It’s not quite time to hang the stockings by the chimney with care, but Santa Claus is definitely coming to town soon. The City of St. Petersburg always goes all out for the holidays, and this year’s holiday rundown is bigger than ever.

The annual Santa Parade and Tree Lighting ceremony will kick off the season of festivities on November 29, bringing a full month of yuletide joy to the Burg.

The tree lighting event also marks the official “opening day” of lighted decorations throughout the park and downtown area. Following the lighting of the tree, St. Pete Parks and Recreation will host themed events galore throughout the month of December. The full list can be found online, with highlights below.

Great holiday events in St. Pete

Santa Parade & Tree Lighting
Saturday, November 29, 6:30 pm, Downtown St. Petersburg
Kick off the holidays with St. Pete’s annual Santa Parade & Tree Lighting! The fun begins with the illuminated Santa Parade that starts at Albert Whitted Park, followed by the Tree Lighting at North Straub Park right after the parade. Interested in spreading holiday cheer? Showcase your organization, community group, or business by participating in the Santa Parade. Click here to register online.

Holiday Lights & Displays
November 29 – January 1 in Downtown Waterfront Parks
Take a stroll along the waterfront to see thousands of holiday lights and decorations in North Straub Park, South Straub Park, Pioneer Park, and the St. Pete Pier.

Snowfest
Saturday, December 6, 9 am – 2 pm in North Straub Park
Join the city for festive fun with toboggan slides, inflatables, arts & crafts, food trucks, and more! $5 wristbands include all activities (food not included). Purchase online or at any City recreation center until Dec. 5 at noon, or at the event. Click here to purchase wristbands online.

Holiday Movies in the Park
Saturdays, December 6, 13, and 20
Celebrate the holiday season with free outdoor movie screenings in the park. Enjoy pre-movie festive activities, including photo opportunities with Santa, and concessions. Bring your blankets or lawn chairs. Holiday activities start at 6:30 p.m. Movies start at 7 p.m.
Movie Schedule:

December 6 at Vinoy Park- Home Alone 2: Lost in New York

December 13 at Pinellas Pioneer Settlement – The Santa Clause

December 20 at Huggins-Stengel Field – A Miser Brothers’ Christmas

Santa in the Park
December 13 – 23, 6- 9 pm in North Straub Park
Enjoy a meet-and-greet with Santa in North Straub Park! Don’t forget to bring your own camera to capture the memories.

Cookies with Santa
December 13 and 14, 5-7 pm at the Pinellas Pioneer Settlement
Join in a delightful evening as you gather around the fire, make delicious s’mores, create crafts, and spend time with Santa Claus himself. Admission is $5/person, with online registration available for Friday and Saturday. Walk-ups on Saturday only for individuals participating in the Holiday Movies. Registration required. Stay tuned for link.

Santa at St. Pete Libraries
Multiple dates and locations
Join the St. Pete Libraries for music, stories, & a visit from Santa. Bring cameras! Each child visiting Santa gets a free book!
Schedule:

Mon., Dec. 15 | 10:30 AM | W. Community Library at SPC/Gibbs Campus, 6700 8th Ave N

Tues., Dec. 16 | 6:30 PM | N. Community Library, 861 70th Ave N

Wed., Dec. 17 | 10:30 AM | S. Community Library, 2300 Roy Hanna Dr S

Thur., Dec. 18 | 10:30 AM | Johnson Community Library, 1059 18th Ave S

Thur., Dec. 18 | 6:30 PM | President Barack Obama Main Library, 3745 9th Ave N

Cocoa Night Hike
Saturday, December 20, 7-9 p.m. at the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
Join the Rangers for a cozy Cocoa Night Hike at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve to celebrate the Winter Solstice! Enjoy warm cocoa as you explore the serene trails under the stars. Bring your friends and family for a delightful evening adventure! $5 per person.