Westchase's Favorite Tradition

20 Years of Holiday Magic

Founded by WCF creators Dan O'Brien and Ralph Caputo in 2005, Santa's Pre-Flight Parade has become the most beloved holiday tradition in Westchase. Every December, Santa Claus himself tours the neighborhoods on a vintage fire truck, escorted by the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Department.

The parade winds through every corner of Westchase over seven magical hours — from the villages along Countryway Boulevard to Harbor Links, Radcliffe, The Greens, The Fords, Tree Tops, and The Bridges, ending at West Park Village Center.

Children line the streets with excitement, families gather on their lawns, and the entire community comes alive with the spirit of the season. It's more than a parade — it's the heart of Westchase's holiday season.

Event Highlights

Santa on a Vintage Fire Truck
Sheriff's Department Escort
Festive Holiday Music
Hot Chocolate Stations
Photo Ops with Santa
Annual Toy Drive
Free for All Residents
Route Schedule

2025 Parade Route

Track Santa's journey through Westchase. Times are approximate — listen for the sirens!

2:00 – 3:00 PM
Westchase Proper & Northern Villages
Santa begins his journey through the first neighborhoods of Westchase.
3:00 – 4:00 PM
Villages Along Countryway Boulevard
The parade makes its way along the main corridor of Westchase.
4:00 – 6:00 PM
Harbor Links, Radcliffe & The Greens
Santa visits the central neighborhoods with extended stops for photos.
6:00 – 8:00 PM
The Fords, Tree Tops & The Bridges
Evening magic as Santa tours the southern neighborhoods under the lights.
9:00 PM
Grand Finale at West Park Village Center
The parade's spectacular conclusion at the heart of Westchase.
Give Back

Annual Toy Drive

Bring new, unwrapped toys to any collection point along the parade route. All donations are tax-deductible.

Books & Education

Educational toys, books for all ages, building blocks, art supplies.

Games & Sports

Board games, sports equipment, dolls, action figures.

Teen Gifts

Gift cards for teens and age-appropriate presents for older children.

Safety

Tips for Parade Day

Watch Children

Keep kids on sidewalks and lawns, safely away from the street as the fire truck passes.

Park Safely

Follow parking restrictions and don't block driveways along the route.

Be Visible

Wear reflective clothing or carry flashlights after dark for evening portions.

Pet Safety

Keep pets indoors or securely leashed during parade times — sirens can startle animals.

Volunteer

Help Make the Magic Happen

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 Volunteer

Follow #WestchaseSantaParade on social media for updates