Busch Gardens Howl o Scream 2019

My favorite time of year is here! Both my husband and I are obsessed with everything Halloween. This will be our 9th Halloween in Tampa and as always, we are excited for Busch Gardens Howl-o-Scream to kick off the season on Friday night! Be sure to follow along with my instagram stories as I will be sharing live videos and photos all night instagram.com/irun4wine.  Howl-o-Scream will take place on 22 select nights, from September 20-November 2. Ahead of our visit, I wanted to share what you can expect at the 2019 Busch Gardens Howl-o-Scream, ticket options and all the upgrades to enhance your experience.

But first - let's talk about Death Water Bayou. Five years ago we had a destination wedding in New Orleans. Gabe proposed to me in 2013, which happened to be the inaugural year for Death Water Bayou, a haunted house based in the swamps of New Orleans, haunted by the Voodoo Queen. All throughout the house were nods to the Big Easy. I did what any Halloween obsessed blogger who was about to get married in NOLA would would naturally do - pitched them for a Haunted House engagement shoot. You can check out the Halloween Engagement Shoot here. It was one of the coolest photo shoots I have done and will always be grateful that Busch Gardens gave us those memories. I am excited to say that Death Water Bayou is returning this year.

DEATH WATER BAYOU: WRATH OF THE QUEEN
VOODOO MAGIC HAS RETURNED THE QUEEN TO HER SWAMP - DESCEND INTO THE SWAMPS IF YOU DARE...
Just when you thought she was gone for good, the Queen of the Shadows has been lifted from the dead by Voodoo’s dark magic and is seeking revenge upon the living. Armed with her devilish devotees, all who dare to enter the swamp are subject to curses around every corner.

THE RESIDENCE
NOT ALL IS THAT IT APPEARS TO BE - DISCOVER THE DOMESTIC DEMONS WITHIN THIS SUBURBAN HOME
Enter the pristine home of the picture perfect suburban Clark Family, but beware of unseen horrors – once you’re invited in, you may never make your way out. Don’t let yourself become the next sacrifice in their sinister devotion.

INSOMNIA - PATIENTS' REVENGE
PATIENTS AND DOCTORS CLASH - EVERY DOOR IN THIS HAUNTED ASYLUM LEADS TO YOUR WORST NIGHTMARE
Years of cruel treatments at this sleep institute have warped the minds of the tortured and imprisoned patients. Now rising against the demented doctors, the inmates have taken over the ward to seek sick revenge to torture their evil caretakers.

MOTEL HELL: INFESTATION
ESCAPE FROM THE TORMENTED MOTEL - THE EXTERMINATOR HAS TURNED HIS NOXIOUS ATTACKS ON YOU
Hordes of oozing, wriggling insects have infested Motel Shellburn and the exterminator is determined to extinguish all signs of life, including the guests. Every room in this motel from hell brings new skin-crawling horrors as you try to escape his noxious attacks and check out alive.

THE BLACK SPOT: BLOODSHED
ESCAPE FROM SAW TOOTH SILAS’S MURDEROUS HIDEAWAY - AN INFAMOUS PIRATE HAS YOU MARKED FOR DEATH AND HE HAS YOU RIGHT WHERE HE WANTS YOU
Dare to enter the underbelly of Captain Saw-Tooth Silas’ pirate ship. Try not to fall victim to what this macabre labyrinth has in store for you, the trick lies within the dimly lit corners of this mysterious hideaway- holding the secret to escape… or demise.

SIMON'S SLAUGHTER HOUSE
TRY TO MAKE IT THROUGH SIMON'S HORROR-FILLED HOUSE - STEPPING INTO SIMON’S HOUSE LEADS TO A GRUESOME GAME OF SLAUGHTER
Watch where you step in Simon’s house, as every twisted turn corrals you from one sickening scene to the next. Don’t get caged in or you might be the next one up on Simon’s butcher block.

TICKETS AND UPGRADES
One thing I will suggest, if you are going to Busch Gardens Howl-o-Scream, invest in one of the front of the line upgrades. This will allow you to get the most of your experience, able to enjoy all the houses and rides you want. You can select from a variety of different options - everything from one time haunted houses to unlimited front of the line for the entire season. Plus this year, Busch Gardens is offering an unlimited admission ticket giving you access for all 22 nights! This is huge if you are looking to go more than once this year. Details and pricing are below!

