As we roll into February, the momentum in Tampa Bay remains strong. Gasparilla season continues, alongside highlights like the annual Florida State Fair, an outdoor hockey showcase featuring our fan-favorite Tampa Bay Lightning, and a packed lineup of festivals, events, and outdoor experiences to look forward to all month long.
Tampa Bay Lightning Games
Catch all the action as the Tampa Bay Lightning hit the ice at Benchmark International Arena. From jaw-dropping goals to edge-of-your-seat overtime thrillers, every game is packed with electrifying energy and the roar of Bolts Nation. Don’t miss your chance to experience NHL hockey at its best right here in Tampa Bay. Select dates in February
Black Love Classics Series
Tampa Theatre’s Black Love classic movie series is back for its fifth year, celebrating the connection between Valentine’s Day and Black History Month through love stories told by Black filmmakers and featuring diverse casts. Presented by Tampa Electric (TECO), these screenings are a testament to the beauty of representation and the enduring power of film. Every Sunday in February
Real Music Series
Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay’s longest-running concert series is back, bringing a fresh lineup of live music to the park. Enjoy all-new performances spanning a variety of genres, included with park admission, and experience your favorite rides and attractions between sets. With music, thrills, and an electric atmosphere, this seasonal series is a must-add to any visit. Jan 5 – Feb 20
Mardi Gras
Let the good times roll at this festive celebration, featuring delicious food, handcrafted cocktails, and non-stop entertainment. Immerse yourself in the vibrant sights and sounds of Mardi Gras, with live music, colorful décor, and a lively atmosphere that promises fun for everyone. Dance, dine, and toast to a good time. Jan 24 – March 1
Family and Kids Day at the Downs
Bring your family to thoroughbred racing! Included with your fun-filled day of the on-track action, you will also have the chance to meet track mascot Mouse the Miniature Horse. There will also be pony rides, bounce houses, and a variety of games and special activities. Feb 1, 15, & 22
Fresh Market at Wiregrass
The Fresh Market at Wiregrass features over 50 vendors located on Paseo Drive in the heart of the shopping center. Guests can expect to find a variety of locally grown produce, plants, herbs, and flowers, as well as enjoy locally made take-home foods such as jams, jellies, salsa, dips, seasonings, sauces and oils. The market also features local artists showcasing their creative efforts and eco-friendly products. Feb 21
79th Fiesta Day 2026
Step into the heart of Ybor City at the Ybor Chamber’s Fiesta Day—a free, family-friendly street festival celebrating the rich Cuban, Italian, Spanish, Jewish, and German heritage that shaped this historic neighborhood. Enjoy 7th Avenue closed to traffic and filled with the “Best of Ybor,” from mouthwatering ethnic food and live music to arts, crafts, and cultural entertainment. It’s a lively, all-ages celebration of history, community, and flavor you won’t want to miss. Feb 21
Gasparilla Distance Classic
The Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic Race Weekend is Tampa’s signature road race event, featuring four exciting race distances—15K, 5K, Half Marathon (13.1 miles), and 8K. For those seeking an extra challenge, the weekend offers several race combinations, including the Michelob Ultra Challenge, Pure Gold Challenge, Infusion Challenge, and Organic Seltzer Challenge. With a fast, flat course along the scenic Bayshore Boulevard, this race delivers a memorable race for runners of all abilities. Feb 21 & 22
Strawberry Bash
Celebrate strawberry season at the Strawberry Bash at Keel Farms with a fun-filled day for all ages. Enjoy local vendors and food trucks, strawberry U-pick, camel rides, a strawberry shortcake eating contest, and seasonal wines and ciders. Free admission, no tickets required, dog-friendly, with $10 parking. Feb 21 & 22
Florida Strawberry Festival
Guests from all over descend on Plant City Feb. 26-March 8 to enjoy 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. Feb 26 – March 8
Barry Manilow – The Last Tampa Concert
Don’t miss your chance to see Barry Manilow live in Tampa one last time! Join the legendary singer-songwriter at Benchmark International Arena Feb. 27 for an unforgettable evening of hits, nostalgia, and show-stopping performances. This is the final Tampa stop on his farewell tour—grab your tickets now and be part of music history. Feb 27
An Evening with Audra McDonald: Gala
Broadway icon and six-time Tony Award winner Audra McDonald joins The Florida Orchestra for a truly unforgettable night of vocal brilliance. Experience the power, elegance, and emotion of one of the greatest performers of our time as she brings Broadway favorites and contemporary works to life, conducted by Michael Francis. This is a rare, can’t-miss evening of world-class music and talent. Feb 28
Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts
Every year, downtown Tampa transforms into one giant outdoor museum when hundreds of artists gather for the Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, recognized as one of the top-rated outdoor fine arts festivals in the country. Held at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park Feb. 28-March 1, the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts brings together some of the world’s preeminent artists, hand-selected from over 1,000 submissions, all in one place. Feb 28 – March 1
Monster Jam
Monster Jam brings the ultimate thrill ride to life with colossal 12-foot-tall, 10,000-pound trucks powering through a custom-designed track packed with obstacles to conquer. Watch in awe as these incredible machines race, leap, and smash through intense challenges, delivering non-stop excitement. Feb 28 – March 1