonstop fun. Upgrade to VIP for early entry at 6:30 p.m., a private reception with a live band, exclusive zoo spaces, a special wildlife connection, and a one-of-a-kind gift. Whether you go General Admission or VIP, this is your chance to experience the zoo like never before—after hours and all in.