HOWL-O-SCREAM 2019 SINGLE-NIGHT TICKET starting at $39.99
Brave 1 visit to Howl-O-Scream 2019, select nights Sept. 20 - Nov. 2, 2019 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Buy your tickets now and lock in your price.

HOWL-O-SCREAM 2019 UNLIMITED ADMISSION TICKET $79.99
Valid for unlimited visits to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Howl-O-Scream 2019 for one consecutive weekend (Thursday – Sunday) Scream your way through all 22 nights of Howl-O-Scream, select dates Sept. 20 - Nov. 2, 2019 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

HOWL-O-SCREAM 2019 WILD & WICKED WEEKEND TICKET $109.99
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream Wild and Wicked Weekend Tickets
Enjoy a weekend full of visits to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay during the day and Howl-O-Scream at night, weekends Sept. 20-Nov. 2, 2019.

FRONT OF LINE FEAR PASS starting at $35
Skip the Lines with Front Line Fear during Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Why wait! Get front-of-the-line access to 6 haunted houses of your choice.

FRONT LINE FEAR EXTREME starting at $45
Skip the Lines with Front Line Fear Extreme during Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Enjoy front-of-the-line access at 6 haunted houses and 7 major thrill rides of your choice.

ALL HOWL-O-SCREAM FRONT LINE FEAR UPGRADE starting at $149.99
Why wait! Get front-of-the-line access to all haunted houses and thrill rides of your choice for all 22 nights. Howl-O-Scream admission is required but not included.

SCARE ZONES
There are 9 scare zones this year at Howl-O-Scream. Included in the scare zone is First Fear, all of the horrors of the last 20 years of Busch Gardens.

FIRST FEAR: The horrors of Howl-O-Scream’s haunted past are the first frights to greet you, rising from the dead and bringing 20 years of fear back to life.
LITTLE NIGHTMARES: Take a creepy walk down memory lane to the bygone era of papier-mâché masks and homemade costumes sure to stir up the nightmares of your childhood.
CARPE NOCTEM: The eerie quiet of this gothic Romanian cemetery is shattered by the triumphant screams of vampires and the sobbing moans of their victims. Climb into a coffin but your photo may be all that comes out.
CAMP DOA: Rising from the murky swamp waters, murderous mutants have taken over a seemingly peaceful campground. Campers are snatched from their idyllic dreams to become ghostly stars of living nightmares.
HELL ON WHEELS: In a post-apocalypse world, the surly survivors will stop at nothing for food and supplies, destroying all who stand in their way. Can you run the gauntlet of a murderous crazed biker gang to make it out alive?
DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS: Honoring the souls and spirits of those who have gone before us, guests can dance the night away in this festive zone; featuring face painters, traditional tastes of Mexico, spectacle of performers, and a one-of-a-kind photo with an icon of La Catrina.
MANIAC MIDWAY: Go backstage at “scariest show on earth” with Sparky and his terrifying carnie-crew as they take over Pantopia and make the midway their own stage of torture creating a frenzy of fear.
DEADLY TOYS: You can run but you cannot hide as giant toys spring to life in a murderous rampage with you in their sights. Childhood memories will be destroyed when these toys turn a play date into a slay date.
MEAT MARKET: Howl-O-Scream’s most fear-inducing zone places you in the center of a nauseating assault by cannibal creatures gorging on their monster menu of human hors d'oeuvres.

FOOD, DRINKS, AND HAPPY HOUR!
As much as I love Halloween, I am a big baby. I am petrified of clowns and I cannot go to any haunting event without having liquid courage. There are tons of bars within Howl-o-Scream and below is where you can find cocktails, beers, wine, shot girls, and more. Be sure to visit Serengeti Overlook Pub between 5:00 – 7:30 p.m. for pre-event / Happy Hour drink specials!
Carnibar in Pantopia
Dragon Fire Grill Entrance
Serengeti Overlook Pub
Stanleyville
Meat Market Bar
Nairobi Walkway

FRIGHT FEAST starting at $29.99
Devour monstrous main courses and desserts at this delicious dinner. Then, be the first to brave the dark with a half-hour of early access to the haunted houses and front-of-the-line privileges until 8:30 p.m.

