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Tampa Bay Festival of Lights & Santa's Village
Immerse yourself in a dazzling holiday wonderland at the Tampa Bay Festival of Lights & Santa's Village. This expanded event features over 1.5 million lights, a nearly 2-mile drive-thru light spectacular with an animated tunnel, and a festive Santa's Village. Enjoy themed rides, visits with Santa, holiday treats, and special entertainment. It's a magical experience for all ages.
What to Expect
Over 1.5 million lights in a 2-mile drive-thru experience.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking is FREE. Dedicated Handicap Parking is available in the Main Parking Lot.
- Pets: Well-behaved dogs and cats on a leash are welcome on Paws & Claus Nights (Dec 4 & 11).
Other Christmas Events Near Dover
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, magical, enchanting
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Paws & Claus Night: Bring pets for photos with Santa (Dec 4 & 11)
- Heroes Night: Discounted admission for military, police, fire, first responders (Dec 18)
- Group discounts available for parties of 20+.
Location
Event Details
Duration
5 weeks
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Laura J
- Kyndal Wynn
- Dennis Lee Band
- Ridge Country Band
Organizer
Greater Hillsborough County Fair Association
Food & Drink
Holiday treats and goodies available, including wine and ciders from Keel & Curley Winery.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Consider visiting on a 'Paws & Claus Night' to bring your well-behaved pets for a special photo with Santa.
- Active and retired military, police, fire, and first responders receive discounted admission on 'Heroes Night' (December 18th) by showing ID at the gate.
- Purchase tickets in advance for potential group discounts if you are bringing a large party of 20 or more.
- Plan your visit to Santa's Village before December 25th to ensure you can see Santa before he returns to the North Pole.
- Check the specific gate and village hours for each night, as they can vary, especially on weekends and holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ticket prices for the Tampa Bay Festival of Lights?
Carload tickets range from $25-$30 depending on whether Santa's Village is open. Mini-bus and charter bus passes are also available. Group discounts apply for parties of 20 or more.
Can I bring my pet to the event?
Pets are generally not allowed, except for properly documented service dogs. However, on 'Paws & Claus Nights' (December 4th and 11th), well-behaved dogs and cats on a leash are welcome for pet photos with Santa.
What are the operating hours for the event?
Gates open nightly at 6 PM. Specific hours for the drive-thru experience and Santa's Village vary by date, so it's best to check the event calendar for precise times.
Is parking available at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds?
Yes, parking is FREE at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. Dedicated handicap parking is also available in the main parking lot.
What activities are available in Santa's Village?
Santa's Village offers visits and photos with Santa, craft stations, face painting, holiday movies, a petting zoo, camel rides, holiday rides like the Reindeer Carousel, and a Holiday Market.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.