Busch Gardens Tampa
2026-08-01
Events
Summer Nights
Nightly entertainment celebration included with park admission. Fireworks themed around America's 250th Anniversary run May 22–July 5; a summertime drone show runs July 13–August 9. Recurring highlights include the Boom Box Dance Party in Stanleyville and Beach Bash in Gwazi Plaza.
More infoBier Fest Brews & BBQ
Summer festival at Busch Gardens Tampa featuring seasonal craft beers, beer-inspired food, and BBQ offerings. Runs on select weekends from July 25 through Labor Day weekend (September 7). Included with park admission.
More infoKumba Farewell Weekend -- Final Rides
Busch Gardens Tampa announced July 14, 2026 that Kumba, its steel coaster operating since 1993, will permanently close after 33 years. Annual Pass Members receive exclusive ride time August 1 from 8:00-11:00 AM; the coaster then welcomes all guests through Sunday, August 2, 2026 -- its final day of operation. A new coaster, "Kumba's Revenge," is planned as part of a $100 million park investment; no opening date has been announced.
08:00
More infoSaturday at Busch Gardens Tampa, in peak Florida summer, with schools still out across every major feeder district. Kumba's Farewell Weekend — the 33-year coaster's final rides before permanent closure draw one of the summer's biggest crowds. Forecast: Showers and thunderstorms likely, high 91F, 60% rain chance.
What Actually Happened
Actual crowd score: 10 · We predicted 10
Discount Tickets
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What to Pack
Wide Brim Sun Protection Foldable Bucket Hat with Ponytail Hole
Finally — a sun hat designed for people who actually have hair up. The ponytail slot means it stays on and covers your neck without fighting your bun.
$14.99
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Sawyer Products SP544 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, Pump Spray
20% Picaridin is as effective as DEET but gentler on skin, fabric, and gear — no melting your sunglasses. Florida mosquitoes are relentless from May through October; don't skip this.
$10.99
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Stasher Silicone Reusable Storage Bag, Snack Bag
Reusable silicone bag that keeps snacks fresh, leak-free, and doesn't add plastic to park trash cans. Packs flat in any bag — bring fruit, crackers, or goldfish from the hotel instead of paying $8 for a snack cart bag.
$17.98
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Sukeen Cooling Sports Headbands 4-Pack Moisture Wicking
Instant-cooling, moisture-wicking headbands that keep sweat out of your eyes during a hot Florida park day. The 4-pack means everyone in the group can grab one.
$9.99
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YETI Yonder Water Bottle Lightweight Leakproof
Lightweight and genuinely leakproof — toss it in your bag without worrying about soggy snacks. Stays cold long enough to matter on a Florida afternoon.
$30.00
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Sting Relief Pads Bug Bite Itch Relief with Benzocaine
Florida mosquitoes are aggressive year-round. These benzocaine pads stop the itch immediately — individually wrapped so you can toss a few in any bag pocket.
$14.95
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