Things to Do in Tampa Clearwater & St. Pete in December – Events and More

Things to Do in December in Tampa, Clearwater & St. Pete

Get out and explore exciting things to do in Tampa, Clearwater & St. Pete this month with your favorite plus one by checking out our favorite things to do in Tampa Bay this month, December 2023! There’s a lot on our curated guide of things to do. Now’s the time to plan your holiday events in Tampa Bay, the season is here! And New Year’s Eve in Tampa Bay is coming right up.

You’ll also find an ongoing events section for even more date night ideas in Tampa. Check back often as we add more Tampa Bay events to this listing throughout the month.

OUR MONTHLY GUIDE OF OVER 40 THINGS TO DO IN TAMPA BAY CLEARWATER & ST PETE AND EVENTS

For family-friendly things to do in Tampa, check out Tampa Bay Parenting.

Free Things to Do in Tampa Bay, Clearwater & St. Petersburg

You don’t need a huge budget in order to have a fantastic time – there are so many great free things to do in Tampa Bay, Clearwater and St. Petersburg!  Need some ideas about free things to do in Tampa Bay?  We’ve got you covered – check our list that we’ve compiled of our favorite free things to do in Tampa, our favorite free things to do in St. Petersburg, and our favorite free things to do in Clearwater – all over the Tampa Bay area!

These include monthly festivals to art and walking tours, local attractions, and more.

Featured Events

New Year’s Eve Grand Glow Casino Royale

Gather at Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach on New Year’s Eve for a night of glamour and intrigue. Dress to impress and prepare for an unforgettable evening of shaken, not stirred cocktails, thrilling games of chance, and live music from Tampa Bay’s own The Black Honkeys. Welcome 2024 with style, sophistication, and a touch of Bond-worthy class. Doors open at 8pm.

Ticket Information

• Golden Eye Table | $1,250++
  Includes 10 admission tickets, 2 champagne bottles, 2 drink tickets per guest, table near the band, party favors, casino games, champagne toast at midnight, access to moon maker cuisine spread, light bites and apps

• Double Agent Admission | $125++
  Includes admission for one to the venue, two drink tickets, party favors, casino games, champagne toast at midnight, access to moon maker cuisine spread, light bites and apps
  *Food will be available until 11:00pm and desert will be available until 11:45pm.

EVENTS AND THINGS TO DO IN TAMPA, CLEARWATER, ST. PETE THIS WEEK December 4 – 10, 2023

RISE UP ST. PETE CONCERT SERIES
November 4 – January 20, select dates
St. Pete Pier
impressive lineup of 12 national headliners spanning a diverse range of musical genres. From the Grammy-winning Ludacris to the soulful rhythms of The Revivalists, from the infectious beats of Quinn XCII and the chart-topping hits of G Eazy, this series will deliver unforgettable performances.

Rise Up St. Pete Lineup

• 12.01 – LAUV & Chelsea Cutler
• 12.08 – Cavetown
• 12.09 – G-Eazy
• 12.15 – Ludacris
• 1.20 – Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness

Christmas in the Wild
Select Nights, November 25 – December 30
Zoo Tampa
It’s the most wonderful time of the year at ZooTampa with the return of Christmas in the Wild, featuring one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays, delectable holiday treats, amazing wildlife and new festive adventures. This year is BIGGER, better, and brighter than ever, with festive entertainment that the whole family will enjoy. ZooTampa Members and Pay For A Day ticket holders get free admission to seasonal events like Christmas in the Wild.

MORE: Tampa Bay’s BEST Christmas Lights

The Choir of Man
December 4 – 10
Jaeb Theater

Known across the globe as “the ultimate feel-good show,” THE CHOIR OF MAN offers up 90 minutes of indisputable joy. It’s a party. It’s a concert. It’s the best pub lock-in you’ve ever been to. Featuring pop, classic rock, folk, Broadway and pub tunes, THE CHOIR OF MAN has something for everyone.
Tickets start at $84.75

Ornament Making Class
Monday, December 4, 6:30-8pm
Armature Works

Create a custom painted Holiday themed ornament for the holidays! From classic holiday shapes to unique designs, there’s something for everyone. All the painting supplies you need, including a rainbow of paints, brushes, and expert guidance from our talented team members are included. Guests 21+ are invited to enjoy a complimentary glass of wine.
$30 per person

Beer & Cheese Pairing Night
Monday, December 4, 7-8pm
Cueni Brewing Co.

