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East of Tampa / The Newsletter

Race Cars + Boats + A Big Riverview Surprise

Friday issue · Friday, February 27, 2026 · By John Plumstead

Race Cars + Boats + A Big Riverview Surprise

🀝 Local business owner?
East of Tampa is growing fast. We’re opening a few sponsor spots for businesses that want to reach local families and homeowners.

Good morning neighbors.

On Tuesday I wrote about why we chose to build our life East of Tampa. Today I’m focused on the people and businesses building it with us.

A strong local community includes strong local businesses. That’s what makes this work.

So we’re highlighting 100 local businesses in 100 days, completely free.
Reply with one we should feature.

In today’s Buzz:
🚀 Tampa boat show
🀿 Swim lessons
πŸŽͺ Stay busy with these events
🚌 Important school dates
β˜•οΈ Another coffee spot

🚀 Tampa Bay Boat Show | Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Center | Tampa | Mar 6-8 | More
Explore the latest boats, marine gear, and water sports equipment all in one place. Tour vessels, meet experts, and take advantage of exclusive show deals. Perfect for both serious buyers and families looking for a fun weekend.

Busy business owner or stretched too thin?
Bravo Global Staffing places vetted virtual assistants so you can reclaim your time.

See how it works. πŸ‘‡

Book Consultation

Ribbon Cutting: Swim Life (Grand Reopening)

5711 Hawkpark Blvd β€” Lithia

Swim Coach Natalee will host a Grand Reopening Ribbon Cutting on Saturday, March 7 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM to celebrate upgrades to their pool space, including a new non-slip pool deck. The event is open to past, current, and future students, with families welcome to stop by, tour the space, and enjoy light refreshments.

Go welcome them back and let them know we sent you πŸ‘‰ More

🏁 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg | Downtown St. Petersburg | St. Pete | Feb 27–Mar 1 | More
One of Florida’s premier racing events as IndyCar takes over downtown St. Petersburg with waterfront racing, fan experiences, and entertainment.

🏘️ Hillsborough County Neighborhoods Expo | Feeding Tampa Bay | Tampa | Feb 28 | More
Community expo connecting residents with local services, housing resources, and county programs.

🎨 Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts | Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park | Tampa | Feb 28–Mar 1 | More
Nationally recognized art festival featuring artists, live entertainment, food vendors, and family activities along the riverfront.

πŸ₯ƒ Bourbon and BBQ Festival | Tampa Bay Downs | Tampa | Feb 28 | More
Enjoy craft bourbon tastings, BBQ vendors, live music, and outdoor entertainment.

πŸ“ Florida Strawberry Festival | Strawberry Festival Grounds | Plant City | Mar 1 | More
One of the region’s largest annual festivals with rides, food, concerts, and family entertainment.

πŸ›οΈ FishHawk Ranch Market Day | Park Square | FishHawk | Mar 1 | More
Local vendors, handmade goods, fresh food, and community gathering in the heart of FishHawk Ranch.

🀝 Junior League Prospective Member Pop-Up | Junior League Pop-Up Location | Brandon | Mar 1 | More
Meet members, learn about volunteer opportunities, and connect with local leaders.

🚀 Tampa Bay Boat Show | Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Center | Tampa | Mar 6 | More
Large showcase of boats, marine gear, and accessories for boating enthusiasts.

🏊 Ribbon Cutting: Swim Life | Swim Life | Lithia | Mar 7 | More
Grand opening celebration welcoming a new swim training and aquatic facility to the community.

πŸ‘¨β€πŸ‘©β€πŸ‘§ Dover Family Fun Day | Keith Waller Park | Dover | Mar 7 | More
Family-friendly event featuring games, activities, and community fun.

πŸ“ Pickleball Tournament | Balm Park & Recreation Center | Wimauma | Mar 7 | More
Competitive and recreational pickleball tournament open to players and spectators.

🎯 Community Bingo | Brandon Recreation Center | Brandon | Mar 7 | More
Classic bingo event open to residents looking for a fun afternoon activity.

πŸ“ Strawberry Festival Day: Mar 2
🏝️ Spring Break: Mar 16–20
πŸ“š No School: April 3, 2026
✏️No School: May 25, 2026
πŸŽ“ Last Day of School: May 29
School Calendar

πŸ—οΈ Dutch Bros Coffee Coming to Gibsonton Drive

Gibsonton Dr β€” Riverview

Dutch Bros Coffee is preparing to open a new location along Gibston Road, adding another national brand to one of the fastest-growing commercial corridors in Hillsborough County.

The Riverview site is currently under development, with permits and construction activity signaling continued retail investment in the area. Once complete, the location will serve residents across Riverview, FishHawk, and Apollo Beach, where population growth has accelerated demand for new dining and service options.

As more families move into the surrounding communities, national and regional brands continue to target East of Tampa for future expansion. More

If you’re buying, selling, or just keeping an eye on the East of Tampa real estate market, check out our friends over at The Red Sash Group. More

Thanks for reading East of Tampa Buzz.

Have a great weekend.

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