Footlights

The Greater Tampa Area is home to a thriving performing arts community that stages world class theater, dance and concert productions. Please confirm details with event organizers or venues in case of changes or cancellations.

MONTHLY

First Thursday
Rock the Park
Tampa: This free monthly entertainment series stages live music from all genres. Showtime: 6:30 pm at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 600 N Ashley Dr. Info: facebook.com/rockthepark.

First Friday
Free Fridays Concert Series
Gainesville: Chill out to the sounds of local and regional musicians performing classic Rock, Reggae, R&B, Soul, SKA, Funk, Blues and more. Takes place under the stars from 7 – 9 pm at 111 E University Ave. Info: bodiddleyplaza.com.

First Friday
Music on Main
Lakewood Ranch: Kick off the weekend with live music, food and drinks during this block party-style event that also includes kids’ activities and more. Proceeds benefit local non-profit organizations. Takes place from 6 – 9 pm at 8100 Lakewood Main St. Info: 800-307-2624; lakewoodranch.com.

SPECIAL EVENTS

January 28 – February 15
Some Enchanted Evening;
The Songs of Rodgers and Hammerstein
Gainesville: Kick off 2026 with romance, passion and a glorious parade of genuine
hits from the golden age of Broadway including Sound of Music, Oklahoma, The King and I, Carousel, Flower Drum Song and more. Various times. Takes place at the Hippodrome Theater, 25 SE 2nd Place. Info: 352-375-4477; the hipp.org.

February 13
Rascal Flatts: Life Is A Highway Tour
Tampa: After 20 years of making music, this regaled American country music band has no shortage of hits and this tour is packed with their best sing-alongs. Showtime: 7 pm at Benchmark International Arena (formerly Amalie Arena) 401 Channelside Dr. Info: 813-301-6500; benchmarkintlarena.com.

February 14
The Envelope Please
Tampa: Get awards-season ready as the world-class musicians of The Florida Orchestra honor past and present Oscar nominees and winners of Best Picture and Best Score. The concert includes selections from Black Panther, E.T., Titanic, Lord of the Rings, The Godfather and more. Showtimes: 2 pm an 7 pm at The Mahaffey Theater, 400 First St. Info & tickets: 727-892-3331; floridaorchestra.org.

February 21
Fantasia and Anthony Hamilton
Tampa: Renowned for her dynamic gospel-rooted voice, Grammy Award winner, Fantasia, performs her unique “rock soul” style in concert with the highly acclaimed Anthony Hamilton, and his rugged yet graceful R&B. Showtime: 8 pm at Benchmark International Arena (formerly Amalie Arena) 401 Channelside Dr. Info: 813-301-6500; benchmarkintlarena.com.

March 4 – 22
The Accomplice
Gainesville: Nothing is what it seems in Ruport Holmes’ witty cocktail of a thriller. Author of The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Curtains, and the iconic Piña Colada song, Holmes’ captivating whodunnit is sexy, suspenseful, delicious, and breathless. Various times. Takes place at the Hippodrome Theater, 25 SE 2nd Place. Info: 352-375-4477; the hipp.org.