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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Tampa chapter.

Despite the fact that Florida does not have the typical Christmas weather you might expect due to the high temperatures, there are still traditions you can follow to get into the holiday spirit. There are lots of locations in Tampa with dazzling Christmas lights and lots of holiday fun that can give you a feeling that you are finally in the holiday spirit. These are five things to do in Tampa that will make you feel like you are celebrating joyful Christmas holiday traditions. 

Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park: While you would believe that Florida’s weather limits some Holiday traditions, like ice skating, from continuing, it is still possible in Tampa! This waterfront park in Downtown Tampa offers more than just ice skating; you can also enjoy shopping and sightseeing. =


Festive Boat Ride on the River: Riding the lit-up pirate water taxi is a fantastic way to take in all of Tampa’s stunning Christmas lights and have a leisurely stroll along the Hillsborough River in a festive manner.

Christmas in Historic Plant Hall: The Henry B. Plant Museum provides a special window into the wonder of Christmas in the olden days if you’re in the mood to soak up the holiday spirit and see gorgeous lights. Beautiful ornaments and exquisitely illuminated Christmas trees fill the hallways. Seeing both vintage and contemporary ornaments and decorations is a wonderful way to take in all of the spectacular Christmas beauty and get into the holiday spirit.

Floating Lights on the River: The lit-up figures floating on the Tampa Bay River can be seen by taking a leisurely stroll down the river. They are lit up into a rainbow of colors and shapes! For the first time this holiday season, a 35-foot-tall floating Christmas tree is ceremoniously lit. As you go down the river, you can’t help but be charmed by the floating lights display, which is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: No matter where you live, everyone should experience this wonderful Christmas tradition! The stunning orchestra playing at the Amalie Arena will help you get into the Christmas spirit while you enjoy a fantastic concert.

Taylor Quinn is a social media manager and writer for Her Campus at Tampa chapter. She is part of the social media team who posts regularly for Her Campus events and updates as well as engaging with viewers and followers. Her articles cover a variety of subjects, including pop culture, entertainment, and lifestyle topics. Taylor is a sophomore at the University of Tampa who is majoring in both Film and Communications, Media, and Culture. She has worked on numerous student film sets and is currently a member of a number of clubs at the University of Tampa, including Tampa's Cru, a religious organization, and being a student mentor to incoming freshmen. Taylor is from Kansas City, Missouri and enjoys exploring big cities, watching movies playing her guitar, listening to music, and adventuring new places.