Your weekly guide to Tampa Bay news, events, dining, and local culture. Delivered every Thursday.

Inside Tampa Bay is your go-to newsletter for everything happening across the Tampa Bay area. From breaking local news and community updates to business highlights, events, and hidden gems, we keep you informed and connected. Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the region, Inside Tampa Bay delivers timely, relevant stories that matter most to you—right to your inbox.

👋 Welcome to Inside Tampa Bay!

Hey there, Tampa Bay!

Inside Tampa Bay — your new go-to source for everything happening around our incredible community.

Whether you're looking for weekend plans, discovering new restaurants, or staying in-the-know about local news, we've got you covered. Every Thursday, we'll deliver the insider scoop straight to your inbox so you never miss what makes Tampa Bay amazing.

Let's dive into what's happening this week!

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🗓️ What's Happening: Top Stories This Week

Water Restrictions Hit Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay residents are adjusting to extreme Phase III water restrictions as the region faces ongoing drought conditions. The restrictions limit outdoor watering and aim to conserve resources during this dry season. Officials encourage residents to follow the guidelines to help protect our water supply.

Buccaneers Legend Lavonte David Retires
After 14 incredible seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, linebacker Lavonte David announced his retirement this week. The Super Bowl LV champion leaves behind a legacy of leadership and excellence. Thanks for the memories, Lavonte! 🏈

San Martin Bridge Lane Closure Begins March 30
St. Petersburg drivers, heads up! One lane of the San Martin Bridge closes starting this Sunday (March 30) through October 2026. Expect traffic delays on San Martin Blvd. and 83rd Ave. N. Plan alternate routes if this is part of your daily commute.

Rays Neighbors Seek Ballpark Assurances
Members of the West Tampa Heights and Macfarlane neighborhoods are pushing for binding commitments as the Tampa Bay Rays pitch their new ballpark plans near their homes. Community meetings continue as residents voice concerns about parking, noise, and property values.

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🍽️ Restaurant Spotlight: Oro Opens at Rome Collective

Spanish flavor comes to Tampa!

If you're a fan of bold flavors and chef-driven dining, you need to check out Oro, the new Spanish restaurant that just opened at the Rome Collective in Tampa. From the team behind Bar Terroir, Oro brings authentic Spanish cuisine with an emphasis on immersive dining experiences.

What to Try: Start with their tapas selection and don't skip the paella!

Location: Rome Collective, Tampa  
Vibe: Upscale casual, perfect for date night or special occasions

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🎉 This Weekend: April 4-6

Sugar Sand Festival – Clearwater Beach
Through April 12
Watch professional sand sculptors transform 24,000 square feet of sugar sand into breathtaking works of art! This massive festival at Clearwater Beach's Pier 60 is a family favorite.  
📍 Pier 60, Clearwater Beach | FREE admission

Tampa Bay Tech Week
April 7-11 (Kicks off Monday!)
Tampa's tech community comes together for a week of innovation, networking, and learning. Whether you're a startup founder, developer, or just tech-curious, there are events all week long.  
📍 Various locations across Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay Rays Opening Day
Thursday, April 3
Baseball is BACK! The Rays kick off their 2026 season at Steinbrenner Field. Grab your peanuts and cracker jacks!  

📍 George M. Steinbrenner Field, 6:30 PM

Live Music & Dining
Check out the waterfront restaurants along the Riverwalk for live music all weekend! CW's Gin Joint in Downtown Tampa features live music Thursday-Sunday starting at 7 PM with a speakeasy vibe.

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💰 Deal of the Week

Jeff's Bagel Run Grand Opening Special
The new bagel shop on West Neptune Street is celebrating their grand opening with Buy One, Get One FREE bagels through Sunday! Perfect excuse to try their New York-style bagels.  
📍 West Neptune Street, Tampa

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🌤️ Weekend Weather

Your Tampa Bay Forecast:
Expect beautiful spring weather this weekend! Highs in the mid-70s with plenty of sunshine. Perfect conditions for outdoor events and beach days. Don't forget the sunscreen! ☀️

Current Conditions: 72°F, sunny, 81% humidity

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💡 Jim's Pick of the Week

The Sugar Sand Festival at Clearwater Beach

I've seen a lot of events in my 20+ years in Tampa Bay, and the Sugar Sand Festival never gets old. The level of artistry these sculptors bring is mind-blowing — and it's all made from SAND! Take the family, grab some ice cream on the pier, and enjoy one of Tampa Bay's most unique attractions. Trust me, it's worth the trip.

— Jim Harden, Inside Tampa Bay

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🙏 Thanks for Reading!

That's it for Issue #001! I hope you found something exciting to do this week.

Have a local event, restaurant, or story you think we should cover? Hit reply and let me know! This newsletter is all about celebrating what makes Tampa Bay special — and that includes YOU.

See you next Thursday!

Jim Harden  
Inside Tampa Bay