Our Top 3<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Tampa City Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker<\/p>\n
7:30 p.m. Dec. 12-14. New Tampa Performing Arts Center, 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa. Join Clara on a magical journey filled with toy soldiers, mice, and the Sugar Plum Fairy. With stunning dance and Tchaikovsky\u2019s iconic score, this holiday tradition brings joy to all ages. Saturday and Sunday matinees start at 3 p.m. $45-$90. www.newtampaartscenter.org\/events<\/a><\/p>\n Santa Parade<\/p>\n 2-8 p.m. Dec. 13. Westchase neighborhoods. The event culminates in the annual Tree Lighting ceremony on Montague Street in West Park Village upon Santa\u2019s arrival at approximately 8 p.m. There will be a DJ and entertainment by Michael Levy, owner of Rockatar Music Academy. Parade route and times available at https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/4ckf2dwt<\/a><\/p>\n 2025 APW Aglow (SM Size) – 1<\/p>\n Avalon Aglow<\/p>\n 5-9 p.m. Dec. 13. Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, 4424 Friendly Way. Celebrate the holidays with a fun-filled evening of community performances, children\u2019s entrepreneur market, nocturne plein air, bounce park, food trucks, pictures with Santa and more. Fireworks will end the night at 9 p.m.<\/p>\n THURSDAY<\/p>\n Winter Village<\/p>\n Dec. 11-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 Dec. 11-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 Pastels<\/p>\n 1-3 p.m. Dec. 11-18. 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 Temple Terrace Bicycle Rodeo<\/p>\n 3:30-6 p.m. Dec. 11. Family Recreation Complex Multipurpose Court, 6610 Whiteway Drive, Temple Terrace. Kids can learn basic bike and pedestrian safety through fun, hands-on activities. The event is free, and every participant gets a properly fitted helmet at no cost. The Bike Rodeo is designed for ages 4\u201312, but all children are welcome.<\/p>\n Christmas in the Wild<\/p>\n 4-10 p.m. Dec. 11-30. 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 Santa\u2019s Workshop at the Old Lutz School<\/p>\n 6-8:30 p.m. Dec. 11. Old School Lutz, 18819 U.S. Highway 41, Lutz. Elves have been working their magic, turning the classrooms into a twinkling display of model trains, nutcrackers, LEGO villages, nativity scenes and Christmas trees decorated by local organizations. Free, but a suggested non-perishable food donation or toy to help local families is appreciated.<\/p>\n Tampa Bay\u2019s Festival of Lights and Santa\u2019s Village<\/p>\n 6-11 p.m. Dec. 11-28. 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. 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 Side Splitters Comedy Club presents Kevin McCaffrey<\/p>\n 8 p.m. Dec. 11-13. Side Splitters Comedy Club at the Grove, 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Kevin McCaffrey is a comedian who made his network debut on The Late Show with David Letterman, and whose two albums \u2014 \u201cNice & Drunk\u201d and \u201cNot Helping\u201d \u2014 both debuted at No. 1 on the iTunes\/Amazon charts. McCaffrey currently hosts the Sex and the Cidiots & The Bridgerton Bros podcasts. https:\/\/sidesplitterscomedy.com<\/a><\/p>\n Latin History for Morons<\/p>\n 8 p.m. Dec. 12-14, 19-21. Stageworks Theatre, 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. Latin History for Morons is a critically acclaimed play written and originally performed by John Leguizamo. It\u2019s a fast-paced, irreverent, and laugh-out-loud show that blends personal storytelling with historical revelations. The play challenges the erasure of Latin \/ Hispanic history and celebrates its profound impact on the world. Saturday nights at 7:30 p.m. with Saturday and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. $30-$50. https:\/\/stageworkstheatre.org\/show\/latin-history-for-morons<\/a><\/p>\n FRIDAY<\/p>\n Senior Social<\/p>\n 3 p.m. Dec. 12. 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 Centennial Food Truck Rally<\/p>\n 5-8 p.m. Dec. 12. Temple Terrace Redevelopment Area (Busch Blvd. & 56th Street, Bertha Palmer Blvd.) Enjoy an evening filled with food trucks, bounce houses, games, and music as we close out this milestone year together.