Get into the Holiday Spirit with All These Enchanted Festivities!
Hillsborough County
Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve - Get ready for an extraordinary musical adventure this winter as the Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) embarks on their annual holiday tour. TSO, a multi-platinum rock sensation known for dominating the touring charts, is back with their highly anticipated 2023 winter tour, "The Ghosts of Christmas Eve – the Best of TSO & More." Join them for a rock-infused holiday experience like no other.
Sunshine Market - Experience the vibrant community spirit of Midtown Tampa at the Sunshine Market, where you can enjoy live music, craft cocktails, and explore a diverse array of offerings from over 40 local vendors, featuring artists, jewelers, and artisans from across the Tampa Bay area. Join the tradition that locals love and be part of this fantastic market experience.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Jacksonville Jaguars - The Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers game is set to be an exciting clash on the football field. Football fans from both sides are eager to see their teams in action. The Jaguars are looking to make a statement with their young talent, while the Buccaneers, led by their legendary quarterback, are aiming for another shot at glory. It's a game that promises thrilling plays, intense competition, and the electrifying atmosphere of the NFL. Whether you're a die-hard supporter or just love the game, this matchup is one to watch!
Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village - Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village is back, promising a hometown holiday festival filled with dazzling lights, family fun, and new entertainment. From Thanksgiving Day to New Year's Eve, enjoy a magical 2-mile drive adorned with over 1 million lights. Santa's Village offers delicious treats, holiday rides, and a nightly winter market. Don't miss the Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village with firepits for making s'mores – it's the perfect festive gathering for the whole family!
Victorian Christmas Stroll - Join the Henry B Plant Museum for the 42nd annual Victorian Christmas Stroll, a delightful celebration of traditional holiday charm that fosters community spirit. Marvel at the festive decorations, both grand and intricate, adorning the historic former Tampa Bay Hotel. Experience the warmth and nostalgia of an old-fashioned holiday season at this enchanting event!
Pinellas County
Downtown St. Pete Food & Wine Tour - Embark on a delightful culinary adventure in downtown St. Pete with a 3-hour guided walking food and wine tour. Starting at Bella Brava for Italian cuisine and sangrias, your knowledgeable guide will lead you through this charming neighborhood, showcasing exciting restaurants and art galleries against a picturesque waterfront backdrop. Your ticket includes delectable food and wine pairings, ensuring a memorable gastronomic experience.
Sea of Holiday Joy at Clearwater Marine Aquarium - Dive into a sea of holiday joy at Clearwater Marine Aquarium every weekend and select dates from November 24th to December 31st. Witness Santa in his underwater realm and get the chance to meet him in person for a one-of-a-kind holiday photo. Experience the festive spirit with enchanting lights and seasonal decorations adorning the aquarium, and engage in joyful holiday crafts and activities amidst the captivating marine environment. Fun for the whole family awaits!
Christmas Eve Dinner Cruise - Celebrate the holiday season without judgment on our Christmas Eve Holiday Buffet Cruise, ideal for the entire family. Indulge in a festive evening filled with holiday sights and sounds, featuring an upscale buffet feast and timeless holiday classics. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Clearwater from our upper decks while making cherished memories. Your ticket includes a 2-hour cruise, a delectable holiday dinner buffet, a full bar, DJ entertainment, and the unparalleled beauty of Clearwater Beach.
12 Days of Cocktails at JW Marriott Clearwater Beach - This is the last weekend to enjoy a new holiday-inspired cocktail at JW Marriott Clearwater’s Latitude 28° and The Deep End, their rooftop restaurant. Celebrate the holiday season in grand style with their special "12 Days of Cocktails" holiday celebration. From the Campfire Old Fashioned to Boozy Hot Cocoa, there's a holiday drink to suit anyone’s taste.
