The holidays are an exciting time of year; luckily for Greater Tampa Bay residents and visitors, festivities and activities abound this time of year.
Florida might not have snow for the holidays, but it offers a magical ambiance as Christmas lights sparkle and reflect off its beautiful waters. Grab family members and friends and explore all of the wonderful outdoor activities GTB offers this holiday season.
Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
Shop and sip drinks at the café, or ice skate at Downtown Tampa’s only outdoor ice rink. The Winter Village is free, but some activities will require admission. Event runs from Nov. 18, 2022 to Jan. 4, 2023.
Snowcat Ridge Alpine Snow Park
With the promise of “real snow, real fun,” hit the slopes and enjoy the day skiing in a winter wonderland at Florida’s only snow park. Cozy up to a campfire and roast s’mores while taking in the nightly Snowy Slopes Music & Light Show. Snowcat Ridge’s Alpine Village also offers a variety of outlets offering food, drinks, and shopping.
Busch Gardens Christmas Town
With decorations strung out across the park, Busch Gardens Christmas Townis a holiday event like no other. Enjoy thrilling rides at night, watch holiday shows, eat at restaurants all around the park, and more. Christmas on Ice and fireworks are also offered this year from Nov.19, 2022 to Jan. 4, 2023.
Tree Lighting Shows
Tree lighting ceremonies shimmer and shine throughout Tampa Bay at many outdoor locations, including Curtis Hixon Park, Safety Harbor, and more.
Holiday Boat Parades
What could be better than seeing boats decorated with festive lights, holiday inflatables and more? Here are a few of the many boat parades GTB offers:
- Tampa Riverwalk Holiday Lighted Boat Parade . Dec. 17 at 6 p.m.
- Tarpon Springs Holiday Boat Parade Dec. 2 from 8 – 10 p.m.
- 37th Annual Treasure Island Holiday Lighted Boat Parade Dec. 17 at 5 p.m.
Ice Skating
Ice skating in Florida? Absolutely. Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park and Winter Beach at St. Pete Pier are excellent options to enjoy ice skating during the holiday season in GTB.
Holiday Movies
Curtis Hixon Park with Winter Village offer a series of free outdoor movies during the holiday season. Cozy up with a blanket and enjoy a Christmas classic.
Volunteer
Helping those in need is at the heart of the holidays. Consider volunteering with an organization such as Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful or Feeding Tampa Bay, and give back this season.
Be Merry
Celebrating the holiday season outdoors is easy to do in GTB. With beautiful scenery all around and communities prioritizing the importance of gathering together and lifting spirits, there is certainly no shortage of festivities.
By Meredith Biesinger.
