Search Results for: christmas

Savor the Season: Dine-In Spots for Christmas Brunch

Savor the Season: Dine-In Spots for Christmas Brunch

You’ve got a lot on your plate during the holidays, so we’ve compiled the best list of places for Christmas brunch!

Tampa Bay’s BEST Restaurants for Christmas Dinner, Including To-Go Options!

Tampa Bay’s BEST Restaurants for Christmas Dinner, Including To-Go Options!

The Best Christmas Dinner Spots in Tampa Bay – from Sit Down Restaurants to Amazing To Go Christmas Meals!

Books to Gift

The 12 Days of Bookmas – Books to Gift this Christmas

Explore 12 books to gift this holiday season that will make your presents feel extra meaningful and perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Christmas Town Holly Jolly train Best Christmas Events in Tampa Bay

The Best Christmas Events for Families in Tampa Bay

Whether you want to meet Santa, take in the dazzling beauty of Christmas lights, or celebrate the season at local theme parks, we’re sharing our list of our favorite Christmas events in Tampa Bay for families.

Randolph the Reindeer and elves at ZooTampa Christmas in the Wild

Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa is bigger and brighter in 2024!

One of our favorite holiday events in Tampa Bay, Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa, returns for 16 select nights beginning November 29!

Tree Brothers Christmas Trees in Odessa

10 Cool Places to Buy a Christmas Tree this Year in Tampa Bay

We’re sharing some of our favorite places to buy Christmas trees in Tampa Bay, including where to cut your own tree.

Best Christmas Lights in Tampa Bay Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa

Where to find the most DAZZLING Christmas lights in Tampa Bay

Christmas Lights are starting to Sparkle in Tampa Bay! Get into the Holiday Spirit with a stroll or drive by these beautiful Christmas lights!

christmas town at busch gardens tampa bay

INSIDE LOOK: What to Expect at Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

We attended Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on opening night to give you a peek at what to expect to help you plan your magical night out.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

A Parent’s Guide to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom 2024

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party returns in 2024 on select nights from November 8 through December 20. We’re sharing our favorite things about this magical event!

Ergle Tree Farm Cut your own Christmas Tree

Yes, you CAN cut down your own Florida Christmas Tree at Ergle Tree Farm!

Discover this adorable tree farm in Dade City where you can cut down your own Florida Christmas tree this holiday season, or shop for a pre-cut tree from North Carolina!

The Most Adorable Places to Celebrate Christmas on the Farm in Tampa Bay

The Most Adorable Places to Celebrate Christmas on the Farm in Tampa Bay

There are several events happening this year at local farms from single-day special events to family-friendly holiday events on the farms on weekends. There is so much to explore and experience! Check out our list of the best farms to celebrate a festive country-style Christmas! Related stories you may LOVE: Yes, you CAN cut down…

JUST ANNOUNCED! Disney’s Hollywood Studios Christmas Party “Jollywood Nights” Returns

JUST ANNOUNCED! Disney’s Hollywood Studios Christmas Party “Jollywood Nights” Returns

Disney’s Hollywood Studios will offer an all-new festive after-hours Christmas party which will include exclusive access to attractions and unique entertainment for the holiday season.

Light up dance floor at Enchant Christmas in St. Pete 2023

What to Expect at Enchant Christmas at Tropicana Field in St. Pete

Enchant Christmas is back at Tropicana Field in St. Pete. We’re sharing everything you need to know before you go.

Denis Phillips Holiday Lights

Local meteorologist Denis Phillips celebrates the holiday season with Christmas cheer and cocoa for a cause

It might not snow in Tampa, but local weatherman Denis Phillips certainly knows how to create a whimsical winter wonderland. The local ABC Action News meteorologist is known for his cheery persona, signature suspenders, and love of Diet Dr. Pepper. During hurricane season, his famous slogan “Rule #7” can be heard on repeat from residents…

Gallagher’s Christmas Trees in St. Pete

Gallagher’s Christmas Trees: A Tradition of Making Forever Memories

From the picture-perfect pumpkins and Christmas trees to magical moments with Santa, Gallagher’s is more than a pumpkin patch or tree lot.

