If you’re looking for things to do in Tampa this weekend, you’re in luck! Tampa, Florida, comes alive with festivals, events, and holiday spectacles that promise something for everyone. From dazzling lights to live music, quirky experiences, and family-friendly fun, the city’s weekend calendar is packed. Keep reading for the ultimate guide to make the most of your time this weekend.
Next Generation Ballet’s Nutcracker
📅 December 19-21 | ⏰ Various Times | 📍 Straz Center
Get ready for sugar plums, sword fighting rodents, and orchestral drama as the Next Generation Ballet brings back the beloved Nutcracker. With award-winning young dancers and guest stars from the New York City Ballet, the Straz Center sparkles with festive magic. This holiday spectacle fully commits to festive excess, creating a tradition that delights families and ballet lovers alike. Don’t miss this glittering show! More details: Straz Center.
Putt The Pier
📅 December 19-21 | ⏰ Various Times | 📍 Nature’s Walkway at The Pier
Mini golf meets holiday cheer at Nature’s Walkway at The Pier. With giant ornaments, candy cane tunnels, and twinkling obstacles, Putt The Pier delivers family fun with waterfront views. Perfect for date nights, family outings, or photo enthusiasts, the festive music and playful chaos make this a St. Pete tradition. Plan your visit: Putt The Pier Official Site.
Laser Light Shows
📅 Friday, December 19 | ⏰ 6:30 p.m.-8:15 p.m. | 📍 MOSI Saunders Planetarium
At MOSI’s Saunders Planetarium, laser visuals and dynamic music combine for an immersive holiday spectacle. The lights pulse in sync with classic holiday tunes, creating a dazzling experience for anyone who enjoys high-energy, festive entertainment. More info: MOSI.
Holiday Classics: It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
📅 Friday, December 19 | ⏰ 7:30 p.m.-10 p.m. | 📍 Tampa Theatre
Experience timeless holiday storytelling at Tampa Theatre. Watch George Bailey’s trials unfold in a movie that blends emotion, nostalgia, and holiday cheer. This classic reminds us all that no matter the hardships, hope and community make the season magical. Tickets and showtimes: Tampa Theatre.
Holiday Pops with The Florida Orchestra
📅 Friday, December 19 | ⏰ 8 p.m.-10 p.m. | 📍 Straz Center
The Straz Center fills with sweeping strings, bold brass, and festive music that turns December into a celebration of holiday grandeur, classical music, and cheer. Whether you’re a music lover or simply soaking in the festive spirit, this is a night to remember. Learn more: Florida Orchestra.
Machine Gun Kelly & Julia Wolf – Lost Americana 2025–26 Tour
📅 Friday, December 19 | ⏰ 8 p.m.-11 p.m. | 📍 Benchmark International Arena
Catch the high-energy concert at Benchmark International Arena as MGK delivers genre-hopping hits and unforgettable performances. Julia Wolf kicks off the night with a dynamic set, ensuring fans experience music, angst, and emotional release. For tickets: Benchmark Arena.
Holiday RiverFest
📅 Saturday, December 20 | ⏰ 2:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. | 📍 Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park
Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park hosts a full-day holiday extravaganza featuring live music, a glowing boat parade, wiener dog races, and an ugly sweater contest. Food, drinks, kids’ activities, and a charity Lane of Giving create a fun-filled, festive celebration for all ages. Check details: RiverFest Tampa.
Photos with Santa
📅 Saturday, December 20 | ⏰ 3 p.m.-5 p.m. | 📍 Sparkman Wharf
Capture memories with Santa at Sparkman Wharf. Complimentary photos make it easy to share holiday cheer while enjoying waterfront fun, festive magic, and family moments.
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
📅 Saturday, December 20 | ⏰ 6:15 p.m.-7:45 p.m. | 📍 Downtown Tampa Riverwalk
Downtown Tampa’s glowing boats transform the Hillsborough River into a dazzling spectacle. Spectators line the Riverwalk, marveling at floating gingerbread houses and festive lights. This growing tradition promises holiday excitement, waterfront views, and magical moments.
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Carolina Hurricanes
📅 Saturday, December 20 | ⏰ 7 p.m.-9:30 p.m. | 📍 Benchmark International Arena
The Bolts hit the ice, bringing speed, grit, and holiday intensity to hockey fans. Expect action, energy, and cheering as Carolina challenges Tampa Bay. Tickets: Tampa Bay Lightning.
Tampa Thrift Happy Holiday Sale
📅 Saturday & Sunday, December 20-21 | ⏰ Various Times | 📍 Tampa Thrift
Shop smart at Tampa Thrift with 50% off everything. From gifts to décor, this sale makes holiday shopping affordable, exciting, and festive. Don’t miss out! Learn more: Tampa Thrift.
Chicken Yoga with Yoga Loft Tampa and Ybor Misfits
📅 Sunday, December 21 | ⏰ 11 a.m.-12 p.m. | 📍 Hotel Haya
Find your balance and inner peace as friendly chickens roam freely. This quirky event supports the Ybor Misfits Microsanctuary and ends with coffee, champagne, and memorable photos. Details: Yoga Loft Tampa.
Skyline Scenes | Christmas Vacation
📅 Sunday, December 21 | ⏰ 7 p.m.-9:45 p.m. | 📍 The Tampa EDITION Rooftop
Enjoy Clark Griswold’s holiday chaos under the stars at The Tampa EDITION rooftop. With skyline views, cozy seating, and festive humor, this event perfectly blends holiday entertainment, scenic views, and classic fun. More info: The Tampa EDITION.
Weekend in Tampa Promise: Whether you’re in the mood for holiday cheer, high-energy concerts, quirky experiences, or family fun, Tampa has a festival, event, or show ready to make your weekend unforgettable. Stay tuned, because next weekend’s lineup might just outshine this one!
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