The Toy Insider Reveals the Hottest Toys For 2025!
The Toy Insider is sharing the best toys for 2025 to plan your holiday shopping! From playroom favorites to Best in STEM, it’s time to make your list!
Blog
The Gift of Experience in Tampa Bay: A Holiday Gift List Must
Rather than overloading our kids with more toys and clutter, why not give the gift of experience in Tampa Bay? An annual pass or membership to a local attraction is not only cost-effective, it’s a gift that keeps on giving year–round to the entire family. Added bonus- many of the attractions that offer summer camps…
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.
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.
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.
- Christmas | Christmas>Gifts>Metropolitan Ministries | Holiday Family Fun | Thanksgiving | Things to Do | Tweens and Teens | Volunteer
How Your Family Can Give the Gift of HOPE at the Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent
There is an urgent need for food and toy donations at the Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent. We’re sharing ways your family can help.
Disney’s Zootopia Better Zoogether Brings Beloved Characters (and Big Lessons) to Families at Animal Kingdom
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the colorful world of Zootopia comes to life in a way families have never seen before. Zootopia Better Zoogether, debuting inside the park’s iconic Tree of Life, invites guests to celebrate Zoogether Day with familiar friends and new faces from the hit film and its upcoming sequel. It’s the latest attraction…
The Best Turkey Trots in Tampa Bay this Thanksgiving
We’ve got a list of great family-friendly Turkey Trots in Tampa this Thanksgiving that will help your family burn energy and have fun!
Veterans Day Deals and Parades Around Tampa Bay
Veterans Day is on Tuesday, November 11, and there are several places around Tampa Bay offering deals to veterans and their families this weekend.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios Christmas Party “Jollywood Nights” Returns for 2025
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.
Kids to Know: Jacob Pham, 8th grader at Corbett Prep Performed as Simba on Broadway in New York City
He’s only in 8th grade, and yet Corbett Prep 8th grader Jacob Pham has already lived a dream of so many: performing in one of the longest-running shows on Broadway, “The Lion King.” But landing the role of Young Simba was not overnight success, but the result of years of hard work, perseverance and the…
Future Career Academy Helps Seniors Plan What’s Next
“Come to us for the job … stay for the career.” Those were the words of Bill McDaniel, City Manager of Plant City, as he addressed a packed auditorium of seniors at Durant High School. McDaniel was one of several panelists representing the Future Career Academy (FCA), a program that partners with Hillsborough County Public…
Tampa mom gets new home for the holidays thanks to local HGTV stars and Habitat for Humanity
Thanks to Habitat for Humanity, a new Thanksgiving tradition is beginning at the Simmons family home this year. As usual, three generations of women — grandmother, mother and daughters — will prepare the meal together “from scratch and with love.” The menu will include all their favorite dishes: turkey, pot roast, honey ham, mashed potatoes,…
Kickoff to the Next Generation: The Gramatica Legacy Evolves
For the Gramatica family, hard work and athleticism are part of the DNA. In 2003, Martin Gramatica helped lead the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to their first Super Bowl victory. Today, Martin has traded his kicking tee for a whistle — coaching youth soccer, cheering from the sidelines and mentoring his athletic trio: Nico, a kicker…
Moms to Know: Molly Lippincott, Senior Curator of Florida & Marine Life at ZooTampa
Get to know Molly Lippincott, senior curator at ZooTampa at Lowry Park as the Zoo gets ready to debut all-new animal experiences in 2026!
TumbleBookLibrary – Digital Storytelling That Delivers
Being thankful in November holds special significance because it aligns with the spirit of Thanksgiving, a time dedicated to reflection, gratitude and connection. As the year comes to a close, November offers a natural pause to reflect on the people, experiences and lessons that have shaped our lives. Practicing gratitude not only strengthens relationships, but…
The Play List: Play Cafes in Tampa Bay, Wondergrounds and Little Play Place
Parents and kiddos say, “Hey! Tampa Bay has new indoor places to play!” After eyeing the play cafés in Orlando for some time, we’re thrilled to see that Tampa has added a few options of its own throughout the Bay for indoor play. With locations in Wesley Chapel, South Tampa and St. Petersburg, we’re sharing…
Power Up After School: Smart Snacks for Study Time or Game Time
After a long day of classes, teens need a serious refuel — but what they grab after school can make the difference between powering through practice or hitting a mid-afternoon slump. The goal? Smart snacks that deliver quick energy without the crash, help muscles recover and keep focus sharp for homework or the next big…
A Family Meant to Be: The Allen Family’s Journey to Teegan
Discover Teegan’s story of adoption via the Heart Gallery of Tampa, which advocates for foster children through photography and storytelling.
