Step back in time and explore Tampa’s rich and diverse history during Archives Awareness Week 2025, a weeklong celebration featuring free events, guided tours, and special exhibits across the city.
The City of Tampa, in collaboration with local cultural institutions, will continue its annual tradition of honoring Tampa’s birthday. Residents are invited to discover the people, places, and stories that have shaped our community for the past 138 years.
Established in 1992, Archives Awareness Week brings together archivists, historians, and organizations to highlight the vital role of archives in preserving Tampa’s legacy. From historic cemeteries to cigar factories, this week has something for everyone.
This year’s schedule includes cake, tours, hidden history, and even a brunch with mimosas, all free and open to the public.
Event Highlights:
Sunday, July 13
- 1:00 PM - Henry B. Plant Museum: Manhood at Work in 1925 – An eye-opening look at the workers behind the grandeur of the Tampa Bay Hotel.
- 3:00 PM - Sacred Heart Catholic Church: Tour Tampa’s oldest Catholic church and hear its storied past.
Monday, July 14
- 3:00 PM -City of Tampa Archives: Celebrate the life and legacy of former City Clerk Frances Henriquez and explore Tampa 100 years ago with historian Fred Hearns. Birthday cake to follow.
Tuesday, July 15 – Tampa’s Official Birthday
- 11:00 AM - J.C. Newman Company: Enjoy a special guided tour of the newly restored Sanchez y Haya Building.
- 6:00 PM - Tampa’s Black History Museum: Discover how personal artifacts can help preserve and share Tampa’s Black heritage.
Wednesday, July 16
- 5:30 PM - Tampa’s Black History Museum: Commemorate the 100th anniversary of Booker T. Washington School with stories and history.
Thursday, July 17
- 11:00 AM - USF Libraries: Learn how the Progress Village Collection is building community through archives.
- 5:00–8:00 PM - Tampa International Airport: View rare historical artifacts, early airport drawings, and archival footage from Tampa International’s past.
Friday, July 18
- 11:00 AM - Soulwalk Marker Dedication: Celebrate Tampa’s history with new markers at Marti-Colon Cemetery, Woodlawn Cemetery, and St. Joseph Aid Cemetery/Montana City Cemetery.
- 2:00 PM - Tampa Bay History Center: Exclusive guided tour of Invisible Immigrants: Spaniards in the U.S. (1868–1945).
Saturday, July 19
- 11:00 AM - Centro Asturiano: Join Dr. Sarah McNamara, author of Ybor City: Crucible of the Latina South, for a compelling talk. Free brunch and mimosas will be served.
- 3:00 PM - John F. Germany Library: Learn how to interpret historic maps with expert staff.
For a full schedule and more information, visit tampa.gov/aaw.