The Cheese & Beer pairing is $30 which includes 4 tasters of beer paired with 4 cheeses. CBC Head Brewer, Jon Cueni will discuss the beer while Becca, the cheese expert, will share about the cheese.
$30

Live From Laurel Canyon
Tuesday, December 5, 8:00pm
Nancy & David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre

Live From Laurel Canyon ~ Songs & Stories of American Folk Rock is a 90-minute journey through a very special time in American popular music. A time when an entire generation of youth felt abandoned by their own culture and were searching for a sound that helped define them; a sound that shared the protest and awareness of folk music and the attitude and look of rock music.
Tickets start at $30

The Dalí Dozen
Wednesday, December 6, 6:30pm
Dalí Museum

Enjoy this special holiday event featuring 12 local up-and-coming artists. Within the Museum and under the lights in the Avant-garden, local artist and artisans will share their talents in celebration of the vibrant Tampa Bay art scene. Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bars, meet, mix and mingle with the artists, Dalí Museum members and volunteers and other art-loving community members.
$30-35

Succulent Wreath Workshop with Cactus Moon
Wednesday, December 6, 6:30-8:30pm
Armature Works

Create your unique living wreath perfect for Florida winter with real succulents & foliage to adorn this metal framed wreath. Cactus Moon owner Crystal will bring various succulents that you can choose from to make your very own one-of-a-kind wreath. A perfect way to welcome your guests into your home this Holiday Season.
$95

The Holiday Promenade
Thursday, December 7, 5-9pm
Water Street

Get started on your holiday shopping at this evening market where you can discover unique gifts and delight in festive entertainment. During this seasonal market on Water Street, shop local vendors and enjoy seasonal activities and performances all under the picture-perfect backdrop of our neighborhood holiday décor.

Charcuterie Class with Graze Uniquely
Thursday, December 7, 6-7pm
Armature Works

Workshop attendees will have a hands-on interactive experience while learning techniques on how to build a beautiful and delicious charcuterie board. What’s better than cheese? A cheese and wine pairing! Owner of Graze Uniquely, Jen, will take you through all the tips and tricks to be an expert at Charcuterie building just in time for all of your holiday parties!
$70

Holiday Wreath Making Workshop
Thursday, December 7, 6:30-8:30pm
Common Dialect Beerworks

Led by an experienced wreath designer, this workshop will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating a beautiful wreath that captures the magic of the season. With an array of fresh greenery and decorative accents, you’ll have everything you need to personalize your wreath and make it truly unique. All materials will be provided, and no prior experience is necessary. This workshop is designed to be fun, inclusive, and suitable for all skill levels. Just bring your creativity and enthusiasm to dive into the holiday crafting spirit!
$70

Sam Morril
Friday, December 8, 7pm
Tampa Theatre
Tickets start at $77

An Evening with Omari Dillard: Soul Violinist
Friday, December 8, 8pm
Centro Asturiano de Tampa

Get ready for an incredible evening of timeless R&B. Classically trained and culturally inspired, fans can expect to sing, dance, and groove to Florida’s hottest violinist in a room filled with positive vibes and electrifying energy. Prepare to enjoy feel-good Classics you know and love LIVE on Violin!
Tickets start at $56

Sneaker Kulture Tampa
Saturday, December 9, 10am-8pm
Raymond James Stadium

Hundreds of exhibits showcasing rare finds in shoes, collectibles, apparel, and accessories from all over the country. Some of the worlds most desirable footwear and rarest collectibles will be on display as well as street wear from local and national fashion designers. The shoes are obviously the stars of the show but there will be lot’s of entertainment including B-Boy performances, Celebrity Appearances, Pop up music performances, Esports tournament, and much more!
Tickets start at $13

