Tampa Bay Weekend Events Guide
Your Seasonal Highlights Around the Bay
As Tampa Bay moves into the heart of the holiday season, the city comes alive with lights, music, and festive experiences for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter outing, a family-friendly adventure, or a chance to soak in the holiday spirit, this week’s guide highlights the best ongoing seasonal events happening across the region. Enjoy the magic, the atmosphere, and the traditions that make this time of year unforgettable in Tampa Bay.
📅 Friday, December 12
🎤 Brandy & Monica with Kelly Rowland – Benchmark International Arena • 8:00PM
Three R&B icons join forces for a powerful weekend of nostalgic hits and show-stopping performances. Fans can expect classics, new music, emotional moments, and surprise collaborations. The chemistry between these artists makes this show a standout event. A dream lineup for lovers of 90s and 2000s R&B.
🔗 https://www.benchmarkintlarena.com/events/detail/brandy-2025
🎤 Sarah Brightman – Ruth Eckerd Hall • 8:00PM
Sarah Brightman brings her signature soaring vocals to a cinematic evening of classical, pop, and holiday music. Stunning visuals and ethereal arrangements create an immersive experience. Her voice fills the hall with elegance and emotional depth. A beautiful and enchanting winter concert.
🔗 https://www.rutheckerdhall.com/events/detail/sarah-brightman
🎭 Shaun Cassidy – Ruth Eckerd Hall • 8:00PM
Shaun Cassidy blends music, humor, and personal stories from his legendary career in a warm, engaging show. Fans can expect classic hits and behind-the-scenes memories delivered with charm. The performance feels intimate and nostalgic in the best way. A fun, feel-good night of entertainment.
🔗 https://www.rutheckerdhall.com/events/detail/shaun-cassidy
🎧 Beats Antique – Jannus Live • 6:30PM
Beats Antique delivers a globally inspired fusion of electronic beats, world music, and theatrical dance. Their high-energy performance features hypnotic rhythms and stunning visual elements. The show feels immersive and unlike anything else on the Jannus stage. A vibrant and artistic way to kick off the weekend.
🔗 https://jannuslive.com/events/beats-antiques/
🎧 RUSKO – One Man Army Tour – The Ritz Ybor • 9:30PM
RUSKO brings his explosive dubstep sound to Tampa with a night of high-tempo energy and heavy bass. Joined by SUBDOCTA, the lineup promises nonstop dancing until the early morning hours. Fans can expect wild drops, rave vibes, and unforgettable live momentum. A top-tier event for EDM and bass lovers.
🔗 https://www.theritzybor.com/event/rusko2025/
🎧 Silent Disco Fridays – Winter Village • 6:00PM – 9:00PM
Winter Village transforms into a glowing dance floor where everyone grooves to their own channel of music. The silent disco adds a fun, playful twist to the holiday atmosphere. It’s perfect for dates, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a carefree night out. A lively and unique way to enjoy the season.
🔗 https://www.wintervillagetampa.com/
🎄 Feliz Novedades – Holiday Night Market at Hotel Haya • 7:00PM – 10:00PM
Hotel Hays hosts a festive indoor market filled with artisan vendors and handcrafted holiday gifts. Guests can browse while enjoying cocktails, live music, and Ybor’s creative energy. It’s a stylish way to support local makers and discover unique finds. A warm and inviting holiday shopping experience.
🔗https://www.eventbrite.com/e/feliz-novedades-a-holiday-night-market-at-hotel-haya-tickets-1967206166600
😂 Arnez J – Tampa Funny Bone Comedy Club • 7:00PM
Arnez J brings his physical comedy, wild storytelling, and animated characters to a full weekend of laughter. His high-energy style keeps the audience engaged from the moment he hits the stage. Expect jokes, impressions, and plenty of outrageous moments. A perfect choice for a fun night out with friends.
🔗 https://tampa.funnybone.com/event/arnez-j-11/tampa-funny-bone/
📅 Saturday, December 13
🎷 Fall Jazz Jam – Straz Center (Patel Conservatory) • 11 AM
The Fall Jazz Jam brings together talented student musicians for a lively morning of improvisation, ensemble performances, and classic jazz standards. This upbeat showcase highlights young artists sharpening their craft onstage in a supportive, energetic environment. It’s a great event for families, jazz fans, and anyone who loves local arts. A warm and uplifting way to kick off Saturday.
🔗 Info: https://www.strazcenter.org/events/2526-season/patel-conservatory/fall-jazz-jam/
🎸 Pink Talking Fish – Crowbar • 7 PM
Pink Talking Fish brings their legendary hybrid tribute — combining Pink Floyd, Talking Heads, and Phish — to the intimate Crowbar stage. Their genre-blending performance is packed with improvisation, crowd energy, and mashups that flow seamlessly from one iconic sound to another. Fans of jam bands and experimental rock will be in heaven. A vibrant night of musicianship and surprises.
