Support Us Button Widget

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
Whether you want to indulge in a lavish end of year meal or shimmy all night, we’ve got you covered.
Let us know what we should cover in Tampa + the Burg in 2025.
The pocket of Scotland and TBAY sister city is home to thousands of years of history.
Well, maybe not us directly — but TBAY and St. Pete really are the gifts that keep on giving.
As Tampa Bay continues to grow, we’re keeping an eye on upcoming developments and recently-opened businesses.
TBAYtoday readers shared which local restaurants + meals they miss the most — and we think you’ll agree.
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Tampa Bay?
Pack your reusable shopping bags, because we’ve rounded up 12 farmers’ markets around TBAY.
Bookmark this list for when you don’t feel like cheffing it up for the holidays.
We’re checking in on where the Rays might play in 2026, the Bucs’ victorious run, and who’s playing in the ReliaQuest Bowl.