Tampa’s weekend kicks off under the stars with the DroneArt Show lighting up the sky, followed by a full slate of family fun, festivals, and trading events on Saturday and Sunday. Whether you’re marveling at synchronized drones, partying with animals at ZooTampa, or hunting for rare pins at Busch Gardens, the weekend delivers something for everyone, while the weeknight calendar keeps the momentum going strong.

DroneArt Show: Music That Lights Up the NightWhat: Hundreds of drones, one breathtaking night skyWhen: Friday, March 20, and Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 8:45 p.m.Where: Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. Highway 301, TampaCost: Tickets start at $28.90

After selling more than 500,000 tickets worldwide, the DroneArt Show returns to Tampa for two nights on March 20 and 21 at the Florida State Fairgrounds. Hundreds of synchronized drones will take to the night sky, choreographed to live string music and forming stunning shapes, flowers, and constellations. This expanded production doubles the number of drones and introduces all-new aerial figures for a 65-minute open-air experience unlike anything else on the concert calendar. Doors open two hours before the 8:45 p.m. showtime, with free admission for children under 3.

Springtime Bash With Extended HoursWhat: The zoo is throwing a spring partyWhen: Saturday, March 21, and Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.Where: ZooTampa, 1101 W. Sligh Ave., TampaCost: Included with admission

The Tampa Lowry Park Zoo is throwing a Springtime Bash, keeping the gates open until 7 p.m. for an afternoon packed with family fun. Happy hour specials run from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. with buy-one-get-one food and drink deals at bars throughout the zoo, while a live DJ keeps the party going in the Africa section. Additional Signature Encounters are available to book, and March blockout dates lift after 2 p.m. for Zoo Fun ticket holders, making it the perfect excuse to stay for the whole afternoon.

Busch Gardens Pin Trading EventWhat: Trade, collect, and explore pins at Busch GardensWhen: Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.Where: Tiger Lodge, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 10165 McKinley Drive, TampaCost: Included with admission

The Busch Gardens Pin Trading Event gives collectors and trading enthusiasts a reason to head to the park on March 21, when Tiger Lodge hosts this special event from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Attendees can browse and trade new and rare pins. For every pin purchased, participants get the chance to play a game and trade from one of the event’s expansive pin trading boards. To join in, purchase a pin on the day of the event and show your receipt to the ambassador at the pin trading game station.

Other Events

Tampa’s weekend blends theater, food, and culture into a lineup worth stepping out for. From a captivating stage production and a waterfront seafood-and-wine celebration to a vibrant Colombian cultural festival, Saturday and Sunday offer something for every taste.

White Plume Productions Presents Naga-Mandala: Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at New Tampa Performing Arts Center, 8550 Hunters Village Road, TampaSeafood and Wine Fest: Saturday, March 21, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. at Tampa Bay Downs, 11225 Race Track Road, TampaQue Es Colombia Festival: Sunday, March 22, 2026, from 11 a.m. at Scottish Rite Masonic Center, 5500 Memorial Highway, TampaMore To Explore Next Week

Tampa’s weeknight lineup is anything but ordinary. From open mic laughs and Lightning hockey to painting events and a murder mystery on the water, there’s a reason to get out every night of the week.

Monday Comedy Open Mic: Monday, March 23, 2026, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. (recurring event) at The Gimmick, 2213 E. Sixth Ave., TampaTampa Bay Lightning vs. Minnesota Wild: Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the Benchmark International Arena, 401 Channelside Drive, TampaPaint With a Twist With Painttopia: Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Armature Works, 1910 N. Ola Ave., TampaMurder Mystery Dinner: Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at Yacht StarShip, 603 Channelside Drive, Tampa