It may feel like summer year round in Tampa, but our city always manages to infuse the downtown area with the spirit of the season. Beginning November 17 and through January 5, Curtis Hixon Park will be transformed into a magical Winter Village.

Residents consistently flock to the park in the winter for the outdoor ice rink. The rink will be open Monday through Thursday, from 4pm to 9pm; Fridays, from 4pm to 10pm; Saturdays, from 10am-10pm; Sundays from noon to 9pm. Tickets are $13 per person for an hour and a half of skating. Skate rentals are available on site.

For those interested in hosting a party on the ice rink, contact Rachel Radawec at rradawec@tampasdowntown.com or call: 813.221.3686. The Winter Village will offer so much more than skating this year.

Mise en Place will serve season snacks and holiday inspired beverages. The cafe will be open Monday through Thursday, 4 to 9pm; Fridays, 4pm to 10pm; Saturdays, 10am to 10pm; Sundays, noon to 9pm. Kahwa Coffee will be providing a rink side coffee bar, and Whatever Pops will be serving up holiday themed treats.

The Winter Village will also serve as a holiday shopping destination. 15 boutiques from local makers will comprise the shops at the village. Each shop is held in a PODS container in a market-style layout. The stores will offer clothes, handmade toys, jewelry, dog accessories and more. The shops will be open Thursdays through Sunday through December 24.

Shops at the village include: Dark Cycle Clothing, The Modern Paws, A Gift to Africa, and Chef Inspired Popcorn.

Parking is available at the William F. Poe Garage at 800 North Ashley Drive. There’s plenty of on street parking as well. Spots north of Kennedy Boulevard are free after 6pm on weekdays and all-day on weekends. For those with four-legged friends, the Winter Village is dog-friendly. Learn more on their official website.