Downtown After Hours

Thursday, December 14, 2017

Thursday, December 14

Victorian Christmas Stroll
10am to 8pm
Henry B. Plant Museum
Experience the extravagance and grandeur of a Victorian Christmas at the former 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel. Decorations include vintage fashions, antique toys, locally sourced cigar boxes, and fanciful ornaments. Complimentary cider and cookies will be served on the veranda while holiday music floats through the air. Victorian Christmas Stroll

Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
4pm to 10pm
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Celebrate the holiday season in Downtown Tampa at the Winter Village presented by USAmeriBank and brought to you by Tampa Downtown Partnership. The park will be transformed with the sights, sounds and activities of the holidays for children and adults of all ages. Skate around at the outdoor ice rink or get some gift shopping done at the Holiday Market. 2017-2018 Winter Village

Love Never Dies
Begins 7:30pm
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s spellbinding sequel to The Phantom of the Opera. 10 years after his disappearance from the Paris Opera House, the Phantom has escaped to New York. In this new world, he has finally found a place for his music to soar, but he has never stopped yearning for his one true love. Don’t miss this magnificent continuation of one of the world’s greatest love stories as it makes its premiere in Tampa. Love Never Dies

Friday, December 15

Victorian Christmas Stroll
10am to 8pm
Henry B. Plant Museum
Experience the extravagance and grandeur of a Victorian Christmas at the former 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel. Decorations include vintage fashions, antique toys, locally sourced cigar boxes, and fanciful ornaments. Complimentary cider and cookies will be served on the veranda while holiday music floats through the air. Victorian Christmas Stroll

Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
10am to 10pm
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Celebrate the holiday season in Downtown Tampa at the Winter Village presented by USAmeriBank and brought to you by Tampa Downtown Partnership. The park will be transformed with the sights, sounds and activities of the holidays for children and adults of all ages. Skate around at the outdoor ice rink or get some gift shopping done at the Holiday Market. 2017-2018 Winter Village

River of Lights Holiday Boat Tour
5:45pm to 6:30pm
Pirate Water Taxi
Cruise through Downtown Tampa on the water and enjoy the beautiful sights of the holiday season. Pass beneath the lighted bridges to enter Hillsborough River for a one-of-a-kind tour. Enjoy a whimsical narration on the first half of the cruise and then join in with Christmas Carolers while sipping on hot chocolate and nibbling on a delicious holiday cookie. There is no better way to experience the holidays in Tampa! River of Lights Holiday Boat Tour

Elf in the Park
7:30pm to 9:15pm
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Elf will be presented as a free community screening as part of the Tampa Downtown Partnership’s Winter Village event. Lawn seating is first-come, first-served, so please don’t forget your blankets or folding lawn chairs. Refreshments will be available for sale from Tampa Theatre and a variety of other Winter Village vendors. Elf in the Park

Ben Haggard
Begins 7:30pm
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Like father, like son. In this case, that means hard-driving, real-deal, legendary country music forged by the late, great Merle Haggard. Merle lives through his youngest son in this extraordinary tribute to his music and songs. Now a songwriter in his own right, Ben follows in his daddy’s footsteps while striking his own path. Ben Haggard

Katy Perry: Witness Tour
Begins 7:30pm
Amalie Arena
In her newest album, Katy reflects on the changes in her own life and in the world around her, delivering songs that both challenge and inspire. See the pop star deliver her incredible spectacle of a performance and sing along to all your favorites live! Katy Perry: Witness Tour

Love Never Dies
Begins 8pm
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s spellbinding sequel to The Phantom of the Opera. 10 years after his disappearance from the Paris Opera House, the Phantom has escaped to New York. In this new world, he has finally found a place for his music to soar, but he has never stopped yearning for his one true love. Don’t miss this magnificent continuation of one of the world’s greatest love stories as it makes its premiere in Tampa. Love Never Dies

The Florida Orchestra – Holiday Pops
Begins 8pm
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Have a jolly good time with the whole family at this popular Florida Orchestra tradition, filled with the joy of your favorite yuletide carols. Brian Byrne will conduct this fun holiday show. The Florida Orchestra – Holiday Pops

Avenue Q – The Return
Begins 8pm
Stageworks Theatre
A laugh-out-loud musical that tells the timeless story of a recent college grad named Princeton who moves into a shabby New York apartment all the way out on Avenue Q. There, he meets Kate and a handful of other colorful types who help him finally discover his purpose in life. Avenue Q – The Return

Saturday, December 16

Private Lesson Recitals
Begins 10am
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Youth and adult students who are taking private music lessons with the teaching-artists of the Patel Conservatory will perform. The recitals feature musicians training on all instruments and voice, performing classical and contemporary pieces. These 45-minute recitals are scheduled throughout the day on the hour. Private Lesson Recitals

