A Very Tampa Christmas: Santa Fest Parade 2025
Santa arrives in Downtown Tampa aboard a vintage Tampa Fire Department truck
There’s a certain charm to Tampa’s Santa Fest Parade—an easy, wholesome kind of magic that feels increasingly rare. In a world that can often feel chaotic, this family-friendly tradition brings people together through festive camaraderie, hometown pride, and the simple spirit of the season.
Unlike the boisterous, bead-grabbing mayhem of Gasparilla, this parade isn’t about revelry or rowdy spectacles. No one’s wrestling toddlers for beads or sloshing drinks along the Bayshore curb. Instead, the downtown streets are lined with excited families- many wearing holiday gear, neighbors waving to neighbors, and kids taking the spotlight in every sparkling moment.
The 70-unit parade lineup showcases the city’s young talent—dance troupes stepping with precision, elementary school performers showing off their well-practiced routines, plus local vehicle groups like Jeep and motorcycle clubs revving up the crowd. They are groups not typically invited to the big Gasparilla show in January, but still represent some of the best young entertainment the city has to offer. A few Krewe floats roll by, adding a touch of adult flair to the mix. And of course, the grand finale: a visit from the big man in red, waving from atop a vintage fire truck as the crowd erupts in cheers.
Simple. Sweet. Pure holiday joy—Tampa style.
