Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1533069
34 B M & T ••• March/April 2025 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com Explore Tampa's diverse neighborhoods where eco- friendly hospitality thrives, offering sustainable practices from innovative recycling programs to energy-efficient initiatives. These hotel accommodations ensure a respon- sible and comfortable stay for conscientious travelers looking to minimize their environmental footprint. Now meetings at the waterfront Tampa Convention Center are even more scenic — with the completion of 18 new meeting rooms overlooking the water. Spanning two levels, the 18,000-square-foot addition featuring a terrace is the latest in a series of $38 million in upgrades to the cutting-edge venue. In addition to the new floor-to-ceil- ing windows with stunning views, the flexible design pro- vides a variety of configurations including an extension of exhibit hall space. When the meeting day s done, don't just look for leisure activities - have an adventure! When you bring your family to Tampa Bay, you're in for an exciting time. Whether you're racing through the air on a heart-pound- ing roller coaster at Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay, or tak- ing a stroll down the stunning Tampa Riverwalk, you're in for treasures beyond your wildest dreams. Take the guess- work out, grab a CityPASS, and experience the best attractions in Tampa Bay. And relax boldly. See more than 200 species thrive at one of America's most highly accredited zoos. From fan-favorites to criti- cally endangered species, Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay provides world-class care to thousands of animals as one of North America's largest zoos. The Straz Center for the Performing Arts provides world-class entertainment, ranging from lavish Broadway shows to classical music and rock concerts. It is the largest facility of its kind in the Southeastern United States. ROC the Block Inc's Juneteenth Festival is designed to bring the community together and display the rich and diverse culture of Tampa Bay. Being a historical festival, the Juneteenth celebration recalls and highlights the his- tory of the African American community, which is the second largest population of the county, according to the US Census Bureau figures for Hillsborough County, FL (July 1, 2023. Since 2021, the ROC the Block Juneteenth events have featured African American culture in dances, fashion, music, drama etc. in a family-oriented atmos- phere for kids and adults. Different cultural organizations have participated and continue to feature in the celebra- tions yearly. _____________________ WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Visit Tampa Bay – (813) 223-2752 www.visittampabay.com SAN JOSE, CA When you meet in San Jose, you'll find new and his- toric hotels, a state-of-the-art convention center and a vibrant, diverse and walkable downtown that's full of din- ing and entertainment options where safety is a priority. Discover the unparalleled convenience and flexibility of San Jose One Connection—a seamless partnership between the San Jose Marriott, Hilton San Jose, and the San Jose McEnery Convention Center. Together this makes up the Silicon Valley's Single Largest Meeting Option, all under one roof. Comprised of 867 luxurious guest rooms, including 56 spacious suites, 514 rooms with two beds for versatile lodging options, 582,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting, event and exhibit space and an easy accessibility to the San Jose International Airport, this destination has all the tools to make your gathering a suc- cess. The San Jose McEnery Convention Center sits in the center of Downtown and boasts hundreds of varied events a year. From the huge draw of Fanime, the Silicon Valley Auto Show, Silicon Valley Comic Con, annual tech conferences, and specialty events, meetings and tradeshows, the Center is buzzing year-round – it's a good place to start if you're looking for things to do in San Jose. The interactive public art installation "Idea Tree" stands at the front of the Center, which underwent a mas- sive $130 million renovation and expansion and debuted its new makeover in October 2013. San Jose's vast list of family fun activities will surely entertain all, making business and leisure travel a possi- bility in this sunny California destination. Happy Hollow Park and Zoo welcomes animal lovers of all ages to learn about different species and the importance of conserva- tion, interact with animals at the petting zoo, and ride kid- friendly rides. Explore the puzzling estate of the eclectic Sarah Winchester at the iconic Winchester Mystery House, or be your own architect at Legoland Discovery Center – complete with mini Lego versions of notable San Jose attractions. Fill your day with roller coasters, live shows, concerts, fireworks, amusement park food favorites and even a water park at the iconic California's Great America. Thrills for every age are ready to rock your world and run you ragged. New rides and attractions are introduced every year and special events like the nightmarish Halloween Haunt are looked forward to by the tens of thousands! Get your walking shoes ready and practice your screaming, there's a lot to cover on this adrenaline rush of an outing! Black Family Day, Silicon Valley Celebration