<\/p>\n Friday Moonlight Market<\/p>\n 5-9 p.m. Dec. 12. The Hub at Bexley, 16954 Focus Loop, Land O’ Lakes. Every 2nd and 4th Friday. This is a kid-friendly and pet-friendly event that promises something special for everyone. Don\u2019t miss out on this festive, community-filled evening.<\/p>\n Movies in the Park<\/p>\n 5:30 p.m. Dec. 12. Northdale Park & Recreation Center, 15510 Hooting Owls Place, Tampa. This free family event is for all ages and abilities and is sure to be fun for the whole family. Movies are played on a large outdoor screen with surround sound. Light refreshments and activities will be available for attendees. Bring a blanket and chairs. Preshow activities include popcorn, games and crafts. This evening\u2019s film is \u201cThe Nightmare Before Christmas\u201d and starts at 7:30 p.m.<\/p>\n Tampa Metropolitan Improv<\/p>\n 7-8:30 p.m. Dec. 12. Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. Come for a good time, and perhaps even play along with TMI, as they perform short-form improv games using suggestions from the audience (think along the lines of Whose Line is it Anyway, or Dropout TV\u2019s Make Some Noise). No two TMI shows are alike, but rest assured, TMI brings a saucy, edgy, extremely cool, and hip PG-13 rating to the function that most of the family can enjoy. Free for Carrollwood Cultural Center members, $5 general admission.<\/p>\n Live Music Fridays<\/p>\n 7-10 p.m. Dec. 12. 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\/4ksf2sjn<\/a><\/p>\n A Christmas Carol<\/p>\n 8 p.m. Dec. 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 SATURDAY<\/p>\n Breakfast with Santa Lutz<\/p>\n 8:30-11 a.m. Dec. 13. Old School Lutz, 18819 U.S. Highway 41, Lutz. Enjoy breakfast, crafts, and a visit with Santa. Take your own photo. $4. Also enjoy the decorated classrooms for the season.<\/p>\n Breakfast with Santa Oldsmar<\/p>\n 9-10:30 a.m. Dec. 13. State Street Center, 127 State St. W., Oldsmar. Come out and visit with Santa while enjoying some breakfast. There will be several seatings available. Price includes admission, meal, gift, and a photo with the big guy himself. Space is limited. Call 813-749-1152. Preregistration required. $10 (RC), $15 (WO).<\/p>\n Rise and Shine Car Meet-Up<\/p>\n 9-11 a.m. Dec. 13. Parks Ford of Wesley Chapel, 28739 State Road 54. Calling all car enthusiasts, mark your calendars for an exciting event that promises a morning full of revving engines and good company. Participants displaying a vehicle are treated to free coffee and breakfast. Enjoy live music, meet fellow enthusiasts and admire a diverse range of vehicles. Every second Saturday of the month.<\/p>\n Oldsmar Saturday Market<\/p>\n 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 13. 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 Saturday @ Zephyr Park<\/p>\n 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 13. Zephyr Park, 38116 5th Ave., Zephyrhills. Enjoy artisan works and delicious eclectic choice of faire at Zephyr Park. A monthly event with something for everyone. Free admission and free parking.<\/p>\n Ybor City Saturday Market<\/p>\n 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 13. 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 Breakfast with Santa Zephyrhills<\/p>\n 9:30-11 a.m. Dec. 13. Zephyrhills City Hall, 5335 8th St. Join the library to have your picture taken with Santa. A light breakfast and crafts will also be provided. This event will be held outside in the City Hall courtyard.<\/p>\n Goat Yoga<\/p>\n 10 a.m. Dec. 13. Raprager Family Farms, 16907 Boy Scout Road, Odessa. Sherri Keenan will give you an amazing experience in our animal pasture with goats, chickens, geese and ducks. Come early or stay after for fun on the farm or fall in love with our amazing caf\u00e9 and its incredibly delicious food. Classes are 10am-11 am every second Saturday of the month unless there is a festival. Bring a water bottle, yoga mat or towel. $10-$15. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/effeufan<\/a><\/p>\n Carrollwood Market<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 13. Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. The Carrollwood Market is held the second Saturday of each month. The market offers a variety of fresh produce, plants, farmed eggs and meats, baked goods, artisan products, lunch bites, local art, handcrafts, and more.