Things To Do in Tampa This Weekend: December 19-December 21
The holiday season in Tampa Bay is full of excitement, with a variety of sporting events, stage performances, and other family activities.
Mikey Keene of UCF poses with fans for a selfie after defeating Florida in the 2021 Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl at Raymond James Stadium.
Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty ImagesThe holiday season in Tampa Bay is full of excitement, with a variety of sporting events, stage performances, and other family activities. Whether it's attending a football game, watching a Broadway-style show, or just taking in the sights of the beautiful winter displays, Tampa has many ways to celebrate the holiday season. There's no shortage of seasonal fun for everyone, ranging from fantastic attractions to age-old traditions.
Gasparilla Bowl
Tampa's weekend events include football for sports lovers:
- What: Tampa's festive football showdown
- When: Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, at 2:30 p.m.
- Where: Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa
- Cost: Tickets start at $71
The Gasparilla Bowl is a celebration between some of the best college football teams in the country. This fun and exciting event reflects the Gasparilla pirate-themed traditions of the Tampa Bay area, with events leading up to the game. From community events to game day activities, this game has become a highlight of holiday sports in Tampa.
"A Very Broadway Christmas"
Weekend activities in Tampa include a holiday musical celebration:
- What: A dazzling Broadway holiday event
- When: Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
- Where: Duke Energy Center for the Arts, Mahaffey Theater, 400 First St. South, St Petersburg
- Cost: Tickets start at $50
"A Very Broadway Christmas" is an energetic theatrical production, featuring stars from over 25 of Broadway's most popular shows, a live band playing all your favorite Christmas songs, dancers, and much more. "A Very Broadway Christmas" has something for everyone and provides each audience member with a fun, unforgettable experience in a unique Christmas celebration.
Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Tampa events this December include a winter wonderland for the whole family:
- What: Tampa Bay's holiday wonderland
- When: Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, and Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (additional dates available through Jan. 5, 2026)
- Where: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 10165 McKinley Drive, Tampa
- Cost: Included with park admission, starting at $79.99
Experience the holiday magic at Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. This winter wonderland transforms the park into a festive dreamscape filled with twinkling lights, lively entertainment, and holiday cheer. While walking across the illuminated pathways, guests will enjoy epic performances, such as ice skating and synchronized drone light shows. They will have opportunities to meet beloved characters, including Santa and Rudolph, experience seasonal food, and take some of their favorite rides among the holiday lights.
Other Events
The Tampa Bay area comes alive with festive charm as the holiday season brings glittering lights, community celebrations, and family-friendly adventures. There are plenty of opportunities to experience seasonal fun through waterfront shows, unique marketplaces, and interactive zoo exhibits.
- Tampa Holiday Lighted Boat Parade: Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, at 5 p.m. (Yacht StarShip) or 5:30 p.m. (Yacht StarShip II), 603 Channelside Drive, Tampa
- St. Pete Indie Holiday Festival: Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, from noon to 4 p.m. at Albert Whitted Park, 480 Bayshore Drive Southeast, St. Petersburg
- Christmas in the Wild: Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, through Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. (additional dates available through Dec. 31, 2025) at ZooTampa at Lowry Park, 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa
