Tampa Riverfest is back

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

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.

More from TBAYtoday
We rounded up six locally approved matcha picks so you can get your green fix.
We wrap up some of our favorite waterfront parks, local businesses, bakeries, and other faves across Tampa and St. Pete
Some of country music’s biggest and rising stars play the 2026 festival right on St. Pete Beach.
A grassroots effort is helping Tampa Bay region properties become part of a nationwide habitat network.
We’re digging in the Cigar City Brewing IPA’s roots, inspiration, and popularity across the United States.
Hi TBAY residents. It’s that time of year again — Spotify Wrapped is out, and so is ours. Ready to see how our year stacked up?
Prepare for winter weather in Hillsborough and Pinellas with these seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks.
Take part in the magical tradition along Florida’s Gulf Coast from the Riverwalk to Madeira Beach.
The 16th annual edition of Small Business Saturday falls on November 29 — the perfect time to help you add a local sparkle into your holiday shopping.
There’s ample Tampa Bay waterways, and we break down some of best ways to explore them.