Get Involved This Holiday Season: Volunteer and DIY Workshops in Tampa

The holiday season is about more than just shopping and celebrations—it’s also the perfect time to give back and embrace your creative side. Tampa offers plenty of opportunities to spread kindness through volunteering and to craft unique holiday gifts and decorations. Here’s how you can get involved this holiday season through volunteering and DIY workshops in Tampa.

Volunteer Opportunities

1. Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent

Metropolitan Ministries sets up its annual holiday tent to distribute food and toys to families in need. Volunteers are needed to sort donations, assemble holiday meal boxes, and assist with toy distribution.
Details:

• Dates: November through December
• Location: 905 North Governor Street, Tampa
• Sign-Up: metromin.org

2. Feeding Tampa Bay – Holiday Meal Prep

Join Feeding Tampa Bay’s efforts to combat hunger by volunteering to prepare and distribute holiday meals. This rewarding experience helps ensure every family can celebrate the season.
Details:

• Dates: Various dates in December
• Location: 4702 Transport Drive, Tampa
• Sign-Up: feedingtampabay.org

3. Toys for Tots Tampa Bay

Bring joy to children in need by helping Toys for Tots sort and distribute toys. You can also organize a toy drive within your community to maximize impact.
Details:

• Dates: December 1 – December 23
• Location: Multiple drop-off and distribution locations
• Sign-Up: toysfortots.org

4. The Humane Society of Tampa Bay – Holiday Pet Care

If you’re an animal lover, the Humane Society offers opportunities to help care for pets awaiting their forever homes. Volunteers can also assist with adoption events and fundraising during the holidays.
Details:

• Dates: Ongoing
• Location: 3607 North Armenia Avenue, Tampa
• Sign-Up: humanesocietytampa.org

5. Meals on Wheels Tampa – Holiday Delivery Drivers

Spread holiday cheer by delivering warm meals to seniors and homebound individuals. This opportunity is a wonderful way to connect with your community during the holidays.
Details:

• Dates: December 20 – 25
• Location: Various routes in Tampa
• Sign-Up: mowtampa.org

DIY Holiday Workshops

1. Wreath-Making at Armature Works

Create your own holiday wreath in this fun and festive workshop led by local floral experts. All materials are provided, and you’ll leave with a beautiful handmade decoration.
Details:

• Date: December 7
• Location: Armature Works
• Tickets: $50
• Sign-Up: armatureworks.com

2. Holiday Cookie Decorating at Datz

Perfect for families, this workshop teaches the art of decorating holiday cookies. Enjoy seasonal snacks and beverages while creating delicious treats to take home.
Details:

• Date: December 10
• Location: Datz Tampa
• Tickets: $25 per person
• Sign-Up: datztampa.com

3. Ornament Crafting at Sparkman Wharf

Design your own custom ornaments in this hands-on workshop. Great for adults and kids, it’s a creative way to make keepsakes for your tree or gifts for loved ones.
Details:

• Date: December 12
• Location: Sparkman Wharf
• Tickets: $15
• Sign-Up: sparkmanwharf.com

4. DIY Holiday Candle Making at Seventh Avenue Apothecary

Learn how to craft your own holiday-scented candles at this cozy workshop. Choose from festive scents like peppermint, cinnamon, and pine, and create a gift-ready masterpiece.
Details:

• Date: December 14
• Location: Seventh Avenue Apothecary
• Tickets: $40
• Sign-Up: seventhavenueapothecary.com

5. Gingerbread House Building at Hyde Park Village

Let your creativity run wild at this festive gingerbread house workshop. Ideal for families, this event is fun for kids and adults alike.
Details:

• Date: December 16
• Location: Hyde Park Village
• Tickets: $30 per kit
• Sign-Up: hydeparkvillage.com

Tips for Getting Involved

• Plan Ahead: Volunteer opportunities often fill up quickly, so sign up early to secure your spot.
• Bring a Friend: Volunteering or crafting with a buddy can make the experience even more rewarding.
• Give What You Can: If time is limited, consider donating toys, food, or funds to local organizations.

Whether you’re lending a helping hand to those in need or crafting unique gifts for your loved ones, Tampa offers countless ways to make this holiday season meaningful and memorable. Get involved, give back, and spread the holiday cheer!