Central Ave Turns Into a Holiday Block Party: Grand Central District Christmas Market 2025
If you have ever wished Central Ave would forget the cars for a night and turn into one giant holiday street party, the Grand Central District is making that wish real. On Friday, December 5th, 2025, the Grand Central District Christmas Market takes over the 2300 and 2400 blocks of Central Ave from 5 pm to 10 pm, transforming the whole stretch into a glowing mix of local makers, street food, music, and holiday energy.
More than 90 vendors will line the street with handcrafted gifts, artwork, seasonal décor, unique finds, and plenty of festive treats. It has that classic St. Pete vibe, creative, fun, a little chaotic, and full of community charm.
Where the Holiday Glow Happens
The market unfolds in the center of the Grand Central District, stretching across the 2300 and 2400 blocks of Central Ave. To make it fully walkable, 23rd, 24th and 25th Streets will close between Central Ave and 1st Ave South. The market runs from 5 pm to 10 pm on December 5th, creating a lively holiday corridor where you can wander, shop, snack, sip, and take in the night.
What to Expect on Central Ave
With more than ninety vendors, this event feels like a full scale holiday festival rather than a simple neighborhood market. You will find handcrafted gifts, candles, jewelry, art, seasonal décor, small batch goods, vintage treasures, and locally made treats. The atmosphere is festive and high energy, with something interesting around every corner.
Food trucks and pop ups add even more flavor, and holiday music drifts through the blocks. Surrounding businesses including cafés, breweries, restaurants, and galleries typically join in with specials or extended hours, making the entire district part of the experience.
Getting There Without the Stress
Parking during big events is always a conversation in St. Pete, so the district highlights several easy options. The Edge District Parking Garage at 1398 1st Ave N is one of the closest structured choices. Street parking is available in nearby neighborhoods like Palmetto Park and Historic Kenwood.
If you would rather skip parking altogether, ride the free Central Ave Trolley, hop on the SunRunner which stops near 22nd St, call a rideshare, or bike in from a surrounding area. Just make sure to watch for private lots and towing signage because the district is clear about that.
What to Know Before You Go
Portable and accessible restrooms will be available on 24th St North, between Central Ave and 1st Ave North. Businesses throughout the district will also have restrooms available for customers. Families and anyone planning to make a full night of it will appreciate having both options. Arriving early is helpful if you prefer to browse before the crowds pack the streets.
The Heart of the District on Full Display
This event is more than a holiday shopping night. It is a showcase of what makes the Grand Central District one of St. Pete’s most distinct neighborhoods. As a Florida Main Street and National Main Street community, the district focuses on preserving its historic storefronts, supporting independent businesses, and keeping its creative identity strong.
The Christmas Market brings all of that into the spotlight. With Central Ave closed to cars and filled with people, you get to experience the district exactly as locals love it. Walkable, social, colorful, and rooted in community pride. It is festive, yes, but it is also a reminder of how strong and connected the district feels when everyone shows up together.
Wrapping Up the Night
Whether you are going for the gifts, the food, the atmosphere, or simply to wander Central Ave under the lights, the Christmas Market delivers. Take your time exploring, stop into local shops and breweries, and enjoy the holiday energy the district brings out so well.