The upcoming weekend in Tampa is set to be a bustling one, with several major events expected to draw large crowds. This will likely lead to significant traffic in various parts of the city from Friday, May 2, through Sunday, May 4. Officials are advising residents and visitors to plan ahead and consider utilizing alternative transportation options.
The largest event this weekend, the Country Thunder Festival, will be held at Raymond James Stadium. Over the course of three days, the music extravaganza is expected to attract around 35,000 attendees. Gates for the event will open around noon each day, and attendees should anticipate slow traffic and police-directed routes around the stadium.
Another anticipated event, the Tampa Riverfest, will take place on Friday and Saturday at Curtis Hixon Park. This festival is expected to draw approximately 10,000 attendees, with the largest crowd likely on Saturday.
Meanwhile, the BBQ Love Fest, targeting barbecue enthusiasts, will occur on Saturday, May 3, from 10 AM to 6 PM at Perry Harvey Sr. Park.
Sunday will see the continuation of the Country Thunder Festival. In addition, the 2 Bears 5K run is scheduled to begin at 7:30 AM at Raymond James Stadium. Event organizers expect early morning crowds in the vicinity of the stadium.
Additionally, move-in activities for SOF Week will commence at the Tampa Convention Center on Sunday. This event, running from May 5 to May 8, will bring about several road and lane closures nearby, including along S. Franklin Street and Water Street. Unlike previous years, this year’s event will not feature the capabilities demonstration.
In response to expected congestion, the City of Tampa’s Mobility Department suggests using alternative transportation. Options include the TECO Streetcar, DASH service, rentable scooters, or HART buses, all of which aim to alleviate traffic issues. The department urges caution and additional travel time for those navigating near event venues.
For the latest road closure updates, the public can visit Tampa.gov/road-closures. Anyone with general questions can contact the city via their address at 306 East Jackson Street, Tampa, Florida, or by phone at (813) 274-8211.
