The weekend is almost here and there are tons of exciting things to do in Tampa Bay this weekend!

Earth Day is also coming up on Monday, April 22 and we’ve rounded up some spots around town where you can celebrate our amazing planet this weekend.

20+ FUN Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Weekend

Looking for Things to Do in Tampa Bay?

>>This Week’s Favorite Events
>> Nearby U Pick Farms
>> 40+ Free Things to Do with Kids

The weather is great and blueberry and strawberry picking is in full swing! Check out all the spots around town where you can take advantage of u-pick.

Speaking of being outside, did you hear the news? Busch Gardens has extended its deadline for the Preschool Pass! You have until April 30, 2024 to grab your free pass for kids ages 5 and under that gives them the chance to explore Busch Gardens Tampa Bay AND Adventure Island all year long!

Our weekend guide is divided into multiple sections since there are SO many fun things to do around Tampa Bay! Scroll down for Featured Events for this weekend, Events listed by Date, SAVE THE DATE, What’s on Exhibit, and more fun ideas. So, keep scrolling to find your best day ever!

MORE Tampa Bay family-friendly fun we think you’ll love:

*Be sure to check each event’s social media pages or website to ensure there aren’t any changes due to weather.

Featured Events

Giving the following events an extra shout-out since their support helps us provide this amazing weekend guide to you for free!

The American Stage Production of Disney's Beauty and the Beast in the Park | Wednesdays – Sundays, Through May 5, at 7:30 p.m.

Demens Landing Park, St. Petersburg
Talking teapots and clocks, an emotionally stunted beast, a determined princess – you know the story. American Stage's Park show is the Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast. Per tradition, the beast is really a young prince spellbound to appear as a monster due to his shallow ways, and if he and Belle can fall in love, like really in love, he'll be free. But as most Disney fairy tales go, there's a time crunch. Sing along with us in the park!
Tickets $35

Family Favorites Series at Tampa Theatre presented by Bank of America | Sundays, March 24 – April 28 at 3 pm

Tampa Theatre, Tampa
Tampa Theatre’s kid-inspired movie series returns, bringing beloved family films back to the big screen for a new generation of fans! Chosen specifically with families in mind, experience the nostalgia seeing your favorite movies from childhood and sharing them with the kiddos – at the oldest most iconic theater in Tampa! The next showing on Sunday, April 21 is Hook.
Tickets: $10 for grownups and $8 for kids ages 3-12.

Blueberry Festival Weekends | April 20-28, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Amber Brooke Farms, Williston
Celebrate blueberry season at the annual blueberry festival. Pick your own blueberries from one of four different varieties. Experience our 25+ family activities plus special contests and games, including a pie eating contest, blueberry slingshots, and photos with the blueberry mascot. Don’t forget to bring an appetite and indulge in a variety of blueberry infused eats, including cakes, lemonade, slushies, and more.
Tickets: are $15 online. Buy your tickets now before they sell out!

LEGO® Ferrari Race & Build Experience at LEGOLAND Florida Resort | Now Open!

Winter Haven
Prepare to become the ultimate race car driver at this interactive experience for the whole family. The moment guests enter the attraction, they are greeted by a life-size LEGO® Ferrari 296 GTS model followed by interactive zones for guests to hop into the driver’s seat by building, tweaking, and racing their own car creations. Get a FIRST LOOK at the LEGO Ferrari exhibit here!

Australia at ZooTampa | Now Open!

Tampa
ZooTampa’s latest expansion is now open! This new area features the new family-friendly safari ride, Aussie Trek. Other enhancements include the reimagined Billabong Splash Pad, a new play area, and expanded wallaby viewing area. Guests can also partake in the new Wallaby Signature Encounter, along with the returning Koala Signature Encounter. The Lil Joey Family Stop also provides parents and nursing moms a private place to tend to smaller children. There are also two new food and beverage locations, and a special event beginning at 3 pm daily called Sunset Sips, where families can enjoy a DJ dance party along with BOGO food and drinks at the Boomerang Bar!

Austalia at ZooTampa — The new ZooTampa mascot at the all-new Australia realm!

