Wondering How to Make the Most of Your Upcoming Weekend? Here's Our Curated List of Activities & Events to Fill Your Days.
Hillsborough County
The Xtreme Experience - Get ready for the thrill of a lifetime! The Motor Enclave invites you to step into the driver's seat and experience the power and precision of our fleet of exotic cars. Take on our brand-new 1.6-mile road course, featuring a thrilling mix of sweeping curves and challenging technical corners. And when you hit the straightaway, unleash the full potential of these incredible machines as you accelerate to triple-digit speeds. Located just a short 15-minute drive east of downtown Tampa, The Motor Enclave offers the ultimate adrenaline-pumping experience for automotive enthusiasts. Don't miss your chance to live out your racing dreams on this exhilarating course!
39th Annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade - Celebrate the holiday season with a splash of Florida flair! Get ready to welcome Santa Claus in the most unique way – as he arrives by boat. As Santa makes his grand entrance, prepare to be enchanted by a spectacular parade of beautifully decorated boats, each adorned with festive holiday lights and decorations. This dazzling procession will wind its way up the picturesque Alafia River, creating a mesmerizing sight for all to enjoy. The best part? Parking and viewing are absolutely FREE, so gather your family and friends for this magical holiday spectacle. Presented by Chris Ligori & Associates in collaboration with Hillsborough County Parks, it's an event you won't want to miss!
5th Annual Bowling Night with Mike Evans - Get ready to roll in style at the 5th Annual Catch For Christmas Bowling Night in Tampa! This year, we're turning up the fun with a Creamsicle-themed bash that's bound to delight. Indulge in Creamsicle-inspired drinks, delectable food, and more as we celebrate Mike's remarkable 10th season as a Buccaneer. Whether you're gathering your friends for a night of fun or planning your holiday work party, join us in filling up the lanes with Bucs fans dressed to impress in their Creamsicle best. Not only will you have a blast, but your participation also goes a long way in supporting the Mike Evans Family Foundation's Catch for Christmas program. Mike and Ashli are dedicated to spreading holiday joy by providing gifts and unforgettable experiences to local kids and families in need. Don't miss out on this fantastic event that combines sports, philanthropy, and the spirit of the season!
Fun & Furious Friday - Get ready to rev up your Fridays with a turbocharged dose of fun! Join us for an action-packed day filled with thrilling games, delectable treats, and a touch of automotive luxury. Our vibrant community in the middle of it all transforms into a playground of epic proportions with larger-than-life yard games, the sweet melodies of live music, and mouthwatering treats from your beloved Midtown retailers. But the excitement doesn't stop there – every first Friday of the month, Corsa Car Rally takes center stage, unveiling a spectacular showcase of exquisite luxury and sports cars that will leave you in awe. So mark your calendar and meet us in the middle for a Friday that's all about high-octane entertainment and unforgettable experiences!
Howliday - Santa Paws is making an early appearance this year, and it's going to be a howling good time in Midtown Tampa! Join us for a merry Saturday afternoon hosted by the Dog Moms of Tampa Bay, where your furry friend can revel in the holiday spirit. With over 100 dog-friendly vendors in attendance, there will be a bounty of treats, toys, and tail-waggin' fun to explore. It's a paw-some opportunity to make your pup's wishes come true and enjoy some Feliz Navi-dog festivities with fellow dog lovers! Don't miss out on this woof-tastic celebration of all things canine.
Pinellas County
Honeymoon Island Bluegrass Festival - Get ready to tap your toes and embrace the soothing sounds of bluegrass at the Honeymoon Island Bluegrass Festival on Saturday, December 2, 2023! This musical extravaganza, held at the picturesque Honeymoon Island State Park, promises six hours of toe-tapping, traditional bluegrass melodies that will sweep you off your feet. With a variety of food vendors to tantalize your taste buds, a dedicated Children's Area for the little ones, and comfortable lawn chair seating, it's a day of pure musical bliss. Plus, convenient trolley rides to and from parking lots make your festival experience even smoother. This year's lineup features acclaimed artists like Becky Buller, the ETSU Pride Band, and Rekindled Bits of Grass. Don't miss out on this harmonious celebration of bluegrass that will have you singing along all day long!
Holiday Strolling Market - Embrace the holiday spirit and check off those last-minute gifts from your list at the Strolling Market during the Holiday Tree Lighting and Stroll Event at Largo Central Park. With an array of vendors offering unique finds, you'll have plenty of options to choose from. While you shop for the perfect presents, savor delicious treats and beverages from the food vendors on-site. Best of all, admission to this festive event is free, so you can enjoy the joyful atmosphere without any cost. Just keep in mind that onsite parking is available for a convenient $10 fee, making it easy for you to bring home your holiday treasures. Don't miss this opportunity to make your holiday shopping experience memorable and hassle-free!
