Spring in Tampa means longer days and warmer nights to be out and about. It’s also a perfect time to head over to Water Street Tampa. This March, the district is the veritable epicenter of activity in Tampa, with three huge events taking place around the already-popular dining, nightlife, hockey, and concerts.
No matter what you’re cup of tea, there’s something for everyone over the next few weeks in Water Street Tampa. From the NCAA Tournament and glow-in-the-dark mini golf to an open-air book festival, the calendar this month is looking full.
The NCAA Women’s Final Four took over Benchmark International Arena in April 2025
March Madness hits downtown
Basketball fans, rejoice, because this is your month. The NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament is bringing first and second round games to Benchmark International Arena on March 20 and March 22. Having the tournament downtown means the neighborhood will be charged with excitement (and maybe a little bracket chaos). You can get your tickets here.
Don’t want to splurge on tickets? No problem. Water Street still has plenty of spots to catch the action with other fans, and it’s sure to be full of visiting fans between games. Yard House and 3 Corners Pizza just outside the arena are always good bets for TVs, food, and rowdy people in jerseys. For a more casual vibe, the open-air dining hub at Sparkman Wharf often draws big groups during major sporting events. It has tons of great food and drink, with plenty of space to hang out between games.
Photo via Strategic Property Partners
Glow Putt Putt lights up Sparkman Wharf
Speaking of Sparkman Wharf, they’re actually joint-hosting one of Tampa’s most colorful pop-up experiences that same weekend, on March 20 and 21. Glow Putt Putt transforms both the lawn at Sparkman Wharf and Raybon Plaza into illuminated, after-dark mini-golf experiences from 6-10 pm each night. The temporary courses electrify the space with neon lights and glowing obstacles. Admission is only $10, and includes a nine-hole round.
Since the event runs during the same weekend as the first round of March Madness games, it is an easy way to mix a little friendly competition with the basketball excitement happening nearby.
Cover to Cover celebrates storytelling
Later in the month, don’t miss the dreamiest outdoor book fair. Cover to Cover returns for its second year, continuing a celebration of words, wit, and literary indulgence. Stands will line up Water Street on Wednesday, March 25, from 5:30-9:30PM, creating a literary bazaar. Admission is free.
Cover to Cover also features author talks/panels, readings, and signings. You can even donate your old books. All leftover books at the end of the evening will be donated to Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc, supporting literacy in the Tampa community.
Taste of Water Street on the horizon
As if March wasn’t enough, foodies can also look forward to another major event coming up in April. Taste of Water Street returns on April 16, from 5:30-9 pm. More than 25 of the city’s standout chefs and restaurants offer exclusive food and beverage tastings, making it one of the must-experience culinary events. Stroll the vibrant streets, savor chef-crafted bites, sip on signature cocktails, and enjoy the lively ambiance of this premier culinary event.
Tickets are $100 per person and include access to all tastings, with a portion of each ticket directly benefiting the Ronald McDonald House Tampa Bay. To ensure a smooth experience, guests will select a 30-minute entry time slot when purchasing tickets. Note that attendees do need to be 21+ to attend.
This March, get ready to crack open a cold one and drink to your favorite basketball team, play some glow-in-the-dark golf, discover your new fave author, and get your appetite ready for the month ahead. It’s the kind of month where showing up and being part of the vibe is just as fun as any event on the calendar.