FRIGHT FEAST & BEVERAGE PACKAGE starting at $49.99
Enjoy all the exclusive benefits of Fright Feast mentioned above, plus the choice of any three beverages throughout the night including beer, wine, cocktails, soda and water.

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The Play That Goes Wrong - Straz Center Tampa

When we were in NYC two weeks ago, we attended our first Broadway on Broadway show. We came away with a new found appreciation for Straz Center. We've always been impressed by the amazing shows Straz brings in every year but I had no idea how vast in size Carol Morsani Hall is! While in NYC, we attempted to get tickets for a show called The Play That Goes Wrong, which was co-produced by J.J. Abrams. I'm a huge fan of everything J.J. has done. New York didn't work out for us but this show happened to be coming to Straz as part of their Broadway in Tampa series and we had an opportunity to see it!

The Play That Goes Wrong is far different than any show we have ever seen. The best way I can explain it is that it is two shows in one. The cast is trying to put on a show and everything goes wrong, but they have to stay in their "actor" character.

Prior to the show starting, we had quite a surprise by one of the actors jumping up on the set of seats directly in front of me, screaming at one of the technicians. Everyone was in full character and we knew then, we were in for a show.

Before the show began, the stage was full of people trying to repair the set. Things kept breaking and before you knew it, the show had already started. Then we realized one of the balconies was lit up and had a set of it's own - it belonged to the AV tech, which was part of the show.

The story is a classic "who dunnit", a Murder at Haversham Manor. From start to finish, things went from bad to disaster and the entire night was full chaos and mishaps.

This show has received rave reviews. The New York Times called it a “a gut-busting hit”, The Daily Beast called it “a riotous explosion of comedy”, and HuffPost called it “the funniest play Broadway has ever seen”. I laughed so hard during this show, my abs hurt the next day.

Expect things like an AV guy who messes up constantly through the night, the leading lady goes unconscious multiple times and has to have tech's jump in to cover her, a dead body who refuses to stay still, sets that break through the night, and total chaos from the second you take your seat.

It was a fun night out and we enjoyed seeing this show! Showtimes are running through Sunday, October 21st.

Click here to buy tickets for The Play That Goes Wrong
Wednesday, October 17, , 2018 | 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 18, 2018 | 7:30 p.m.
Friday, October 19, 2018 | 8 p.m.
Saturday, October 20, 2018 | 2 p.m.
Saturday, October 20, 2018 | 8 p.m.
Sunday, October 21, 2018 | 2 p.m.
Sunday, October 21, 2018 | 7:30 p.m.

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Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival Review 2018

Food, Wine, Concerts, exciting rides and animals can only mean one thing. Busch Garden's Food and Wine Festival is back! On the weekends through April 29,you can take advantage to see some of the biggest acts in musical entertainment while enjoying delicious food, craft brews, a large selection of wine and cocktails!

The best part about it, your admission covers concerts and this is a valid event with any annual pass, fun card or daily admission. A few weeks ago, Gabe and I had the opportunity to check out this years Food and Wine Festival. Busch Garden's festival gets better year after year. I was very impressed with this years selection of food and drink. They had quite a few options for dietary restrictions which was great to see. We had a fantastic time and hope to get back again this year.

I strongly suggest getting one of the food samplers if you go. You can use these to select any food or drink at the festival. It's much easier than pulling out a credit card or cash at each food cabin and you have a choice between a variety of levels. If there is a concert you want to sea, one of the VIP Concert Seating options is the way to go!
5 item sampler: $29.99
10 item sampler: $39.99
12 item sampler: $59.99
VIP Concert Seating level 1 + 5 item sampler: $44.99
VIP Concert Seating level 2 + 5 item sampler: $34.99

FOOD CABINS

ARTISAN EATS

Duck Fat Truffle Fries

Pupusas with Curdito & Grilled Shrimp
Smoked Trout, Watermelon Radish Charred Herbs Vinaigrette (GF)
Duck Fat Truffle Fries with Parmesan Truffle Aioli (GF)
Wine: Fleur De Mer, Rose
Beer: Founders Brewing Co., All Day IPA 4.7% ABV, IBU 42

