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The holidays are here, and Tampa Bay is brimming with events that bring cheer, warmth, and magic to the season. From cosy evenings by the fire to festive concerts and bustling holiday markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Decadent Eats
S’mores By the Fire
- When: Wednesday, Dec. 4 | 5-9 p.m.
- Where: Armature Works
- Cost: $10
Roast marshmallows under the stars at South Lawn’s fire pit. Each kit makes two s’mores, perfect for sharing with your loved ones.
S’mores with Santa
- When: Friday, Dec. 13–Saturday, Dec. 14 | Times vary
- Where: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, St. Petersburg
- Cost: $5
Craft tasty s’mores and spend quality time with Santa by the fireside.
Cooking Class: Date Night
- When: Friday, Dec. 13, and Friday, Dec. 20 | 6:30-8:30 p.m.
- Where: 2735 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg
- Cost: $99
Learn to make mulled wine and mince pies in this interactive cooking class.
S’mores & Hot Cocoa Board Workshop
- When: Wednesday, Dec. 18 | 6-8 p.m.
- Where: Keel Farms, Plant City
- Cost: $40
Create a stunning s’mores and cocoa board that will dazzle your holiday guests.
Holiday Tunes
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
- When: Sunday, Dec. 15 | Times vary
- Where: Amalie Arena
- Cost: $60+
Enjoy the legendary rock band performing “The Lost Christmas Eve” live.
Holiday Pops with The Florida Orchestra
- When: Friday, Dec. 20–Sunday, Dec. 22 | Times vary
- Where: Multiple locations
- Cost: $23+
Immerse yourself in holiday classics like Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker and “The Polar Express.”
Fantastic Shows
Derek Hough Dance for the Holidays
- When: Wednesday, Dec. 4 | 7 p.m.
- Where: Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater
- Cost: $54+
The professional dancer showcases dazzling ballroom moves perfect for the season.
The Nutcracker Ballet
- When: Friday, Dec. 6–Sunday, Dec. 8 | Times vary
- Where: Palladium Theater, St. Petersburg
- Cost: $30
Clara battles the Mouse King in this beloved holiday classic.
Family-Friendly Events
Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village
- When: Tuesday, Dec. 3–Sunday, Dec. 29 | 6-10 p.m.
- Where: Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, Brandon
- Cost: $25+
Drive through a two-mile stretch of magical holiday lights, followed by a visit to Santa’s Village.
Winter Village
- When: Tuesday, Dec. 3–Sunday, Jan. 5 | 5-10 p.m.
- Where: Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
- Cost: Free
Enjoy ice skating, treats, and a themed streetcar ride through Tampa’s downtown.
Snowfest
- When: Saturday, Dec. 7 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Where: North Straub Park, St. Petersburg
- Cost: $5
Experience sledding on a snowy hill, holiday crafts, and games by the downtown waterfront.
Holiday Activities
Chase the Dreidel 5K
- When: Sunday, Dec. 8 | 300 58th St. N., St. Petersburg
- Cost: $45
Run a scenic 5K and enjoy post-race latkes and a bounce house for the kids.
Holiday Ornament Painting
- When: Monday, Dec. 9 | 6:30-8 p.m.
- Where: Armature Works
- Cost: $30
Paint Christmas ornaments while sipping a glass of wine for a relaxing evening.
Winter Markets
Small Wonders: 2024 Holiday Show + Sale
- When: Tuesday, Dec. 3–Friday, Jan. 10 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Where: Morean Arts Center, St. Petersburg
- Cost: Free
Take home unique artwork crafted by local artists, from ornaments to jewellery.
Water Street Holiday Promenade
- When: 5-9 p.m.
- Where: Water Street Tampa
- Cost: Free
Shop seasonal goods, grab a hot cocoa, and revel in the holiday magic of Water Street.
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