There’s never a bad time to visit Florida’s gulf coast. Still, spring may be one of the best! The sun is warm, the beaches are beautiful, and the local happenings schedule is full of fun things to do. If you’re planning a trip in the coming months, great choice! Here are some of the things you can look forward to experiencing. And if you’re not — yet — we’ve got some compelling reasons why you should. Read on for what’s happening on the spring St. Petersburg events calendar.
St. Pete Grand Prix (March 3-5)
As we talked about in last month’s post, the St. Pete Grand Prix is one of the biggest events of the season. It’s not just the beginning of the IndyCar racing season, it’s the country’s top open-wheel racing championship. And while the race is certainly plenty exciting on its own, the events in the days leading up to it are no less packed with great things to do — like fan events, meet-and-greets, and race-themed events all over town.
655 2nd Ave. S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
St. Patrick’s Day Lunch Cruise (March 17th)
Calling all lucky leprechauns! It’s time to don your finest wearing of the green, and all aboard the Yacht StarShip for a two-hour “top o’ the mornin’” sail around the bay. As Florida’s largest dining yacht, the StarShip is 180 feet of feasting and fun year-round. Things really kick up a notch on St. Paddy’s, though. Guests will be treated to a festive lunch buffet with all the trimmings, live entertainment, and a lovely day on the water.
603 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
Tampa Bay Rays Home Opener (March 30)
Springtime means one thing to Tampa Bay Rays fans, and that’s the return of baseball season. Join the Tampa Bay Rays at their big home opener at Tropicana Field, where they’ll take on the Detroit Tigers in celebration of the beginning of their 25th season in Major League Baseball. This is poised to be a great season, so you won’t want to miss the first pitch. Time to grab a seat and some peanuts and root-root-root for the home team!
1 Tropicana Dr. St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Tall Ships St. Pete (Mar. 30-Apr. 2)
Maritime enthusiasts won’t want to miss this regal regatta. Port St. Pete is an official host for the Gulf Coast Series of the Tall Ships Challenge, a series of races, events and ceremonies celebrating America’s history in sailing. During this event, attendees will be welcome to step aboard these majestic vessels, interact with crews, and even set sail! Visitors can also look forward to the area’s best food trucks, entertainment and more.
600 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Tampa Bay Blues Festival (April 14-16)
Experience one of America’s most treasured art forms at the Tampa Bay Blues Festival. This three-day event will bring some of the world’s most celebrated Blues artists to Vinoy Park, including Robert Cray, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Tower of Power, Tab Benoit, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Larry McCray, and more. Of course, no festival is complete without amazing food, arts vendors and craft cocktails. VIP packages are also available.
701 Bayshore Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival (April 21-23)
Get into the tropical spirit at the Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival! Now in its 18th year, the Caribbean Carnival is a vibrantly festive fête that celebrates the multicultural experience of the eponymous islands, complete with fantastic food, dynamite dance exhibitions and colorful costumes. Attendees can also look forward to a parade, vending village featuring handmade art, and music from incredible international artists at Perry Harvey Sr. Park.
1000 East Harrison St, Tampa, FL 33602
TradeWinds is Your “Just Let Go” Getaway
Ready to head out to these fantastic local happenings? Stop by the TradeWinds Special Offers page and check out our amazing St. Pete Beach travel deals when it’s time to plan. We’re looking forward to being your home base for adventure.
