After The Fireworks: 10 Ways To Keep Summer Going In South Florida

TAMPA — Now what?

The Fourth of July is over, but summer is not, and there are plenty of ways to keep the fun going in Tampa.

Summer’s second act includes smaller pleasures that keep July moving, from regular farmers markets and summer recreation programs to events like concerts, festivals and the Imperial Shriner's Parade.

Here are some other events to fill your summer calendar in Tampa.

Summer Asian Food & Music Festival

Sunday, July 12

The annual Summer Asian Food & Music Festival brings together vendors serving cuisines from across Asia alongside live cultural performances, shopping opportunities and family-friendly entertainment. The event highlights the diversity of Tampa Bay's Asian communities

Imperial Shriners Parade

Tuesday, July 14

Join the 2026 Imperial Session Parade hosted by the Egypt Shriners for a community celebration. Experience the festivities along the primary viewing area on 7th Avenue, where dedicated ambassadors will be on hand to guide spectators to the best vantage points.

J. Cole: The Fall-Off Tour

Wednesday, July 15

Experience an unforgettable night of hip-hop as J. Cole brings The Fall-Off Tour to the Benchmark International Arena. Secure your tickets via Ticketmaster for this highly anticipated live performance featuring one of the industry's most influential artists

3rd Thursday Tampa

Thursday, July 16

Experience Downtown Tampa's premier monthly street food fest at Grand Central at Kennedy. This gourmet event features an array of food trucks, live music, and handcrafted cocktails from local restaurants. Enjoy free admission, dog-friendly atmosphere, and two hours of free on-site parking at this local grassroots community market.

Chicago & Styx: The Windy Cities Tour

Friday, July 17

Classic rock legends Chicago and Styx bring their co-headlining tour to Tampa's MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre for an evening featuring decades of hits from both bands.

Megan Moroney: The Cloud 9 Tour

Friday, July 17

Pop music super star Megan Moroney is bringing her Cloud 9 Tour to the stage at Benchmark International Arena. For every ticket sold, $1 is donated to the Megan Moroney Foundation to support initiatives combating bullying and promoting mental health well-being.

Yuengling Watermelon Market

Friday, July 17

Come out for a spirited watermelon-themed night market in the courtyard of Yuengling Draft Haus and Kitchen, featuring over 40 local vendors and epic eats. Enjoy fresh watermelon slices, juices, and crafts, or test your skills in the watermelon eating contest at 7 p.m.

Water Street Tampa Market

Sunday, July 19

Local artisans, farmers and food vendors will line the streets of Water Street Tampa during the monthly outdoor market. Visitors can shop for handmade goods, fresh produce, baked treats and locally crafted products while enjoying live entertainment.

Busch Gardens Summer Nights

Daily through Aug. 9

One of Tampa's biggest summer attractions continues throughout July as Busch Gardens extends park hours and adds nighttime entertainment. Summer Nights features live music, dance parties, special performances, fireworks on select evenings and late-night rides on the park's roller coasters, all included with regular admission.

Busch Gardens Bier Fest Brews & BBQ

Weekends beginning July 25 through Sept. 7

Busch Gardens kicks off its annual Bier Fest on July 25 with dozens of craft beers, barbecue specialties, live entertainment and seasonal food offerings. The festival is included with park admission and takes place every Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day weekend.

Are you planning an event this summer? Feature it so nearby readers see it all across Patch — including in roundups like this!