Tampa Bay’s Bowl Games Return for 2025
Get ready, Tampa Bay! Our beloved college football bowl games, the ReliaQuest Bowl and the Gasparilla Bowl, are officially set to return to Raymond James Stadium for the 2025 postseason. This exciting announcement means more top-tier college football action right here in our community, continuing a cherished tradition for fans and residents alike.
The Bowls are Back: Key Details for 2024-2025 Season
Football festivities will kick off with the Gasparilla Bowl, a fan favorite known for its vibrant atmosphere. Scheduled for Friday, December 20, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. ET, this exciting matchup will air live on ESPN. Teams from the ACC, SEC, or Big 12 conferences will face off against a formidable opponent from the American Athletic Conference, promising an engaging game right before the holidays.
Following the new year, Tampa Bay will host its traditional New Year’s Day spectacular: the ReliaQuest Bowl. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, January 1, 2025, with kickoff at noon ET on ESPN2. This prestigious game will once again feature a compelling battle between powerhouse teams from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the Big Ten Conference, ensuring a thrilling start to the new year.
| Bowl Game | Date | Time (ET) | TV | Matchup |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gasparilla Bowl | Dec 20, 2024 | 7:30 PM | ESPN | ACC/SEC/Big 12 vs. American Athletic Conference |
| ReliaQuest Bowl | Jan 1, 2025 | Noon | ESPN2 | SEC vs. Big Ten |
Why These Games Matter for Tampa Bay
Beyond the excitement on the field, these bowl games represent a significant boon for our local economy and community. Hosting two major college football bowls attracts thousands of out-of-town visitors, filling hotel rooms, bustling our restaurants, and boosting business for countless local shops and attractions. It’s a crucial period for our tourism and hospitality sectors, generating vital revenue and employment opportunities.
Furthermore, the national television exposure provided by ESPN and ESPN2 shines a spotlight on Tampa Bay, showcasing our beautiful city, world-class venues, and vibrant culture to millions of viewers across the country. This exposure helps reinforce Tampa’s reputation as a premier destination for major sporting events and a fantastic place to live, work, and visit, instilling a sense of local pride.
Getting Ready: What Locals Can Expect
As the games approach, Tampa residents can anticipate a festive atmosphere spreading throughout the city. While the influx of visitors brings excitement, it’s also wise to prepare for increased traffic around Raymond James Stadium on game days and potentially in popular downtown and South Tampa areas. Keep an eye out for official announcements regarding associated fan events, tailgates, and community activities, which often add to the vibrant experience.
A New Year’s Day Tradition and a Postseason Staple
The ReliaQuest Bowl holds a special place in Tampa Bay’s heart as a New Year’s Day tradition, consistently delivering high-caliber football and drawing immense national interest. Similarly, the Gasparilla Bowl has quickly established itself as a staple of the college football postseason, offering unique local flair and high-energy competition. Their continued presence underscores Tampa’s capacity to host significant sporting spectacles and the strong partnership between the bowl organizations and our city.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When are the 2025 ReliaQuest and Gasparilla Bowls scheduled?
The Gasparilla Bowl is on Friday, December 20, 2024, and the ReliaQuest Bowl is on Wednesday, January 1, 2025. - Where will these bowl games be played?
Both bowl games will be held at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. - Which conferences will be represented in these games?
The ReliaQuest Bowl features teams from the SEC and Big Ten. The Gasparilla Bowl will host teams from the ACC, SEC, or Big 12 against a team from the American Athletic Conference. - How can I get tickets to the games?
Ticket information, including presales and general availability, will typically be announced through the official bowl game websites and local ticket vendors closer to the event dates. Stay tuned to www.reliaquestbowl.com and www.gasparillabowl.com for updates. - What is the local impact of hosting these bowls?
The games bring significant economic benefits through tourism, hotel stays, restaurant visits, and local spending. They also provide national exposure for Tampa Bay and foster community spirit.
As Tampa Bay prepares to host these two major college football events, embrace the excitement, welcome our visitors, and enjoy the thrill of top-tier football right in our own backyard.
Tampa Bay Bowls Return
