N※N

Busch Gardens Announces 2026 Concert Series

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/28/busch-gardens-announces-2026-concert-series.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, January 28th 2026 at 8:54 GMT by WSB-TV
      Locales: Florida, UNITED STATES

TAMPA, Fla. - January 28, 2026 - Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is gearing up for a musically charged summer in 2026, promising a concert series packed with recognizable names and guaranteed crowd-pleasers. The theme park announced today a lineup headlined by 90s boy band icon Nick Carter, chart-topping rapper Flo Rida, and the iconic soft-rock duo Air Supply. Performances are slated to take place at the Garden Gate Theater, offering a unique outdoor concert experience within the thrilling atmosphere of the park.

This announcement signals a continued commitment from Busch Gardens to provide entertainment beyond its world-class rides and animal encounters. In recent years, the park has increasingly focused on diversifying its offerings, recognizing that a compelling entertainment lineup is crucial for attracting both season pass holders and tourists alike. The 2026 concert series appears to be aiming for broad appeal, blending nostalgia with contemporary hits.

A Lineup for All Ages

Nick Carter, best known as a member of the Backstreet Boys, brings a wave of 90s nostalgia to the stage. Though the Backstreet Boys continue to tour successfully, Carter's solo appearance indicates a desire to reach a wider demographic and offer a different type of performance. His enduring popularity speaks to the staying power of 90s pop culture and the devoted fanbase that still supports the genre.

Flo Rida, a mainstay on the Billboard charts throughout the late 2000s and early 2010s, represents a more contemporary sound. Hits like "Low," "Right Round," and "Club Can't Handle Me" are guaranteed to energize the crowd and bring a dance-party atmosphere to the Garden Gate Theater. His inclusion suggests Busch Gardens is targeting younger audiences and those who appreciate high-energy performances.

Air Supply, the Australian soft-rock duo, provides a contrasting element to the lineup. With a career spanning decades, they are known for their romantic ballads like "All Out of Love" and "The One That You Want." Their presence offers a softer, more melodic experience, appealing to an older demographic and providing a welcome change of pace.

The phrase "and more" suggests additional artists will be announced in the coming months, potentially diversifying the musical offerings even further. It's likely Busch Gardens will aim for a balanced schedule, incorporating various genres and artists to appeal to all park guests.

Impact on Tourism and Local Economy

The concert series is expected to have a positive impact on the Tampa Bay area's tourism industry. Concert-goers will likely book hotel rooms, dine at local restaurants, and explore other attractions in the region, providing a boost to the local economy. Busch Gardens' consistent investment in entertainment helps solidify its position as a premier destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Details Still to Come

Park President Jeremy Schoolman expressed excitement about the lineup, stating, "We're thrilled to announce our 2026 concert lineup! Get ready to rock with some of music's biggest names." However, specific dates for each performance and ticket information have not yet been released. Busch Gardens encourages fans to stay tuned to their official website and social media channels for updates. WSB-TV has also committed to providing ongoing coverage as more details become available.

Industry analysts predict that ticket sales will be brisk, particularly for Nick Carter and Flo Rida, given their established fan bases and the limited availability of concert venues. Busch Gardens is likely to offer various ticket packages, including options that combine concert access with park admission, maximizing revenue and providing value for guests.