Heads up, Downtown Tampa! A wave of anime fans, cosplayers, and pop culture lovers is heading to the waterfront as Florida’s hottest anime convention, METROCON, returns to the Tampa Convention Center from Friday, July 31 through Sunday, August 2!
Expect heavy foot traffic around the venue, higher demand at nearby parking garages, and colorful costumes in Downtown Tampa, especially around S. Franklin St. and Channelside Drive. Take Beneficial Drive to and from Harbour Island to avoid congestion around the center.
Convention Hours:
- Friday, July 31: 10:00 AM – 2:30 AM
- Saturday, August 1: 9:00 AM – 2:30 AM
- Sunday, August 2: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Peak times are expected in the mornings when the event is starting and lunch times. There will also be late-night events on Friday and Saturday from 9:00 PM to 3:00 AM.
🚦 Pro-Tip for Attendees: Skip the traffic and parking hassle by taking the FREE TECO Line Streetcar from Ybor (Dick Greco Plaza Station #10 is right across the street!), using DASH, riding HART buses, or hopping on the Pirate Water Taxi.
Heading to METROCON? Click here for the ultimate guide on where to park, event hours & food: https://www.tampa.gov/news/2026-07/ultimate-metrocon-guide-faqs-tickets-parking-tips-193006