Sunshine State Drone Expo - Sunshine State Drone Expo is a free and open-to-the-public event that promises a day filled with excitement and learning. Witness thrilling Drone Racing and RC Aerobatics, marvel at Flight Exhibitions by organizations like FHP, Southern Manatee Fire Department HAZMAT, and Duke Energy, among others. Gain valuable insights with on-the-spot TRUST Certification and learn about Weather vs. Your Drone from Spectrum Bay News 9 Meteorologist Brian McClure. Explore industry displays featuring renowned names such as Raytheon, Motorola, FLYMOTION, Little Arms, and the local AMA (Sparks Club). And of course, savor delectable treats from food trucks while enjoying drone-related activities throughout the day until 5:00 pm. We look forward to seeing you there!
Dunedin Youth Guild's 54th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes - Celebrate the holiday season in style at the 54th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes hosted by the Dunedin Youth Guild on Saturday, December 2, 2023. Embracing the theme of "Merry and Bright," this year's tour features six enchanting Dunedin homes, each beautifully blending local tropical holiday favorites with a touch of sparkling vintage charm. Join us at the Hale Center, 330 Douglas Avenue, Dunedin, FL 34698, and don't forget to make time for our delightful Holiday Tea, included with your ticket. Enjoy a selection of scrumptious tea sandwiches, holiday cookies, and a steaming cup of tea or coffee while mingling with friends and exploring our vendors and boutique tables. This is the perfect place to kickstart your holiday shopping and find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones. We look forward to sharing the holiday spirit with you and your family!
Pasco County
Pioneer Christmas Vintage Market - Get ready for an unforgettable Christmas extravaganza! Head to the gate for tickets and gear up for a day of festive fun. Explore unique vendors for perfect Christmas presents, savor treats from mouthwatering food trucks, and enjoy live entertainment, including the Barking Dogs (Old Time Music). Be amazed by GiGi and Friends, a former Ringling Brothers and Barnum Bailey Circus member, and the beloved children's entertainer, Mr. Tommy. Prepare to be dazzled by our Dancing Elves, renowned for their high-energy performances. Immerse yourself in crafts demonstrations, let your children join reindeer games, and capture the magic with family photos. Don't miss this Christmas extravaganza!
Snowcat Ridge Snow Park - Discover the magic of Florida's unique Alpine Snow Park! This one-of-a-kind attraction boasts ice skating, a snow igloo, an enchanting Alpine Village, and a thrilling 60-foot-tall snow tubing hill. Don't miss your chance to experience the wonder of winter right here in Florida!
The Fancy Flea: Dade City Jingle Ball Market - Get ready, Dade City! The Fancy Flea is heading your way with a treasure trove of vintage finds, exquisite furniture, farmhouse decor, shabby chic delights, boho wonders, antiques, mid-century gems, unique artisan jewelry, handmade soaps, fashionable ladies' attire, live music, delectable food trucks, and much more. Plus, you can enter for a chance to win fantastic prizes, including a stylish ladies' market bike. Don't miss this exciting weekend filled with eclectic offerings and good vibes!
Kid’s LEGO Open Build - Join us at the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center for a delightful session of Lego-building fun! Whether you come solo or with friends and family, you'll have the chance to unleash your creativity with our Lego building blocks and craft your very own masterpiece. This activity is perfect for those aged 6 and above, so gather your imagination and let the building adventures begin!
Hernando County
9th Annual Hilly Hundred - Ride up to the 9th Annual Hilly Hundred and embark on an exciting cycling adventure through the charming streets of Brooksville! Are you up for the challenge of conquering a 100, 68, or 32-mile ride? Instead of a registration fee, we encourage all participants to contribute by donating a new, unwrapped toy or gently used bicycle to our toy drive benefiting Guardian Ad Litem of Hernando County. For added convenience, we've introduced two SAG stops along the route at mile 15 and 51, and there are plenty of convenience stores and parks for additional supply and meet-up points. The Hernando County Sheriff's Department will ensure a safe start to the ride, while the well-marked course guides you through open roads. This year, you also have the option to grab a Performance Tee featuring the event logo and route graphic. Show off your achievement and join us for a memorable ride!
