20+ FUN Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Weekend

The weekend is here and there are so many awesome things to do in Tampa Bay.

The holiday season is now in full swing and there are so many holiday events going on! We’ve rounded them up for you in The Best Christmas Events in Tampa Bay for Families.

Ready to meet the big guy himself? Check out Where to take pictures with Santa in Tampa Bay.

Our weekend guide is divided into multiple sections since there are SO many fun things to do around Tampa Bay! Scroll down for Featured Events, Events listed by Date, Save the Date, What’s on Exhibit, and more fun ideas. So, keep scrolling to find your best day ever!

MORE Tampa Bay family-friendly fun we think you’ll love:

*Be sure to check each event’s social media pages or website to ensure there aren’t any changes due to weather.

Related:  The Best Things to Do for Grown Ups in Tampa Bay!


Featured Events

Busch Gardens Christmas Town | Saturday, November 11 – January 7, 2024

Enjoy park-wide festive fun at this award-winning holiday event. The park is filled with holiday cheer and guests can enjoy holiday traditions with a twist. Ride the Holly Jolly Express train, view millions of twinkling lights from the top of a roller coaster, visit Santa in his workshop, and spend time with Rudolph and his friends from the classic holiday movie, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Guests can also enjoy festive live shows and take part in special holiday dining and shopping.

 

Tampa Parks & Rec Presents: The Case of the Missing Fables | November 14 – December 15, 11 am & 3 pm

Free Performances at Libraries and community Centers around Tampa Bay!
The world’s greatest detective is on a mission to find the Polka Dot Bandit and recover the morals he stole from the only copy of Aesop’s Fables! Follow the clues and discover the lesson each fable teaches before the morals are gone forever! Full of laughs, adventure, and lessons, children will experience favorite stories all while solving a hilarious mystery. Brought to you by the City of Tampa’s Creative Arts Theatre, encouraging literacy throughout Hillsborough County through the magic of live performances. Best for ages 4 and up. 


Colorful Christmas | November 18 – January 7, 2024

Crayola Experience, Orlando 
Deck the halls with tons of COLOR! Colorful Christmas is back. From November 18 – January 7, come enjoy holiday fun the Crayola way! Make handmade gifts from the heart, complete a seasonal scavenger hunt and more! It’s a holiday hullabaloo with SNOW much to do! Buy tickets ahead & SAVE $5 with Code: TBP, now through January 7, 2024.

 

Holiday Classics at Tampa Theatre | Select Dates, November 26 – January 7, 2024

Tampa Theatre, Downtown Tampa
When you visit the historic Tampa Theatre, you’re not just coming for a movie – you’re coming for an experience. One of the brightest and most beloved of those experiences is the tradition of sharing favorite holiday films on the big screen with family and friends and singing along to holiday carols with the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ before the show. This year’s showings include Miracle on 34th Street, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, The Grinch, a Frozen Sing-Along, and more!
Tickets are $10.00 ($7.00 for Members) & $14.50 ($11.50 for Members) for Sing-Along showings.

 

ZooTampa Christmas in the Wild in Tampa | Select Dates, November 24 – December 30, 2023

Tampa
Enjoy one of Tampa’s largest light displays as the zoo transforms into a seasonal wonderland. This year promises to be bigger, better, and brighter than ever. There’s a new Lantern Lullaby area in Asia where you can walk among gorgeous Asian paper lanterns to the tunes of your favorite holiday music, a new Gingerbread Jubilee, and new Holiday Signature Animal Encounters. There are also returning favorites like visits with Santa, Cookie Decorating with Mrs. Claus, the Forest of Fantasy light show, and MORE! Christmas in the Wild is a separately ticketed event.

 

Enchant Christmas at Tropicana Field | November 24 – December 31, 2023

Wander through the incredible dazzling display of lights, spin around on the ice-skating rink, and create some fun holiday crafts. Head over to Santa’s Landing to meet Santa himself. Nestled in a serene snowscape below a sky full of twinkling stars, it is an enchanting and memorable setting for a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience.

