What's Happening at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in May

Check out all the latest news from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, including special events, ride closures and more.

Anytime is a great time to visit Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, but May is an especially great time with so much happening, including Sesame Street Weekends, Cinco de Mayo, and the start of the extra special Summer Nights!

Read on for all the details.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival

Now - May 21, 2023

Tampa Bay's favorite spring festival continues at the annual Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival runs until May 21.

Enjoy the delicious menu and drinks as you sip and savor your way through flavorful eats and mouthwatering treats before finding their new favorite brew or cocktail.

Sesame Street Kids' Weekends

Now - May 21, 2023 (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday's)

Join Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadaby, Big Bird and all of your favorite Sesame Street friends for fun-filled themed weekends every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from April 28 - May 21.

You’re invited to a celebration of friendship and fun at Busch Gardens! Kids and parents alike can join their favorite furry friends at the Sesame Street Safari of Fun for storytime, interactive dance parties, arts & crafts, and much more. Families can enjoy new limited-time activities and themes each weekend of the event, all included with park admission.

Cinco de Mayo

Friday, May 7 - Sunday, May 9, 2023

Turn up the flavor! Cinco de Mayo returns to Busch Gardens, get ready to experience iconic Latin dishes and live música from award-winning Latin artists.

The festival kicks off this Friday with THREE concerts throughout the entire weekend, with The Como la Flor Band: A Tribute to Selena Quintanilla, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, and Celia Vive!

The Como La Flor Band is one of the most respected Selena tribute bands in the nation.

Celia Vive! Is a unique and unforgettable presentation, where “Lucrecia” pays tribute to the “Queen of Salsa,” Celia Cruz.

Gran Combo is an Award-winning Puerto Rican salsa orchestra.

Viva La Música!

May 12 - May 21, 2023 (Friday, Saturday, and Sundays)

For this Latin fiesta, guests can expect a complete transformation of the festival area and enjoy authentic Latin cuisine and entertainment.

Viva La Música celebrate the diverse Latino heritage and culture with the authentic flavors and rhythms of South American and Caribbean countries.

Toño Rosario

Saturday, May 13, 2023

The one-time leader of the merengue band, Los Hermanos Rosario, Toño Rosario began a successful solo career in 1990.

Grupo Niche

Sunday, May 14, 2023

Grupo Niche is an existing Colombian salsa orchestra formed in 1980, recognized by critics and public alike, as the most successful in Latin America for the last three decades

Elvis Crespo

Saturday, May 20, 2023

Elvis Crespo is the only Latin artist whose music has been played literally in outer space.

Luisito Ayala y la Puerto Rican Power

Sunday, May 21, 2023

Tropical orchestra Puerto Rican Power was formed by bassist Jesús Castro in the early '70s, soon granting its leadership to trumpet player Luisito Ayala.

Guy Harvey Weekend

Friday, May 26 - Saturday, May 27, 2023

Throughout the weekend, fans will enjoy the opportunity to meet Dr. Guy Harvey and purchase new merchandise.

Meet Guy Harvey and learn about his dedication to conservation and his passion for marine wildlife.

Purchase Guy Harvey paintings and merchandise for him to sign at the Xcursions gift shop. Autographs & photos will be available at select times throughout the day and are included with park admission.

Pin Trading Weekend

Sunday, May 28, 2023

Trade and explore new and rare pins during a special pin trading event.

For each pin purchased, you’ll have the opportunity to play a game, and then trade from one of the pin trading boards with expansive collections.

Summer Nights

May 26 - August 6, 2023

Stay Longer. Play Later!

Celebrate all summer long with extended park hours, all-new entertainment and fireworks on select nights. More details soon.

Ride & Attraction Schedule Updates

The following areas and attractions are temporarily closed:

Falcon's Fury (Now - May 9) Skyride Upcoming closures for scheduled maintenance Grand Caravan Carousel (May 8 - 19)

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