The Tampa Bay Festival of Lights and Santa’s Village received high praise from Dennis Lee, a performer scheduled to appear at the Florida State Fair and Florida Strawberry Festival in 2025 for his 45th and 43rd years, respectively. Lee, who grew up in an orphanage, shared his heartfelt reflections on the meaning of the season after one of his performances at the festival.
A walking tour of the historical Hometown Village, part of the festival located at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, features holiday decorations courtesy of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association (FSGA). Attractions include Tiny the Tanker, whose mission is “inspiring the next generation of heroes,” and the popular Smitty’s hand-dipped buttermilk corn dogs.
Lee emphasized the joy he finds in witnessing the holiday spirit through children’s eyes: “It’s just so awesome to come out here and to see the festivities through the eyes of the children,” he said after his December 19th show. “When these kids come here to sing with you, you see the beauty of their love for the holidays and what it means to them.” He also engaged the adult audience, prompting them to share their favorite holiday memories, ranging from baking cookies with their mothers to receiving beloved pets. A young child, fresh from singing with Lee, simply stated that the best part of Christmas is “spending time with my family.”
The festival itself offers a diverse range of activities. Beyond the captivating drive-through light display (featuring over 1.5 million lights across a two-mile route), Santa’s Village provides a walk-through experience with camel rides, goat feeding, festival rides, craft making, gift shopping, photos with Santa and the Grinch, entertainment, and a variety of festive food and drinks. Vendors, such as Tammy and Matthew Hardwick of Twisted Toad candy shop, and their daughter Megan, offer a wide selection of unique items within the indoor exhibit space. Tammy described the event as “fun-sized and very family friendly,” attracting visitors from across the country and even internationally.
Lee’s personal journey adds a poignant layer to his involvement. He spoke of his upbringing in a Memphis orphanage, generously supported by Elvis Presley. Having worked as one of the first tour guides at Graceland, Lee discovered his passion for performance after his first appearance as a clown and mime. While he initially aspired to be a teacher and basketball coach, he realized that performance was “in his blood,” and he has been profoundly influenced by Presley’s music and philanthropy. He strives to connect with his audience, especially those with special needs, the elderly, and the disabled, supporting organizations like New Horizons Group Homes.
Reflecting on his work, Lee stated, “I try. I could do more. We all could do more. But when you do it and you’re in the moment, there’s nothing more gratifying.” Summing up the spirit of the festival, he quipped, “If you’re not in the Christmas spirit upon arrival, you’ll leave in the Christmas spirit, and you’ll go ‘ho-ho-ho’ wherever you go.” For more information on the Tampa Bay Festival of Lights and Santa’s Village, visit www.hillsboroughcountyfair.com/. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Road, Dover, off Brandon Boulevard (State Road 60).