Tampa Convention Center Gasparilla

Plan Ahead: High Traffic Expected for Varsity Spirit at Tampa Convention Center

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With thousands of cheerleaders from across the country arriving for the Varsity Spirit competitions this Thursday, April 23, through Sunday, April 26, 2026, we are preparing for a significant increase in activity in Downtown Tampa.

Beyond the energy and excitement these teams bring to our venue, this event serves as a major economic engine for our city. This year’s competition alone is projected to bring an estimated $16,202,200 in economic impact to the Tampa region—supporting our local hotels, restaurants, and small businesses.

To ensure a smooth experience for residents and visitors alike, we recommend planning for additional travel time and considering alternative transportation options like the FREE TECO Line Streetcar, DASH service, HART buses, rentable scooters, bikes, and more.

To see the latest road closures that may impact your commute, visit: Tampa.gov/road-closures.

To view the City of Tampa's parking options near the Tampa Convention Center, visit: /node/76596/node/76596/node/76596.