Make Your Miles Matter This Thanksgiving at the Tampa YMCA Turkey Gobble Road Race
Before gathering around the table this Thanksgiving, hundreds of runners, walkers and families will lace up their sneakers for a Tampa Bay holiday tradition, the Tampa YMCA Turkey Gobble Road Race.
Snoh’s Story at Johns Hopkins All Children’s: From One Pound to a Thriving NICU Graduate
Celebrating Snoh’s journey and happy graduation from the NICU after having spent nearly eight months there after being born premature.
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!
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.
Tampa Mom Launches Tampa Bay SNAP Gap Megalist to Help Local Families in Need
Tampa mom, Kas Miller, is hoping to help keep bellies full by bridging the gap with the launch of the Tampa Bay SNAP Gap Megalist.
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.
Academy at the Lakes: The Importance of Teaching Information Literacy and the Value of the Liberal Arts
In today’s media-saturated world, students are taught how to critically engage with the information that shapes their understanding of the world.
Awesome Places to Go Trick-or-Treating this Halloween in Tampa Bay
If you’re not up for trick-or-treating in your neighborhood…or even want to snag some treats before Halloween, there are some SPOOKtacular events happening throughout October, including some huge outdoor trick-or-treating events on Halloween weekend!
Corbett Prep: Building Confidence Through Public Speaking at Every Grade
Corbett Prep takes a unique and dramatic approach to help kids in grades Pre-K through eighth learn public speaking skills.
TPA All Access program is returning and we LOVE it!
TPA All Access is returning to Tampa International Airport beginning November 3, and we can’t wait! It’s a chance to go to the Airsides and experience all of the amazing local restaurants and shops while you dream up your next big trip, no plane ticket necessary!
Teacher to Know: Kimmy Sanford, History and Social Sciences at Tampa Prep
Q&A with Kimmy Sanford, a passionate and dedicated middle school teacher of history and the social sciences at Tampa Preparatory School.
Finding Hope at Embracing Life Wellness Center
Discover how Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy can help teens fight depression and anxiety at Embracing Life Wellness in Tampa.
From Cart to Kitchen: Feast Without the Fuss with Kroger Delivery
Kroger Delivery can help make your Thanksgiving dinner plans a little easier this year with fresh ingredients delivered to your door!
USF Basketball: Tampa Bay Home For Hoops
USF’s women’s and men’s basketball programs – “Tampa Bay’s Home for Hoops’’ – have some special treats ahead for area fans.
Metropolitan Ministries Sounding the Alarm: Donations Needed Desperately
Metropolitan Ministries says it is serving double the number of families it typically serves, and it could get worse, but there are ways your family can help support them and the families they serve.
Options, Options Everywhere: Expanded HCPS Magnet Schools & School Choice Opportunities
Hillsborough County Public Schools offer a growing list of innovative magnet and school choice options for the 2025-2026 school year.
Yes, you and the kids can go dig for dinosaurs…and we did it with PaleoAdventures!
Yes, you and the kids can go dig for dinosaurs…and you can do it alongside the paleontologist who discovered Big John, the world’s largest triceratops, the dinosaur on display at Glazer Children’s Museum!
Trick-or-Treat at Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s Halloween Spookquarium!
Clearwater Marine Aquarium will transform into a Halloween Spookquarium on Halloween night with trick-or-treating, underwater pumpkin carving, and more!
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, SeaWorld Orlando’s Christmas Celebration is a must-do. Each holiday season, I visit every single Orlando theme park, and SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration ranks towards the top…
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!
The BEST Halloween Events for Kids in Tampa Bay + MORE Fun!
