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201 N Franklin St Suite 2900
Tampa, Florida 33602

Events

Event Calendar

River of Lights

Friday, December 4, 2026
5:15 pm8:15 pm
600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa
Tampa, FL 33602
US

"Hop aboard the Pirate Water Taxi for a magical River of Lights Cruise, now departing from the Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park (Stop #12). This unforgettable holiday journey will take you along the Hillsborough River to experience Tampa’s twinkling lights and waterfront décor from the best seat in the city.

Our family-friendly cruises with departures starting at 5:15 PM, 6:15 PM, 7:15 PM, and 8:15 PM feature holiday sing-alongs (complete with snow flurries during “Let It Snow”), cheerful surprises, and plenty of festive fun. Kids can write a letter to Santa and send it through Tampa’s only floating mail buoy, plus enjoy a special visit to the Elf on a Barge, where every child receives a holiday surprise.

For the late-night crowd, we’re bringing back River of Lights Happy Hour Cruise departing at 9:15 PM. This adult-focused experience includes one complimentary beverage, exclusive happy hour specials, and a 45-minute ride filled with holiday cheer. Your holiday-loving tour guide – our mischievous “Holiday Elf” – will hop aboard to point out the lights and keep the fun going."

Our Impact This Year

  • 2025 Volunteer Hours

    1,078

  • 2025 Dollars Raised

    $808,928

  • 2025 Program Participants

    405,525

Friends of the Riverwalk
201 N Franklin St Suite 2900
Tampa, Florida 33602
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