Victorian Christmas Stroll
10am to 8pm
Henry B. Plant Museum
Experience the extravagance and grandeur of a Victorian Christmas at the former 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel. Decorations include vintage fashions, antique toys, locally sourced cigar boxes, and fanciful ornaments. Complimentary cider and cookies will be served on the veranda while holiday music floats through the air. Victorian Christmas Stroll

Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
10am to 10pm
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Celebrate the holiday season in Downtown Tampa at the Winter Village presented by USAmeriBank and brought to you by Tampa Downtown Partnership. The park will be transformed with the sights, sounds and activities of the holidays for children and adults of all ages. Skate around at the outdoor ice rink or get some gift shopping done at the Holiday Market. 2017-2018 Winter Village

Saturday With Santa
10:30am to 1:30pm
The Florida Aquarium
Bring your family and friends to celebrate the holidays. Santa will be at the Aquarium for photos and general merriment. His elves will join him and dive in the Aquarium’s Coral Reef habitat during its regularly scheduled dive presentations. Saturday With Santa

Art Spot
11am to 2pm
Tampa Museum of Art
Let your imagination run free as the Museum’s art facilitators introduce exhibition-specific methods of art making filled with fun and creativity for you and yours. Art Spot

Love Never Dies
Shows at 2pm and 8pm
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s spellbinding sequel to The Phantom of the Opera. 10 years after his disappearance from the Paris Opera House, the Phantom has escaped to New York. In this new world, he has finally found a place for his music to soar, but he has never stopped yearning for his one true love. Don’t miss this magnificent continuation of one of the world’s greatest love stories as it makes its premiere in Tampa. Love Never Dies

River of Lights Holiday Boat Tour
5:45pm to 6:30pm
Pirate Water Taxi
Cruise through Downtown Tampa on the water and enjoy the beautiful sights of the holiday season. Pass beneath the lighted bridges to enter Hillsborough River for a one-of-a-kind tour. Enjoy a whimsical narration on the first half of the cruise and then join in with Christmas Carolers while sipping on hot chocolate and nibbling on a delicious holiday cookie. There is no better way to experience the holidays in Tampa! River of Lights Holiday Boat Tour

Dean Johanesen – Live & Local
5:45pm to 7:45pm
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
After being in bands for many years with rotating members and differentiating musical influences, Johanesen decided to pursue a solo career. A recent passion for gypsy jazz music in the vein of Django Reinhardt has put Johanesen on a musical path with a focus on new stories of old times. Enjoy a skillful performance from this local talent. Dean Johanesen – Live & Local

Sorting Ceremony Dinner: A Magical Holiday Feast
Begins 6:30pm
Glazer Children’s Museum
Enjoy a magical holiday feast and come dressed to impress as your favorite witch, wizard, or fantastic beast! Enter through Platform 9 3/4, get sorted into your Hogwarts House, feast on a banquet fit for a wizard, and toast to the evening with a tasty butter beer! Sorting Ceremony Dinner

Jingle Ball
Begins 7pm
Amalie Arena
The season’s biggest annual music event, capturing the holiday spirit of the iHeartRadio app. This year’s lineup of all-star performers will include: Zedd, Nick Jonas, Charlie Puth, Camila Cabello, Liam Payne, All Time Low, Why Don’t We, and more. This holiday pop show always provides a bevy of hits that will keep you moving and singing along! Jingle Ball

It’s A Wonderful Life in the Park
Begins 7:30pm
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
It’s a Wonderful Life will be presented as a free community screening as part of the Tampa Downtown Partnership’s Winter Village event. Lawn seating is first-come, first-served, so please don’t forget your blankets or folding lawn chairs. Refreshments will be available for sale from Tampa Theatre and a variety of other Winter Village vendors. It’s A Wonderful Life in the Park

Avenue Q – The Return
Begins 8pm
Stageworks Theatre
A laugh-out-loud musical that tells the timeless story of a recent college grad named Princeton who moves into a shabby New York apartment all the way out on Avenue Q. There, he meets Kate and a handful of other colorful types who help him finally discover his purpose in life. Avenue Q – The Return

Sunday, December 17

Hot Chocolate 15K/5K
Begins 7am
Tampa Convention Center
Join the movement that’s taken over the racing world! Pick up your packet, which includes a race day bib and goodie bag, and have some delicious chocolate. Then get ready to run in the 5K or 15K running events! Hot Chocolate 15K/5K

