01 December . 2015
Tampa’s Iconic Holiday Events
Sure, the temperature has been in the 80s for most of November. But the Holidays are right around the corner, and that means it’s time to enjoy some of Tampa’s iconic holiday events. From downtown ice skating to boat parades, there’s so much to enjoy. The holiday celebrations below are great for a family outing, or bring your visiting relatives and friends to enjoy all that our area has to offer.
Downtown Tampa Ice Rink
This is as close as most Floridians will get to an outdoor skating venue. The enormous white tent erected at Curtis Hixon Plaza houses a small ice skating rink that will be open daily until January 3. You can even skate on Christmas Day. The $12 admission fee includes a 90-minute session and skate rental. Curtis Hixon Park, 600 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa.
Holiday Classic Movies at Tampa Theatre
While you’re downtown, head over to one of Tampa’s cultural landmarks, Tampa Theatre. Their Holiday Movie series offers a new film each weekend. This year’s selections include Miracle on 34th Street, Holiday Inn, White Christmas, It’s a Wonderful Life and Home Alone. There’s nothing like watching these classics on the big screen. Before every show, enjoy a Christmas Carole sing-a-long featuring the mighty Wurlitzer organ. Tickets $10, $8 for children. Visit www.TampaTheatre.org for movies and show times.
Apollo Beach Lighted Boat Parade
Who doesn’t love a parade? And it’s even better when you add lighted boats on the water. The Tampa Sailing Squadron hosts this free annual event, which will be held on December 12 at 6:30 p.m. All area boaters are invited to register. The route begins at South channel towards Lands End Marina.
Snow on 7th Holiday Parade
Who says it doesn’t snow in Florida? There will be plenty of the white stuff in Ybor City at this year’s parade, which also features marching bands, floats and Santa. The December 12 event starts at 7pm and is free, but parking will cost $5.
Bright Nights
The exhibits at the Glazer Children’s Museum light up for the Holidays. As the museum’s website puts it, this new event transforms the museum “into an enchanted land of lights, seasonal music, and holiday cheer.” Bright Nights will be held Thursday and Friday nights from November 27 through December 18. Admission is $15, $10 for museum members. Visit www.glazermuseum.org for more details.