Busch Gardens Christmas Town Tampa: 2025 Guide

Snow may be scarce in Florida, but the Christmas spirit overflows at Christmas Town, Busch Gardens Tampa. Each winter, the 335-acre theme park transforms into a twinkling wonderland with over 10 million lights, festive shows, indulgent holiday treats, shopping, and cheerful character encounters.

Best of all, this Christmas celebration is included with park admission, making it an irresistible escape for families yearning for yuletide magic—with no need to bundle up for snow.

Lights, Camera, Manger! Where the Fun Unfolds

From safari scenes to light tunnels, every corner sparkles with holiday cheer at Christmas Town, Busch Gardens Tampa.

Location: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL.

Themed Highlights:

• The luminescent journey stretches from the iconic Moroccan Palace Theater to the Serengeti Plain.
• Christmas Town Village: A European-style market with holiday cabins serving up sweets, savory dishes, and unique souvenirs.
• Light Tunnel: Near the Bird Gardens, a majestic light tunnel provides perfect photo ops.
• New for 2025: The famous Skyride now sparkles with festive lights, offering unique night-time views, and the all-new “Phoenix Rising” coaster debuts for holiday thrills.

’Tis the Season—When to Catch the Cheer

Catch dazzling lights, thrilling rides, and fireworks all season long—no scarf required.

• Dates: November 14, 2025, through January 5, 2026. Christmas Town runs daily during this period.
• Hours: Most days from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with some select weekdays closing at 8 p.m.
• Special Event Nights: “Holiday in the Sky” firework spectacular lights up on Saturdays and select evenings, with festivities ramping up after sunset.

Pro tips: Arrive early for daytime rides; the Christmas Town activities intensify after 4 p.m. Festivities also take place on Christmas Eve (9 a.m.–8 p.m.) and Christmas Day (9 a.m.–10 p.m.).

Who Should Go and Why They’ll Love It

Whether you’re five or fifty, there’s magic here for every holiday mood.

• Families: Kids love the Sesame Street Safari of Fun’s “Elmo’s Christmas Wish”; memorable moments abound with character meet-and-greets like Rudolph and Santa.
• Thrill-Seekers: Experience world-class coasters like the new Phoenix Rising, or enjoy classic rides after dark under the glow of millions of lights.
• Couples and Multigenerational Groups: Stroll through synchronized LED canopies and gather for heartwarming live shows like “Three Kings Journey” at the Dragonfire Grill or the dazzling “Christmas on Ice” at the Moroccan Palace Theater.
• Shopaholics: Christmas Town Village and Marrakesh Market offer themed merchandise, ornaments, gifts, and more.

Sparkling Highlights You Can’t Miss

Santa sightings, singing trains, and ice skating shows? Sign us up.

• Santa’s North Pole Experience: Meet Santa in a charming, immersive workshop. Snap photos and create memories (until Dec 24).
• Holly Jolly Express: Board a sing-along train ride through festive African animal habitats.
• Christmas on Ice: World-class skaters dazzle audiences with a holiday-themed ice show at the Moroccan Palace Theater (multiple showings per day; arrive early).
• Storytime with Mrs. Claus: Enjoy heartwarming holiday tales and songs at the Coke Canopy.
• Three Kings Journey: Live choir and musical retelling of the journey to Bethlehem, performed select nights at the Dragon Fire Grill.
• Holiday in the Sky Fireworks: Seasonal fireworks choreographed to festive melodies, best viewed from Festival Field behind Iron Gwazi, on Saturdays and select peak nights.
• Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland: Meet Rudolph, Clarice, and Bumble; pose for memorable photos at Pantopia Theater.
• Sugar Plum Ballerina & Princesses: Character greetings and photo ops throughout the park.
• Themed Light Tunnel: A must-see Insta-worthy light tunnel by the Bird Gardens.
• Christmas Town VIP Tour: Upgrade your day with skip-the-line character experiences, a keepsake mug, reserved ice show seating, and more.

Food & Drink Extravaganza

Holiday treats and seasonal drinks for every palate:

Christmas Town Village:

• Holiday turkey with cornbread stuffing
• Braised short ribs with gouda mac & cheese
• Peppermint cheesecake, apple spice cake, mushroom ravioli with truffle cream sauce, bourbon & fall spice pork shank
• Signature cocktails like the Mistletoe Margarita, Snow Bird, and Bailey’s Floaters. Don’t miss the Christmas Town hot chocolate, peppermint, and gingerbread flavors.

Food & Beverage Sampler Lanyard: Starting at around $45, available in 5 & 10-item (with a special 12-item version for pass members)—the tastiest way to tour the event.

Parking Made Merry

Stress-free parking means more time sipping cocoa and snapping selfies.

• Parking: General starts at around $30/vehicle. Preferred is around $35–$40, subject to availability. Trams make entry easy (expect a 5–10 minute walk/tram from lot). Annual pass members get free standard parking.
• Shopping: Christmas Town Village, Xcursions, Marrakesh Market, Emporium, and Painted Camel Bazaar for holiday gifts.
• PhotoKey: Convenient digital photo storage available at key meet-and-greet locations.

Sleigh the Season with Easy Holiday Booking

Ready to make some merry memories? Tripster helps you bundle Busch Gardens Tampa tickets with nearby hotels and Tampa attractions—with savings up to 76% off gate prices.

With flexible vacation packages, simple changes, and one easy-to-manage itinerary, Tripster takes the pressure off planning so you can focus on twinkling lights, festive bites, and holiday joy. Book your Christmas Town getaway today and let Tripster guide your sleigh straight to the magic.