Last updated: November 11, 2024
Get an overview of the festive season in Westchase. Our guide includes all the key events and activities to ensure you don’t miss out on any holiday fun. Whether you call Westchase home or are exploring it for the first time, our guide unlocks all the festive secrets.
This year, take a stroll through Christmas Town at Busch Gardens, where enchanting lights and seasonal joy illuminate the park. If you prefer an outdoor experience, the Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park offers a delightful marketplace filled with local crafts and delicious seasonal treats. And the Holiday Spectacular at Tampa Riverwalk is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring a vibrant display of lights alongside beautiful waterfront views. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Westchase Holiday Light Displays
Holiday Spectacular at Tampa Riverwalk
- What to Expect
- Unique floating light displays along the Hillsborough River.
- Description
- The Holiday Spectacular at Tampa Riverwalk features a 35-foot-tall LED Christmas tree floating in the harbor, festive light displays, and interactive installations like a holiday selfie station and gingerbread house.
- Where
- Tampa | More Info : Holiday Spectacular at Tampa Riverwalk
River of Christmas Lights with Pirate Water Taxi
- What to Expect
- Unique pirate journey through Tampa's illuminated holiday lights.
- Description
- Embark on a 2-hour adventure with Pirate Water Taxi through Tampa's illuminated Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, featuring a jolly ride along the city's beautifully decorated waterways.
- Where
- Tampa | More Info : River of Christmas Lights with Pirate Water Taxi
Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa
- What to Expect
- Holiday celebration in a zoo setting
- Description
- This vibrant holiday event transforms the zoo into a winter wonderland, featuring stunning light displays and captivating decorations. Guests can stroll through the beautifully illuminated pathways while enjoying seasonal treats and special activities. Families can meet beloved holiday characters and participate in themed experiences that enhance their visit.
- Where
- Tampa | More Info : Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa
Westchase Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens
- What to Expect
- Holiday celebration with animal encounters and festive shows.
- Description
- Celebrate the holiday season at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with Christmas Town, featuring animal encounters, thrilling rides, holiday-inspired culinary delights, and festive shows like Christmas on Ice. Enjoy twinkling lights and dazzling fireworks throughout the park.
- Where
- Tampa | More Info : Christmas Town at Busch Gardens
The Florida Orchestra Holiday Pops
- What to Expect
- World-class holiday concert with classic favorites.
- Description
- The Florida Orchestra's Holiday Pops is a cherished holiday tradition in Tampa Bay, featuring classic favorites performed by world-class musicians under the direction of Chelsea Gallo. This event is a delightful experience for the whole family.
- Where
- Tampa/St. Pete/Clearwater | More Info : The Florida Orchestra Holiday Pops
Cirque Dreams Holidaze at The Straz Center
- What to Expect
- Dazzling acrobatic performances and holiday song twists.
- Description
- Cirque Dreams Holidaze is a dazzling holiday celebration featuring acrobats, dancers, and contortionists bringing holiday stories to life on stage. Classic holiday songs get a twist, making it the perfect way to extend your holiday whimsy.
- Where
- Tampa | More Info : Cirque Dreams Holidaze at The Straz Center
Westchase Other Holiday Activities
Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
- What to Expect
- Interactive holiday experience with ice skating and curling.
- Description
- Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park transforms the waterfront area into a holiday destination with an ice skating rink, curling arena, magical train rides, vendor market, and festive lights display.
- Where
- Tampa | More Info : Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
Cracker Country - Christmas in the Country
- What to Expect
- Hands-on historical interpretations and traditional decorations.
- Description
- Celebrate a 19th-century Florida Christmas at Cracker Country, featuring seasonal décor, music, and traditions in 13 original buildings. Enjoy hands-on activities like churning butter, making pine needle baskets, and dipping beeswax candles. Explore the General Store for unique holiday gifts and support field trip programs.
- Where
- Tampa | More Info : Cracker Country - Christmas in the Country