While near-freezing temperatures inhabit other cities for winter, Tampa Bay remains warm and sunny. The Bay Area’s mild temperatures are ideal for getting out, exploring, and experiencing everything this holiday season, just without mittens.
Select nights in Nov. and Dec.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year at ZooTampa with the return of Christmas in the Wild, featuring one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays, delectable holiday treats, amazing wildlife and new festive adventures. This year is BIGGER, better, and brighter than ever, with festive entertainment that the whole family will enjoy.
Select dates in Nov. and Dec.
Celebrate the holidays at LEGOLAND® and have a merry time with the whole family. Listen to holiday tunes around the giant LEGO tree, marvel at a stunning 360-degree light show, take photos with your favorite holiday LEGO Characters, and send a special letter to LEGO Santa. Plus, don’t miss the chance to kick off the new year with LEGO brick fireworks looking over Lake Eloise!
Now thru Dec 30
Yo, ho, ho, and a holiday cheer! Set sail on Lost Pearl’s Pirate’s Christmas Cruise and celebrate the season with a Florida twist aboard White Beard’s merry vessel!This family-friendly holiday cruise takes place on select dates in Tampa, where little pirates can enjoy festive games and mail letters to Santa, dropped off at Tampa’s only floating mail buoy to the North Pole! Adults can unwind with cocktails on the aft deck as kids revel in joyful activities, and everyone enjoys a special visit from Santa’s Elf. You may even feel a snow flurry on the high seas—so bundle up for a truly magical pirate holiday. Don’t miss the boat—reserve your spot today!
Now thru Dec. 30
River of Lights will take you on a magical Christmas cruise down the Hillsborough River, where the spirit of the season comes alive. This family-friendly adventure includes Christmas sing-a-longs—complete with snow flurries during “Let it Snow”—and festive games that will get everyone in the holiday spirit. Every child will have the chance to write a letter to Santa and deliver it to Tampa’s only floating mail buoy! Keep your eyes peeled for a special visit to the “Elf on a Barge,” where each child will be gifted a stocking filled with holiday surprises.
Starting Nov. 2
Join the holiday fun at the Glazer Children's Museum's Gingerbread Village, a beloved favorite in Tampa Bay! Included with your museum admission, your family can dive into the fun and craft your very own gingerbread house using recycled materials like cardboard and pipe cleaners. Will you add it to their gingerbread village, or take it home as a sweet keepsake? Either way, it’s a delightful experience filled with laughter and creativity, perfect for creating unforgettable memories this holiday season!
Nov. 10 through Dec. 24
Visit International Plaza and Bay Street for a magical photo opportunity with Santa! Reservations are encouraged, and when you book, you'll receive a free, personalized phone call from Santa before your visit. Walk-ups are also welcome! Don’t miss the special pet photo session on November 24th from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Bring your furry friends and capture cherished holiday memories at Santa’s Flight Academy!
Nov. 14, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Look no further for unique holiday gifts, the Tampa Museum of Art has you covered. Hosting a holiday shopping event featuring work made by local artists and vendors, the Tampa Museum of Art is selling gifts such as jewelry, books, home accessories, stationary, children’s items, and more. While shopping, enjoy snacks, beverages, and free gift wrap!
Nov. 15, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Ever seen snow in Florida? You will at Winter Wonder Wharf at Sparkman Wharf! The waterfront is transformed into a dazzling holiday scene featuring a 30-foot Christmas tree, colorful lights, and the iconic TAMPA sign decorated for the season. Bring your family to this free event to meet Santa, go ice skating, enjoy live entertainment like a DJ, break dancers and aerial artists, and catch the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7:00 PM. With great food, drinks, and plenty of holiday fun, Winter Wonder Wharf is the perfect way to kick off the season!
Nov. 15th through Jan. 5th
Experience the magic of the season at Christmas Town, Busch Gardens ® Tampa Bay. Be dazzled as you stroll through the park lit up with shimmering Christmas lights, encounter fascinating animals from around the world, and ride exhilarating coasters. Enjoy festive shows and holiday-themed treats, all leading up to a spectacular firework display to cap off the night!
