Tampa Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Winter Village Tampa, transforming Curtis Hixon Park into a festive wonderland. Glide across the ice at the spectacular outdoor rink, discover unique treasures from local artisans in charming shops, and savor delicious seasonal treats. Enjoy dazzling light displays, live ice shows, and...

Set sail on Tampa's most festive cruise, the River of Lights! This magical 45-minute journey glides along the Hillsborough River, showcasing twinkling holiday lights and charming waterfront decorations. Kids can write letters to Santa and deliver them to a unique floating mail buoy, plus visit a special elf for a...

Experience the magic of Tampa's Santa Fest & Tree Lighting! This beloved holiday tradition kicks off with a festive parade, followed by a spectacular tree lighting ceremony in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Enjoy live entertainment, dazzling dancers, and a special holiday movie screening. It's the perfect way to embrace the...

Celebrate the holiday season with YuleTides at The Florida Aquarium, a new festive tradition. Families can capture magical moments with Santa and his reindeer, marvel at a towering upcycled YuleTides tree, and enjoy unique underwater entertainment featuring costumed divers. It's a whimsical way to experience the magic of the holidays...

ZooTampa transforms into a winter wonderland for Christmas in the Wild, featuring one of Tampa Bay's largest light displays. Guests can enjoy delectable holiday treats, amazing wildlife, and new festive adventures. This popular event promises a brighter, bigger, and better experience for the entire family.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay transforms into a dazzling holiday wonderland for Christmas Town, the park's award-winning event. Experience the magic with millions of twinkling lights, festive entertainment, and beloved characters like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Indulge in seasonal culinary delights and enjoy the park's thrilling rides and attractions, all while...

Immerse yourself in a magical winter wonderland at Nights of Shimmering Lights. Wander through a quarter-mile walking trail adorned with dancing lights synchronized to festive music. Discover themed areas, including a serene Winterland, a meaningful Nativity scene, and a cheerful Christmas zone with Santa and his reindeer. Enjoy outdoor movies...

Immerse yourself in a dazzling holiday wonderland at the Tampa Bay Festival of Lights & Santa's Village. This expanded event features over 1.5 million lights, a nearly 2-mile drive-thru light spectacular with an animated tunnel, and a festive Santa's Village. Enjoy themed rides, visits with Santa, holiday treats, and special...

Experience the magic of the holidays at Largo Central Park's spectacular light display, featuring over 2.5 million dazzling LED lights. This family-friendly tradition invites visitors to stroll through the park, enjoying the festive atmosphere. For added excitement, amusement rides like a carousel and Ferris wheel are available, alongside market vendors...

Step into a festive wonderland at the Annual Holiday Tour of Homes in Dunedin. This cherished event showcases the historical charm of downtown homes, adorned in their holiday finest. Browse unique artisan crafts and enjoy a delightful tea, all while supporting the Dunedin Youth Guild's mission to assist local youth.

Experience the magic of Winter Wonderland, a beloved holiday village and charity drive in downtown Clearwater. Since 1993, this event has brought families together with twinkling lights, real pine trees, and joyful cheer, all while supporting local children in need. Enjoy a lively entertainment stage, photos with Santa, cookie decorating,...

Get ready for a jolly good time at the Palm Harbor Christmas Extravaganza! Kick off the season with a dazzling Christmas Parade, followed by the show-stopping Downtown Palm Harbor Christmas Tree Lighting. Enjoy vibrant vendors, exciting games, a magical countdown, and a special visit from Santa. Delicious food and drinks...

Join the community for the 27th annual Lights of Love Tree Lighting Ceremony in downtown Plant City. This cherished tradition kicks off the holiday season with the illumination of a 25-foot Christmas tree, adorned with lights purchased in honor or memory of loved ones. Enjoy live holiday music and a...

Step into a winter wonderland at Holiday Lights in the Gardens, a beloved annual fundraiser. Wander through enchanting pathways illuminated by over a million twinkling LED lights and captivating festive figures. This spectacular display transforms the Florida Botanical Gardens into a magical holiday experience for all ages.

Step into a magical holiday season at the historic Tampa Theatre. Experience beloved Christmas films on the big screen, from timeless classics like 'It's a Wonderful Life' to fun-filled favorites such as 'Elf'. Sing along to carols with the Mighty Wurlitzer organ before select showings. For a different vibe, catch...

Join Jack Hartmann for his 4th Annual Christmas Concert, a vibrant musical event designed to make learning fun. This engaging performance features educational songs that captivate young audiences with catchy tunes and lively movements. It's a perfect opportunity for families to enjoy a festive and educational experience together.

