Thousands are expected to come to Tampa’s Downtown to celebrate Independence Day with Liberty by the Bay. People attending will be able to enjoy a day full of live entertainment, family activities, food vendors, and waterfront attractions. The event will end with a 250-drone light show and fireworks over the Hillsborough River in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.
Festivities will also include a patriotic pet showcase, a water ski performance, a children’s parade, and additional fireworks displays throughout the Downtown area. To help visitors enjoy the celebration car-free, Tampa Downtown Partnership will offer free bike valet service, making it easy for cyclists to securely park and explore the festivities. Liberty by the Bay takes place Saturday, July 4, from 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park.
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There’s still time to take advantage of Tampa Bay Restaurant Month, now in its 20th year. Through the end of the month, participating restaurants across the Bay Area, including several Downtown favorites, are offering special prix fixe menus, curated drink offerings, and unique culinary experiences. Diners simply need to ask for the Tampa Bay Restaurant Month menu to participate.
Downtown businesses participating include 3 Corners Pizza, American Social Bar & Kitchen, CW’s Gin Joint, and The Pearl. The annual celebration not only showcases the area’s vibrant dining scene but also supports Feeding Tampa Bay by donating a portion of the proceeds. Last day to participate is June 30th.
Soccer fans don’t have to travel far to catch the World Cup fever this summer. With the FIFA World Cup running through July 19, several Downtown restaurants and businesses are rolling out the TVs and creating the perfect atmosphere for cheering on your favorite teams. Whether you’re looking for a lively sports bar or a scenic waterfront setting, Downtown has plenty of options for gathering with fellow fans.
Among the local favorites are:
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The American Victory Ship is recruiting performers for Undead in the Water, its annual Downtown Halloween attraction returning this fall with a new theme, “Unlocked.” Inspired by a prison break, this year’s experience will transform the historic vessel into a spine-chilling adventure, and organizers are looking for actors of all experience levels to help bring the scares to life. Paid roles and bonus opportunities are available.
Taking place over in September and October, guests will navigate multiple decks of the historic World War II cargo ship as they encounter eerie scenes and unforgettable characters. Interested actors are encouraged to email undeadinthewater@americanvictory.org for more information.
The Placemaking Manager is a strategic and hands-on leadership role responsible for planning, managing, and advancing Downtown Tampa’s placemaking, activation, and public-realm initiatives. This position oversees program development and execution while managing staff, partnerships, and resources to ensure a cohesive, inclusive and high-quality Downtown experience.
To apply, submit a cover letter, resume, and two leadership professional references to admin@tampasdowntown.com. Applications should be submitted by June 26, 2026.
DASH Driver Ambassadors ensure efficient transportation of individuals between 20+ designated DASH hubs within the Special Services District (SSD) of Tampa’s Downtown while being a friendly and inviting ambassador of Downtown. Driver Ambassadors operate a company-provided four-door EV and utilize app-based software to receive and accept ride requests, navigate hub locations, and track rides.
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July 1 >> Mayor’s Food Truck Fiesta | Lykes Gaslight Park
July 2 >> Rock The Park | Curtis Hixon Park
July 9 >> Downtown’s Backyard Market | Poe Plaza
July 17 >> Rhythm & Hues: An Alleyway Art Show | Rialto Theater Alleyway
Sundays at 6pm >> Yoga in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Mondays at 6pm >> HIIT in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Tuesdays at 6pm >> Zumba in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Thursdays at 4-8pm >> Art on the House | Tampa Museum of Art
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