Sandbar Holiday Pool Party at Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach
Saturday, December 9, 1pm
Wyndam Grand Clearwater
Enjoy an afternoon of sun, sips, and sounds and the Sandbar Holiday Pool Party. There will be live music, craft beer, and a popup shop with Sandbar Clothing Co.’s latest merch.
$5 per person

Nate Bargatze:The Be Funny Tour
Saturday, December 9, 3pm and 7pm
Amalie Arena
Tickets start at $62

Eddie Griffin
Saturday, December 9, 7:30-9pm
Ferguson Hall – Straz Center
Tickets start at $45

Nurse Blake
Saturday, December 9, 8pm
Carol Morsani Hall – Straz Center
Tickets start at $114

Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run
Sunday, December 10, 2023
George M. Steinbrenner Field

Be part of the original festive race for charity and signature Arthritis Foundation holiday event! Wear your favorite holiday attire and together, we’ll jingle all the way to a cure! Register as an individual or bring a team of friends, family and co-workers to run, walk or stroll, and spread the good cheer. Together, we’re raising funds to support research for ARTHRITIS TREATMENTS & A CURE — plus life-changing ARTHRITIS RESOURCES & LOCAL PROGRAMS.
$25 – $45

Jingle Bell Bazaar
Sunday, December 10, 12-6pm
Centennial Park, Ybor City

Ybor City’s beloved holiday festivals! It’s a day of joy, entertainment, and Christmas spirit. Live bands, captivating performers, delicious food trucks, holiday vendors, Santa’s Village of arts and crafts, free face painting, a video gaming truck, and free pictures with Santa. A holiday festival that brings families and friends together.
FREE

Tampa Oyster Fest
Sunday, December 10, 1pm-5pm
Tabellas at Delaney Creek

Indulge in delicious all-you-can-eat oysters, BBQ, low country boil, open bar, and more. There will be live music and family-friendly fun.
$125-$500

Marine Masterpieces
Sunday, December 10, 6:30-9:30pm
Clearwater Marine Aquarium

CMA invites you to an enchanting evening where the worlds of art and marine life come together in a family-friendly event. In a partnership with the Morean Arts Center, this gathering will allow guests to explore a collaborative marine-themed art installation of colorful marine life blended with complementary artwork. Savor delectable food and local wines while enjoying live entertainment.
$75

Three Dog Night with Special Guest Firefall
Sunday, December 10, 8:00pm
Ruth Eckerd Hall
Tickets start at $42.75

EVENTS AND THINGS TO DO IN TAMPA, CLEARWATER, ST. PETE December 11 – 17, 2023

Watercolor Painting
Monday, December 11, 6:30-8pm
Armature Works

Join Inky Fingers Calligraphy for a beginning watercolor class that will teach you how to create a beautiful winter-themed wreath of winter leaves and other decorative elements. All supplies are included and no experience or artistic skill whatsoever is necessary. 
$50

Sip N Paint – Folk Art Snowman
Monday, December 11, 6:30-8:30pm
Keel & Curley Winery at Keel Farms

Keel Farms is hosting a special Sip N Paint night on the patio where you can drink on your favorite wine, beer, or cider while you paint. You can pre-purchase a carafe of wine, a house made charcuterie box, or even a special 4 drink flight!
$39

Stone Crab Dinner
Monday, December 11, 7pm
Coppertail Brewing

Indulge in 2 POUNDS of succulent stone crab claws, accompanied by delectable sides and sauces. This exclusive dining experience unfolds in the intimate setting of the Coppertail Loft.
$70

Festive Holiday Bouquet Workshop
Tuesday, December 12, 6:30-7:30pm
Hotel Haya

Embrace the festive spirit and get creative with this Holiday Bouquet Workshop! Whether you’re a seasoned floral enthusiast or a complete beginner, this workshop is perfect for everyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their holiday celebrations. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy the beauty of holiday blooms while sipping on the finest coffee at Falt Bread and Butter.
$40

Candle Pour Class
Wednesday, December 13, 7-9pm
Keel & Curley Winery at Keel Farms

