Happy Fall!! Mother Nature has certainly been rewarding us with some beautiful fall weather lately – perfect for attending some outdoor fall festivals!

Thanksgiving is also coming up in a few weeks and there are plenty of places already offering Thanksgiving meal specials. Be sure to keep checking our list of places to dine in and to-go as more are added. If you're sticking around town and looking for fun things for the kiddos to do during Thanksgiving break, we've got you covered with that too!

With Thanksgiving coming up, it's also a big time to give back to others, and there are so many in need right now, so we've rounded up our list of places to volunteer this holiday season as a family.

You'll need the rest because there are tons of fun things to do around Tampa Bay for kids of all ages! But, before we dive into our list of Weekend Top Picks– here's how we've set it up to make it easier for you to find an event on a day that works best for your family.

Our list is divided into categories to help you find what you need quickly: Featured Events that make this page possible, More Awesome Things to Do, What's on Exhibit, Save the Date, and more.

Happy weekend exploring!!

Featured Events

Giving the following events an extra shout-out since their support helps us provide this amazing weekend guide to you for free!

LAST CHANCE! Hillsborough County Fair

Dates: Thursday, October 30 – Sunday, November 9
Location: Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover

The 2025 Hillsborough County Fair is back Oct 30–Nov 9! Experience 11 days of family fun with thrilling rides, mouthwatering fair food, free daily shows, and youth competitions. Don’t miss Rodeo Weekend, Bulls, Barrels & Boogie with live music, the Truck & Tractor Pull, and Demolition Derby! New this year: Goat Yoga, Beer garden, Farm to Fair, and Riddle Me This? Visit hillsboroughcountyfair.com for tickets and specials!

Gingerbread Village at Glazer Children's Museum

Dates: Opens Tuesday, November 4
Location: Glazer Children's Museum in Tampa

Step into Gingerbread Village in GCM's MakeSpace exhibit, where creativity, collaboration, and winter wonders come to life. In Gingerbread Village, you can tinker away at creating imaginative gingerbread-inspired houses and structures to add to their growing village. Work together as a family to design and build miniature creations using recyclable materials like cardboard, pipe cleaners, bottle caps, and more everyday items.

Junior League of Tampa Holiday Gift Market

Dates: Thursday, November 6 – Sunday, November 9
Location: Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa

Bringing together merchants and shoppers for a unique shopping event, this year's Market will feature over 200 specialty merchants from the Tampa Bay region and beyond. Shoppers can find gifts for everyone on their list and enjoy holiday-themed events while giving back to the Tampa Bay community. Early-bird tickets start at $10 at HolidayGiftMarket.org or $12 at the door (CASHLESS ticket sales).

Mother of All Baby Showers at Glazer Children's Museum

Dates: Friday, November 7, from 6–9 p.m.
Location: Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa

We have your FREE ticket to The Mother of All Baby Showers – Tampa with code TBPM, while supplies last! Presented by BayCare Women’s Institute and powered by Florida Prepaid, this adults-only night out celebrates and educates new and expecting parents with expert sessions, top baby, mom, and family brands, giveaways, and more. Get Tickets here.

Minecraft Mania at MOSI

Dates: Saturday, November 8, from 1 pm to 3 pm
Location: MOSI in Tampa

You’ve mined for diamonds. You’ve traded emeralds. You’ve built portals to new realms. Now it’s time to put your skills to the test. Take on individual, small group, and full-team challenges. Build your computer skills while having fun and perfect your strategies. Learn basic coding and work together to defend your city from an alien invasion! Same-day admission to MOSI is included for each child registered in the program.

Stardew Valley Symphony of Seasons at The Straz Center

Date: Saturday, November 8, from 8 pm to 10 pm
Location: Straz Center in Tampa

Sway and swoon to the soundtrack of the agrarian life. A 35-piece orchestra will perform music from the popular role-playing game Stardew Valley. Video will feature gameplay footage as well as original content created for the concert. See the farm grow through the seasons, and enjoy visits to valley attractions such as Pelican Town, Skull Cavern, Ginger Island and Calico Desert.

