SEE MAP: Tampa St. Patrick’s Parade traffic interruptions

Charles Merlis
·2 min read

Related Video: Hillsborough River ‘goes green’ ahead of River O’ Green festival.

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — St. Patrick’s Day is here, and as Tampa residents prepare for a weekend of festivities around the city, they must be aware of potential detours, congested roads, and filled parking lots. Being prepared for these challenges will ensure a smoother experience.

The city is encouraging visitors to plan to arrive early for their event and consider using alternative means of transportation, such as parking in Ybor City, taking the Free TECO Streetcar, or using the DASH service (operated by the Tampa Downtown Partnership).

The Tampa Police Department will be vigilant for anyone driving under the influence and has asked that drivers be cautious when passing through and near downtown due to the higher number of pedestrians than usual.

Events around Tampa include Tampa’s Downtown River O’ Green festivities and Rough Riders St. Patrick’s Parade. Nearby shows and other events, tens of thousands of visitors are expected to fill the downtown area between March 13-17.

Source: Tampa.gov
Source: Tampa.gov

The parade will begin at 5 p.m. at Joe Chillura Courthouse Square, 600 E. Kennedy Boulevard. It will continue west on Madison Street, turn right on Ashley Drive, then right on Polk Street before ending at Florida Avenue.

Events in Tampa this weekend include:

  • March 13 – 16 Tampa Convention Center – FL State Thespians

  • March 14 – 17 Armature Works – Pied Piper’s XOXO Carnival 

  • March 15 – 17 Tampa Convention Center – Molten Florida Pre-Qualifier (volleyball tournament)

  • March 16 Amalie Arena – Tom Segura (8 pm)

  • March 16 Curtis Hixon Park – Tampa’s Downtown River O’ Green (11 a.m. – 6 p.m.)                       

  • March 16 Downtown Tampa – Rough Riders St. Patrick’s Parade (5 p.m.) 

  • March 17 St. Patrick’s Day (increased foot traffic expected downtown)

Road closures begin at 1 p.m. and remain closed after the parade.

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