Looking for an action-packed and entertaining weekend in Tampa Bay? Look no further! From thrilling dinosaur adventures to fascinating comic conventions and family-friendly fairs, this weekend offers loads of exciting activities for everyone.
Friday, July 28
Tampa Bay Comic Con (11 am – 10 pm)
Step into a world of imagination and fandom at Tampa Bay Comic Con, the largest family-friendly comic convention in the area. This extraordinary event brings together exhibitors from various interests, including comic books, toys, games, anime, manga, and much more. Browse through a diverse array of comic industry professionals and celebrities as they engage in meet and greets with enthusiastic fans.
Jurassic Quest (12 pm – 8 pm)
Prepare to embark on a thrilling journey to the prehistoric era at Jurassic Quest, the world’s largest dinosaur event! Held at the Florida State Fairgrounds, this interactive and educational exhibition offers an immersive experience for all ages. Encounter life-sized animatronic dinosaurs that roar, move, and make you feel like you’re standing among ancient giants. Don’t miss the chance to play with adorable baby dinosaurs, dig for fossils, and even train a raptor. It’s an adventure-filled day that will awe both kids and adults!
Barbie Skate at United Skates of America (6:30 pm – 9:30 pm)
Experience the magic of the hottest summer movie with a Barbie-themed skate party at United Skates of America. This fun-filled event promises excitement for Barbie fans of all ages. Enjoy engaging games, participate in the Barbie and Ken Look-A-Like Contest, and capture picture-perfect moments at the Barbie Photo Box. With admission, including skates, it’s a fantastic family outing that guarantees endless smiles and memories to cherish.
Glow in the Park at Altitude Trampoline Park (7 pm – 10 pm)
As the sun sets, the excitement rises at Altitude Trampoline Park’s Glow in the Park event! Dive into a neon wonderland where the trampolines come alive with vibrant colors, and the atmosphere is filled with energy. Put on your Altitude Safety Socks and experience a gravity-defying adventure under the mesmerizing glow-in-the-dark lights. The park welcomes jumpers of all ages, and even non-jumpers can join in the fun by spectating from the sidelines.
Friday Night Meltdown Public Skate at AdventHealth Center Ice (7:45 pm – 9:45 pm)
Kickstart your weekend with an exhilarating Friday Night Meltdown at AdventHealth Center Ice. Experience the thrill of ice skating accompanied by a live DJ, colored lights, and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner, this public skate session offers a fantastic opportunity to glide across the ice, showcasing your moves and enjoying the company of family and friends. Admission includes skate rental, making it a convenient and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Saturday, July 29
16th Annual Back to School Fair (10 am – 2 pm)
Saturday marks the 16th Annual Back-to-School Fair, presented by Hillsborough County Public Schools, held at WestShore Plaza. During the Sales Tax Holiday Saturday, this fair is the perfect opportunity to accomplish your back-to-school shopping while enjoying a day of family fun. The first 500 kids in line will receive a free backpack, setting the tone for a day filled with surprises and giveaways. Look forward to exciting meet and greet sessions with local team mascots and princesses, live presentations, and various forms of entertainment.
Kids Zone at Epperson Lagoon (11 am – 2 pm)
Head to the Kid’s Zone in the Hub for an action-packed safari adventure! Enjoy a day of jungle-themed games, engaging crafts, and an interactive DJ, setting the stage for a memorable experience for kids and families alike. From exciting activities to meeting new friends, the Kids Zone at Epperson Lagoon promises a day full of laughter, joy, and endless fun.
Sandbar Snorkel Tours (11 am – 1 pm)
Dive into a unique underwater exploration with Sandbar Snorkel Tours by Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center at St. Pete Pier. This captivating tour offers a fantastic opportunity to discover the marine wonders of Tampa Bay’s sandbars. With the water’s calmness and the shallow depth of the sandbar, even first-time snorkelers can enjoy an up-close encounter with the bay’s intriguing marine life. Explore the underwater world and marvel at the beauty of hermit crabs, sponges, sea stars, and more.
Santa’s Paradise: Creative Kids (11:30 am – 1 pm)
Ever wondered what Santa does during the summer? Experience the magic of Christmas in July at EPIC during Santa’s Paradise: Creative Kids event. Designed for children aged 5 to 10, this delightful event offers a range of enjoyable activities. Create masterpieces with air-drying clay, indulge in allergen-free snow cones, and relax in the unique salt room with its loose pink-Himalayan salt floor. Engage in games, fun activities, and make unforgettable memories as you embrace the spirit of Christmas during this enchanting event.
Esports Open Play at Northdale Recreation Center (1 pm – 4:30 pm)
Gamers, assemble! Join the Esports Open Play event at Northdale Recreation Center for an exciting afternoon of competitive gaming. The Esports Lounge boasts six 65-inch televisions, top-of-the-line gaming consoles, comfortable gaming chairs, and high-speed internet, ensuring the ultimate gaming experience. Test your skills in popular games such as Super Smash Bros., Fortnite, Rocket League, Paladins, Pokémon Unite, and Mario Kart.
Create in the MAKE Container: SPACEcraft Largo Central Park (5 pm – 7 pm)
Calling all young creators! Explore your artistic side in the MAKE Container during SPACEcraft at Largo Central Park. This FREE event offers a range of self-guided art workshops and craft activities for kids. Dive into your imagination and let your creativity flow as you engage in various artistic endeavors. From painting to sculpting, this creative extravaganza provides a unique platform for young minds to express themselves through art.
Day of Discovery at Florida Aquarium (5:30 pm – 7 pm)
The Florida Aquarium, invites families and children with sensory differences and accessibility challenges to experience a Day of Discovery. During this special event, the entire aquarium campus opens for exploring, featuring engaging touch habitats with moon jellies, stingrays, anemones, and more. The Splash Pad also welcomes attendees, so bring a bathing suit, water shoes, and a towel for refreshing fun. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and parking is complimentary in The Florida Aquarium lot.
Back to School Drive Splash at Tampa Tarpons (6:30 pm)
Get ready to make a Splash as the Tampa Tarpons gear up for the new school year with a Back-to-School Drive Splash event. The first 1000 kids (12 and under) in attendance will receive a Tampa Tarpons Backpack presented by Fifth Third Bank, setting them up for the school year in style. Moreover, the All-You-Can-Eat & Drink ticket option, available in advance, promises an enjoyable post-game experience with a delectable spread.
Sunday, July 30
Sunday Breakfast Bowl at Pin Chasers (9 am – 11 am)
Start your Sunday morning on a delightful note with the Sunday Breakfast Bowl at Pin Chasers. Gather the whole family and indulge in a special breakfast and bowling extravaganza. The package includes two hours of bowling, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all skill levels. Relish a delicious breakfast of two eggs cooked your way, crispy bacon, and warm toast, making it a fulfilling and tasty start to your day.
Sunshine Sunday at Glazer Children’s Museum (10 am – 1 pm)
Children’s Museum opens its doors for Sunshine Sunday, a special monthly event designed for children with special needs and their caregivers. The museum creates an environment tailored to accommodate sensory differences during this event. Families can explore the museum’s various exhibits, engage in activities, and connect with others on a similar journey, fostering a sense of inclusivity and belonging.
$5 Sundays at Imagine Museum (12 pm – 5 pm)
Delve into the world of contemporary glass art, imagination, and community at Imagine Museum during $5 Sundays. Each Sunday, this fascinating museum opens its doors at a reduced admission fee of just $5, offering all visitors an affordable and enriching experience. Explore the captivating exhibits showcasing the brilliance of glass artistry, creativity, and innovation.
Fun for All Ages
With an exciting lineup of events in Tampa Bay, this weekend promises endless fun and memorable experiences for families, friends, and individuals of all ages. From encountering life-sized dinosaurs to exploring the vibrant world of comics and enjoying family-friendly fairs, there’s no shortage of entertainment in Tampa Bay. Have a great weekend, folks!