Busch Gardens Tampa Bay unveils 2023 events schedule

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay released a full line-up of special events for 2023.

It offers guests varied entertainment options through the year with seasonal festivities, concerts and more.

They are included in park admission with thrilling attractions such as Gwazi and the new Serengeti Flyer opening in spring 2023.

Mardi Gras

January 14 – March 5 (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

January 17 – February 26 (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.

Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends

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

Sesame Street Kids’ Weekends at Busch Gardens is the place for kids and parents to 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. New limited-time festivities happen each weekend of the event.

Food & Wine Festival

March 10 – May 21 (select dates)

Each weekend from March 10 through May 21, 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:

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, May 5; Saturdays and Sundays)

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

Summer Nights

May 26 – Aug. 6 (daily)

Thrills continue after dark with a festive ambiance. Summer Nights is powered by vibrant entertainment including new shows, an updated ice-skating show and more. Fireworks are available on select nights.

4^th of July

June 30 – July 4 (Friday – Tuesday)

Celebrate Independence Day with a synchronised fireworks spectacular set to an emotive soundtrack, entertainment and more.

Bier Fest

July 21 – Sept. 4 (Friday – Sunday plus Labor Day)

Bier Fest offers the ultimate combo – a delectable blend of food and favourite craft beers from around the world. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from July 28 through Sept. 4, and Labor Day.

Howl-O-Scream

Sept. 8 – Oct. 31 (select nights)

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is transformed into a waking nightmare for Howl-O-Scream 2023. Experience spine-chilling haunted houses and thrilling rides on select nights from Sept. 8 through Oct. 31. Howl-O-Scream is a separately ticketed event.

Spooktacular

Sept. 8 – Oct. 31 (Fridays – Sundays plus October 30-31)

At Busch Gardens Spooktacular, guests will step into a whimsical world of enchantment full of not-so-spooky Halloween fun. This family-friendly event features a costume parade, story time and trick-or-treating.

Christmas Town

Nov. 13 – Jan. 7, 2024 (daily)

A celebration of Yuletide traditions, Christmas Town is the holiday winter wonderland for guests to enjoy millions of lights, heart-warming treats, and festive entertainment.