The beloved Santa Parade Tampa is back, and this year’s celebration promises to be bigger, brighter, and more joy-packed than ever. This annual tradition transforms downtown into a festive wonderland, blending a lively parade with a dazzling tree lighting spectacle that brings the community together in unforgettable holiday spirit. Thousands gather at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, eager for a day overflowing with fun, music, and Christmas cheer.
A Festive Afternoon Filled With Holiday Magic
Tampa announces “Santa parade, tree lighting celebration downtown” with an energy that feels like the city sprinkled extra sparkle on the season. The festivities kick off at 1 PM with the iconic Santa Fest Parade. The route begins at Morgan Street, rolls along Madison Street, and heads up Ashley Drive before wrapping at Cass Street. Families line Madison Street, the prime viewing spot, to catch marching bands, giant floats, and Santa waving like he’s campaigning for everyone’s vote.
The excitement continues at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, where kids and adults dive into activities like holiday crafts, bounce houses, face painting, ice skating, and photo ops. The celebration truly turns the area into a vibrant North Pole block party. Visit the official City of Tampa website (tampa.gov) and follow the city’s social media channels like Facebook (@CityofTampa) and Instagram (@cityoftampa) for updates.
Curtis Hixon Glows as Tampa Flips the Switch
Things shift into full sparkle mode at 6 PM, when Tampa’s ShowStars take the stage to launch the official Tree Lighting Ceremony. WFLA’s Chief Meteorologist Jeff Berardelli joins Mayor Castor for the big moment—lighting not one but seven Christmas trees. The space transforms instantly into a glowing winter spectacle, offering picture-perfect views and festive music that makes the whole city feel wrapped in holiday magic.
As the lights power up the night, families gather under the warm glow, soaking in the electric joy of the season. This ceremony has become one of Tampa’s most iconic holiday traditions, drawing locals, tourists, and Christmas lovers from everywhere.
A Free Outdoor Movie to End the Night
To top off the holiday fun, the evening ends with a free outdoor screening of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Bring blankets, gather your favorite snacks, and settle in under the stars with the Tampa skyline twinkling behind the screen. The city continues to make this event incredibly accessible—admission is free, creating a warm, welcoming celebration for all.
For more details about schedules, parking, and event updates, visit the official site: tampa.gov or follow the City of Tampa on Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter).
Get Ready for Tampa’s Biggest Holiday Glow-Up
From the lively Santa Parade Tampa to the jaw-dropping switch-on of seven Christmas trees, this event is everything a holiday celebration should be: bright, joyful, and completely unforgettable. Downtown becomes a festive playground, and the energy is contagious.
Don’t miss it—this is the kind of magic that kicks off the whole season.
Want the inside scoop on Tampa’s next holiday events, hidden festivities, and surprise pop-ups? Stay tuned — the sparkle is just getting started.
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