Winter Jam in Tampa

Lizzy Breen

Winter Jam is an annual Christian concert hosted in downtown featuring multiple famous artists. With a popular set list, attendance numbers are sure to be high at Amalie Arena this Friday night with several Plant students in the crowd.

Winter Jam is a concert that features famous Christian artists and hosts shows in over 40 cities in the US. In downtown Tampa, this event is hosted annually by Amalie Arena. This year’s featured artists include We The Kingdom, Jeremy Camp, Andy Mineo, Anne Wilson, Disciple, Austin French, Newsong, and Zane Black. Many Plant students are planning on attending the event downtown; however, getting into the concert is another story. There are no online ticket sales, and the cost is $15 at the door. Therefore entry is first come, first served, and although music begins at 6 p.m., thousands of hopeful attendants line the street waiting to get in. Junior Addison Hollonbeck has attended multiple years in a row and is excited for the upcoming show.  

“Winter Jam is a super fun concert because it is an easy event to go to with your friends, and you listen to a lot of artists you know. It’s also an easy way to listen to new artists and music,” says Hollonbeck.  

One artist, in particular, has risen significantly in popularity since her 2021 hit single ”My Jesus,” and has continued to produce multiple record-breaking tracks, including ”Hey Girl” and ”Sunday Sermons.” Singer and songwriter Anne Wilson has become a Christian-music legend, after winning two Dove Awards, for New Artist of the Year and Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year.  

“This year I’m pumped to hear Anne Wilson. She is amazing,” Hollonbeck adds. 

Senior Cameron Ellis is also planning on attending Winter Jam on Friday and has gone in years past. With an unusual method of getting into the event, Ellis is already planning his group’s entrance into Amalie.  

“Winter Jam is always so fun, but it’s even better when I’m with my closest friends. We are getting in line almost two hours early to make sure we get in,” Ellis says.   

Another popular artist and rapper performing at the concert is Andy Mineo. Mineo has been Billboard’s Top Christian artist for his first two albums, 2013’s Heroes For Sale and 2016’s Uncomfortable, and has remained a staple in Christian music since.  

“Andy Mineo has been to Winter Jam before and his act is always so good. I’m so excited to see him again,” adds Ellis.  

Many students and other Tampa citizens are anticipating an exciting performance at Amalie Arena on Friday, Jan. 13. Tampa is the first stop on the extensive location list, and the tour will conclude in Spokane, Washington on March 26.  

Click the link below for more information:

http://winterjamtour