Celebrate the Holidays in Tampa Bay | 10+ Things to Do

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Magical Christmas lights in Tampa Bay

Discover dazzling lights and can’t-miss holiday events this season.

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Chick-fil-A Lights

The Chick-fil-A at Waters Ave. is a very special place in Tampa Bay. Enjoy one of the most incredible light displays, Christmas songs, lots of holiday cheer, and even Santa on specific dates! There’s a Target in the same plaza, so you could plan a to do your holiday shopping before or after.

Best neighborhoods to enjoy holiday lights in Tampa Bay

Experience the magic of the most dazzling holiday lights and decor!

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Sparkman Wharf

A lively waterfront area with festive lights and holiday-themed entertainment.

Water Street

Downtown Tampa’s sparkling streets come alive with seasonal décor and city lights.

Bayshore Boulevard

A scenic drive along the bay featuring classic holiday displays and charming home lights.

Indian Trails

A family-friendly neighborhood known for its creative and colorful Christmas decorations.

Lights of Park Estates

Drive through 3 miles of dazzling lights while supporting Suncoast Hospice’s community care.

Temple Terrace

Over 50K dancing lights synced to music on 95.5 FM—Temple Terrace’s must-see holiday show!

'Tis the season for a holiday treat

These spots always serve the best festive treats every holiday season.

Photo credit Mandarin Heights

Mandarin Heights

Their Holiday Cocktail menu is full of festive perfection! From peppermint espresso martinis to gingerbread old fashioneds, every sip feels like pure Christmas cheer.

Photo credit Stone Water Grill

Stone Water Grill

This spot is fully decked out in Christmas magic — glowing lights, endless trees, and dreamy waterfront views that make it feel festive the moment you walk in. With holiday cocktails like the Jack Frost and Dirty Santa Spritz, plus delicious bites, it’s the perfect place for a cozy, delicious holiday night out.

Photo credit The Vanilla Bean Bakery & Coffee Cottage

The Vanilla Bean Tampa

Feels like a Christmas cabin come to life, complete with twinkly décor and the coziest holiday drinks. We highly recommend their Candy Cane Coffee, Nutcracker, Snow Bird, Holiday Ginger Chai, and the Griswold!

JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort

Sip your way through the season at JW Marriott Clearwater Beach’s Holiday Pop-Up Bar! From December 1–31, enjoy festive cocktails like the Cotton Candy Martini, Ho-ho-ho Margarita, and Gingerbread Espresso Martini in a cheerful, holiday-filled lobby. Tap below to discover more ways to celebrate the holidays at JW Marriott Clearwater Beach!

Photo credit Xmas Bar

Xmas Bar

St. Pete just got a whole lot merrier! The Xmas Bar transforms 217 Central Ave into a dazzling winter wonderland. Created by the team behind local favorites like Goodnight John Boy and My Rich Uncle, this fully immersive holiday experience is packed with festive décor, themed nights, and signature seasonal drinks. Returning November 7, 2025.

Photo credit Small Giant

Jingle Bar on Water Street

Jingle All the Way to Small Giant! This Water Street gem has turned into the Jingle Bar, a winter holiday pop-up. Sip on seasonal drinks like the Sugar Cookie Martini, Mistletoe Martini, SG Eggnog, or the Boozy Iced Hot Chocolate. Returning November 2025.

Miracle at Strandhill

Step into a winter wonderland at Miracle at Strandhill, where holiday magic comes to life with festive cocktails and cozy décor. This seasonal pop-up offers a perfect blend of cheer, charm, and Christmas spirit for a memorable holiday experience! Returning November 19th, 2025.

Photo credit Willa's

Willa’s

While it’s not your traditional pop-up, this Tampa favorite is the perfect spot to celebrate the holiday season. Willa’s has decked its halls with tinsel, ornaments, towering Christmas trees, and nutcrackers!

Miracle at Mezzo

This festive holiday pop-up bar brings seasonal cheer with specialty cocktails, cozy vibes, and a whimsical winter wonderland atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to celebrate the holidays with friends and festive drinks, all in a fun, cozy setting.

Photo credit Sonder Social Club

Santa's Social Club

This pop-up brings the holiday magic with a jolly mix of specialty cocktails, festive décor, and plenty of holiday cheer. Whether you’re on the naughty or nice list, this pop-up is the place to be for holiday fun! Returning November 18th, 2025.

Photo credit Coco's Crush Bar OG

Coco’s Crush Bar OG

Coco’s has officially gone full “Naughty Village,” and honestly… we’re obsessed. With over-the-top holiday décor, life-size photo ops, a brand-new Chrush-mas drink tour, and festive cocktails galore, it’s the most wonderfully naughty Christmas bar on Clearwater Beach.

Photo credit Joy Bar

Joy Dive Bar

Although it’s not a holiday pop-up, this year-round Christmas bar is the ultimate place to celebrate the holidays—any day of the year! Tampa’s only Christmas-themed cocktail spot offers unlimited fun like a pool table, darts, a jukebox, and holiday-themed signature shots.

Photo credit Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach

Après Sea

Step into a coastal ski lodge without the cold—Après Sea is bringing all the cozy chalet vibes with twinkling décor, warming holiday cocktails, and a festive menu made for snuggly nights out. It’s the perfect spot to sip, snack, and pretend you just got off the slopes… Florida-style.

Where to donate

Discover where you can donate toys, food, and essentials to make a meaningful impact this holiday season.

A powerful way to give back

Volunteering during the holidays is one of the most meaningful ways to support our community, whether you’re helping at a local food bank, serving meals, or wrapping gifts for families in need. Even a few hours can make a huge impact and help brighten someone’s season!

Holiday day trips in Florida

Experience holiday thrills and winter "chills" around Florida.

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Curated by

DanielaP. CamejoSanchez

Content Writer ☕️