<\/p>\n Holiday Market<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 13. AdventHealth Care Pavilion Central Pasco, 2435 Bexley Village Drive, Land O\u2019 Lakes. This holiday shopping event will feature over 40 local makers, free biometric screenings and health education, plus lunch bites and artisan drinks. The on-site kids club will provide a bounce house and craft activities for kids. Enjoy festive music and a visit with Santa.<\/p>\n Merry Maker’s Market<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 13. MOSI, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. This special event is the perfect opportunity to purchase unique gifts for friends, family, or even yourself, just in time for the holiday season. Whether you\u2019re searching for handcrafted goods, local artisan creations, or distinctive pieces that you won\u2019t find anywhere else, the market offers something for everyone. Free with general admission to MOSI.<\/p>\n Mezzo Market<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 13. Willa’s, 1700 W Fig St., North Hyde Park, Tampa. Mezzo Market is a curated outdoor small business market featuring small & local business vendors selling vintage goods, handmade wares, artwork, boutique clothing, plants, jewelry, food & drinks, and more. https:\/\/mezzomarket.co<\/a><\/p>\n Westchase Locale Market<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 13. Westchase Town Center Plaza, 9520-9644 W. Linebaugh Ave., Tampa. Local artisans showcase their handmade goods the second Saturday of each month. www.facebook.com\/westchaselocalemarket<\/a><\/p>\n Movie Screening \u201cHome\u201d<\/p>\n 3-5 p.m. Dec. 13. Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W Bearrs Ave., Tampa. A lovable misfit alien runs away from his planet and takes shelter on Earth, where he befriends Tip, an adventurous young girl who is on a quest to find her displaced mother Lucy. Rated PG.<\/p>\n Winter Wonderland<\/p>\n 4 p.m. Dec. 13. Wesley Chapel District Park, 7727 Boyette Road. The main part of the event will be held from 4-6 p.m. inside the recreation complex. Don\u2019t miss a visit from Santa, bounce houses, crafts, food trucks and more. At 6 p.m. the event moves to the back lawn for a movie in the park, so bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and all things cozy. $2. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/2uj2w57v<\/a><\/p>\n Murder at the Ugly Christmas Sweater Party<\/p>\n 4-7 p.m. Dec. 13. St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church, 5855 16th St., Zephyrhills. St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church cordially invites you to a Murder Mystery Dinner Party. Reservations required. Cocktails and appetizers at 4 p.m. followed by dinner at 5 p.m. Tickets $30 each or $50 per couple. Call 813-782-1202 to reserve your ticket.<\/p>\n Annual Golf Cart & Bike Parade<\/p>\n 6-9 p.m. Dec. 13. Oldsmar Public Library, 400 St. Petersburg Drive E., Join golf cart enthusiasts and bicyclists for a decorated holiday parade through downtown.\u202fRegistration fee $5 per cart\/bike. Parade starts and ends at the Oldsmar Public Library. Call 813-749-1152.<\/p>\n Santa’s Scientific Workshop<\/p>\n 6-9 p.m. Dec. 13. MOSI, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. Meet Santa Claus and capture a special photo to remember the evening. Write letters to Santa and send your wishes straight to the North Pole with MOSI\u2019s Magical Mailbox. Explore festive science experiments that bring holiday magic to life and take part in a dazzling planetarium show to journey through the stars. Enjoy holiday treats along the way. $15 for youth under 18, $20 for adults. https:\/\/mosi.org\/event\/santas-scientific-workshop<\/a><\/p>\n Caribbean Night<\/p>\n 7-11 p.m. Dec. 13. Krate at the Grove, 5862 Goldview Parkway, Wesley Chapel. Held each second Saturday of the month. Visit the Krate while DJ Q Spins the best Reggae, Soca, and calypso music.<\/p>\n Holiday Concert<\/p>\n 7:30-9 p.m. Dec. 13. Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. From the campfire to the red carpet, members from all walks of life come together to share their gifts and love of song. The Carrollwood Community Chorus performs regularly at the Center, as well as other local events, and has even been known to \u201cpop up\u201d in crowds around the holidays. Everyone in this ensemble has a song in their heart and brings heart to each song. $12-$15. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/yfyayuww<\/a><\/p>\n SUNDAY<\/p>\n Harvest Market<\/p>\n 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 14. The Grove at Wesley Chapel, 6105 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Second and fourth Sunday Harvest Market hosts 60-plus vendors, artists, artisans, makers, crafters, and more. Free. www.facebook.com\/flpenguinmarkets<\/a><\/p>\n Seminole Heights Sunday Morning Market<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 14. American Legion Post 111, 6918 N Florida Ave., Tampa. this vibrant market features over 70 local vendors offering everything from fresh produce and artisanal goods to delicious food and unique handmade items. Enjoy live local music as you stroll through the market, which is both dog-friendly and family-friendly, with free parking available. Every second Sunday of the month. www.tampabaymarkets.com\/seminole-heights-sunday-market<\/a><\/p>\n Second Sunday Art Walk<\/p>\n 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 14. Armature Works at the Heights, 1910 N. Ola Ave., Tampa. The art walk and vendor fair take place each second Sunday of the month. It features a rotating cast of artisanal artists and makers selling handmade goods, jewelry, art, woodwork, gifts and more.<\/p>\n Toys for Tots Rally<\/p>\n 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 14. Midtown Tampa, 3650 Midtown Drive, Tampa. Midtown will be hosting its fourth annual Toys for Tots rally in partnership with Dimmit Automotive Group to bring over 100 exotic, luxury cars filled with thousands of children\u2019s toys on display in the Midtown Commons. In addition to toy donations and the supercars on display, there will also be live holiday music, activity stations for kids and a photo booth with Santa Claus. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/2vb5wtwc<\/a><\/p>\n Jingle Bell Bazaar<\/p>\n Noon-6 p.m. Dec. 14. Centennial Park, 1800 E. 8th St., Ybor City. Enjoy live music, entertainment performances, and delicious food from our array of food trucks. Shop unique holiday gifts from local vendors, and visit Santa’s Village for arts and crafts, free face painting, and photos with Santa. Free. www.jinglebellbazaar.com<\/a><\/p>\n Taste of Tampa Festival<\/p>\n Noon-6 p.m. Dec. 14. Hillsborough College, 4100 W. Tampa Bay Blvd., Tampa. Come and celebrate all things Tampa and Tampa Bay at the Taste of Tampa Festival\/Sabor de Tampa. Free. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/2p9hrfbf<\/a><\/p>\n MONDAY<\/p>\n Painting with Rick Austin<\/p>\n 1-3 p.m. Dec. 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 Donation Based Community Yoga<\/p>\n 6-7:15 p.m. Dec. 15. 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 Turn the Page Book Discussion<\/p>\n 10:30 a.m. Dec. 16. Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W Bearss Ave., Tampa. Join the library for a discussion of \u201cCassandra in Reverse\u201d by Holly Smale.<\/p>\n New Tampa Women’s Prayer Connection Luncheon<\/p>\n 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 16. Tampa Palms Golf and Country Club, 5811 Tampa Palms Blvd., Tampa. Join the group for a luncheon. This month\u2019s speaker is Jo Wright, who will share her story of “Perfectly Imperfect.” The meeting will also feature Caroling Christmas. Plan to come and celebrate and plan to bring a friend or two. Make your reservation by mailing a check for $30 to Linda Wilson, 12721 Carte Drive, Tampa, FL 33618.<\/p>\n General Knowledge Trivia Night<\/p>\n 5-7 p.m. Dec. 16. 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. 16. 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 Women’s Climbing Meetup<\/p>\n 6-8 p.m. Dec. 16. Central Rock Gym Tampa, 4479 W Gandy Blvd., Suite B. Every third Tuesday of the month, all women and non-binary persons are welcome. These meet ups are open to climbers of all skill levels. Free for members, $15 for non-members. Reserve your spot at https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/ytnbck7n<\/a><\/p>\n Santa\u2019s Workshop at the Old Lutz School<\/p>\n 6-8:30 p.m. Dec. 16. Old School Lutz, 18819 U.S. Highway 41, Lutz. Elves have been working their magic, turning the classrooms into a twinkling display of model trains, nutcrackers, LEGO villages, nativity scenes and Christmas trees decorated by local organizations. Free, but a suggested non-perishable food donation or toy to help local families is appreciated.