Tampa's 2023 Santa Fest Parade & Tree Lighting

The City of Tampa is getting into the holiday spirit with the return of the annual Santa Fest Parade and Tampa Tree Lighting on Saturday, December 2, at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.

PARADE ROUTE & ROAD CLOSURES

At 12:00 p.m., streets along the parade route will close. The parade steps off at 1:00 p.m. at Morgan Street and Madison Street, traveling west on Madison Street to Ashley Drive. The parade will turn north on Ashley Drive, ending at Ashley Drive and Cass Street. The best viewing is along Madison Street.

Parade goers are encouraged to stop by Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park for entertainment, make-n-take crafts, delicious food, and more at Santa Fest from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM.

TAMPA TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

Following the parade, Mayor Jane Castor will lead Tampa's Tree Lighting Ceremony starting at 6:00 PM. The lighting will be followed by a holiday movie in the park, Disney's Frozen, beginning at 6:30 PM.

Tampa’s Santa Fest & Tree Lighting is a collaborative effort between the City of Tampa and Friends of Tampa Recreation.