Whiskey in the Woods at NJoy Spirits - Get ready for the "big one"! Our Annual Whiskey-in-the-Woods Celebration is just around the corner on December 2, 2023. Save the date! We kick things off at 11:00 am and wrap up the festivities at 6:00 pm. Live music will set the stage from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, creating the perfect atmosphere for what's to come. Don't miss out on two exclusive NJOY Spirit releases during the event: the Limited Release of our Award-winning 9-Year-Old Wild Buck Whiskey, complete with bottles signed by the Master Distiller, and the Limited Release of our Award-winning 6-Year-Old Florida Mermaid Rum, also featuring bottles signed by the Master Distiller. These limited bottlings are from just two barrels and tend to sell out quickly. They make for extraordinary gifts or cherished keepsakes for future occasions like graduations and anniversaries. Join us at NJOY Spirits Distillery for a day filled with celebration, and know that a portion of the proceeds goes to support Wheelchairs 4 Kids.
Toys for Tots - Join us at Terlep Chiropractic for a heartwarming charitable event on Saturday, December 2, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. We're collecting toys for children in need, and in exchange for your generosity with unwrapped toys, you'll receive chiropractic services. It's a win-win! Plus, there's more to enjoy: FREE tacos, face painting, games, and refreshing shaved ice. Let's come together and spread the joy of Christmas throughout the Hernando County Community. We can't wait to celebrate with you!
Sarasota/Manatee County
Pottery Painting - Discover your inner artist at the Linda & Dick Dickinson Ceramics Studio! Join us for an enriching afternoon where you'll infuse your personal style into ceramics. During the workshop, you'll have the chance to glaze two distinct and vibrant pieces of premade pottery. With an array of forms to choose from—ranging from cups and bowls to mugs, vases, and even holiday-themed creations—you'll craft unique works of art. After the workshop, you can collect your finished masterpieces the following week, just in time to showcase them for the holiday season!
Suncoast Renaissance Festival - Step back in time and immerse yourself in a world of magic, merriment, and adventure at the 4th season of the SunCoast Renaissance Festival held at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. This enchanting event is designed to captivate visitors of all ages, promising an unforgettable experience. The festival features a vibrant cast of colorful characters who bring the lands to life with music, dancing, and more. With over 100 daily stage shows, a tempting array of foods and treats, and a multitude of artisan merchants offering handcrafted wares, the SunCoast Renaissance Festival invites guests to embrace a truly unique fusion of history and fantasy. Don't miss out on this extraordinary journey!
The Sarasota Cuban Ballet School Presents ‘The Nutcracker’ - Embark on a magical journey into Clara's enchanting dream world as the Sarasota Cuban Ballet School presents "The Nutcracker." This beloved holiday classic is brought to life with the timeless choreography and the exquisite melodies of Tchaikovsky's score. The production boasts custom-designed scenery and costumes, created exclusively for the school by a renowned theater designer. Don't let this enchanting evening slip away – join us and experience the magic of "The Nutcracker" like never before!
Service Dogs Saving Lives - Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with hope, joy, and dancing at "A Night of Hope Dinner & Dance to Save Lives." Save the date for Saturday, January 13, 2024, and gather at the beautiful Stoneybrook Golf & Country Club in Sarasota. The night promises a heartwarming experience, complete with a silent auction and the chance to win big with our 50/50 draw. Don't miss this opportunity to make a difference and have a fantastic time doing it!
Polk County
Glitter, Glisten, & Snow - Haines City Parks & Recreation, along with Miracle Toyota, proudly presents the Haines City Christmas Parade and "Glitter, Glisten, & Snow 2023!" The festive parade kicks off at 6:00 p.m. in front of Burger King, winding its way along Hinson Ave. to 6th Street, eventually leading to the magical Lake Eva Park. Join us at Lake Eva Park, where Santa will illuminate the towering 31-ft Christmas tree and all the park's splendid holiday lights. Enjoy delightful activities like capturing moments with Santa, experiencing a snowy wonderland, crafting, and the much-anticipated return of the snow slide! It's a night of pure holiday enchantment for the entire family!
Lakeland Symphony Orchestra: Toast to the Holidays - The Anne Jenkins Memorial Symphony Series lies at the heart of the Symphony's annual lineup, featuring orchestral performances that exude the beauty, unity, and impact of live music. Season subscriptions are readily accessible, while individual event tickets become available to the general public 60 days prior to each performance. In 2021, the Imperial Symphony Orchestra transformed into the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra, preserving its original mission and adapting it for contemporary audiences, thus ensuring a continued celebration of the timeless art of symphonic music.
Santa Cares: Sensory Friendly Santa Visit - Families with children across the spectrum of special needs are warmly invited to a sensory-friendly Santa Cares event, offering an opportunity to partake in the cherished tradition of meeting and taking photos with Santa before the mall opens. This special gathering takes place on Sunday, December 3, from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm. Reservations are essential for Santa Cares events, and while attendance is free, on-site photo packages are available for purchase to help you capture the enchantment of your Santa visit.