Tampa Bay Bucs vs. New England Patriots

Date: Sunday, November 9 at 1 pm
Location: Raymond James Stadium in Tampa

Head to Raymond James to watch the Bucs take on the Patriots! Make sure your littles are signed up for the Jr. Bucs Club for home game events and specials!

MORE Awesome Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Weekend

Ananda Farms Fall Festival

Dates: Fridays-Sundays
Location: Ananda Farm in Terra Ceia

Pumpkin SZN has arrived at Ananda Farms as this sweet, agritourism farm reopens for the season! They have adorable pumpkin patches, covered tractor wagon rides, u-pick flowers, and so many fun attractions for kids to explore, including an epic tree house and bounce pillows. Read all about the family-friendly fun at Ananda Farms here!

Sarasota Medieval Fair

Dates: Through Sunday, November 30
Location: Myakka City

Step back in time and watch full-contact jousting, human combat chess matches and other fantastic shows on 14 stages! Enjoy rides and play games! Enjoy music and shop for the holidays in the artisan marketplace with over 140+ shops! Each festival weekend has a unique theme and a full line-up of unique acts!

Amazing Athletes at Armature Works

Date: Friday, November 7, from 9:30 am to 10:50 am
Location: Armature Works in Tampa

In partnership with Amazing Athletes, kids ages 18 months to 5 years old are invited to participate in Amazing Athletes, the premier developmental sports and physical fitness program. Kids are empowered through positive movement experiences with a focus on meeting their motor-development milestones! There are two classes offered, Amazing Tots (18 months to 3 years old: 9:30 am – 10:00 am) and Amazing Athletes (3 to 5 years old: 10:05 am – 10:50 am).

Fun & Furious Friday at Midtown Tampa

Date: Friday, November 7, from 6 pm to 10 pm
Location: Midtown in Tampa

Kick fun into high gear for a Friday full of games, treats, and exotic cars! Meet in the middle for larger-than-life yard games, live music, and treats from your favorite Midtown retailers. Then take a walk around the community to see Corsa Car Rally’s showcase of luxury and sports cars on display.

Kids Market at Junior League of Tampa Holiday Market

Saturday, November 8 and Sunday, November 9
Location: Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa

The annual Junior League Holiday Market is proud to announce the new addition of the Kids Market! Be sure to stop by the Kids Market section to check out all the amazing kid entrepreneurs!

Repticon Tampa Reptile Show at Florida State Fairgrounds

Dates: Saturday, November 8, and Sunday, November 9
Location: Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa

This family-oriented, fun-filled event offers guests the opportunity to learn about animals not normally seen in local pet stores. Throughout the event, there will be seminars on animal-related topics by experts in the field of herpetology. Guests can also shop for a new family pet among the hundreds of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, spiders, and small exotic animals.

Bricks 4 Kidz Weekend Workshop

Date: Saturday, November 8, from 10 am to 1 pm
Where: Bricks 4 Kidz in South Tampa

Unleash your creativity at Bricks 4 Kidz Weekend Workshop! Use STEM techniques to create the perfect themed build. Each child will make and take home a custom LEGO minifigure at the end of each workshop. This week, the theme is LEGO Fortnite!

Cyber Bowling Kid's Matinee at Pin Chasers

Dates: Saturday, November 8 and Sunday, November 9 from 12 pm-4 pm
Locations: Various Pin Chasers Locations

Cyber Bowling is the fusion of high-energy entertainment and bowling, where anything is possible! Your favorite music and club lighting create a glowing, family-friendly club-like atmosphere while you bowl. At Veteran's, Midtown, Brandon, and East Pasco locations.

Esports Open Play at Emanuel P. Johnson Rec Center

Date: Saturday, November 8, from 1 pm-4:30 pm
Emanuel Johnson Rec Center in Tampa

The Esports lounges are staffed with Esports specialists who inspire and encourage new social skills, help develop gaming fundamentals, and set a safe, inclusive, and positive social environment. Our coaches are Esports competitors who have the skills and experience to help any player develop and grow their skills to perform better in competitions. In addition to developing Esports skills, participants socialize with like-minded competitors and make new friends in a high-energy environment.