Immerse yourself in the timeless holiday classic, The Nutcracker, presented by Next Generation Ballet. This enchanting production brings the beloved story to life with stunning choreography, dazzling costumes, and the unforgettable music of Tchaikovsky. Follow Clara's magical adventure as she journeys through a winter wonderland to the Land of Sweets,...

Prepare to be enchanted by Cirque Dreams Holidaze, a spectacular holiday show that transforms the stage into a winter wonderland. This unique production features a cast of talented acrobats, jugglers, and aerialists performing breathtaking feats. It's a dazzling fusion of circus artistry and holiday magic, perfect for creating unforgettable festive...

Get ready for a spectacular holiday celebration with 'A Drag Queen Christmas'! This dazzling show brings together a cast of beloved drag queens for an unforgettable evening of festive cheer, music, and comedy. Prepare for stunning costumes, high-energy performances, and a truly unique holiday experience that's sure to sparkle.

Immerse yourself in the magic of the season with The Florida Orchestra's Holiday Pops concert. This beloved tradition features a spectacular program of holiday favorites, including enchanting selections from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker, the whimsical sounds of The Polar Express, and the triumphant Hallelujah Chorus from Handel's Messiah. Conducted by Chelsea Gallo...

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with The Florida Orchestra's annual Holiday Pops concert. This beloved tradition features a joyous program of festive favorites, including selections from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker, The Polar Express, and Handel's Messiah. Conducted by Chelsea Gallo and featuring the magnificent Master Chorale of Tampa Bay, it's the...

Experience the magic of Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol' at Carrollwood Players. This beloved holiday classic follows Ebenezer Scrooge's spectral encounters and his journey to embrace the spirit of Christmas. Perfect for the whole family, the production promises Victorian splendor, warmth, and a heartwarming message about love and kindness.

Get ready for a festive holiday celebration with Rockapella's Christmas show. This acclaimed vocal group is known for their innovative arrangements and energetic performances, promising an evening of holiday cheer and musical delight.

Get swept away by the glorious sounds of the St. Pete Opera's Holiday Sparkle 2025. This grand holiday concert features a magnificent 40-piece orchestra and talented singers performing a heartwarming selection of popular sacred and secular holiday favorites. It's the perfect way to share the season's joy with family and...

The timeless holiday television special, 'A Charlie Brown Christmas,' comes alive on stage at the Duke Energy Center for the Arts – Mahaffey Theater. This beloved production features Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the entire Peanuts gang as they discover the true meaning of Christmas. Enjoy songs from Vince Guaraldi's unforgettable...

Experience the timeless holiday tradition of Handel's Messiah, a powerful and joyous celebration of the season. Conducted by Music Director Michael Francis and featuring the acclaimed Master Chorale of Tampa Bay, this iconic performance will uplift your spirit with its soaring choruses and moving arias. It's a cherished masterpiece that...

Celebrate the holiday season at Winter Village in Tampa's Curtis Hixon Park. This festive event transforms the downtown waterfront with holiday cheer, featuring an ice skating rink, unique shops, and delicious food and drinks. It's a perfect destination for families and individuals to enjoy the spirit of the season.

The 7th Annual Jingle Bell Bazaar returns to Centennial Park in Ybor City for a day of festive holiday cheer. Attendees can enjoy live music from three bands, browse unique gifts from local vendors, and visit Santa's Village for crafts and photos with Santa. This free, family-friendly event promises joy...

Step back in time for an old-fashioned country Christmas at Cracker Country. This immersive event brings the holiday traditions of the 19th century to life with historical interpretations, carols, and authentic decorations. Visitors can create their own festive keepsakes, try pioneer chores, and explore 13 original buildings adorned for the...

Get into the holiday spirit at the Hoppy Christmas Market! This festive event brings together local artisans and craft breweries for an afternoon of cheer. Discover unique gifts, enjoy delicious craft brews, and soak in the joyful holiday atmosphere. It's the perfect place to find special presents and enjoy seasonal...

Discover the Palm Harbor Florida Craft Festival, a premier event showcasing over 100 talented artisans. Explore a diverse collection of original, handcrafted goods perfect for holiday gifting and home decor. This vibrant festival offers a unique opportunity to connect with artists and find one-of-a-kind treasures in the charming setting of...

Experience the magic of Holiday RiverFest 2025, a vibrant riverside celebration in Tampa. This event features live music from country artists and DJs, a dedicated kids' craft zone, and the highly anticipated wiener dog race. Attendees can enjoy fantastic views of the Riverwalk Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, with exclusive VIP...

