Multiple festivals top the list of weekend events expected to draw large crowds and congestion beginning Friday, May 2. Drivers are advised to plan ahead and consider alternative transportation options.
Country Thunder Festival – Raymond James Stadium
This three-day music festival is the weekend’s largest event, drawing an estimated 35,000 attendees over the course of the weekend. Gates open around noon on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Slowdowns and police-directed traffic are expected in the area surrounding the stadium.
Tampa Riverfest – Curtis Hixon Park
Taking place Friday and Saturday, Riverfest is expected to attract nearly 10,000 attendees, with the peak crowd anticipated on Saturday.
BBQ Love Fest – Perry Harvey Sr. Park
BBQ enthusiasts will gather on Saturday, May 3, from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Sunday Events – May 4
Country Thunder Festival continues.
- The 2 Bears 5K starts at 7:30 AM at Raymond James Stadium. While the run is contained inside the stadium, expect crowds arriving early in the area.
- SOF Week move-in begins at the Tampa Convention Center.
- -SOF Week runs May 5-8 with road / lane closures planned around the Tampa Convention Center including along S. Franklin Street and Water Street. (This year's event WILL NOT include the capabilities demo, that occurs every other year)
Getting Around
To help ease congestion, the City of Tampa’s Mobility Department encourages the use of alternative transportation options such as the FREE TECO Streetcar, DASH service, rentable scooters, or HART buses. Please use caution and be alert when traveling near any event venue. Allow extra travel time and check local traffic updates before heading out.
For the latest road closure information visit: Tampa.gov/road-closures