We’ll admit it — there’s something to be said for a White Christmas. A little snow at the holidays can be nostalgic and charming. Still, there are those of us who vastly prefer a nice, powdery ground cover of white sand during the yuletide instead. So if you’re looking to say “so long” to Jack Frost this season, here are some great ways to have a happy holidays in St. Petersburg this year.
Enchant (Now Through Jan. 1st)
The world’s largest holiday lights display isn’t at the North Pole — it’s right here in the Sunshine State! Tropicana Field is the site of Enchant, presented by the holiday experts at Hallmark Channel. This extraordinary family event is happening all season long, and must be experienced to be believed. A seven-story tree, live entertainment, seasonal marketplace, ice-skating trail, and even regular drop-ins from Santa himself await you here, all bathed in seasonal sparkle from more than 4 million twinkling lights.
1 Tropicana Dr., St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Putt the Pier (Dec. 16–18)
Calling all mini-golf fans: the first-ever Putt the Pier is coming to St. Pete Pier this holiday season! You and your family are invited to enjoy playing a full 18 holes of mini golf overlooking Tampa Bay, all while festive holiday-themed holes challenge your skills, and classic standards serve as the soundtrack to your fun on the fairways. Reservations are required, so if you’d like to set up a tee time, you can find tickets and times right here.
800 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Movies in the Park (Dec. 16th)
Florida’s sunny year-round weather means it’s possible to enjoy the outdoors the whole holiday season. And what better way to do so than by checking out a classic seasonal film while taking in the fresh Florida air? Horan Park here in St. Pete Beach will be hosting just such a screening of the timeless Will Ferrell favorite “Elf” at 7 pm on December 16th. So bring the whole family (along with a cooler, chairs and blankets), enjoy tasty treats from the Fo'Cheezy Twisted Melts food truck and take in this festive flick!
7701 Boca Ciega Dr. St Pete Beach, FL 33706
SantaCON Bar Crawl (Dec. 17)
Sometimes, the best way to get into a yuletide state of mind is to sip some holiday spirits. That’s the idea behind the St. Pete SantaCON Pub Crawl, which returns to the city in 2022. Participants are encouraged to break out their Santa getups, ugly sweaters, or any other timely glad rags, and join in the fun. Some of St Petersburg’s best bars and restaurants will be offering attendees crawl-only specials, so this is one seasonal sojourn you won’t want to miss. Bust out your most festive finery or knastiest knitwear, and join the crawl!
350 1st Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
“A Christmas Carol” at St. Petersburg City Theatre (Through Dec. 18)
Is there a more timeless tale of heartfelt holiday redemption than that of Ebenezer Scrooge? Charles Dickens’ perennial favorite will be brought to life on the St. Petersburg City Theatre stage through Dec. 18th this year. Join Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and the trio of holiday spirits seeking to show Mr. Scrooge the error of his selfish “bah humbug” ways.
4025 31st Street S, St. Petersburg FL 33712
Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s “Ghosts of Christmas Eve” (Dec. 18)
Holiday hitmakers Trans-Siberian Orchestra are always in high demand for yuletide events, and this year is no exception. Looking to catch a performance while you’re in the area? You’ll have two chances to hear their progressive style applied to timeless holiday arrangements. TSO will be performing their 2022 program “Ghosts of Christmas Eve” over two performances at Amalie Arena — a matinee at 2pm, and an evening show at 8pm. No matter which you attend, you’re in for major magic. Tickets are available here!
401 Channelside Drive Tampa, FL 33602
Ring in the New Year in St. Pete (Dec. 31)
New Year’s Eve happens first and best in Florida. If you’re looking for an “Auld Lang Syne” good time complete with bubbly and revelry, you certainly have your options open. Whether a swinging Gatsby-style shindig interests you, a poolside dance party is more your speed, or you want to set sail on a moonlight ocean cruise, you’re covered in grand fashion here. There’s no way to go wrong! So pick your party, and greet 2023 your way.
