House Matters Tampa Bay Real Estate Blog

Tampa is always full of activities but this year has a bit more in store for us.  With Super Bowl, Gasparilla, the State Fair and the Strawberry Festival coming there's no shortage of activities.

Super Bowl XLIII - February 1st
Most everyone is excited and anxious about this year's Super Bowl which is being held at our very own Raymond James Stadium.  The Super Bowl may not be until Feb. 1st but the festivities officially kick off on January 24th with the NFL Experience.  The NFL Experience run the 24-25th and 29-31st and only costs $18.50 (adults) and $12.50 (12 and under).  On January 29th, the festivities move to Channelside for the blu Kick Off Event.  Then on Saturday, January 31st make your way down to Progress Energy Park in St. Pete for the Third Annual DirectTV Celebrity Beach Bowl. 

Gasparilla - February 7th 10am-11pm
Don't miss the invasion as pirates take over Tampa Bay.  The pirates will sail into the bay at 11:30am.  This is a site not to be missed with the invasion to follow (parade) and lots of celebrating afterward.

Florida State Fair - February 5-16th
With the fair following Super Bowl, the 105th Florida State Fair will carry the theme this year of Touchdown, Tampa Bay.  Along with all the typical fair food and midway rides there will also be a Super Bowl themed show, Blitz, A Tribute to Halftime Shows, Live Shark Encounter show,  Florida Ranch Rodeo and other new shows.  You can purchase discount advance tickets at Sweetbay until February 4th for only $8 (Adults 12+) and $4 (Children 6-11). 

Florida Strawberry Festival - February 26th-March 8th
Whether you're heading down to cheer on your favorite for the Strawberry Festival Queen, eat a little shortcake, watch some entertainment or just brave a few rides, the Strawberry Festival has a little something for everyone.  This year's big headliner is country artist, Taylor Swift.  But, the biggest decision to make is whether you like your strawberries with shortcake, sweet biscuit (my favorite) or just dipped in chocolate.

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Cuts totaling $1.2 billion most heavily hit education, health care and social services.  Gov. Charlie Christ is expected to to sign the measure with just a few line-item vetoes.

While school districts were warned of the cuts months in advance, its still not going to be easy for them.  Teachers in one district were asked to remove any personal appliances in order to save on electricity.  These personal appliances include lamps on teachers desks.  Apparently children may be the future but we don't money in the budget for the "future".

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