Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Tampa, FL

Who says we can't have a "real" holiday season here in Florida? We don't need snow to get in the spirit in these parts. There are some wonderful holiday traditions for families here in our area. You may already be familiar with some of these traditions. Or perhaps your family will start a new tradition this year while attending one of the following events.

Your family can enjoy an old-fashioned hayride through Greeting Card Lane, a miniature holiday village and outdoor lighting displays every weekend in December. This event runs Dec 5-6, 13-13 and 19-20 from 6pm - 9pm and is free!

To kick off Hanukkah on December 21st, a grand ice menorah will be lit while skaters can enjoy an evening with family on ice.

Tampa Bay Lightening Run

Families and serious runners alike will find themselves in the holiday spirit while participating in this annual event starting at the St. Pete Times Forum.

The Nutcracker

This is a "must see" holiday tradition for every family.  Princesses, growing Christmas trees, and amazing costumes will wow every child.

Ybor City knows how to kick off the holiday season right. On December 6th, a Santa Fest parade, a snow slide, and other exciting holiday activities will bring cheer to your entire family.

A giant menorah lighting will be held again this year in Plant Park. Admission is free; dreidels, latke and chocolate gelt will be available for everyone.

Santa Preflight Parade

The Westchase community has created a wonderful tradition with a Pre-Flight Parade for Santa. Santa will parade through the area on a fire truck, candy and beads will be given out, and unwrapped presents will be collected for charity. Santa will also light a Christmas tree at the end of the parade route. This year's parade will take place on December 9th from noon to 6pm.

This wonderful Tampa tradition held on the Hillsborough River displays boats of all kinds decked out in holiday lights.

Congregational Latke Dinner: Night of 1000 dreidels

The Temple Oheb Shalom will host this family event on December 19th in anticipation of Hanukkah.

A Christmas Carol

What is the Christmas season without A Christmas Carol? Don't be a scrooge about it - get ye and your family to Ruth Eckerd Hall this December.