It’s never too early to start looking ahead and planning! If those plans include Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, here’s a list of 2026 events, from the official press release.
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Real Music Series
Busch Gardens’ longest-running concert series returns with legendary artists performing across genres, from classic rock to soul, live at the Stanleyville Theater.
Mardi Gras
Captivated by the lively hues and delicious tastes of New Orleans’ grandest celebration, Mardi Gras will whisk visitors away to a lively world of bayou-inspired revelry. This immersive experience includes delectable Cajun-inspired culinary treats, an energetic parade showcasing festive characters, a cascade of multicolored beads, a live and authentic brass band, and a range of spirited entertainment options suitable for the whole family. Mardi Gras is included with daily park admission, Annual Pass or Fun Cards.
Busch Gardens Kids’ Weekends
Experience the excitement of Kids’ Weekends, where families can come together and connect with beloved Sesame Street characters at the Safari of Fun, get up close to over 200 species of animals and experience “first thrills” on rides like Air Grover, Stanley Falls Flume and the Phoenix Rising coaster. Plus, enjoy story time, interactive dance parties, arts & crafts, and a variety of engaging activities. Limited-time festivities happen each weekend of the event, all included with park admission, Annual Pass or Fun Cards.
Food & Wine Festival
In the spring, guests can enjoy Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s tastiest event, the Food & Wine Festival and concert series. All-New Culinary cabins offer a variety of mouth-watering delicacies, craft brews, cocktails and wines. A one-stop-shop for all the epicurious out there, this popular event also features live concerts ranging from diverse music genres, including urban, classic rock, Christian and pop. Guests will enjoy the delicious food, festive wines and vibrant concert series surrounded by the beautiful gardens that give Busch Gardens its name. This event is included with daily park admission, Annual Pass or Fun Cards.
Summer Events
With extended park hours, the party continues past sunset giving guests the opportunity to enjoy a full day at the park, explore the park after dark and feel the thrill of riding roller coaster at night. The night comes to an end with a spectacular drone and firework show that has to be seen to be believed. In 2026 there will be even more ALL-NEW exciting surprises coming to Summer Nights that will make you feel like King of the Forest….but more to come on that in later in 2025 so stay tuned. This event is included with daily park admission, Annual Pass or Fun Cards.
Bier Fest Brews & BBQ
Sip delicious brews and soar on epic coasters at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Bier Fest Brews & BBQ. Guests at Bier Fest enjoy ALL-NEW bold BBQ flavors, refreshing craft brews and lively tunes in a festive atmosphere reminiscent of a classic German brewhouse. Bier Fest features a rotating selection of 30 to 40 craft beers, handpicked from over 30 breweries offering a variety of flavors and styles to explore throughout the festival. With live music, exciting rides and a festive atmosphere, Bier Fest Brews & BBQ is an unforgettable experience for food and thrill enthusiasts alike. Bier Fest is included with daily park admission, Annual Pass or Fun Cards.
Sweetacular
At Busch Gardens Sweetacular, guests can immerse themselves in a charming realm of enchantment filled with family-friendly Halloween delights that are more delightful than frightening. This event, perfect for families, includes a costume parade, story time, and trick-or-treating. Busch Gardens Sweetacular is included with daily park admission, Annual Pass or Fun Cards.
Howl-O-Scream
Voted by USA Today readers as the #1 Best Theme Park Halloween Event, Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream transforms the park into an immersive experience featuring ALL-NEW spine-tingling scares, eerie haunted houses, a shocking live show and sinister surprises lurking in every dark corner. Guests will want to brace for adrenaline-pumping thrill rides under the cover of night on select evenings. Howl-O-Scream is a separately ticketed event.
Christmas Town
Christmas Town, a festive winter wonderland, invites guests to celebrate holiday traditions amidst almost 70 miles of twinkling lights, ALL-NEW delightful treats, lively entertainment, and the ideal backdrop for capturing cherished family moments. Christmas Town is included with daily park admission, Annual Pass or Fun Cards.
To learn more about all the events, special deals and future announcements, guests can visit BuschGardensTampa.com and by following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok.