All photos courtesy Busch Gardens Tampa BayOne of the nice things about Florida during the holidays is that there is Christmas cheer around every corner, without a chill in the air. That makes it easy to enjoy so much more of it! Walt Disney World is iconic each holiday season, but there’s more to see in the area. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers Christmas Town, the whole park is dressed up for the season! Below is the official press release.
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The holidays shine brighter than ever at Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town™, filling the season with festive fun and holiday cheer. Running daily from November 15 through January 5, the park will transform into a dazzling winter wonderland, featuring millions of twinkling lights, captivating shows, seasonal treats, holiday animal encounters and joyful rides for the entire family to enjoy. Christmas Town festivities are free with park admission.
New this year, the iconic Skyride will sparkle with festive lights, providing guests with breathtaking 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 like Santa’s North Pole Experience, the Holly Jolly Express, and dazzling shows such as Christmas on Ice will fill the air with festive magic for all ages.
Seasonal treats from holiday-flavored hot chocolates to freshly baked cookies exclusive to Christmas Town will add extra sweetness to the celebration. This year, guests can delight in all-new holiday-inspired menu items, explore the gingerbread cookie decorating station to create their own edible masterpieces, and sip on a selection of new Christmas Town craft cocktails available throughout the park. With unique holiday shopping, special photo opportunities, and endless ways to create lasting memories, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town is the perfect holiday tradition for family and friends.
“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.”
Visitors of all ages can enjoy fan-favorite entertainment celebrating the holiday season. Returning entertainment includes:
- Christmas on Ice – Returning by popular demand, this exhilarating seasonal spectacle at the Moroccan Palace Theater features breathtaking 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 little ones and families alike, 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.
Guests can also enjoy Santa’s North Pole Experience, where they can meet Santa, explore his workshop, and share their holiday wishes. Plus, guests can visit Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland, featuring festive decorations, interactive displays, and opportunities for photos with beloved characters from the classic holiday tale.
To learn more about Christmas Town and all the festive experiences Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has to offer, guests can visit ChristmasTown.com.
Exclusive Offers to Make the Holiday Season Even Brighter
For a limited time, guests can save up to 60% on Tickets, Fun Cards, and Annual Passes at www.BuschGardensTampa.com. Pass Members receive year-round access to thrilling attractions, vibrant seasonal events, and exclusive perks. With unbeatable benefits, including free guest tickets, free parking and discounts on merchandise, food and beverage, it’s the perfect gift for adventure seekers of all ages. Pass Members will also be among the first to experience the all-new Wild Oasis realm before it opens to the public in 2025. For more information, park hours and to purchase tickets, visit www.BuschGardensTampa.com.