Tampa’s St. Patrick’s celebration is going big once again! The Rough Riders are gearing up to host their 30th Annual St. Patrick’s Parade in downtown Tampa on Saturday, March 15, bringing a sea of green, festive floats, and exciting special guests to the heart of the city. Bleacher seats are available to reserve in advance online.
Leading the parade this year are two big names. Four-star General Bryan P. Fenton, the 13th Commander of the U.S. Special Operations Command at MacDill, will serve as Grand Marshal. Joining him is Tampa Bay legend and Hall of Famer Rondé Barber, who helped lead the Buccaneers to Super Bowl victory and will take on the role of Celebrity Marshal.
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More than 75 floats will be featured in the parade
The parade kicks off at 3 p.m. and promises a dazzling spectacle with over 75 floats from Tampa’s favorite krewes. The family-friendly route starts near Joe Chillura Square on East Madison Street, winds toward the river, then turns right onto East Ashley Drive before looping onto Polk Street.
“Last year was our first time hosting the parade downtown, and we had around 40,000 spectators,” said Lt. Col. Greg Eckley, President of the Tampa Rough Riders. “This year, we expect an even bigger turnout. We’re thrilled to make this one of the top St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the South.”
40,000 spectators attended in 2024
The fun starts early with the City’s annual “greening” of the Hillsborough River, followed by festivities at Curtis Hixon and Gaslight Square Parks. For those looking to snag the best view, preferred bleacher seating next to the Shriners’ Beer Garden on East Madison is available for $25 per person (advance purchase only) at tamparoughriders.org.
The Rough Riders, a nonprofit organization founded in 1978, honor the legacy of President Theodore Roosevelt’s 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry Regiment. Their community efforts include distributing thousands of teddy bears to hospitals, cancer survivors, and children in need every year.
