Can we talk about how September through December are the BEST months in Tampa Bay!
1. Red Bull Dance Your Style National Final USA
Saturday, September 19, 2026 | Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Tampa Convention Center (333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602)
I’ve attended the last 2 years and I loved it. The dancers are so talented and the energy is so high. I’d recommend you sit on the bleachers if you’re over 30 years old. I sat on the floor to be closer and my back was killing me after! There are several events in Tampa but this is the main event where the top dancers from across the country face off 1 on 1, with the crowd voting live to determine who advances to the World Final. (Red Bull)
2. First- ever Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival
America's 250th continues Labor Day Weekend September 4-5 | Time 4:30 PM
I’ve never been to a rodeo so this will be my first time but the July event did so well that they are making this an annual tradition. We’ll be able to enjoy two nights of full rodeo competitions featuring bull riding, bronco busting, barrel racing, calf roping. I’m not sure what this means but I’m excited to find out. Hope to see you there! (Rodeo)
Fall in Tampa Bay is the beginning of high season and for good reason. The weather cools down and the Fall decor comes out. I’m already getting media preview invites for some fun events so make sure to save your faves this year!
Fall in Tampa Bay is the beginning of high season and for good reason. The weather cools down and the Fall decor comes out. I’m already getting media preview invites for some fun events so make sure to save your faves this year!
3. Busch Gardens' Howl-O-Scream
September 11-October 31
If you love haunted houses, scare zones, live entertainment and nighttime roller coasters (on select nights) then this is the event for you. I’m not a fan of driving to Orlando every time I need a haunted house fix and I love that Tampa has so many options so I will be sharing them ALL.
4. UNDead in the Water
Select Dates in September & October
Location: 706 Channelside Drive
This is for a more unique haunted experience. You are on the historic WWII cargo ship American Victory and walk through the deck to see the haunted nautical attractions. Last year this was my favorite spooky activity so I’m excited to see what they do this year. (UNDead)
5. Go to Oktoberfest — yes, Tampa has one
October 9-11 | Friday 4 PM | Sat-Sun 11 AM
Location: Curtis Hixon Park
If you’ve never heard of it, it is the largest Bavarian folk festival in Tampa Bay, held annually along the Hillsborough River at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. The 3 day event transforms downtown Tampa into a traditional German festival ground complete with authentic food, cold Bavarian brews, live music, and interactive competitions. I remember the first year I moved here, I stumbled into it and had the best time. You’re eating bratwurst, schnitzel and giant pretzels along with a huge beer. I suggest you leave the kids home for this one!
6. Tampa Bay Comic Convention
September 4–6 | Friday 12 PM | Sat-Sun 10 AM
Location: Tampa Bay Convention Center
This weekend in September kicks off with one of Tampa's biggest pop-culture weekends. Expect cosplay, celebrity guests, comics, anime, gaming, vendors and plenty of people who are much more committed to their costumes than you are. I’ve been in NYC but never in Tampa but if you’re down for a unique experience then add this to your must-do list!
7. Visit a local pumpkin patch for the obligatory fall photo
September & October throughout the city
There are so many options in the area: Gallagher’s Pumpkin and Christmas Tree Patch, South Tampa Pumpkin Patch, Hyde Park Village Pumpkin Patch, Great Pumpkin Patch in Seminole Heights, Ananda Farms, Southern Hill Farms, Sweetfields Farm, Fox Squirrel Corn Maze.
These are perfect for the whole family and you can get great photos. I love being able to visit 2-3 every year but if you can do them all in the season, let me know!
8. Pied Piper Haunted Carnival
Date & Location TBD
If you’re looking for more of a party atmosphere then this is one of my favorites. It’s hosted outdoors at Armature Works which means you can be as close to the stage as you’d like or further out if you don’t love crowds. It can get very busy but the music is a vibe and everyone is there to dress up and have a good time! You can go for the huge DJs they have but also the carnival rides and foods. I’ve gone 3 years in a row so you know it’s a fave of mine!
9. Scream A Geddon
September 4- October
Okay so another spooky event and this one is a bit of a drive but totally worth it. There have haunted houses, food, drinks, scare zones and my favorite is the Zombie Paintball Assault. This is one of my favorite haunted attractions available near Tampa Bay! (SCREAM)
10. Taste of Latino Festival and Empanada Smackdown
October 11 | 12 PM
Location: Centennial Park
A huge outdoor celebration featuring Latin food vendors, live music, the Empanada Smackdown competition, and cultural performances right in the heart of historic Ybor. This will be my first time attending!
11. Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail
September & October
This is on my to do list this year. I’ve haven’t been yet but it looks cool because you are walking through actual trails outdoors which makes it a bit more unpredictable. Along with 3 main haunted walking trails, they feature two interactive escape games, a laser tag experience, axe throwing, and a centerpiece spooky village with themed photo ops, food trucks, and live performers.
12. Winthrop Restaurant Week
Sept 17-27
This is perfect for my fellow foodies! Participating Restaurants Include:
Acropolis Greek Taverna
Cali
Cappy's Pizzeria
Donovan's Meatery
Himes Breakfast House
Longshots
The Patio
Tutto Tavola
Each participating business will feature a special menu that’s only available during Restaurant Week. Order off the restaurant’s regular menu or order off the Restaurant Week menu to try new menu items or a curated pre-fixe menu and take advantage of special pricing!
13. St. Jude Walk Tampa
September 26 | 7:30 AM
Location: BenchMark Arena
I always try to include events that give back to the Tampa Bay area. As the community event for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the St. Jude Walk unites supporters across the country to provide hope and healing for families during their toughest times. You can start a team, join an existing team or participate as an individual. (Register)
Pied Piper Haunted Carnival is always a good time!