There's no question that Tampa is a fantastic city for the arts. In all corners of the city, in neighborhoods like Ybor City and Downtown Tampa, the arts proliferate throughout the streets in the form of museums, galleries, music venues, and much more. It's almost overwhelming how many events and attractions in Tampa are tied to the arts in one way or another. Here are a few definitely worth checking out.
Art on 19th Street - Art on 19th Street is a free, monthly event in Ybor City presented by the Singing Stone Gallery. Artists Dan Balk and Arnold Martinez will open the doors to their beloved studio and discuss art, their work, and demonstrate their creative process for the community. The event is FREE and a great way to get a rare glimpse of visual artists in action.
Target $2 Tuesdays at the Glazer Children's Museum - On the first Tuesday of every month, kids' admission at the Glazer Children's Museum is only $2. Bring the kids and watch as they interact and explore with 170 different 'interactivities' as they like to call them. Your kids, and wallet, will definitely thank you.
Rock the Park Tampa - For some free live music and great scenery, you've got to check out the monthly Rock the Park event at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in Downtown Tampa. Come see some of the best up-and-coming musical talent from right here in Tampa as you relax on the lawn and take in the sights and sounds of this beautiful, waterfront locale. If you want to hear just how great and eclectic the Tampa music scene can be, attending this event is a must.
Arts Alive! - Arts Alive goes down on August 18th at Taverna Opa in Channelside and features the work of some of the most prolific visual artists in Tampa today. Enjoy artwork from locals like Mauricio Fuentes, Megan Bratcher, and Ashley Tajadod as you dine on an open buffet and complimentary glass of wine.
CITY: Fashion+Art+Culture - Taking place on September 30th, the CITY event at the Tampa Museum of Art is poised to be one of the biggest fashion events of the year in Tampa. Watch a fashion show coordinated by Neiman Marcus as you dine on delectable food and libations in the museum. Best of all, the proceeds raised from this event go towards the museum's education initiatives.
Live Music Series at Hyde Park Village - Similar to Rock the Park, the Live Music Series at Hyde Park Village is a great place to catch some free live music from Tampa's best local musicians. This monthly event during the summer is now in its 24th year and serves as a great community event where you can soak up the scenery of beautiful Hyde Park and catch some great music with your closest Tampa neighbors.