Things to Do on Friday, April 19

Amazing Athletes at Armature Works | Friday, April 19 from 10 am to 11 am

Tampa
There are two classes offered. Amazing Tots and Amazing Athletes classes are based on your child’s age and ensure a tailored program to suit their developmental needs. Classes take place every Friday, kids can commit to the remaining weekly program or drop in for a class. Amazing Athletes uses a multi-sport program to benefit children aged 18 months to 6 years old. The program introduces the fundamentals of 10 different sports (soccer, hockey, volleyball, basketball, tennis, lacrosse, football, track and field, baseball, and golf) in a non-competitive environment.

Sunset Zip Line Adventures at Empower Adventures Tampa Bay | Friday, April 19 at 3:30 pm

Oldsmar
Tour guides will lead you through a 2.5-hour unforgettable sunset zip line tour, all while taking in the breathtaking Florida views! Gain a new perspective on fun, beginning with their 60-foot tall start tower, 5 zip lines varying in length and totaling over 3,000′, a 200-foot suspension bridge along with an adventure course with log bridges, cable traverses, and poles!

Community Night Market at Main Street Zephyrhills | Friday, April 19 from 5 pm – 9 pm

Zephyrhills
The Community Nigh Market offers the opportunity for local “Mompreneur” small businesses to showcase their businesses to the surrounding communities. Guests can enjoy supporting local businesses, trying out local food trucks, and more.

Earth Fair at RE Olds Park | Friday April 19 from 5 pm-7 pm

Oldsmar
Celebrate the Earth by playing games that improve your knowledge of the environment and how to preserve it. Stick around for the movie in the park afterward – a showing of The Lorax at 7:00.

Disney’s The Aristocats Kids at The Straz Center | Friday, April 19 at 7 pm

Tampa
Adapted from the beloved animated Disney film, Aristocats is a delightful tale filled with music, laughter, and friendship. Set in the heart of Paris, this nostalgic score and lovable characters will captivate audiences of all ages. Go on a whimsical journey with this lovable aristocratic feline family and their jazzy alley cat friends as we explore the timeless themes of family, loyalty and the power of dreams.

Fortnite Friday at Esports Players Club | Friday, April 19 from 7 pm – 8:30 pm

Tampa
This exciting under-18 Fortnite tournament is now happening again every week! Compete for Vbucks and enjoy delicious pizza while you’re at it. Be sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time.

Glo in the Park at Altitude Trampoline Park | Friday, April 19 from 7 pm – 10 pm

Tampa
Get ready to party and jump GLOW style! Admission includes pizza and a bottle of water. Altitude safety socks are required (not included).

Friday Night Meltdown Public Skate at AdventHealth Ice Center | Friday, April 19 from 7:45 pm – 9:45 pm

Wesley Chapel
Start your weekend off on the right skate on the ice for a 2-hour public skate session! There will be a live DJ, colored lights and so much more!

Things to Do on Saturday, April 20

Tampa Bay Kids Triathlon at Adventure Island | Saturday, April 20 at 7:15 am

Tampa
Imagine racing through one of the world’s best water parks! The TBKT offers youth athletes, experienced and first-timers alike, the unique opportunity to swim, bike and run in and around Busch Gardens’ premier water park. The triathlon will include a 200 meter swim, 1.5 mile bike, and 0.5 mile run. The first 400 registrants will also receive a complimentary “stay and play” ticket! Participants will be separated into three waves for the race which will be categorized by age range.

4th Annual St. Pete Earth Day | Saturday, April 20 from 9 am-1 pm

Tampa
This free family event will feature live music, vendors, free face painting, games, contests, workshops, clothing swap, and more! Paint canvases using paint made from 70% reclaimed paint, participate in an eco-friendly fashion, art, and writing contest, and enjoy farm activities.

Earth Day Birthday: A Springtime Conservation Celebration | Saturday, April 20 from 9 am-2 pm

Tarpon Springs
Head to Brooker Creek Preserve Education Center for a special celebration of the Environmental Education Center's 20th birthday and the Friends' 30th year providing support for the Preserve. Explore the Education Center and take part in hands-on activities, and the wonders of Our Wildest Place! This family-friendly event will include guided hikes, touch-a-truck, workshops, a green career expo, a free tree giveaway, and so much more! Then, sing Happy Birthday to them at 2 pm in the auditorium! Stay for cupcakes and celebrate with the County officials who work to keep the Preserve wild! The event is free however, some activities require pre-registration as space and materials are limited.