 

Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds | November 23 – December 31, 2023

Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village immerses everyone in holiday fun with family favorites and new attractions, making it bigger and better than ever! The fairgrounds are enveloped in 1 million lights with a 2-mile drive-thru of elaborate displays. The expanded Santa’s Village will feature an Arctic Plunge Inflatable Snow Tube, holiday-themed rides, a self-guided walking tour of Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village, visits with Santa, camel rides, holiday movies, tasty treats, and more!


Things to Do on Friday, December 8

 

Amazing Athletes at Armature Works | Friday, December 8 from 10 am- 11 am

Tampa
Amazing Athletes uses a multi-sport program to benefit children aged 18 months to 6 years old. The program introduces the fundamentals of 10 different sports (soccer, hockey, volleyball, basketball, tennis, lacrosse, football, track and field, baseball, and golf) in a non-competitive environment. Children in Amazing Athletes routinely gain greater confidence, learn to combine fitness with fun, and develop key motor skills.

 

Taylor Swift Birthday Skate at United Skates of America | Friday, December 8 from 6:30pm-9:30pm

Tampa
Come skate to celebrate Taylor Swift’s birthday! Featuring music and videos from the ERAS Tour! There will be a lip sync contest, friendship bracelet trading, and more!

 

Movie on the Turf at Epperson Lagoon | Saturday, December 8 from 7 pm- 9 pm

Wesley Chapel
Head to the turf to watch How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Bring your blankets and chairs.

 

Handel’s Messiah at Straz Center | Friday, December 8 at 8 pm

Tampa
With its divine “Hallelujah” chorus, Messiah is the ultimate celebration of holiday joy. A tradition for nearly 300 years. Michael Francis conducts, featuring The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay.

 

Movie Under the Stars – ELF at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel | Friday, December 8 at 8 pm

Wesley Chapel
Head to Avalon Park for a free showing of Elf! The movie will begin at 8 pm.

 

Fortnite Friday at Esports Players Club | Friday, December 8, from 6:30 – 8:30 pm

Tampa
Compete for Vbucks and enjoy pizza while playing in this under-18 Fortnite Tournament.

 

Glo in the Park at Altitude Trampoline Park | Friday, December 8, from 7 – 10 pm

Tampa
Get ready to GLOW and jump! Altitude safety socks are required (not included). A valid waiver is required. All guests must have a valid waiver on file and receive a wristband at the front desk, including non-jumpers. Non-jumpers are not charged.

 

Friday Night Meltdown Public Skate at AdventHealth Center Ice | Friday, December 8, from 7:45 – 9 pm

Wesley Chapel
Start your weekend off on the right skate and join us out on the ice for a 2-hour public skate session! There will be a live DJ, colored lights and so much more!

 

The Great Christmas Cookie Bake-Off | Friday, December 8, from 8 pm- 10 pm

Tampa
Taking place at Stageworks Theatre, students from Tampa’s Blake, Plant, and Robinson High Schools who play the 8 young cookie bakers who’ve been selected to battle it out for 1st place in the Cookie Coliseum. Each is eliminated by a panel of judges until just the winner remains. Along the way, the young bakers lean into the virtues of charity, family and forgiveness. Many of the students are making their professional acting debut.

 

Things to Do on Saturday, December 9

Ornament Making at Kids Park | Saturday, December 9

Multiple Locations
Create your own ornament at Kids Park’s Ornament Workshop! Check your local Kids Park for details.

 

Breakfast with Santa at Chick-Fil-A | Saturday, December 9 from 8 am- 10 am

Tampa
Head to Chick-Fil-A on West Hillsborough for breakfast with Santa! Kids can make a Christmas craft.

 

Run Tampa Tinsel Run at Al Lopez Park | Saturday, December 9 at 8 am

Tampa
Run with your gnomies in a 5K or 1-mile fun run!

