Every December, Santa tours the neighborhoods of Westchase on a vintage fire truck, escorted by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department. Free for all residents.
Founded in 2005 by WCF creators Dan O’Brien and Ralph Caputo, Santa’s Pre-Flight Parade has become the most beloved holiday tradition in Westchase. Over seven magical hours, Santa visits every corner of the community.
Children line the streets with excitement, families gather on their lawns, and the entire community comes alive with the spirit of the season. Over 3,000 residents participate in this completely free celebration each year.
The parade also serves as a catalyst for giving—an annual toy drive collects new, unwrapped toys at collection points along the route, ensuring every child in the community experiences the magic of Christmas.
Times are approximate—listen for the sirens!
Santa begins his journey through the first neighborhoods of Westchase.
The parade makes its way along the main corridor of Westchase.
Central neighborhoods with extended stops for photos.
Evening magic as Santa tours southern neighborhoods under the lights.
Grand finale at the heart of Westchase.
Bring new, unwrapped toys to any collection point along the parade route. Your generosity ensures every child in our community experiences the magic of Christmas.
Most Needed Items: Educational toys, board games, sports equipment, art supplies, books (all ages), dolls and action figures, building blocks, gift cards for teens.
All donations are tax-deductible. Collection boxes available at all major parade stops.
Keep kids on sidewalks and lawns, safely away from the street as the fire truck passes.
Follow parking restrictions and don’t block driveways along the parade route.
Wear reflective clothing or carry flashlights for evening portions of the route.
The Santa Parade is made possible by dedicated volunteers. Join our team as a route marshal, hot chocolate station attendant, toy drive coordinator, or event photographer.
Sign Up to VolunteerFollow #WestchaseSantaParade on social media for updates and real-time tracking on event day.
Your support ensures no Tampa Bay family faces hardship alone. Every dollar goes directly to a family in crisis.
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