Tampa, Florida is one of the best cities in the state when it comes to offering exciting events for kids. From outdoor festivals and hands-on learning to seasonal celebrations and cultural gatherings, Tampa provides families with year-round opportunities to enjoy fun, safe, and engaging experiences for children of all ages. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something special going on in Tampa that’s perfect for kids.
One of Tampa’s biggest attractions for families is Busch Gardens, a theme park that combines rides, shows, and animal encounters. Throughout the year, Busch Gardens hosts special events just for kids, including Sesame Street Safari of Fun Kids’ Weekends. These events include interactive character meet-and-greets, dance parties, scavenger hunts, and kid-friendly live shows. During Halloween and Christmas, the park transforms into a wonderland with colorful lights, costumes, and themed entertainment perfect for children.
Another family favorite is ZooTampa at Lowry Park. It’s not just a zoo—it’s a place for year-round kids’ events that combine fun with learning. Seasonal activities like Creatures of the Night and Christmas in the Wild allow kids to experience the zoo in new and exciting ways. These events feature festive lights, holiday music, themed shows, and animal encounters that kids will love. The zoo also offers educational programs and camps where children can get up close with animals and learn about conservation in a hands-on environment.
Tampa’s Glazer Children’s Museum is another top destination for young minds. Located in downtown Tampa, the museum is built entirely around learning through play. It regularly hosts events such as Kids’ New Year’s Eve, superhero days, science-themed weekends, and sensory-friendly mornings. Exhibits include imaginative play zones like a kid-sized grocery store, a fire station, and a hospital, all designed to teach children real-world concepts in a playful way.
Families looking for free or low-cost fun can find plenty of kid-friendly events at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Located along the Riverwalk, this park is a central hub for community events throughout the year. It often hosts outdoor movie nights, music festivals, and seasonal celebrations that include bounce houses, games, face painting, and food trucks. During the summer, the splash pad at the park is a favorite for kids to cool off while parents relax in the shade.
In the spring, Easter-themed events are everywhere. Community egg hunts, petting zoos, and visits from the Easter Bunny are hosted by local churches, parks, and shopping centers. Tampa also has spring festivals with rides, food, games, and art activities perfect for families looking to enjoy the great weather. The Florida Strawberry Festival in nearby Plant City is also a big hit, featuring concerts, rides, and plenty of delicious strawberry treats.
As the weather heats up, summer events in Tampa shift toward water fun and adventure. Many local recreation centers offer summer camps packed with games, sports, crafts, and swimming. Tampa’s libraries host summer reading programs with prizes, workshops, and special performances to keep kids learning even when school is out. Water parks and beaches nearby also hold themed days and children’s activities that make summer break more exciting.
Fall in Tampa is filled with family-friendly Halloween events. ZooTampa’s Creatures of the Night is perfect for kids who enjoy spooky but not-too-scary fun. Local farms offer pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and hayrides. Neighborhoods, malls, and parks host trick-or-treat events that provide a safe environment for kids to dress up and enjoy the season. Fall festivals often include craft booths, music, and games that bring the whole family together.
Winter in Tampa may not bring snow, but the holiday season is just as magical. The Tampa Riverwalk comes alive with lights, parades, and festive decorations during the Winter Village event. Families can enjoy ice skating, holiday shopping, and train rides for the little ones. Many neighborhoods put on light shows, and churches and schools host Christmas plays, caroling, and seasonal parties.
Throughout the year, Tampa’s cultural festivals add an extra layer of fun and learning for kids. Events like the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival, Gasparilla Children’s Parade, and International Festival in Ybor City feature music, dance, food, and crafts from around the world. These events give kids the chance to experience different cultures and traditions in a fun and welcoming environment.
Tampa also supports a wide range of smaller events organized by community centers, libraries, and schools. Storytime, art classes, science fairs, puppet shows, and game nights are just a few of the activities available to families throughout the city. Many of these are free and offer a great way for children to learn and socialize in a safe space.
Tampa kids events are more than just entertainment—they’re about building memories, learning new things, and bringing families closer together. With so many different types of events happening throughout the year, families in Tampa are never short of options. Whether it’s a simple day at the park or a big celebration at a theme park, Tampa offers something for every child to enjoy.