🎄 Holiday Events Happening Around the Tampa Bay Area

The most magical time of year is here, and Tampa Bay is sparkling with twinkling lights, festive parades, and family-friendly celebrations! Whether you’re looking to stroll beneath palm trees wrapped in lights, watch boats decked out for the holidays, or experience theme park magic with a Christmas twist, there’s something for everyone this season.

Here are some of the top holiday events lighting up the Tampa Bay area this year:

🚤 Holiday Lighted Boat Parade (Tampa Riverwalk)

📅 Saturday, December 20, 2025 – 6:15 p.m.
The Tampa Riverwalk transforms into a glittering waterfront celebration as boats of all shapes and sizes sail down the Hillsborough River glowing with festive lights. Bring the family, grab a cozy spot along the Riverwalk or Sparkman Wharf, and enjoy the parade’s reflections dancing on the water — it’s truly a Tampa tradition!

🦓 Christmas in the Wild (ZooTampa at Lowry Park)

📅 Select nights in November & December (through December 30)
Experience the wild side of Christmas at ZooTampa! Wander through dazzling light displays, visit Santa’s workshop, and sip hot cocoa while meeting some of the zoo’s incredible animals. This event blends holiday cheer with animal magic, creating a memory-making adventure perfect for families with little ones.

🎢 Christmas Town (Busch Gardens Tampa Bay)

📅 November 15 – January 5, 2025
Busch Gardens goes full North Pole with millions of twinkling lights, festive shows, and holiday-themed rides. From Santa’s House to the Holly Jolly Express, Christmas Town offers something special for everyone — thrill-seekers and holiday lovers alike.

🎅 Tampa’s Santa Fest & Tree Lighting

📅 Saturday, December 6, 2025
📍 Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park (600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa)
Kick off December with Santa’s grand arrival, a holiday parade through downtown, and a beautiful tree lighting at Curtis Hixon Park. The whole event is filled with music, entertainment, and that warm community holiday spirit that makes Tampa Bay shine brightest this time of year.

✨ Make the Most of the Season

Tampa Bay truly comes alive during the holidays — from the waterfront lights to the festive parks and parades, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. Grab your loved ones, a cup of cocoa, and make some merry memories around town.

Wishing you a bright and joyful holiday season from all of us at The Tampa Bay Duo – Lindsey Dalla & Becky Billeci, Impact Realty Tampa Bay!