TAMPA, Fla. – There will be plenty of lights, rides, and holiday delights at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
Returning Nov. 14 through Jan. 5, Christmas Town will transform the park into a dazzling winter wonderland filled with holiday cheer.
This year’s celebration features millions of twinkling lights and two exciting new shows: The Holiday Skies Spectacular, a drone show set to classic holiday music, and the Serengeti Light Show, a multi-sensory display lighting up the park’s iconic Serengeti Plain. Guests can enjoy favorite rides and coasters like Kumba and Phoenix Rising.
Phoenix Rising at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (United Parks & Entertainment)
[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]
Park President Brian Bacica said, “There’s nothing quite like the joy and wonder that fill the park during Christmas Town. From festive shows to sparkling decorations around every corner, we can’t wait for guests to make cherished holiday memories with us.”
Below is the lineup of offerings:
Serengeti Light Show: A colorful, choreographed light and music display on the Serengeti Plain featuring tens of thousands of lights set to “Carol of the Bells.”
Holiday Skies Spectacular: A drone show lighting up the night sky with classic holiday tunes, a Florida first.
Christmas on Ice: Ice-skating performances set to Christmas classics at the Moroccan Palace Theater.
Mrs. Claus’ Storytime: Enchanting holiday tales perfect for families and children.
Busch Gardens Holiday Magic: A festive show with illusions, choreography, and music at the Stanleyville Theater.
Three Kings Journey: A musical retelling of the Three Wise Men’s journey to Bethlehem.
Holly Jolly Express: A festive train ride around the park with sing-alongs and holiday cheer.
Elmo’s Christmas Wish: A family-friendly holiday show featuring beloved Sesame Street characters.
Christmas Town Character Appearances: Meet and take photos with festive characters and princesses.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks: Celebrate Dec. 31 with music, fireworks, and thrill rides.
Guests can also visit Santa’s North Pole Experience to meet Santa and explore his workshop, plus Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland with festive displays and photo opportunities in a new location.
Braised Short Ribs at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town (United Parks & Entertainment)
Seasonal treats include holiday-flavored hot chocolates, fresh cookies, new holiday-inspired menu items, and Christmas Town craft cocktails. Visitors can also decorate gingerbread cookies, shop for unique gifts, and capture festive photos with holiday characters throughout the park.
Holiday Yule Log at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town. (United Parks & Entertainment)
Christmas Town is included with park admission and runs select dates through Jan. 5.
In the Loop: Theme Park Scoops
Sign up for the ClickOrlando.com In the Loop: Theme Park Scoops newsletter, sent every Friday morning.
Copyright 2025 by WKMG ClickOrlando – All rights reserved.