Endless Kid-Friendly Fun at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration

Endless Kid-Friendly Fun at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration

There is so much to do this holiday season, both in Tampa Bay and in Orlando. It can be hard to decide what to do. If you have younger kids, especially preschool age, SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration is a must-do. I’ve visited every single Orlando theme park this holiday season, as I tend to do…

AHOY! Let’s board a Pirate’s Christmas Cruise on the Lost Pearl!

AHOY! Let’s board a Pirate’s Christmas Cruise on the Lost Pearl!

Come aboard with us as we share our adventure on The Lost Pearl’s ‘A Pirate’s Christmas Cruise’ in Downtown Tampa!

New Year's Eve in Tampa ay

Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Tampa Bay: Parade, Fireworks and More!

Get ready to ring in 2024 with these awesome family-friendly and adults-only New Year’s Eve events around Tampa Bay!

LEGO Santa at Holidays at LEGOLAND

20+ FUN Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Weekend

We’ve rounded up our list of events going on this weekend such as Elf in Concert at the Straz Center, holiday events around Tampa Bay, and MORE!

Balancing technology and education

Navigating Parents’ Digital Dilemma: Balancing Technology and Education

Tech isn’t all bad! We’re sharing expert tips for parents on how to balance technology and education to promote safe and effective digital use.

Breakfast with Santa on Yacht Starship

Where to Eat Breakfast With Santa In Tampa Bay

Breakfast with Santa is a great way to let your kids see the big guy up close and personal. Fill the season with holiday cheer with one of these great breakfast with Santa options. Related: Where to Take Pictures with Santa in Tampa Bay Breakfast with Santa Tampa Bay GFWC Tampa Woman’s Club Breakfast with…

Things to Do Thanksgiving Week in Tampa Bay

Our Favorite Things to Do Thanksgiving Break in Tampa Bay

Lucky you for calling Tampa Bay home. There are so many things to do in Tampa Bay. From day camps to events and activities, we’ve got it all on our top picks list.

Thanksgiving Take-Out and Dining In in Tampa Bay

Where to get Thanksgiving Dinner in Tampa Bay: Dine in Restaurants and To-Go Options

Let someone else do the cooking! We’re sharing our top picks of Thanksgiving Dinner take-out and dining in options in Tampa Bay.

Winter Village Tampa

NEW Festive Fun Arrives in Downtown Tampa at Winter Village

Curtis Hixon Park has transformed into a Winter Village once again filled with holiday lights, ice-skating, theme nights, curling, NEW ice-skating shows, and MORE!

Jarod Curley with the American Ballet Theatre returns to The Straz for the Next Generation Ballet's Nutcracker in December.

Next Generation Ballet alumnus Jarod Curley returns for Nutracker at The Straz

We’re catching up with Jarod Curley, an alumnus of Next Generation Ballet who now dances with the American Ballet Theatre. He is returning to The Straz as a guest star dancer in the 2024 production of Nutcracker.

See Santa at YuleTides

Splash Into the Holidays with the ALL-NEW YuleTides at The Florida Aquarium!

The Florida Aquarium is bring a NEW holiday tradition to Tampa Bay! Check out what you can experience at YuleTides, from November 29-January 5.

kids can volunteer at Feeding Tampa Bay

How to Volunteer with the Kids in Tampa Bay: 10+ ways to give back

We’re sharing ways you can volunteer with the kids in Tampa Bay to turn quality family time into give back time!

Picture with Santa at Magic Kingdom at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party 2024

Where to See Santa at Walt Disney World

Our complete guide on Where to See Santa at Walt Disney World will make it easy for your family to see Santa Claus at Disney.

Catch All the Festive Films This Season with Tampa Theatre’s Holiday Classics!

Catch All the Festive Films This Season with Tampa Theatre’s Holiday Classics!

Tampa Theatre’s Holiday Classics lineup is back for 2024, and you can catch some of your favorite festive flicks at the city’s most iconic theatre this season!

Gaylord Palms ICE in Orlando ice slide

Gaylord Palms Celebrates the Holidays with The Return of ICE!

Gaylord Palms Celebrates the Holidays with ICE! featuring Elf! Buddy the Elf and his friends return this year for some magical holiday fun.

free holiday events in Tampa Bay

The BEST Free and Cheap Holiday Events in Tampa Bay

We’re sharing our favorite free and cheap holiday events and Christmas events in Tampa Bay to help you save!