COOKING WITH COKE PAVILION

Orange Fanta Whoopie Pie

Orange Fanta Whoopie Pie (VEG)
Pulled Pork Slider with Cherry Coke BBQ Sauce
Baked Brie with Strawberry Fanta Coulis (VEG)
Wine: William Hill Estate Winery, Pinot Noir
Beer: Pair O' Dice Brewing Co., Lucky Lucy Strawberry Blonde 5.5% ABV, IBU 15

COKE FUSION

Minute Maid Apple Glazed Pork Belly

Boiled Peanut Hummus with Coke® Drizzle (V)
Minute Maid Apple Glazed Pork Belly with Kimchee Slaw
Coke® Infused Chocolate Cupcake Topped with Pop Rocks (VEG)
Wine: Michael David Winery, Freakshow Red Blend
Beer: Tampa Bay Brewing Co., Reef Donkey APA 5.5% ABV, IBU 36

FIELD HOUSE EATERY

Grilled Lamb Chops

Char Sui Duck Steam Bun
Habanero-Infused Baklava with Fresh Pomegranate (V)
Grilled Lamb Chops with Tabouleh & Tzatziki (GF)
Wine: Josh Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon Craftsman 14
Beer: Motorworks Brewing, Intellectual Property Ale IPA 6.9% ABV, IBU 85
Frozen Cocktails: Mojito, Red Sangria

GOURMET LODGE

Beef Brisket on Spiced Corn Waffle

Mango Shrimp Ceviche with Sweet and Spicy Marinade (GF)
Beef Brisket on a Spiced Corn Waffle with Amberbock BBQ Sauce
Griddled Cheese Cake Sandwich with Raspberry Drizzle (VEG)
Wine: Trapiche, Oak Cask Malbec
Beer: New Belgium, Fat Tire Belgium White Ale 5.2% ABV IBU

SAVORY TAVERN

Fried Frog Legs - Photo Rights: Busch Gardens

Guava Empanada (VEG)
Shrimp Po Boy
Fried Frog Legs with Bacon Corn Fritters & Cajun Remoulade
Wine: Pacific Rim, Riesling "J"
Beer: Motorworks Brewing, Pulp Friction Grapefruit IPA 6.3% ABV, IBU 85

CHEF'S PLANTATION

Gochujang Ribs - Photo Rights: Busch Gardens

Short Rib & Brie Grilled Cheese on House-Made Brioche
Salmon Cake with Lemon Aioli
Gochujang Ribs in Korean BBQ Sauce
Wine: Lobetia, Rose
Beer Funky Buddha Brewery, Pineapple Beach Blonde 5% ABV, 20 IBU

COAST-TO-COAST COOKERY

Cauliflower Cake

Cauliflower Cake with Sriracha Aioli (V)
Pan-Seared Steak with Chimichurri & Roasted Poblano Hash (GF)
Flourless Chocolate Torte with Raspberry Sauce (VEG) Wine: SAVED, Red Blend
Beer: Swamp Head Brewery, Wild Night Honey Cream Ale 5% ABV, IBU 21
Frozen Cocktails: Blue Lemonade, Watermelon Frosé

SOUTHERN STATION

Bananas Foster Panna Cotta - Photo Rights: Busch Gardens

Venison Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes, Fresh English Peas, and Blackberry Demi-Glace
Bison Slider on a Poppy Seed Roll with Bacon and Sriracha Ketchup
Bananas Foster Panna Cotta with Caramel Popcorn
Wine: Alexander Valley, Merlot
Beer: Founders Brewing Co., Solid Gold Lager 4.4% ABV, IBU 20
Frozen Cocktails: Blue Lemonade, Watermelon Frosé

COMFORT KITCHEN

Tostones Rellenos - Photo Rights: Busch Gardens

Tostones Rellenos de Pollo Fried Plantain Cups filled with Stewed Chicken
Cabernet Wine-Filled Chocolate Truffles (GF, V, VEG)
Bacon Mac & Cheese
Wine: Terrazas de los Andes, Malbec
Beer: 3 Daughters Brewing, Beach Blonde Ale 5% ABV, IBU 24

LIGHT FARE CANTEEN

Antipasti - Photo Rights: Busch Gardens

Antipasti of Roasted Tomatoes, Artesian Meats, Cheeses & Olives (GF)
Mushroom Vol-Au-Vent Medley of Mushrooms in a Flakey Pastry (VEG)
Lobster Tart with Leeks & Swiss Cheese
Wine: Rutherford Ranch, Sauvignon Blanc
Beer: Rekorderlig, Strawberry-Lime Cider 4.5% ABV

