It’s finally here. The grand opening of Bonnet Springs Park kicks off this weekend with two full days of activities.
Make the most of your weekend with these quick tips. For a full schedule + breakdown, check out the schedule online .
Quick Tips
- The free event takes place on Sat., Oct. 22, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sun., Oct. 23, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. at 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd.
- Parking is all off-site for the grand opening. View locations and shuttle information here .
- This is an outdoor event, but guests are asked to leave their pets at home.
- Guests are permitted to bring picnic blankets, lawn chairs, umbrellas + coolers (no alcoholic beverages, please).
Food
- Over 15 food trucks including Acai Bulk Bowls, Crab Daddy’s Surf & Turf, MK Boba + many more
- Stop by The Depot for hamburgers, chicken tenders, french fries, and more.
- Find Starbucks Coffee at the Hollis Family Welcome Center.
- Find non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks on the Lakeland Regional Health Circulator and near the Allen & Company Family Lawn.
Activities
- The Opening Ceremony will take place at the Plaza at the Depot on Sat., Oct. 22 at 10 a.m.
- Animal lovers — check out the Encounters with Busch Gardens Tampa Bay + Gatorland at the Animal Stage, Bird Watching at the Boathouse, and the Garden Show at the Greenhouse.
- Meet local celebrities like Lakeland Magic’s Swish, Tampa Bay Lightning’s ThunderBug, Tampa Bay Rays’ DJ Kitty, and other lovable mascots .
- Wave hello to strolling performers, stilt walkers, and the Swan City Roller Derby as they strut and zoom through the park.
- Take a ride on one of Bike Zoo’s rideable creatures (we heard there might be an owl, but hoo knows?).
- Shop from local vendors at Buena Market on Sun., Oct. 23 from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on the Great Lawn.
- View the fireworks after Hunter Hayes’ performance on Sat., Oct. 21 from 8:15-8:45 p.m.
Music
- The Band Perry | Sat., Oct. 22 | 5-6:15 p.m. | Main Stage
- Hunter Hayes | Sat., Oct. 22 | 6:45-8:15 p.m. | Main Stage
- Local artists like Van Plating, Kimmy Gabriela, and more | Sat., Oct. 22 | 11 a.m.- 5 p.m | The Lounge
- Sister Hazel | Sun., Oct. 23 | 4-5:30 p.m. | Main Stage
- Spin Doctors | Sun., Oct. 23 | 5:45-7 p.m. | Main Stage
- Local artists like Micah Madore, Kaleigh Baker, and more | Sun., Oct. 23 | 11:30 a.m.- 4:15 p.m | The Lounge
For more details on anything listed above and other event features, check out the schedule online . For more frequently asked questions, click here .