As 2023 draws to a close, we reminisce about a year marked by milestones, record-setting events and dedicated community engagement. As a bustling hub within The Heights District, we curated an array of events, pioneered new experiences and extended warm welcomes to countless guests.
Events Galore:
Throughout the year, our property hosted nearly a thousand events. Of those events, over 550 were private events ranging from corporate lunches or galas, charity events, birthdays, baby showers, and weddings to name a few. Notably, the property was the backdrop for over 100 special “I do” moments throughout the year.
Our calendar boasted over 300 public events with a majority being free to our community. Among these were more than 150 fitness-focused events, tailored towards Tampa’s more active community. We also hosted F45 Games and Camp Games, drawing fitness enthusiast spectators and participants alike. From Amazing Athlete classes for kids to monthly book clubs, invigorating yoga on the lawn sessions, trivia nights in the courtyard, local markets and a rotating array of DIY classes, our offerings aimed to embrace a wide spectrum of ages, interests and activities.
Unforgettable Firsts:
The year saw remarkable firsts that set the bar for 2024. Collaborating with Warner Brother’s agency, we created a largely attended Barbie Beach Bash, commemorating the release of the widely popular movie. Additionally, our inaugural Nighttime Rides by the River in July, followed by the November event benefiting Toys for Tots, drew substantial crowds and showcased some of the hottest, most exotic cars from Tampa to Miami. Across the year, Rides by the River displayed over 4,500 cars.
Another standout moment was Creamsicle Day, an event in partnership with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, which celebrated the team’s throwback jerseys and the beginning of football season. Then there was the release of our 5th Year Anniversary Armature Works Brew, in partnership with Barriehaus Beer Co., which marked the beginning of an annual tradition to unveil a new custom beer design each year. Be on the lookout for our 2024 design which will debut in mid-February.
Community Engagement at Its Core:
Our commitment to charities and non-profits remained a cornerstone of our ethos as we partnered with various charities such as Hillsborough Education Foundation, Toys for Tots, Dream Cars for Kids, Clothes for Kids, K9’s for Warriors, Feeding Tampa Bay, Metropolitan Ministries, Friends of the Riverwalk, and Keeping Tampa Bay Beautiful. Moreover, our dedicated private events team collaborated closely with impactful charities such as Children’s Dream Fund, Children’s Cancer Center, St. Jude’s, American Heart Association and Make-A-Wish, actively contributing to the realization of their events.
Celebrity Sightings:
The venue experienced several celebrity sightings and major musical performances by world-renowned artists throughout the year, including electrifying performances by Diplo and Above & Beyond at Piper’s Haunted Carnival. Our highly anticipated Marshmello performance at Piper’s NYE bash on our Pier will end the year with a bang on December 31st.
Celebrity sightings always create buzz and excitement on property. This year, notable appearances included Gronk and Tom Brady, John Cena at one of our Rides by the River, and Sung-Ho Kang from Fast and the Furious, who visited Heights Public Market, all created memorable moments for visitors.
Evolving Spaces & Offerings:
Continuing to evolve, we enhanced our charm and offerings with several notable updates. These updates included a new mural by the world-renowned artist Nasepop, a refreshed Glazer Museum mural, and the expansion of seating on the West Lawn, providing more space for guests to enjoy Armature Works. The addition of The Fold, our new pizza by-the-slice concept has quickly become a guest favorite. There was also the opening of Hyde House Heights which added another dimension to the venue’s allure by offering a new co-work space and an additional event venue space. We also opened The Shop where we launched official Armature Works merchandise.
Looking Ahead to 2024:
As we bid adieu to an amazing year, we look forward to what’s to come in 2024. Guests can expect the unveiling of five new concepts in Q1, promising fresh experiences and culinary delights. Property enhancements and new events will continue to elevate our venue’s ambiance and draw.
We express our gratitude to all of our 2023 guests and partners. This year showcased our dedication to providing an inclusive space for the community, offering both new and familiar experiences and creating lasting memories. As the calendar turns to 2024, the stage is set for more evolution, engagement, and excitement at Armature works, the heart of The Heights District.
