2016 Tampa Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting: What to Know Before You Go

TAMPA, FL – The streets of downtown Tampa soon will come alive as it welcomes the sights and sounds of the season.

Between Friday, Dec. 2 and Saturday, Dec. 3, three of Tampa’s wintertime traditions will take place: The annual Christmas Tree Lighting, the 35th Annual Downtown Christmas Parade and Santa Fest.

The trio of events will bring holiday revelers to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and the downtown Tampa area. Here’s what area residents need to know before you to 2016 Christmas Events in Tampa:

Tampa’s Tree Lighting 2016

Tampa’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place annually on the first Friday in December. This year’s event takes place on Friday, Dec. 2 at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.

The festivities begin at 6 p.m. with a live performance from the Late Night Brass. Magic 94.9 will be on hand for their Secret Santa Giveaway.

The highlights of the event feature a countdown to the tree lighting with Mayor Bob Buckhorn and a free movie in the park featuring A Christmas Story. The Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park will also be open during the festivities, with ice skating, concessions and shopping.

Blankets, low-back chairs, coolers and dogs on leashes are allowed. Glass and alcohol are prohibited.

Admission is free.

2016 Downtown Tampa Christmas Parade

The 35th Annual Downtown Christmas Parade will take place Saturday, Dec. 3 at 11 a.m.

The parade will begin at the corner of Morgan and Madison streets and travel west on Madison Street to Ashley Drive. It will turn north on Ashley and end at Cass Street. According to the City of Tampa, the best viewing is along Madison Street.

The event is the kickoff for the city’s Santa Fest, which takes place immediately after the parade.

2016 Santa Fest

Tampa’s Santa Fest takes place Saturday, Dec. 3 from noon to 4 p.m. in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.

Surrounded by the festive Winter Village, Santa Fest features free photos with Santa Claus, continuous holiday entertainment, make-n-take holiday crafts plus hands-on games and activities.

The Winter Village will also be open during Santa Fest, featuring ice skating, concessions and the Winter Village Shops.

For more information, visit http://www.tampagov.net/.

Image courtesy of the City of Tampa Facebook page