Christmas in Florida is an experience unlike any other. While the golden beaches will probably never see a white Christmas, the state offers unique getaways for those who live where the rest of the world vacations.
The renowned theme parks and entertainment experiences create magical holidays attendees will remember for the rest of their lives. Locally, Tampa Bay has banded together to craft a hometown holiday season full of something for everyone.
Though most local cities have officially kicked off their holiday season, there are several festive events left to carry the public through until Christmas.
St. Petersburg’s Illuminated Boat Parade
The Rotary Club of St. Petersburg created a quintessential Florida Christmas event 31 years ago that people of all ages still adore. The Illuminated Boat Parade sets sail from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 9 at 401 Bayshore Drive NE. There are grandstand seats, food and drinks available for purchase and musical entertainment by the Southside Bulldogs. Tickets are $10.
Wonderland of Lights Tampa Bay
The Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce and North Pole Productions joined together again to create the Wonderland of Lights at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. The event runs Wednesday through Sunday nights until Dec. 12 when it will transition to a Monday through Sunday schedule until the end of the month. The event features light displays, a Christmas village and live entertainment. There are wagon rides, a North Pole train ride, amusement rides, food and crafts. Tickets start at $20 and the event is open from 6 to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 6 to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Winter Village
Skate for free at the ice rink in Curtis Hixon Park along the Hillsborough River. There are also 10 boutiques, a bar and a coffee kiosk set up on the Riverwalk. On Friday nights, the Tampa Theatre plays a classic Christmas movie on a giant screen set up in the park. Bring a blanket and pillows and settle in for a merry evening. During select Sundays between 3 and 8 p.m., riders can board the Winter Village Express themed Streetcar at the Centro Ybor or Whiting Station and enjoy music, food and activities during the ride.
Christmas in the Wild
Lowry Park Zoo has transformed into a Christmas wonderland for its Christmas in the Wild event. On Friday and Saturday nights until the end of December the zoo will remain open late for a festive night with the animals. There are carolers, story time with Mrs. Claus, a 50-foot tree, a holiday-themed animal show, a meet and greet with Santa and special themed activities with the animals.
The Zoo’s head chef has designed a special menu for the holiday season and there will be multiple themed areas throughout the zoo, including Santa’s Village, Holiday Hoedown and Polar Paradise. Lowry Park is also offering a special where guests pay for a day and can visit the rest of this year and all of 2018 for free. Guest also have the opportunity to witness the new baby pygmy hippopotamus, which was born on Dec. 1, just in time for Christmas.
Holidays at Universal Orlando
While local events allow residents to avoid massive crowds, Florida’s theme parks are offering new holiday magic. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is full of decorations, special holiday treats, special shows and The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts, which features a holiday projection show on the castle.
The annual Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular presents a live retelling of the classic Dr. Seuss holiday story. You can also meet Mr. Stink Stank Stunk himself at a photo opportunity in the park. A Grinch and Friends Character Breakfast is also available for purchase.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom has transformed into a Christmas utopia for the holiday season. On select nights in December the park shuts down from 7 p.m. to midnight for a special festive party. All of the rides and experiences remain open for the celebration, with reduced wait times due to the limited tickets.
Attendees can take part in Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, the Holiday Wishes fireworks, the Frozen Holiday Wish castle performance and more. There are themed stage shows, unique character experiences, free cookies and hot chocolate throughout the park and magical snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A.