Nov. 19, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Watch Hyde Park Village sparkle like never before at the return of its beloved Tree Lighting Celebration! Join them at 7 p.m. for the sparkling tree lighting, live entertainment, and plenty of holiday surprises. Plus, a portion of the evening’s proceeds will benefit The Children’s Dream Fund. It’s an evening of joy, community, and holiday magic you won’t want to miss.
Nov. 20, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Stroll the historic streets of Ybor City and join Tampa Mayor Jane Castor for an evening of live holiday entertainment. The event concludes with the dazzling lighting of Ybor City's beautiful tree.
Nov. 22 through Jan. 5
Outdoor ice skating – in Florida? Festive magic makes it possible at Curtis Hixon Park's Winter Village. The picturesque waterfront park shines in Downtown Tampa for a celebration full of jubilation and festive cheer. Take to the ice, shop locally made gifts, or hop aboard the Winter Village Express for a merry journey through Downtown, complete with onboard cookies and milk!
Nov. 23 through Dec. 31st
A holiday tradition four decades in the making, Tampa Bay's Victorian Christmas Stroll offers a unique glimpse into the past and all the Christmas season has to offer. Visitor-favorite decorations, as well as new ones, are on display and sure to dazzle. Savor complimentary cider and cookies as you enjoy the festivities, and don't miss the live music on weekends from 6 pm - 7:45 pm!
Nov. 24th through Jan. 5
Watching a holiday favorite on the big screen is one of the most cherished holiday traditions. Head over to the historic Tampa Theatre on select nights throughout November and December for showings of holiday classics like Miracle on 34th Street, Elf, and It's a Wonderful Life. Don't miss out on this holiday tradition—grab your tickets and get ready for a cozy, cinematic celebration!
Nov. 28 through Dec. 29
Immerse yourself in a breathtaking holiday light display that will transport you and your family into a world of wonder, with over a million lights from entrance to exit. Enjoy a captivating two-mile drive-thru filled with stunning light displays, then take a stroll through Santa’s Village, where you’ll find exciting attractions, festive treats, and a chance to meet Santa himself!
Nov. 29 through Dec. 30
Get ready for a night full of holiday cheer aboard Yacht Starship! Enjoy Tampa’s beautiful skyline as you indulge in a carefully crafted holiday buffet and refreshments, and end your evening listening to holiday tunes and dancing the night away on the ship’s top deck.
Nov. 29 through Jan. 2
The Holiday Spectacular at the Tampa Riverwalk is back! Enjoy festive cheer along the Riverwalk and through downtown Tampa as the city lights up for the holidays. Be dazzled by vibrant floating light displays, along with a magnificent 30-foot LED Christmas tree that dances along to holiday music in front of Sail Plaza. Join us for a celebration that captures the magic of the season!
Nov. 29 through Jan. 5
Dive into the holiday spirit at YuleTides, a one-of-a-kind celebration at The Florida Aquarium! Wander through the Holiday Tree Trail, where each boat is decked out with a one-of-a-kind tree, and don’t miss the stunning Signature Tree made from upcycled beach materials. Snap a festive photo with Santa at his Wharf, then join in the fun with caroling, cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus, and meet Rocky and Tango in their holiday gear. With sand sculptures and a ton of coastal charm, YuleTides is a holiday experience unlike any other!
Nov. 29 thru Jan. 5
Step into a holiday wonderland at Dinosaur World, where sparkling lights and lantern displays bring the magic of Christmas to life among towering dinosaurs. Meet Santa, enjoy festive activities, and join in special events throughout the celebration. Browse the Christmas Market for unique gifts, hop aboard the Candy Cane Express for a magical ride, and pick up a special gem bag from Uncle Rex’s Gem Mine. Warm up with a cup of delicious Swedish hot chocolate and create wonderful memories with your family this holiday season!
Dec. 1, 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Join the community on the iconic Tampa Riverwalk for the 4th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting! Watch as Mayor Jane Castor sails in on a Pirate Water Taxi to flip the switch, lighting up the night with a breathtaking 35-foot floating Christmas tree. Enjoy a magical performance of “The Nutcracker” by the Tampa City Ballet, along with delicious food and fun activities for the whole family. It’s a holiday celebration packed with cheer you won’t want to miss!
