The Valspar Championship begins Thursday, and Tampa will host March Madness starting Friday.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The spotlight is on the Tampa Bay area these next few days.

From the fairway to the hardwood, the Valspar Championship and March Madness, on top of an already booming spring break, are making March a major tourism month.

“We pride ourselves on being great hosts, so we’re super excited, and it doesn’t stop in March,” Visit Tampa Bay CEO Santiago Corrada said.

Aside from hotel stays, visitors are helping bring an influx of money through spending on dining out, entertainment, and transportation. The events also contribute to a stronger workforce by creating jobs, and tourism helps generate tax revenue.

Corrada said making tourism work takes collaboration with multiple stakeholders and sectors, making those relationships key to success.

“It’s a massive industry for us and it keeps the engine humming with a lot of gasoline. That gasoline being financial,” Corrada said.

Before the Valspar Championship officially tees off Thursday, big names, including Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield and former Buccaneers head coach Jon Gruden, also took part in the Tampa General Hospital Championship Pro-Am.

Gov. Ron DeSantis was also at the event and highlighted the impact beyond the course.

“This tournament has supported military veterans, all kinds of stuff over the years, it really shows how the PGA tour works on giving to the community,” DeSantis said.

Meanwhile, in St. Pete, it’s the calm before the crowds. Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill owner Mark Ferguson said business has been busy enough from spring break and that the buildup is underway with March Madness just ahead.

“I think from here on out, it’s non-stop business,” Ferguson said.

For many who’ve watched the Tampa Bay area grow, the transformation is hard to miss.

“I’m not going to say it was empty, but it wasn’t how it is now,” Robert Flantroy said. “Seeing everybody here, it’s just like a new life. It’s like a new life for the city.”

Beyond major sporting events, Corrada highlighted the Florida State Thespian Festival, which began Wednesday, and next month’s Premier League Mornings Live fan festival at Armature Works as key events to watch.