 

Snow Days at The Florida Aquarium | Saturday, December 9 from 9:30 am- 5 pm

Tampa
Grab your gloves and join the Aquarium for winter festivities and hands-on snow experiences! Dash your way through a snow-flurried Snow Maze, toss a real snowball or launch one for a slingshot, channel your inner artist with some Snow Painting, and more! Snow Days is free for Aquarium members and included with general admission.

 

Christmas in the Country at Cracker Country | Saturday, December 9 from 10 am- 4 pm

Tampa
Bring the family for a great day experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of an old fashion country Christmas. Learn how the holiday traditions of the 19th century differ from those of the 21st through hands-on historical interpretations, carols, traditional decorations and more!

 

Photos with Santa at Humane Society of Tampa Bay | Saturday, December 9 from 10 am- 2 pm

Tampa
Join the shelter for some great holiday fun for the whole family, including the furry ones! Get your photo taken with Santa, and also enjoy a holiday gift fair, a festive bake sale, and a cookout-style lunch under HSTB’s Sheltering Oak.

 

Sea of Joy at Clearwater Marine Aquarium | Saturday, December 9 from 10 am- 6 pm

Clearwater
See Santa underwater and meet him in person for a memorable holiday photo opportunity, enjoy lights and decorations celebrating the season throughout the aquarium, and participate in fun holiday crafts and activities surrounded by marine life. Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland adorned with festive marine-themed decorations, twinkling lights, and holiday cheer around every corner! Additional celebrations will be on December 9, and 16.

 

Weekend Workshop at Bricks 4 Kidz | Saturday, December 9 from 10 am- 1 pm

Tampa
Weekend Workshops are a great way for your child to enjoy a fun and engaging indoor activity. Whether you have a LEGO enthusiast, want your child to meet friends, looking for fun a weekend activity, or if you are a parent that needs three hours on a Saturday to run errands, a Bricks 4 Kidz Weekend Workshop has a little something for everyone! This Saturday, you can participate in LEGO City Winter is Coming!

 

Holiday Crafts at IKEA | Saturday, December 9 from 12 pm- 3 pm

Tampa
Children of IKEA Family members, ages 12 and under will be able to make a beautiful holiday ornament to use or give to that special someone for Christmas. Activity/craft valid for children 12 years old or younger. Parent must be an IKEA Family member to register (which is free to join). All children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the duration of the time that they are participating in the activity. No groups please. Child must be present to participate/receive the craft/activity. All supplies needed to complete the crafts will be provided.

 

Ugly Sweater Brunch Cruise at Yacht StarShip | Saturday, December 9 from 12 pm- 2:30 pm

Tampa
‘Tis the season to wear your holly jolly ugliest holiday sweater aboard Yacht StarShip. This two-hour brunch cruises will feature $10 unlimited mimosas and a contest for the ugliest sweater on the top deck! Enjoy beautiful views as you cruise the waterways of Tampa Bay! The Executive Chef has prepared a delicious brunch menu for this holiday cruise.

 

Minecraft Mania at MOSI | Saturday, December 2, from 1 pm – 3 pm

Tampa
Put those Minecraft mining skills you’ve learned to the test in MOSI’s Minecraft Mania! You’ll get a chance to play on individual, small-team, and full-team challenges as you work on perfecting your mining strategies, enchanting your tools and armor, defending a city from an alien attack, or even learning some basic coding! Children registered for Minecraft Mania will also receive general admission to the museum for no additional cost. Parents may drop off their participants and return for pick-up at 3 p.m. or are welcome to purchase their own general admission and visit the museum during the program. General admission is valid for the entire day. For kids ages 7-12.

 

Holiday Workshop at Snapology | Saturday, December 9 from 1 pm-4 pm

Tampa
 In Santa’s Creators Club, students will participate in various creative-play activities designed to develop their creative, social, and engineering skills focused around a fun Christmas theme! Most importantly, they will have tons of fun talking about Santa and getting in the Christmas spirit.