During the class, you’ll learn how to create your own unique candle by pouring melted wax into a glass container. Their experienced instructor will guide you through the process and provide tips for creating the perfect scent combination. All candle supplies will be provided, so just bring yourself and your creativity! As a part of this experience you will get one free drink to be redeemed once you have found your seat in the class.
$55

Antinori Truffle Dinner
Thursday, December 14, 6pm
Bern’s Steakhouse

The Antinori family has been committed to the art of winemaking for over six centuries since 1385 when Giovanni di Piero Antinori became a member of the “Arte Fiorentina dei Vinattieri”, the Florentine Winemakers’ Guild. This special five course dinner prepared by Chef Chad Johnson will highlight fresh black and white truffles in every course. There is a brief window of time each year where both white and black truffles are at their peak, this dinner will highlight that time with stunning wines to pair.
$750

Putt the Pier
Friday, December 15-January 2, 2024
St. Pete Pier
Don’t miss your chance to play 18-hole Putt Putt Golf on the pier! Enjoy 360 degree views with holiday themed obstacles surrounded by holiday decorations while listening to holiday tunes.
$12 per person

Anberlin
Friday, December 15, 6:00pm
The Ritz Ybor
$53

Uncorked Creativity
Friday, December 15, 6-9pm
MOSI

Join an award winning instructor that will guide you through the process of making your own celestial masterpiece.
Sip on some complimentary wine, release your creativity and leave with a “wall worthy” 16″ x 20″ painting.
Tickets start at $25

Dalí-Days at The Dome: Ugly Sweater Edition
Friday, December 15, 6:30-9:30pm
The Dalí Museum

Feel the rhythm as a DJ spins joyful tunes and indulge in the spirit with a specialty drink, creating the perfect holiday atmosphere. Embrace the theme by wearing your quirkiest holiday sweater and compete for the ultimate “ugliest sweater” prize. Unleash your inner artist with an interactive art activity, where you can create your own surreal, or just plain ugly, holiday sweater creation to take home. Also enjoy the surreal world of Salvador Dalí through Dalí Alive 360°, an immersive digital experience, where Dalí’s iconic works come alive in a mesmerizing 360-degree display.
Tickets start at $50

Candlelight Ballet: Featuring Tchaikovsky and More
Friday, December 15, 9pm
Centro Asturiano de Tampa

Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Tampa. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Tchaikovsky featuring ballet dancers for select pieces at Centro Asturiano de Tampa under the gentle glow of candlelight.
Tickets start at $35

A Christmas Jazz Party with Paul Gaving and Mosaic
Saturday, December 16, 7-9pm
Bok Tower Gardens

Drummer, composer, and arranger Paul Gavin and his band Mosaic return to Bok Tower Gardens for another Christmas Jazz Party celebrating the holiday season! Featuring incredible vocalists Valerie Gillespie and Bryan Hughes in a huge 9-piece band, swing in the Christmas season. Enjoy Little Drummer Boy, Carol of the Bells, Jingle Bells, and much more. Tap your feet, sing along, and dance too.
Tickets start at $35

Wheel of Fortune LIVE!
Saturday, December 16, 7:00pm
Ruth Eckerd Hall

Wheel of Fortune LIVE! brings America’s Game® to your hometown! One of the greatest game shows of all time has been adapted into a stage show to give more fans access and more chances to win at “Wheel of Fortune LIVE!” Guests are randomly selected to go on stage and feel like they stepped into the game show itself.
Tickets start at $30.75

EVENTS AND THINGS TO DO IN TAMPA, CLEARWATER, ST. PETE December 18 – 24, 2023

Sparkling Wines of the World
Monday, December 18, 6-7:30pm
Thrive DTSP

This class will explore several production styles of sparkling wines from around the world, while sharing stories of the holiday traditions from the regions. You will sip along with top Sommeliers as they share stories, history, and of course the wines!! Your ticket includes a tasting pour of several sparkling wines from around the world, wine education with handouts, light bites that pair with the wines (some will be surprising, but delish!)
$55

