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Winter weekend guide in Tampa Bay, FL

A look at the best places to view lights, sip a cocktail, or enjoy winter activities around Tampa Bay, FL.

A hand with bright red nail polish holds a mug resembling Santa's pants and boots filled with crushed ice, herbs, and candy-striped straw and umbrella.

Just because it doesn’t snow doesn’t mean we have to let winter go.

Table of Contents

Spirits are high, and seasons are bright. We’ve put together some local winter activities, restaurants, and experiences to spruce up your winter weekends.

👟 Start with a stroll

Enjoy the lights and decorations around Tampa Bay by moseying around these festive locations.

  • Symphony in Lights at the Shops at Wiregrass will be on display nightly from 6-9 p.m. through December. Shop for holiday gifts, then enjoy the dazzling lights and holiday harmonies.
  • The Winter Village lights up Curtis Hixon Park with festive cheer. Grab a drink from the café and enjoy the Tampa River Walk all aglow.
  • The Temple Terrace neighborhood puts on a light show every year, and this one can be enjoyed from the comfort of your car. Check-in on its Facebook page for updates.

🥂 Cheery cheers

We highly suggest grabbing a drink or festive bite with one of these holiday pop-ups.

❄️ Winter Activities

  • Do figure-eights at Tampa’s only outdoor skating rink at Winter Village. Individual tickets are $17 and include skate rentals.
  • History buffs should head to the Henry B. Plant Museum (401 W. Kennedy Blvd.) for the Victorian Christmas Stroll, which offers a look into the history of Christmases past. Tickets are $18 for adults.
  • ZooTampa hosts one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays. Take the family to Christmas in the Wild, which offers six different festive realms, shows, and the Twinkletown Marketplace.
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