Will I need a jacket in Tampa in December?

Yes — average lows hit about 54°F, so plan on a light jacket or cardigan for mornings and evenings.

What shoes work best in Tampa?

The Riverwalk holiday boat parade is a must-see, but the water breeze makes it feel colder than 54°F. See our full shoe picks for December: /best-shoes-for/tampa/december

What to Pack for Tampa in December — 2026 Packing List

0 of 10 packed

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

Fleece PulloverEssential
Perfect for 54°F night walks to see the holiday lights on the Riverwalk.
Dark JeansEssential
Versatile for 73°F days and warm enough for 54°F evening hockey games.
Layered TeesEssential
Helps you adjust as the temperature moves between 54°F and 73°F.
Closed-Toe ShoesEssential
Keep your feet warm as the 54°F evening air settles over the city.
Leather SneakersEssential
Provide comfort and style for 73°F daytime shopping at International Plaza.
Polarized SunglassesEssential
The winter sun is lower in the sky, creating more glare on 73°F days.

Clothing

Fleece PulloverEssential
Perfect for 54°F night walks to see the holiday lights on the Riverwalk.
Dark JeansEssential
Versatile for 73°F days and warm enough for 54°F evening hockey games.
Layered TeesEssential
Helps you adjust as the temperature moves between 54°F and 73°F.
Casual BlazerRecommended
Ideal for upscale holiday dinners in the 73°F Tampa climate.

Footwear

Closed-Toe ShoesEssential
Keep your feet warm as the 54°F evening air settles over the city.
Leather SneakersEssential
Provide comfort and style for 73°F daytime shopping at International Plaza.
Dressy BootsRecommended
A solid choice for the uneven cobblestones of Ybor City during 54°F nights.

Accessories

Polarized SunglassesEssential
The winter sun is lower in the sky, creating more glare on 73°F days.
Knit HatRecommended
Rarely needed during the 73°F day, but cozy for the 54°F wind on the water.
Warm SocksRecommended
Crucial for staying comfortable during outdoor holiday festivals in 54°F weather.

Local tips for Tampa in December

Amalie Arena is kept very cold for Tampa Bay Lightning games; even if it's 73°F outside, bring a jacket.

The Riverwalk holiday boat parade is a must-see, but the water breeze makes it feel colder than 54°F.

Expect 6 days of rain, usually as part of quick-moving cold fronts that bring the 54°F air.

FAQ — Tampa in December

Yes — average lows hit about 54°F, so plan on a light jacket or cardigan for mornings and evenings.
Expect 6 days of rain, usually as part of quick-moving cold fronts that bring the 54°F air.
The Riverwalk holiday boat parade is a must-see, but the water breeze makes it feel colder than 54°F. See our full shoe picks for December: full shoe guide →

More tools for Tampa in December

Best shoes

Shoe picks for December →

Waterproof, breathable, insulated — matched to the month.

Pack or skip

Umbrella? Winter coat? Sunscreen? →

Item-by-item verdict for December.

Comfort check

Will I be cold or hot? →

Day and night temp bands for December.

Packing Calculator

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December Packing List for Tampa — What to Wear & Bring