Tampa Bay This Weekend: Country Thunder, Food & Wine Festival Finale & Mother's Day!

🎵 Country Thunder Florida - Final Weekend!

May 8-10, 2026 | Coachman Park, Clearwater

 

The biggest country music festival in North America has arrived in Clearwater! Country Thunder Florida takes over Coachman Park this weekend with an incredible lineup featuring Kane Brown, Zach Top, Gavin Adcock, and more.

 

This is the festival's first year at Coachman Park after moving from St. Pete Beach, and the waterfront venue promises an unforgettable experience. Gates open at 12 PM daily, with multiple stages showcasing the best in country music.

 

Whether you're a die-hard country fan or just looking for a great time, Country Thunder delivers three days of music, food, and fun. Tickets are still available at the gate and through Walgreens locations for up to $55 off.

 

Don't miss your chance to see some of country music's biggest stars right here in Pinellas County!

 

🌐 countrythunder.com/florida

 

 

🍷 Busch Gardens Food, Wine & Garden Festival - Final Weekend!

May 9-10, 2026 | Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

 

It's your last chance to experience Tampa Bay's favorite spring festival! The Busch Gardens Food, Wine & Garden Festival wraps up its 2026 season this weekend with over 100+ flavors to savor.

 

Sip and savor your way through the park with delicious dishes, wine tastings, craft brews, and cocktails. The festival features returning fan-favorites and all-new culinary delights that pair perfectly with the park's thrilling roller coaster collection.

 

Plus, enjoy FREE concerts included with park admission! This weekend features live performances from iamchelseaiam on the Festival Walkway and Vân Scott at the Canopy Stage.

 

Food and beverage cabins open at 12 PM and stay open until park close. Park admission required; food and beverages available for an extra fee.

 

Don't let this season pass you by - it's the tastiest way to experience Busch Gardens!

 

🌐 buschgardens.com/tampa/events/food-and-wine-festival

 

 

🏮 Tampa Water Lanterns, Kites & Food Festival

May 9-10, 2026 | Mary Help of Christians Center, Tampa

 

Experience one of Tampa's most magical evenings as thousands of glowing lanterns illuminate the water at the Tampa Water Lanterns & Flying Kites Festival, presented by Asian Glow Fest.

 

This beautiful cultural experience brings the community together for a night of reflection, celebration, food, and unforgettable memories. As the sun sets, guests can write messages, wishes, or memories on their lanterns and release them onto the water — creating a breathtaking sea of lights across the lake.

 

✨ Free entry for everyone! Guests are welcome to enjoy the festival, food vendors, performances, and kite flying at no cost. LED water lanterns will be available for purchase for those who wish to decorate and release a lantern during the 8:00 PM ceremony.

 

Enjoy Asian street food vendors, live music and cultural performances, kite flying in open festival grounds, and beautiful waterfront photo moments. VIP packages are available with exclusive perks.

 

Bring your loved ones and experience one of Tampa's most unforgettable nights!

 

🌐 Eventbrite Tickets

 

 

💐 Mother's Day Weekend Celebrations

Sunday, May 10, 2026 | Various Locations

 

This Sunday is Mother's Day, and Tampa Bay has plenty of ways to make Mom feel celebrated! Here are some special events happening around the area:

 

🍽️ Mother's Day Brunch at The Straz Center
Treat Mom to a special brunch at Maestro's Restaurant with chef-attended carving and omelet stations, plus bottomless champagne and mimosas. 1010 N MacInnes Pl, Tampa.

 

🌸 Midtown Tampa Mother's Day Celebration
From rooftop views to an elevated brunch buffet, there's something for every kind of celebration. 10 AM - 3 PM at 3659 Midtown Dr, Tampa.

 

🦁 Busch Gardens Mother's Day Animal Encounter & Brunch
Begin at 1:00 PM with a special animal encounter experience. Park admission required and not included.

 

Make this Mother's Day one she'll never forget!

 

 

🎉 More Weekend Events

 

🎭 Men of Soul at The Straz Center
Thursday, May 7 at 7:30 PM. Inspired by VH1 - prepare to be dazzled as four powerhouse male vocalists take the stage.

 

⚽ Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Indy Eleven
Saturday, May 9 at 7:30 PM at Al Lang Stadium, St. Petersburg. Catch the green and gold in action!

 

🎵 Kid Cudi: The Rebel Rangers Tour
Friday, May 8 at 6:30 PM at Benchmark International Arena, Tampa.

 

---

 

That's a wrap for this week's Tampa Bay events! Have a fantastic weekend, and we'll see you next Thursday with more local happenings.

 

Know of an event we should feature? Reply to this email and let us know!