Illustration of Santa posing with a family on a bench under string lights for a photographer (Winter Village Tampa)
Christmas Lights

Winter Village Tampa

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park transforms for the holidays with an outdoor ice rink, holiday treats from the café, and curated market boutiques set inside PODS containers. Visitors can take to the ice, watch live skating performances against the Hillsborough River, and borrow headphones for a daily silent disco. Seasonal activities also include character meet-and-greets and Saturday evening entertainment.

Nov 20, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

Winter Village admission is free. Ice skating is $17 per skater, or $15 per skater for children under 12; skate rental and 75 minutes of skate time are included. College students get $2 off skating rentals on Thursdays from 5-9pm. Shops and café goods, food and drink are for purchase.

Hours

College Night Thursdays 5-9pm; Shop Small Weekend November 28–29 1–4pm; Festive Saturdays every Saturday 7–8 p.m.; Character Visits select Sundays 1–4 p.m.

Neighborhood

Downtown Tampa

Food & Drink

The event café lists Blind Tiger, Gourmet Crepes & Coffee, Hot Dog Fever, and Whatever Pops; café dates and hours differ from skating hours.

Parking

Parking is available for a nominal rate at multiple locations adjacent to Winter Village, including the William F. Poe Parking Garage north of Curtis Hixon Park. The page encourages visitors to park once and walk the Riverwalk to other Downtown destinations.

Pets

Leashed dogs are welcome in Winter Village event areas, but dogs are not allowed on the ice rink.

Location

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park · 600 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa, FL 33602 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and holiday shoppers

Vibe

Festive and lively

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Reserve a timed skating ticket in advance; if the session you want is full, walk-up visitors can use a QR code to find another available time.
  • Complete the required skating waiver after booking, since e-tickets are issued only after the waiver is completed.
  • Bring valid ID to borrow Silent Disco headphones, which are first-come, first-served and must be returned after use.
  • Consider parking once and walking the Riverwalk to other downtown destinations during your visit.
  • If you are a college student, visit on a Thursday during College Night to get the skating-rental discount.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Winter Village admission is free; skating requires paid admission and an advance timed reservation.
  • Children under 12 get a reduced skating price.
  • College students get a discount on skating rentals on Thursdays.
  • Ice Skating Shows take place on select nights; dates are to be announced.
  • College Night is on Thursdays.

Links & Contact

Run by Tampa Downtown Partnership

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Winter Village suitable for children?

Yes. The event is open to all ages and includes family activities, seasonal character visits on select Sundays, and an ice rink.

Do I need to reserve skating in advance?

Yes. Skating requires an advance timed reservation. Walk-up visitors can use an on-site QR code to see and book other available sessions if the current one is full.

What food and shopping are available?

The café offers food and drinks, and market shops feature local small businesses, handmade goods, and gifts. Food, drinks, and shop items are for purchase.

Where can I park and how can I get around?

Parking is available at nearby locations, including the William F. Poe Parking Garage north of the park. DASH Tampa and the Pirate Water Taxi are also options, and the Riverwalk connects to downtown destinations.

Can I bring my dog?

Leashed dogs are welcome in Winter Village event areas, but dogs are not allowed on the ice rink.

Browse Christmas in Tampa

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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