Food, The Frugalista Life

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival returns with globally-inspired menu

by Alexandria Ebron

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival offers guests a unique experience this year from areas around the world. The highly anticipated festival begins March 10-May 21 not only with an elevated menu at 20 food and drink cabins but the opportunity to enjoy live performances from some of the most popular artists.

The best way to experience all the flavors of the Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Food & Wine Festival is with a Food & Wine Sampler Lanyard starting at $70. The lanyard is redeemable at numerous cabins throughout the park and are available in quantities of 10 or 15. An exclusive 18-item sampler (available at the same price as a 15-item sampler) is an option for all Pass Members. Guests must be 21+ to drink any of the alcoholic drinks.

Globally-Inspired Menu

Attendees can explore the culinary offerings with 39 wine pairings, a list of beers, bourbon tastings, and more:

  • Trek Through Africa Cabin – African Vegetable Curry & Naan Bread (Vegetarian)
  • Twisted Egg Rolls Cabin – Buffalo Chicken Egg Roll with Ranch Dipping Sauce
  • Moroccan Market Cabin – Berbere Spiced Chicken Batbout
  • Greek Isles Cabin – Lamb Lollipop with Mint Demi-Glaze (Gluten Free)
  • European Delight Cabin – Mushroom Ravioli with Truffle Cream Sauce (Vegetarian)
  • Asian Inspired Cabin – Spicy Pork Belly with Mandarin Orange Soy Glaze (Gluten Free)
  • Springs Taproom Bar & Lounge – Traditional Tuna Poke
  • Cocktails & Beer Cabin – Spicy Watermelon Margarita Craft Cocktail
  • Xcursions Gift Shop – Signature Coaster Cupcake 4-Pack
  • Latin Twist Cabin – Piña Colada Trifle

Headlining Concerts:

23 headlining acts across genres take the Festival Field Stage. View showtimes, get reserved seating, and VIP packages here. All concert performances are included with park admission:

  • Kansas – March 11
  • +LIVE+ – April 8
  • Maddie & Tae – March 12
  • The Fab Four – April 9
  • SWV – March 18
  • 38 Special – April 15
  • Dustin Lynch – March 19
  • Mitchell Tenpenny – April 16
  • Rodney Atkins – March 25
  • Air Supply – April 22
  • Flo Rida – March 26
  • Gabby Barrett – April 23
  • Jeremy Camp – April 1
  • Hoobastank – April 29
  • MacKenzie Porter – April 2
  • WALK THE MOON – April 30

A Celebration with Latin Flare for Cinco de Mayo and Viva la Música

Guests can expect a different look for the festival and enjoy authentic iconic Latin foods from Mexico, South America, and the Caribbean plus entertainment from award-winning artists. Cinco de Mayo and Viva la Música occurs every Saturday and Sunday May 5-21 and are included in daily park admission, Annual Pass, and Fun Cards.

The full lineup:

  • The Como La Flor Band – May 5
  • Celia Vive – A Tribute to Celia Cruz – May 6
  • El Gran Combo – May 7
  • Toño Rosario – May 13
  • Grupo Niche – May 14
  • Elvis Crespo – May 20  
  • Luisito Ayala y la Puerto Rican Power – May 21

Photo c/o Busch Gardens