The Hillsborough River will turn green as Tampa’s River O’ Green Festival returns for St Paddy's Day

The Hillsborough River will once again be transformed into a brighter shade of green as Tampa's annual River O’Green Festival returns to Curtis Hixon Park on March 18 from 11 am to 5 pm.

The bright green highlight of Tampa's St. Patrick’s Day celebration includes dying the Hillsborough River a brilliant emerald green.

The St Paddy's Day celebrations includes live entertainment, games, kids activities, food trucks, and of course, beer.

Visitors to the FREE River O’Green Festival can enjoy a Leprechaun contest, Irish music live on the Curtis Hixon stage, and tons of Irish food and beverages.

The River O’Green Fest is organized by Tampa’s Downtown Partnership with the City of Tampa and takes place along Tampa's Riverwalk.

“I love seeing the hundreds of people who come downtown, decked out in green gear, for a day full of food and fun. Tampa Downtown Partnership President and CEO Lynda Remund said.

“Seeing our Hillsborough River turn emerald green in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day is a great reminder of the excitement and fun that Tampa has to offer,” added Mayor Jane Castor. “I know how much I look forward to this annual tradition and the opportunity it brings to come together and celebrate all that makes our city great.”

The Hillsborough River will go green starting at 11am. Arrive early to watch the river-dyeing!

Oh and in case you are worried about the dye and its impact on the environment, organisers say that the dye used to turn the Hillsborough River green is completely safe.

The dye is completely safe for the environment, non-toxic, biodegradable, meets all EPA standards and is certified for use by NSF Std 60.

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