As autumn arrives in Tampa Bay, the city lights up with festive lights and holiday displays. You can see professional light installations at famous spots and neighborhood lights that bring joy. This guide will take you on a magical journey of Christmas cheer in Tampa.
Picture walking through Busch Gardens, turned into a winter wonderland1. Busch Gardens Christmas Town opens from November 11, 2023, to January 7, 20242. Or visit the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds for the1 Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village, with over 1 million lights2. Don’t miss the1 Enchant Christmas Light Maze Adventure, a fourth-year wonder, where you can get lost in a light-filled maze.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a variety of professional light displays and holiday events in Tampa, Florida
- Explore enchanting light exhibits at popular attractions like Busch Gardens and the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
- Experience the magic of the Enchant Christmas Light Maze Adventure, now in its fourth year
- Enjoy festive celebrations in downtown Tampa, St. Petersburg, and surrounding neighborhoods
- Find information on family-friendly festivities, sparkling water displays, and holiday traditions across the Tampa Bay region
Enchanting Christmas Light Displays in Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay turns into a winter wonderland during the holidays. It offers many magical Christmas light displays. From Busch Gardens Christmas Town to the Enchant Christmas Light Maze, there’s something for everyone.
Busch Gardens Christmas Town
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town is a top spot for holiday fun. It runs from November 11, 2023 to January 7, 2024. The park is filled with lights, traditions, and fun for families.
Guests can enjoy rides and shows with a holiday twist. They can visit Santa’s workshop and meet Rudolph and his friends. Fireworks light up the sky on select nights, making it a magical place.
Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village at Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds host the Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights and Santa’s Village. It runs from November 23, 2023 to December 31, 2023. Visitors can see over 1 million lights on a 2-mile drive.
The Santa’s Village has holiday rides, a Holiday Market, and the Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village. There’s Santa, craft stations, camel rides, and live entertainment for endless fun.3
Enchant Christmas Light Maze Adventure at Tropicana Field
Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg becomes a winter wonderland for Enchant Christmas. It runs from November 24 to December 31, 2023. Guests can explore the world’s largest Christmas light maze and skate on a lighted trail. They can also visit Santa and shop at local markets. This year’s story follows Santa’s reindeer friends as they search for magic sleigh bells.3
| Event | Dates | Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Enchant Christmas in Tampa Bay | November 24 – December 31 | Tickets start at $30 for general admission3 |
| Festival of Lights + Santa’s Village at Hillsborough Fairgrounds | November 23 – December 31 | $25 per carload with admission for up to 8 people4 |
Downtown Tampa’s Sparkling Holiday Celebrations
Tampa’s downtown area turns into a winter wonderland during the holidays. It’s filled with festive events and displays that light up the city. You can enjoy the Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park, the Holiday Spectacular on the Tampa Riverwalk, and the Water Street Tampa Season Spectacular. These events offer a lot of holiday fun in downtown Tampa.
Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
The Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
The park is filled with festive lights and decorations. Visitors can ice skate while enjoying views of the Riverwalk4.
The Shops of Winter Village have local boutiques. The Icicle Craft Kitchen offers seasonal treats. It’s a top spot for holiday cheer in Tampa.
Holiday Spectacular on the Tampa Riverwalk
The Tampa Riverwalk becomes a winter wonderland with the Holiday Spectacular from November 27, 2023, to January 1, 2024. Highlights include a 35-foot-tall LED Christmas tree and a holiday selfie station. There’s also a floating gingerbread light display and a lighted pine tree forest.
Hotels, restaurants, and bars along the Riverwalk have festive lighted displays. This creates a magical atmosphere for strolling and enjoying the holiday season.
Water Street Tampa Season Spectacular
The Water Street Tampa neighborhood hosts its second Season Spectacular on November 17, 2023. It features photos with Santa, live music, and seasonal treats. There’s also a tree lighting for a 35-foot Christmas tree at Sparkman Wharf.
Throughout the holiday season, Water Street is lit up with over 300,000 lights. It’s a great backdrop for special events like the Holiday Promenade night market on December 7th.
“The Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park, the Holiday Spectacular on the Tampa Riverwalk, and the Water Street Tampa Season Spectacular are must-visit destinations that capture the essence of the holiday season in downtown Tampa, Florida.”
christmas lights tampa: Neighborhood Showcases
As the holiday season nears, Tampa’s neighborhoods light up with stunning Christmas lights. Places like Chick-fil-A on Waters Avenue and the Temple Terrace Drive-Bay Lights Display show the true spirit of Christmas. These displays are a big hit with both locals and visitors.
