12 Fun Activities To Experience In Tampa This December

As the holiday season approaches, Tampa is absolutely brimming with festive cheer and excitement. There's no shortage of fun and interesting activities to experience, from traditional Christmas events to offbeat adventures that are sure to delight. Whether you're a local looking for something new to try or a visitor seeking out the best of the city's offerings, we've put together a list of 12 fun activities to experience in Tampa this December. So grab your friends and family, bundle up against the chill, and get ready to explore everything that this vibrant city has to offer!

Visit the Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park

For those looking to escape the cold winter weather up north, Tampa, Florida promises warm, sunny days throughout the year. In December, visitors to Tampa can experience the city's unique offerings, including the Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park.

The Winter Village is an annual holiday event that transforms the downtown park into a winter wonderland. From ice skating to holiday shopping, there's plenty to see and do at this festive attraction.

The ice rink is a main feature of the Winter Village. Visitors can skate under the stars on the real ice rink. Skate rentals are available for all ages, making the attraction perfect for families. For those who don't want to skate, there's always plenty of space to enjoy the winter scenery or catch a few rays of the warm Florida sun on the outdoor seating areas.

In addition to ice skating, the Winter Village offers a holiday market featuring unique gifts and treats from local vendors. Visitors can browse for handmade holiday decorations, jewelry, pottery, and more. The market is a great way to support local businesses while finding the perfect gift for a loved one.

While at the Winter Village, visitors can also enjoy classic holiday treats, such as hot cocoa and warm apple cider. Food trucks offer a variety of mouth-watering options, including gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and classic holiday fare.

For those looking for more excitement, the Winter Village hosts a variety of special events throughout December. From live music to outdoor movie nights, there's always something happening at the park.

Overall, the Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Tampa in December. It's a great way to get in the holiday spirit while enjoying the sunny, warm weather of Florida.

Watch the holiday light display at The Florida Aquarium

Tampa in December is a great place to be, especially with all the wonderful holiday activities and events that are happening all around the city. One of the most popular things to do during this time is to visit The Florida Aquarium and experience their holiday light display.

This is an event that is perfect for the entire family. The Florida Aquarium has been transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with thousands of stunning lights that will dazzle and delight everyone. The display features more than 100 unique displays, including a massive Christmas tree and underwater decorations.

The holiday light display at The Florida Aquarium is open every night throughout December, and tickets can be purchased in advance online. Guests will be able to explore the aquarium and see all the marine life while also enjoying the festive and beautiful holiday light display.

One of the highlights of the event is the synchronized light and sound show, which takes place several times throughout the night. The show features music from popular holiday songs and choreographed light displays that are sure to impress.

In addition to the holiday light display, The Florida Aquarium also offers a variety of other activities for guests of all ages. There are daily animal encounters, a 4D theater, and even a behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium. There are also special events and activities scheduled throughout the month of December, making it a great time to visit.

Overall, the holiday light display at The Florida Aquarium is a must-see event for families and visitors to Tampa in December. The stunning lights and festive atmosphere are sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit, and it's a great way to experience the unique charm of the city during the holiday season.

Take a stroll through the luminaries at Selby Gardens in Sarasota

If you're planning a trip to Tampa in December, be sure to take a short drive south to Sarasota and experience the enchanting luminaries at Selby Gardens. This annual display of festive lights is a must-see during the holiday season.

The luminaries at Selby Gardens are a series of thousands of illuminated lanterns and lights that are hung from trees and scattered throughout the property. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, taking in the beautiful sights and sounds of the holiday season. This display not only showcases the beauty of Selby Gardens, but also celebrates the spirit of the holiday season.

While you're there, be sure to check out the other events happening at Selby Gardens in December. From live music performances to handcrafted holiday gifts, there is something for everyone to enjoy. One popular event is the Holiday Greenery Sale, which offers a variety of holiday plants and wreaths for purchase.

In addition to the luminaries, Selby Gardens offers a variety of other attractions that are worth exploring. The tropical conservatory is home to a diverse collection of exotic plants, while the butterfly garden allows visitors to interact with beautiful butterflies and learn about their life cycles.

If you're looking for a unique and festive experience during your trip to Tampa in December, make sure to add a visit to Selby Gardens to your itinerary. The luminaries are a magical display of lights that will leave you feeling enchanted and in the holiday spirit.

Check out the Christmas at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

If you are planning to visit Tampa in December, then you are in for a treat. The city of Tampa is abuzz with festive activities and events that will surely get you into the holiday spirit! One must not miss attraction, Christmas at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, is a perfect way to kick start your holiday celebrations.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, popularly known as Florida's thrill ride leader, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The park is adorned with beautiful twinkling lights, Christmas decors, and festive music that will put you in the mood for holidays. Starting in mid-November and extending throughout December, Christmas at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay features festive entertainment, holiday crafts, and seasonal treats.