🔗 Tickets: https://www.eventim.us/event/Pink-Talking-Fish/651959
🎭 Los Líderes del Humor – Straz Center • 8 PM
This touring comedy powerhouse brings a lineup of top Latino comedians to the Straz Center for a night full of sharp wit, cultural humor, and high-energy storytelling. Expect a lively show with big laughs, quick pacing, and hilarious takes on everyday life. It’s a perfect feel-good evening for fans of Spanish-language comedy. A festive and spirited Saturday-night event.
🔗 Tickets: https://www.strazcenter.org/events/2425-season/rental/los-lideres-del-humor/
🤼♂️ National Wrestling Alliance – Live Show Tapings (WEDU PBS Studios)
📼 Afternoon Taping • 2 PM – 5PM
The National Wrestling Alliance brings back its classic studio energy with a live NWA Powerrr taping at WEDU PBS Studios. Fans can expect high-impact matches, dramatic storylines, and the intimate atmosphere that defines the NWA era. This afternoon program offers an up-close look at the action as it’s filmed for broadcast. A perfect outing for wrestling enthusiasts who love old-school authenticity.
🔗 Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nwa-powerrr-taping-1-afternoon-wedu-pbs-studios-sat-dec-13th-2025-tickets-1748967251129?aff=oddtdtcreator
🔗 NWA Events Page: https://www.nationalwrestlingalliance.com/nwaliveevents
📼 Evening Taping • 7 PM – 10PM
The evening NWA Powerrr taping delivers another round of explosive wrestling, crowd engagement, and classic in-studio excitement. Featuring top talent, signature promos, and hard-hitting matches, this session captures the nostalgia of televised wrestling with modern flair. Fans experience the drama firsthand as the cameras roll. A must-see for anyone who loves live combat entertainment.
🔗 Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nwa-powerrr-taping-2-evening-wedu-pbs-studios-sat-dec-13th-2025-tickets-1748978474699
🎹 Bruce Hornsby – Ruth Eckerd Hall • 7:00PM
Bruce Hornsby showcases his signature blend of rock, jazz, and improvisation in an intimate concert experience. Every performance feels spontaneous thanks to his creative musicianship. Fans will hear beloved classics along with reimagined deep cuts. A standout evening for true music lovers.
🔗 https://www.rutheckerdhall.com/events/detail/bruce-hornsby
🎸 Albert Cummings – Crooked Thumb Brewery • 7:30PM
Albert Cummings delivers a soulful night of blues and rock with heartfelt vocals and electrifying guitar work. His energetic stage presence makes every song feel personal and powerful. Fans of Americana, roots, and blues will feel right at home. A strong, emotionally charged performance not to miss.
🔗 https://crookedthumbbrew.com/
🎻 TopHouse w/ Crowe Boys – Skipper’s Smokehouse • 8:00PM
TopHouse brings uplifting folk, acoustic rock, and warm harmonies to the Skipper’s stage. Joined by the Crowe Boys, the show radiates front-porch charm and genuine musicianship. Expect lively instrumentals, heartfelt melodies, and a cozy vibe. A refreshing, down-to-earth Saturday night.
🔗 https://skipperssmokehouse.com/event/tophouse-w-tba-8pm-25-30/
🎹 House Party Vibes with Reverend Billy C. Wirtz – WMNF • 3:00PM
Reverend Billy C. Wirtz brings boogie-woogie piano, sharp humor, and witty Southern storytelling to this intimate afternoon concert. The show feels like hanging out in a friend’s living room with great music and laughs. His unique blend of comedy and musicianship creates a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. A fun community-centered event to start your evening.
🔗 https://www.wmnf.org/wmnf_events/house-party-vibes-with-reverend-billy-c-wirtz/
🎶 Club 90s Presents: 2000s Night – The Ritz Ybor • 9:30PM
Throw it back to the early 2000s with a dance party full of iconic hits, nostalgia, and themed visuals. Expect everything from pop and hip-hop to rock and emo classics. The crowd energy and throwback fashion make the night feel electric. A perfect late-night event for millennial-era music fans.
🔗 https://www.theritzybor.com/event/2000s-night-july-2025/
🛍️ Mezzo Market – Willa’s
This vibrant market features vintage goods, handmade crafts, art, plants, and more from local vendors. Shoppers can browse at a relaxed pace while enjoying Willa’s welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind items or holiday gifts. A charming and community-focused Saturday tradition.
🔗 https://www.willas.com/
🎸 Silverstein: 25 Years of Noise – Jannus Live •
Silverstein celebrates 25 years with a high-energy set packed with post-hardcore anthems and emotional favorites. Joined by Thursday and Split Chain, this lineup is a major treat for alt-rock fans. Expect crowd-surfing, nostalgia, and powerful live performances. A milestone night for the scene.
