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.
BUSCH GARDENS® TAMPA BAY – CHRISTMAS TOWN
Nov. 11, 2023 – Jan. 7, 2024
Millions of twinkling lights illuminate the night at Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay during Christmas Town. Experience Florida’s most thrilling rides after dark, indulge in seasonal food and drink, and explore a world of fantastically festive live entertainment, including Christmas On Ice and a chance to meet the little one’s favorite Sesame Street characters.
CURTIS HIXON PARK – WINTER VILLAGE
Nov. 17, 2023 – Jan. 1, 2024
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, discover seasonal shopping, or hop aboard the Winter Village Express for a merry journey through downtown, complete with onboard cookies and milk!
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS – FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Nov. 23, 2023 – Dec. 31, 2023
With presentations representing Christmas, Hannukah, and Kwanzaa, the Festival of Lights enchants visitors in its wintery wonderland of more than one million lights. It features a two-mile drive-thru of twinkling displays and fun Florida-themed displays. You can also experience Santa’s Village filled with fun rides, a winter market, and the Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village.
ZOOTAMPA – CHRISTMAS IN THE WILD
Select Nights Nov. – Dec. 2023
Christmas in the Wild returns bigger, better, and more joyful than ever this year at ZooTampa. Immerse yourself in six different festive realms, see incredible shows, explore the Twinkletown Marketplace, and get up close and personal with ZooTampa’s exotic wildlife for a family-friendly Christmas experience unlike any other.
LEGOLAND FLORIDA RESORT – HOLIDAY SEASON
Nov. 24 – Dec. 31, 2023
Enjoy family-friendly rides and attractions, rock around the giant LEGO tree, and ring in the new year with spectacular fireworks that light up the night sky: a truly brick-tacular celebration that will dazzle and delight any LEGO fans!
TROPICANA FIELD – ENCHANT CHRISTMAS
Nov. 24 – Dec. 31, 2023
Imagine illuminated lands, sparkling tunnels, and ice skating complete with a magnificent 100-foot-tall Christmas tree that spreads the season’s spirit all around. You can transport yourself to this holiday wonderland in an all-new story-themed festive light maze, where Santa’s magical timepiece enchants you.
TAMPA RIVERWALK – HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR &TREE LIGHTING
Make your way to the iconic Tampa Riverwalk for the start of the holiday celebrations as a 35-foot-tall floating Christmas tree is ceremonially illuminated for the first time of the season! The festivities continue through January 2024 with engaging activities, floating light displays, and even a floating gingerbread display for all to enjoy.
THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM – SNOW DAYS
Dec. 26-30, 2023
Snow in Florida? You heard that right! Get some gloves and experience a week full of winter festivities and hands-on snow fun. Activities include a snow maze, snowball toss, Winter Wonderland Dance Party, and much more. There will be different performances throughout the week.
YACHT STARSHIP – HOLIDAY CRUISES
Select Dates in Dec. 2023
Yacht Starship will host holiday cruises including Ugly Sweater Brunch Cruises, Santa Brunch Cruises, Christmas Eve Cruises, and a New Year’s Eve Cruise. Wear your best ugly sweater, get pictures with Santa, and ring in the Holidays as you cruise the waterways of Tampa Bay.