top of page

Don't miss Tampa's Holiday RiverFest with live music from Ernest, Uncle Kracker, Shaylen and more

  • Writer: Alastair Mac
    Alastair Mac
  • 3 hours ago
  • 2 min read
In addition to the live music, Tampa's Holiday RiverFest will feature the Lighted Boat Parade, Wiener Dog Races, Kids Zone, Ugly Sweater Contest, Festive Food & Drinks and more.

Don't miss Tampa's Holiday RiverFest with live music from  Ernest, Uncle Kracker, Shaylen & more

Holiday RiverFest is Tampa’s newest holiday tradition, bringing together live music, festive treats, and family-friendly fun on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park.


Save the date for an entire day of family fun including live music from world-renowned artists Ernest, Uncle Kracker, Shaylen and more!


In addition to the music, Holiday RiverFest will feature an entire day of family fun, including the lighted boat parade, wiener dog races, kids playground, 21+ Ugly Sweater Contest, VIP deck experiences, Lane of Giving for local charities, plus delicious food & drinks, and more.


The evening wil end with a holiday-themed drone show, and a huge fireworks display.


Tickets for the concert are on sale now, starting at $37.


Check out our 2025 Guide to all magical fun this Holiday Season in Orlando. From the theme parks, to the attractions, shopping malls and resorts, you'll be dazzled with holiday options throughout Central Florida.



Tampa's Holiday RiverFest is organized by local business owner John Santoro, owner of The Ritz Ybor, “This festival is my way of giving back — bringing all walks of life together to celebrate the season, support great causes, and make holiday memories that will last a lifetime. I believe Holiday RiverFest will grow into a cherished Tampa tradition for years to come.”


The inaugural event merges Santoro’s passion for entertainment and creativity into what promises to be an unforgettable holiday experience for families across the Tampa Bay area.



Don't miss Tampa's Holiday RiverFest with live music from  Ernest, Uncle Kracker, Shaylen & more

Holiday RiverFest supports ForHearts Worldwide, a Tampa-based nonprofit dedicated to providing life-saving cardiovascular devices, education, and care to underserved communities worldwide.


For over 40 years, ForHearts has delivered more than 18,000 pacemaker systems, collaborating with physicians, hospitals, and organizations to ensure access to treatment despite financial barriers. Their mission transforms lives, strengthens families, and uplifts communities globally.


Visit https://forhearts.org/ for more information.


Check out the latest entertainment news and things to do in Tampa Bay here!


Before attending any of the events listed on Gotta Go Orlando, you should contact the organizer or venue to confirm that the event is taking place as information, changes, and cancellations can occur.


Don't miss Tampa's Holiday RiverFest with live music from  Ernest, Uncle Kracker, Shaylen & more

Contact Us:

You can contact us here. To advertise with us, click here. To list your upcoming event, submit it here.


Newsletter:

Sign up for our newsletter and stay in the loop with all the latest news from Central Florida delivered daily to your mailbox.


Social Media:

Join the local conversation on X, Facebook, and Instagram, plus, for extended coverage, catch the latest on our YouTube channel.



Emma Walton News Producer

Emma Walton

News Producer

Shane Walton News Producer

Shane Walton

News Producer

Aly Mac News Editor

Alastair Mac

News Editor

bottom of page