TAMPA, FL – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town is returning this weekend, filling the season with festive fun and holiday cheer for theme park fans. The special event runs daily from Nov. 15 through Jan. 5, the park will transform into a winter wonderland, featuring millions of lights, captivating shows, seasonal treats, holiday animal encounters and joyful rides for the entire family. Christmas Town festivities are free with Busch Gardens Tampa Bay park admission.

New this year, the iconic Skyride will sparkle with lights, providing guests with nighttime views of Busch Gardens dressed in its best holiday decor. Guests can also enjoy rides on fan-favorite attractions and coasters, including the all-new Phoenix Rising, making its Christmas Town debut. Beloved holiday experiences such as Santa’s North Pole Experience, the Holly Jolly Express, and shows such as Christmas on Ice will be enjoyable for all ages.

Seasonal treats include holiday-flavored hot chocolates and freshly baked cookies exclusive to Christmas Town. This year, guests can enjoy in all-new holiday-inspired menu items, explore the gingerbread cookie decorating station, and sip on a selection of new Christmas Town libations available throughout the park.

“Christmas Town brings the magic of the holiday season to life right here in Tampa Bay,” said Kristine Morgan, Vice President of Entertainment at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. “Christmas Town allows families to create lasting memories together within an immersive realm of beautiful lights, festive entertainment and the spirit of Christmas.”

• Christmas on Ice – Returning by popular demand, this seasonal spectacle at the Moroccan Palace Theater features exclusive ice-skating performances. Experience the joy of the holiday season as talented skaters dazzle with routines set to beloved Christmas classics and contemporary favorites.
• Mrs. Claus’ Storytime – Perfect for all families, this enchanting story time will delight audiences with Mrs. Claus’ warm presence and charming storytelling style. Children will be captivated as she weaves magical tales that inspire wonder and celebrate the true spirit of the holidays.
• Busch Gardens Holiday Magic – This captivating performance features amazing illusions, impressive choreography, and festive music for a memorable holiday experience in the Stanleyville Theater.
• Three Kings Journey – Be immersed in the inspiring musical tale of the Three Wise Men as they embark on their journey to Bethlehem.
• Holly Jolly Express – All aboard the jolliest train in town. Guests will be whisked away on a festive journey around the park, where they can sing along to their favorite holiday tunes. Join the celebration and spread Christmas cheer while riding the Holly Jolly Express.
• Elmo’s Christmas Wish – Join Cookie Monster, Rosita, Grover, and Zoe as they help Elmo find his Christmas wish. Families are sure to be singing and dancing along while watching this fun holiday show.
• Christmas Town Character Appearances – Don’t miss your chance to capture unforgettable moments with special seasonal characters scattered throughout the park. Pose for photos with enchanting princesses and many more festive friends who are eager to celebrate the season.
• Holiday in the Sky: A Nighttime Spectacular – Watch the night sky come alive with a breathtaking display of festive fireworks, perfectly synchronized to a soundtrack of classic holiday tunes.

To learn more about Christmas Town and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, guests can visit ChristmasTown.com.

About me: Hello my name is Carlos Hernandez and I am a writer and journalist with over 10 years of experience. I write the food and travel blog Carlos Eats (https://www.carloseats.com) and also contribute to several newspapers and magazines on numerous topics.