For those who want to get out and enjoy wonderful winter weather in Tampa, the holiday season provides some of the best opportunities for the year. Tampa Holiday Festivals are hosted in November and December and offer fun for every age group.
7 Tampa Holiday Festivals
The following are some of the best events in the Tampa area. And for those wanting to throw a holiday party of their own, be sure to check out the entertainment available through rental companies such as Air Fun Games in New Port Richey.
Conga Caliente
This annual festival features fantastic Latin musical performances, traditional ethnic food, a beer garden and an art village. It has grown to be one of the biggest festivals in the area. It will be held this year on Nov. 5 in Al Lopez Park. Admission is free. This year’s musical acts include Oscar D’Leon, Pedro Rivera, Andy Andy, Ailyn y La Makina Tibera.
The Great Gatsby Party
Held at the Fletcher Lounge on the campus of the University of Tampa, this party features a transformation of the lounge into a 1920s speakeasy. There will be “games of chance,” an open bar and plenty of live music. You can also get your picture made with a vintage 1929 Bentley. The party is set for Nov. 11, starting at 7:30 p.m.
Tampa Tree Lighting Ceremony
Kick off December with the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree in Curtis Hixon Park in downtown Tampa. The event will include a live band. Blankets, dogs and coolers are allowed. The ceremony begins at 6 p.m. on Dec. 1.
Santa Fest
A staple for decades, this annual event in Curtis Hixon Park kicks off the holiday season with the Downtown Tampa Holiday Parade. There will be games, crafts and activities for the kids, and of course a chance to meet Santa Clause. The event runs from noon to 4 p.m. on Dec. 2.
Ybor City Cigar Festival
This annual celebration of Tampa’s long-held “cigar culture” will take place this year in Centennial Park. There will be food, live music and of course a selection of some of the finest cigars available anywhere. The event is set for Dec. 3.
Victorian Christmas Stroll
One of Tampa’s signature events, the Victorian Christmas Stroll is held each year at the Henry B. Plant Museum on the campus of the University of Tampa. Guests walk through the museum which is decorated with Christmas items from the late 18th century, including antique trees and authentic clothes from the era. The stroll is open from Dec. 1-23.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens
For this annual event, the amusement park is transformed into a holiday wonderland with millions of holiday lights. There’s food and holiday gifts, as well, and a chance to visit with Santa Clause. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer will also be on hand. The event runs through December on select days at Busch Gardens.
These are some of the great attractions coming up in Tampa. Get out and enjoy the fantastic Tampa Holiday Festivals!