<\/p>\n History as a Joke: Snow Show<\/p>\n 7-8 p.m. Dec. 16. Tampa Bay History Center, 801 Water St., Tampa. Join comedians Johnny B, John J. Murray, and Matt Fernandez from the 3 Ugly Mugs podcast, along with the History Center\u2019s Rodney Kite-Powell, for a hilarious look back at one of Tampa\u2019s strangest winter tales. $10. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/mthnk342<\/a><\/p>\n Big Band Jam<\/p>\n 7 p.m. Dec. 16. 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. 17. 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 Ales and Tales Book Club<\/p>\n 6-7 p.m. Dec. 17. In the Loop Brewing, 3338 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes. Join the library for a book club discussion on \u201cWho is Maud Dixon\u201d by Alexandra Andrews. Recommended for ages 21+.<\/p>\n Al-Anon Family Groups (Families and Friends of Alcoholics)<\/p>\n 7-8 p.m. Dec. 17. 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. 17. B&B Theatres, 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Game nights alternate between trivia and bingo each week. This week’s theme is Christmas music bingo. Free to play, no reservations required.<\/p>\n LOOKING AHEAD<\/p>\n Medicare Basics<\/p>\n 10:30 a.m. Dec. 18. New River Library, 34043 FL-54, Wesley Chapel. A Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders (SHINE) volunteer will be available to answer Medicare questions. SHINE services are free, unbiased, and confidential. SHINE counselors do not sell anything. 813-788-6375.<\/p>\n Free Christmas Jazz Concert<\/p>\n 1:30-2:45 p.m. Dec. 18. Harvester Community Church, 2432 Collier Parkway, Land O’Lakes. Sweet Jazz Tampa Bay, a 4-piece live band featuring local musicians, will be performing a “Senior Friendly” concert. You will hear a variety of “old-fashioned” holiday classics and seasonal standards that you just don’t seem to find anymore. Bring your family and friends and even have fun with a couple of audience “sing-alongs.\u201d 813-948-2311.<\/p>\n Santa\u2019s Workshop at the Old Lutz School<\/p>\n 6-8:30 p.m. Dec. 18. Old School Lutz, 18819 U.S. Highway 41, Lutz. Elves have been working their magic, turning the classrooms into a twinkling display of model trains, nutcrackers, LEGO villages, nativity scenes and Christmas trees decorated by local organizations. Free, but a suggested non-perishable food donation or toy to help local families is appreciated.<\/p>\n Third Thursday Tampa<\/p>\n 6-10 p.m. Dec. 18. Grand Central at Kennedy, 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., Unit 208, Tampa. Since 2012, every third Thursday features live music, cocktails and food trucks on Madison Street at Grand Central at Kennedy in the center of the Channel District of downtown Tampa.<\/p>\n ELVIS: A Blue Christmas Show<\/p>\n 7-9 p.m. Dec. 18. New Tampa Performing Arts Center, 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa. Matt Stone performs the closest thing to the King in history. Stone brings a never-before-seen level of authenticity and attention to detail to his craft, captivating audiences with his flawless recreation of the King of Rock \u2019n\u2019 Roll in his prime. $30-$87. www.newtampaartscenter.org\/events<\/a><\/p>\n Movie Screening \u201cElf\u201d<\/p>\n 3 p.m. Dec. 19. New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa. After accidentally falling into Santa Claus’ gift sack, a human baby is raised at the North Pole, growing up to believe he is an elf. Due to his large size, the “elf” causes chaos in Santa’s workshop, forcing Kris Kringle to send him on a mission to find his human roots. Rated PG.<\/p>\n Laser Light Shows: Holiday\/Pink Floyd<\/p>\n 6:30 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. Dec. 19. MOSI, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. Laser light shows are taking over MOSI\u2019s new Saunders Planetarium & Digital Dome Theatre. Step inside America\u2019s second-largest planetarium and experience vivid laser visuals, dynamic music, and dazzling special effects. The first show will feature a mix of holiday music, while the second show will feature the music of Pink Floyd. $10-$13. https:\/\/mosi.org\/event\/laser-light-shows<\/a><\/p>\n Fresh Market at Wiregrass<\/p>\n 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 20. 