Tampa’s Santa Fest Returns Dec. 6 With Tree Lighting at Curtis Hixon Park

Tampa will host Santa Fest and the annual tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 6 at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Hours run from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.

It's free. Anyone can come.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park sits at 600 N. Ashley Drive in Tampa, where officials predict 4,998 attendees might show up for the festivities.

The 2025 Santa Fest brings back this tradition to the downtown spot after previous years. Tree lights will glow once festival activities wrap up.

Friends of Tampa Recreation runs the show. People wanting more details can visit friendsoftamparec.org.

You'll need to attend in person — no streaming or virtual options exist. City websites provide parking details and directions.

Dec. 6 lands on a Saturday this year, giving families eight hours to drop by whenever works best, from afternoon fun through evening sparkle.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park stretches along the Hillsborough River in downtown Tampa. This venue has welcomed the tree lighting for years now.

Tampa's government website groups this celebration with dozens of other seasonal happenings across the region, fitting snugly into winter events the city has lined up.

Residents can check Tampa's government events calendar for fresh updates and specifics. That page offers contact info and map links for anyone planning a trip.