🔗 https://jannuslive.com/events/silverstein-25-years-of-noise-w-thursday-split-chain-2/
🚤 25th Annual Hillsborough River Holiday Boat Parade • 5:00PM – 8:00PM
The Hillsborough River comes alive with kayaks, boats, and paddle craft glowing with festive lights. Spectators line the riverbanks to watch the illuminated procession make its way toward Sulphur Springs. The reflections and holiday music create a magical waterfront experience. A beloved Tampa holiday tradition for all ages.
🔗 https://www.tampa.gov/events/25th-annual-holiday-boat-parade-hillsborough-river/176916
📅 Sunday, December 14
🎄 Trans-Siberian Orchestra – The Ghost of Christmas Eve Tour •
TSO brings its iconic holiday rock opera back with explosive visuals, soaring music, and incredible talent. The production blends storytelling, orchestral rock, and breathtaking lighting effects. Both afternoon and evening shows deliver a full sensory holiday experience. A spectacular seasonal tradition for families and music fans.
🔗 https://www.benchmarkintlarena.com/events/detail/tso-2025
🎵 Allman Betts Family Revival – Ruth Eckerd Hall • 8:00PM
This annual celebration honors the Allman Brothers’ legacy with soulful jams, blues influences, and standout guitar work. A rotating cast of musicians joins the lineup for rich, collaborative performances. The concert blends tradition and modern creativity into one heartfelt show. A dream night for Southern rock enthusiasts.
🔗 https://www.rutheckerdhall.com/events/detail/allman-family-revival
🎼 A Charlie Brown Christmas – Palladium Theater • 7:00PM
The timeless Vince Guaraldi score comes alive through live jazz arrangements that capture the heart of the Peanuts classic. Warm melodies and festive charm make this concert perfect for families. The performance blends nostalgia with polished musicianship. A wholesome and heartwarming way to end the weekend.
🔗 https://mypalladium.org/events/the-music-of-vince-guaraldi-a-charlie-brown-christmas-2/
🎤 Raekwon & Mobb Deep – 30th Anniversary Tour • 7:00PM
Raekwon and Havoc celebrate three decades of hip-hop excellence with a night of legendary tracks and raw lyricism. Fans can expect deep cuts, classics, and tributes to Mobb Deep’s legacy. The show highlights the influence of East Coast rap on generations of artists. A must-see event for true hip-hop culture lovers.
🔗 https://jannuslive.com/events/raekwon-mobb-deep-30th-anniversary-tour/
Jingle Bell Bazaar – Ybor City • 12 PM – 6 PM
Ybor City turns festive with the Jingle Bell Bazaar, an outdoor holiday market featuring local makers, artisans, boutiques, food vendors, and seasonal entertainment. Guests can shop unique gifts while strolling through one of Tampa Bay’s most historic neighborhoods. With live music, photo ops, and holiday spirit throughout the district, it’s ideal for families or Sunday explorers. A cheerful destination for holiday shopping.
🔗 Details: https://www.jinglebellbazaar.com/
Deal or No Deal Live – Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino • 8 PM
The hit TV game show comes to life onstage as Deal or No Deal Live brings suspense, audience interaction, and high-energy entertainment to the Hard Rock. Attendees can watch contestants battle the briefcases, test their luck, and face the Banker in real time. With humor, tension, and big-show production, it offers a thrilling night out. Perfect for game show lovers and casino nightlife fans.
🔗 Info: https://casino.hardrock.com/tampa/events/deal-or-no-deal-live
🎄 Ongoing Holiday Experiences (All Month Long)
❄️ Winter Village – Curtis Hixon Park (November 21, 2025, to January 4, 2026) • 12 PM to 10 or 11 PM
A holiday tradition returns with ice skating, cozy cafés, and festive local shops along the Riverwalk. Visitors can enjoy sparkling lights, seasonal treats, and one of Tampa’s most photogenic winter backdrops. It’s the perfect spot for families, friends, or romantic outings. A warm, cheerful experience to enjoy all season long.
🔗 https://www.wintervillagetampa.com/
🎄 Busch Gardens Christmas Town (November 14, 2025, to January 5, 2026) • 10AM – 10PM
Busch Gardens transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland filled with millions of lights and nonstop holiday entertainment. Guests can explore themed villages, enjoy festive food, and experience shows and fireworks throughout the park. Coasters run under twinkling night skies, creating a magical nighttime thrill. A huge holiday tradition running daily through early January.
🔗 https://buschgardens.com/tampa/events/christmas-town/
🎬 Bizzaro Land Film Festival (Friday – Sunday) (Times may vary)
This festival celebrates the bold and unusual with a lineup of experimental, horror, and genre-defying films. Movie lovers can enjoy all-day screenings, filmmaker panels, and late-night surprises. It’s the perfect event for fans of creative risk-taking and cinematic oddities. A full day of eccentric, unforgettable storytelling.
🔗 https://bizarrolandfilm.com/