Chick-fil-A on Waters Avenue
The Chick-fil-A on Waters Avenue turns into a winter wonderland every year. It’s covered in twinkling Christmas lights5. Families from all over Tampa flock to see it, enjoying the festive atmosphere and the magic of the season.
Temple Terrace Drive-Bay Lights Display
The Temple Terrace neighborhood is famous for its holiday lights, and the Drive-Bay Lights Display is a highlight6. Starting on December 1st, the community puts on a dazzling light show. You can listen to music on a special radio station while driving through, making it a memorable experience.
These displays show the holiday spirit in Tampa, giving everyone a chance to enjoy the season. Whether walking through Chick-fil-A’s lights or driving through the Temple Terrace show, these events are unforgettable. They add to the joy of the holidays in Tampa.
Illuminated Events Beyond the City Limits
The Tampa Bay area is famous for its holiday lights. But, the magic goes beyond the city. You must see Christmas Lane in Plant City and the Raprager Family Farms Winter Festival in Odessa.
Christmas Lane in Plant City
The Florida Strawberry Festival fairgrounds in Plant City turn into a winter wonderland for Christmas Lane. It runs from November 24 to December 24, 20247. You’ll see 1.5 million lights on 200 Christmas trees, from 4 to 40 feet tall.
There’s more than just lights. Enjoy rides, food, live shows, and meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Rudolph.
Raprager Family Farms Winter Festival
The Raprager Family Farms in Odessa hosts a Winter Festival and Christmas Extravaganza. It’s open from November 24 to December 23, 2024. Explore a lighted gingerbread village, go on a holiday hayride, and visit Santa’s workshop for photos.
There’s a petting zoo, corn pit, bounce pillow, and crop maze. Enjoy seasonal treats like warm cinnamon-roasted nuts, hot cocoa, and Christmas fudge.
“The Raprager Family Farms Winter Festival is a true winter wonderland, with something for everyone.”
| Event | Location | Dates | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christmas Lane | Plant City | November 24 – December 24, 2024 | 1.5 million lights, 200 Christmas trees, rides, food, entertainment, Santa visit |
| Raprager Family Farms Winter Festival | Odessa | November 24 – December 23, 2024 | Lighted gingerbread village, holiday hayride, Santa’s workshop, petting zoo, corn pit, bounce pillow, crop maze, seasonal treats |
These events beyond Tampa are sure to amaze you and create lasting holiday memories8. Whether you want to see dazzling lights or a full winter wonderland, these places offer a magical experience for all.
St. Petersburg’s Radiant Holiday Offerings
As the holiday season nears, St. Petersburg lights up with beautiful light displays and festive events. The city’s gardens and waterfront sparkle, inviting everyone to dive into the holiday spirit.
Holiday Lights in The Gardens at The Florida Botanical Gardens
The Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo, near St. Petersburg, turns into a winter wonderland for the holiday lights event9. From November 29, 2024 to January 5, 2025, it’s lit up with over 1 million LED lights10. Visitors can walk through the gardens, seeing amazing light shows and figures.
The Children’s Area offers free crafts on some nights, making it great for families9.
Waterfront Lights in St. Petersburg
The downtown St. Petersburg waterfront lights up with holiday magic10. Places like Pioneer Park, Vinoy Park, and the St. Pete Pier are perfect for a holiday stroll10.
“The lights at the Florida Botanical Gardens are a true holiday delight. The vibrant display and lush garden setting create an immersive experience that’s perfect for the whole family.”
– Mama Instincts9
Celebrating the Season’s Traditions
Tampa Bay is buzzing with holiday cheer. The Henry B. Plant Museum’s Victorian Christmas Stroll brings Victorian elegance to life. The A Night of Lights Chanukah Celebration is a dazzling community event. Together, they highlight Tampa Bay’s rich cultural heritage during the holidays.
Victorian Christmas Stroll at Henry B Plant Museum
The Henry B. Plant Museum has been hosting its Victorian Christmas Stroll for over 40 years. This year, the 42nd edition runs from December 1 to December 23, 2024. It promises to be a magical experience11.
Guests can explore beautifully decorated rooms with unique themes. They’ll also see a 14-foot Christmas tree and 40 vintage Santas. It’s a tribute to the stroll’s long history.
A Night of Lights Chanukah Celebration
The Water Street Tampa district hosts the A Night of Lights Chanukah Celebration. It’s a celebration of Tampa Bay’s cultural diversity. The event lights a surprise-themed menorah and offers live entertainment and traditional foods.
There are activities for all ages. It’s a festive way to celebrate Chanukah.
“The Henry B. Plant Museum’s Victorian Christmas Stroll and Water Street Tampa’s A Night of Lights Chanukah Celebration are must-attend events. They showcase Tampa Bay’s rich cultural heritage and holiday spirit.”
