Get ready for a festive weekend in Tampa as we celebrate St. Patrick's Day early! Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is hosting the huge River O'Green festival, and there are plenty of unique family activities from cooking workshops to dinosaur trains happening on Saturday, March 14th, and Sunday, March 15th, 2026.
See our top picks
Tampa's Downtown River O'Green
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Massive, free outdoor festival turning the river green on Saturday afternoon.
Pi Day
MOSI (Implied)
Hands-on, family-friendly math and science fun happening Saturday indoors.
Day Out with Thomas
Florida Railroad Museum
The beloved train is in town both days for dedicated kid enjoyment.
· March 14
8FREE : The Hillsborough River is turning bright green for this annual St. Patrick's Day kickoff event! Expect live entertainment, food vendors, and plenty of fun activities tailored for the entire family.This is the main St. Patrick's celebration happening in Tampa this weekend and it is completely free and family-focused.
DAY OUT WITH THOMAS : Thomas the Tank Engine is rolling into town for the 'Let's Rock, Let's Roll Tour.' It’s a full day where kids can interact with Thomas and enjoy the museum attractions.A major family draw that runs all day Saturday and Sunday.
KRAVE KIDS AT LAUNCH CLEARWATER : This is a monthly hands-on culinary and play experience designed specifically for kids. Drop the little chefs off for a fun morning session.A structured, hands-on activity away from the main St. Paddy's crowds.
: Catch the Bolts take on the Hurricanes in this Saturday night NHL matchup. Fun for older kids and hockey fans.A major sporting event happening Saturday night.
PI DAY : Celebrate the number Pi with hands-on fun exploring the wonders of circles and discovery. This is a great indoor option if the River O'Green crowds get too much.A timely, educational event happening Saturday based on the date 3/14.
ROUGH RIDERS ST PATRICK'S DAY PARADE IN DOWNTOWN TAMPAFREE : This downtown parade is scheduled to pass right by Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, making it a perfect complement to the River O'Green Festival happening the same afternoon.The best free event if you're already downtown for River O'Green.
: Get active for a good cause! This 5K benefits the YMCA of East Pasco and includes a dedicated kid's run, so the whole family can participate.The only known organized run/walk event listed for Saturday morning.
: Get right into the action by paddling the famously green river during the height of the festival celebration!Unique opportunity to interact directly with the main River O'Green spectacle.
· March 15
3BUSCH GARDENS 2026 FOOD, WINE & GARDEN FESTIVAL : The park's seasonal food festival is running all weekend. While adults sample culinary delights, there are often specific kid-friendly activities or areas included with park entry.A major weekend attraction that is running both days.
STUDIO 55 | JEWELRY SAMPLER : A quick one-hour session focused on learning jewelry techniques. Great for older kids or tweens interested in crafts.A short, focused craft workshop happening Sunday morning.
EXPLORE THE WORLD OF GREJSIMOJS AT IKEAFREE : This is a free, imaginative play exploration event inside IKEA designed to bring play into the shopping experience. Perfect if you need a large, climate-controlled space.It's a free indoor option running all day Sunday.
Also On· anytime this weekend
5: Wind down the busy Saturday with an hour of evening yoga, possibly along the Riverwalk area.A nice, relaxing activity occurring both days this weekend.
: Take a fascinating morning walk back in time to explore the history of Tampa's famous cigar capital. A great educational option for older kids.A structured educational morning activity available only Saturday.
: Check out this local market on Sunday morning for browsing vendors, food, and grabbing some snacks before your next activity.A good Sunday morning market option.
: Enjoy a nice two-hour brunch cruise on Sunday afternoon, a lovely way to see the city from the water.A relaxing Sunday activity that involves being out on the water.
: Step into the 16th century at the Renaissance Festival. It offers live performances and a unique historical experience perfect for a full Sunday outing.A major limited-run event happening Sunday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Tampa this weekend?
The biggest free event is the Tampa's Downtown River O'Green festival on Saturday (Mar 14) at Curtis Hixon Park. You can also explore the GREJSIMOJS play area for free at IKEA on Sunday (Mar 15), and the Rough Riders Parade on Saturday is free to watch.
Are there any events happening on Sunday, March 15th?
Yes! Sunday features the Bay Area Renaissance Festival in Dade City, the CRAFT Tampa - Brunch Cruise, Yoga in the Park, and the Explore the World of GREJSIMOJS at IKEA.
What's best for a Saturday afternoon outing?
For daytime Saturday, check out the main River O'Green festival (11 AM - 4 PM) and stick around downtown to catch the Rough Riders St Patrick's Day Parade at 2 PM.
