Home » TRAVEL EVENT NEWS » Discover the Magic of Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village, Where Over 1 Million Lights Brighten the Holiday Season and Boost Tourism Published on
December 2, 2025As the holiday season kicks off in Tampa Bay, the Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds brings an unforgettable experience to visitors of all ages. With over 1 million lights lighting up the fairgrounds, this spectacular event is a shining example of how Christmas light displays can serve as powerful attractions, drawing tourists from across the state and beyond.This year’s festival, running until December 28, promises to be more vibrant and exciting than ever, thanks to its mesmerizing light displays, festive atmosphere, and special activities for families. From holiday attractions to community events, the Festival of Lights is quickly becoming a must-see event for both locals and visitors, significantly contributing to the local tourism industry.Advertisement In this article, we explore how the Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village enhances the holiday experience for families, promotes winter tourism in the Tampa Bay area, and serves as a key destination for visitors looking for festive fun and holiday cheer.A Winter Wonderland at the Hillsborough County FairgroundsSet in the heart of Tampa Bay, the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds transforms into a glowing winter wonderland every holiday season. With over 1 million lights illuminating the area, the Festival of Lights draws thousands of visitors who come to experience the dazzling display and partake in various holiday-themed activities. The event, which runs through December 28, is one of the most popular Christmas light displays in the area, and it plays a crucial role in attracting tourism during the off-peak winter months.AdvertisementFor those seeking an immersive holiday experience, the festival offers a variety of activities that bring the magic of the season to life. Visitors can explore Santa’s Village, which features a host of interactive experiences for children and families. From visiting Santa Claus and taking photos with him, to enjoying live entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this festive space.The Festival of Lights is not only about the lights; it’s an event that brings people together, creating a sense of community and holiday cheer. Families, friends, and visitors from all over the region gather to celebrate the season, making it an important event in the local tourism calendar.Advertisement A Perfect Destination for Family-Friendly TourismTampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village stands out as an ideal family-friendly holiday destination. The event’s layout is designed with families in mind, offering an abundance of kid-friendly activities, including carnival rides, games, and holiday-themed attractions. The inclusion of Santa’s Village as a focal point makes it an especially popular event for families with young children, who can enjoy interactive experiences such as meeting Santa, participating in holiday arts and crafts, and exploring the festive marketplace.In addition to the entertainment, families can enjoy special events throughout the festival, such as the Paws & Claus Nights, scheduled for Thursday, December 4, and Thursday, December 11. These unique nights allow visitors to bring their pets to Santa’s Village, creating a one-of-a-kind opportunity for families to celebrate the holidays with their furry companions. These special nights not only provide additional excitement for attendees but also reflect the festival’s commitment to creating an inclusive experience for all members of the family, including pets.The Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village helps to establish Tampa Bay as a leading holiday tourism destination, offering a family-fr …
