The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds today announces this year’s expanded Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights and Santa’s Village will open on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 24, 2022, and deliver winter wonderland magic through Sunday, January 1, 2023. The hometown holiday festival will envelop guests in more than 1 million lights as they drive nearly 2 miles through seasonal and Florida-themed displays including an up-sized animated light tunnel. 

New this year in Santa’s Village, guests can take a speedy slide on the Arctic Plunge Inflatable Snow Tube, Ride the Reindeer Carousel and chug along on the Holiday Train. Those nostalgic for yesteryear can enjoy a self-guided walking tour of the Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village, the Fairgrounds’ permanent display of antique farming equipment and replicas of buildings from the past, all decked out in traditional decor.  For the first time, a Holiday Market will take place on Friday and Saturday evenings, where guests can find the perfect gifts for loved ones.

“We are delighted to expand Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village with more lights and new activities, creating a festive atmosphere where families can make holiday memories,” said Suzanne Holcomb, Fair Manager, Greater Hillsborough County Fairgrounds.  “The new attractions allow guests to experience the beautiful Fairgrounds property with all of the holiday flair.”

Designed to appeal to all ages and backgrounds, the elaborate light displays feature everything from clever raccoons toasting marshmallows to a giant gingerbread house with candy and cakes and from a dynamic western display to a Mrs. Claus’ kitchen.  Santa’s Village is filled with activities and treats that tempt the young and young-at-heart, such as Santa’s Interactive Barnyard; camel rides; craft stations; hot chocolate, warm cider, apple cider donuts, corn dogs, and more; and visits with Santa.

The Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village includes displays representing holiday traditions such as loading a Christmas tree onto the family pickup truck and community skating on the local pond.  Holiday movies and video shorts are featured on the big screen and this section, while picnic tables and fire pits have been added to allow for even more seating.
Live music featuring local favorite Dennis Lee and Tampa-area artist Katie Lombardo perform on select festival days. 

Tickets for this year’s event are on sale now and cost $25/car or $80/bus, the same price as last year. For more information and tickets, please visit www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com. 

David “Thrills” is an avid theme park and entertainment enthusiast. Parts of this article are reproduced or copied directly from the official press release with some additions. Pictures and video are used with permission. For more excitement and news follow me on twitter or instagram. You can also email me at tampathrillme@gmail.com. Subscribe to my blog for more exciting reviews and contests in the future.