 

On Bikes Winter Wonder Ride at Curtis Hixon Park | Saturday, December 9 from 2 pm- 10:30 pm

Tampa
Don’t miss the world’s LARGEST costume-themed bicycle party! Join a neon-nineties flashback as thousands of retro radiant costume-themed riders cruise down beautiful Bayshore. And that’s not all! After the ride winds down, they’ll be lighting up the night at the Post-Ride Celebration! Attendees will enjoy family-fun activities, a live DJ to warm up the crowd, food and drink from local vendors around the Tampa Bay area, and incredible headlining entertainment. 

 

Winter Wonder Wharf at Sparkman Wharf in Tampa | Saturday, December 9 from 6 pm- 9 pm

Tampa
Sparkman Wharf will be transformed into Winter Wonder Wharf! Visitors of all ages can enjoy the magic of the season with photo-ops at themed areas, which include a colorful tree forest where guests can find Santa and holiday-themed performances at the Sparkman Wharf stage.

 

Holiday Movie at KRATE at The Grove | Saturday, December 9 from 6 pm-8 pm

Wesley Chapel
Bring a chair and enjoy a screening of How the Grinch Stole Christmas at KRATE at The Grove!

 

Kids Night Out at Color Me Mine | Saturday, December 9 from 6 pm-8pm

Tampa
Kids from 6 years of age and up come in for a fun kids night! Cost is $40 plus tax per child and includes pizza and drinks, pottery project, games & a movie along with lots of fun!

 

The Great Christmas Cookie Bake-Off | Saturday, December 9, from 7:30 pm- 9:30 pm

Tampa
Taking place at Stageworks Theatre, students from Tampa’s Blake, Plant, and Robinson High Schools who play the 8 young cookie bakers who’ve been selected to battle it out for 1st place in the Cookie Coliseum. Each is eliminated by a panel of judges until just the winner remains. Along the way, the young bakers lean into the virtues of charity, family and forgiveness. Many of the students are making their professional acting debut.

 

Things to Do on Sunday, December 10

 

AMC Sensory Friendly Films | Sunday, December 10 all day

AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where they turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! The Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday (family-friendly) and Wednesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month. Please check your local theatre listings for specific showtimes, and don’t forget to share your family fun with #AMCSensoryFriendly.

 

Hot Chocolate 15K/5K | Sunday, December 10 from 7 am- 12 pm

Tampa
With 5K, 10K, and 15K distances and a post-run party that’ll make you go cocoa crazy, you and your friends will experience the ultimate chocolate celebration!

 

Jingle Bell Run by Arthritis Foundation | Sunday, December 10 from 9 am- 12 pm

Tampa
This fun, festive, family-friendly morning will include food and drinks (including beer for 21+ w/ proper ID), fun kids zone activities, visit from Santa, entertainment, silent auction with great holiday gifts, Arthritis Warrior Winter Wonderland, holiday costume contest, and more! Dogs, strollers, and wheelchairs are welcome. Prizes and awards for overall top finishers, top fundraising teams and costume contest winners. Costume contest categories are: Best Individual/Duo costume, Best Team costume, Best Dog Costume, and Best Sleigh (stroller, wheelchair, wagon, etc.). There is a 5k or 1 mile route and a kid’s dash. Complimentary parking is available at the George M. Steinbrenner Field main parking lot.

 

Sensory Friendly Play at Urban Air Tampa | Sunday, December 10, from 9 – 11 am

Tampa
This event is specifically designed for children with Autism and special needs to enjoy time at the park without loud music, flashing lights- and to have a lot of fun!

 

Sunday Breakfast Bowl at Pin Chasers | Sunday, December 10, from 9 – 11 am

Tampa
Bring the whole family to Pin Chasers for a special Sunday morning breakfast and bowling! Admission includes two hours of bowling, two eggs (your way), bacon, and toast. $11.99 per person.