One of the main attractions of Christmas at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the stunning light show that illuminates the park at night. The show, named Christmas on Ice, features world-class skaters performing on the ice along with vibrant costumes, music, and special effects, making it a perfect family-friendly entertainment. Another highlight of the park is the Sing-A-Long Train ride, where guests can hop aboard and enjoy festive music, light displays, and a sing-along with familiar holiday tunes.

For a unique and immersive experience, the park has a special attraction named "Three Kings Journey" which takes you on a magical journey of the Three Wise Men, complete with live animals and an interactive, musical performance.

If you are looking for something to delight your taste buds, the park has a wide range of holiday treats, from hot cocoa to cinnamon sugar pretzels and everything in between. You can also take a break from the heightened excitement with a leisurely stroll through the Christmas Village, where you can find handmade crafts and Christmas gifts.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a fun-filled holiday experience, make sure to mark Christmas at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on your itinerary. With the magical light show, festive entertainment, delicious food, and unique attractions, there's something for everyone at this winter wonderland. Make sure you pack your holiday spirit because you'll need it to enjoy all the wonders this park has to offer!

Enjoy ice skating at Tampa's Winter Village in Curtis Hixon Park

Characteristic	Description
Name	Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Type	Park in Tampa, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 9,121
Address	600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602
Phone	(813) 274-8615
Hours	Friday - 7 AM–10 PM Saturday - 7 AM–10 PM Sunday - 7 AM–10 PM Monday - 7 AM–10 PM Tuesday - 7 AM–10 PM Wednesday - 7 AM–10 PM Thursday - 7 AM–10 PM
Profiles

If you're searching for a festive way to spend an afternoon in Tampa this December, look no further than the Winter Village in Curtis Hixon Park, where you can lace up your skates and hit the ice. This charming winter wonderland draws visitors from across the city with its holiday lights, live entertainment, and captivating atmosphere.

First and foremost, visitors to the Winter Village can partake in ice skating. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, the rink welcomes all skill levels. It's a perfect way to enjoy the crisp winter air and get some exercise at the same time. It's important to note that ice skating at the Winter Village is a popular activity and does require a reservation, so be sure to book ahead of time to secure your spot.

After a few spins around the ice, visitors can explore the various vendors displaying their latest goods. Whether you're searching for a unique holiday gift, a warm winter hat, or a cup of hot cocoa, this village has it all. You can enjoy delicious treats, from savory and sweet dishes to craft and local beers on tap, all while enjoying live entertainment. The Winter Village provides the perfect setting for couples, families and children alike to enjoy the festive season.

Along with skating and shopping, the Winter Village offers several other fun activities and exciting events. There's nothing quite as magical as watching one of the many musical performances, which range from carolers to choirs to live bands. Now and then, there's even a visit from the man himself- Santa Claus!

Whether you're an expert skater or just looking for a unique holiday experience, Tampa's Winter Village in Curtis Hixon Park is the place to be. The village is open from the middle of November through December, so be sure to grab your skates and warm winter clothes and head over to enjoy this festive winter wonderland.

Attend the St. Pete Illuminated boat parade on the waterfront

If you are planning a visit to Tampa in December and looking for some fun and exciting activities to do, then attending the St. Pete Illuminated boat parade on the waterfront should definitely be on your list.

The St. Pete Illuminated boat parade is an annual event that takes place in downtown St. Petersburg on the second Saturday in December. The parade features dozens of boats decked out in colorful lights and decorations that sail through the waterfront downtown area.

The parade starts at 6:30 pm and lasts for about two hours. The boats cruise along the waterfront, giving spectators an up-close view of the illuminated vessels. The best viewing spots for the parade are Vinoy Park, the Pier, and Straub Park.

Apart from the boat parade, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy during the event. The Vinoy Park, which is the official site of the parade, hosts a variety of food and drink vendors, live music, and other entertainments. The event is family-friendly, and children will enjoy the holiday-themed activities, including face painting and a visit from Santa Claus himself.

The St. Pete Illuminated boat parade is a unique and festive way to celebrate the holiday season in Tampa. The event is free, and the ambiance of the decorated boats and waterfront at night adds to the festive mood of the season.

In conclusion, attending the St. Pete Illuminated boat parade on the waterfront is one of the must-do events during your visit to Tampa in December. The parade is a unique and exciting experience that offers something for everyone, making it the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season with your family and friends.

