Spring is here, and if you’re looking for fun in the sun this May, look no further than Tampa Bay! It’s the perfect time of year to check out a local market, take in the waterfront views, and even experience vibrant cultural events. Check out some of our favorite events and festivals happening this May in Tampa Bay!
May 2 & 25
Explore one of Tampa Bay’s bustling new neighborhoods at the Sunset Market in Midtown Tampa! On the first Thursday of every month, guests can enjoy live music at sunset as they browse over 40 local vendors, including artists and jewelry makers from around the Bay area. Or try the Sunrise Market, a similar market, on the fourth Saturday of every month.
May 3 - 4
Riverfest returns to Tampa Bay! This free two-day event will feature family-friendly activities and events that showcase the best of the Tampa Riverwalk. Live music, food vendors, and local institutions will be at the forefront of this event. The festival includes activities like the wiener dog derby, a water ski show, the Taste of the Riverwalk on Friday night, and a balloon glow at sunset on both nights.
May 4
Urban Kai and Friends of the Riverwalk will host this year’s Paddle Invasion, where Paddleboards, Surfskis, and Outrigger Canoes will invade the city of Tampa! For those ready to join the invasion, there is a 6-mile and 2-mile option for paddlers of all levels. This is a ticketed event, and participants must register in advance.
May 4 - 5
Presented by the Tampa City Ballet, “If I Cry” brings Frida Kahlo’s diaries to life. Audiences will once again witness “If I Cry,” the ballet’s captivating performance reflecting on the life of the colorful, dynamic, and legendary Mexican artist Frida Kahlo.
May 6
Join the Tampa Bay History Center in the heart of Tampa’s historic neighborhood, the Scrub, for an electrifying celebration of Tampa’s Emancipation Day (May 6)! Revel in the triumphs of freedom and unity as we unite to honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future. With music, food, and companionship, this event promises to be a testament to our community’s resilience and spirit.
May 11
Experience a cultural celebration of Asian and Pacific Islander culture! The annual celebration will take place at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park from 12 pm to 9 pm and features live performances, delicious foods, informational exhibits, and much more. Anyone interested in attending the event is encouraged to bring chairs and blankets to enjoy the fun and festivities.
May 12
Spend your Sunday strolling through the Gathering event space, perusing our carefully curated, local market of artisanal makers and merchants selling handmade goods, jewelry, apothecaries, candles, apparel, and more. Second Sunday Market + Art Walk takes place every second Sunday of the month from 11 am – 3 pm.
May 13
The Tampa Museum of Art invites you to fall down the rabbit hole into a world of whimsy and wonder at this year’s Pride & Passion: Wonderland. Marking the 18th anniversary of Pride & Passion, immerse yourself in a realm of imaginative delight and celebrate the LGBTQ+ culture of Tampa Bay. The museum will transform into a Wonderland of extraordinary proportions, offering guests a night of themed drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and an array of performances throughout the space.
May 18
Join J.C. Newman Cigar Company for its fourth annual ‘Founder’s Day’ celebration at its historic cigar factory and celebrate the founding of the company (May 5) and the birthday of its founder (May 26). Visitors can take a free tour of the factory, explore the cigar museum, peruse the factory store, or just celebrate outside by enjoying live music, food trucks, lawn games, and more! The event and museum are free and will be open to the public for exploring for the entirety of the day.
May 18
After countless requests, twelve years of overwhelming success, and trendsetting cultural diversity, Florida’s Most Iconic and Traditional community festival is coming closer to “your hearts.” On May 18th, and for the first time in 12 years, Tampa will host the 13th Edition of the Annual Brazilian Festival.
Starting May 18
This summer, Tampa Bay becomes a prehistoric playground as LEGO Dinosaurs take over! Beginning May 18, experience the thrill as brick-built dinosaurs, from miniature marvels to a life-sized, 12-foot-long raptor-like Masiakasaurus, make their grand entrance. Dive into a world of ancient creatures and ignite your imagination. Gather your family and create your own LEGO dinosaur masterpiece. Don't miss this unforgettable adventure into the age of dinosaurs!
May 25 - 26
Presented by UEG Productions, Inc., the third annual Uptown Music Festival is returning to Tampa Bay! This event will showcase Tampa Bay’s rich culture through music. Guests can enjoy art, food, and more at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park while enjoying internationally renowned artists such as DW3, José Valentino & Charlton Singleton, and Kayla Waters.
May 26
Celebrate Memorial Day at the 13th Annual International Cuban Sandwich Festival! This free event takes place in historic Ybor City, the birthplace of the Cuban Sandwich. It features live music, cultural entertainment, and the best Cuban Sandwiches in the world. Come see contestants and chefs from all over the world compete for the grand prize, a GOLDEN TICKET to the World Food Championships!