 

Snow Days at The Florida Aquarium | Sunday, December 10 from 9:30 am- 5 pm

Tampa
Grab your gloves and join the Aquarium for winter festivities and hands-on snow experiences! Dash your way through a snow-flurried Snow Maze, toss a real snowball or launch one for a slingshot, channel your inner artist with some Snow Painting, and more! Snow Days is free for Aquarium members and included with general admission.

 

Paint with Santa at Color Me Mine | Sunday, December 10 from 10 am- 12pm

Tampa
Be festive with Santa. Paint, take pics and enjoy refreshments! Paint a cookies for Santa Plate and a ball ornament. Christmas Eve Event: Wear your favorite Christmas pajamas. Santa will be reading two special stories: T’was the night before Christmas and The First Christmas

 

Grinch Brunch at Epperson Lagoon | Sunday, December 10 from 11 am- 2 pm

Wesley Chapel
Whoville’s finest is visiting the Lagoon! Enjoy specialty brunch items and snap a photo with the Grinch! Brunch includes green eggs and ham, sausage with biscuits and gravy, fruit, muffins and a cup of orange juice.

 

Holiday Crafts at IKEA | Sunday, December 10 from 12 pm- 3 pm

Tampa
Children of IKEA Family members, ages 12 and under will be able to make a beautiful holiday ornament to use or give to that special someone for Christmas. Activity/craft valid for children 12 years old or younger. Parent must be an IKEA Family member to register (which is free to join). All children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian for the duration of the time that they are participating in the activity. No groups please. Child must be present to participate/receive the craft/activity. All supplies needed to complete the crafts will be provided.

 

Santa Brunch on Yacht StarShip | Sunday, December 10 from 12 pm- 2:30 pm

Tampa
Although his work is never done, even Santa needs a break to escape the snow. Catch him setting sail aboard Yacht StarShip in Tampa! Better than a trip to the North Pole, this holiday cruise features a special photo opportunity with Santa at boarding, a delicious brunch menu, along with great views from the top deck paired with your favorite holiday classics. This two-hour cruise is sure to be filled with enchanted surprises including a special visit from Santa during the cruise and enough holiday cheer for the whole family to enjoy!

 

Family Axe Throwing at Highland Axe | Sunday, December 10, from 1 – 5 pm

Tampa
Lanes are open to adults and kids ages 6 and up. Parents or guardians must accompany throwers under 18. All throwers must sign a waiver to participate.

 

Unity in our Community Event at Perry Harvey Park | Sunday, December 10 from 1 pm- 5 pm

Tampa
Enjoy this free family event with music, face painting, games, community resources, vendors, food trucks, and more. Up to 250 youth that attend will receive 10 community service hours for attending.

 

The Great Christmas Cookie Bake-Off | Sunday, December 10 at 3 pm

Tampa
Taking place at Stageworks Theatre, students from Tampa’s Blake, Plant, and Robinson High Schools who play the 8 young cookie bakers who’ve been selected to battle it out for 1st place in the Cookie Coliseum. Each is eliminated by a panel of judges until just the winner remains. Along the way, the young bakers lean into the virtues of charity, family and forgiveness. Many of the students are making their professional acting debut.

 

Tampa Theatre Holiday Classics | Sunday, December 10 from 3 pm- 5 pm

Tampa
Head to Tampa Theatre to enjoy a special screening of The Grinch as part of their Holiday Classics series.

 

Related: Awesome family-friendly things to do with kids in Orlando


Save the Date for these AWESOME Events in Tampa Bay!


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

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

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.

 

MORPH’D at The Florida Aquarium

Tampa
This all-new exhibit features 18 species with unique adaptations from around the globe including axolotyls! Check out the adorable axolotl, peculiar paddlefish, and charming chameleon. Located in the new Mosaic Exhibit Hall, the gallery will also feature hands-on interactives that will give you a sense of what it is like to be one of these amazing creatures, connecting you with nature in a whole new way. Included with general admission.

