With the holidays approaching quickly, our calendars are filling up with special activities, gift shopping, magic-making, and quality time beside the ones we love. What a “magical holiday outing” looks like depends entirely on your current season of life. If you have a newborn or toddlers, you might just need a cozy drive-through light display where the kiddos can stay buckled in their car seats while taking in the glow. If you have older kids, you might be ready to explore Christmas markets, historic cavern tours, or holiday concerts across Alabama. You might be looking to plan a memorable, festive date night with your significant other. No matter your stage of life or interest, I’ve rounded up some of the very best holiday events in and around Birmingham to make this season bright.
Great for All Ages
Glow Wild at the Birmingham Zoo | Birmingham, AL
- Dates: November 21 – January 3
- Details: Ticketed event (purchase online or at the gate)
This stunning nocturnal display features larger-than-life illuminated lantern sculptures scattered throughout the zoo. Guests of all ages will love walking through the glowing pathways, and taking a ride on the zoo train adds an extra touch of magic. It opens before Thanksgiving and runs into the New Year, giving you plenty of time to visit.
Cullman Christkindlmarkt | Cullman, AL
- Dates: November 19 – December 23
- Details: Free admission (select activities require tickets)
If you’re up for a short road trip north of Birmingham, don’t miss Alabama’s authentic German Christmas market. Browse artisan shops, listen to live music, and enjoy traditional German foods alongside classic holiday treats like hot chocolate. It makes a wonderful family day trip or a charming date night where you can explore historic downtown Cullman together. Be sure to check their website calendar for specific weekday and weekend operating hours.
The North Pole Express at Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum | Calera, AL
- Dates: Runs select dates beginning November 13
- Details: Ticketed event (tickets launch as early as July each year!)
Hop aboard a real train bound for the “North Pole” at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum. Experiences vary depending on your ticket class, but all offer festive family fun. Many families love wearing matching pajamas onboard just like in The Polar Express!
Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops | Leeds, AL
- Dates: Mid-November through December
- Details: Free advance reservation required for Santa visits
For a festive experience true to Alabama’s Southern roots, head over to Bass Pro Shops in Leeds. Kids can play games, craft at free activity tables, and get a complimentary photo with Santa in a rustic wonderland setting.
Drive-Through Christmas Light Displays
Looking at Christmas lights is one of the most timeless holiday traditions. Whether you’re packing up the kids in their cozy jammies or grabbing hot cocoa for a low-key date night, driving through an illuminated winter wonderland is always a hit.
Explore these local drive-through light experiences around the Birmingham area:
(Looking for more neighborhood displays? Check out the full Birmingham Mom Collective guide to local Christmas lights!)
Best for Big Kids, Teens and Adults
Classic Holiday Movies at The Alabama Theatre | Birmingham, AL
- Dates: Screenings begin December 11
Watching a holiday classic on the big screen inside the historic Alabama Theatre is a quintessential Birmingham tradition. The atmosphere is nostalgic and grand—complete with performances on the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ before the show. It’s a wonderful outing with older kids or a festive tradition to start with your significant other.
Christmas at the Cave at Majestic Caverns | Childersburg, AL
- Dates: November 15 – December 31 (Special Christmas celebrations on Dec 12 and 19)
For a unique holiday adventure, head underground! Majestic Caverns hosts a one-of-a-kind holiday celebration inside the cave featuring seasonal light shows, laser displays, and festive entertainment. Its unique elements make it especially appealing for upper elementary aged kiddos, middle schoolers, high schoolers, and adults.
Christmas at the Falls at Noccalula Falls Park | Gadsden, AL
- Dates: Begins November 13
Noccalula Falls transforms into a sparkling wonderland with millions of lights throughout the park. Take a ride on the park’s train, walk the illuminated trails, and enjoy breathtaking views of the lit waterfall.
Cozy Holiday Date Night Ideas
While many of the events above make fantastic date spots, these options are tailored specifically for an evening out on the town:
Trans-Siberian Orchestra at the BJCC | Birmingham, AL
- Date: December 16
If you love high-energy music, rock opera, and dramatic light shows, catching the Trans-Siberian Orchestra at the BJCC is an unforgettable date night. Check the BJCC box office for ticket tiers and show times.
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at the BJCC | Birmingham, AL
- Dates: December 15 – December 23
Nothing captures the elegance of the season quite like the ballet. Grab dinner downtown before enjoying Alabama Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker.
Festive Holiday Pop-Up Bars | Downtown Birmingham
Holiday pop-up bars have become a favorite tradition for couples and groups of friends. Local venues transform their interiors with wall-to-wall festive decor, themed cocktails, and holiday playlists.
- Miracle on 24th Street at Hold Your Horses
- Christmas on Morris Pop-Up Bar
Even More Holiday Events to Explore
- Candlelight Concerts by Fever
- 12 Nights of Santa at EarlyWorks Children’s Museum
- Santa Hat Stroll at Blazers Grill
What activities have you tried out with your family? Which activity was your favorite? What activity are you looking forward to this year? Comment below and let us know your experiences!