Mandala Beer Stein Class
Monday, December 18, 6:30-8:30pm
Caledonia Brewing

Come join Jennifer of HomeGrown & RockSolid for this fun class & learn how to create a dotted mandala beer stein with just a few easy techniques. Take home a FUNctional piece of art that YOU created.
$40

Wines of Portugal
Tuesday, December 19, 6-7pm
Predalina

Predalina’s Advanced Sommelier, Mark Hoefer, guides you through an in depth study of four select wines of Portugal. This event includes light bites to accompany the wine tasting.
$80

Next Generation Ballet®’s Nutcracker
December 21 – 23
Carol Morsani Hall – Straz Center

Now a glittering holiday tradition for all of Tampa Bay, Next Generation Ballet®’s Nutcracker takes audiences into a fantastical world of dazzling dancing sweets, sword-fighting rodents and timeless ballet music. Featuring Next Generation Ballet’s award-winning young dancers alongside guest principal dancers from powerhouse companies across the nation, this family-favorite ballet is not one to be missed.
Tickets start at $20.50

Holiday Performance: Epiphany Ukrainian Choir
Thursday, December 21, 5-5:30pm
The Dalí Museum

Celebrate the holidays at The Dalí with a performance by The Epiphany of our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church Choir, as their voices radiate through the Atrium of the glass Enigma. Along with their vocals, the choir will showcase the Bandura, a traditional Ukrainian instrument. This event is held on the third floor Bay Vista of the Museum (gallery access not included). The performance can be heard on the ground floor.
The Museum’s ground floor is free and open to the public.

“Holiday Wreath” Paint and Sip
Thursday, December 21, 6-9pm
Dissent Craft Brewing Company

Immerse yourself in festive creativity and share the joy with friends and family. Create memories on canvas that sparkle as bright as the holiday lights!
$39

Mixology Class
Thursday, December 21, 6:30-8pm
Voyage Med Spa and Wellness

Get ready to shake, stir, and sip your way through an unforgettable evening of cocktail creation. Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a curious enthusiast, this in-person event is perfect for all skill levels. During this interactive class, you’ll have the opportunity to experiment with a wide range of premium spirits, fresh ingredients, and unique garnishes. 
$105

Pirates Plundering Pristine: A Murder Mystery Dinner
Friday, December 22, 7-10pm
Wild Rover Brewing Company

Each of you will be assigned to a pirate faction, and as a team, will find the murderer (or protect them from rival pirate factions!) What’s more? The pirate faction with the most amount of gold by the end of the night will end up taking control of The Booze Cruiser & it’s krew. Your ticket will include an appetizer, entrée, & dinner buffet to accompany the entertainment. As always, our bar will be open fer yer coin!
$50

Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Saturday, December 23, 2:30 & 7:30pm
Amalie Arena
Tickets start at $39

EVENTS AND THINGS TO DO IN TAMPA, CLEARWATER, ST. PETE December 25 – 31, 2023

Classic Albums Live: Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon
Saturday, December 30, 8pm
Nancy & David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre

Experience Classic Albums Live as they perform Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon note for note, cut for cut, live on stage at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre! Using the world’s greatest musicians, Classic Albums Live takes chart-topping albums and performs them live without all the gimmickry and cheesy impersonations.Tickets start at $35

Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert
Sunday, December 31, 3pm
Ruth Eckerd Hall

Leave behind 2023 and waltz into 2024 when Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert returns for their 26th annual celebration at Ruth Eckerd Hall! This dazzling performance evokes a golden age of Viennese music, brimming with energy, merriment, and romance. It is a glorious re-creation of the beloved Neujahrskonzert, the concert that has welcomed the New Year for more than 80 years in Vienna and all over the world.
Tickets start at $35

ReliaQuest Bowl New Year’s Eve Parade
Sunday, December 31, 5:30-7:30pm
Ybor City

Eclectic Ybor City is the site of this festive celebration featuring the ReliaQuest Bowl New Year’s Eve Parade and a pep rally by the college marching bands & cheerleaders. The parade will feature floats and about numerous marching bands from around the country! Be there early. The Parade starts at 5:30 p.m. and runs along 7th Avenue.
FREE