Earlier this fall, we shared that one of the US’s biggest country festivals was coming to Tampa. And now we have our answer: Country Thunder.
The Kissimmee-based event outgrew its current home, and is making the move to Raymond James Stadium come Friday, May 2 to Sunday, May 4.
Now, for the beef. Who’s playing?
The main headliners are Jelly Roll, Riley Green, and Blake Shelton.
Rounding out the rest of the weekend are:
Ella Langley
Jake Owen
Ashley McByrde
Dillon Carmichael
Chayce Beckham
Clint Black
Owen Riegling
Abby Anderson
Baker Blankenship
Drew Baldridge
The Kentucky Headhunters
Dallas Smith
Angie K
Nolan Sotillo
What’s more, the festival is hosting a giveaway to win two general admission tickets. All you have to do is follow the festival’s pages and tag a friend you’ll go to the show with on this Instagram post.
Vision Board Workshop | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Industrious, St. Petersburg | $40 | Snack on breakfast bites and set new intentions while crafting your own vision board.
Holiday Shopping Event | 10 a.m.-7 p.m. | Tampa Museum of Art | Free entry | Knock out your holiday shopping list with unique gifts made by local artists and vendors, from jewelry and books to home accessories and children’s items.
Poetry at the Dalí | 6-7:30 p.m. | Tombolo Books, St. Petersburg | Free | Former poet laureate of St. Petersburg, Helen Pruitt Wallace hosts Floridian poets Rick Campbell and Asa Drake for a reading and a Q + A.
“Gorey Stories” | Thursday, Nov. 14-Sunday, Nov. 17 | Times vary | Shimberg Playhouse, Tampa | $30 | It’s the final weekend to take in this neo-gothic cabaret featuring wild creatures, weird characters, and humorous, horrid happenings.
Friday, Nov. 15
Season Spectacular | 5-9 p.m. | Water Street Tampa | Free | Kick off the winter season with the unveiling of the neighborhood’s holiday decor, festive food and beverages, themed kids’ activities, and cheerful live entertainment.
Saturday, Nov. 16
The Avett Brothers | 7 p.m. | The BayCare Sound, Clearwater | $45+ | American folk rock band make their debut at the waterfront, outdoor venue.
Sunday, Nov. 17
Bracelets and Bubbles | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Armature Works | $35 | Sip on a mimosa and unleash your creativity with this guided bracelet-making class.
Unfortunately, we aren’t kidding. The National Hurricane Center is watching a system that could grow into Hurricane Sara, and head toward Florida next week. Now’s a good time to make sure your kit is restocked, and review your evacuation plan. (Tampa Bay Times)
Sports
St. Pete Mayor Ken Welch says the city will foot the bill for Tropicana Field’s repairs. An early estimate puts the pricetag at ~$55+ million. The city doesn’t know how much insurance will cover yet, but the stadium should be fixed in time for the 2026 season. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Development
A developer is about to launch sales for Hammock Bay, a new 47-home community, in Apollo Beach. Construction on the $175 million development will begin next year. Once finished, the luxe homes will feature 3,500+ sqft and deep-water access. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Number
8.5%. That’s how much rent went down in the Tampa Bay area in October compared to last year. That’s because “new apartments are being completed at the fastest pace on record” and supply now outweighs demand, according to a Redfin analyst. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Outdoors
Hurricanes Helene and Milton brought down thousands of trees across the Tampa Bay area. We still don’t know how many, but there’s at least 5,000 reported. When replanting, one expert recommends residents consider sturdier varieties, like live oaks. (Tampa Bay Times)
Gallery
Did you know Grammy-nominated rapper Doechii is a Tampa native? The Blake High School grad, aka Jaylah Ji’mya Hickmon, visited her alma mater earlier this week, before playing a sold-out show in Ybor. Take a peek. (Creative Loafing Tampa Bay)
Sports
In other Rays news, could Juan Soto join the team? Get game coverage, analysis, insights, interviews, and more from local experts of the Tampa Bay Rays with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Featured Deal
Final call for the fifth night’s stay free at The Seagate Resort in Delray Beach, FL (plus two free poolside cocktails, and guest-only access to Mr. Seas, its new oceanfront restaurant and lounge). Experience the reimagined property and trade winter chill for sunshine with code WINTER by Friday, Nov. 15.*
A great spot for a minimalist. | Photo by Stephanie and David Bailey via Airbnb
We all need a staycation or a trip to a different city from time to time. Whether you’re a Tampa Bay area local feeling a little cooped up or a visitor looking for a special experience in our beautiful area, picking the perfect home away from home is crucial.
This rental is a great introduction to tiny homes, as it’s not quite as small as other ones you may find. Up to four people can stay here and enjoy the full range of amenities. Plus, the location can’t be beat — it’s in the heart of historic Ybor. The owners of this spot are tiny house aficionados with other similar listings too.
Do you love watermelon? Then why not stay in one? This small watermelon-designed stay is sure to get your taste buds craving some sugar. From the green exterior walls, to the watermelon pillows, paintings, blankets, and murals inside, this thematic spot is a fruitful getaway for up to three people.
I saw my first show at Hooch and Hive last week, and color me obsessed. Let’s finish out 2024 strong by adding some live music to the calendar. This should help.