Things to Do in Tampa Bay for Thanksgiving 2024: A Local's Guide

Thanksgiving in Tampa Bay is packed with family-friendly activities, unique events, and festive outings for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re in town to spend the holiday with loved ones or are a local looking to make the most of the long weekend, there are countless ways to celebrate. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do around Tampa Bay this Thanksgiving.

 

 

Kickstart your Thanksgiving Day with a healthy tradition by participating in a Turkey Trot. Several organizations host Thanksgiving runs across Tampa Bay, including the Tampa YMCA’s Turkey Gobble, where you can pre-burn holiday calories while enjoying community vibes. Turkey trots are suitable for all ages, so bring the whole family for a brisk morning run or walk.

Holiday Events to Ring in the Festive Season

1. YuleTides at the Florida Aquarium
   Starting November 29, the Florida Aquarium debuts its new YuleTides holiday experience. Families can explore coastal-themed decorations, a giant recycled Christmas tree, sand sculptures, and Santa meet-and-greets at Santa’s Wharf​.

2. Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
   Open from November 22 through January 5, Winter Village features outdoor ice skating, a holiday market, and themed ice skating shows. Grab a hot chocolate and browse local vendors while enjoying the twinkling lights along the Hillsborough River.

3. Christmas Town at Busch Gardens
   From November 15 to January 5, Christmas Town offers millions of lights, holiday shows, and contact-free visits with Rudolph and Santa. This family-friendly event has fireworks, an outdoor ice-skating show, and a holiday train.

Family Activities for All Ages

1. Thanksgiving Camps at MOSI
   If you need time to prep for Thanksgiving, MOSI (Museum of Science and Industry) offers a Thanksgiving Break camp that’s both educational and fun. Kids can engage in STEAM activities while parents tackle holiday errands​.

2. Gingerbread Village at Glazer Children’s Museum
   Children can craft their own gingerbread creations from recycled materials to contribute to the museum’s Gingerbread Village. This interactive exhibit is perfect for younger kids who love building and decorating.

3. Seminole Heights Craft Fair and Bake Sale
   For a cozy, local experience, check out this event on November 23 at Seminole Heights United Methodist Church—the fair features handmade crafts and baked goods, perfect for finding unique gifts and holiday treats.

Relaxation and Rejuvenation

1. Nature Walks and Hikes
   Explore Tampa Bay’s scenic nature preserves like Weedon Island Preserve and Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve. These trails offer a peaceful escape to observe local wildlife, hike, and enjoy boardwalk views​.

2. Yoga in the Park
   Join a free, all-level yoga class at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park on Sunday, December 1. This peaceful session is ideal for unwinding after a festive Thanksgiving weekend.

Volunteering and Giving Back

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to support the community—organizations like Metropolitan Ministries and Feeding Tampa Bay welcome volunteers and donations for needy families. Volunteers can bring kids (some opportunities allow ages as young as 8) and make this a meaningful family activity​​.

Shopping and Special Experiences

1. Thanksgiving Weekend Shopping at Local Markets
   Explore farmer’s markets like the Ybor City Saturday Market and the St. Pete Saturday Morning Market for fresh produce and handcrafted items to add local flavor to your Thanksgiving table.

2. Tampa Theatre’s Holiday Classics Movie Series
   Watch classic holiday films at the historic Tampa Theatre. The theater screens holiday favorites from Thanksgiving weekend through January in an enchanting setting.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking for high-energy activities, volunteer opportunities, or quiet ways to appreciate the holiday, Tampa Bay has something for everyone this Thanksgiving. From iconic holiday events to beautiful nature escapes, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of Thanksgiving in the Bay Area.

FAQs

What are the top family-friendly Thanksgiving activities in Tampa Bay?
The Turkey Trot races, YuleTides at the Florida Aquarium, Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park, and MOSI’s Thanksgiving Camps are popular family-friendly activities​​.

Can we see holiday lights over Thanksgiving weekend?
Yes, many holiday light displays debut over Thanksgiving weekend, including Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park and Christmas Town at Busch Gardens​.

Where can we volunteer as a family on Thanksgiving?
Metropolitan Ministries and Feeding Tampa Bay offer family-friendly volunteering options, allowing kids to join in helping the community​.

Are there Thanksgiving Day dinners available at local restaurants?
Yes, many restaurants around Tampa Bay offer special Thanksgiving meals for dine-in or takeout. Reservations are recommended as spots fill quickly​.