Symphony in Lights Kickoff at The Shops at Wiregrass

Date: Saturday, November 8, from 5 pm-10 pm
Location: The Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel

Get ready to sparkle and be amazed at The Shops at Wiregrass this holiday season! Head over for Symphony in Lights Kickoff and Santa's Arrival by Pasco County Fire Rescue. Experience magnificent 50′ trees dazzling with lights choreographed to seasonal harmonies and snowfalls. New this year for the kickoff is a themed drone show presented by Sky Elements, finalists in America's Got Talent 2024! Listen to the big band sounds of Late Night Brass starting at 5 pm on the green or view from a jumbo LED screen on Piazza. There's also plenty to see at the Holiday Market along Paseo for seasonal hand-crafted items to gift or as a special treat for yourself, or slide down a 50-foot-long double Alpine Tubing Slide. Symphony in Lights will run through December 31, 2025.

Sunday Breakfast Bowl at Pin Chasers

Date: Sunday, November 9, from 9 am to 11 am
Locations: Multiple locations

Breakfast bowling includes two hours of bowling, two eggs (your way), bacon, and toast. Taking place at the Veteran's, Midtown, Brandon, and East Pasco locations.

Dueling Pianos for Kids at Treble Makers Dueling Piano Bar and Restaurant

Date: Sunday, November 9, from 4 pm to 7 pm
Location: Treble Makers in Wesley Chapel

Fun for the Whole Family! Entertainment is focused on music for the kids, from favorite pop songs, movies, and shows as requested by the audience!

MORE THINGS TO DO: See What’s on Exhibit in Tampa Bay

MOSI artificial intelligence exhibit. Photo by Kelly Nierstedt — New AI exhibit coming to MOSI in Tampa. Photo by Kelly Nierstedt.

Artificial Intelligence: Your Mind & The Machine exhibit at MOSI | Now Open

Location: MOSI in Tampa

Can a machine think like you? Learn like you? Paint your portrait like Picasso? Starting September 6, visitors at MOSI, Tampa’s Museum of Science & Industry, can find out in a brand-new way with the opening of Artificial Intelligence: Your Mind & The Machine, a hands-on exhibit that makes the world of AI exciting, accessible, and unforgettable.

Science LIVE! All-New Science Demos | Daily at 2 p.m.

Location: MOSI, Raymond James Amphitheatre

Watch a MOSI educator bring science to life with exciting, hands-on demos. Each show lasts about 15 minutes and features fun experiments in chemistry, physics, biology, and more. You’ll see colorful reactions, cool demos, and amazing science in action. MOSI makes science easy to understand, and even easier to get excited about!

Wild Oasis at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay | Now Open

Location: Busch Gardens-Tampa

The Wild Oasis Realm is finally open at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay! There's a new ride, a splash pad, and so many ways to climb and play!

SEA LIFE Florida at LEGOLAND Florida Resort | Now Open

Location: LEGOLAND Florida-Winter Haven

Get ready for this under-the-sea adventure at this all-new indoor attraction! You can expect to see more than 3,000 sea creatures and even walk through a 180-degree underwater tunnel! We'll be there for the official opening on Friday morning!

Forts Exhibit at Glazer Children's Museum | Now Open

Location: Downtown Tampa

The beloved FORTS exhibit returns to Glazer Children's Museum this weekend in its newly expanded and permanent home on the second floor, just in time for spring break! You'll find it on the second floor where kids can use their imaginations to build an epic fort!

Let's See at Glazer Children's Museum | Now Open

Location: Glazer Children's Museum-Tampa

This colorful, bilingual (English and Spanish) exhibit, created in partnership with the Glazer Vision Foundation, invites families to explore the science of vision through hands-on, mind-bending experiences. Discover how your eyes work with playful interactives that bring light, color, and perspective to life. Mix colors on spinning wheels, walk into a giant kaleidoscope, and cast dazzling colored shadows. Peer through a water sphere to see the world flipped upside down – just like your eyes do before your brain flips it back! Try on glasses, test for color blindness, and watch your pupils dilate as you explore how we see the world.

