While the weather in Tampa Bay is beautiful this time of year and could easily be mistaken for a beautiful summer day, you can still catch a glimmer of autumn in our pearly white sand; a pleasant gust floats off the ocean and wafts the scent of pumpkin spice lattes as they’re churned out from every nearby coffee shop; friends enjoy food and wine at outdoor festivals and families shop for pumpkins after a day picnicking on the beach. If you’re looking for ways to take advantage of the season change and enjoy fall activities the Tampa Bay way, look no further!
Fall Events & Activities –
At about 146 years old, the Sunshine City is packed with haunted history and spooky mysteries. Wander the city on a guided, candlelight tour and learn of ghostly legends while taking in the charming downtown, waterfront area. Tickets cost $20.
When: Select dates and times year-round.
Where: Meeting place is at Sweet Divas Chocolates at 181 4th Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
The Tampa Theatre Presents – A Nightmare on Franklin Street
Make the most of the Halloween season and get your scares in at Tampa’s most historic landmark, The Tampa Theatre. Enjoy hair-raising, classic horror movies, spooky stage shows, and spine-chilling storytelling. The thrilling box office hits you’ll find include Hocus Pocus, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Friday the 13th, The Shining, and Psycho. Choose a date and time, and settle in for a night of cinematic suspense!
When: Select dates and times throughout the month of October.
Where: 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602
Riverwalk Halloween Lighted Boat Parade
Friends of the Riverwalk and the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation come together to host the 3rd annual Halloween Lighted Boat Parade. Register your boat to participate and you’ll be entered to win “Best Decorated Boat” – or simply arrive and enjoy the show as the glowing boats dance along the Hillsborough River.
When: Saturday, October 29 from 6:30 – 9:30 pm
Where: Tampa Riverwalk
Hyde Park Village Pumpkin Patch
Hyde Park’s famous pumpkin patch is a can’t-miss for all your autumn decorative needs. Explore the patch and pick out your favorite gourds for carving while sipping a sweet coffee from the shops nearby. All proceeds will benefit The Humane Society of Tampa Bay.
When: October 4-26, Mondays through Thursdays from 3 – 6 pm, Fridays from noon – 6pm, Saturdays from 10am – 6pm, and Sundays from noon – 5pm.
Where: Hyde Park Village Circle
This event is as delicious as it sounds. Spend the day tasting and indulging in the finest local culinary offerings and meeting Tampa Bays esteemed chefs. While “fall” may not be in the name, it will be jam packed into the flavors. What better way to spend a November weekend than tasting the greatest foods, wines, and microbrews that St. Petersburg has to offer? Grab your foodie friends and prepare for a delectable adventure. General Admission is $80, and VIP is $115 with access to the private Spirits VIP Lounge.
When: November 5-6, VIP from 12 pm – 4 pm and GA from 1 – 4 pm
Where: North Straub Park
Tampa Bay is filled to the brim with exciting events and festivals to make the most out of this fantastic season. Enjoy the beautiful waterfront and the cooler weather with all your favorite Tampa Bay activities and a few extras that make it truly feel like autumn. Boat the open bay with your family while enjoying a crisp apple cider or carve pumpkins by the waterfront. No matter what your plans, fall feels better in Florida.