49th annual Mainsail art festival | Saturday, April 20 from 9 am-2 pm

St. Petersburg
See over 250 artists from all over, enjoy live music, a culinary arts food court, kids activities, and more.

Hundsader Farms First Annual Flower Festival | Saturday, April 20 from 9 am-5 pm

Bradenton
Hundsader Farms will have multiple fields of cut your own flowers, hayrides, train rides, pony rides, live bands, food vendors, craft vendors, fresh produce, petting zoo, gem mining, and more. Admission is $15 per person and includes admission to the fields (picking cups required and sold separately).

STEM Saturday at Glazer Family JCC | Saturday, April 20 from 10 am to 12 pm

Tampa
Kids ages 4-12 can participate in a STEM-tastic Saturday! They’ll be diving into the world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math with hands-on experiments and engaging activities!

DIY Kids Workshop at Lowe’s | Saturday, April 20 from 10 am-1 pm

Various Locations
DIY Kids' Workshops are free, monthly, in-store events designed to inspire the next generation of builders while growing their confidence and DIY skillset. This month, stop in to create a free Garden Cart Planter! While supplies last.

Weekend Workshop at Bricks 4 Kidz | Saturday, April 20 from 10 am to 1 pm

Tampa
Weekend Workshops are a great way for your child to enjoy a fun and engaging indoor activity on a Saturday! Whether you have a LEGO enthusiast, want your child to meet friends, looking for fun a weekend activity, or if you are a parent that needs some free time on a Saturday to run errands, a Bricks 4 Kidz Weekend Workshop has a little something for everyone! This Saturday, the theme will be LEGO Ninjas!

EcoFest at MOSI | Saturday, April 20 from 10 am-3 pm

Tampa
Join MOSI and Learning Gate Community School to celebrate the organizations and individuals in the Tampa Bay area dedicated to the Principles of Sustainability, Ecology, Equity, and Economy. Enjoy live music, demonstrations, green living products, local artists, organic farm products, and more!

Healthy Kids Day at YMCA | Saturday, April 20 from 10 am-1 pm

Various Locations
Healthy Kids Day is the Y’s national initiative to improve the health and well-being of kids and families. For over 30 years, YMCAs and their communities hosted free community events aimed to inspire kids and families to keep their minds and bodies active throughout the summer months and beyond.

Family Fun Festival and Parade at Northdale Recreation Center | Saturday, April 20 from 10 am- 2 pm

Tampa
The Northdale Civic Association in partnership with Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation proudly presents the 2024 Northdale Family Fun Fest! Festivities kick off at 10 am with a parade led by the Gaither High School Marching Band. Food vendors will also be onsite along with kids games and inflatables, swag from local businesses, a children's bike rodeo, live entertainment, and more.

Sunflower Festival at Dade City Farms | Saturday, April 20 from 10 am to 4 pm

Dade City
You’ll have the chance to pick your own flowers, enjoy photo ops throughout the farm, shop from local vendors, play at their petting zoo and so much more!!

Keel Farms Blueberry Festival | Saturday, April 20 from 10 am to 3 pm

Plant City
Keel Farms annual Blueberry Festival will feature u-pick blueberries, live music, camel rides, a petting zoo, bounce houses, vendors, a kid’s area, and more. Entry is free, parking is $10.

Moonpreneur Robotics Workshop | Saturday, April 20 from 11 am to 5 pm

Land O Lakes
Kids can learn an introduction to robotics and coding, perform hands-on exercises on robotics, experience their teaching methodology, meet other like-minded students in the workshop, and more

Instrument Petting Zoo with The Florida Orchestra at the Henry B. Plant Museum | Saturday, April 20 from 12 pm- 2 pm

Tampa
The Florida Orchestra will provide 15–20-minute demonstrations of various instruments and children and visitors will have the opportunity to examine, experience, and play the instruments with help from Florida Orchestra staff and volunteers. Instruments include strings, horns, flutes, various percussion, and more! The Instrument Petting Zoo will take place in the Music Room of Plant Hall. Open to ages 5 and up.