TASTY TAQUERIA

Short Rib Taco - Photo Rights: Busch Gardens

Duck Taco with Sweet Chili Sauce, Slow Roasted, Asian Sweet Chili Sauce on a Corn Tortilla
Short Rib Taco Tender Beef with a BBQ Demi Glaze & Onion Straws on a Corn Tortilla (GF)
Portobello Mushroom Taco Balsamic Vinegar Roasted Portobello Mushrooms Paired with Corn on a Corn Tortilla (GF, V, VEG)
Wine: J. Lohr, Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon
Beer: Goose Island Beer Co., Goose Island IPA 5.9% ABV, 55 IBU
Frozen Cocktails: Mojito, Red Sangria

GARDEN GATE CAFÉ

Tuna Poke - Photo Rights: Busch Gardens

Truffle Seafood Mac & Cheese, Shrimp, Scallops, & Cod in a Creamy Swiss Cheese Sauce Scented with White Truffle
Tuna Poke, Hawaiian Seasoned Tuna
Wine: Murphy Goode, Sauvignon Blanc
Beer: Brew Bus Brewing, You're My Boy Blueberry Wheat 6% ABV, IBU 12

CONCERTS:

Here is the lineup of concerts at the Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival. You can purchase a VIP seating upgrade (as mentioned above), which will get you prime seats and 5 treats from the festival. There is literally something for everyone at this years festival! There are quite a few concerts from this years festival I would love to see.
March 3rd: Sister Hazel and Edwin McCain 5:30pm
March 4th: Group Niche 6pm
March 10th: The Fray 7pm
March 11th: Southern Uprising - Travis Tritt, The Charlie Daniels Band, The Marshall Tucker Band 3pm
March 17th: Olga Tanon 7pm
March 18th: Goo Goo Dolls 6pm
March 24th: Better than Ezra & Tonic 5:30pm
March 25th: Michael Bolton 6pm
March 31st: Boyz II Men 7pm
April 1st: Natalie Grant 6pm
April 7th: Hank Williams Jr 7pm
April 8th: TLC 6pm
April 14th: Bret Michaels 7pm
April 15th: Kool & The Gang and The Commodores 5:30pm
April 21st: The All-American Rejects 7pm
April 22nd: Cole Swindell 6pm
April 28th: Flo Rida 7pm
April 29th: Kaleo & Bleachers 5:30pm

Special thanks to Busch Gardens for hosting us at the VIP media preview. I was not required to write a post, as always all opinions are my own. 

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Rock Spa Happy Hour at Hard Rock Tampa

Two of my all time favorite activities are Spa Days and Happy Hour. So when Hard Rock Tampa introduced Rock Spa Salon Happy Hour, I had to check it out.

Monday through Thursday from 2pm to 6pm you can receive 20% off select services while enjoying a complimentary drink, your choice of Whiskey & Soda, Vodka & Orange Juice, Sangria, House Chardonnay or Cabernet Sauvignon.

I got a pedicure and had a wide variety of colors to choose from with the option to upgrade with Shelac. along with my wonderful pedicure, I relaxed with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon. It was a very relaxing hour spent at Hard Rock Tampa.

The following nail, hair and makeup treatments fall under the Rock Spa Happy Hour Menu:

MANICURE • $55 Each / PEDICURE • $65 Each

On The Rocks
A warm molten scrub down with a velvety massage and finished with hot stones.

Hot Whiskey Scour
A warm, buttery nectar milk before being buffed and scrubbed with a spiked of molten bourbon and finished with an agave nectar massage.

Watermelon Basil Vodkatini
Skin is hydrated in antioxidants with a sparkling citrus cilantro soak. Next, there's a polish to perfection with a fresh watermelon basil vodkatini sugar scrub infused with organic vodka. Finish with a vitamin rich whipped shea butter massage.

HAIR

Cut, Style & Blow-Dry • Starts at $75
All Over Color • Starts at $80
Hi/Lo Lights • Starts at $90

MAKEUP
Basic Application • $65

Note: Prices and services are subject to change without notice. One complimentary beverage per service, not to exceed two beverages. Happy Hour menu items are not to be combined with other promotion or offer.