Pasco County
Christmas Bonfire & Movie Night - Hearts and Dreams Ranch and Retreat will be spreading cheer by showing the movie Elf with a bonfire under the dark skies, stars, and S’Mores! Warm up with hot cocoa from Dade City Nutrition. Hearts and Dreams Ranchtouts itself as not a fancy farm, but a family farm. They also invite you to meet Santa, play with adorable puppies and goat kids, and enjoy the full farm experience before sunset.
Cheermeister Skate - Get into the holiday spirit at the Cheermeister Public Ice Skate event! Get out on the ice and meet the Cheermeister and Cindy Lou. Rest assured, the Grinch won't be stealing Christmas this year! Plus, enjoy hot cocoa and holiday cookies courtesy of Advent Health.
Snowcat Ridge - Experience the magic of Snowcat Ridge this holiday season! From Santa’s Christmas Lane to Santa's Cozy Cabin, there's something for everyone. Enjoy heartwarming stories with Mrs. Claus, find the perfect gift at Santa’s Gift Shoppe, and let the little ones play in the Peppermint Play Zone. Don't miss the thrilling Snowy Slopes tubing hill, Arctic Igloo snow play area, and the Ice Skating Ribbon. The Eskimo Outpost is ideal for events, while the Alpine Village offers food, drinks, shopping, and cozy campfires. Get ready for a winter wonderland adventure!
Ugly Sweater Night at Starkey Market - Get ready for the ultimate Ugly Sweater Night at The Barn at Starkey Market! Delight in an evening of laughter, merriment, and a chance to win prizes. Strut your stuff in the ugliest holiday sweater for a chance to win the "Ugliest Sweater" title and a fabulous prize. The contest starts at 7:30 pm. Don't miss a Festive Raffle for all participants in ugly sweaters, with the winner announced at 8 pm. Weather permitting, cozy up by the bonfire for s'mores and marshmallow roasting. Enjoy live music and drink specials throughout the night!
Hernando County
Brooksville Country Christmas - Experience the magic of Christmas in historic Brooksville with our enchanting carriage rides and seasonal celebrations. A heartwarming holiday experience awaits as the city brings the festive charm of the season to life on it’s historic streets.
Parents Night Out Christmas Party - Parents, it's time to unwind and enjoy some well-deserved downtime this holiday season! The Sensory Center Inc is throwing a festive Parents Night Out Christmas Party. While you take a break, they'll keep the kids entertained with games, crafts, and even a special visit from Santa. Don't miss out on this merry event - reserve your spot today!
Boat Parade in Weeki Wachee - The Weeki Wachee Boat Parade: a festive event that's not only about fun but also about giving back. This parade aims to raise funds for six animal shelters and rescues. The boats will assemble at Rogers Park at 5:30 pm, and at 6 pm, they'll set off down the river, passing by the houses and making their way towards the hospital hole canal. Along the route, they'll be joined by paddle boards and kayaks, creating a spectacular procession that you won't want to miss!
Sarasota/Manatee County
Joyful! Joyful! - Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe's production of "Joyful! Joyful!" is an original musical revue, that brings a fresh twist to traditional holiday songs, infusing gospel and pop classics with high-spirited performances by WBTT's talented singers, dancers, and musicians. Don't miss hits like "Joy to the World," a soulful "Carol of the Bells," a gospel-infused "Hallelujah Chorus," and more! It's a Christmas card to the community that's sure to lift your spirits.
Gingerbread House Decorating - Get ready to channel your inner pastry artist at this Gingerbread House Decorating event! Don your chef's hats and aprons and let your creativity run wild as you design your very own festive gingerbread house. An expert pastry team from The Ritz-Carlton will be there to guide you every step of the way. Plus, you can keep the holiday spirit alive with some delightful light refreshments. It's a sweet and joyful experience that the whole family will cherish!
Polk County
Coke Florida Holiday Caravan Tour - Get ready for holiday cheer at Bonnet Springs Park on December 23 with the Coke Florida Holiday Caravan! This festive event brings the iconic Coca-Cola red truck, beverage sampling, and a photo opportunity with Santa to our community. Don't miss this wonderful holiday experience.
