Summer in Tampa Bay turns up the heat—in the best way. Long, sun-soaked days roll into balmy nights filled with waterfront adventures, poolside lounging, sunset cruises, and live music under the stars. It’s the season for spontaneous boat days, icy cocktails, indoor escapes between splashes, and events that keep the energy high well after dark. Tampa Bay knows how to do summer right.
Tampa Bay Rays Games
Experience the energy of Rays baseball at Tropicana Field. Bring the family, grab some ballpark snacks, and cheer on Tampa Bay as they battle it out on the diamond. With a lively atmosphere, great seats, and all the excitement of America’s pastime, it’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening. Grab your glove and your rally towel, and let’s go Rays! Select dates during the summer.
Sunset Zip Line Adventure
Soar across Tampa Bay‘s first 5-star zip line at sunset. Launch from a 65-foot platform, zip over 3,000 feet across 5 lines, cross a 200-foot suspension bridge, and tackle an aerial obstacle course, all with stunning dusk views. Available weekend nights and select Fridays/weekdays.
AquaGlow
AquaGlow lights up Adventure Island as a family-friendly neon paradise after dark. Expect vibrant lights, music, glowing entertainment, and immersive surprises. Limited capacity means more space to dance and make memories. Don’t miss the hottest summer event of the season. Select dates between May 22 – August 8
Summer Nights
Summer Nights at Busch Gardens runs select dates from May 22 to August 9. After sundown, enjoy extended hours with world-class coasters, live entertainment, the Boom Box Dance Party in Stanleyville, and Beach Bash in Gwazi Plaza. During the day, cool off with the Rhythm of Nature ice show and Icons indoor performance. Plus, summer photo ops and seasonal food, all included with park admission. Select dates between May 22 – August 9
Cigars! Photography, Industry, and Identity
Cigars! pairs historical photos from The Burns Collection with Zack Wittman’s modern images to explore Ybor City’s legacy as the cigar capital. The exhibition marks the 140th anniversary of the first cigar rolled there on April 13, 1885, highlighting how photography has preserved the immigrant traditions and community spirit that still define the city. April 9 – July 19
Keel Farms Summerfest
Beat the heat this summer every Saturday and Sunday from 11AM–5PM at Keel Farms. Enjoy free water slides, bounce houses, food truck eats, and refreshing drinks. Just bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and towel, and we’ll handle the fun. Entry is free for all, so gather the family and make it your new summer tradition. May 31 – August 2
2026 Night Nation Run
Get ready for an unforgettable night at the Night Nation Run, the world’s first running music festival, lighting up Raymond James Stadium on Saturday, June 27. Dash through a neon-soaked course with live DJs, bubble zones, and light shows, then celebrate at an epic after-party main stage, all while supporting Stand Up To Cancer.
Watermelon Weekend
Celebrate summer at Keel Farms during Watermelon Weekend, June 27–28, with a full slate of watermelon-themed fun for all ages. Enjoy local vendors, kids zones, water slides, eating contests, food trucks, and refreshing seasonal wines and ciders—plus everything watermelon. Food will be available exclusively from food trucks, with open seating throughout the property.
Summer Sing-Along: High School Musical (2006)
While its historic auditorium undergoes restoration ahead of its 100th anniversary, Tampa Theatre is going On The Road with free Summer Sing-Along Screenings on select Sundays at Sparkman Wharf, presented by QC. Sing along to High School Musical and enjoy nostalgic fun by the waterfront. The first 100 guests score a free LED fan and Tampa Theatre’s famous popcorn starting at 6 PM. June 28