Tampa Theatre (711 N Franklin St) is turning 100 in October 2026—and it wants your memories to help celebrate. As this iconic downtown movie palace prepares for its centennial, it’s inviting residents to share personal keepsakes from visits over the decades. As this iconic downtown movie palace gears up for its centennial celebration, residents can help paint a fuller picture of its rich history by contributing ticket stubs, photographs, and memorabilia.
More than just a cinema, Tampa Theatre offers an experience you can’t replicate elsewhere. From its grand velvet curtains and mesmerizing live organ performances to its mischievous taxidermied peacock, the historic landmark transports guests to another era.
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A home for film, music, and culture in downtown Tampa
Over the years, Tampa Theatre has hosted far more than movies. Award‑winning author George Saunders captivated audiences during his tour for “Lincoln in the Bardo,” and actress Geena Davis spoke as part of the Limelight Speaker Series. Comedian Fred Armisen is slated to perform soon, and rock band Drive‑By Truckers once set the venue alight with their revival of “Southern Rock Opera.”
From first dates under its twinkling ceiling to family outings for classic films, the theatre has woven itself into Tampa’s cultural fabric. As it gears up to celebrate 100 years, the city reflects on a century of stories, performances, and cinematic magic.
From first dates under its twinkling ceiling to family outings for classic films, Tampa Theatre has been a beloved backdrop for countless unforgettable moments. Now, it’s asking residents to dust off their old ticket stubs, photographs, and treasured stories to help paint a fuller picture of its rich history.
Add your memories for Tampa Theatre’s birthday
“We’re thrilled to invite the Tampa community to help us tell the full story of Tampa Theatre,” said Jill Witecki, the Theatre’s Director of Marketing and Community Relations. “Every photo, every ticket stub, every memory shared brings us closer to celebrating 100 years of this iconic space in a way that honors the people who have made it such a beloved gathering place.”
Participating is easy, and there are two ways to contribute:
- Preserve and Return: Have a cherished keepsake you’d rather not part with? Bring it to Tampa Theatre, where staff will carefully scan or photograph it before returning it to you.
- Donate to the Archives: Ready to pass along a piece of history? The Theatre welcomes donations of photos, ticket stubs, and memorabilia, which will be preserved in its archives for future generations.
The big centennial celebration is set for October 2026
Tampa Theatre is accepting submissions now through the fall as it prepares for a once-in-a-lifetime centennial celebration. To contribute, visit TampaTheatre.org/memories or contact Jill Witecki at memories@tampatheatre.org or 813-274-8287 to arrange a submission.
The 100th birthday festivities are just getting started, and this “Spring Cleaning” memory drive is only the beginning. Stay tuned for more ways to celebrate a century of movie magic, community, and architectural wonder at one of Tampa’s most treasured landmarks!