Best Christmas Shows in Tampa Bay The Nutcracker at The Straz

The Best Holiday Shows in Tampa Bay to See With the Kids

We’re sharing some of our favorite Christmas shows on stage in Tampa Bay to help you plan your December to remember.

holiday parades and boat parades in Tampa Bay

15 Awesome Holiday Parades and Lighted Boat Parades in Tampa Bay

Parades are such a fun way to celebrate the holidays with the family and the best part is, it’s free to attend!

santa claus in Tampa Bay

Where to Take Pictures with Santa in Tampa Bay in 2024

We’re sharing some of our favorite spots to take pictures with Santa in Tampa Bay.

blippi at busch gardens

Blippi is Coming to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay!

Join everyone’s favorite energetic friend, Blippi, for Blippi’s Interactive Experience at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay November 9 and 10!

Where to see the Nutcracker in Tampa Bay The Straz Center

Where to see The Nutcracker in Tampa Bay

The beloved holiday performance is returning to the stage in 2024! We’re sharing our favorite places to see The Nutcracker in Tampa Bay.

Jacob Ari Kamis

Kids to Know: Remembering Jacob Ari Kamis (2006-2022)

Learn about Tampa teen, Jacob Ari Kamis, who’s legacy continues to shine through a photographer contest at Florida Museum of Photographic Arts.

Letters from Santa

Don’t miss out on the USPS letters from Santa program!

The United States Postal Service is giving your child the opportunity to participate in the “Greetings from the North Pole” program for the cost of a postage stamp!

LEGOLAND Florida Hotels Florida resident deals

Awesome Florida Resident Deals in Tampa Bay and Beyond!

We’re sharing some amazing Florida resident deals at area attractions and resorts to help you plan your most epic local getaway ever!

LEGOLAND entrance holidays 2023

INSIDE LOOK: Why we love HOLIDAYS at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

HOLIDAYS at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort return in November and we’re taking you inside the fun to help you build your most awesome day ever!

DIY Halloween Costumes Mickey Mouse

Scary Good: Our Team Shares Their Favorite DIY Halloween Costumes

Our team here at Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine share their favorite DIY Halloween costumes to spark some ghoulishly good ideas this Halloween!

TECO Manatee Viewing Center

The sweetest way to see Manatees: The TECO Manatee Viewing Center

The TECO Manatee Viewing Center is back open for the season! This is one of our favorite free things to do with the kids in Tampa Bay!

Tampa Bay's Best Pumpkin Patches Armature World

20+ Best Pumpkin Patches in Tampa Bay to Visit with the Kids

Your Guide to the Best Pumpkin Patches from around Tampa Bay! Get ready for an amazing experience to welcome Fall – and some great pictures!

Halloween Events and Fall Festivals in Tampa Bay

50+ Fall Events, Pumpkin Patches, Halloween Events, and MORE!

The 2024 list of pumpkin patches, haunted houses, and fall festivals in Tampa Bay is here and promises some ghoulishly good times.

Holiday Break Camps in Tampa Bay 2024

Holiday Break Camps in Tampa Bay 2024

School might be out but there are still plenty of awesome camps around town to keep the kids busy! Check out these cool camps for kids during the 2023 holiday season.

Meet Mickey at Walt Disney World - Image credit Walt Disney World - Disney Photo Pass

Where to Meet Mickey, Disney Princesses, and MORE at Walt Disney World

It doesn’t matter how old you are. Whenever you see Mickey Mouse, you can’t help but smile. Interacting with and meeting Disney characters is a must when visiting Walt Disney World. However, finding them can sometimes be challenging. Get your camera and autograph book ready because we did the work for you, breaking down where…

13 Scenic Road Trips to Experience the Beautiful Colors of Fall

13 Scenic Road Trips to Experience the Beautiful Colors of Fall

Check out these easy and accessible trips outside of Florida to take where you can experience the vibrant colors of the fall season!

Courage & Grace Foundation Inc. Maxine Reyes

Mom to Know: Maxine Reyes

From the Air Force to the Army, Maxine Reyes shares about her incredible career with the U.S. Military, plus founding Courage & Grace Foundation.

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party 2024 Minnie and friends

A Parent’s Guide to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2024

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is back for 2024! We went on opening night to share all of the ghoulish details to help you plan an epic night!

Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Beyond the Veil character from new haunted house in 2024

Howl-O-Scream Returns to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with All-New Frights!

Howl-O-Scream returns to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on September 7, 2024 and we’re dishing on all the details to help you plan a night of fright!

Phoenix Rising at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

FIRST LOOK: The ALL-NEW Phoenix Rising Coaster at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay!

Take a sneak peek at the ALL NEW Phoenix Rising at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay!

Adventure Island Castaway Falls

Dive into Fun this Summer at Adventure Island!

It’s summer in Florida, which means the heat is ON! What better way to cool off than by splashing around at a water park? One of our favorite ways to keep cool when the weather is hot is to spend the day at Adventure Island, Tampa’s island paradise. The park is chock full of thrilling…

Sand Key Beach

Spend a Summer Day at Sand Key Park

Sand Key Park is one of our top picks for beaches we love taking kids to! Check out why we love spending salty summer days here.

Festival of the Holidays at EPCOT 2023

The BEST Things to Do with Kids at EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays

From the best eats to the best storytellers, here are the best things to do with kids at EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays 2023.

Free things to do in Tampa Bay with the kids Weedon Island Preserve

40+ BEST Free Things to Do with the Kids in Tampa Bay

You don’t have to be a penny pincher to want to take advantage of a free or cheap deal every now and then. This is the full guide to the most awesome free and cheap things to do in Tampa Bay with the kids!

Dance Party at H2O Glow at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon

Avoid the Long Lines and Celebrate at a Disney After Hours Party!

We love the Disney After Hours events for two reasons: the lines are shorter and it’s a lot less hot outside since you’re not sweltering in the blazing hot Florida sun.

A beautiful noise broadway

The Straz Center Announces its 2024-2025 Broadway Season Lineup!

The 2024-2025 Broadway at The Straz season lineup is here, and some amazing shows are heading to town, including the return of Disney’s The Lion King!

busch-gardens-preschool-card

The Busch Gardens + Adventure Island FREE Preschool Card is Back in 2024!

NEW – extended registration date for 2024! The free Busch Gardens Preschool Card is BACK for 2024 and it includes visits to Adventure Island too! If you thought you missed the deadline, don’t worry – they’ve extended the dates to register and redeem! The 2024 Preschool card allows for FREE unlimited visits to Busch Gardens Tampa…

Busch Gardens Mardi Gras Bead Toss

The Big Easy Meets Big Thrills at Busch Gardens Mardi Gras!

Get a taste of the Big Easy right here in Tampa Bay with Busch Gardens Mardi Gras! Enjoy live music, parades, Cajun-inspired food and more!

Truett Gardner YMKG Captain

Krewe Life: Meet Truett Gardner of YMKG and His Family

YMKG’s captain, Truett Gardner, will lead the legendary invasion. Truett shares treasured Gasparilla memories, extending from his childhood to ones made with his children, along with what he’s looking forward to for the 2024 Gasparilla season.

Bayshore Christian Fourth Grade

Kids to Know: Bayshore Christian School’s Fourth Grade Class

Every fall at Bayshore Christian School, the fourth grade classes gather to plan for a market. The products, packaging and prices are determined individually by each nine and ten year old student. However, they decide collectively how the profits from the project will be used. While they learned how to execute a successful business, they…

seaward preschool card

Get Your Preschooler into SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica for FREE + More Tips

SeaWorld and Aquatica are bringing back the FREE Preschool Card for 2024, but you’ll want to act fast to take advantage of this deal.

New Year's Eve Fireworks 2024

Where to Watch New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Tampa Bay with the Kids

We’re sharing some of our favorite New Year’s Eve fireworks displays Tampa Bay, including one event that launches at noon!

Gasparilla beads at South Tampa Trading Co

Ahoy, Matey! The best places in Tampa to buy Gasparilla outfits and beads

We’re sharing some of our team’s favorite spots to shop for the Children’s Gasparilla and Pirate Fest!

Big John the Triceratops at Glazer Children's Museum in Tampa

Best Winter Break Ever: Your Family Fun Bucket List in Tampa Bay

‘Tis the season for sleigh loads of winter break fun in Tampa Bay! We’re sharing our top picks of things to do!

