Downtown Tampa is bracing for a significant economic surge as the city's marquee waterfront event kicks off today. Tampa Riverfest, now in its ninth year, is expected to draw approximately 25,000 visitors who will inject an estimated $2 million into the local economy over the weekend. Local businesses have been preparing for months for what many consider their most profitable weekend of the year. Downtown restaurants report booking reservations weeks in advance, with many already at capacity. For organizers, this festival delivers much more than just entertainment. MaryBeth Williams, Executive Director of Riverfest, emphasizes the far-reaching economic impact. MORE: https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/hillsboroughcounty/riverfest-expected-to-bring-2-million-economic-boost-to-tampa-bay/67-8c7b151f-2879-445a-a5c2-63b96691fd95