Meet Tarpon Springs
North of Clearwater Beach is our historic town of Tarpon
Springs. Tarpon Springs is a historic small city with an
unusual mix of Greek culture, as well as Victorian and Floridian
architecture. Going to Tarpon Springs is like experiencing a
taste of Greece without going overseas.
In the early 1900s, the natural sponge beds along the coast of
Tarpon Springs were discovered by Greek immigrants. After this
discovery, the sponge industry grew rapidly and there was a need
for sponge divers to keep up with the highly sought-after demand.
So, divers from Greece were brought over to the area. Since then,
this Greek heritage has lingered in the community as well as local
Greek culture and dining. Because of the abundance of natural
sponge beds in the area, Tarpon Springs is known as the Sponge
Capital of the World.
Visit the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks to taste
authentic Greek food, shop in Greek-inspired
stores, and party like a Greek during regular events
along the colorful Dodecanese Boulevard. Walking
along the Boulevard, you can witness the sponge
business firsthand. There are boating and fishing
excursions, unique boutiques and shops, as well
as an aquarium. Of course, don’t miss the sponge
diving exhibitions! The sponges that are harvested
in Tarpon Springs are sold all around the world.
Annual Events:
March: Fine Arts Festival
September: Art and Crafts Festival
October: Octoberfest
Trunk or Treat
Salsa Night
Arts & Crafts Festival
November: Seafood Festival
Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Festival
Sister Cities Grape Leaves Competition
December: Snow Place Like Tarpon Springs
Christmas Parade/Candy Cane Hunt
January: Tarpon Springs Epiphany
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42 | Clearwater Beach Visitor’s Guide