Jason Licht Family Interview

Licht Style: It all Works Out 

Jason Licht, renowned Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ General Manager (a position he’s held since 2014), is, foremost, a dad and husband. With wife Blair, he navigates the peaks, valleys and predominantly uncertain terrain of parenting. They met during his tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles, when she lived in Manhattan working in finance. Over six years, they…

Holiday inspired lunch

A Festive Feast: Snacks and Holiday Inspired Lunch Ideas from @LunchBoxMafia

This time of year, we’re all extra busy with fun outings, get-togethers and taking in all that the holidays have to offer. Don’t forget to slow down and savor these moments—especially with your kiddos. Here’s one way to enjoy the season: through savoring the flavors of these holiday inspired lunch and snack ideas! Make a…

Nutrcracker Next Generation Ballet Tampa

INSIDE LOOK: The Magical World of Nutcracker at The Straz Center in Tampa

We’re taking you inside the production of Nutcracker by Next Generation Ballet® at the Straz which has been months in the making.

Snow Days at The Florida Aquarium Snowballs

INSIDE LOOK: Snow Days are back at The Florida Aquarium

Get your gloves ready! Snow Days are back at The Florida Aquarium and we’re giving you an INSIDE LOOK at this year’s event.

Students engaging in classroom activities

The Great American Teach-In Helps Students Explore Future Careers

The Great American Teach-In is an annual nationwide event that helps kids discover future career opportunities.

Tampa Bay Parenting Toys for Tots at Toys R Us Where to donate toys

12+ Places to Donate New Toys in Tampa Bay this Holiday Season

The high cost of living and inflation continue to make a significant impact on families and the non-profit organizations that support them. If you are financially able, donating a new toy and even food for a local family in need will make a big difference this holiday season.

Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular

Top 5 Kid-Friendly Things to do at Universal Orlando Holidays

We’re sharing our 5 favorite things to do with the kids during the holidays at Universal Orlando from Grinchmas, Harry Potter and more!

Best hotels at Disney world for the holidays

The Best Hotels at Walt Disney World for the Holidays

Celebrate Your Best Christmas Ever in Orlando! There’s no place like home for the holidays, except perhaps Walt Disney World. If you’re ready to give your family the merriest memories this holiday season at Walt Disney World then it’s time to consider booking a hotel room. Disney area hotels are booking fast for the holidays….

Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent

Thanksgiving donations desperately needed in Tampa Bay

The Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent in Tampa will officially open and begin accepting donations for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays on October 29. Once again, they need more help than ever, especially in the wake of hurricanes Helene and Milton. This year, the non-profit which serves our six county region, expects to assist more than…

Hispanic Heritage in Tampa Bay

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage: Two local moms share their deep roots in Tampa Bay

National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. Tampa is rich with Hispanic Heritage. Two Tampa moms, originally from Puerto Rico, share details about their roots and raising their own children with Hispanic heritage in Tampa Bay.

Emersyn Southwick

Kids to Know: Emersyn Southwick

Meet 7-year-old Emersyn, a remarkable little girl who bravely confronts medulloblastoma with her family, the community, and the Children’s Cancer Center by her side.

Shaka-Lake Shores at Adventure Island waterpark in Tampa

Splash Pads in Tampa Bay to Keep Your Cool

Splash pads are a great way for kids of any age to have fun and cool off. Check out our picks for some of the best splash pads in Tampa Bay!

Check Out the New Weird and Wonderful World of MORPH’D at The Florida Aquarium!

Check Out the New Weird and Wonderful World of MORPH’D at The Florida Aquarium!

Check out MORPH’D, the all-new exhibit from The Florida Aquarium where you can meet some weirdly wonderful, and unique creatures such as axolotls, chameleons, and even bird poop frogs!

Disney-Cruise-Line-Disney-Wish

What You Need to Know Before Getting on a Disney Cruise

The best way to enjoy a Disney cruise is to be prepared. Here’s what you need to know before you and your family get on a Disney cruise.

water safety to prevent drowning

Local Family Shares Story to Prevent Drownings

Water is part of the allure of living in Florida, but few realize that drowning is the leading cause of death among Florida children ages 1-4. Water Safety to Prevent Drownings One family is incredibly grateful to have averted such a tragedy. Having recently moved from Washington State to Venice, Florida, the family of five…