Grinchmas at Gourmet Goodies Bakery Winter Haven - Get ready for the biggest Grinchmas celebration yet! Join us at the 5th Annual Grinchmas Event in Downtown Winter Haven, Florida, generously sponsored by Gourmet Goodies Bake Shop, and taking place in Central Park. This FREE event has something for everyone, from free photos with the Grinch to cookie decorating, face painting, horse carriage rides, a toddler play area, food trucks, and so much more. There's no admission charge, and you can enjoy live music, entertaining games, exciting prizes, and even grab a free photo with the Grinch himself. Plus, don't forget to dress up in your finest Whoville outfit for a special bonus! We can't wait to celebrate with you there!
Citrus County
The Christmas Tree Lighting Festival - Get ready for one of the most eagerly awaited events in the city! Join us in the town square as we illuminate our stunning tree in a dazzling display. The festivities include live entertainment, a delightful array of holiday shopping vendors, engaging children's activities, tempting food vendors, a selection of beer and wine, and a special appearance by none other than Santa Claus himself. We're thrilled to announce the addition of horse and carriage rides right in the heart of downtown. Don't miss out on this cherished holiday celebration—it's a joyous occasion you won't want to miss!
Crystal River Christmas Parade - Lights, Camera, Christmas Magic! Get ready for the 2023 Crystal River and Inverness Christmas Parade with the enchanting theme of Christmas Movies! Step into the world of heartwarming holiday classics like "It's a Wonderful Life" and "A Christmas Carol," relive the nostalgia of beloved cartoons such as "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" and "Frosty the Snowman," or embrace the joy of modern favorites like "Elf" and "The Polar Express." With inspiration from these iconic films, our towns will transform into real-life Hollywood sets on December 2nd at 6 PM in Crystal River and December 9th at 12 PM in Inverness. Don't miss this unforgettable day filled with laughter, music, and the true spirit of Christmas!
Regal Railways Toy Train Show & Sale - Explore a train enthusiast's paradise at our event, featuring over 70 tables and vendors offering model trains of various gauges and accessories. For the little engineers, there will be captivating running train layouts to enjoy and a unique photo train engine booth for memorable snapshots. It's a family affair, so bring your children along, as there's something for everyone to delight in. And when hunger strikes, don't worry, we've got you covered with a food truck serving up delicious lunch and snacks. All aboard for a day of train-tastic fun!
Lee County
35th Annual Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade - Join us in celebrating an evening of lights and holiday cheer, the Florida way – with beautifully decorated boats! You have the chance to participate in the fun by entering your own boat or simply enjoy the parade from one of the fantastic restaurants along the route. Our expert panel of judges will evaluate the boats, selecting winners and runners-up in four exciting categories. As a spectator, you can also get in on the action by casting your vote for the prestigious People's Choice Award. To enter a non-commercial boat, the fee is $40, and for a sponsored boat, it's $75. Payment can be made via cash, check, or credit card, with credit card transactions incurring a 90-cent fee. Don't miss this opportunity to be a part of this dazzling holiday tradition!
THE HOME… for the Holidays!: Comedy Musical - Join us for the hilarious holiday comedy, "THE HOME...for the Holidays," starring Rick Compton and Betsey Bennett. In this uproarious show, the characters from "Assisted Living: The Musical" celebrate the season with a twist. From decking the halls to auditions for the Home's Holiday Extravaganza, this vaudeville-style musical revue will have you in stitches. Don't miss out on the laughter and catchy tunes like "Chili Today and Hot Tamale." Get ready for a rollicking good time!
Charlotte County
Punta Gorda Symphony Presents Holiday Spectacular - Join us for an exciting 2023/24 Season! Led by our new Artistic and Music Director, Richard Stoelzel, the Punta Gorda Symphony presents six Masterworks Concerts, showcasing the works of both traditional and modern composers. You can look forward to enjoying compositions by the likes of Dvořák, Mussorgsky, Mahler, Mendelssohn, Mozart, Gershwin, and John Williams. Plus, don't miss our special presentation of "Holiday Spectacular – A Collection of Holiday Favorites" conducted by Richard Stoelzel himself, as we celebrate the season in style. It's a musical journey you won't want to miss!
The Wonderland of Lights at Charlotte County Fairgrounds - Get ready to celebrate the Holidays in style at The Wonderland of Lights! Experience the magic with a mesmerizing drive through enchanting tunnels of shimmering lights and larger-than-life illuminated sculptures. The event runs from December 1 to December 30, 2023, so you can visit as many times as you'd like during your stay. And for an extra touch of wonder, be sure to purchase the enchanted 3D elf glasses at the gate. If you're planning a corporate outing or have a larger group or motorcoach, feel free to contact our team directly for special arrangements. Don't miss out on this dazzling holiday extravaganza!
