December on the Gulf Coast isn't your typical snow-and-mittens affair, and honestly, we wouldn't have it any other way. From skydiving Santas to midnight marlin drops, this month's lineup proves that holiday cheer comes in many flavors.
Time to Trim That Tree
The Annual Trim-A-Tree at Foley Art Center continues through December 23rd, because apparently some of us are still procrastinating our holiday decorating. Lucky for you, local artists and craftsmen have been busy creating quality, unique ornaments, decorations, pottery, jewelry, wood carvings and fine artwork that'll make your tree Instagram-worthy. Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Light It Up
The City of Orange Beach Christmas Tree Lighting kicks off December 2nd at 5:30 p.m. on Main Street, featuring the usual suspects: twinkling lights, festive garland and enough cheer to make even the Grinch crack a smile. But here's where it gets interesting: they're adding a mesmerizing drone show and the dazzling SPECTRA Laser Light Experience. Santa's making an appearance too (photos available following his arrival), plus there's free hot chocolate! Free admission
Christmas Tree Lighting at The Wharf
Ice, Ice Baby
The Ice Skating Rink at The Wharf is serving up real ice through January 19th, because apparently we're committed to this whole "winter wonderland in 70-degree weather" thing. Located across from Portside on the corner of Main Street and Wharf Lane, it's your chance to glide, spin or gracefully face-plant into the holiday season. General admission is $15 (includes skate rental), or grab a combo pass with the Ferris wheel for $20. Pro tip: sign that e-waiver online before you arrive unless you enjoy waiting in line.
Park It Here
Christmas in the Park happens December 5th at Foley's Heritage Park starting at 6 p.m. It's got all the classics: Christmas carols, tree lighting, Santa visits and hot cocoa. Plus, they'll announce winners of the Christmas Tree Decorating Contest, which we're assuming involves some serious holiday competitive spirit.
Photo Credit: Visit Foley
Christmas in the Park
Santa
North Pole Shenanigans
The North Pole has set up shop in Downtown OWA from November 28th through December 23rd, offering free admission and one complimentary photo with the big guy himself (additional pictures available for purchase because even Santa has to make ends meet). The setup includes professional photos, Letters to Santa, festive crafts in Gingerbread Lane, Reindeer Games and a Gingerbread Bounce House. Mark your calendars for December 14th if your furry friend needs some Santa time during Santa Paws.
Santa Goes Extreme
Flora-Bama's Annual Santa Drop on December 6th proves that Gulf Coast Santa doesn't mess around. Starting at 11 a.m. with kids' crafts, games, live music and face painting, the main event happens at 12:30 p.m. when Santa literally skydives onto the beach. Yes, you read that right. After his dramatic entrance, he'll be available for lap-sitting and wish-granting in the Tent. Bring an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots and score a free drink card. And yes, there will be Bushwackers at the bar for the grown-ups.
Flora-Bama
All Aboard the Holiday Boat Train
The Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade sets sail December 13th from LuLu's Gulf Shores and Homeport Marina at dusk, heading to The Wharf in Orange Beach. It's free to watch from anywhere along the canal, but arrive early if you want a prime table at LuLu's for the festivities.
Christmas Day Potluck Perfection
Flora-Bama Christmas Potluck on December 25th starting at noon (serving begins at 1 p.m.) offers the ultimate "chosen family" holiday experience. They'll provide the turkey and ham, but bring a covered dish to share because that's what Christmas is actually about. Live music will soundtrack your holiday feast, and whether you've been naughty or nice, you're welcome at this beachside gathering.
Triple the New Year Fun
Can't wait until midnight to celebrate? LuLu's Noon Year's Eve on December 31st at 10 a.m. offers crafts, kid-safe fireworks (read: bubble wrap), sand castle contests and a beach ball drop when the clock strikes noon. Because sometimes the little ones have the right idea about not staying up past bedtime.
For the night owls, Reelin' in the New Year at The Wharf runs from 5 p.m. to midnight with live bands, family-friendly activities until 10 p.m., and the famous Kentucky Mist marlin drop countdown at midnight followed by fireworks powered by White Claw. Free admission and parking make this the perfect way to send off 2025 with style.
But if you're looking for something with a little more edge, Flora-Bama's New Year's Eve Bash is where the grown-ups go to really party. This 21+ only shindig features live music on all three stages, an all-you-can-eat dinner buffet from 6-11 p.m., a breakfast buffet starting at midnight (because someone's thinking ahead), free champagne, party favors and surprises all night long. Tickets are $75 through December 24th, then jump to $80 for the procrastinators buying between December 25th-31st. Fair warning: this event will sell out, so don't say we didn't tell you.
Be sure to check out our events calendar for more holiday fun!