Proclamation Coincides with Historic Event at Benchmark International Arena 

In an effort to honor the past and to celebrate the Catholic roots of this area that date back nearly 500 years, the City of Tampa has agreed to make September 20, 2025, Bay of the Holy Spirit Day. That is also the day that 12,000 Catholics from across the region will attend a religious event at the Benchmark International Arena known as the Eucharistic Encounter. Organizers say this gathering represents an opportunity to honor our city’s historical roots and spiritual heritage while fostering unity and understanding among residents.

The City’s declaration raises awareness for the original name of Tampa Bay. Many people might not realize that Tampa Bay was first called Bay of the Holy Spirit or La Bahia de Espirito Santo. That was the name selected by Spanish missionaries and explorers who first came to this area in the 16^th century.

Bay of the Holy Spirit was used until English map makers changed the name in the 1760s when Great Britain acquired Florida from Spain. At that time, the British began to anglicize Florida place names and Espirito Santo became Tampa Bay. (Read more at the Tampa Bay History Center.)