Wonders of Wetlands at Great Explorations Children's Museum | Now Open

Location: St. Pete

This new permanent exhibit, created in partnership with Tampa Bay Water, was designed to engage young minds and spark environmental curiosity. The immersive experience brings one of Florida’s most vital ecosystems to life inside the museum, and kids can even go face to face with some of the creatures that call our wetlands homes, like turtles, lizards, and a snake!

LEGO® Ferrari Race & Build Experience at LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Location: Winter Haven

Prepare to become the ultimate race car driver at this interactive experience for the whole family. The moment guests enter the attraction, they are greeted by a life-size LEGO® Ferrari 296 GTS model followed by interactive zones for guests to hop into the driver’s seat by building, tweaking, and racing their own car creations.

Get a FIRST LOOK at the LEGO Ferrari exhibit here!

Australia at ZooTampa

Tampa
ZooTampa’s latest expansion is now open! This new area features the new family-friendly safari ride, Aussie Trek. Other enhancements include the reimagined Billabong Splash Pad, a new play area, and an expanded wallaby viewing area. Guests can also partake in the new Wallaby Signature Encounter, along with the returning Koala Signature Encounter. The Lil Joey Family Stop also provides parents and nursing moms a private place to tend to smaller children. There are also two new food and beverage locations, and a special event beginning at 3 pm daily called Sunset Sips, where families can enjoy a DJ dance party along with BOGO food and drinks at the Boomerang Bar!

See the World’s Largest Triceratops at Glazer Children’s Museum

Tampa
Big John, the world’s largest fossil triceratops is now on display at Glazer Children’s Museum for a three-year exhibition. For the first time, the museum is waiving its requirement that adults attend the museum with a child, to ensure everyone has a chance to see Big John nose to snout for themselves. While you do not need a reservation to go to the museum, you will need to book a timeslot to see Big John. This will eliminate crowds so you can make the most out of the experience. Learn more about how to plan your day to see Big John the Triceratops here.

FloridaRAMA – Open Thursday-Sunday

St. Pete
FloridaRAMA (formerly Fairgrounds St. Pete) is an immersive art experience has made its mark in Tampa Bay! There are more than 70 artists featured. You can go and simply enjoy the whimsical art that celebrates weird, wacky, wonderful Florida or choose a different adventure and try to crack the codes and mysteries you’ll find throughout. Its newest exhibit Shrimpfinity embodies all of that–and it just might be your new favorite spot to snap the coolest photos with the kids! While you’re there, let the kids explore this unique immersive art exhibit that puts all of your senses to work. It’s truly something you’ve never seen or experienced before! Learn more about FloridaRAMA (formerly Fairgrounds St. Pete).

Paws for Literacy at Humane Society of Tampa Bay | Tuesdays and Thursdays

Tampa
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay gives children who love animals a chance to spend time with them while catching up on their reading or improving their reading skills. Children are paired with homeless pets who love to hear the stories and look at the pictures. The program is offered for children ages 5 and up. They’ll provide reading stools, books, and treats (for the animals), but children are welcome to bring their own books if they wish. Books provided include animal tales, stories of the animal-human bond, and books that teach empathy to young readers. Supervised by a Florida state certiﬁed teacher.

Ruskin Family Drive-In | Wednesdays-Sundays

The Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre has over 50 years of continuous service to the Ruskin and South Hillsborough County. It’s been a community gathering place since its first movie, “Singing in the Rain” played in 1952. They offer great movies, good food, and peace and quiet on a continuous basis with a 2000 square foot screen, clean restrooms, snack bar, and clean parking lot. Please note: you must bring a portable radio with you or use the radio in your car to hear the movie. There will be no showings on Monday and Tuesday.

SAVE THE DATE FOR THESE AWESOME EVENTS IN TAMPA BAY:

YMCA of St. Petersburg Family Glow Party | Friday, November 14, from 6-7 p.m.

Bardmoor YMCA, Jim & Heather Gills YMCA, Speer YMCA
Join the St. Pete Y for a night of music, movement, and glowing fun for the whole family! Dance under the blacklights, play glow-in-the-dark games, Meet other families, make new friends, and create bright memories that will light up your night!

