This Week in Tampa Bay: The Valspar, 98ROCKFEST, and the First Day of Spring (March 18–24)

This Week in Tampa Bay: The Valspar, 98ROCKFEST, and the First Day of Spring (March 18–24)

St. Patrick's Day is in the rearview, but Tampa Bay isn't slowing down. This week brings pro golf, rock concerts, free Italian ice, and enough weekend markets to fill your trunk with local produce. Here's what's worth your time.

Valspar Championship (Through March 22)

The PGA TOUR's most colorful tournament is in full swing at Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor. The Valspar Championship runs through Sunday, bringing the world's top golfers to the Copperhead Course. Even if golf isn't your thing, the grounds have food vendors, live music, and a festival atmosphere that makes it worth the trip. Tickets and info at valspar championship.com.

98ROCKFEST (Friday, March 20)

If rock is more your speed, 98ROCKFEST takes over The BayCare Sound on Friday night. The lineup features Three Days Grace, I Prevail, Sleep Theory, Funeral Portrait, and The Pretty Wild — a stacked card of hard rock and metal. Tickets start at $70.

Busch Gardens Food, Wine & Garden Festival (Weekends)

Busch Gardens' annual Food, Wine & Garden Festival continues every weekend through spring. Sip and savor your way through specialty food booths, craft cocktails, and live entertainment — all included with park admission (food and drinks are extra). It's one of the better food festivals in the area, and you get roller coasters as a bonus.

Rita's Free Italian Ice — First Day of Spring (Friday, March 20)

Friday is the first official day of spring, and Rita's Italian Ice celebrates the way they have for over 25 years: free Italian ice for everyone. No catch, no purchase necessary. Just show up and grab a cup. It's a nice excuse to get out and enjoy the weather.

The Jive Aces at St. Pete Coliseum (Thursday, March 19)

The Jive Aces bring their high-energy swing and jive show to the St. Petersburg Coliseum on Thursday night. If you've seen them on Britain's Got Talent, you know the energy. If you haven't, think big band meets rockabilly meets pure showmanship. Doors at 7:30 PM.

Saturday Morning Market (Saturday, March 21)

St. Pete's Saturday Morning Market is back every week at Al Lang Stadium from 9 AM to 2 PM, rain or shine. Fresh produce, local food vendors, coffee, crafts, live music — it's the best free thing to do on a Saturday morning in downtown St. Pete. Get there early for the best selection.

Safety Harbor Library Book Sale (March 20–21)

The Friends of the Safety Harbor Library are hosting their March book sale this Friday and Saturday. Most items are just $2, and all proceeds go to library programs. If you're a reader (or just like a bargain), it's worth the stop.

Dunedin Market (Friday & Saturday)

Dunedin's weekly market keeps rolling with 50+ local vendors, fresh produce, handmade goods, food, and live music in downtown Dunedin. It's dog-friendly, family-friendly, and free to browse. A solid Friday evening or Saturday afternoon outing.

NCAA March Madness Watch Parties

It's tournament time. If you're filling out brackets and need a place to watch, most sports bars across Tampa Bay will have the games on all weekend. The Riverwalk area in Tampa typically has watch parties and events tied to the tournament — check local listings for specifics.

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The Bottom Line

Between the Valspar wrapping up, 98ROCKFEST on Friday, and the first day of spring, this is a packed week. And if none of that's your speed, the farmers markets and food festivals are always a safe bet.

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