Join fellow FIU Panthers in Tampa for a festive holiday celebration. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with alumni, reminisce, and raise a toast to the season. Enjoy drinks, heavy hors d'oeuvres, and exciting giveaways in a fun and spirited atmosphere.

Ring in the New Year aboard a festive cruise, offering unparalleled front-row views of Tampa's spectacular fireworks display. This 1-hour journey on the water provides a magical way to celebrate the arrival of the New Year, complete with breathtaking views of the city's skyline.

Step into a bygone era at the Henry B. Plant Museum for their Victorian Christmas Stroll. This event transforms the historic museum into a festive wonderland, showcasing the elegance and charm of Christmas as it was celebrated in the Victorian age. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this unique...

Embark on a magical journey aboard the Winter Village Express, a special themed ride on the historic TECO Line Streetcar. This festive event offers a unique way to experience the holiday season with onboard treats, music, and engaging activities. It's a delightful, non-stop adventure perfect for creating lasting holiday memories.

Experience Tampa's most magical holiday tradition at the Holiday Lighted Boat Parade. Witness a dazzling spectacle as decorated boats illuminate the Hillsborough River. Enjoy free viewing along the Riverwalk or opt for a VIP experience at Sparkman Wharf. This event promises a festive evening for all.

Capture cherished holiday memories with a visit to Santa Claus at International Plaza and Bay Street. This popular event offers families the chance to take professional photos with Santa in a festive setting. It's a quintessential holiday tradition for creating lasting keepsakes.

Celebrate the joy and hope of the Christmas season at The Crossing Church's special Christmas Eve services. They offer a chance to connect and enjoy what truly matters, with welcoming environments for families across Tampa and Central Florida. Experience meaningful moments and festive cheer, culminating in a beautiful candlelight service...

Step into a world of scientific wonder at Santa's Scientific Workshop! This engaging event at MOSI offers a unique blend of holiday cheer and scientific exploration. Visitors can immerse themselves in over 50,000 square feet of hands-on exhibits, catch captivating shows at the Saunders Planetarium, and enjoy outdoor attractions. It's...

All aboard for a magical journey with The Polar Express Experience! This enchanting event brings the beloved holiday story to life, offering a captivating adventure for all ages. Prepare to be transported into a world of wonder and festive cheer as they recreate the magic of the classic tale.

Get ready for St. Petersburg's beloved Santa Parade and Tree Lighting, marking the official start of the holiday season. This vibrant event features a dazzling illuminated parade along the downtown waterfront, followed by a magical tree lighting ceremony. Throughout the city, enjoy festive light displays, holiday movies in the park,...

The City of St. Petersburg invites everyone to celebrate the holiday season with its annual 'Holidays in the Sunshine City' event series. This festive celebration features a dazzling array of holiday lights and decorations along the waterfront, enchanting movies in the park with family-friendly activities, and opportunities to meet Santa...

Get into the holiday spirit at Reindeer Lane, a delightful family event hosted at the Countryside Recreation Center. This free community gathering offers a festive atmosphere with engaging games, creative crafts, and memorable photo opportunities. Don't miss the special appearance by Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for...

Discover a variety of festive holiday events happening in and around Land O' Lakes, Florida. From Christmas celebrations to New Year's Eve festivities, find seasonal activities to enjoy.

The Plant City Christmas Parade brings holiday cheer to the community with a vibrant procession of floats and participants. This beloved event is a wonderful opportunity for families and friends to gather and celebrate the festive season together. Experience the joy and excitement as the parade winds through Plant City.

Step back in time at Dunedin's Old-Fashioned Christmas & Holiday Parade! This beloved event transforms downtown into a winter wonderland with snow flurries, horse-drawn carriage rides, and festive carols. Enjoy a spectacular parade, then delight in old-fashioned games, crafts, and a giant snow slide. Don't miss the chance to meet...

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Carols By Candlelight, a special Christmas concert presented by the Chapel Choir. This enchanting event features beautiful anthems and beloved caroling favorites, promising an evening filled with festive cheer. Following the performance, guests can enjoy a delightful wine and cheese reception.

The 36th Annual Tarpon Springs Holiday Boat Parade lights up the Anclote River and bayous with a dazzling display of decorated vessels. Vessels proceed down the river, creating a festive spectacle for all to enjoy from prime viewing spots. Trophies are awarded to the best-decorated boats, adding a competitive spirit...

Join the City of Tarpon Springs and the Chamber of Commerce for their annual Christmas Parade. This beloved, family-friendly event showcases the community's spirit with over 75 local organizations participating. It's a festive celebration of the holiday season.