When palm trees glow and coasters race beneath a canopy of shimmering lights, the holiday spirit is alive and well in Tampa. Christmas Town at Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay is no ordinary celebration. It's an immersive experience that combines thrill rides with timeless traditions, festive flavors, and millions of twinkling lights.
Whether you're a Tampa local or planning a seasonal getaway, this magical transformation of Busch Gardens is a can't-miss holiday experience. In this guide, you'll find out why Christmas Town is such a beloved event, what to expect, and how to make the most of your visit.
Why Busch Gardens Christmas Town Is a Holiday Must-See
From November 14 through January 5 (on select nights), Busch Gardens Tampa becomes Tampa's biggest and brightest Christmas event — and for good reason. The park features nearly 70 miles of lights, transforming familiar paths, rides, and landmarks into glowing holiday spectacles.
Guests are greeted by Christmas trees, walk-through light tunnels, and immersive holiday zones filled with festive décor and seasonal cheer. From glowing pathways to interactive displays, the entire park transforms into a vibrant celebration of the season, offering discoveries around every corner.
Families and couples alike find something to love; there is nostalgia in the music, wonder in the lights, and genuine cheer in the interactions with characters and performers.
What To Expect From the Live Shows & Holiday Entertainment
Entertainment is one of the biggest draws at Christmas Town. Every night, the park hosts live performances designed to fill your evening with holiday spirit.
The headline show, Christmas on Ice, is a must-see. Featuring world-class figure skaters and set to beloved holiday music, this production brings elegance and energy to the stage. Seating fills quickly, so arrive early if this show is on your must-do list.
Other highlights include Holiday in the Sky: A Nighttime Spectacular, featuring fireworks and synchronized music that light up the sky above the park. You'll also find smaller stages and roaming performers throughout the park, offering festive music, dancing, and live holiday storytelling that keeps the energy high and the atmosphere joyful.
Interactive moments are everywhere — carolers sing along the pathways, and characters like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Clarice, Bumble, and of course, Santa Claus, are available for photos and meet-and-greets. These encounters offer a quieter, more personal way to connect with the season, especially for younger children.
For little ones, Sesame Street® Safari of Fun becomes even more lively during the holidays. Kids can sing along with Elmo's Christmas Wish, a cheerful stage show featuring Elmo and his friends celebrating the joy of giving.
Festive Attractions, Rides & Experiences
Even amid the holiday magic, the park's core attractions still shine. Whether you're conquering Iron Gwazi by day or gliding through the night on Cheetah Hunt, the thrill factor remains high.
But for the holidays, there are seasonal overlays and specialty areas that make Christmas Town even more interactive. One family favorite is the Holly Jolly Express, a scenic train ride through the park with holiday lights, music, and narration that's a relaxing, nostalgic journey perfect for all ages.
Don't miss the 40-foot pixelated tree at Cheetah Hunt Plaza, a glowing centerpiece covered in lighted panels and festive designs, perfect for that holiday photo op.
Wondering if the rides stay open? They absolutely do. Many of the rides at Busch Gardens Tampa operate during the event, so you can mix adrenaline with ambiance under festive lights. These zones are ideal for letting kids explore while parents snap festive photos.
Holiday Dining and Treats Worth Trying
There's no better way to fuel your festive fun than with something tasty in hand. Throughout the park, seasonal food and beverage kiosks offer holiday-inspired culinary delights ranging from sweet to savory.
Expect gingerbread funnel cakes, smoked brisket sandwiches, spiced holiday lattes, and warm apple pie cocktails for grown-ups. You'll also find hot chocolate stands, festive cookies, and limited-time items like peppermint bark and eggnog cupcakes.
Looking for heartier options? Many of the restaurants at Busch Gardens Tampa serve full meals and offer seasonal menu items during the event. It's a good idea to eat earlier in the evening to beat the rush and enjoy the shows without rushing.
Pair Christmas Town With Other Tampa Holiday Stops
Christmas Town pairs perfectly with a few more Tampa favorites, especially when you're using Tampa Bay CityPASS® tickets. Make a stop at ZooTampa at Lowry Park, where their Christmas in the Wild event brings lights and animal encounters together in a family-friendly holiday celebration.
Or visit The Florida Aquarium, where seasonal programming and décor add a festive twist to your undersea adventure.
Want more ideas? Browse our list of family-friendly activities in Tampa to fill your weekend with adventure, nature, and even more festive cheer. With CityPASS® tickets, it's easy to see more while spending less.
Plan Your Visit and Make the Most of Christmas Town
A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to getting the best out of your Christmas Town experience. Here's how to make the most of it:
- Go early in the day to enjoy thrill rides before evening crowds arrive for the shows and lights.
- Visit midweek if your schedule allows; weekends tend to be busier, especially closer to Christmas.
- Download the Busch Gardens app ahead of time for live showtimes, ride wait times, and an interactive map.
- Bring glow accessories or light-up necklaces for the kids to keep them easily visible in the dark and enhance the festive feel.
- Wear comfy shoes because you'll be walking a lot, especially if you're exploring every themed area and light display.
- Layer up — even though it's Florida, evening temperatures can drop. A light sweater or jacket will keep everyone cozy, especially on the Christmas Town Express train ride.
- Eat meals before peak dinner hours to avoid long lines at food stands.
And finally, don't try to do it all in one hour. The magic of Christmas Town is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace. From light shows to sweet treats to heartwarming encounters, there's something to savor in every corner of the park.
Ready to light up your holiday season in Tampa Bay? Christmas Town at Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay is the ultimate holiday destination — blending festive joy, world-class entertainment, thrilling rides, and glowing memories into one unforgettable celebration.
With Tampa Bay CityPASS® tickets, you'll enjoy prepaid admission to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay along with other main Tampa Bay attractions like ZooTampa and The Florida Aquarium. It's the easiest and most rewarding way to plan a holiday getaway your family will remember for seasons to come.