Hot Weather, Cold Beer, and a Green River: Tampa’s River O’ Green Celebration
Thousands of people join the St. Patrick's Day celebration in downtown Tampa on Saturday, March 14, 2026, to drink beer, get beads, and find the luck of the Irish.
The weather was hot, the beer was flowing, and the crowds were shoulder-to-shoulder as the annual River O’ Green St. Patrick’s Day celebration washed over downtown Tampa. The party kicked off with a lively festival at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park before spilling into the streets for the always-raucous Tampa Rough Riders parade.
The Hillsborough River is dyed a fluorescent green to celebrate St. Patrick's day weekend
The Brisket Shoppe served up the perfect St. Patrick's Day treat with smoked corned beef brisket sandwiches. Several other food and drink vendors offered up goodies as well.
Irish dancers and music entertained in Curtis Hixon Park for the annual River O' Green.
Performers from the Finnegan Irish Dance Academy strut their stuff for the audience at Curtis Hixon Park.
A traditional stein hoist tested the strength and fortitude of competitors. By the way, that’s not really beer in the steins. Sponsors don’t want to waste the good stuff when someone’s arm gives out
The Gobshites band help the crowd party outside of Four Green Fields
It’s bring your own disco ball for some attendees partying before the parade
It's all about the green in the annual River O’Green and the Tampa Rough Riders St. Patrick's Day parade
Thousands of green-clad revelers packed the park to watch the Hillsborough River turn a festive shade of emerald, take part in contests, enjoy Irish-inspired music and entertainment, and grab bites from local vendors like The Brisket Shoppe.
From there, the celebration marched straight into the parade, where more than 100 floats, marching bands, krewes, and local dignitaries rolled through downtown tossing beads and spreading St. Paddy’s cheer. Leading the procession as Grand Marshal was Thaddeus Bullard—better known to many as former WWE superstar Titus O’Neil—who helped cap off one of Tampa’s liveliest springtime traditions.
Tampa Rough Riders president Lieut. Col. Robin Conn leads the parade. The Rough Riders host the annual event.
Parade Grand Marshall Thaddeus Bullard, former WWE Superstar Titus O'Neil.
Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel- Ireland's Veterans Charity are special guests for the day’s activities
Dancers from the Second Time Arounders sparkle on Ashley Drive
Warm temperatures did not diminish the need for beads from the thousands of people attending the Rough Riders St. Patrick's Day parade.
It’s tall hats, green shirts, and a party attitude throughout the parade route