Victorian Christmas Stroll
10am to 8pm
Henry B. Plant Museum
Experience the extravagance and grandeur of a Victorian Christmas at the former 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel. Decorations include vintage fashions, antique toys, locally sourced cigar boxes, and fanciful ornaments. Complimentary cider and cookies will be served on the veranda while holiday music floats through the air. Victorian Christmas Stroll

Tea With Santa & Mrs. Claus
Begins 11am
Oxford Exchange
Join the Clauses for a midday gathering and a cup of tea. Have fun decorating Christmas cookies and enjoying light fare along with your tea. Santa will be available for pictures, so bring a camera to take your own holiday snapshot. This event is a great way to celebrate the season and spend some time with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Tea With Santa & Mrs. Claus

Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
Noon to 9pm
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Celebrate the holiday season in Downtown Tampa at the Winter Village presented by USAmeriBank and brought to you by Tampa Downtown Partnership. The park will be transformed with the sights, sounds and activities of the holidays for children and adults of all ages. Skate around at the outdoor ice rink or get some gift shopping done at the Holiday Market. 2017-2018 Winter Village

Love Never Dies
Shows at 2pm and 7:30pm
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s spellbinding sequel to The Phantom of the Opera. 10 years after his disappearance from the Paris Opera House, the Phantom has escaped to New York. In this new world, he has finally found a place for his music to soar, but he has never stopped yearning for his one true love. Don’t miss this magnificent continuation of one of the world’s greatest love stories as it makes its premiere in Tampa. Love Never Dies

Winter Village Express
3pm to 8pm
Whiting Station and Centro Ybor
Operated by the TECO Line Streetcar System, the Winter Village Express offers a holiday experience aboard a holiday-themed Streetcar. Hop on at Centro Ybor or Whiting Station and enjoy treats, music and fun as you travel. A quick walk along the Tampa Riverwalk brings you to Winter Village. Winter Village Express

Avenue Q – The Return
Begins 3pm
Stageworks Theatre
A laugh-out-loud musical that tells the timeless story of a recent college grad named Princeton who moves into a shabby New York apartment all the way out on Avenue Q. There, he meets Kate and a handful of other colorful types who help him finally discover his purpose in life. Avenue Q – The Return

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve
Begins 3pm
Amalie Arena
This show will be a celebration of the art and accomplishments of the lauded group’s late member, Paul O’Neill, and his inimitable creation, which he dubbed “Rock Theater.” Prior to his untimely passing, O’Neill worked tirelessly with his close-knit team preparing an exciting new take on this show. Fans will experience this exciting stage spectacle, including new awe-inspiring effects and staging, certain to make the story come to life! Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Yoga in the Park
Begins 5pm
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
In operation since 2010 and brought to you by Tampa Downtown Partnership, Yoga in the Park is a free riverside yoga session led by an instructor from Yoga Downtown Tampa. Yoga in the Park

Nightlife & Music

Beyond This Weekend - Upcoming Events

Fireworks at Cotanchobee Park

Sunday, December 31
Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park
Ring in the New Year with this free firework display. With the support of Channelside and the City of Tampa, the Friends of the Riverwalk organization has arranged this family-friendly, alcohol-free firework viewing. The fireworks show will begin at midnight and is expected to be the largest fireworks display in Tampa Bay! Fireworks at Cotanchobee Park

Activities on the Water

Yacht Starship Captain Larry’s Water Taxi eBoats Tampa
Olde World Sailing Line Urban Kai Paddleboarding American Victory Ship
FL Aquarium’s Wild Dolphin Cruise Tampa Bay Fun Boat
Riverwalk Boating Company Pirate Water Taxi Kraken Cycle Boats

Arts & Culture Spotlight

Amalie Arena
Katy Perry – December 15
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Ottawa Senators – December 21
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Minnesota Wild – December 23
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Montreal Canadiens – December 28
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Philadelphia Flyers – December 29
Jim Gaffigan – December 31
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Carolina Hurricanes – January 9
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Calgary Flames – January 11
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Las Vegas Golden Knights – January 18
US 103.5’s Throwdown by the Bay – January 20
Tampa Bay Lightning vs San Jose Sharks – February 8
Billy Joel – February 9
Tampa Bay Lightning vs LA Kings – February 10
Andrea Bocelli – February 14
Tampa Bay vs Detroit Red Wings – February 15
Tampa Bay Lightning vs New Jersey Devils – February 17
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Toronto Maple Leafs  – February 26
Tampa Bay Lightning vs Buffalo Sabres – February 28

Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
By the Yard, Cirkut Camera Photography – Through December 31
Under the Cuban Sun – Through December 31
Photograph 101: January 3 to 24
Composition Principles: From Basics to Advanced – January 4 to 18
iPhoneography – January 14

Glazer Children’s Museum
Make it Monday – Weekly 
Toddler Tuesday – Weekly 
Worldly Wednesday – Weekly
Tinker and Tech Thursday – Weekly
Fun Fridays – Weekly
Gingerbread Village Cardboard Challenge – Through December 23
Sorting Ceremony Dinner: A Magical Holiday Feast – December 16
Closed for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day – December 24 and 25
Winter Maker Workshops – December 27 to 29
Downtown Countdown – December 31
Check the Museum’s website for a full list of weekday programming.

