Tampa Riverfest is a sprawling, family-friendly event that spans the entire length of the Tampa Riverwalk. Yes, this event connects the bustle of Tampa Heights to the boom of Water Street. Previous iterations of the event have included multiple stages for live music, a wild fireworks display, glow-in-the-dark hot air balloons, outdoor food halls, and so much more. The 2024 edition of the event will take place May 3 and May 4.
The 2023 iteration of the event included a new local market in Water Works Park where 30+ local vendors were able to showcase and sell their goods. Overall, the estimated attendance of the 2023 event was 20,000.
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Riverfest includes two food-themed events and a local market
Taste of the Riverwalk is officially back on May 3 from 5:30pm-9:30pm. The fun will include big concerts, beer trucks on site, and of course food vendors. Participating restaurants will be announced in the coming month. Follow along on the Facebook event page for updates. Note: a wristband is required to access the food tent area.
On May 4 the TacoFest once again arrives at Curtis Hixon Park (600 N Ashley Dr). TacoFest will provide a delicious opportunity to try a variety of tacos and toppings while enjoying all of the other aspects of Riverfest like the Wiener Dog Derby, Concert Series, Beer Tents, and more. Tickets for the event will officially go on sale March 8. You can keep up with the latest news on the official Facebook event page.
Tampa’s huge Lantern Parade will take place on May 4 from 8:30pm-10pm. Participants decorate their own paper lanterns and join in on the parade. The parade will start at Water Works Park in Tampa Heights and end in Curtis Hixon Park. Lantern kits will be for sale the day of the event, 6pm-8pm in Water Works Park (1701 N Highland Ave).
Live music, dachshund derby, and more set
There is so much to take in during Riverfest. The Wiener Dog Derby, Concert Series, Beer Tents, and more completely activate our waterfront parks. Tampa Riverfest is also partnering with The Florida Wiener Dog Derby as part of the FREE events and activities for Riverfest.
The 2022 iteration of Riverfest launched a new activity, the lantern parade. The Riverfest Lantern Parade is now a new annual event where participants decorate their own paper lanterns and join in on the parade. The parade will start at Water Works Park at 8:30pm and end in Curtis Hixon Park.
Kits are typically made available to the public at Water Works Park the day of the event. 
Water ski show added to the festivities
The Water Ski Show will also return during Riverfest. This oh-so-Florida event will take place on May 4 from 5pm-6pm, and is free to watch. The best views will be from the Riverwalk by Water Works Park in Tampa Heights (near Armature Works at 1910 N Ola Ave).
Those interested in participating, attending, or vending, can learn more on the official Riverfest website and Facebook.
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