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 Medicare Basics<\/p>\n 10 a.m. Dec. 20. Land O\u2019 Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway. A Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders (SHINE) volunteer will be available to answer Medicare questions. SHINE services are free, unbiased, and confidential. SHINE counselors do not sell anything. 813-929-1214.<\/p>\n Holiday Downtown Saturday Market<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 20. Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, 4424 Friendly Way. Visit a vibrant outdoor market experience filled with gifts, baked goods, home decor, and your favorite local small businesses just in time for the holidays.<\/p>\n Very Merry Midtown Market<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 20. Midtown Tampa, 3650 Midtown Drive, Tampa. Midtown will be hosting its second annual Merry Midtown Market in partnership with Tampa Bay Markets to offer unique special programming including complimentary gift wrapping, festive holiday beverages and live holiday music while shoppers can pick from a curated selection of locally sourced goods suitable for last-minute holiday gifting. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/muy9a66m<\/a><\/p>\n Saturday Night Market<\/p>\n 5-9 p.m. Dec. 20. Florida Avenue Brewing Co., 4315 N Florida Ave., Tampa. Browse handmade goods, unique gifts, and local treasures while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the brewery. Grab a brew, explore the market, and make some cherished memories with the whole family. Every third Saturday of every month.<\/p>\n Holiday Lighted Boat Parade<\/p>\n 6:15 p.m. Dec. 20. The parade kicks off near the Lighthouse off Davis Islands, with both large and small vessels cruising past Sparkman Wharf, Harbour Island, and ending at the Tampa Convention Center. Spectators can enjoy free viewing along the Riverwalk at multiple locations, with judging and a VIP viewing area located at Sparkman Wharf. All registered boats are eligible for prizes. https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/yty3juvj<\/a><\/p>\n Santa\u2019s Workshop at the Old Lutz School<\/p>\n 6-8:30 p.m. Dec. 20. Old School Lutz, 18819 U.S. Highway 41, Lutz. Elves have been working their magic, turning the classrooms into a twinkling display of model trains, nutcrackers, LEGO villages, nativity scenes and Christmas trees decorated by local organizations. Free, but a suggested non-perishable food donation or toy to help local families is appreciated.<\/p>\n \u201880s Night<\/p>\n 7-11 p.m. Dec. 20. Krate at the Grove, 5862 Goldview Parkway, Wesley Chapel. Held every third Saturday of the month. Soundtrack by the legendary DJ Charlie Chase, mixing all of your favorite hits from your favorite era.<\/p>\n The Market at Water Street Tampa<\/p>\n 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 21. Water Street, 971 Water St., Tampa. Every third Sunday, start fresh with The Market at Water Street Tampa. Shop from 60-plus local food and wellness-focused vendors with an array of fresh, local, homemade, handcrafted, fair-trade, vintage or eco-friendly products.<\/p>\n Pasko 2025<\/p>\n 12-6:30 p.m. Dec. 21. Bayanihan Arts and Events Center, 14301 Nine Eagles Drive, Tampa. The Philippine Cultural Foundation, Inc., together with the Bicol Association of Southern Florida and the Philippine Nurses Association, Gulf Coast Chapter, warmly invites you to experience Pasko 2025, a spectacular Christmas celebration bursting with Filipino energy, color, and community spirit. The evening will continue with a treasured Simbang Gabi service beginning at 7 p.m.<\/p>\n Board Game Night<\/p>\n 1-11 p.m. Dec. 21. 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 Meet Loaf: The Nationally-Touring Tribute<\/p>\n 7-10 p.m. Dec. 21. New Tampa Performing Arts Center, 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa. Experience a world-class show that delivers powerful wide-ranging male and female operatic lead vocals, along with the epic theatrical elements that Meat Loaf fans have come to love, in an unforgettable evening of smash hits. $17-$25. www.newtampaartscenter.org\/events\/meetloaf<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Our Top 3 Tampa City Ballet Presents: The Nutcracker 7:30 p.m. Dec. 12-14. 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