Henry B. Plant Museum
First Fridays – First Friday of the Month
Menus: The Epicurean Experience – Through December 23

Jobsite Theater
The Tempest – January 19 to February 18
Man in Snow – March 19 to April 1
1984 – April 27 to May 20
Dancing at Lughnasa – June 15 to July 8

The John F. Germany Public Library
Walk-In Tech Help – Wednesdays
Toddler Time – Wednesdays
Crafternoon – Thursdays
Baby Sign – Thursdays
Come Write In: Flash Fiction – December 16
Collage Art for Adults – December 17
Holiday Early Closings – December 18 to 28
Movies @ the Library: Ghost in the Shell – December 22
Closed for Holidays – December 23 to 26

Patel Conservatory
Private Lesson Recitals – December 16
Disney’s The Aristocats Kids – February 15 to 18
Peter Pan, Jr. – April 26 to 29

Stageworks Theatre
The Speak! Tank: Spoken Word Sundays – First Sunday of every month
Christ Fellowship – Wednesdays
Avenue Q – The Return – Through December 23
Corey Van Valin – Redefining Magic – January 7
Keely and Du – January 12 to 21
The Got Jokes? Improv Experience – February 3
brownsville song (b-side for tray) – February 8 to 25

Straz Center for the Performing Arts
Love Never Dies – Through December 17
Ben Haggard – December 15
The Florida Orchestra – Holiday Pops – December 15
Private Lesson Recitals – December 16
The Grahams – December 18
Next Generation Ballet’s Nutcracker – December 21 to 23
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets – In Concert – December 28 to 30
School of Rock – January 2 to 7
Classical WSMR presents The Florida Orchestra featuring Jahja Ling conducting Beethoven and Sibellus  – January 5
Forever Plaid – January 12 to March 11
The Florida Orchestra – Rodgers & Hammerstein – January 12
Stars of Today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow Youth America Grand Prix Gala – January 13
The Sibling Rivalry Tour featuring Hannah Wicklund & The Steppin Stones and The High Divers – January 15

Tampa Bay History Center
Walk Tampa: Tampa Bay Back History Tour – December 30

Tampa Museum of Art
The Classical World: Selections from the Permanent Collection – Ongoing
The Classical World in Focus: Animals in Ancient Art – Ongoing
Monday Meditation at the Museum – Mondays
Art on the House – Fridays
Art Spot – Saturdays
Mernet Larsen: Getting Measured, 1957-2017 – Through February 11
Made in Tampa: From the 1970s to Now – Through April 1
Claudia Ryan and Rob Tarbell: Skyway Curators’ Choice – Through April 1
Elisabeth Condon and Bruce Marsh: Skyway Audience Choice – Through April 1
Thirty on Thursday – December 14
Tiny Masters – December 20

Tampa Theatre
Elf – December 15 (Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park)
It’s A Wonderful Life – December 16 (Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park)
NYE Wrap Party 2017 – December 31 (Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park)
Darlene Love – January 18
In the Mood – February 3
Iliza Shlesinger Live – February 17
Wayne’s World – March 1
Winefest 2017: Wine’s World – March 2
Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live – April 5

Outside is In - Public Space

First Wednesday, 11am to 2pm at Lykes Gaslight Square Park.
Rock the Park
First Thursday, 6:30pm to 9pm at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.
– Free Weekly Community Fitness Classes at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park –
Powered by Athleta
U-JAM Fitness – Monday, 6pm to 7pm
Zumba in the Park  – Tuesday, 6pm to 7pm
Bamboozle Fit Club Boot Camp – Wednesday, 6pm to 7pm
Yoga in the Park – Sunday, 5pm to 6pm
– Free Seasonal Programs –
Do the Local Motion – First and third Friday, noon to 1pm (October to May). Walking tours take off from Poe Plaza, Jackson and Franklin streets.

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 Downtown After Hours –  Downtown After Hours is a weekly arts and entertainment guide to help you plan your upcoming weekend. Published every Thursday, it provides information on outdoor events, museum exhibits, live performances, movies and more! Subscribe to receive this weekly newsletter.

 

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