Be sure to follow Hard Rock Tampa on Social to keep up with their latest promotions.
Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Blog

ICYMI There is a big Halloween party in Tampa coming up this Saturday at Hard Rock Tampa! Click here for more details!

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The Getaway 5K and 10K is Coming to St Pete - Plus a Discount Code #SunFunRun

There's a new family friendly fun in the sun race coming to St Pete next month! The Getaway 5K, 10K, one miler and family Fun run will take place November 5th at Albert Whitted Park.

Following the race will follow the Sun Fun Run theme with a beach-themed post-race celebration. You can expect live music, food, beverages, vendors and a play area for kids. Plus the series is donating to Feeding Tampa Bay to assist in building back the food banks in the areas after the recent  hurricanes.

Discount Code!
You can save 15% off the registration with my Getaway 5K discount code: Blog357! Click here to register for the The Getaway 5K

The Getaway 5K & 10K Medal
You know I am all about the bling. This one is one of the nicest 5K/10K Medals I have seen. It's larger than most Half Marathon medals I own and doubles as a beer opener, which has a magnet on the back!

Getaway 10K Race Perks:
1/4 zip, sweat-wicking pullover jacket, with thumb-holes and an embroidered logo
Getaway 10K Race Medal

Getaway 5K Race Perks:
Race event t-shirt
Getaway 5K Race Medal

Benefiting
When signing up for the Getaway race series, you can make a donation to Feeding Tampa Bay. The Getaway series is matching donations and will assist on restocking the foodbanks across the bay after our recent Hurricanes.

The Courses:
All courses will have the same start and finish line in Albert Whitted Park! The courses run along Tampa Bay with beautiful views of the water with Tampa in the distance.

Getaway 10K Course
The timed 10K run will start and finish at Albert Whitted Park. The route will travel an out-and-back course in beautiful, downtown St. Pete. Participants will run along the water, past the 5K turnaround point, before returning to Albert Whitted Park for the finish line and the post-event party. The 10K will have three water stops on course with water and Gatorade product. All ages welcome!

Getaway 5K Course
The timed 5K run will start and finish at Albert Whitted Park. The route will travel an out-and-back course in beautiful, downtown St. Pete. Participants will run along the water before returning to Albert Whitted Park for the finish line and the post-event party. The 5K will have one water stop along the course. All ages welcome

Family Friendly Fun!

I've been blessed to do many races over the past years including international and the majors. One of my favorite experiences however was a small town 5K which I did with my family. There were about 25 of us, ranging in ages of 2 to 70. Some walked, some ran and some pushed strollers. Overall, it was the best time I've had on any race course in quite sometime. It was all about the experience.

This is a great opportunity to check out a new race series, collect an amazing medal and bring home some gear. Registration prices will go up soon. Remember to use code Blog357 & Click here to register for the The Getaway 5K.

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Giveaway - 5th Annual Tampa Bay Margarita Festival featuring Barenaked Ladies

Hi Tampa friends! This Saturday is the 5th Annual Tampa Bay Margarita Festival. I am excited to attend once again this year.  2017 will be full of delicious margaritas and amazing music including the headliner Barenaked Ladies! Click here for the entertainment lineup at the 2017 Margarita Festival.

GIVEAWAY
I am giving away a pair of General Admission tickets - click the photo below to be taken to my Instagram (@irun4wine)
1. Follow Me
2. Like the Photo
3. Tag a friend - for every friend you tag, you will gain an additional entry.

2017 Margarita Festival Details

There are multiple ways to enjoy the festival in 2017. Be sure to get your tickets in advance and follow along at Tampa Bay Margarita Festival's facebook page so you know where you can pick up wrist bands prior to the event.

Click here to purchase your Tampa Bay Margarita Festival tickets

General Admission
$20 advanced | $25 Regular | $30 at the door (if available)
Drinks available to purchase
In and out access to the Tampa Bay Margarita Festival to enjoy all the amenities, games, and entertainment, including headliner Barenaked Ladies.

