5 Reasons to Skip Dry January in Tampa, Florida
Every new year, millions of people decide to take a step back from alcohol for a month in January. I’ll admit, I have been one of those people, and I think it’s a great idea to hit reset on your liver once in a while. That being said, if you live in the Tampa Bay area, you may want to reconsider or push it back to later this year once you hear about all the exciting upcoming events this January.
Friday-Sunday, January 13-15
You can’t live in Florida and not like seafood. Okay, you can, but you shouldn’t! Especially when there are festivals like this one held in Madeira Beach annually. Sponsored by Budlight and Tito’s, you can be sure the drinks will be flowing as you taste some fresh Gulf of Mexico seafood and check out the arts and crafts show and the multitude of vendors.
Saturday & Sunday, January 14,15
Vinoy park is easily one of the most beautiful places to take a walk in St. Pete, so why not attend a BBQ & Bacon Festival while you enjoy the views? Bop to some live music while you sip on craft brews, taste some delicious BBQ, and take in the stunning surroundings. You can upgrade to “Boss Hog” admission for private bars, tents, and free liquor and cocktail samples. Sounds like the perfect weekend to me. Won’t be in Tampa? This unique festival is traveling up the East Coast to Atlanta, Wilmington, Timonium, Charlotte, and more cities through August.
Tampa Bay Bridge
Seminole Hard Rock Pool Party with John Summit
Sunday, January 15
The first pool party of the year with an iconic DJ headliner!? I don’t know about you, but I’m picturing a cold glass of rose or a refreshing mojito poolside while grooving to some great music and getting a tan.
Buccs vs Cowboys NFL Playoffs Monday Night Football at Raymond James Stadium
Monday, January 16
Tom Brady has done it again! The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made it to the playoffs and are set to take on the Dallas Cowboys this Monday night at our very own Raymond James Stadium. Even if you’re not attending, you can wear your best Buccs gear and head to the tailgate outside the stadium before watching at a nearby bar like Winghouse or Riveters. If you’re lucky enough to grab a ticket, head to the pirate ship for a giant frozen cocktail, or the Altos Tequila stand for a quality margarita while you try for some beads thrown off the ship. You won’t be disappointed! Go Buccs!
Friday, January 20
If you know what Frist Friday is in downtown St. Pete, then you should get acquainted with Third Friday in downtown Safety Harbor. It’s a similar concept, but with the cute Florida golf cart town vibes. Main Street is blocked off from cars from 5-10 pm so that locals and tourists can drink in the street, buy from local vendors, hit food trucks, and of course- catch a variety of live bands. It’s a really really good time that you don’t want to miss! Pro tip: Head to The Nona Slice House for the best pizza in Tampa Bay before making your way into town and sip on one of their delicious specialty cocktails!
White sandy beach in Florida
I guess it’s a little harder to skip on the booze in Florida when the sun is shining, the waves are crashing, and there are so many fun events going on. Snowbirds seem to have the right idea of moving here for the winter. Even if there isn’t an event going on, you can guarantee someone is hosting their own pool party, yacht party, or dinner party. If you're wondering where your party invite is, maybe it’s a sign you should host one! Add some class and impress guests by having some specialty cocktails like this twist on the Aperol Spritz and hiring bartenders to come to your home so you can relax and enjoy yourself. Not this year, dry January! It's Aperol spritz o'clock!