Dec. 7
Enjoy a fun and festive parade through Downtown Tampa before Christmastime entertainment and activities take hold at the park! Later in the evening, meet Santa Claus and Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and watch them light up the tree for Tampa's annual tree lighting ceremony.
Dec. 13
Experience the magic of the season with "Classical Christmas" performed by the Florida Orchestra at the Straz Center! This enchanting concert will transport you to a cozy Christmas wonderland, featuring the talented Master Chorale of Tampa Bay. Join in the festive spirit with an audience sing-along and delightful holiday music that will fill your heart with joy.
Dec. 14, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Who said there’s no science behind the holidays? Join MOSI for Santa’s Scientific Workshop, a hands-on experience for the whole family. Meet Santa Claus and tell him all of your Christmas wishes, or write a special letter to be mailed directly to his doorstep. Unveil the scientific secrets of Santa’s sleigh ride while enjoying delicious milk and cookies!
Dec. 14, 5:30 PM to 6:45 PM
Prepare for a festive holiday hangout paddle on the water with a dazzling full moon experience! Wear your festive gear as you embark on a group adventure from Armature Works, guided by Urban Kai. Glide along the Hillsborough River, taking in the stunning views of downtown Tampa illuminated by holiday decorations and twinkling lights. A basic level of paddling is needed, so bring your sense of adventure and get ready for some festive fun!
Dec. 14, 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Get ready to pedal your way into the holiday spirit with Onbikes’ 13th Annual Winter Wonder Ride! This festive bike ride takes you on a scenic tour of Tampa, starting at the iconic Curtis Hixon Park and cruising through the historic University of Tampa campus, along Bayshore Boulevard, and by the beautiful Hillsborough River. After you’ve worked up an appetite for fun, keep the celebration going at the Aprés-Ski After Party back at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, complete with live music, good vibes, and plenty of holiday cheer.
Dec. 15
Experience an exciting new show with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra as they arrive in Tampa for their highly-anticipated Winter Tour. With a rock twist on holiday classics and stunning visuals, this is an event you won’t want to miss. There will be two performances at 2:30 PM and 7:00 PM.
Dec. 15
Embrace the holiday spirit with USA TODAY’s Tampa Hot Chocolate Run at the Tampa Convention Center! This delightful event combines fitness and festive cheer as participants of all ages enjoy a scenic run or walk through downtown Tampa. Registration includes delicious hot chocolate, free race photos, an exclusive hot chocolate run jacket, access to the post-run party, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to enjoy the day, this event is a perfect way to celebrate the season.
Dec. 20-23
Join the holiday fun at the 6th Annual Jingle Bell Bazaar at Centennial Park in Historic Ybor City! This festive celebration is filled with joy and community spirit, offering live music, captivating performances, and a variety of delicious food from local food trucks. Explore unique holiday gifts from local vendors and visit Santa's Village for arts and crafts, free face painting, and photos with Santa.
Dec. 20-23
Now a festive Tampa Bay tradition, the family-favorite performance of Nutcracker is back at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts! This performance features NGB's award-winning young dancers as well as guest stars from the American Ballet Theatre. Don’t miss out on this incredible performance, filled with some of ballet’s most famous music!
Dec. 21
On Dec. 21, the Tampa Riverwalk will shimmer with the sparkle of Tampa Bay's largest lighted boat parade. Starting at the southern tip of Davis Islands, the parade cruises through the Convention Center basin and up to the Heights. Then the flotilla will head to Sparkman Wharf for the grand finale, where the best displays will be judged. Stroll the 2.6-mile-long riverside pathway, soak up the spirit of the season, and enjoy a celebration that is uniquely Tampa Bay
Dec. 21
Get the best view of Tampa’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parade on the Pirate Water Taxi for a two-hour joyful voyage on the Hillsborough River. The water taxi is illuminated with twinkling lights for this festive occasion, creating an unforgettable experience filled with holiday cheer and stunning views!