Tarpon Springs Events & Community
Every January 6th, a Greek Orthodox bishop blesses the waters of Spring Bayou and throws a cross into the water. Young men dive in to retrieve it. 20,000 people watch. This is Epiphany in Tarpon Springs — the largest celebration of its kind in the Western Hemisphere, and it's been happening for 119 years.
Signature Events
Epiphany Celebration — January 6th at Spring Bayou. The ceremonial cross dive, followed by a full day of Greek cultural celebration. 20,000+ visitors. The event that defines the calendar.
Tarpon Springs Seafood Festival — November. Seafood, arts, crafts, live music, chef competitions. 37+ years running.
Fine Arts Festival — Spring. Top-rated juried fine arts show with 300+ applicants. One of the best art festivals in the state.
OXI Day — October 28th. Greek national holiday commemorating WWII resistance.
Through the Year
- Winter: Epiphany (January 6), Holiday Boat Parade, Snow Place Like Tarpon. Peak tourist season.
- Spring: Fine Arts Festival, Greek Independence Day celebrations.
- Summer: Sunset Beach Concert Series (monthly), waterfront activities.
- Fall: OXI Day, Seafood Festival (November), Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Festival.
Recurring Events
- First Friday Events — Monthly. Art, food, music.
- Sunset Beach Concert Series — First Thursday, February through November.
- Sponge diving demonstrations — Regular shows at the Sponge Docks.
- Greek dancing performances — Cultural events throughout the year.
Where Things Happen
Sponge Docks waterfront for festivals and cultural events. Spring Bayou for Epiphany. Historic Downtown for art walks and markets. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center for indoor events.