ICE! Featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ | November 14 through January 7, 2026

Gaylord Palms Resort
For the very first time, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ will be featured at Gaylord Palms Resort in 2 million pounds of intricately carved ice sculptures in ICE!, the resort's signature holiday attraction. Strike a pose with Santa and Rudolph in one of the longest ice carvings measuring over 32 feet long, crawl into whimsical photo setups, or become one of the misfit toys in this winter wonderland made for memory-making. Experience the splendor of the holiday season at Gaylord Palms.

Pinocchio | Saturdays & Sundays, November 15-16 and 22-23rd, at 3 p.m.

St. Pete Opera
Fast-moving, colorful, and comical, this one-hour opera adapted from Carlo Collodi’s timeless tale includes captivating scenes and songs that highlight the opera’s heartwarming message of the importance of family, friendship, and always telling the truth. Featuring easy-to-understand English lyrics with music by Mozart, Donizetti, Offenbach, and Verdi – Pinocchio is the perfect introduction to opera for the young and the young at heart!

Foster Parenting Info Session from the Children's Network | Monday, November 17, at 7 p.m.

Virtual Event
Children's Network of Hillsborough hosts monthly fostering information sessions in a convenient virtual format. Join the November session to discover how you can become a foster parent to a child, teen, or sibling group who has experienced abuse and neglect. Come learn more about fostering, get answers to all your questions, and discuss the fostering journey. You can make a difference for a lifetime in a relatively short time as a foster parent!

Movies on the Pier | Friday, November 21, 8 p.m.

Family Park, St. Pete Pier
Start a new St. Pete tradition! Join in every third Friday on the Pier for an outdoor movie. VIP upgrades are available for premium reserved seating, two drink tickets, and one popcorn. This month’s feature is A Minecraft Movie.

Night at the Aquarium | November 24, from 6-8 p.m.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Get ready for an unforgettable evening where the aquarium transforms into an after-hours adventure! This special event invites kids ages 5-10 to experience a magical night filled with captivating stories, Hands-On Activities, and tons of aquarium exploration. Hear amazing tales about the ocean’s most incredible creatures, dive into interactive fun with ocean-themed crafts and games and discover the secrets of CMA like never before!

A Christmas Story, The Musical | November 28-30, various showtimes

Straz Center
Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Give your loved ones the magic of live theater with A Christmas Story, The Musical! Watch as young Ralphie's Christmas dreams unfold in this delightful adaptation of the classic film. A Christmas present that audiences of all ages will be sure to embrace and cherish for generations to come.

Sensory Saturday | December 6, from 8-10 a.m.

MOSI
MOSI transforms into a sensory-friendly space. Dive into hands-on activities in the Idea Zone®, explore our unique exhibits, and enjoy the museum’s relaxed atmosphere with lowered lights and reduced noise levels. These thoughtful adjustments create a stress-free experience, encouraging creativity and discovery. Registration is required, with pre-registration discounts; free for MOSI Members. Guests are welcome to stay past the event time and continue to enjoy the exhibits.

Sesame Street Live | December 7, at 2 p.m.

Duke Energy Center for the Arts – Mahaffey Theater
Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and their friends from Sesame Street are coming to St. Petersburg to say hello! At ‘Elmo and Friends Say Hello,' sing, dance, and play alongside your favorite furry friends; all while you follow Elmo’s puppy in a fun game of hide & seek. So make your way to the Duke Energy Center for the Arts – Mahaffey Theater, where the air is sweet for this all-new celebration on Sesame Street! Tickets are available now at Ticketmaster.com

Merry Maker’s Market | December 13, from 10am-2pm

MOSI
A festive shopping experience including with museum admission, shop the Merry Maker’s Market for a diverse selection of vendors showcasing their finest work, from handmade jewelry and artwork to specialty home décor and more. Support local artisans and small businesses while selecting meaningful gifts that carry a personal touch.

Santa’s Scientific Workshop | December 13, from 6-9pm

MOSI
Explore festive science experiments that bring holiday magic to life and take part in a dazzling planetarium show to journey through the stars. You can also meet Santa Claus and capture a special photo to remember the evening, plus, write letters to Santa and send your wishes straight to the North Pole with MOSI’s Magical Mailbox! Even better, enjoy delicious, sweet holiday treats along the way.

