Busch Gardens Tampa is ready to start another year of special events. 

Here’s what to look for during the 2012 season:

Iceploration, a show that combines world-class skaters, larger-than-life puppets, amazing costumes and original music, and animals, debuts in February.  Guests will explore the world as they go on an adventure with a preteen and his grandfather.

When the Animal Care Center opens this winter, visitors will get the opportunity to observe and even take part in the animal care experience.  The state-of-the-art facility will conduct many of its treatments in guests view, as well, creating a unique vantage point for animal lovers.

Jack Hanna returns to Busch Gardens on January 13.  The internationally known animal expert will host a day of wild animal shows, autograph signings and special meet and greets.  He will also join families for a special Serengeti Night Safari.

The Real Music Concert Series presents a variety of memorable acts every Wednesday through Saturday at the Stanleyville Theater January 18-March 24, 2012.  The line-up includes:

January 18-21: The Terry Myers Orchestra with The Swing Sisters
January 25-28: The Glenn Miller Orchestra with The Diamonds
February 1-4: Tony Orlando
February 8-11: Frankie Avalon
February 15-18: The Osmond Brothers
February 22-25: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
February 29 – March 3: The Ventures
March 7-10: Rita Coolidge
March 14-17: The Grass Roots
March 21-24: Marylin McCoo and Billy Davis Jr.

On Saturdays and Sundays from February 11-March 4, 2012, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay hosts Bands, Brew & BBQ.  Guests can sample delicious barbeque and brews and listen to some sizzling live performances, all included with the price of your Busch Gardens tickets.  This year’s line-up includes:

February 12: Lynyrd Skynyrd
February 19: Brett Michaels
February 26: 38 Special
March 4: REO Speedwagon

Viva La Musica turns the theme park into a fiesta every weekend from April 15-May 6.  Regional Latin cuisine, arts, crafts, dance and music will be available throughout the festival area.  The line-up for this event has not been announced yet.

Summer Nights returns to Busch Gardens June 9-August 12.  The fun summer event features the award-winning Kinetic show and plenty of other after-dark fun, including riding into the night on the park’s newest coaster – Cheetah Hunt.