HAPPY HOLIDAYS TAMPA BAY! It is the most wonderful time of the year, especially here in Tampa Bay. We’ve curated our perfect list of holiday activities in our magical town.
Busch Gardens Christmas Town
Busch Gardens is a Tampa Bay staple; of course, they bring the holiday spirit. Enjoy your favorite rides and enjoy Busch Gardens’ beautiful holiday decor after dark. Opposite their event, Hallowscream, Christmas Town lights up the darkness with holiday cheer. This event will leave the whole family satisfied. The adults will enjoy indulging in holiday treats and spirited cocktails, while the little ones can enjoy the twinkling lights, rides, and holiday characters from Sesame Street.
Snow Days at Florida Aquarium
Are you dreaming of a White Christmas? The Florida Aquarium has your back! Snow Days at the Florida Aquarium has immersive snow experiences. Get lost in a snow maze, get chilly in a snowball fight, and get funky at the Winter Wonderland Dance Party. Don’t forget to visit the penguins and otters; they are equally excited about the snow!
Winter Village Express
If you have not had a chance to experience Tampa’s Trolley, now is the time! This trolley transforms into the Winter Village Express, lit with lights and holiday spirit during the holiday season. Enjoy the sights of Tampa from Downtown to the Historic Ybor District, and enjoy carols, cookies, and milk while you venture. This experience requires a ticket; make your reservations online today!
Enchant Christmas at the Tropicana
Now-January 1st
I am passionate about Enchant Christmas at Tropicana Field. This place is a winter wonderland; They have everything; reindeer, snow, ice skating, a scavenger hunt, hot chocolate, spirited beverages for adults, and a plethora of vendors to grab some last-minute holiday presents from. They have multiple options for food, so even your pickiest eater will find something they love. This event brings the holiday magic back!
Curtis Hixon Winter Village
The Curtis Hixon Winter Village is one of Tampa’s most-known holiday events. Enjoy a walk around Curtis Hixon, the decorated boats sailing by on the Hillsborough River, the reflective lights from the Art Museum, the giant Christmas Trees, and the outdoor skating rink! Tickets are required for the outdoor skating rink, which is pretty tiny compared to most ice skating rinks. My tip is to grab an early dinner downtown and beat the rush to the skating rink! Make your reservations early!
Lighted Boat Parade
December 17
Last but certainly not least, the Lighted Boat Parade on the Hillsborough River. Tampa natives line the Riverwalk, post up on their docks, and enjoy the creativity of our town! Watch as individual’s boats float down the river, decked out in holiday gear and usually yelling carols. This is another event suitable for the whole family. Who knows, in Tampa, you might even see a Holiday Pirate!