Family-Friendly Festivities
Tampa Bay is buzzing with holiday fun for families. From Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa to Holiday Lights & Rides at Largo Central Park, there’s something for everyone. These events promise to bring joy to visitors of all ages.
Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa
ZooTampa turns into a winter wonderland for Christmas in the Wild. It runs from November 29 to December 23, 202412. Families can enjoy the holiday spirit with the zoo’s animals around. There are six light zones, two new shows, and a 30-foot tree with dancing lights.
There’s also reindeer games, Mrs. Claus’s cookie shop, and a Caribbean Christmas in Key West. It’s a festive experience for all.
Holiday Lights & Rides at Largo Central Park
Largo Central Park’s Holiday Lights & Rides event runs from November 28 to December 29, 20242. It features over 2 million LED lights. Visitors can walk through the light show and ride carnival attractions like a carousel and a seven-story Ferris wheel.
The event also has food and drink vendors. It’s a great place for families to have fun and make holiday memories.
“The Holiday Lights & Rides event at Largo Central Park is a must-visit for families looking to experience the magic of the holiday season. The sheer number of lights and the variety of rides and activities make it a truly enchanting experience.”
–Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine
Sparkling Water Displays
Experience the holiday magic in Tampa with Tampa’s captivating water-based light displays. Enjoy the River of Christmas Lights cruise and the Tampa Holiday Lighted Boat Parade. These events offer a unique way to see the city’s festive spirit.
River of Christmas Lights with Pirate Water Taxi
Board the Pirate Water Taxi in downtown Tampa for a 45-minute River of Christmas Lights cruise13. See the city’s holiday lights from the water, with festive stories and carols. You can write a letter to Santa and drop it in the North Pole buoy13. The cruise starts at the Tampa Convention Center, making it a memorable holiday experience.
Tampa Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
The Tampa Holiday Lighted Boat Parade is a major event. On December 23, 2024, boats with holiday lights and decorations will sail from Davis Islands to Sparkman Wharf14. Watch the parade from the Riverwalk, between Armature Works and the Sail Pavilion, for a special tampa bay holiday events on water experience.
“The Tampa Holiday Lighted Boat Parade is a must-see event for anyone visiting Tampa during the holidays. The boats are absolutely stunning, and the energy along the Riverwalk is unbeatable.”
– Local Tampa Resident
| Event | Highlights | Admission |
|---|---|---|
| River of Christmas Lights with Pirate Water Taxi | – 45-minute cruise featuring holiday displays and storytelling – Opportunity to write a letter to Santa |
– $25 for kids – $35 for adults |
| Tampa Holiday Lighted Boat Parade | – Boats decorated with holiday lights and decorations – Spectator viewing along the Riverwalk |
– Free to attend |
Enjoy the tampa holiday light displays on water and make memories with your loved ones this holiday season in Tampa Bay1413.
Outlying Areas Aglow
As you leave downtown Tampa, the holiday spirit is just as bright in nearby areas. Must-see spots include The Light of Christmas at the First Baptist Church in plant city christmas light display and the Symphony in Lights at The Shops at Wiregrass in wesley chapel holiday lights.
The Light of Christmas, First Baptist Church, Plant City
The First Baptist Church in Plant City offers a free, synchronized light show called “The Light of Christmas.” It features over 80,000 twinkling lights and shares a message of hope for the holiday season15. The show runs nightly from 6 to 10 pm from November 26, 2024 to January 1, 2025. It’s a festive experience for visitors in the plant city christmas light display area.
Symphony in Lights at The Shops at Wiregrass
In wesley chapel holiday lights, The Shops at Wiregrass host the Symphony in Lights event. It runs nightly through December 31, 2024. Guests can enjoy hourly light and music shows starting at 6 pm each evening. There are also holiday festivities like photos with Santa, a car show, and a “Black Friday” event with characters from “Whoville” and live reindeer.
Whether you want a quiet evening or a fun, family event, these tampa bay holiday light displays and outdoor christmas lights tampa are special. They offer a unique and memorable holiday experience.
Conclusion
The Tampa Bay region lights up during the holidays with amazing Christmas light displays and festive events. These events bring joy to both locals and tourists16. You can explore the Enchant Christmas light maze in St. Petersburg or see the 2 million lights at Largo Central Park16.
There are many ways to enjoy the holiday lights. You can walk through the Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park, take a boat ride on the Hillsborough River, or drive through the Wonderland of Lights at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds1617.
