Festive + Family-Friendly
Holiday Happenings
Around Tampa Bay
The holidays in Tampa Bay arrive with twinkle lights on palm trees, crisp evenings, and a full lineup of family-friendly events that make the season feel magical. From waterfront celebrations to classic traditions, here are the can’t-miss festivities happening across the region.
Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park — Downtown Tampa
An annual favorite featuring outdoor ice skating, holiday markets, movie nights on the lawn, and cozy tented “igloos” overlooking the river. A perfect downtown evening experience for all ages.
www.wintervillagetampa.com
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens — Tampa
The park transforms into a festive wonderland with expanded light displays, holiday shows, meet-and-greets, and the beloved “Santa’s North Pole Experience.” Ideal for families who want holiday magic mixed with thrills.
www.buschgardens.com/tampa/events/christmas-town
River of Lights Cruise — Tampa Riverwalk
A scenic holiday cruise along the Hillsborough River featuring illuminated bridges, waterfront displays, and narrated holiday stories. Kids love spotting the lights from the water.
www.piratewatertaxi.com/special-event/river-of-lights
Holiday Lights in the Gardens — Largo
The Florida Botanical Gardens light up with themed vignettes, walk-through tunnels, picturesque displays, and local food vendors. A long-standing Pinellas tradition with a strong community feel.
www.flbgfoundation.org/holidaylights
Snowcat Ridge – Dade City
Snowcat Ridge brings alpine fun to Florida with a real snow park, icy slopes, snow tubing, and a glowing nighttime arctic village. Plenty of family fun to be had with various winter wonderland adventures.
www.snowcatridge.com
Christmas in the Wild — ZooTampa
Seasonal lights, festive wildlife encounters, cookie decorating, roving characters, and surprise “snow” moments make this one of ZooTampa’s most charming annual events.
www.zootampa.org/events/christmas-in-the-wild
St. Pete Pier Holiday Festival & Tree Lighting — St. Petersburg
A massive waterfront tree, live entertainment, local vendors, rides, and sweeping views of the bay. The Pier becomes an open-air holiday playground for families.
www.atasteofthenorth.com
North Straub Park & Vinoy Park Holiday Lights — Downtown St. Pete
Ideal for a post-dinner stroll. Both parks glow with classic light displays, decorated pathways, and waterfront charm.
www.stpeteparksrec.org/programs___events/events/holidayevents.php
SnowFest — St. Petersburg
A true Florida novelty featuring real snow, toboggan slides, crafts, bounce houses, and entertainment. A high-energy, one-day event that families look forward to every year.
www.anc.apm.activecommunities.com/stpete/activity/
Happy Holidays from METRO!
