When snow falls elsewhere, Florida welcomes visitors with sunshine, warm weather, and endless outdoor adventures. West Central and South Florida shine brightest in the cooler months, offering perfect escapes for snowbirds and seasonal travelers. Explore vibrant local culture, festive parades, and world-class events across both regions.
In West Central Florida, experience Tampa Bay’s exciting sports scene and famous celebrations like Gasparilla and the Florida Strawberry Festival. South Florida adds its own flair with the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, the Coconut Grove Arts Festival, and the Orange Blossom Festival in Davie. Each event showcases Florida’s spirit of celebration and hospitality. From beachside concerts to family attractions, there’s something special happening every week. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or an extended winter stay, Florida offers a season full of warmth, joy, and discovery. With Kong Vacation Homes, you’ll have a comfortable home base near every major attraction and community celebration. Let this guide help you plan the perfect winter filled with sunshine, local flavor, and unforgettable memories.
West Central Florida
Sports Action
For sports enthusiasts, winter in Tampa Bay means nonstop excitement. Catch the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in thrilling NFL matchups at Raymond James Stadium. Hockey fans can cheer for the Tampa Bay Lightning as they take the ice at Amalie Arena. Both teams create unforgettable energy that defines Florida’s winter sports season.
Winter Festivals and Events
Winter in West Central Florida is filled with family fun and festive traditions.
Explore dazzling light displays, waterfront markets, and one-of-a-kind cultural celebrations.
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Christmas in the Wild at ZooTampa – Enjoy holiday lights, wildlife encounters, and seasonal treats.
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Christmas Town at Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay – Experience rides, lights, and live shows with festive flair.
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Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park – Go ice skating, shop local vendors, and sip hot cocoa downtown.
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Festival of Lights at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds – Drive through miles of glowing displays.
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Holiday Spectacular and Tree Lighting at the Tampa Riverwalk – Watch the city sparkle along the waterfront.
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Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival – Celebrate culture with music, art, and community events.
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Gasparilla Pirate Fest – Join Tampa’s famous pirate invasion and parade, a tradition over a century old.
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Florida State Fair – Enjoy carnival rides, local food, and exhibits that highlight Florida’s agricultural roots.
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Gasparilla Music Festival – Experience live performances from national and local artists along Tampa’s Riverwalk.
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Florida Strawberry Festival in Plant City – Savor strawberry-themed desserts, concerts, and carnival fun.
Every event captures the warmth, creativity, and community that make West Central Florida a favorite for winter visitors.
South Florida
Sports Scene
South Florida’s winter sports lineup is unmatched. Watch the Miami Dolphins compete at Hard Rock Stadium or the Miami Heat energize fans at Kaseya Center. Hockey lovers can cheer for the Florida Panthers as they chase another thrilling season. Sports fans enjoy the perfect combination of excitement and tropical weather.
Cultural and Culinary Delights
Winter in South Florida means vibrant festivals, glowing lights, and world-class food events.
From family-friendly attractions to beachfront celebrations, there’s always something happening nearby.
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Santa’s Enchanted Forest in Hialeah Park – Explore one of the largest holiday theme parks in the world.
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Symphony in Lights at Hallandale Beach – Watch music and light displays dance across the night sky.
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Christmas Wonderland at Tropical Park – Enjoy twinkling displays, rides, and seasonal shows with a tropical twist.
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Zoo Lights Miami – Visit Zoo Miami as it transforms into a glowing holiday wonderland.
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South Beach Jazz Festival – Enjoy live jazz performances by talented local and international artists.
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Coconut Grove Arts Festival – Stroll through colorful art exhibits along Miami’s scenic waterfront.
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South Beach Wine & Food Festival® – Taste world-class cuisine prepared by celebrity chefs on South Beach.
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Orange Blossom Festival, Parade, and Rodeo in Davie – Celebrate Florida’s agricultural heritage with music, food, and fun.
Each event showcases South Florida’s rich cultural diversity and passion for celebration, making it a paradise for winter visitors.
Final Thoughts
Florida shines brightest when winter arrives. From Tampa Bay’s festivals to Miami’s coastal celebrations, every region offers something exciting and unforgettable. These events highlight the best of Florida’s winter culture, where sunshine replaces snowfall and outdoor fun never ends.
Make this season your chance to experience warm weather, vibrant communities, and family-friendly adventures across West Central and South Florida. Enjoy live music, local cuisine, and festive parades while creating lasting memories under blue skies.
When it comes to finding the perfect home base, Kong Vacation Homes makes extended stays effortless. Our fully furnished properties in Davie, Hallandale Beach, Tampa Bay, Wesley Chapel, and Zephyrhills offer comfort, space, and convenience. Each home is ideal for families, snowbirds, and winter travelers seeking more than a hotel stay.
Contact us at 866-499-9026 or info@kongmg.com to plan your Florida winter getaway. Stay, explore, and enjoy the season with Kong Vacation Homes—your home-away-from-home in the Sunshine State.