 

S.T.E.A.M. Team Superhero Training Academy at MOSI | Now – January 1, 2024

Tampa
The S.T.E.A.M. Team Superhero Training Academy encourages kids and their families to keep moving while demonstrating how much fun staying active can be. Put your skills to the test on the rock-wall climbing wall, surf through balance boarding, and more! This exhibit connects the physical exertion of play and exercise with lifelong learning objectives in the arts and sciences.

 

Snakes of the Essstuary at Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center | Now Open!

The ‘Snakes of the Essstuary’ exhibit invites visitors on a journey to explore the fascinating world of Tampa Bay’s native snakes, shedding light on their unique characteristics, ecological roles, and the challenges they face. Visitors will meet Jack, the mimicry master Scarlet king snake; Salazar Slytherin, the Florida banded water snake that’s often mistaken for its venomous cousin; Rex, the vibrantly hued red corn snake; Neytiri, the beautiful yellow rat snake. Included in general admission.

 

Sandbar Snorkel Tours at Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center

Discover the sandbars of Tampa Bay with the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center at St. Pete Pier. The water is calm and the sandbar is shallow so it’s great for first-time snorkelers. The critters are small, think hermit crabs, sponges, and sea stars. And there is an educator in the water with you so you learn all about the animals you encounter! Tampa Bay Watch is an environmental nonprofit that works to restore the bay and educate people about our natural water resources. Taking place on Saturdays. $34 for adults and $26 for kids.

 

Where Ideas Come From: Dali’s Drawings at The Dali

Head to The Dali in St. Pete to experience the new Where Ideas Come From: Dali’s Drawings. The new exhibit features 100 rarely-seen works from 1916-1974. There’s a drawing room for kids and adults to learn how to draw one of Dali’s most famous drawings and a 2D room for some fun photo ops. Make sure to head downstairs to the Stavros Education Room where kids can create their own unique pieces of art to leave there and hang up or take with them! On display now through October 22, 2023.

 

LEGO City Space at LEGOLAND Florida

Celebrate all things space at LEGOLAND and head to the Imagination Zone to fully immerse yourself on a LEGO Moonbase where you’ll be challenged to build a rover or a rocket. This is not only a great way to inspire kids to use their imaginations, but also cool off in the air-conditioning!

 

Fairgrounds St. Pete – Open Thursday-Sunday

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 what it’s like here!


MORE Ongoing Events in Tampa Bay

 

Zubrick Magic Theatre

Experience wonder in St. Pete’s only magic theatre! The Zubrick Magic Theatre is a spectacular venue that gives audiences an intimate and unforgettable evening of magical entertainment. Illusionists Chris & Ryan Zubrick conjure up an exhilarating blend of sleight-of-hand, family-friendly comedy, and breathtaking grand-scale illusions in a 70-minute performance that captures hearts and imaginations. Conveniently located in downtown St. Petersburg, FL., the Zubrick Magic Theatre guarantees to stretch smiles and drop jaws with a performance that will leave you walking away scratching your head in disbelief saying, “How did they do that?!” Get your tickets now before they all… DISAPPEAR! 

Read More: Get your tickets to Tampa Bay’s ONLY magic show before they all … disappear!

 

Paws for Literacy at Humane Society of Tampa Bay | Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:45 pm – 4 pm 

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.


Parents’ Nights Out!

 

While family time is fun, it’s also important to carve some time out for yourself, whether it’s a night out with your significant other, friends, or some solo time. Several places around the Tampa area are hosting Parents’ Nights Out! For a fee, you can drop your kids off for some fun activities and playtime while you get an evening out!

 

Playgrounds of Tampa | Second and Fourth Friday of Every Month from 6 pm – 10 pm

For four hours, your kids will be entertained with games, movies and bounce houses galore (maybe even with some pizza) while you do whatever you want. Participants must be potty trained, ages 4 and up. Cost is $30 per child. Click here to register.

