As the holiday season lights up Tampa Bay, the area comes alive with festive events, dazzling boat parades and holiday markets filled with seasonal treats and gifts. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. Dive into our guide to the best holiday happenings in Tampa Bay and make the season unforgettable!
Christmas Town
November 15 – January 5, 2025
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Experience the magic of the season at Busch Gardens Christmas Town! Gather with family and friends to celebrate, creating joyful memories among nearly 70 miles of sparkling lights. Savor new holiday-inspired dishes and meet beloved characters like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Enjoy Tampa Bay’s longest-running holiday celebration, only at Busch Gardens Christmas Town!
Holiday Extravaganza
November 21, 2024
Hyde Park Village
On November 21, Hyde Park Village hosts its Holiday Happening from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., featuring a 7 p.m. tree lighting ceremony. Enjoy live music, aerial performances, face painting, magic acts and a visit from Santa. Seasonal treats will be available from local eateries and food trucks, and Hyde Park’s shops offer a variety of unique gifts. A portion of the evening’s proceeds will benefit The Children’s Dream Fund.
Winter Village
November 22 – January 5, 2025
Curtis Hixon Park
Celebrate the holiday season at Winter Village in Tampa’s Downtown, presented by the Tampa Bay Lightning in Curtis Hixon Park! Nestled along the Tampa Riverwalk, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park transforms into a festive wonderland with the sights, sounds and activities of the holidays for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for family fun, seasonal treats or a joyful atmosphere, Winter Village has something for everyone to enjoy.
Victorian Christmas Stroll
November 23 – December 31
Henry B. Plant Museum
The 43rd Annual Victorian Christmas Stroll returns, offering a magical glimpse into Christmases past. Running from November 23 to December 31, this cherished tradition at the Plant Museum features themed displays, antique trees, vintage Santas and intricate holiday decor that blend nostalgia and wonder. The museum will be open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Friday-Sunday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Tickets are available starting November.
Unchant: Christmas with a Florida Twist
November 25 – January 13, 2025
FloridaRAMA
This unique holiday event blends festive cheer with Florida flair, featuring dazzling lights, coastal-inspired decorations and interactive displays that capture the Sunshine State’s spirit. Perfect for all ages, enjoy the season with a splash of Florida fun.
Tampa Bay Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village
November 28 – December 29, 2024
Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
This enchanting experience features over a million lights that create a magical atmosphere from entrance to exit. Drive nearly two miles through a wonderland of continuous light displays, then explore Santa’s Village on foot with attractions, holiday treats and visits with Santa himself!
Christmas in the Wild
November 29 – December 23, 2024
ZooTampa at Lowry Park
Celebrate the holidays at ZooTampa’s Christmas in the Wild, a Tampa family favorite, nominated by USA Today’s 10Best for Best Zoo Lights. Starting November 29 and running select nights through December 23, this year’s event is bigger and brighter than ever. Enjoy dazzling animal sculptures, festive light shows, special wildlife encounters, holiday treats and a visit with Santa! Christmas in the Wild is free for members and Pay For a Day ticket holders; general admission after 4 p.m. is $29.95.
Holiday Lights in the Garden
November 29 – January 4, 2025
Florida Botanical Gardens
Running nightly from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., the Florida Botanical Gardens’ winter fundraiser will dazzle guests with over one million colorful LED lights, vibrant lasers and lighted figures. The new Majeed Discovery Garden adds an exciting feature to this beloved event.
Deck the Walls
November 29 – January 5, 2025
FloridaRAMA
Celebrate the season at “Deck the Walls!” This holiday event showcases stunning wall displays, creative art installations and festive decorations that bring the holiday spirit to life. Perfect for all ages, it’s a unique, artful way to experience the magic of the season!
YuleTides at The Florida Aquarium
November 29 – January 5, 2025
The Florida Aquarium
This immersive celebration, inspired by coastal holiday traditions worldwide, runs from November 29, 2024, through January 5, 2025 (excluding December 25), and is included with general admission. Each weekend, guests can enjoy special events and activities designed to blend marine life, conservation and holiday cheer.
The Heights District Seventh Annual Holiday Tree Lighting
November 30, 2024
Armature Works
The Heights District’s 7th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration at Armature Works takes place on Saturday, November 30, starting at 5 p.m. The event features live performances, a holiday market and a visit from Santa, with the tree lighting at 7 p.m. on the front lawn. Seasonal drinks, gifts and food will be available for purchase. Additionally, the Toy Drive benefiting Toys for Tots runs from November 16 to December 15 at Heights Market, collecting new, unwrapped toys for children in need.
Riverwalk Tree Lighting
December 1, 2024
Tampa Convention Center
Celebrate the season with Friends of the Riverwalk at the 4th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting! From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Tampa Convention Center and The Sail Plaza, watch as Mayor Castor sails aboard a Pirate Water Taxi to light up the Riverwalk Holiday Trees. Kick off the holidays with festive food, family fun, and live entertainment along Tampa’s beautiful Riverwalk.
Santa’s Scientific Workshop
December 14, 2024
MOSI
Experience a magical blend of holiday cheer and hands-on fun at MOSI! Bring the whole family to meet Santa, share your holiday wishes or send a letter to the North Pole through MOSI’s special mailbox. Get cozy with warm hot chocolate and decorate your own holiday cookies while enjoying festive music and treats. Perfect for all ages, this event will bring out the Christmas spirit in everyone. Don’t miss the fun from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The Nutcracker High Tea
Saturday, December 14; 2 p.m.- 4 p.m.
The Vinoy Resort and Golf Club
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
December 21, 2024
Tampa’s largest lighted boat parade takes place on Saturday, December 21, at 6:15 p.m. along the Hillsborough River. Starting at Davis Islands, the parade passes through the Convention Center basin, up to the Heights and ends at Sparkman Wharf, where judging and prizes await all registered boats.
Looking for a full list of events? Check out our 2024-25 Events Calendar. Or if you’re looking to advertise with us, click here.
