Tampa Bay Weekend Events Guide
From intimate songwriter sets and legendary performers to comedy, sports, art, and high-energy festivals, Tampa Bay is packed with options this weekend. Here’s your day-by-day guide so you can plan accordingly.
Thursday, January 15
Matt Pond PA
Jack Kerouac House | 7:00 PM
Indie-folk favorite Matt Pond brings his emotionally rich songwriting to the intimate and historic Jack Kerouac House. Expect a stripped-down, heartfelt performance that feels more like a living room concert than a traditional show—perfect for fans who love lyrical depth and close-up vibes.
Tickets
Friday, January 16
Kevin James
Ruth Eckerd Hall | 7:00 PM
The king of relatable comedy hits the stage with his signature observational humor and laugh-out-loud storytelling. Whether you know him from stand-up or sitcom fame, this is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Tickets
Jesse Cook
Bilheimer Capitol Theatre | 8:00 PM
World-renowned guitarist Jesse Cook blends flamenco, jazz, and world music into a mesmerizing live experience. This is a perfect night out for music lovers looking for something soulful and transportive.
Tickets
Finest in Funk – All Vinyl DJ Set
Flor Fina at Hotel Haya | 8:00–11:00 PM
DJ A.J. Hall spins nothing but vinyl funk classics, turning Ybor City into a groovy time capsule. Expect rare cuts, iconic hits, and cocktails that pair perfectly with nonstop dancing.
Details
The Florida Orchestra: The Billy Joel Songbook
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Classic Billy Joel hits get the full orchestral treatment, performed by Tony DeSare alongside The Florida Orchestra. A polished, sing-along-worthy night celebrating one of pop music’s greatest catalogs.
Tickets
Tampa Bay Rodeo’s Bull Bash & Country Music Festival
Hillsborough County Fairgrounds | Jan 16–17
Two nights of adrenaline-fueled bull riding and major country acts, with Justin Moore on Friday and Trace Adkins on Saturday. Add food, drinks, and patriotic tributes, and you’ve got a full-on festival weekend.
Tickets
Saturday, January 17
Southern Culture on the Skids
Skipper’s Smokehouse | 8:00 PM
This cult-favorite band delivers a wild mix of rock, surf, and Southern swagger. Expect high energy, humor, and a crowd that’s ready to party from the first note.
Tickets
Chuck Redd with La Lucha
New Tampa Performing Arts Center | 8:00 PM
Jazz meets Latin rhythms in this dynamic performance featuring vibraphonist Chuck Redd and Tampa favorites La Lucha. Smooth, vibrant, and musically rich from start to finish.
Tickets
Al Di Meola
Nancy & David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre | 8:00 PM
Legendary guitarist Al Di Meola brings technical mastery and genre-defying compositions to Clearwater. A must-see for serious music fans and guitar enthusiasts alike.
Tickets
Bored Teachers: Is It Friday Yet? Comedy Tour
Tampa Theatre | 7:30 PM
Comedy straight from the classroom trenches, this tour turns everyday teacher chaos into hilarious stand-up. Even if you’ve never graded a paper in your life, you’ll laugh hard.
Tickets
Level X Dance Complex 2026 Showcase
The Palladium at SPC
The first annual LX Dance Co. Showcase highlights talented dancers of all ages bringing creativity, energy, and precision to the stage. A great afternoon event for families and dance fans.
Details
Rides by the River – Evening Edition
Armature Works | 6:00–9:00 PM
A free, all-ages car show featuring collector cars, imports, exotics, and more along the riverwalk. Come for the cars, stay for the people-watching and waterfront vibes.
Details
USF Women’s Basketball vs. Wichita State
Yuengling Center | 7:00–9:00 PM
Saturday night college hoops with high energy and home-court intensity as the Bulls take on Wichita State. Wear green and gold and bring the noise.
Tickets
Sunday, January 18
Gregory Alan Isakov
Mahaffey Theater | 8:00 PM
Beloved for his poetic lyrics and atmospheric folk sound, Gregory Alan Isakov delivers a deeply moving live performance that feels both intimate and expansive.
Tickets
Invincible: A Glorious Michael Jackson Celebration
Ruth Eckerd Hall | 1:00 PM
A high-energy tribute honoring the music, dance, and legacy of Michael Jackson. Expect iconic hits, powerhouse vocals, and choreography that keeps the spirit alive.
Tickets
Judy Collins
Bilheimer Capitol Theatre | 7:00 PM
A folk music legend takes the stage, delivering timeless songs and storytelling that have resonated for decades. A rare chance to see an icon in an intimate setting.
Tickets
USF Men’s Basketball vs. Wichita State
Yuengling Center | 2:00–4:00 PM
Sunday afternoon basketball brings fast pace and competitive energy as the Bulls face Wichita State. Perfect for a laid-back but spirited game-day experience.
Tickets
Fourth Annual Black Art Gala
Straz Center | 6:00–9:00 PM
An elegant evening celebrating Black artists and community leaders with live performances, visual art, and culture-forward energy. A meaningful and stylish way to close out the weekend.
Details
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