Pasco County Beer and Burger Festival at Land O Lakes Heritage Park | Saturday, April 20 from 12 pm- 6 pm

Land O Lakes
This family-friendly event includes over 10 Artisan Burger Chefs this year, and at least 11 Craft Brewers with in-person sampling of more than 30 different flavors of unique brews, and 3 live music performances on the beautiful Heritage Park stage, plus sponsored giveaways, shop local market, and fun activities between sets on stage.

Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival at Perry Harvey Sr. Park | Saturday, April 20 from 12 pm – 10 pm

Tampa
The family-oriented festival weekend consists of a street parade, live concert, J’ouvert celebration, Carnival Queen show, Steel Pan, vending village, kids’ entertainment, and much more.

Country Fest at Raprager Farm | Saturday, April 20 at 12 pm

Oldsmar
Enjoy live music, activities, and more! Activities include mechanical bull, hayrides, animal petting zoo, 80’ bounce pillow, axe throwing, corn pit, 2,000 square foot kids fort, hay chute slide, corn hole games, butterfly garden, photo ops, pony rides, and more.

Disney’s The Aristocats Kids at The Straz Center | Saturday, April 20 at 1 pm and 4 pm

Minecraft Mania at MOSI | Saturday, April 20 from 1 pm – 3 pm

Tampa
You've mined for diamonds, traded emeralds, and built a portal to a whole new realm. Now it's time to put those skills you've learned along the way to the test in MOSI's Minecraft Mania! You'll get a chance to play on individual, small-team, and full-team challenges as you work on perfecting your mining strategies, enchanting your tools and armor, defending a city from an alien attack, or even learning some basic coding! Children registered for Minecraft Mania will also receive general admission to the museum for no additional cost.

Cyber Bowling Kid’s Matinee at Pin Chaser’s | Saturday, April 20 from 12 pm – 4 pm (Veterans) and 1 pm – 5 pm (Midtown)

Tampa
Cyber Bowling is the fusion of high-energy entertainment and bowling. Your favorite music and club lighting create a glowing, nightclub-like atmosphere while you bowl. Special family matinees feature family-appropriate music so families can enjoy the fun together at an earlier time.

Esports Open Play at Northdale Recreation Center | Saturday, April 20 from 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm

Tampa
Esports specialists will be on hand to inspire and encourage new social skills, help develop gaming fundamentals, and set a safe, inclusive, and positive social environment. Their coaches are Esports competitors who have the skills and experience to help any player develop and grow their skills to perform better in competitions. In addition to developing Esports skills, participants socialize with like-minded competitors and make new friends in a high-energy environment.

Sunset Zip Line Adventures at Empower Adventures Tampa Bay | Saturday, April 20 at 3:30 pm

Absolutely Avalon at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel | Saturday April 20 from 5 pm- 9 pm

Wesley Chapel
Celebrate diversity in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel! There will be international food and music, bounce houses, community performances, a laser light show, and more!

Toy Box Adventure at Chick Fil A West Hillsborough | Saturday April 20 from 6 pm- 8 pm

Tampa
Embark on a thrilling Toy Box Adventure and set out on a scavenger hunt to find the missing toys! Plus, enjoy a visit from the Chick-fil-A cow, activities, and balloon twisting. At Chick-fil-A West Hillsborough, while supplies last.

Glo in the Park at Altitude Trampoline Park | Saturday, April 20 at 7 pm

Tampa
Head to Altitude Trampoline Park for an epic glow-in-the-dark jump! Includes pizza and a bottle of water. Jump socks are required.

Things to Do on Sunday, April 21

Day of Discovery at Florida Aquarium | Sunday, April 21 from 8 am-9:30 am

Tampa
A Day of Discovery provides an Aquarium experience specifically tailored to individuals with sensory differences and their families. Days of Discovery are hosted by The Florida Aquarium in partnership with the Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (C.A.R.D.) at the University of South Florida. Day of Discovery has limited capacity and is reserved for families and children with sensory differences and/or accessibility challenges. Special effects, lights and music will be adapted for those with sensory differences.

49th Annual Mainsail Art Festival | Sunday, April 21 from 9 am-2 pm

St. Petersburg
See over 250 artists from all over, enjoy live music, a culinary arts food court, kids activities, and more.

Hundsader Farms First Annual Flower Festival | Sunday, April 21 from 9 am-5 pm

Earth Day Paddle 2024 | Sunday, April 21 from 10 am- 11:30 am

Tampa
Head to Armature Works for a group paddle to celebrate Earth Day! This is a beginner-level paddle (basic level of paddling needed). You can rent SUPs or single kayaks for $45, double kayaks for $65, or bring your own for $15. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the paddle to check-in.

Keel Farms Blueberry Festival | Sunday, April 21 from 10 am to 3 pm

The Market: Earth Day Celebration | Sunday, April 21 from 10 am to 3 pm

Tampa
Head to the Market at Water Street to shop over 60 local food and wellness foused vendors serving up homemade, handcrafted, fair-trade, vintage, or eco-friendly products Dive into the world of marine conservation with The Florida Aquarium, sign up for a beach clean-up with Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, watch local artists transform recycled materials into art, express your love for Earth Day with special Earth Day face painting, listen to live music, and more!

Sunflower Festival at Dade City Farms | Sunday, April 21 from 10 am to 4 pm

Dade City
You’ll have the chance to pick your own flowers, enjoy photo ops throughout the farm, shop from local vendors, play at their petting zoo and so much more!!

Earth Day Celebration at Armature Works | Sunday, April 21 from 11 am- 4 pm

Tampa
Start your Sunday at Yoga with Cocoon Yoga and Fitness Studios at 9:30 am (registration required). Then, join Urban Kai for a special Earth Day Paddle Board experience at 10:00 am (registration required) Guests are invited to take a stroll through their Eco-Friendly Market, comprised of several local eco-friendly and sustainable artisans and food trucks from 11 am-4 pm. There will be a free craft station, including paints and river rocks where guests can create their own Kindness Rock.

Roll and Rescue with Humane Society Tampa Bay at Skate World of Tampa | Sunday, April 21 from 11 am – 1 pm

Tampa
Love Skating? Love Dogs? This is definitely the event for you! Skate World has partnered up with the Humane Society Tampa Bay to raise money and find some pups their FURever homes! Admission includes your skate rental, a slice of cheese pizza and small soda. $5 from every admission goes right back to HSTB! The Humane Society will also be on site with ADOPTABLE PETS, giveaways, information and more! Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind event, where you can skate, have fun, meet some awesome furry friends and maybe even adopt one!

Princess Cruise at Yacht Starship Cruises | Sunday, April 21 from 11:30 am-2 pm

Tampa
Princes and Princesses of all ages are welcome to come aboard this magical cruise out of Tampa. The 2-hour cruise will include a boarding photo opportunity with a princess followed by a lunch buffet where Parties with Character Princesses will visit each table. After lunch, guests are welcome to join the princesses for a sing-along and DJ dance party on the top deck.

Cyber Bowling Kid’s Matinee at Pin Chasers | Sunday, April 21 from 12 pm to 4 pm (Veterans) and 1 pm to 5 pm (Midtown)

Tampa
Cyber Bowling is the fusion of high energy entertainment and bowling. Your favorite music and club lighting create a glowing, nightclub-like atmosphere while you bowl. Special family matinees feature family-appropriate music so families can enjoy the fun together at an earlier time.

Country Fest at Raprager Farm | Sunday, April 21 at 1 pm

Disney’s The Aristocats Kids at The Straz Center | Sunday, April 21 at 1 pm and 4 pm

Earth Day Celebration at Chase Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservancy | Sunday, April 21 from 1 pm-6 pm

Webster
Experience live butterfly releases, animal education, and more as you stroll through the sanctuary. Interactive Animal Experiences are also available. This year’s event features live music, local vendors and food trucks! This event is for ages 8 and up.

Family Favorites Series at Tampa Theatre presented by Bank of America | Sunday, April 21 at 3 pm

Tampa
Tampa Theatre’s kid-inspired movie series returns, bringing beloved family films back to the big screen for a new generation of fans! Chosen specifically with families in mind, experience the nostalgia seeing your favorite movies from childhood and sharing them with the kiddos – at the oldest most iconic theater in Tampa! Tickets: $10 for grownups and $8 for kids ages 3-12. This Sunday, catch a showing of Hook.

Sunday Family R&B Skate at United Skates of America | Sunday, April 21 from 5:30 pm – 8 pm

Tampa
Skate to family-friendly R&B music! Admission is $14 including skates/$11 with your own skates.

Save the Date for these Not-to-Miss Events in Tampa Bay:

THINGS TO DO: See What’s on Exhibit in Tampa Bay

Prehistoric Predators at ZooTampa | Now – April, 2024

ZooTampa
Come face to face with giant animatronic ferocious predators of the past at the new Prehistoric Predators exhibit at ZooTampa! Discover animals not seen for centuries like the dire wolf from the Ice Age or an allosaurus from the Mesozoic Age as they come to life. You’ll also learn the important role predators play in our ecosystem and how they relate to species in today’s age. Included with general admission.

a-MAZE-ing Butterflies at MOSI | Now – May 5, 2024

Tampa
This new 5,000-square-foot exhibit at MOSI features interactive stations that guide visitors through each stage of a butterfly’s life – from egg to caterpillar to pupa to butterfly! Slip your feet into caterpillar legs to mimic their movement, become a larva, climb oversized leaves, and see the world from a baby butterfly’s point of view. Make your way through the special hairs of the Velcro passionflower designed to trap caterpillars and understand the challenges adult butterflies face by climbing a rope wall representing a giant spider web.

See the World’s Largest Triceratops at Glazer Children’s Museum

Tampa
Big John, the world’s largest fossil triceratops is now on display at Glazer Children’s Museum for a three-year exhibition. For the first time, the museum is waiving its requirement that adults attend the museum with a child, to ensure everyone has a chance to see Big John nose to snout for themselves. While you do not need a reservation to go to the museum, you will need to book a timeslot to see Big John. This will eliminate crowds so you can make the most out of the experience. Learn more about how to plan your day to see Big John the Triceratops here.

MORPH’D at The Florida Aquarium

Tampa
This all-new exhibit features 18 species with unique adaptations from around the globe including axolotyls! Check out the adorable axolotl, peculiar paddlefish, and charming chameleon. Located in the new Mosaic Exhibit Hall, the gallery will also feature hands-on interactives that will give you a sense of what it is like to be one of these amazing creatures, connecting you with nature in a whole new way. Included with general admission.

MOSI’s DC Superheroes Exhibit – through May 5, 2024

Tampa
Your child’s favorite superheroes are featured in this brand-new exhibit in the big dome (formerly the IMAX tehater and soon-to-be the largest planetarium in Florida!). Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman are among the characters who will be part of the action as you solve mysteries and immerse yourself in interactive challenges. Learn more about the DC Universe Superheroes exhibit here.

Fairgrounds St. Pete – Open Thursday-Sunday

Fairgrounds St. Pete is an immersive art experience has made its mark in Tampa Bay! There are more than 70 artists featured. You can go and simply enjoy the whimsical art that celebrates weird, wacky, wonderful Florida or choose a different adventure and try to crack the codes and mysteries you’ll find throughout. Its newest exhibit Shrimpfinity embodies all of that–and it just might be your new favorite spot to snap the coolest photos with the kids! While you’re there, let the kids explore this unique immersive art exhibit that puts all of your senses to work. It’s truly something you’ve never seen or experienced before! Learn more about Fairgrounds St. Pete.

