The holiday season in Florida is, well, unique. We replace the snow with sunshine. Hot cocoa with iced coffees. Sweaters are normally in the form of sweater tanks so we don’t overheat. It takes us some extra effort to get it feeling like December around here. Not that it’s a bad thing. I definitely don’t take it for granted that I can wear a cute dress to a holiday party without the hassle of having to cover it up with a giant coat.
I told Ben that I wanted to make sure we went to some holiday events this year around Tampa Bay to get us into the spirit of all things JOLLY.
After doing some research, I thought it would be fun to share some of the events that I found with you guys. These are sure to help ignite all that is merry inside of you (and me) this holiday season! From fake snow falls, to holiday inspired cocktails, sweater parties (in AC filled rooms hopefully), and more – check out my list of what’s happening around the Bay during this holly jolly season.
Holiday Lights at Largo Central Park: This event is one I’m really looking forward to and it’s not that far from my house. This was actually a family tradition for a while (no idea why it stopped). I remember that my whole family used to slowly stroll through Largo Park looking at the light displays oooh’ing and ahhh’ing. Depending on the weather, we might have hot cocoas in hand. I won’t lie – I miss this tradition. That’s why I’m so excited to bring it back for Ben and I.
Dates: November 22nd – January 1st
More information here
Miracle at Mezzo: Y’all this sounds so cool. Miracle is a holiday themed pop up bar that has graced the city of St. Pete with its presence inside of Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails. I’ve seen the photos on Instagram and I’m OBSESSED. It basically looks like Santa snapped his fingers and decked the halls, bar, and drink menu at Intermezzo.
Dates: November 23 – December 31st
More information here
Winterland Tampa: Sticking with the theme of holiday pop up bars, The Godfrey hotel and cabanas in Tampa is hosting Winterland. They have a calendar full of holiday themed events for the month of December. Ben and I visited Winterland last week with friends. They had cabanas decked out in different holiday themes that made for perfect Instagram opportunities. There was no shortage of lights strung about. Hanging out poolside with drinks in hand while Christmas music played made for a pretty fantastic evening.
Dates: December 5th – December 31st
More information here
Downtown Tampa Holiday Boat Parade: Ben and I went to this last year with his family while they were in town. So cool. We grabbed drinks at one of the vendors and perched in a few different spots to get views of the boats as they went by. Make sure you go early if you want a good viewing spot.
Date: December 22nd
More information here
Ugly Sweater Pawty @ Dog Bar St. Pete: Dog Bar has been on my list to visit for a while. I know Nash would love it! They are having an ugly sweater PAWTY at their place on the 21st. Dress up puppo in a Christmas sweater and head to Dog Bar for drinks, craft canine treats, and more.
Date: December 21st
More information here
International Plaza’s Santa Paws Photo with Santa: Because we all love a good pup friendly event, here’s another one to check out. International Plaza is allowing you to bring your furry BFF along to get a photo with the man in red himself. How PAWsome is that?
Date: December 16th
More information here
(Select PetSmart stores are also offering this. Use their store locator + event schedule to see if your local PetSmart is participating)
Safety Harbor Holiday Parade: Downtown Safety Harbor is already adorable year-round, so I can only imagine how cute it is during the holidays. The city has a holiday parade that runs right down the main strip.
Date: December 15th
More information here
Snow on Bay Street: FLORIDA FRIENDS REJOICE! International Plaza and Bay Street is here for all of your Instagram needs with their nightly fake snowfall.
Dates: November 23rd – 31st
More information here
Free Movie in the Park: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: THIS MOVIE IS CLASSIC. You can catch it playing for free at Station Square Park in Clearwater.
Date: December 16th
More information here
For the commenters: are you planning to attend any of these events? Have you been to any of them in past years? What other events are happening around Tampa Bay that you’re interested in?