We’re sharing the best Halloween events for kids in Tampa Bay, along with trick-or-treating events, costume ideas, spooky snacks, and MORE!
INSIDE LOOK: Harvest Days at Keel Farms in Plant City 2025
Join us for a look at this year’s Harvest Days at Keel Farms and explore all of the fun fall farm fun for the family!
INSIDE LOOK: Mote SEA is now open in Sarasota and it’s INCREDIBLE!
There’s a brand-new aquarium in Tampa Bay for you to explore with the kids, and it is absolutely incredible. We got a chance to get a peek at Mote SEA: Science Education Aquarium before opening day. So let’s dive into all the details so you can map out an epic day under the sea! When…
MOSI Launches First-Ever Space Week with its New Astrophysicist
MOSI, Tampa’s Museum of Science & Industry, is blasting off with its first-ever Space Week, featuring brand-new space-themed activities each day from October 4-10.
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!
20+ Adorable Fall Festivals in Tampa Bay for Kids
These adorable Tampa Bay fall festivals will make you want to inhale the pumpkin spice! Fun for the whole family…and the pictures!
8+ Not-to-Miss Corn Mazes in Tampa Bay and Beyond
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! We’re sharing our favorite corn mazes in Tampa to explore this fall with the kids!
INSIDE LOOK: Creatures of the Night at ZooTampa returns with NEW thrills in 2025!
ZooTampa’s Creatures of the Night family-friendly Halloween party is returning in 2025 for 13 nights with NEW treats and thrills!
Teacher to Know: Brainard Harris, Hillsborough County Public Schools
Brainard Harris is a mentor, innovator and leader who brings aerospace technology to life for students at Stewart Middle Magnet.
Moms to Know: Angeline Howell, Creating Change Through Play and Purpose
Local mom and changemaker, Angeline Howell, is inspiring hands-on learning, building community and shaping the future of education in Tampa Bay.
The Play List: Let’s explore FloridaRAMA in St. Pete
FloridaRAMA in St. Pete is the perfect day for kids of all ages to explore the most funky, interactive art installations you’ll see anywhere!
A Rose By any Other Name Would Smell as Sweet: Retelling Shakespeare for Teens.
For teens and families looking to approach Shakespeare from new perspectives, there’s plenty on offer at the library.
Kids to Know: Madison “MightyMouse” Richardson
Meet Madison Richardson, a tae kwon do champion raising awareness for causes that empower kids and fund life-changing cancer research.
USF Volleyball Coach, Jolene Shepardson, on a Full Court, Full House and Full Heart
University of South Florida’s head volleyball coach, Jolene Shepardson, balances coaching life and motherhood.
Tailgate Treats the Whole Family Will Cheer For
Score big with these winning game-day tailgate treats to keep everyone going from the opening kickoff until the final down!
What do Kids Want More than Phones? Independence!
Lenore Skenazy co-founder of Let Grow with “The Anxious Generation” author Jonathan Haidt, discuss what kids want more that phones.
Cinematically Spooky: Celebrating Halloween at the Historic Tampa Theatre
A Nightmare on Franklin Street returns to Tampa Theatre for goulishly good frights for all ages this Halloween season!
50+ Fall Events, Pumpkin Patches, Halloween Events, and MORE!
The 2025 list of pumpkin patches, haunted houses, and fall festivals in Tampa Bay is here and promises some ghoulishly good times.
Setting The Stage: Winter/Spring Arts Classes Now Enrolling At The Marcia P. Hoffman School Of The Arts
Discover all about the Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts Winter Classes, beginning January 10, 2026 at Ruth Eckerd Hall!
Encouraging Wonder: What Happens When Preschoolers Ask Why
It happens almost overnight. You blink, and your baby suddenly has become a walking, talking little person with an intense desire to know things. The word “why” probably falls from their mouths at least a few times a day. Like most parents, you provide them with an answer. Sure, it might be a really good…
An E-Scooter Emergency: Cooper’s Story
It was a call no parent wants to receive. When John’s phone rang, his son, 14-year-old Cooper, was out riding his e-scooter. “I heard moaning on the phone, then the call dropped,” John recalls. “I turned around immediately and headed to where he was supposed to be.” He found Cooper badly injured after a fall…