Go see the annual Christmas Town festivities at the Lowry Park Zoo

Tampa in December is a great place to be, with a variety of exciting events and activities to enjoy. One of the most popular attractions during this time of year is the annual Christmas Town festivities at the Lowry Park Zoo.

Going to the zoo during the holiday season is a unique experience that is perfect for the whole family. The theme park is transformed into a winter wonderland, with thousands of twinkling lights, Christmas trees, wreaths, and other festive decorations.

The Christmas Town festivities at the Lowry Park Zoo offer a broad range of holiday activities and events for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Santa's Village - Here, children can meet with Santa Claus and his helpers while they make their holiday wishes and have their picture taken.
• Caroling - Enjoy the sound of live Christmas carols throughout the zoo by local choirs and other musicians.
• Holiday Crafts - Help your children create personalized holiday crafts to take home with them, such as ornaments and holiday cards.
• Wildlife Encounters - Lowry Park Zoo has a wide range of animals that you can see up close and personal, along with various animal encounters, putting the animal in the spotlight during Christmas season.

In addition to these activities, visitors can enjoy a range of holiday treats and food throughout the park, from hot chocolate to holiday-themed snacks.

The Lowry Park Zoo's Christmas Town festivities run from late November through late December, and the park is open in the evenings until 10:00 pm, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the dazzling light displays and the festive atmosphere.

Overall, The Christmas Town festivities at the Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa in December is an excellent event for families and people of all ages to enjoy. It’s a great winter wonderland experience that will put any visitor in the holiday spirit, and create a great experience never to forget.

Explore the holiday displays and decorations at Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center

Tampa in December is a sight to behold. With the air tinged with a crisp chill and the excitement of the holiday season, the city is a perfect destination for anyone looking to soak up some winter cheer. One of the highlights of the season is the stunning holiday displays and decorations at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center.

Located a short drive from downtown Tampa, the Gaylord Palms is a sprawling resort that features a range of amenities and activities that cater to visitors of all ages. During the holiday season, the resort transforms into a winter wonderland, with millions of twinkling lights, larger-than-life decorations, and a range of festive events that are sure to delight visitors.

Perhaps the most popular feature of the Gaylord Palms' holiday display is the ICE! exhibit. This incredible display features over two million pounds of hand-carved ice sculptures, including towering ice slides and life-sized recreations of classic holiday scenes. The exhibit is kept at a frigid nine degrees Fahrenheit, so visitors are provided with thick parkas to keep them warm as they explore the sculptures.

Children and adults alike will love spending time at the resort's Christmas Village, where they can enjoy seasonal treats, including hot cocoa and gingerbread cookies, and meet Santa himself. The village also features a range of games and activities, including snow tubing and an ice rink.

One of the best ways to experience the Gaylord Palms' holiday displays is to take a stroll through the resort's atriums. These grand spaces are adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and towering Christmas trees, which create a truly magical atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy live music performances and fabulous dining options while taking in the holiday cheer.

For those looking for a romantic getaway, the resort also offers horse-drawn carriage rides through the holiday displays, which provide a unique perspective on the stunning decorations.

In conclusion, a visit to Tampa in December is not complete without spending time exploring the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center's incredible holiday displays and decorations. With a range of activities and events that cater to visitors of all ages, the resort provides a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Attend the Armature Works Winter Wonderland holiday event

Tampa in December is an excellent destination for anyone chasing a winter wonderland experience. The city abounds with various festivities, and one of the must-attend events during the holiday season is the Armature Works Winter Wonderland.

Taking place at the Armature Works, an historic Tampa Heights' building, this holiday event is a winter paradise for people of all ages. Armature Works is a 70,000 sq. ft. mixed-use space with a collection of stylish restaurants, bars, as well as event venues.

The Winter Wonderland holiday event kicks off in mid-November and continues through New Year's Eve. The entire area is adorned with magical lights and decorations, and there are tons of holiday activities sure to get you in the festive spirit.

One of the central attractions at the Winter Wonderland event is the ice rink, which transforms the outdoor space into a winter wonderland. Here, visitors can skate on the ice, sip hot chocolate, and watch as the Christmas lights multiply the magic in the air. There is free skate for children under 12 and discounts for groups.

Apart from the ice skates, there are other activities like a holiday market, where you can find unique and handmade gifts. Besides, visitors can take pictures with Santa Claus, who is always on hand to let children know they are on his 'nice' list.

Moreover, you can enjoy holiday music and live performances by local artists and bands. You can indulge in mouthwatering food from the available vendors while savoring a seasonal cocktail or craft beer.

In conclusion, Tampa in December has plenty to offer, and the Armature Works Winter Wonderland is undoubtedly one of the highlights. The combination of activities, live music, food, and drinks create a festive ambiance that captures the essence of the holiday season. So grab your scarves, mittens, and beanie; it's time to enjoy the winter wonderland in Tampa.

