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Culture  Festivals

Tampa Riverfest is back

The seventh festival includes Hillsborough River races, a wiener dog costume contest, and a lantern parade.

March 27, 2023 • 
Bailey Lefever
Taste of the Riverwalk.jpg

Take in those scenic Riverfront views at the massive event

Photo by Keir Magoulas

We’ve got news for you, TBAY. It’s nearly time to party on — and alongside —the Hillsborough River. The massive (and free) Tampa Riverfest is booked for Friday, May 6-Saturday, May 7.

Here’s a few reasons to get amped for this year’s event:

  • Hit the River Saturday, May 6 with hundreds of your fellow Tampanians in canoes, paddleboards, and surfskis for the Urban Kai Paddle Invasion. Choose from six-mile or twelve-mile race courses — and win prizes.
  • Bring Fido along for the wiener dog race and costume contest also Saturday, May 6. Read more.
  • Extend the Cinco de Mayo celebration to Saturday, May 6 at the new “Riverfiesta” at Curtis Hixon Park with ample braised beef and mojo chicken tacos, Cuban nachos, and ropa vieja bowls.
  • Close out the festival by taking part in the Riverfest Lantern Parade. Purchase a DIY kit online (starting April 1) and attend a lantern-making workshop at Armature Works.

Read more about the event.

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