The Identity Tampa Bay recommends three things to do this weekend:
Cinco de Mayo at Red Mesa Cantina
Friday 11 a.m. – 12:45 a.m. | Red Mesa Cantina, St. Pete
It’s that time of the year again in which thousands of Americans gather to commemorate Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.
We suggest that if you do raise a glass to General Ignacio Zaragoza this Friday, do so at Red Mesa Cantina. All three floors of its beautiful indoor-outdoor layout will be open and dishing out drink specials alongside a DJ, photobooths and more.
If you needed a extra kicker, it’s also First Friday in Downtown St. Pete. Ganar, ganar.
Kentucky Derby Day 2023 at Tampa Bay Downs
Saturday 10 a.m. | Tampa Bay Downs, Oldsmar
If you can’t make it to the real deal, the most exciting two minutes in sports is going down at the Oldsmar Oval this Saturday.
Tampa Bay Downs has an outstanding racing card of its own throughout the day. But will stop action come the big race to simulcast of the 149th running of the Kentucky Derby. Mint Juleps will be flowing in special souvenir cups. And the prices look how they used to—though not quite how they looked 149 years ago. Derby festivities start at 10 a.m.
Tropical Heatwave
Saturday 6 – 11:45 p.m. | Cuban Club, Ybor City
If you’re still craving a dose of high-flying live acts and top-level music after last week’s Gasparilla Music Festival, look no further than Tropical Heatwave. It’s WMNF’s long-coveted music fest over at the Cuban Club in Ybor City.
This year’s lineup is once again stacked. And your new favorite band is just waiting to be brilliantly discovered. Doors open at 5 p.m. with venues scattered throughout the entirety of the club.