While a blanket of white snow might be absent from the Christmas landscape in the Tampa Bay area, the spirit of the season certainly isn’t. December transforms this vibrant region into a festive wonderland, brimming with dazzling light displays, charming Christmas markets, and a plethora of holiday-themed events. From the shimmering reflections of lighted boats on the Hillsborough River to the enchanting glow of a million twinkling lights in Largo Central Park, there’s a holiday experience waiting for everyone in Things to Do for Christmas in Tampa Bay.
Let’s embark on a journey through some of the most captivating annual events that define the holiday season in the Tampa Bay area:
Tampa Riverwalk Lighted Boat Parade
Imagine the Hillsborough River shimmering under the night sky, not just with its natural beauty, but illuminated by hundreds of boats adorned in festive holiday lights. This is the spectacle of the Tampa Riverwalk Lighted Boat Parade, an annual tradition that captures the essence of Christmas with a unique Tampa Bay twist.
Each year, boat owners unleash their creativity, transforming their vessels into floating works of art. From simple strings of twinkling lights outlining the boat’s silhouette to elaborate displays featuring inflatable Santas, reindeer, and even entire Nativity scenes, the parade is a feast for the eyes. The boats, ranging from small pleasure crafts to larger yachts, cruise along the Riverwalk, their vibrant reflections dancing on the water.
Spectators gather along the Riverwalk, lining the walkways and patios of waterfront restaurants and bars, to witness this dazzling display. The atmosphere is electric, filled with the sounds of Christmas carols, excited chatter, and the occasional boat horn blasting a festive tune. The parade typically takes place in mid-December, offering a perfect opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit with family and friends.
Adding to the magic, be sure to keep an eye out for Tampa Bay’s impressive 35-foot LED Christmas tree, a floating beacon of holiday cheer. This towering tree, adorned with thousands of colorful lights, graces the harbor from late November through New Year’s Day. Its presence transforms the waterfront into a captivating winter wonderland, visible from the Tampa Convention Center and South Harbour Island Boulevard.
Beyond the parade itself, businesses along the Riverwalk contribute to the festive atmosphere with their own lighted displays, creating a magical ambiance that extends throughout the holiday season. A stroll along the Riverwalk during December is a truly enchanting experience, immersing you in the sights and sounds of Christmas in Tampa Bay.
Christmas in the Wild at Lowry Park Zoo
For a unique and unforgettable holiday experience, head to Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo for Christmas in the Wild. This annual event transforms the zoo into a dazzling winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and even a visit from Santa’s reindeer!
Imagine strolling through the zoo at night, surrounded by over a million twinkling lights that illuminate the pathways and create a magical atmosphere. The zoo comes alive with festive cheer, offering a unique perspective on the animal habitats.
One of the highlights of Christmas in the Wild is the opportunity to see Santa’s reindeer up close. These majestic creatures, integral to the magic of Christmas, are a sight to behold. Guests can learn about their natural history and appreciate their role in the holiday season.
In addition to the reindeer, Christmas in the Wild features a walk-through illuminated kaleidoscope, an animated Christmas tree, and, of course, Santa’s Village, where children can meet the jolly man himself and share their Christmas wishes. Photo opportunities abound, allowing families to capture lasting memories of their holiday adventure.
A special bonus of attending Christmas in the Wild is the chance to see some of the zoo animals at night. Many animals are more active during the cooler evening hours, providing a unique and enriching experience for visitors.
Christmas in the Wild is open on select nights from late November through December. Due to its popularity, advanced tickets are necessary to enter, and guests are assigned a specific time window for arrival. This ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.
Let It Snow: A Walk Through Largo’s Central Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the enchanting glow of Let It Snow, a spectacular holiday light display at Largo Central Park. This 70-acre park, located just a half-hour’s drive from Tampa, transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland during the month of December.
Largo Central Park is known for its beautiful rolling grounds and serene fountains, but during the holiday season, it takes on an entirely new dimension. Over one million LED lights are strung across the park, creating a mesmerizing canopy of color that illuminates the walkways and reflects off the water features.
The massive light display creates an atmosphere that is both festive and serene, perfect for a leisurely stroll with family, friends, or loved ones. The twinkling lights evoke a sense of wonder and joy, instantly putting you in the holiday spirit.
Let It Snow is a free event, allowing everyone to experience the magic of the holiday season. While walking among the lights is free, visitors can also enjoy carnival rides for an additional fee, adding to the festive atmosphere. The event runs from late November through January 1st, providing ample opportunity to experience this dazzling display.
