Before you stuff that turkey -- or after you’ve already stuffed yourself -- get out and enjoy the holiday at special events around Tampa Bay.
Christmas Town: The annual holiday event at Busch Gardens in Tampa has millions of twinkling lights covering the park along with a Christmas on Ice show, a tree light show, holiday shopping and culinary treats and chances to meet Santa and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Christmas Town is included with daily admission and runs 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thanksgiving day.
Wonderland of Lights & Santa’s Village: The winter wonderland at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Brandon lets you drive through a mile of Christmas lights and displays. At the end of the ride is Santa’s Village with circus attractions, a wolf exhibit, amusement rides, camel rides and photos with Santa. Wonderland of Lights is open from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thanksgiving day. It runs nightly through Dec. 29.
Tampa Bay Times Turkey Trot: More than 17,000 runners participate in the annual race organized by the Tampa Bay Times. There are multiple races for different skill levels, including ones for competitive runners, casual runners and walkers. Proceeds from the race benefit local charities. Canned and pre-packaged foods will be also be collected before the start of races. Races start at 7 a.m., 8 a.m., 8:15 a.m. and 8:45 a.m.
Goody Good Turkey Gobble: The fourth annual event includes three different races and a chance to have your dog race with you. Registration for all races ends Tuesday. Races start at Amalie Arena in Tampa and kick off at 7 a.m. and 7:15 a.m.
Thanksgiving Bluegrass Festival: The festival from the Sertoma Youth Ranch kicks off on Thanksgiving with a potluck dinner. Thursday entertainment includes shows by Trinity River Band and The Grasscutters. The ranch also includes camping amenities, RV hookups and youth programs. Tickets start at $20 for a non-camper day pass.
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