Zubrick Magic Theatre

St. Pete
Experience wonder in St. Pete’s only magic theatre! The Zubrick Magic Theatre is a spectacular venue that gives audiences an intimate and unforgettable evening of magical entertainment. Illusionists Chris & Ryan Zubrick conjure up an exhilarating blend of sleight-of-hand, family-friendly comedy, and breathtaking grand-scale illusions in a 70-minute performance that captures hearts and imaginations. Conveniently located in downtown St. Petersburg, FL., the Zubrick Magic Theatre guarantees to stretch smiles and drop jaws with a performance that will leave you walking away scratching your head in disbelief saying, “How did they do that?!” Get your tickets now before they all… DISAPPEAR!
Read More: Get your tickets to Tampa Bay’s ONLY magic show before they all … disappear!

Paws for Literacy at Humane Society of Tampa Bay | Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:45 pm – 4 pm

Tampa
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay gives children who love animals a chance to spend time with them while catching up on their reading or improving their reading skills. Children are paired with homeless pets who love to hear the stories and look at the pictures. The program is offered for children ages 5 and up. They’ll provide reading stools, books, and treats (for the animals), but children are welcome to bring their own books if they wish. Books provided include animal tales, stories of the animal-human bond, and books that teach empathy to young readers. Supervised by a Florida state certiﬁed teacher.

Ruskin Family Drive-In | Wednesdays-Sundays

The Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre has over 50 years of continuous service to the Ruskin and South Hillsborough County. It’s been a community gathering place since its first movie, “Singing in the Rain” played in 1952. They offer great movies, good food, and peace and quiet on a continuous basis with a 2000 square foot screen, clean restrooms, snack bar and clean parking lot. Please note: you must bring a portable radio with you or use the radio in your car to hear the movie. There will be no showings on Monday and Tuesday.

Parents’ Nights Out!

While family time is fun, it’s also important to carve some time out for yourself, whether it’s a night out with your significant other, friends, or some solo time. Several places around the Tampa area are hosting Parents’ Nights Out! For a fee, you can drop your kids off for some fun activities and playtime while you get an evening out!

Playgrounds of Tampa | Second and Fourth Friday of Every Month from 6 pm – 10 pm
For four hours, your kids will be entertained with games, movies and bounce houses galore (maybe even with some pizza) while you do whatever you want. Participants must be potty trained, ages 4 and up. Cost is $30 per child. Click here to register.

Humane Society of Tampa Bay | Last Friday of Every Month from 6 pm – 10 pm
Kids ages 5 and up will enjoy playing with the shelter animals, dinner, and watching a movie with furry friends! This program takes place monthly and registration is required. The dogs and cats can’t wait to party! Cost is $50 per child. Includes pizza dinner and drinks. To register, click here.

Jubilee Gymnastics | Second and Fourth Friday of Every Month from 6 pm – 9:30 pm
Drop off the kids to eat, play, and have fun at Jubilee Gymnastics in Ruskin while you enjoy a night out. Pre-registration is highly encouraged as these will fill up quickly. For kids ages 4 and up. Cost is $30 per child for members/$35 for non-members. Includes pizza and drinks! Click here to sign up.

Cypress Forest Park | Last Friday of Every Month from 6 p.m. – 10:30 pm
Take a night off while your children enjoy themed fun at Cypress Forest Park in Oldsmar! Pizza dinner are included. For kids ages 5-12. Cost is $10 for kids with a rec card and $15 for kids without. Click here to learn more.

More ideas to spark a weekend of lifelong memories!

Upgrade your day at ZooTampa with an animal encounter!
If you’re planning a day at ZooTampa, we love upgrading our experience with the kids with animal encounters like feeding the giraffes or rhinos. We recently booked a time to feed a Jamie the Indian White Rhino with our 5 year old and he had a great time. Baby rhino Gronk even hung out for snacks! You do have to wear a face mask during the encounter, but you can remove it for a photo. Learn more here.

Snap a mural selfie and help provide a free eye exam and glasses for a local child!
Head over to Armature Works to check out the NEW mural on the north end of the property created to promote the Glazer Vision Foundation’s “Glasses For All Children” campaign. All you have to do is share a photo of the mural, a selfie in front of the mural, or selfie wearing any type of glasses, tag @glazervisionfdn, hashtag #OneShareOnePair and the foundation will give a local child a free eye exam, and pair of glasses! Easy peasy! Learn more.

