This year Gasparilla shares its big weekend with the NHL All-Star Game. The midseason hockey showcase will bring even more entertainment to Tampa Bay, creating arguably the busiest weekend of the year.
Indie pop band Fitz and the Tantrums will unofficially kick off the weekend with a free concert at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park on Friday, January 26 at 8 p.m. The California group released its third, self-titled album in 2016, featuring the platinum-selling single "HandClap."
The outdoor party will feature a couple of other bands still to be announced -- most likely as the opening acts to Fitz and the Tantrums. There will also be an appearance by some NHL All-Stars and All-Star alumni. A fireworks show will cap off the evening.
If you've managed to secure tickets to the NHL All-Star Skills Competition on Saturday, January 27, you will be treated to a performance by Flo Rida at Amalie Arena. Born and raised in Carol City, Florida, the rapper, singer, and composer has nine multi-platinum singles, including "Low," "Good Feeling," "Wild Ones," and "My House."
The music won't stop there. The NHL is planning a three-day fan festival on the deck outside Amalie Arena, which will include more bands and other forms of entertainment, including some pirate-themed fun to weave into the Gasparilla festivities happening at the other end of downtown Tampa.
"Our mindset is, few are honored with a ticket to the game," said Steve Mayer, the NHL's executive vice president and COO said to Jay Cridlin at the Tampa Bay Times. "If you're privileged and you get to go, that's fantastic. But for us, how does everyone get a chance to experience All-Star Weekend? That's the most important thing for us."
An announcement about musical performers during the NHL All-Star Game on Sunday, January 28 will be made soon, including the American and Canadian national anthem performers and an in-game concert headliner.
From pirates to pucks, from high sticks to the high seas, Gasparilla and the NHL All-Star Weekend will make downtown Tampa the place to party on the last weekend of January. There will be big events and big fun wherever you turn!
While you're waiting for Gasparilla and the NHL All-Star Weekend to hit town, check out some more nightlife and things to do in Tampa on 813area. Make sure to sign up for those free email updates, too!
Picture courtesy of PXHere.com.