See the Winter Wonderland display at the Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo

If you are planning a trip to Tampa in December, you definitely need to visit the Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo to experience the Winter Wonderland display. This popular holiday event attracts both local residents and tourists from around the world every year.

The Winter Wonderland display is a spectacular holiday light show that transforms the botanical gardens into a magical wonderland. You will be amazed by the breathtaking display of more than 1 million twinkling lights, which are artfully arranged to create a winter wonderland like no other. You will see giant twirling snowflakes, towering Christmas trees, a glittering ice palace, a stunning nativity scene, and many other dazzling holiday-themed displays.

The Winter Wonderland event is suitable for visitors of all ages, and there are plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. You can take a stroll through the gardens and observe the beautiful displays from up close, take a train ride around the park, or enjoy hot cocoa and other holiday treats in the on-site café.

The Florida Botanical Gardens are located in Largo, which is just a short drive from Tampa. The event runs from Thanksgiving weekend through to the end of December, so make sure to schedule your visit accordingly.

In addition to the Winter Wonderland display, the Florida Botanical Gardens are a great place to explore at any time of the year. The gardens feature a vast array of plants and flowers native to Florida, and there are plenty of walking trails to explore. Additionally, there are regularly scheduled educational programs and events throughout the year, making it a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.

In conclusion, if you are visiting Tampa in December, make sure to add a visit to Winter Wonderland at the Florida Botanical Gardens to your itinerary. This magical display of holiday lights is sure to get you into the holiday spirit and provide memories that will last a lifetime.

Ride the polar express at the Florida Railroad Museum

Are you looking for a unique way to celebrate the holiday season in Tampa? Look no further than the Florida Railroad Museum's Polar Express experience!

Located just south of Tampa in Parrish, FL, the Florida Railroad Museum offers a magical journey inspired by the beloved children's book and movie, The Polar Express. The experience begins as soon as you arrive, with festive decorations and holiday cheer throughout the station. Don't forget to wear your pajamas to truly feel like you're aboard the Polar Express!

Once on board the train, be prepared for an hour-long journey through the Florida countryside. Along the way, you will enjoy hot cocoa and cookies just like in the book. The train's chefs also offer an upgrade to your hot cocoa with a splash of peppermint or your cookie with a scoop of ice cream - a special treat for both kids and adults!

The journey culminates in a visit to the "North Pole," where Santa and his elves are waiting to greet you. The excitement continues as Santa boards the train and personally delivers a silver bell to each child - a cherished keepsake from their Polar Express adventure.

The entire experience lasts about two hours and is suitable for all ages. It's the perfect way to create lasting family memories and truly get into the holiday spirit.

Tickets for the Polar Express experience can sell out quickly, so be sure to book in advance online. There are also opportunities to volunteer and even act as a conductor, so check the Florida Railroad Museum's website for more information.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a unique and unforgettable holiday experience in Tampa, look no further than the Polar Express at the Florida Railroad Museum. Hop aboard and let the magic take over for a memorable journey you and your family will never forget!

Check out the annual Holiday Lights in the Gardens at the Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo

As winter approaches and the holiday season begins, Tampa and its surrounding areas become festive with numerous holiday-themed events. One such event that you should not miss is the annual Holiday Lights in the Gardens at the Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo.

Located just 30 minutes from Tampa, The Florida Botanical Gardens is a beautiful 100-acre garden that showcases a variety of native and exotic plants. During the holiday season, the garden comes alive with over one million twinkling lights that illuminate the gardens' paths, trees, and plants.

Holiday Lights in the Gardens is an annual tradition that draws visitors from all over the state. It is a perfect family-friendly event that is enjoyable for all ages. The gardens are transformed into a winter wonderland, and visitors can walk through the illuminated pathways while enjoying seasonal music, food, and drinks.

The special event also features live entertainment, a gift shop, and visits from Santa. Educational exhibits and interactive displays showcase the garden's plant life while educating visitors about the Garden's conservation efforts, making it an engaging and educational experience.

One of the highlights of the Holiday Lights in the Gardens is the 60-foot-tall Christmas tree that is adorned with dazzling lights. The sight of this enormous tree is sure to leave visitors in awe and adds to the festive feel of this seasonal event.

If you're planning to visit the Florida Botanical Gardens during December, make sure you don't miss this spectacular light show. The event runs from the beginning of December to the first week of January every year, and tickets can be purchased online or on-site. It's a perfect way to kick off the holiday season with your family and friends and enjoy the winter wonderland that is the Florida Botanical Gardens.

Frequently asked questions