A new expansion to Downtown’s Water Street neighborhood was announced last Thursday, bringing a new entertainment district to the heart of Tampa’s Downtown.
This expansion will include:
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Tampa Downtown Partnership is hiring a Planning Coordinator!
This full-time role is responsible for coordinating and managing various projects including planning and transportation studies, project and budgeting support and stakeholder and community outreach. The position also leads research and data collection efforts related to key metrics and trends within the Special Services District and serves as the organizational administrator for multiple software platforms.
Applications close January 12, 2026.
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A previous proposal to regulate bike and scooter usage along Tampa’s Riverwalk and other popular areas has been rejected by City Council following a public hearing.
The proposal sought to limit bike speed and stunts, but community activists voiced concerns regarding the thoroughness and extent of the plan. City Council will instead host additional public hearings/workshops.
Last week brought two major headlines for Tampa’s iconic Gasparilla season!
Gasparilla Music Festival
Gasparilla Music Festival is returning to Tampa April 10-12, 2026 and with a new venue! In 2026, the festival is moving to Meridian Fields in Tampa’s Water Street neighborhood. This marks a major comeback for the festival, as it was canceled in 2025.
2026 Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic Race Weekend Announced
The 49th Publix Gasparilla Distance Classic Race Weekend returns February 21-22, 2026. The weekend will include a variety of distance runs and challenges, in addition to “Pepperjack’s Hot Diggity Dog Walk”.
Last week, it was announced that four new restaurants are coming to Tampa’s Riverwalk within the Pendry Tampa (currently under construction); these restaurants include a Mexican restaurant and a speakeasy lounge (among others).
Sponsorship opportunities are officially open for Tampa’s Downtown River O’ Green, returning on Saturday, March 14, 2026! This signature, family-friendly celebration transforms the Hillsborough River into a vibrant green spectacle while activating Tampa’s riverfront with live entertainment, interactive experiences, and community fun.
Tampa’s Downtown River O’ Green attracts thousands of attendees and offers sponsors a unique opportunity to connect with residents and visitors in a high-visibility, festive setting. From brand exposure along the Riverwalk to on-site activations and community engagement opportunities, sponsorship packages are designed to create meaningful connections and memorable moments.
Join us in celebrating one of Downtown Tampa’s most iconic traditions and be part of the magic that kicks off St. Patrick’s Day weekend.
Interested in sponsoring? Take a look at the Sponsorship Packet or email Ivy Lupco, Manager of Public Space Placemaking & Programming, at ilupco@tampasdowntown.com.
Our Downtown Debriefing breakfast series will highlight the Tampa Downtown Partnership programs and initiatives. Join us as our staff shares the various services, projects, achievements, and vision for the organization and Tampa’s Downtown. A breakfast buffet will be provided.
This event is FREE for members of the
Tampa Downtown Partnership and $15 for Potential Members.
REGISTER TODAY!
Tampa Downtown Partnership is hiring full-time DASH Driver Ambassadors!
As a Driver Ambassador, you will play a crucial role in supporting our organization’s mission to enhance and promote a vibrant Downtown. Your primary responsibility will be to ensure efficient transportation of individuals between designated hubs in a four door EV within the Downtown region while being a friendly and inviting ambassador of Downtown.
Keith Greminger, board member of Tampa Downtown Partnership, was recently awarded a Citizen Architects Award by the Florida chapter of American Institute of Architects.
Keith is a long-serving community leader whose work has shaped Tampa’s public realm, cultural life, and historic preservation efforts for more than three decades.
Winter Village Tampa, presented by the Tampa Bay Lightning, is open for 2 MORE WEEKS until January 4, 2026.
Enjoy light shows, games, and music—all free and open to everyone. Get your holiday shopping in by shopping small and local businesses throughout the village.
Join us for:
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December 22 at 6:00pm >> HIIT in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
December 23 at 6:00pm >> Zumba in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
December 28 at 6:00pm >> Yoga in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
December 29 at 6:00pm >> HIIT in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Now – January 4, 2026 >> Winter Village Tampa | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
January 8 at 12:00pm >> Downtown’s Backyard Market | Poe Plaza
January 14 at 8:00am >> Downtown Debriefing Breakfast Series | The Portico
Monday Morning Memo –Monday Morning Memo is a weekly update of “insider Downtown information” regarding developments, transportation, special opportunities and other useful information to help you make the most of Downtown. Subscribe to receive this weekly newsletter.
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