 

Humane Society of Tampa Bay | Last Friday of Every Month from 6 pm – 10 pm

Kids ages 5 and up will enjoy playing with the shelter animals, dinner, and watching a movie with furry friends! This program takes place monthly and registration is required. The dogs and cats can’t wait to party! Cost is $50 per child. Includes pizza dinner and drinks. To register, click here.

Jubilee Gymnastics | Second and Fourth Friday of Every Month from 6 pm – 9:30 pm

Drop off the kids to eat, play, and have fun at Jubilee Gymnastics in Ruskin while you enjoy a night out. Pre-registration is highly encouraged as these will fill up quickly. For kids ages 4 and up. Cost is $30 per child for members/$35 for non-members. Includes pizza and drinks! Click here to sign up.

 

Cypress Forest Park | Last Friday of Every Month from 6 p.m. – 10:30 pm

Take a night off while your children enjoy themed fun at Cypress Forest Park in Oldsmar! Pizza dinner are included. For kids ages 5-12. Cost is $10 for kids with a rec card and $15 for kids without. Click here to learn more.

 


More ideas to spark a weekend of lifelong memories!

ZooTampa animal experiences

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 a 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 NEW 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! Learn more.



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 Resources 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 visit familysupporthc.org.

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. tbp1.wpengine.com/lets-play-tampa-bay/


Outdoorsy Things to Do in Tampa Bay

Head to the beach! 

The beaches are open, but you’ll see plenty of reminders about social distancing. You’ll also want to pack some extras in your beach bag like hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes. Cloth masks are also a good idea in case you decide to visit an establishment that requires them. 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! Many preserves and conservation parks are now open in Tampa Bay. Find a park near you or discover a new one:


Weekend Farmers Markets in Tampa Bay this Weekend

Saturday Morning Market at Williams Park in St. Pete | Saturdays from 9am -1 pm

Experience one of the top farmers markets in the U.S.! Expect an estimated 170 vendors selling their goods and artisans selling their crafts. Add stellar food choices for dining and live music for entertainment and it’s a perfect day in the Florida sunshine. Their Summer Market, located at Williams Park, typically runs from June to August.

Dunedin Downtown Market | Saturdays from 9 am-1 pm

The Dunedin Downtown Market at John Lawrence Pioneer Park features 40+ local merchants and vendors including fresh fruits and vegetables.

Fresh Market at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel | Select Saturdays from 10am-2pm

There are 60+ vendors expected at the Fresh Market at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel including organic and hydroponically grown produce.

Corey Avenue Market in St. Pete Beach | Sundays from 9am- 1pm

Corey Avenue Market features more than 70 local vendors and merchants selling everything from crafts, art, food and locally grown produce.

Ybor City Saturday Market in Tampa | Every Saturday from 9 am-1 pm

The Ybor City Saturday Market is the largest continually operating outdoor market in the Tampa Bay Area. Centered in Tampa’s Historic District, the market is one of the most popular shopping destinations for locally produced items unique to the Tampa Bay Area. Features locally made arts, crafts, and gourmet foods representing the area.

The Market Elaine at Wesley Chapel | First Friday of Every Month

Head to The Grove in Wesley Chapel for a unique evening market featuring tons of local businesses! Enjoy local vendors, live music, food, and more. themarketculture.com

Hyde Park Fresh Market in Tampa | First Sunday of Every Month from 10 am -3 pm 

Hyde Park Fresh Market features over 80 local vendors including produce, handcrafted goods, plants, and more. While you shop, enjoy live music by Gasparilla Music in Village Circle.

Carrollwood Market | Select Saturdays from 10 am-2 pm

Head to the Carrollwood Cultural Center to explore 60+ local vendors and businesses.

Westchase Locale Market | Every Second Saturday from 10am – 3pm

Enjoy live music and over 30 vendors in Westchase Town Center every second Saturday of the month.


 Celebrate the weekend in Orlando!

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