Check out the St. Pete Pier
Eat, drink, shop and play at the new St. Pete Pier. The new playground area is quickly becoming a family favorite in Tampa Bay, just make sure to bring plenty of hand sanitizer and/or hand sanitizing wipes with you. Stay late and look up to see the Bending Arc light up in a spectacular display. You will need to wear a mask inside the stores, restaurants, and Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center. The Glazer Vision Foundation just announced it is contributing $1.5 million to the Glazer Family Playground at the Pier to support the space for years to come! Learn more.

FREE Resouces to Explore!

Children’s Board Family Resource Centers
The program provides parents and caregivers and their children an opportunity to participate in parent/child developmental playgroups, developmental screenings, and health and safety education classes at no cost. In addition, pediatric well-child visits, immunizations and hearing or vision screenings are provided for qualifying families. To sign up for programs and services, and to find your neighborhood Children’s Board Family Resource Center visit familysupporthc.org.

Learn & Play Tampa Bay Playgroups
The program provides quality early learning experiences at no cost at the seven children’s Board Family Resource Centers and other designated Hillsborough County sites. The program also delivers weekly in-person and online virtual developmental classes and provides take home activities that promote early learning and school readiness at no cost. tbp1.wpengine.com/lets-play-tampa-bay/

Outdoorsy Things to Do in Tampa Bay

Head to the beach!
The beaches are open, but you’ll see plenty of reminders about social distancing. You’ll also want to pack some extras in your beach bag like hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes. Cloth masks are also a good idea in case you decide to visit an establishment that requires them. We’re sharing some of our favorite family-friendly beaches in Tampa Bay here.

Go for a hike!
Lace up the hiking shoes and spend the day in nature with the kids! Many preserves and conservation parks are now open in Tampa Bay. Find a park near you or discover a new one:

Weekend Farmers Markets in Tampa Bay this Weekend

Saturday Morning Market at Williams Park in St. Pete | Saturdays from 9 am -1 pm
Experience one of the top farmers markets in the U.S.! Expect an estimated 170 vendors selling their goods and artisans selling their crafts. Add stellar food choices for dining and live music for entertainment and it’s a perfect day in the Florida sunshine. Their Summer Market, located at Williams Park, typically runs from June to August.

Dunedin Downtown Market | Saturdays from 9 am-1 pm
The Dunedin Downtown Market at John Lawrence Pioneer Park features 40+ local merchants and vendors including fresh fruits and vegetables.

Fresh Market at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel | Select Saturdays from 10 am-2 pm
There are 60+ vendors expected at the Fresh Market at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel including organic and hydroponically grown produce.

Corey Avenue Market in St. Pete Beach | Sundays from 9 am- 1 pm
Corey Avenue Market features more than 70 local vendors and merchants selling everything from crafts, art, food and locally grown produce.

Ybor City Saturday Market in Tampa | Every Saturday from 9 am-1 pm
The Ybor City Saturday Market is the largest continually operating outdoor market in the Tampa Bay Area. Centered in Tampa’s Historic District, the market is one of the most popular shopping destinations for locally produced items unique to the Tampa Bay Area. Features locally made arts, crafts, and gourmet foods representing the area.

The Market Elaine at Wesley Chapel | First Friday of Every Month
Head to The Grove in Wesley Chapel for a unique evening market featuring tons of local businesses! Enjoy local vendors, live music, food, and more. themarketculture.com

Hyde Park Fresh Market in Tampa | First Sunday of Every Month from 10 am -3 pm
Hyde Park Fresh Market features over 80 local vendors including produce, handcrafted goods, plants, and more. While you shop, enjoy live music by Gasparilla Music in Village Circle.

Carrollwood Market | Select Saturdays from 10 am-2 pm
Head to the Carrollwood Cultural Center to explore 60+ local vendors and businesses.

Westchase Locale Market | Every Second Saturday from 10 am – 3 pm
Enjoy live music and over 30 vendors in Westchase Town Center every second Saturday of the month.

Celebrate the Weekend in Orlando!

Want MORE ideas for fun adventures in Orlando or Walt Disney World? We’ve got more here! You can also follow our media partners at OrlandoDateNightGuide.com

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