The holiday season is upon us, and if you are looking for fun things to do in the Tampa Bay Area, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Plumlee Gulf Beach Realty, we’ve rounded up our favorite holiday happenings and Florida Christmas events that make the season truly spectacular. Attend festive boat parades, stroll through the holiday light displays, shop for one-of-a-kind gifts, watch dazzling fireworks, and much more. Plan your next holiday vacation at the beach and spend quality time with your loved ones in Plumlee’s Indian Rocks Beach vacation rentals!
2025 Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Events on the Florida Gulf Coast
Busch Gardens Christmas Town
November 14-January 5 | 10:00 AM–10:00 PM | Busch Gardens in Tampa
Experience fun for the whole family at Tampa Bay’s longest-running holiday celebration, featuring 70 miles of dazzling lights, festive shows, culinary delights, and fun holiday characters. Purchase discounted tickets at the Beach Welcome Center in IRB!
Holiday Lights in Largo Central Park
November 27-January 4 | 5:00 PM–10:00 PM | Largo Central Park
Visit Largo Central Park this holiday season and stroll along the paths with your family to see millions of festive lights and displays throughout the park.
Holiday Lights in the Gardens
November 28-January 3 | 5:30 PM–9:30 PM | Florida Botanical Gardens
Find even more festive light displays at the Florida Botanical Gardens, featuring more than a million twinkling lights throughout the gardens. They also offer live entertainment and shopping throughout the event.
Indian Rocks Beach Tree Lighting
December 5 | 7:00 PM–11:00 PM | 12th Avenue Park, Indian Rocks Beach
Watch the annual tree lighting at 12th Avenue Park while enjoying hot chocolate and holiday music.
Holiday Artisan Market
December 6 | 9:00 AM–4:00 PM | Beach Art Center, Indian Rocks Beach
Shop local and find a unique holiday gift at the Beach Art Center, featuring artwork, handmade crafts, books, and ornaments.
Indian Rocks Beach Christmas Street Parade
December 7 | 1:00 PM–4:00 PM | East Gulf Blvd ending at Kolb Park
Set up lawn chairs along Gulf Blvd and watch floats drive by during the city-wide Christmas parade.
Redington Beach and Indian Shores Christmas Boat Parade
December 19 | 6:00 PM–9:30 PM | Starts at ROC Park & ends at Caddy’s in Indian Shores
Christmas boat parades are a tradition here on the Florida Gulf Coast. Find a spot along the parade route and watch lit-up boats cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Indian Rocks Beach Christmas Boat Parade
December 20 | 5:00 PM–10:00 PM | Intracoastal Waterway
Get in the holiday spirit and watch the Christmas boat parade in Indian Rocks Beach.
New Year’s Eve at St. Pete Pier
December 31 | 8:00 PM–12:30 AM | St. Pete Pier
Celebrate the new year in St. Petersburg with a night of fireworks, live DJ music, food vendors, games, and a full bar.
Light It Up, Clearwater
December 31 | 8:00 PM–12:30 AM | Clearwater Beach
Ring in the new year in Clearwater Beach with a dazzling fireworks display over the water. Find a spot to watch the fireworks along the beach or near Coachman Park.
Celebrate the Holidays in Indian Rocks Beach, Florida
Plumlee Gulf Beach Realty has everything you need to celebrate the holiday season, including spacious accommodations, outstanding customer service, and exclusive perks. Plus, with holiday and Christmas events happening throughout the Florida Gulf Coast, you are just a short walk or drive away from the festivities. Book your Indian Rocks Beach vacation rental today and spend your holidays surrounded by sun, sea, and seasonal joy!
Need assistance finding the best accommodations for your holiday getaway? Contact our local reservationists at 866-921-1166.
