Tampa’s annual tree lighting, parade and Santa Fest will help ring in the holiday season.

TAMPA – It’s time to celebrate the holidays in Tampa.

The official city of Tampa Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is scheduled for Friday (Dec. 2), and the annual holiday festival, Santa Fest, is scheduled for Saturday (Dec. 3).  Both events take place at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 600 N Ashley Drive.

The tree lighting festivities begin at 6 p.m. with hosts Keith Cate from News Channel 8 and Chad and Kristi from the Magic Morning Show. Live musical performances include the high energy sounds of the Late Night Brass and a special performance by singer Belinda Womack. There will be seasonal foods, costumed characters, and a children’s bounce house.

Immediately after the tree lighting (about 8:15 p.m.) there will be a free showing of the holiday movie Elf, starring Will Ferrell. Tampa’s Downtown on Ice will be open until 10 p.m. Skating is $10 for 90 minutes including skates.

On Saturday, Tampa’s Downtown Holiday Parade steps off at 11 a.m. The parade will begin at Pierce and Madison streets.  It will travel west on Madison Street to Ashley Drive, turn north on Ashley Drive and end at Cass Street. Best parade viewing will be along Madison Street.

The City’s annual holiday festival, Santa Fest, a 28-year family tradition will take place from noon to 5 p.m. after the parade at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. The young and young at heart will enjoy continuous holiday entertainment, make-n-take crafts, hands-on games and activities, phone calls to Santa’s Workshop, and have their photos taken with Santa for free! Tampa’s Downtown on Ice will be offering a Santa Fest special — $5 for 30 minutes including skates.

Tampa’s Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa Fest are produced by the Friends of Tampa Recreation and the city of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department.

Tampa | Tree Lighting | Christmas Parade | Santa Fest | Events | Things to Do | TB Reporter

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