Tampa To Host Lighted Boat Parade Dec. 19

TAMPA, FL — Tampa will host its lighted holiday boat parade on Dec. 19 along the Hillsborough River in downtown Tampa. The parade will begin in the Convention Center basin, travel to Tampa Heights and end at Sparkman Wharf.

Judges will be pairs from Big Brothers and Big Sisters and the winner of the sailboat and motorboat competitions will receive a trophy.

Viewing the parade is free. To participate in the boat parade, register here. The cost is $50 per vessel and the registration deadline is Dec. 11

Afterward, families are invited to participate in the fun at the annual Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park featuring a riverfront ice skating rink and a nightly light show set to holiday music.

Hosted by the Tampa Downtown Partnership at the park, 600 N. Ashley Drive, Winter Village runs through Jan. 3. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 4 to 9 p.m., Friday from 4 to 10 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m.

Christmas Eve hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Christmas Day hours are 4 to 10 p.m.

The rink will have extended hours Dec. 23-Jan. 3 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday.

See related story: Annual Winter Village, Skating Rink Open At Curtis Hixon Park