Downtown Lakeland’s Festive Fridays - Explore locally-owned retailers with extended opening hours to help you find unique gifts for your loved ones. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with holiday music playing along the sidewalks and friendly holiday characters available for photos. Don't forget to check out the beautiful holiday lights in Munn Park. Get into the holiday spirit and find that perfect gift!
Cypress Gardens Water Ski Show - Enjoy FREE SKI SHOWS in Winter Haven presented by the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team. Head to MLK Jr. Park to catch these thrilling performances. Remember to bring your blanket or lawn chair for comfortable viewing, and there will be concessions available for your convenience. The Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team, founded by former Cypress Gardens Theme Park waterskiers, is dedicated to carrying on the tradition of show skiing and sharing their legacy with future generations. Don't miss this exciting display of waterskiing skills!
Citrus County
Lighted Holiday Boat Parade - Experience the enchantment of the Crystal River Lighted Boat Parade! Watch as beautifully adorned boats illuminate the river with their festive lights, creating a magical spectacle that embodies the holiday spirit. This annual event is a delightful celebration that brings the community together for a night of wonder and joy. Don't miss the Crystal River Lighted Boat Parade – a cherished holiday tradition that will surely brighten your season.
Live From Mistletoe Ridge: An Accidental Christmas Comedy - In the tranquil town of Mistletoe Ridge, an unexpected adventure unfolds when TV producer Nash Adams finds himself stranded at the Pear Tree Inn. Meeting the quirky locals, including the Christmas-obsessed Trixiebelle Partridge, Nash hatches a plan for an undercover Christmas special to boost failing network ratings. As he delves into the lives of colorful residents like the apocalyptic preacher Rev. Purvis Campbell, aspiring comedian Misty Dawn, and yodeling Sasquatch hunter Nylette Kettlebottom, Nash's scheme takes surprising and creative twists. Little does he know, the town's residents are more clever than he thought, turning the tables on his sensationalizing efforts.
Lee County
Holiday Lights & More - Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Calusa Nature Center's Holiday Lights event! Our enchanting 1/3-mile trail comes alive with hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights, creating a mesmerizing display. As you stroll through this illuminated wonderland, enjoy the festive sounds of seasonal music. After your walk, don't miss the chance to meet Santa or Mrs. Claus in the charming Pine Pavilion. Warm up by the fire circle while roasting marshmallows, sipping hot chocolate, and relaxing on bench seating. We even have holiday crafts to delight the little ones. Join us for a truly wonderful time of year!
Decorate Christmas Cookies - A delightful evening of Christmas cookie decorating awaits. Each group will receive a cookie kit featuring 6 unfrosted sugar cookies in 3 different holiday shapes, 3 types of icing, 2 varieties of sprinkles, and 1 instruction card. While you get creative with your cookies, enjoy our hot cocoa bar and gain admission to the enchanting Holiday Nights light display. It's a festive way to celebrate the holiday season!
Charlotte County
The Wonderland of Lights - Experience the enchantment of the holiday season at The Wonderland of Lights, a mesmerizing celebration that will transport you into a world of sparkling splendor. As you drive through captivating tunnels of shimmering lights and encounter larger-than-life illuminated sculptures, you'll be immersed in the holiday spirit like never before. For an extra dose of wonder, be sure to purchase the enchanted 3D elf glasses at the gate, adding a delightful twist to your already magical journey. This is a great opportunity to make cherished holiday memories with family and friends!
Garden’s Aglow at Peace River Botanical Garden - Experience the magic of the holiday season like never before at the Annual Gardens Aglow event at Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens. Stroll through acres of gardens adorned with thousands of dazzling lights, creating a perfect family outing. This walk-through holiday spectacle is designed to be accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, ensuring fun for everyone.
