Our Top 3<\/p>\n
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Tampa Bay\u2019s Festival of Lights and Santa\u2019s Village<\/p>\n
6-11 p.m. Nov. 27-Dec. 28. Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, 215 Sydney Washer Road, Dover. Children and adults will enjoy the nearly 2-mile drive-thru immersive experience of continuous light features, followed by a festive walking visit to Santa\u2019s Village. The month-long event is full of attractions, holiday goodies and visits with Santa. Guests can bring their well-behaved dogs and cats on a leash to join Paws & Claus Nights on Dec. 4 and Dec. 11. Heroes Night on Dec. 18 offers active and retired military, police, fire and first responders a discounted admission of $15 per car. Other nights vary from $25-$30. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/unxnk2yw<\/a><\/p>\n Christmas in the Wild<\/p>\n 4-10 p.m. Nov. 28-Dec. 30. ZooTampa, 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa. This popular holiday tradition transforms the Zoo into a glowing wonderland filled with over a million lights, larger-than-life illuminated animal sculptures, unforgettable entertainment, delicious seasonal food, and interactive experiences. Christmas in the Wild takes place on select nights, visit zootampa.org<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n The Nashville Brass<\/p>\n 3-6 p.m. Nov. 30. New Tampa Performing Arts Center, 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa. Don\u2019t miss an unforgettable evening as Grammy Award-winning ensemble Danny Davis and the Nashville Brass light up the stage with their signature blend of country favorites and powerful brass arrangements. $20-$27.50. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/5bj6a7y2<\/a><\/p>\n THURSDAY<\/p>\n Winter Village<\/p>\n Nov. 27-Jan. 4. Curtis Hixon Park, 600 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa. Check online for events on select nights, such as the Tampa Bay Ice Show, Winter Village Express, River of Lights cruise, silent disco Fridays, trivia Wednesdays, Tuesday themed skate nights, small business Saturdays and more. https:\/\/wintervillagetampa.com<\/a><\/p>\n Busch Gardens Tampa Bay\u2019s Christmas Town<\/p>\n Nov. 27-Jan. 5. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 10165 McKinley Drive, Tampa. Busch Gardens will transform into a dazzling winter wonderland featuring millions of twinkling lights and two spectacular new additions \u2014 a holiday drones show synchronized to classic holiday music, and an immersive, multi-sensory light and music display across the park\u2019s iconic Serengeti Plain. Favorites such as Santa\u2019s North Pole Experience and Rudolph\u2019s Winter Wonderland return.<\/p>\n FRIDAY<\/p>\n The National HoopFeast Thanksgiving Tournament<\/p>\n Nov. 28-29. Wiregrass Ranch Sports Complex, 3021 Sports Coast Way, Wesley Chapel. Showcasing 150 teams from across the country to participate in a two-day event. This event will be Powered By Issa Bucket Productions, Florida’s main media outlet for High School Basketball. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/ysmr2txw<\/a><\/p>\n Senior Social<\/p>\n 3 p.m. Nov. 28. B&B Theatres Wesley Chapel, 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd. Join B&B Theatres every Friday for fun card games with our 50+ community. Come alone or bring a few friends. Instruction available for all games. Free to play. Food and drinks available for purchase.<\/p>\n Side Splitters Comedy Club presents Jake Klark & Friends<\/p>\n 7 p.m. Nov. 28-29. Side Splitters Comedy Club at the Grove, 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. You may have seen Jake Klark at the NYC Comic Strip Live or on Comedy Central. He\u2019s a Riot Comedy Fest and World Series of Comedy Finalist. Klark’s stories of growing up, overcoming adversity, getting married and having kids will resonate with all types of crowds. His high energy performance will leave the audience wanting more. https:\/\/sidesplitterscomedy.com<\/a><\/p>\n Live Music Fridays<\/p>\n 7-10 p.m. Nov. 28. Florida Avenue Brewing Co., 2029 Arrowgrass Drive, Wesley Chapel. Every Friday night come out for a diverse lineup of live music performances in a vibrant beer garden. Enjoy a night of great music, delicious craft brews, and good company. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/32rdhe4e<\/a><\/p>\n SATURDAY<\/p>\n Oldsmar Saturday Market<\/p>\n 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Nov. 29. City Hall – East Lot, 100 State St. W., Oldsmar. Support local vendors while enjoying fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food. Presented by the Upper Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce.