march Top Picks

Our favorite family-friendly events in Tampa Bay

BUGTOPIA at ZooTampa: Now through April 30

Giant larger-than-life BUGS have taken over ZooTampa! Guests will shrink down and be immersed in BUGTOPIA, the fantastic world of animals that slither, crawl and fly. Join Professor Mo Alexander and his research assistants as they explore the important and fascinating role these tiny creatures play in the preservation of the world we share. Included with general admission. zootampa.org

Florida Strawberry Festival: March 2-12

Enjoy 11 days of music, food and fun for all ages with paid concerts, free entertainment, shows, contests, pig races, livestock and much more. The Midway is packed with games and over 80 rides for the kids to enjoy. Youngsters can try the Kiddie Korral while night owls will enjoy Moonlight Magic. Don’t forget the awesome festival foods including Florida Strawberry Festival’s winning strawberry shortcake! Admission and ride discounts are also available. flstrawberryfestival.com

Gasparilla Festival of The Arts: March 4-5

The 2023 GFA showcases artists and their work including ceramic, digital, drawing, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, watercolor and wood. Taking place along Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, GFA will also feature the works of local young artists as well as children’s activities and a weekend full of live entertainment emceed by ABC Action News Meteorologist Denis Phillips. General admission is free and VIP Experiences are available for purchase. gasparillaarts.com

WICKED at The Straz Center: March 8-22

The enchanting Tony-award winning sensation returns to Tampa! See what really happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives comes the story of two unlikely friends, Glinda and Elphaba. From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, WICKED tells the untold true story of the Witches of Oz. strazcenter.org

Thomas the Train at the Florida Railroad Museum: March 10-12, 18-19

Get ready for a full day of fun when Thomas the Tank Engine rolls into town for a day of BIG dreams and even BIGGER smiles. Jump on board Thomas for an interactive train ride, pick up your Dream Pass and head to the Play Pod or say hello to Sir Topham Hatt. For the little engineers who want a little more excitement, check out the Dream Big Corner for photos ops, lawn games and more. And don’t forget to head to the Exclusive Pop-Up gift shop for toys and swag! Bring the whole family and imagine how far you will go! frrm.org

Disney on Ice presents Road Trip Adventures: March 23-26

Hit the road with Mickey Mouse and his pals for the high-octane “Disney on Ice presents Road Trip Adventures!” Exciting twists and turns await as Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and guests of all ages embark on an interactive and memory-rich adventure to iconic Disney destinations featuring scenes from “Mary Poppins,” “Moana,” “The Lion King,” “Aladdin” and “Toy Story.” Fans will hit a high note with Mickey and pals while singing along to beloved Disney tunes as they welcome Merida, Belle, Ariel, Mulan and Tiana to the ice. disneyonice.com

Tall Ships® St. Pete: March 30-April 2

Join Tall Ships® for a 4-day maritime celebration as the Port St. Pete becomes an Official Host Port of the TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® Gulf Coast Series! Don’t miss this rare chance to catch a glimpse, step aboard and even set sail on the 2023 fleet of tall ships. Kids of all ages will love touring and exploring these majestic tall ships. Enjoy fine festival foods and food trucks, craft beers, music, street performers, kids activities and festival marketplace. Tall Ships® St. Pete promises to be an experience you and your family will never forget! Tickets are selling fast, reserve yours now! Festival Tickets starts at $9.95. tallshipsstpete.com