After over a decade of hosting New Year's Eve fireworks at Channelside, construction associated with Water Street Tampa forced a move to Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park this year.
"With redevelopment construction underway at Channelside, safety is always our first concern," said Darrah Winkler, Marketing and Events Manager for Channelside in a statement to ABC Action News. "We are delighted to partner with Friends of the Riverwalk and the City of Tampa to create an alternative that will allow the community to enjoy the fireworks this year and carry on this longstanding tradition."
The Tampa fireworks display will begin at midnight as per usual, and will be open to the public. But it will be transformed into a more family-friendly spot, so don't expect any food or beverage vendors in the viewing area. If you are in need of adult beverages there are the usual spots around Channelside, including Wet Willie's or Splitsville. The Sail Pavilion is also just a short walking distance from the park. As for food there's always wings and fun at Hooters - Channelside or a nice slice at Precinct Pizza.
With the mass amount of redevelopment going on in Downtown Tampa there could be some issues in finding a place to park. The Port Garage is still a safe bet even though there's a longer walk than normal. The lot directly across from Channelside Bay Plaza is normally free for two hours but will have a charge for New Year's Eve as the Tampa fireworks bring out lots of tourists and locals alike, as well as event parking pricing.
If you decide to ditch parking around Channelside the next best suggestion would be to use the Garage at Two Harbour Place. Parking could be limited there as patrons for other events like Jackson's Bistro NYE 2018 Celebration will also be using that space. However it's a beautiful walk over the bridge and possibly a nice spot to stop and watch the sky light up.
Looking for what to do on New Year's Eve in Tampa? How about 18 places in Tampa to ring in 2018? We got you covered here at 813area so keep it locked!
