News

Busch Gardens is offering guests varied entertainment options throughout the year with seasonal festivities, concerts and much more.

The events below are included in park admission, with thrilling attractions such as Iron Gwazi and the new Serengeti Flyer, opening in spring 2023.

Mardi Gras

The 14th of January – the 5th of March (select dates)

Inspired by New Orleans' biggest celebration, Mardi Gras at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will transport guests to a bayou-inspired fanfare featuring Cajun culinary delights, a lively parade with new festive characters, multi-coloured beads, an authentic brass band playing live and spirited entertainment offerings for the entire family. 

Real Music Series

17th January – 26th February (weekly; Tuesdays-Sundays)

Busch Gardens' longest-running concert series returns with all-new acts. The Stanleyville Theater will host live performances, including artistic renditions of some of the best-known classic rock, rhythm & blues, and pop bands. The line-up includes: 

• The Kings of Queen (Queen Tribute) - 17th January to 22nd January.
• Face 2 Face (Billy Joel Tribute) - 24th January to 29th January
• Foreigners Journey (Foreigner Tribute) - 31st January to 5th February. 
• Steve Michaels as Elvis (Elvis Prestley tribute) - 7th February 7 to 12th February
• Direct from Sweden (ABBA Tribute) - 14th February to 19th February
• The Purple Xperience (Prince Tribute) - 21st February to 26th February
  

Sesame Street Kids' Weekends

27th January – 12th February; 28th April – 21st May (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays)

Sesame Street Kids' Weekends at Busch Gardens is where kids and parents can join the fun. Now including Fridays, families have an additional option to meet and greet their favourite furry friends at the Sesame Street Safari of Fun area for story time, interactive dance parties, arts & crafts and more. In addition, new limited-time festivities happen each weekend of the event.

Food & Wine Festival

The 10th of March to the 21st of May (select dates)

Each weekend from 10th March 10 through 21st May, the Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival offers delectable dishes to pair with wines, craft brews and cocktails. While savouring culinary delights, guests can enjoy some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. The line-up for 2023 includes:

• Kansas - Saturday 11th March
• Maddie & Tae - Sunday, 12th March, 2023
• SWV - Saturday 18th March 2023
• Dustin Lynch - Sunday, 19th March 2023
• Rodney Atkins - Saturday, 25th March 2023
• Flo Rida - Sunday, 26th March 2023
• MacKenzie Porter - Sunday, 2nd April 2023
• The Fab Four - Sunday, 9th April 2023
• 38 Special - Saturday, 15th April 2023
• Mitchell Tenpenny - Saturday, 16th April 2023
• Hoobastank - Saturday, 29th April 2023
• The Como La Flor Band - Friday, 5th May 2023
• El Gran Combo - Sunday, 7th May 2023 

Cinco de Mayo

May 5 – 7 (Friday – Sunday)

Guests can enjoy tasty Mexican cuisine, authentic music and festive entertainment while celebrating Cinco de Mayo.

Viva la Música

May 5 – 21 (Friday, 5th May; Saturdays and Sundays)

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay hosts a Hispanic music, food and culture celebration from May 5 – 21. Guests can dance to live musical performances from award-winning Latin artists every Saturday and Sunday, plus Cinco de Mayo. The line-up for 2023 includes: