Monday Morning Memo

Monday, May 11, 2026

Brewing a Bold Future: Celebrate Our First Champion Level Member at Coffee with a Champion

Celebrate a milestone moment for Downtown and be part of the conversation shaping its future. Join us on May 19 from 8am – 9:30 am at Embarc Collective for “Coffee with a Champion,” as we officially recognize Suncoast Credit Union as our very first Champion Level Member. This exciting partnership reflects a strong commitment to reinvestment in the urban core and a shared vision for a more connected, thriving Downtown. Enjoy a morning of coffee, connection, and insight as we explore what this collaboration means for the continued growth of our business community. Don’t miss your chance to be in the room—register today!

Register Now!

Downtown Fine Dining Experience Expands with New Mexican Steakhouse

A new dining destination is set to join Tampa’s Downtown’s growing culinary scene as Next Level Brands announces plans for Matilde, an elevated coastal Mexican steakhouse coming to the River Arts District in spring 2027. The concept will occupy the ground floor of the AER luxury residential tower near the Tampa Museum of Art and the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, further adding to the neighborhood’s energy and momentum.

Led by the team behind several well-known Tampa restaurants, Matilde is expected to bring a vibrant new dining experience that blends hospitality, atmosphere, and bold design.

Learn More

The Florida Aquarium, NOAA, and TFR to Take Center Stage at Hurricane Preparedness Debriefing

The Tampa Downtown Partnership has confirmed its featured speakers for the upcoming Hurricane Preparedness Debriefing, including experts from The Florida Aquarium, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and Tampa Fire Rescue. Together, these leaders will provide critical insight on hurricane preparedness, emergency response, and resources available to support Downtown residents and businesses ahead of the 2026 season. Emmy-winning meteorologist Greg Dee of Tampa Bay 28 will take center stage as emcee.

Join us on Wednesday, May 27, from 8am to 10am at the Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk. Attendees can expect timely updates, guidance, and opportunities to connect with key partners across the region. Breakfast and networking are included.

Register Here

Shameka Conwell Selected for International Downtown Association Emerging Leader Fellowship

Please join us in celebrating Shameka Conwell on her acceptance into the Emerging Leader Fellowship (ELF) with the International Downtown Association (IDA). This prestigious program recognizes rising leaders from across the country who are shaping the future of Downtowns through innovation, collaboration, and community impact.

Shameka’s selection is a testament to her dedication, leadership, and the meaningful work she contributes to advancing Tampa’s Downtown. As part of this national cohort, she will engage with industry experts, gain valuable insights, and bring back new ideas that will continue to strengthen our urban core.

We’re proud to see her represent Tampa on a national stage and look forward to the impact this experience will have on our community.

Congratulations, Shameka!

Learn More

Downtown Delights Await: Date Nights, Fresh Finds & Your Next Favorite Read

There’s no shortage of ways to connect, unwind, and explore Downtown next week. Registration is now open for the next Channel District Date Nights, a quarterly Tampa Downtown Partnership series at Washington Street Park designed for memorable nights out. Bring your plus one and enjoy a unique, interactive experience with an upcoming Couples Somatic session—just don’t forget your towel or yoga mat!

Register for Channel District Date Night

Keep the connection going on May 11 with Blind Date with a Book at Snow Park, where you can “swipe right” on a mystery read wrapped to surprise and delight—perfect for discovering your next favorite story. And for a midday dose of local flavor, head to the Downtown Backyard Market at Tampa City Center’s Esplanade (Poe Plaza). Held monthly on the second Thursday, this vibrant market brings fresh produce, handmade goods, and a rotating mix of local vendors right into the heart of the city.

Whether you’re planning a date night, looking for a new read, or shopping local, Downtown Tampa has something waiting for you.

More Information about Downtown’s Backyard Market

More Information about Blind Date with a Book

Thank You for Connecting With Us in Downtown—and Keep Your Feedback Coming!

We loved connecting with residents, workers, and visitors during one of Tampa’s favorite live music events in the heart of Downtown. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth to share thoughts, ideas, and feedback on what’s working and what you’d like to see more of in your neighborhood.

While the event has passed, the conversation doesn’t stop here—our annual survey is still open, and we’d love to hear from you. Your input continues to play a vital role in shaping the programs, events, and experiences we bring to Downtown throughout the year.

Fill Out Our Survey

Celebrate National Walk & Bike Month

National Walk & Bike Month is coming up fast—don’t miss your chance to be part of the celebration! Grab your tickets today and join Walk Bike Tampa for an inspiring evening at the Tampa Bay History Center from 5pm – 7pm on Tuesday, May 12th.

Get Tickets

Now Seeking Food & Beverage Request For Proposals For Winter Village Tampa

Winter Village is returning to Tampa’s Downtown, and we’re now seeking qualified food and beverage partners through an open Request for Proposal (RFP). Each year, Winter Village transforms Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park into a beloved holiday destination featuring ice skating, local shopping, and festive experiences that draw thousands of visitors to the heart of Downtown.

We are inviting experienced and innovative food and beverage vendors to submit proposals to be part of this signature seasonal activation. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your offerings in a high-traffic, high-visibility environment and contribute to one of Tampa’s most cherished holiday traditions.

If you’re interested in being part of the 2026 Winter Village experience, we encourage you to review the RFP details and apply today.

Learn More

Help shape the future of getting around Tampa's Downtown!

Please take a few minutes to fill out our survey! This survey gives residents, workers, and visitors the opportunity to weigh in on the convenient, $2 hub-to-hub transit service that’s making it easier to explore and connect across Downtown.

 

Your input will directly inform how we continue to enhance and evolve the DASH program—ensuring it remains accessible, efficient, and responsive to the community’s needs.

 

Take The Survey Now

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AT TAMPA DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP

The Digital Marketing Coordinator supports the Tampa Downtown Partnership’s communication efforts by managing daily social media content, updating the website, and assisting with copywriting and content development. This role plays a vital part in ensuring a consistent digital presence that reflects the organization’s mission, programs, and placemaking initiatives. The ideal candidate is creative, organized, and proactive, with a passion for digital media and storytelling.

APPLY NOW

 

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.

LEARN MORE

 

Grant Applications Now Open!

Tampa’s Downtown Neighborhood Placemaking Grant is a dynamic initiative aimed at fostering vibrant and inclusive neighborhoods. The program offers annual grants up to $30,000 available to the seven neighborhoods of Tampa’s Downtown. These grants are intended to fund community-driven projects that are free and accessible to all residents, workers, and visitors in the neighborhood, driving long-term impact. Number of grants awarded will be based on submissions and those requested funds. The program’s primary objective is to enhance the quality of life for all members of the community and create a strong sense of belonging and engagement through collaborative placemaking initiatives.

 

LEARN MORE.

UPCOMING EVENTS

MAY

May 11 >> Blind Date With A Book | Snow Park

May 13 >> Channel District Date Night | Washington Street Park

May 14 >> Downtown’s Backyard Market | Poe Plaza

May 19 >> Coffee with a Champion | Embarc Collective

May 27 >> Hurricane Preparedness Debriefing | Barrymore Hotel

 

WEEKLY EVENTS

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

<<<< Submit an event to our Event Calendar to help us spread the word! >>>>

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Monday Memo –Monday 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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