Victorian Christmas Stroll
Step back in time and experience the charm and elegance of a Victorian Christmas at the Henry B. Plant Museum’s annual Victorian Christmas Stroll. This unique event transforms the museum into a captivating exhibit of what Christmas in 1891 would have looked like.
The Henry B. Plant Museum, normally dedicated to the life and work of Henry Bradley Plant, undergoes a complete transformation during the holiday season. Fourteen rooms are meticulously decorated with authentic Victorian-era decorations, including lush greenery, intricately adorned Christmas trees, and antique toys and ornaments.
Each room tells a story, offering a glimpse into the traditions and customs of a Victorian Christmas. From the elegant dining room set for a festive feast to the parlor filled with handcrafted decorations, the Victorian Christmas Stroll is a truly immersive experience.
The event runs daily from December 1st to December 23rd, offering ample opportunity to experience this captivating glimpse into the past. This is truly one of the most unique Things to Do for Christmas in Tampa Bay.
Ybor City Tree Lighting Ceremony
Kick off the holiday season early at the annual Ybor City Tree Lighting Ceremony, a free and festive event held at Centro Ybor. This vibrant celebration marks the beginning of the Christmas season in Tampa’s historic Latin Quarter.
The event features a holiday market, where local vendors offer a variety of Christmas-themed gifts and decorations. Live entertainment and carolers fill the air with festive music, while the aroma of hot chocolate and freshly baked cookies adds to the holiday cheer.
The highlight of the evening is the lighting of the Ybor City Christmas tree. At 7 p.m., the switch is flipped, illuminating the tree with thousands of twinkling lights, signaling the official start of the holiday season in Ybor City.
Tarpon Springs Boat Parade
Venture a bit north to Tarpon Springs, about 45 minutes from Tampa, to witness another spectacular lighted boat parade. This charming coastal town celebrates the holiday season with a procession of decorated boats sailing down the Anclote River and into the bayous.
The boats, adorned with festive lights and decorations, create a dazzling spectacle as they cruise along the waterway. Santa Claus even makes an appearance, distributing treats to children along the route.
Spectators gather along Craig Park/Spring Bayou to view the parade. The event is free, and the boats typically depart from Spring Bayou around 6:30 p.m.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens of Tampa Bay
For an all-encompassing holiday extravaganza, look no further than Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. This annual event transforms the theme park into a winter wonderland, complete with millions of twinkling lights, festive shows, and appearances by beloved Christmas characters.
Explore themed villages, each adorned with unique decorations and offering a variety of holiday-themed activities. Enjoy live performances, including ice skating shows and musical productions. Meet Santa Claus and other Christmas characters, including those from the classic TV special "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer."
Christmas Town offers a wide range of shopping and dining options, allowing you to indulge in holiday treats and find the perfect gifts for loved ones. With something for everyone, Christmas Town is the perfect destination for a family-friendly holiday celebration. This is one of the best Things to Do for Christmas in Tampa Bay.
St. Petersburg Holiday of the Arts Show
For a unique and artistic Christmas shopping experience, attend the St. Petersburg Holiday of the Arts Show. This outdoor gallery features original and handmade art from talented artists, offering a diverse selection of paintings, sculptures, jewelry, glass, ceramics, photography, and more.
Consider purchasing handmade art items for those on your Christmas list, offering a truly unique and special gift that will be treasured for years to come.
SantaFest: The Downtown Tampa Christmas Parade
Experience the magic of a traditional Christmas parade at SantaFest, the annual Downtown Tampa Christmas Parade. This festive event transforms Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park into a holiday wonderland, complete with Christmas crafts, free photos with Santa, and live entertainment.
The parade itself features colorful floats, marching bands, and, of course, Santa Claus, as it makes its way down Morgan Street and Madison Street.
Holiday Lights in the Gardens
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature illuminated by millions of twinkling lights at Holiday Lights in the Gardens, an annual event held at the Florida Botanical Gardens.
Walk along the illuminated paths, showcasing the unique flowers and plants of the gardens in a whole new light. Enjoy live nightly entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus. Refreshments and holiday-themed gifts are available at the Gardens’ gift shop.
These are just a few of the many wonderful Things to Do for Christmas in Tampa Bay. With its festive atmosphere, dazzling light displays, and abundance of holiday-themed events, Tampa Bay is the perfect place to celebrate the magic of Christmas.
