Celebrating 15 Years of Community and Music: Rock the Park Tampa at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Rock the Park Celebrates 15 Years of Music and Community in Tampa

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Tampa, FL – September 4, 2019

As the vibrant city of Tampa continues to evolve, one cherished tradition remains steadfast: the Rock the Park concert series at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Celebrating its 15th anniversary this month, the beloved event has become a cornerstone of downtown culture, drawing music lovers from all walks of life.

Joe D’Acunto, the series’ long-time booker, reflects on its humble beginnings. “It is what it is, right—it’s three bands,” he said, emphasizing the simplicity that has defined Rock the Park since its inception. Launched shortly after the park opened in 2004, the series was designed to foster a family-friendly atmosphere and cultivate a love for music in the heart of downtown.

With a diverse lineup that spans genres, Rock the Park has showcased nearly 500 artists over the years, providing a platform for both emerging talent and established acts. “The music community itself has embraced it, so in that manner, it kind of directs itself,” D’Acunto noted, highlighting the organic growth of the event.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Tampa skyline, the concert series has become a rite of passage for local bands aspiring to make their mark. Drummer Andrew Kilmartin, a familiar face at the event, has provided sound support for nearly every show, witnessing firsthand the evolution of the music scene.

Ivy Lupco, now Manager of Public Space Placemaking & Programming at the Tampa Downtown Partnership, shared that there have been 180 iterations of Rock the Park, with each event bringing together families, friends, and music enthusiasts. To commemorate the milestone, special t-shirts featuring the names of all artists will be given to the first 100 fans at the anniversary show.

This year’s celebration promises an electrifying lineup, headlined by the high-energy rap ensemble Barely Legal Collective, affectionately dubbed the “Black Backstreet Boys.” They will be joined by Gainesville’s Sooza party brass band and the ever-evolving Americana-rock group Have Gun, Will Travel. Local food trucks and live painting by Mark Anthony’s MA Art will add to the festive atmosphere.

D’Acunto, who has been booking shows since 1998, recalls memorable performances, including a standout set from the indie-rock band Flipturn, which has since gained national recognition. “It was just one of those all-encompassing ‘holy shit’ moments,” he said, reflecting on the joy of witnessing local talent thrive.

As the future of Rock the Park looks bright, Kenyetta Hairston-Bridges, President and CEO of the Tampa Downtown Partnership, acknowledges its significance in the community. “It’s a staple of the community. It’s made a name for itself,” she stated, assuring fans that the series is here to stay.

With plans for new events and initiatives inspired by Rock the Park, the tradition continues to shape Tampa’s cultural landscape. As D’Acunto puts it, “It’s about community, family, and exposing young artists to a different crowd.”

Join the celebration at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park on September 4, 2019, for an unforgettable night of music, food, and community spirit. Admission is free, and the memories are priceless.

For more information, visit Rock the Park Tampa.