TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa is getting ready to green out the Hillsborough River as the city prepares for the 2024 River O' Green event.
The Irish-themed celebration is kicking off St. Patrick's Day by taking over Curtis Hixon Park in Downtown Tampa on Saturday, March 16.
The Tampa Downtown Partnership and Grow Financial are calling this year's event the largest celebration yet, according to a press release.
At 11 a.m., Tampa Mayor Jane Castor will sound the horn to begin dying the Hillsborough River emerald green for the holiday. The Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission examined the dye and approved it for use as part of the event.
Organizers are introducing several new features, including a second stage for more live performances.
Coinciding this year's River O' Green event is The Tampa Rough Riders' signature St. Patrick's Parade. Road closures go into effect at around 2 p.m. Below is a picture of the parade route.
Eventgoers can enjoy unique scenery with a brand new art walk near Four Green Fields Pub, highlighting local artists with Irish connections.
Other new additions to this year's festivities include a cabbage toss game, a Lucky Charms eating contest and the chance to win Busch Gardens tickets.
Several River O' Green favorites are returning from the catch "hurling" demonstrations and free boat rides, provided by the Freedom Boat Club, along the Hillsborough River.
“This annual tradition brings our community together and adds to the buzz of energy that’s running throughout Downtown’s neighborhoods right now,” said Shaun Drinkard, Interim President of the Tampa Downtown Partnership. “We’re thrilled to have the Rough Riders’ St. Patrick’s Parade march through the heart of Downtown for the first time. These complementing events will provide even more reason for families to get their green on and make new memories in Tampa’s Downtown.”
Here are some times you need to know regarding the entertainment schedule.
Main Stage (Near Ashley Drive):
- 11:15 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. – Paddy O'Furniture Band Performance
- 1:15 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. – TBD
- 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. – Phoenix Five Band Performance
Terrace Stage (Near Gasparilla Plaza):
- 11:30 a.m. – TBD
- 1 p.m. – Finnegan Irish Dance Academy Performance
- 2:30 p.m. – TBD
- 3 p.m. – Finnegan Irish Dance Academy Performance
- 3:30 p.m. – Pet Costume Contest sponsored by the Barrymore Hotel