<\/p>\n Ybor City Saturday Market<\/p>\n 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 29. Centennial Park, 1800 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. The Ybor City Saturday Market is one of the most popular shopping destinations for locally produced items unique to the Tampa Bay area. Find great produce at great prices, gourmet foods & sauces, fresh baked breads, prepared foods, herbs & plants, pet treats, honey, fine cigars, unique gifts, photography, artwork, jewelry, woodworking, bath & body products, candles & so much more.<\/p>\n Merry & Bright<\/p>\n 5-8 p.m. Nov. 29. Chick-fil-A, 3800 Ehrlich Road, Tampa. Come and celebrate the first annual Merry & Bright Night\u2014 a festive evening where the community can enjoy our indoor and outdoor decorations, capture photo ops with Santa and Mrs. Claus, sample a new Peppermint Milkshake, and pick up the December calendar filled with holiday events and family-friendly fun. At this location only.<\/p>\n Fan Appreciation Game – USF vs Rice<\/p>\n 7 p.m. Nov. 29. Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa. Tickets start at $23. www.ticketmaster.com<\/a> or call 1-800-GoBulls.<\/p>\n SUNDAY<\/p>\n Sunshine Sunday<\/p>\n 8-10 a.m. Nov. 30. Glazer Children’s Museum, 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa. Sunshine Sunday is a special monthly event on the last Sunday of the month for children with special needs and their caregivers. Come explore the museum with lights and sounds turned down and sensory-adapted tools, special programs, and community resources at your fingertips. $5 for nonmembers, free for members.<\/p>\n MONDAY<\/p>\n Painting with Rick Austin<\/p>\n 1-3 p.m. Dec. 1-15. Life Enrichment Center, 9704 N. Blvd., Tampa. Explore different painting methods and techniques to complete a painting in this hybrid class. Students will work from the same resource, which will be sent before class. Any painting medium you have will work. This class is great for beginners to advanced students. Members $10, nonmembers $12. Register at lectampa.org<\/a> or call 813-932-0241.<\/p>\n Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony<\/p>\n 6-7 p.m. Dec. 1. Oldsmar City Hall, 100 State St. W. Holiday tree lighting ceremony featuring holiday music performed by local groups and the Oldsmar Citizens of the Year throwing the light switch to light up the city tree.<\/p>\n Donation Based Community Yoga<\/p>\n 6-7:15 p.m. Dec. 1. Lotus Pond Center for Yoga and Health, 6201 Lynn Road, Tampa. Learn yoga techniques that help reduce stress. Donations appreciated but not required to attend. Classes offered each Monday.<\/p>\n TUESDAY<\/p>\n General Knowledge Trivia Night<\/p>\n 5-7 p.m. Dec. 2. Florida Avenue Brewing Co., 2029 Arrowgrass Drive, Wesley Chapel. Enjoy a night out with challenging trivia questions covering a variety of topics, from pop culture and history to science and current events. Arrive early to snag a table. All seats are filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. No reservations. No saving seats. Doors open at 6 p.m.<\/p>\n Bingo<\/p>\n 5:30 p.m. Dec. 2. John Nelson Memorial Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 29, 4300 Land O\u2019 Lakes Blvd., Land O\u2019 Lakes. Every Tuesday, evening early bird game starts at 5:30 p.m. and the regular session begins at 6 p.m. The snack bar provides food and drinks for purchase. 727-992-1499.<\/p>\n Charcuterie & Cheer: A Holiday Wine Night<\/p>\n 6-7:30 p.m. Dec. 2. Graze Craze Oldsmar, 4058 Tampa Road, Suite 8. Learn how to build your own festive board while enjoying a delicious evening. Ugly Sweaters optional but encouraged. $60 per person includes: a bottle of wine to take home, a charcuterie box you build to take home, and wine and charcuterie tasting to enjoy during the class.<\/p>\n Big Band Jam<\/p>\n 7 p.m. Dec. 2. Concordia Village Tampa, 4100 E. Fletcher Ave. Come out and enjoy music performed by a 17-piece big band every Tuesday in the senior ballroom. Free and open to the public.<\/p>\n WEDNESDAY<\/p>\n Senior Fitness Walk<\/p>\n 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Dec. 3. Citrus Park Town Center Mall, 8021 Citrus Park Town Center, Tampa. Free and fun Senior Fitness Walk every Wednesday morning. Meet at the mall entrance to Dick’s Sporting Goods. 813-494-6376.<\/p>\n Mayor\u2019s Food Truck Fiesta<\/p>\n 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 3. Lykes Gaslight Square Park, 241-263 E Madison St., Tampa. Featuring tasty treats from a variety of local vendors, the Mayor\u2019s Food Truck Fiesta occurs the first Wednesday of every month. This month\u2019s vendors are Mom’s Taco, I WANNA WOK, The Oreo Lady, The Melt Machine, and Wheelin N Grillin.<\/p>\n Board Game Night<\/p>\n 1-11 p.m. Dec. 3. The Tampa Bay Bridge Center, 114 W. 109th Ave., Tampa. The Tampa Gaming Guild invites the public out for weekly game nights on the first and third Sundays of the month, as well as every Wednesday and Friday evening from 5:30-11 p.m. Trial memberships give you access to regular gaming sessions up to 30 days free. tampagamingguild.org<\/a><\/p>\n Saint Leo University Christmas Celebration<\/p>\n 4 p.m. Dec. 3. Saint Leo University, 33701 County Road 52, St. Leo. Enjoy an evening of beloved Saint Leo traditions, including two Christmas concerts, a Christmas village at the clock tower courtyard, the campus lighting, and other family-friendly activities. The concerts start at 4 p.m. at Benedictine Sisters of Florida\u2019s Holy Name Monastery and 7 p.m. at Saint Leo Abbey Church. All events are free and open to the public.