TAMPA, Fla. — It has been an exciting week for the Outback Bowl in Tampa, with events leading up to the big game back on after being cancelled over COVID concerns last year.

The annual Outback Bowl Parade caps off the week of festivities in Ybor City tonight, before the teams get to work on the field on game day.


What You Need To Know


“We were really excited about the opportunity to have a full week of events this year," said Michael Schulze, Director of Outback Bowl Communications and Sponsorships.

So far this week, Penn State and Arkansas players have been to Sparkman Wharf to bowl at Splitsville.

They spent a day at Busch Gardens.

And they spent the day yesterday on Clearwater Beach for events and activities.

Behind the scenes, a lot of prep work has been ongoing, not just for game day but the parade tonight down 7th Avenue in Ybor City.

Each year, the Outback Bowl re-makes its float to reflect the teams playing in the game.

“As you know historic Ybor City, 7th Avenue, a great avenue for our parade each year.  Again, last year we weren't able to do it.  This year people are going to be able to celebrate New Years with the teams, with the college bands down there, be able to experience something really fun as we lead in to game day," said Schulze.

Parade time in Ybor City is 5:30pm.

Before that, the team marching bands will be at Busch Gardens for a Battle of the Bands.