Things To Do in Tampa This Weekend: December 12-December 14

The Tampa events this December include unique activities and flavors such as Christmas in the Country, Jingle Bell Bazaar, the Taste of Tampa and more.

Two glasses with hot mulled wine with orange and spices on a wooden background with christmas decorations. Traditional drink on winter holiday
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The Tampa events this December include unique activities and flavors such as Christmas in the Country at Cracker Country, Jingle Bell Bazaar in Ybor City, the Taste of Tampa Festival, and more. Visitors to Tampa can experience local holiday traditions, shop for one-of-a-kind gifts, and savor the area's best culinary offerings.

Christmas in the Country at Cracker Country

  • What: Step back into a 19th-century Florida Christmas
  • When: Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Where: Florida State Fair Authority, 4800 U.S. Highway 301, Tampa
  • Cost: Adults 12 and up: $14; Seniors: $12; Students ages 6-11: $12, and Kids under five are free

Christmas in the Country at Cracker Country invites families to step back in time and experience the warmth and charm of a 19th-century Florida holiday. Guests can explore historic buildings decorated for the season, enjoy carols and traditional crafts, and learn how past celebrations differ from today. Visitors can make keepsake ornaments, try pioneer chores, including butter churning and washboard laundry, or enjoy add-on experiences such as beeswax candle dipping and indigo dyeing.

Jingle Bell Bazaar at Ybor

  • What: Festive Ybor celebration of local vendors, music, and holiday cheer
  • When: Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, from noon to 6 p.m.
  • Where: Centennial Park, 1800 E. 8th Avenue, Tampa
  • Cost: Free admission; vendors will have items available for purchase

Jingle Bell Bazaar in Ybor represents a wonderful transformation of a historic district into a vibrant community during the holidays and is filled with holiday spirit. Visitors will find unique handcrafted gifts and local artwork, delicious holiday fare from food trucks, and live music and dance performances. Families and children can make crafts, take pictures, and have some holiday fun in Santa's Village, creating a warm community experience for all ages.

Taste of Tampa Festival

  • What: Flavorful celebration of Tampa's food, culture, and community
  • When: Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, from noon to 6 p.m.
  • Where: Hillsborough College, 4100 W. Tampa Bay Blvd., Tampa
  • Cost: Free (VIP options available at extra cost)

The Taste of Tampa Festival is an annual event that promotes Tampa's wonderful food, exciting music, and lively communities. Attendees can sample cuisine from some of the best restaurants in the area, interact with prominent Tampa personalities, and explore the area's culinary offerings. One of the highlights of the event is trying to set a world record for the longest Cuban sandwich, which will then be donated to local charities.

Other Events

The Tampa activities this weekend provide holiday fun for everyone, whether you're looking for something outside or a little more magical during the season. The city offers plenty of ways to soak in the joy of the season:

  • SKECHERS Hot Chocolate Run: Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, at 7 a.m. at Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park, 601 Water St., Tampa
  • Ice Rink at Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park: Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 13, and Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, from noon to 11 p.m. at Curtis Hixon Park, 600 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa
  • Christmas in the Wild: Friday, Dec. 12 through Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. (additional dates are available through Dec. 31, 2025) at ZooTampa at Lowry Park, 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa