It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Tampa – and it’s hard to keep up with all the major events happening around town. We’ve put together a quick list of the major holiday events you need to have on your radar.
Check out our Holiday Market Guide, and our Thanksgiving Guide for holiday season inspiration.
Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa
November 24-December 23: 4pm-10pm
December 26-30: 4pm-9pm
General admission: $29.95
1101 W Sligh Avenue
2023 ZooTampa is loading the most wonderful time of the year with new spectacular surprises. Christmas in the Wild officially runs on 19 select nights from November 24 through December 30. Among the biggest additions to the event this year are larger-than-life illuminated animal sculptures. The Zoo’s Ituri Pass pathway will also be lined with interactive lighted Christmas wreaths. Guests can enjoy rock ‘n’ roll versions of Christmas carols as they walk through the gorgeous display.
Busch Gardens Christmas Town
November 11-January 7
Available from open to close
Included with general park admission
10165 McKinley Dr
Winter Village Curtis Hixon Park
November 17-January 1
Multiple events, markets, and ice rink times
Learn more on the Winter Village website
600 N Ashley Dr
This new annual tradition includes a huge skating rink, a hot chocolate bar, igloo lounges, a mini holiday market, curling courts and so much more along the Tampa waterfront.
Water Street Tampa Season Spectacular
November 17
5pm-9pm
FREE to attend
Parking at 1045 E Cumblerand Ave
Hyde Park Village Holiday Extravaganza
November 16
5pm-9pm
FREE to attend
1602 W Snow Avenue
Tampa Theatre presents Holiday Classics
November 26-January 7
Multiple showtimes; tickets available online
711 N Franklin Street
A celebration of the most endearing holiday family favorites will return to the big screen at Tampa Theatre. This includes The Grinch, It’s a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street, Christmas Vacation and more.
City of Tampa Tree Lighting & Santa Fest
December 2
Parade steps off at 1pm beginning at Morgan Street and Madison Street
Santa Fest: 1pm-4pm
Tree Lighting: 6:30pm
600 N Ashley Drive
Winter Wonder Wharf
November 17: Tree Lighting
December 2: Mistletones and Beatboxers
December 9: Rapping Carolers
December 16: LaRon Hearst Violinist and Family
615 Channelside Drive
Ybor City Tree Lighting
November 15
6pm-8pm
1600 E 7th Avenue
Pirate Water Taxi: River of Lights
Select nights from November 26-December 24
Cruises at 6:15pm, 7:15pm, 8:15pm, 9:15pm
$25 for kids, $35 for adults
Pirate Water Taxi Stop 7 – behind the Tampa Convention Center
Tampa Lighted Boat Parade
December 23
Begins at 6pm
Runs from Sparkman Wharf to Armature Works
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