Weekends with kids can feel like a high-stakes blend of cruise director, camp counselor, and mild hostage negotiator—but fear not. Tampa is stacked with kid-friendly events Tampa families will actually enjoy, giving your little ones room to burn energy, explore, and (with luck) not smear yogurt into your car’s upholstery. From glowing villages to Broadway-level chaos, this weekend is loaded with fun. Be sure to submit your own events to our calendar, check back each Wednesday for updates, and explore our full weekend events roundup for even more ideas.
A Christmas Story: The Musical
All Weekend, November 28–30, Various Times
Straz Center, 1010 N MacInnes Pl
Ralphie, the infamous Red Ryder BB gun, and that “indecent” leg lamp come to life in this Broadway-style spectacle bursting with holiday magic, musical numbers, and family nostalgia. “A Christmas Story: The Musical” spins childhood chaos into a glittering theatrical experience—frozen flagpoles and mall Santas included. Whether you’re reliving the past or introducing new memories, this show is a triple-dog-dare you’ll be glad you accepted.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens
All Weekend, November 28–30, Various Times
Busch Gardens, 10165 McKinley Dr
Busch Gardens becomes a glowing winter wonderland, overflowing with twinkle lights, live entertainment, and corporate-sponsored cheer during “Christmas Town.” Sip hot cocoa next to a 40-foot nutcracker, take selfies with Rudolph, and watch ice skaters do things science still can’t explain. Bonus: It’s all included with park admission, which means guilt-free rollercoaster rides wrapped in holiday sparkle.
Gingerbread Village at Glazer Children’s Museum
All Weekend, November 28–30, 9:30 AM – 5 PM
Glazer Children’s Museum, 110 W Gasparilla Plaza
If your child dreams of building a cardboard skyscraper, a glitter-glued townhouse, or something architecturally questionable, “Gingerbread Village” is their playground. This hands-on crafting zone blends creative play, holiday fun, and child-led design using recycled materials. Add your creations to the museum’s growing village—or take them home and call it “modern art.”
Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
All Weekend, November 28–30, Various Times
600 N Ashley Dr
Winter Village turns downtown into a festive holiday hub filled with ice skating, light shows, and a silent disco guaranteed to get even Santa moving. Shop from local vendors, cruise the river under twinkling lights, or challenge your friends to a curling match. The Sunday “Winter Village Express” streetcar ride brings cozy Polar Express vibes—except with Ybor chickens and fresh cookies.
Champs Holiday Run Club
Saturday, November 29, 8 AM – 11 AM
Armature Works, 1910 N Ola Ave
Get your heart rate up and your holiday cheer flowing with the Champs Holiday Run Club—a mix of festive cardio, snow machines, and family fitness fun. Powered by ASICS, this run is loaded with prize wheels, DJs, giant holiday photo ops, and post-run donuts because balance is important. FLX members can score even more freebies, turning your morning jog into a reward-filled celebration.
Miracle on 34th Street at Tampa Theatre
Sunday, November 30, 3 PM – 5 PM
Tampa Theatre, 711 N Franklin St
Step into Tampa Theatre’s dreamy, vintage interior for a screening of the timeless classic “Miracle on 34th Street.” Expect heartwarming cinema, free Santa photos, and holiday nostalgia that still delivers sparkle 78 years later. If this film doesn’t charm you, it might be time to check your pulse—Dr. Kris Kringle is in.
Riverwalk Tree Lighting
Sunday, November 30, 4 PM – 7 PM
Tampa Convention Center, 333 S Franklin St
The 5th Annual Riverwalk Tree Lighting sets Tampa’s holiday season into full sparkle mode. With live entertainment, waterfront views, and family festivities, the night reaches peak Florida energy when Mayor Castor arrives by Pirate Water Taxi like a festive sea captain. It’s free, fun, and bright enough to light the city—and your kid’s mood—for the whole weekend.
Ready for More? Stick around—because next week Tampa’s holiday energy gets even bigger, brighter, and a whole lot merrier. You won’t want to miss what’s coming.
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