TAMPA, Fla. - If you're looking for something fun to do this weekend (November 30 - December 2), there's plenty of action happening around the Tampa Bay area.
Friday, November 30
Sparkman Wharf Grand Opening
When: 11 a.m.
Where: Sparkman Wharf at 615 Channelside Drive, Tampa
Cost: Free Admission
Info: The new Sparkman Wharf, N 27° 56’34.63’’ W 82°26’50.04,” is about eating, drinking and playing — all with a waterfront view. Enjoy 10 different restaurants and a new biergarten called ‘Fermented Reality’ which will pour Tampa Bay and other Florida brews from 30 taps. The grand opening begins at 11 a.m.
Tampa's Tree Lighting Ceremony
When: 6 p.m.
Where: Curtis Hixon Park at 600 North Ashley Drive, Tampa
Cost: Free
Info: Get ready for Tampa's annual Tree Lighting Ceremony! Festivities begin at 6 p.m. The evening will include a countdown to light the tree with Mayor Buckhorn and a free movie in the park. Admission is free. Blankets, low back chairs, coolers and dogs on leashes are allowed. Concessions will be available.
Christmas in the Wild
When: 4 p.m. - close
Where: Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo at 1101 W Sligh Avenue, Tampa
Cost: $24.95
Info: Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo is transforming into a world of winter wonder for the Christmas in the Wild event! For 18 delightful nights, enjoy a merry and memorable evening with this unique, but traditional holiday event in the special setting of the Zoo at night. From the sights of stunning lights, the seasonal smells of holiday treats, the excitement of festive entertainment and the magic of wildlife at night, Christmas in the Wild will offer guests of all ages a uniquely immersive holiday experience.
Siesta Beach Seafood and Music Festival
When: November 30 - December 2
Where: Siesta Beach
Cost: $5
Info: At Siesta Key Seafood & Music Festival, hungry festival-goers will flock to enjoy a delicious array of seafood ranging from Cajun-style crawfish to raw bars. The festival also features a beer garden, live music, arts & crafts as well as a variety of attractions for folks of all ages.
Saturday, December 1
97x Next Big Thing
When: December 1-2
Where: MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
Cost: $35 per day
Info: 97x Next Big Thing will feature Panic! At The Disco, Bastille, Foster the People, Young the Giant, AJR and many more this weekend. The festival runs Saturday and Sunday at the Florida State Fairgrounds.
Harlem Globetrotters at Yuengling Center
When: 3 p.m.
Where: Yuengling Center at 4202 East Fowler Avenue, Tampa
Cost: $20
Info: The Harlem Globetrotters are legendary worldwide, synonymous with one-of-a-kind family entertainment and great basketball skills for the past 92 years. The Original Harlem Globetrotters have showcased their iconic talents in 123 countries and territories on six continents, often breaking down cultural and societal barriers. Featuring some of the most elite dunkers, ball handlers, and Guinness World Record holders, a Globetrotters game is far more than just basketball.
Miracle on Cleveland Street
When: 5 p.m.
Where: Cleveland Street, Downtown Clearwater
Cost: Free Admission
Info: This free holiday festival will transform the 400-600 blocks of downtown Clearwater’s Cleveland Street District into a holiday wonderland complete with falling snow, an ice skating rink, horse-drawn carriage rides, pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus.
Holiday Boat Parade
When: 6 p.m.
Where: Dunedin Marina at 51 Main Street, Dunedin
Cost: Free
Info: Ring in the holidays during this traditional waterfront celebration as decorated boats parade through Dunedin. The parade route runs from Marker 1 Marina, south along the Intracoastal to Union St, returns north to Dunedin Marina. Boats arrive at Dunedin Marina at approximately 7:00 pm. Limited viewing at Weaver Park and along Bayshore Blvd and Edgewater Dr. Limited seating. Make sure to bring lawn chairs.
Sunday, December 2
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers
When: 1 p.m.
Where: Raymond James Stadium at 4201 North Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa
Cost: $50
Info: Watch the Tampa Bay Buccaneers take on the Carolina Panthers on Sunday! The game kicks off at 1 p.m. at Raymond James Stadium.
A Christmas Story at Tampa Theatre
When: 3 p.m.
Where: Tampa Theatre at 711 North Franklin Street, Tampa
Cost: $10
Info: Don't shoot your eye out! A Christmas Story will be playing at the Tampa Theatre on Sunday at 3 p.m.
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