Neighborhoods in Tampa Bay also add to the holiday cheer. Places like Chick-fil-A on Waters Avenue and the Raprager Family Farms Winter Festival are must-sees16. The Tampa Bay Festival of Lights attracts over 200,000 people each year, showing the area’s dedication to holiday fun17.
Tickets for the festival start at $29 for adults and $17 for kids. There are also early bird discounts, making it a great way to celebrate the holidays17.
This guide has shown you the best christmas lights tampa, tampa bay holiday light displays, and holiday lighting tampa spots. Whether you want a stunning light show, a festive boat parade, or a neighborhood display, Tampa Bay has it all1617.
FAQ
What are some of the best Christmas light displays and holiday events in Tampa, Florida?
What is the Busch Gardens Christmas Town event like?
What can visitors expect at the Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights and Santa’s Village event?
What is the Enchant Christmas event at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg like?
What can visitors expect at the Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park in downtown Tampa?
What are some of the highlights of the Holiday Spectacular on the Tampa Riverwalk?
What can visitors expect at the Chick-fil-A store on Waters Avenue in Tampa during the holiday season?
What is the Drive-Bay Lights Display in the Temple Terrace neighborhood of Tampa like?
What can visitors expect at the Christmas Lane event at the Florida Strawberry Festival fairgrounds in Plant City?
What does the Winter Festival and Christmas Extravaganza at Raprager Family Farms in Odessa offer?
What can visitors expect at the Holiday Lights in The Gardens event at the Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo?
What are some of the holiday light displays in downtown St. Petersburg?
What can visitors expect at the Victorian Christmas Stroll at the Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa?
What is the A Night of Lights Chanukah Celebration event at Water Street Tampa like?
What can visitors expect at the Christmas in the Wild event at ZooTampa?
What does the Holiday Lights & Rides event at Largo Central Park offer?
What is the River of Christmas Lights cruise with the Pirate Water Taxi in downtown Tampa?
What is the Tampa Holiday Lighted Boat Parade?
What is the Light of Christmas event at the First Baptist Church in Plant City?
What can visitors expect at the Symphony in Lights event at The Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel?
Source Links
- Where to Find the Best Holiday Lights in Tampa Bay – https://tampabaydatenightguide.com/christmas-holiday-lights/
- Christmas Lights! See the Best Holiday Lights in Tampa St Pete Clearwater – https://tampabayparenting.com/best-holiday-lights-in-tampa-1477/
- Gigantic holiday experience Enchant is a must-visit at Tropicana Field – I Love the Burg – https://ilovetheburg.com/enchant-st-pete/
- 20+ Magical Christmas Activities and Events in Tampa, St. Pete, and Clearwater – https://lakelandmom.com/christmas-tampa-florida/
- ChristmasDisplay.org – https://christmasdisplay.org/
- Tampa Christmas 2024 | Christmas Events 2024 | Christmas Lights, Activities & Events – https://christmas-events-near-me.com/tampa-fl/
- 15 Orlando’s Best Christmas Lights and Holiday Decorations – Orlando Parenting Magazine – https://orlando-parenting.com/orlandos-best-christmas-lights-events-kids/
- Best Zoo Lights (2023) – USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards – https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/travel/best-zoo-lights-2023/
- Enchant Christmas Tickets | Tropicana Field | Tropicana Field in St Petersburg – https://www.tampabayfield.com/enchant-st-petersburg-at-tropicana-field/
- 17 Walk-Thru Christmas & Holiday Lights in Tampa Bay – https://familyfriendlytampabay.com/walk-thru-christmas-holiday-lights-in-tampa-bay/
- 2024 Tampa Bay Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village – https://www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com/events/2024/2024-tampa-bay-festival-of-lights–santas-village
- 24 Best Christmas Events and Activities in Tampa Bay – https://goodnewstampa.com/24-best-christmas-events-and-activities-in-tampa-bay/
- 8 Stunning Places to See Christmas Lights in Tampa 2024 – https://www.sunkissedintampa.com/christmas-lights-in-tampa/
- 10 of our favorite Tampa Bay holiday light displays – https://www.tampabay.com/life-culture/arts/visual-arts/2023/11/21/where-to-see-christmas-holiday-lights-tampa-st-petersburg-sarasota/
- Where to see holiday lighted boat parades around Tampa Bay – https://thatssotampa.com/tampa-bay-boat-parade/
- Where to find Christmas lights in Tampa Bay – https://www.tampabay.com/arts-entertainment/2019/12/14/where-to-find-christmas-lights-in-tampa-bay/
- Tampa Bay Festival of Lights Dazzles with Over 1 Million Glittering Holiday Lights Across Mile-long Winter Carnival Trail – https://festivalevents.org/tampa-bay-festival-of-lights-history-schedule/