Grand Marnier VIP Experience
$125 advanced | $150 Regular | $175 at the door (if available)
UNLIMITED MARGARITAS, Beer, Wine, and Water (within the VIP Grand Marnier Cantina Only) along with all day in and out access to the Tampa Bay Margarita Festival to enjoy all the amenities, games, and entertainment. All of the margaritas served in the Grand Marnier VIP Experience will feature Grand Marnier and Top Shelf Tequila. Also enjoy access to the VIP ONLY Restroom trailers.

Lunazul Stage View VIP Tickets
$150 Advanced | $175 Regular | $200 at the door (if available)
These tickets give you an amazing close up view of the Stage along with Unlimited Lunazul Margaritas, Beer, Wine, and Water (within the Stage View VIP Only) along with all day in and out access to the Tampa Bay Margarita Festival to enjoy all the amenities, games, and entertainment.
All of the margaritas served in the Stage View will feature Lunazul Tequila. Also enjoy access to the VIP ONLY Restroom trailers

V-VIP
$450 for two people Advanced | $500 for two people Regular
The VVIP Experience is designed for those who want to be guaranteed a private lounge seating area with great views of the stage AND access to UNLIMITED Margaritas (within the VVIP only). You will enjoy a private bar serving only the reserved seating area along with cocktail service.

VIP Cabana
$3,000 for 10 People
VIP Cabanas feature large, private, elevated cabana areas along with lounge furniture and misting systems. Also enjoy unlimited margarita bar service from your very own hostess/server. Also enjoy unlimited beer, wine, and water. Amenities include: Prime stage views from elevated cabana areas, Private security/special credentialed access only, Priority Check-in & Entry (Credentials delivered prior to event), VIP only restroom trailers, Corporate signage allowed at cabana for marketing/visibility, Private catering allowed (please inquire prior to event)

Grand Tequila Tasting Add-on $25 Early | $30 Regular
This ticket is NOT VALID for entry to the festival. You must purchase an additional entry ticket (either GA or VIP). This ticket gaines you entry to the Tequila Grand Tasting event within the festival from 2pm to 6pm only. This ticket includes a collectible Margarita Festival tasting glass and FIVE tequila tastings from over 30 tequilas available. Must present this ticket at tasting tent for entry.

NEW! RFID wristbands
This year, credit cards are automatically linked to the RFID wristbands where you don't have to top-up. Top up stations will be for cash!

2017 Tampa Bay Margarita Festival Margaritas and Drinks

Drinks are listed by their bar (in bold). Reference the 2017 Tampa Bay Margarita Festival Map above for their location.

Hornitos Frozen Frozen Classic Margarita | Frozen Mango Margarita | Frozen Strawberry Margarita | Frozen Classic Bucket | Frozen Mango Bucket | Frozen Strawberry Bucket
​
Hornitos Bar Hornito's Classic Margarita | Hornitos Flor Rita - Natalie's Fresh OJ | Hornitos Black Barrell Margarita | Hornitos Midori Sour Rita | Hornitos Cucumber Mint Rita | Sauza Pomegranate Margarita | Sauza Lemonade Margarita | Sauza Black Cherry Margarita
​
Tito's Handmade Vodka Bar
Tito-Rita | Water-Meli Rita | White Peach Rita
​
Milagro's Tequila Bar
Classic Miracle Margarita | Paloma Rita | Ancho Reyes Margarita (spicy) | Strawberry Kiwi Basil Margarita
​
BOLS LIQUEUR-Add Flavor to your Margarita Bar featuring Suerte Tequilla
Classic V.O.C Margarita | Azul Rita | Flower Rita | Watermelon Rita
​
Cazadores Tequila Bar
Classic Cazadores Margarita | Tiki Rita | Prickly Pear Margarita | Spicy Margarita

Cuervo Tequila Bar
Classic Traditional Margarita | Blood Orange Margarita - Natalie's Juice | Passion Fruit Margarita | Mango Jalapeno Margarita | Crisp Apple Margarita

