Winter in Tampa Bay is peak festival season for families — cooler weather, outdoor fun, and calendars packed with events that actually work for kids. From pirate parades to science expos and strawberry shortcake, these are the winter festivals my St. Pete family looks forward to every year, listed in the order they happen so you can plan ahead.
Children’s Gasparilla Parade
Saturday, January 24, 2026
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📅 Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
⏰ Time: 12:00 PM – 7:30 PM (parade typically mid-afternoon)
📍 Location: Bayshore Boulevard, Tampa
Children’s Gasparilla is a Tampa classic and one of the best introductions to parade season for kids. It’s alcohol-free, family-focused, and full of pirate krewes, marching bands, beads, candy, and floats that keep little ones engaged the entire route. There are also kid-centric events like the Preschooler’s Stroll and the Bicycle & Pedestrian Safety Rodeo.
Parent Insider Tip: Claim your spot early — especially if you want shade or a front-row view. We aim to arrive before lunchtime, bring snacks, and let the kids burn energy before the parade starts.
St. Pete Science Fest + MarineQuest
Saturday, February 7, 2026
📅 Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Location: USF St. Petersburg Campus & Poynter Park, St. Petersburg
This is hands-down one of my favorite weekends of the year as a parent. St. Pete Science Fest turns downtown into an outdoor classroom with hands-on STEAM activities, experiments, robots, and demos. Right next door, MarineQuest (hosted by FWRI) lets kids explore marine science through research exhibits, touch tanks, and real scientists eager to answer questions.
Parent Insider Tip: Park downtown and walk or take the trolley — it’s easier than hunting for campus parking. Plan at least 2–3 hours if your kids love hands-on activities.
Raptor Fest at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
Saturday, February 7, 2026
📅 Date: Saturday, February 7, 2026
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📍 Location: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, St. Petersburg
Yes, it’s the same day as Science Fest — and the perfect way to split the day! Raptor Fest is an unforgettable experience featuring birds of prey like owls, hawks, and eagles. There are live flight demonstrations, bird walks, and educational exhibits that are fascinating for all ages.
Parent Insider Tip: Use the free shuttles from nearby lots and arrive early for flight demos — they fill up fast and are the highlight of the day.
Florida State Fair
Thursday, February 5 – Sunday, February 16, 2026
📅 Dates: February 5–16, 2026
⏰ Hours: Vary by day (often around 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM)
📍 Location: Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa
The Florida State Fair is a winter staple for Tampa Bay families. Between the rides, animal barns, competitions, shows, games, and all the fair food you can imagine, it’s an event we usually spread out over more than one visit.
Parent Insider Tip: Weekday mornings or early afternoons are the sweet spot — fewer crowds, shorter ride lines, and cooler temperatures for walking the grounds.
Localtopia
Saturday, February 14, 2026
(Rain date: February 21, 2026)
📅 Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026
⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
📍 Location: Williams Park & surrounding streets, St. Petersburg
Localtopia is pure St. Pete — a celebration of local makers, food, art, music, and small businesses. The Family Village area is a huge win for kids, with interactive activities and space to roam while parents browse booths or grab lunch from a local vendor.
Parent Insider Tip: Bring a stroller, wagon, or scooters. The festival footprint is big, and wheels make it way more enjoyable for everyone.
Florida Strawberry Festival
Thursday, February 26 – Sunday, March 8, 2026
📅 Dates: February 26 – March 8, 2026
⏰ Hours: Typically late morning through evening
📍 Location: Florida Strawberry Festival Grounds, Plant City
This one feels like winter slowly turning into spring. The Florida Strawberry Festival combines agriculture, rides, concerts, livestock shows, parades, and more strawberry treats than you think possible. It’s a full-day adventure and a tradition for many local families.
Parent Insider Tip: Weekday afternoons are calmer and easier to navigate with kids — plus the weather is usually perfect for walking the grounds.
Final Thoughts From a St. Pete Parent
Winter in Tampa Bay is packed with festivals that truly get families — outdoor spaces, interactive learning, and just enough structure to keep kids entertained without overwhelming them. Whether you pick one or try to hit them all, these events are what make winter here so special. Be sure to follow @Sunshinecitywithkids on Instagram to stay up to date on all things kid and family-friendly in Tampa Bay.
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