ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Looking for plans this weekend around Tampa Bay? Whether you need some holiday cheer or you're just looking to soak in local culture and cuisine, we've got something for you!
Hometown Holiday
Lakeland's First Friday is transforming downtown into a winter wonderland with its "Hometown Holiday" event. It will be from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Dec. 3 in and around Munn Park.
People will be able to enjoy free photos with Santa, letters to Santa, games at Rudolph's Playground, and more free activities.
The city says downtown shops and restaurants will be open late, so you might be able to get in some holiday shopping, too!
For parking and more event information, click here.
Snowfest 2021
"There is snow in the forecast for Lakeland!," according to the city. That means it's time for the 41st Snowfest in downtown Lakeland.
The event will be from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Dec. 4 at Lake Mirror Park on the Frances Langford Promenade.
People will be able to walk through falling "snow," meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, visit Santa's workshop, and enjoy entertainment and food trucks.
Entry to the event is free, but event organizers are asking for canned food item donations to benefit Senior Orphans of Polk County.
For more information on the event, click here.
Ukulele Festival
The sixth annual Ukulele Festival is happening this weekend on two nights at two great locations: Friday, Dec. 3 at New World Brewery in Seminole Heights and Saturday, Dec. 4 at Cage Brewing in St. Petersburg. There will be food, drinks, and over a dozen live performances.
Proof of negative COVID test within the prior 72 hours required for entry or proof of full vaccination may be substituted for a negative test result.
Find more information here.
Whiskey Wonderland
Need some holiday spirit? Head to St.Pete this Saturday for Whiskey Wonderland! Admission includes 10 whiskey cocktail samples along with access to the vendor market and food truck rally. Designated drivers can get discounted tickets! A portion of the proceeds from the event will be donated to a nonprofit that supports deployed servicemen and women.
Find more information here.
Sun 'N Fun Holiday Fly-In Festival and Care Show
The second annual SUN 'n FUN Holiday Fly-In Festival and Car Show will take place Dec. 3-4 at the Lakeland Linder International Airport.
Gates open at 8 a.m. both on Friday and Saturday. The outdoor event will have airshows, a car show, a visit from Santa, family movie nights and more.
For tickets and more information, click here.
Victorian Christmas Stroll
Get into the holiday spirit with the Victorian Christmas Stoll in Tampa. All month long, you can find unique themes and displays at the Henry B. Plant Museum that give you a look at Christmas over the years. There are COVID-19 precautions in place.
For more information, click here.
Jimmy Buffett
Get on "Island Time" with Jimmy Buffett! His Slack Tide Tour arrives at Amalie Arena Saturday, Dec. 4. The show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are still available on Ticketmaster starting at $45.
Find more information here.
City of Tampa Fest & Annual Tree Lighting
Gather at Curtis Hixon Park for Tampa’s annual tree lighting ceremony Saturday, Dec. 4. Festivities include a holiday parade starting at 1:30 p.m. and activities. The tree lighting entertainment starts at 6 p.m.
Find more information here.
Ybor City Festival
Culture, heritage and history of Latin culture come to life at the Ybor City Festival Sunday, Dec. 5. The festival will focus on Cuban Heritage through its rich cultural foods music and arts & crafts dedicated to the culture in the heart of Ybor City’s Centennial Park.
For more information, click here.
Siesta Beach Seafood & Music Festival
Bring your appetite to the 5th Annual Siesta Beach Seafood & Music Festival Dec. 3 – 5. You’ll find a variety of seafood cooked fresh onsite, a marketplace and live performances. The event takes place at the Siesta Key Pavilion.
Find more information here.