File video: Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights drive-thru display in 2023.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Halloween is quickly approaching, which only means it’s about that time to pull out the Santa hats and eggnog.
And to get Tampa Bay into the holiday spirit, the Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village is making its return in November at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds.
This year, the festival will feature an expanded light show and adult beverages from Thursday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 29.
Enveloped with more than 1.5 million lights, visitors will experience over two miles of seasonal and Florida-themed displays, along with a drive-thru animated light tunnel including a new area of “Santa’s Winter Woodland.”
The festival will also have Santa’s Village— packed with holiday-themed rides and activities, a self-guided walking tour, holiday goodies and treats, movies, shopping, and of course, a visit with Santa Claus himself.
For the adults, Keel & Curley Wine will offer wine and cider this year in Santa’s Village.
The festival also has a line-up of special entertainment:
- Nov. 29 – EVE
- Nov. 30 – Jordan Denise Williams
- Dec. 1 – Riverview High School Victorian Carolers
- Dec. 5-8 – Strong and Amazing Aerial Stunt Show with Laura J
- Dec. 12-15 – Dennis Lee Band
- Dec. 19-24 – Dennis Lee Band
- Dec. 26 – EVE
- Dec. 27 – Jordan Denise Williams
- Dec. 28 – Dance 4 Donations
- Dec. 29 – Aimee Carter
During the five-week seasonal event, two of those nights will be dedicated to active and retired military and service members and your furry friends:
- Thursday, Dec. 5 – Heroes Night: Active and retired Military, Police, Fire, and First Responders with ID get a discounted admission of $15 per car (must show ID at the gate)
- Thursday, Dec. 12 – Paws & Claus Night: Bring your dogs and cats (on a leash) for a free printed pet photo with Santa with a $10 donation to the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center
Pre-sale tickets are available and can be purchased here.
Click here for more information on this year’s event.