​ Corona Beer
Corona | Corona Light | Modelo

​Corona Find Your Beach Bar
Corona-Rita | Corona Light -Can
​
EXTREME MARGARITA BAR ft. Margaritaville Tequila
Margaritaville Mango Margarita | The Snake Charmer Rita w/Natalie's Fresh OJ | Pineapple Sriracha-Rita | Fire (Balls) to the Wall | Rita | Rosé- Rita | Rosé Wine by the Glass | Rosé Sparkling by the Can | Southern Twang Rita | Blood Orange Red Bull-Rita | Red Bull- Blood Orange Can | Red Bull Rita | Red Bull - Regular Can | Blue Chair Bay Rum Bar | Classic Blue Chair Rum-Rita | Spicy Cucumber Rum Rita | Melon Rum Rita
​
White Claw Bar
White Claw Grapefruit-Rita | White Claw Lime-Rita | White Claw Black Cherry-Rita | White Claw Grapefruit-Can Only | White Claw Lime-Can Only | White Claw Black Cherry-Can Only
​
Cabo Wabo Tequila Bakyard Bar
Cabo Rita | Mango Rita | Beer Rita | Cabo Mule
​
Zignum Mezcal Bar
Second AV Sling | Ginger Mezcalita

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Ruth's Chris Dauo Vineyards Tastemaker Dinner

A few weeks back Gabe and I had the opportunity to check out Ruth's Chris Dauo Vineyards Tastemaker Dinner. Ruth's Chris holds a special place in our heart as it was one of the first places we dined at when we moved to Tampa 6 years ago. There's something about the steak and melted butter that gets me every time.

We had a fantastic time at the Tastemaker dinner and I hope to attend more in the future. The April Ruth's Chris Tastemaker Dinner will be a 5 course pairing with Jonnie Walker. Click here to find a location and date near you. Along with Johnnie Walker, there is a fantastic lineup for the rest of the year including: Chateau Montelena Winery, Moet Hennessy (which I must go to) and Marchesi Antinori. You can check up the lineup and get the dates for your Ruth's Chris by clicking here.

So back to the Dauo Tastemaker Dinner, we had 5 courses perfectly paired with Dauo wines. Each plate was excellent as was the wine. Overall, I was very impressed with the Tastemaker dinner and Ruth's Chris did an excellent job with it.

First Course:
JERK MARINATED PORK TENDERLOIN
Jamaican Coconut Rice Cake, Mango Chutney
Paired With: DAOU “CHEMIN DE FLEURS”, Paso Robles, California

This pork was cooked to perfection and had a great spice to it. The Chemin De Fleurs was a perfect pairing to this slightly spicy dish. I have never had this varietal of wine before, which is very rare. I am pretty picky with white wines and this was one anyone could drink.

Second Course:
HONEY & SOY GLAZED ATLANTIC COD
Roasted Fingerling Sweet Potatoes
Paired With: DAOU CHARDONNAY, Paso Robles, California

The cod was full of flavor and I loved the roasted fingerling sweet potatoes. I was thankful that the portions were not full plates as we were already getting full on course 2. Of course I was happy with the wine pairing on this course, a beautiful chardonnay from Paso Robles. I may have stolen my husbands glass :)

Third Course:
CHOCOLATE & COFFEE BRAISED SHORT RIB RAGOUT, Pappardelle Pasta
Paired With: DAOU CABERNET SAUVIGNON, Paso Robles, California

Anytime I am presented with pappardelle, my life becomes 10x happier. Mix that pappardelle with chocolate and coffee braised short rib...well be still my heart. Seriously one of the best, if not the best, pastas I have had in the US. Dear Ruth's Chris, I need this recipe. The Daou Cabernet was an excellent companion to this dish.

Main Course: 
PETITE FILET MIGNON, BALSAMIC GOAT CHEESE GLAZE, Zucchini Fritters, Potatoes Au Gratin
Paired With: DAOU CABERNET SAUVIGNON, “RESERVE”, Paso Robles, California

The star of the show at Ruth's Chris is always the filet mignon and this one did not disappoint. Not seen in the photo of meat and butter was our sides, consisting of zucchini fritters and potatoes au gratin. All was delicious. Then to pair it with a reserve Daou Cab was an extra treat. This wine drank beautiful with the steak.

Dessert Course:
MOLTEN CHOCOLATE CAKE, Chambord Cream
Paired With: Pessimist Red Blend, Paso Robles, California

Apparently after 4 courses and glasses of wine, I tried to get artistic with my dessert photo. Excuse the super sideways pic! The chambord cream was insane and I could have happily ate an entire dish of it. We truly enjoyed the Pessimist red blend with the dessert.

Awesome job to the Tampa Ruth's Chris team. You left us impressed!

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