<\/p>\n Al-Anon Family Groups (Families and Friends of Alcoholics)<\/p>\n 7-8 p.m. Dec. 3. Hillsborough United Methodist Church, 9008 Harney Road, Temple Terrace. Al\u2011Anon is a mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else\u2019s drinking. The group meets each Wednesday.<\/p>\n Game Night at the Grove<\/p>\n 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3. B&B Theatres, 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Game nights alternate between trivia and bingo each week. This week’s theme is general music bingo. Free to play, no reservations required.<\/p>\n LOOKING AHEAD<\/p>\n Pastels<\/p>\n 1-3 p.m. Dec. 4-18. Life Enrichment Center, 9704 N Blvd., Tampa. Join instructor Janice Schindle and explore a variety of approaches to the beautiful medium of pastels. Gain a deeper understanding of the medium and develop your personal style with pastels. $8-$10. https:\/\/lectampa.org<\/a><\/p>\n Sunset Market<\/p>\n 6-10 p.m. Dec. 4. Midtown Tampa, 3650 Midtown Drive, Tampa. End your day with live music, cocktails and over 40 local vendors including artists, jewelry, and makers from the Bay Area. The Sunset Market occurs on the first Thursday of each month.<\/p>\n Free Downtown Concert: Rock The Park<\/p>\n 6:30-9:45 p.m. Dec. 4. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 600 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa. For 15 years, the Tampa Downtown Partnership has produced a free monthly music series showcasing musical talents of all genres. The concert will also have local food trucks to purchase from. www.facebook.com\/RockThePark<\/a><\/p>\n Oxford Exchange Holiday Gift Market<\/p>\n 6:30-10 p.m. Dec. 4. Oxford Exchange, 420 West Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. Inspired by eclectic and bustling European marketplaces, Oxford Exchange will be transformed for one night as a diverse shopping venue, just in time for the holidays. RSVP required, but admittance is free. https:\/\/bookstore.oxfordexchange.com\/gift-bazaar<\/a><\/p>\n Annual Winter Wonderland<\/p>\n 5-9 p.m. Dec. 5. R.E. Olds Park, 107 Shore Drive W, Oldsmar. The coolest event of the year, featuring a giant snow slide, bounce houses, concessions, and a visit from Santa himself. Lots of family fun. Free shuttle from the library.<\/p>\n Sangria Night<\/p>\n 5-10 p.m. Dec. 5. Keel Farms, 5202 W. Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. The first Friday of each month, enjoy an evening filled with Latin music, dancing, and handcrafted sangria flights. First come, first serve with free parking and free admission. www.keelfarms.com<\/a><\/p>\n The Market Elaine<\/p>\n 5:30-9:30 p.m. Dec. 5. The Grove at Wesley Chapel, 6013 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Come experience a vibrant atmosphere filled with more than 150 vendors, live entertainment and activities for all ages. Held the first Friday of each month.<\/p>\n Jazz with Jim<\/p>\n 7:30-9 p.m. Dec. 5. Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. Jazz with Jim is an ongoing concert series at the Center hosted by Jim Burge (saxophone\/flute\/clarinet), Ron Delp (keyboard), Jeff Henson (drums), and Todd Jeferies (bass)\u2014 together, they are The Jazz Directions. Each concert is unique as The Jazz Directions share stories and some of their favorite musical selections appropriate for the evening\u2019s theme. $13-$20. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/5chfptnr<\/a><\/p>\n A Christmas Carol<\/p>\n 8 p.m. Dec. 5-7, 12-14, 19-21. Carrollwood Players, 4333 Gunn Highway, Tampa. CWP\u2019s annual holiday tradition returns to its roots as they present the beloved, classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas, adapted for the stage with all the Victorian splendor, warmth, laughter and storytelling you expect from the original Dickens novella. Matinee shows available. $24-$27. https:\/\/carrollwoodplayers.org<\/a><\/p>\n SkyWatch: Space Week<\/p>\n 8 p.m. Dec. 5. MOSI, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. Whether you\u2019re a seasoned stargazer or just beginning to explore the wonders of the night sky, SkyWatch offers an unforgettable experience for everyone. MOSI\u2019s expert astronomers will guide you in viewing the stars, planets, and celestial wonders through telescopes. Free for members, $5 general admission. https:\/\/mosi.org\/event\/skywatch<\/a><\/p>\n Fresh Market at Wiregrass<\/p>\n 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 6. The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel. Held the first and third Saturday of the month. Featuring over 50 vendors located on Paseo Drive in the heart of the shopping center. Guests can expect to find a variety of locally grown produce and take-home foods. The market also features local artists showcasing their creative efforts and eco-friendly products.