Holiday Sparkle | December 19-21, showtimes at 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Palladium, 253 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg
Get ready to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with a festive evening of music and merriment! Holiday Sparkle brings together dazzling vocalists, spirited dancers, and 40-piece orchestra for a heartwarming celebration of the season. From beloved carols and timeless classics to show-stopping dance performances that light up the stage, you’ll be swept away by the spirit of the season. An unforgettable evening that captures the sparkle and warmth of the holiday season.

Breakfast With Santa | December 20, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Enjoy a memorable morning filled with holiday spirit, delicious food, festive crafts, and a chance to meet Santa himself on December 20th! Whether you’re crafting ornaments, sipping hot cocoa, or taking photos with Santa, there’s holiday cheer for everyone. Make lasting memories in this enchanting holiday setting at Clearwater Marine Aquarium!

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents The Greatest Show On Earth® | January 2-4th, 2026, various showtimes

Benchmark International Arena
Step inside The Greatest Party On Earth! The 150+ year-old beloved circus is back and reimagined for a new generation. This larger-than-life production bursts back into Tampa for the launch of the National U.S. tour. Get tickets now for the Circus Party of the Year, featuring two hours of high-energy, family fun with over 65 world-class performers and beats that get you out of your seat!

More Ideas to Spark a Weekend of Lifelong Memories!

Upgrade your day at ZooTampa with an animal encounter!

If you’re planning a day at ZooTampa, we love upgrading our experience with the kids with animal encounters like feeding the giraffes or rhinos. We recently booked a time to feed Jamie the Indian White Rhino with our 5-year-old and he had a great time. Baby Rhino Gronk even hung out for snacks! You do have to wear a face mask during the encounter, but you can remove it for a photo. Learn more here.

Snap a mural selfie and help provide a free eye exam and glasses for a local child!

Head over to Armature Works to check out the mural on the north end of the property created to promote the Glazer Vision Foundation’s “Glasses For All Children” campaign. All you have to do is share a photo of the mural, a selfie in front of the mural, or selfie wearing any type of glasses, tag @glazervisionfdn, hashtag #OneShareOnePair and the foundation will give a local child a free eye exam, and pair of glasses! Easy peasy!

Check out the St. Pete Pier

Eat, drink, shop, and play at the new St. Pete Pier. The new playground area is quickly becoming a family favorite in Tampa Bay, just make sure to bring plenty of hand sanitizer and/or hand sanitizing wipes with you. Stay late and look up to see the Bending Arc light up in a spectacular display. You will need to wear a mask inside the stores, restaurants, and Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center. The Glazer Vision Foundation just announced it is contributing $1.5 million to the Glazer Family Playground at the Pier to support the space for years to come! Learn more.

FREE Resouces to Explore!

Children’s Board Family Resource Centers

The program provides parents and caregivers and their children an opportunity to participate in parent/child developmental playgroups, developmental screenings, and health and safety education classes at no cost. In addition, pediatric well-child visits, immunizations, and hearing or vision screenings are provided for qualifying families. To sign up for programs and services, and to find your neighborhood Children’s Board Family Resource Center here.

Learn & Play Tampa Bay Playgroups

The program provides quality early learning experiences at no cost at the seven children’s Board Family Resource Centers and other designated Hillsborough County sites. The program also delivers weekly in-person and online virtual developmental classes and provides take-home activities that promote early learning and school readiness at no cost. Learn more via the Glazer Children's Museum Facebook page.

Outdoorsy Things to Do in Tampa Bay

Head to the beach!

We’re sharing some of our favorite family-friendly beaches in Tampa Bay here.

Go for a hike!

Lace up the hiking shoes and spend the day in nature with the kids! Find a park near you or discover a new one:

Celebrate the Weekend in Orlando!

Want MORE ideas for fun adventures in Orlando or Walt Disney World? We’ve got more here! You can also follow our media partners at Orlando-Parenting.com and OrlandoDateNightGuide.com

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