Yes, December is a great time to visit Tampa, United States. Here are a few reasons why:
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Holiday events: December is a festive time in Tampa, with many holiday-themed events taking place throughout the city. These include the Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park, the River of Lights at the Tampa Convention Center, and the Christmas Boat Parade on the Hillsborough River.
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Mild weather: December is one of the best months to visit Tampa weather-wise. The average temperature is a comfortable 68 degrees Fahrenheit, with plenty of sunshine. This makes it ideal for exploring the city’s many outdoor attractions, such as the Florida Aquarium, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and the Henry B. Plant Museum.
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Fewer crowds: December is typically less crowded than other times of the year, so you’ll be able to enjoy the city’s attractions without the usual hustle and bustle. This makes it a great time to visit if you’re looking for a more relaxed and laid-back vacation.
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Shopping: December is a great time to do some holiday shopping in Tampa. The city has a variety of shopping malls and boutiques, as well as several unique shopping districts, such as Ybor City and Hyde Park Village.
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Food: Tampa has a thriving food scene, with a wide variety of restaurants to choose from. December is a great time to try some of the city’s best dishes, such as Cuban sandwiches, seafood, and craft beer.
Overall, December is a great time to visit Tampa, United States. The weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and there are plenty of holiday events and activities to enjoy.
Weather In Tampa During December
Average Temperature:
- High: 69°F (21°C)
- Low: 47°F (8°C)
Average Rainfall:
- 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Average Humidity:
- 73%
Expected Weather Conditions:
December in Tampa is typically characterized by mild and pleasant weather. The days are usually sunny and warm, with average highs in the upper 60s Fahrenheit (around 20°C). However, the nights can be cool, with average lows in the mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 7°C).
Rainfall is relatively low in December, with an average of only 2.3 inches. However, occasional showers or thunderstorms can occur, especially in the afternoon or evening. Humidity levels tend to be moderate to high.
Tips for Dressing:
- Pack light layers of clothing, such as shirts, pants, and sweaters.
- Bring a light jacket or coat for evenings and cooler days.
- Do not forget sunglasses and sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong during the day.
Additional Considerations:
- While December is generally a dry month, it is possible to experience rain or thunderstorms, so be prepared with an umbrella or raincoat.
- The nights can get cool, so it is advisable to bring a warm hat and gloves if you plan to be outdoors for extended periods.
- December is a great time to visit Tampa for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or boating, as the weather is generally favorable.
Things To Do In Tampa In December
Festivals and Celebrations:
- Tampa Bay Christmas Village: Located in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, this month-long holiday market features over 60 vendors selling Christmas-themed gifts, decor, and food. Visitors can also enjoy live music, Santa meet-and-greets, and other festive activities.
- Sparkman Wharf Winter Wonder Wharf: From mid-December to early January, Sparkman Wharf transforms into a winter wonderland with holiday-themed activities, live music, and seasonal food and drinks.
- Ice Fest at Winter Village at Water Street: Enjoy ice skating, live music, and artisanal vendors at this outdoor ice rink located in the heart of downtown Tampa.
- Busch Gardens Christmas Town: The theme park is decked out in festive decorations with live shows, nightly fireworks, and a variety of Christmas-themed attractions and activities.
- Tampa Theatre Christmas Movie Marathon: This annual event features a week-long marathon of classic and contemporary Christmas movies, including live organ accompaniment.
Other Unique December Experiences:
- Holiday Lighted Boat Parade: Witness a spectacular parade of over 100 decorated boats cruising through the Hillsborough River on the second Saturday of December.
- Santa’s Workshop at the Florida Aquarium: Kids can meet Santa and his elves, make holiday crafts, and explore the aquarium’s marine life in a festive atmosphere.
- Holiday Boat Extravaganza: Attend a free boat parade at Davis Islands, featuring decorated vessels of all sizes and festive fireworks display.
- Holiday Stroll at Ybor City: Stroll through the historic Ybor City district, admiring the holiday decorations and enjoying live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
- St. Pete Pier Winter Wonderland: Explore the illuminated pier adorned with holiday lights, enjoy live music, and take part in festive activities.
Tourism In Tampa, United States During December
During the festive season of December, Tampa transforms into a vibrant destination adorned with holiday cheer. Visitors flock to the city to immerse themselves in an array of captivating experiences. Ybor City, Tampa’s historic Cuban district, exudes a lively atmosphere with its charming shops, restaurants, and lively entertainment venues. Downtown Tampa sparkles with festive decorations, inviting visitors to stroll along Riverwalk and admire the illuminated skyscrapers and bridges.
The Florida Aquarium transforms into a winter wonderland with its annual “Symphony of the Seas” event, where guests can witness enchanting underwater performances set to the tunes of live holiday music. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, a captivating theme park, unveils its “Christmas Town” extravaganza, offering a dazzling array of festive shows, twinkling lights, and thrilling rides.
For those seeking a festive escape, Channelside Bay Plaza hosts the “Winter Village,” a captivating waterfront destination featuring an open-air ice skating rink, enchanting snow flurries, and a variety of festive vendors. The Tampa Riverwalk comes alive with holiday cheer, offering picturesque views of the decorated waterfront and festive pop-up shops.
Tampa’s culinary scene delights visitors with a diverse array of dining options. From traditional holiday feasts at renowned restaurants to festive street food vendors, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Whether it’s sampling delectable Cuban cuisine in Ybor City or indulging in waterfront dining along Bayshore Boulevard, the city’s culinary delights are sure to warm the hearts of visitors.
The vibrant art scene adds a touch of cultural enchantment to the holiday festivities. The Tampa Museum of Art showcases captivating exhibitions, while local galleries host festive art shows featuring the works of talented local artists. Visitors can also explore the city’s vibrant street art, which adds a unique touch to the urban landscape.
As the holiday spirit fills the air, Tampa transforms into a magical destination, offering a captivating blend of festive traditions, cultural experiences, and warm hospitality.