Christmas in Tampa Bay: Snow, Holiday Boat Parades, Tree Lightings & More!
Dunedin Holiday Boat Parade & Old Fashioned Christmas Celebration
Location: Dunedin, Florida
Cost: All activities are free!
2023 Date: December 2nd at 6pm (the event always takes place the first Saturday of December)
Dunedin is home to one of the Gulf Coast’s most charming historic downtowns. December is the perfect time of the year to visit as the community hosts a festive Christmas boat parade. This unique event is a great opportunity to do something different for Christmas, especially if you are from a cold city. The boats are all magnificently decorated. On the last boat, Santa arrives to light the town tree. Holiday music accompanies the lighting, as well as a make your own S’Mores station.
Arrive early to find parking and check out the unique shops and restaurants lining Main Street. Cork and Beans is a beautiful place to stop for a cup of coffee or glass of wine. In terms of food, The Living Room on Main is an eclectic international option. In addition, be sure to add the Dunedin Old Fashioned Christmas & Holiday Parade to your holiday lineup. A few of the fun events and activities on this special night include: fake snow along Main Street, carriage rides, a snow slide, and a holiday themed parade.
Largo Central Park Holiday Lights
Location: Largo, Florida
Cost: Free! Extra fee for rides.
2023 Dates: November 23rd-December 31st 5-10pm
Largo, a Tampa suburb located halfway between St. Pete and Clearwater, offers a wonderful free holiday event for the whole family to enjoy. The park is lit up with a million beautiful lights and light displays. A stroll around is the perfect affordable holiday activity. Nothing quite gets you into the holiday spirit like a beautiful light display. There are plenty of unique Florida inspired lights such as beautiful candy cane lit palm trees and flamingo displays.
Each year, the park offers a special night of fun seasonal activities, including: the tree lighting, live music, visits with Santa, a snow slide, and holiday crafts. If you are looking for a romantic stroll, visit on a regular night. If you are looking for a lineup of festive activities and do not mind hefty crowds, then plan for the Holiday Stroll event. Carousel and Ferris Wheel rides available for $6 pp.
Festive displays over the years
