The city of Tampa is warning visitors to expect unusual crowds this weekend as spring break, St. Patrick's Day and entertainment events all converge downtown.
The city is asking downtown visitors to prepare for detours, road congestion and reduced parking spaces as people flood downtown from March 13 to 17.
Events include River O' Green Fest on Saturday, during which the Hillsboro River turns a deep emerald color for an all-day St. Patrick's Day party at Curtis Hixon Park. It will be dyed. This was followed by a new move by the Rough Riders, moving their annual parade from Ybor to downtown to coincide with the festival.
Other events this week include:
March 13th-16th: Florida State Thespians gather at the Tampa Convention Center.
March 14th-17th: Pied Piper's XOXO Carnival at Armature Works will feature a variety of rides and an artist lineup including DJ Pauly D, Sommer Rae, Dillon Francis and Two Friends. This is in addition to the approximately 100 creators who exhibit their work outside of Armature Works.
March 15th-17th: Molten Florida Qualifying Volleyball Tournament at the Tampa Convention Center.
March 16th: Comedian Tom Segura will appear at Amalie Arena at 8 p.m.
March 16th: Downtown Tampa River Ogreen At Curtis Hixon Park, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
March 16th: Rough Riders St. Patrick's Parade 5 p.m.
March 17th: Expect an increase in foot traffic on the St. Patrick's Day pub crawl.
The city is asking visitors to plan to arrive early for the event and consider using alternative transportation options. Proposals include taking advantage of the low-cost electric vehicle His DASH service operated by the Tampa Downtown Partnership and the available electric bike and electric scooter rental services, park in Ybor City, and enjoy free His TECO surfaces. Includes train ride.
“Please use extra caution when driving in or near downtown, as large numbers of pedestrians are expected,” the city's statement warns. “Tampa Police Department is on high alert for drunk drivers.”