<\/p>\n Tampa Team Hope Walk<\/p>\n 10 a.m. Dec. 6. Lowry Park, 7525 N. Blvd., Tampa. The Florida Chapter of the Huntington\u2019s Disease Society of America will host the Tampa Team Hope Walk. All proceeds support HDSA\u2019s mission to improve the lives of people affected by Huntington\u2019s disease (HD) and their families. Registration starts at 9 a.m. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/2f59stab<\/a><\/p>\n Old Hyde Park Home Tour<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 6. Check-in and pick up tickets at 727 South Edison, Tampa. Several distinctive and charming homes in the iconic Hyde Park neighborhood will be available to explore, with sips, snacks and music, plus other surprises along the way. Proceeds to benefit the preservation and beautification efforts of Hyde Park Preservation, Inc. This historic walking tour takes place rain or shine, and tickets are non-refundable. Check-in opens at 9:45 a.m. $30. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/4xhn6vcm<\/a><\/p>\n Holiday Gift Gala<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 6. Westchase Town Center, 9540 W. Linebaugh Ave. The Holiday Gift Gala is a dazzling, curated shopping experience featuring 50+ vendors offering one-of-a-kind gifts, art, d\u00e9cor, and holiday treasures you won\u2019t find anywhere else.<\/p>\n Lutz Arts & Crafts Show<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 6; and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 7. Keystone Prep High School, 18105 Gunn Highway, Odessa. This long-running community tradition features more than 150 booths offering a wide variety of handmade arts, crafts, home d\u00e9cor, jewelry, gifts, and seasonal treasures \u2014 perfect for holiday shopping. Visitors can expect to find unique, one-of-a-kind items from talented local and regional artisans. General parking: $5, VIP parking: $10, cash only.<\/p>\n Museums On Us Weekend<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 6-7. Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, 1630 E. Seventh Ave., Tampa. The Museums on Us program offers Bank of America and Merrill Lynch debit and credit cardholders free admission to over 225 museums and cultural institutions across the United States on the first full weekend of every month.<\/p>\n Westchase Holiday Gift Gala<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 6. Westchase Town Center, 9540 W. Linebaugh Ave., Tampa. Come out for the ultimate holiday shopping experience. Get ready to shop, celebrate, and find the perfect gifts. This one-day festive shopping event is filled with home d\u00e9cor and seasonal accents, gourmet treats, handcrafted creations and more.<\/p>\n 4th Annual Howliday Market<\/p>\n 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 6. Midtown Tampa, 3650 Midtown Drive, Tampa. Midtown will be hosting its fourth annual Howliday Market in partnership with Dog Moms of Tampa Bay. The event will be a festive market featuring local small businesses lining the streets and offering a variation of pet-friendly holiday gift items. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/2vdkcpwp<\/a><\/p>\n Holiday Village<\/p>\n 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Dec. 6. Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. Holiday Village presented by the Carrollwood Village Phases II & III HOAs is a family\u2010friendly event with holiday\u2010themed crafts, activities, food trucks, music, decorations, and more.<\/p>\n Ukulele Jam<\/p>\n 12-2 p.m. Dec. 6. New River Library, 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel. Bring your ukulele and jam with the Tampa Bay Ukulele Society on the first Saturday of each month.<\/p>\n Tampa’s Santa Fest and Tree Lighting<\/p>\n 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Dec. 6. Curtis Hixon Park, 600 N Ashley Drive, Tampa. The parade steps off at 1 p.m. beginning at Morgan Street and Madison Street. Tampa\u2019s Tree Lighting Ceremony begins at 6 p.m. with a concert of familiar Christmas favorites, dazzling dancers, and stage entertainment starring SuperStar Cortni. Once the trees are lit, a holiday movie will be shown. Admission is free. https:\/\/wintervillagetampa.com<\/a><\/p>\n Holly, Jolly and Gay!<\/p>\n 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Seminole Heights UMC, 6111 N. Central Ave., Tampa. Join the Gay Men\u2019s Chorus of Tampa Bay for their holiday spectacular “Holly, Jolly and Gay!” featuring beloved holiday standards and more. General admission $25, student tickets $15. www.gmctb.org\/current-season<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Our Top 3 Tampa Bay\u2019s Festival of Lights and Santa\u2019s Village 6-11 p.m. Nov. 27-Dec. 28. 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