Get ready to explore the best of the holiday season right in the heart of our Main Street Communities. Our guide is your go-to place for discovering amazing parades, beautiful decorations, and exciting local traditions. Join Main Street Alabama as we uncover the magical celebrations that make our towns sparkle and bring our communities together. Dive in and find out what wonderful experiences await this holiday season!
Holiday Parades and More
Get ready to dive deeper into the holiday fun that our Main Street Communities have to offer! We make it easy for you to find event times and places, and we’ll also share some special behind-the-scenes details. So grab your family and friends, get wrapped up warm, and come join in the holiday cheer.
Alexander City Christmas Parade
When: December 4, 2023, at 6:00 PM
Where: Starting on Comer Street, Alexander City. It will pass by Benjamin Russell High School, go up Church Street, and end at the bottom of the hill on Tallapoosa Street (AL 22).
What to Expect: Join us for a joyful Christmas Parade organized by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce. Come and see bands playing, dancers performing, and beautifully decorated floats passing by. Don’t miss the special appearance of Santa Claus at the end of the parade. Get there early to find a good spot to watch and enjoy.
Alexander City's Downtown Christmas
When: December 10, 2023, at 10 AM - 4 PM
Where: Downtown Alexander City
What to Expect: Main Street Alexander City is partnering with Alexander City Parks and Recreation for the 5th Annual Downtown Christmas! Enjoy Frosty’s Playground, Letters to Santa, Hot Chocolate, Pictures with Santa and Mrs Claus, Build An Ornament, The Polar Express, and so much more!
City of Anniston Christmas Parade
When: Tuesday, December 5th, at 6:30 PM
Where: Downtown Anniston
What to Expect: Don’t miss this fun and festive evening at the annual Downtown Anniston Christmas Parade. This year’s theme is "Christmas Around the World." See different holiday traditions come to life with colorful floats and performances.
Athens Limestone County Christmas Parade
When: Thursday, December 7, 2023, at 6 PM
Where: Downtown Athens
What to Expect: Join us for a bright and festive Athens Limestone County Christmas Parade organized by the Chamber. This year’s theme is "Bright Lights & Christmas Delights." Expect a wonderful show of dazzling lights and joyful holiday displays. Come and enjoy a magical evening full of holiday spirit and delightful sights!
Athens Sippin' Cider
When: December 9, 2023, 4 PM - 8 PM
Where: Downtown Athens
What to Expect: Enjoy Athens Main Street's 13th Annual Sippin’ Cider Festival as downtown merchants stay open late for shopping and dining. Sip on various ciders while you shop, roast marshmallows, visit with Santa, and vote for your favorite to help a merchant win the coveted Cider Cup.
Atmore Twilight Christmas Parade
When: Saturday, December 9th at 5:30 PM
Where: Atmore
What to Expect: Enjoy the annual Atmore Twilight Christmas Parade sponsored by the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce. This year’s enchanting theme is "Snow Globes." Experience a delightful evening of festive floats inspired by this magical holiday ornament.
Calera Christmas Parade
When: December 2, 2023, at 6 PM
Where: Downtown Calera, running down Highway 31 from the Intermediate School to City Hall.
What to Expect: A festive evening at the Calera Christmas Parade! Join the community in watching a joyful display of holiday floats and celebrations along the streets of downtown. Gather along Highway 31 and enjoy the holiday spirit with friends and family.
Centreville Christmas Parade
When: Friday, December 8, 2023, at 5:00 PM
Where: Starting at Brent Centreville Public Library, 20 Library St, Centreville, AL.
What to Expect: Get ready for the Centreville Christmas Parade. Join the community in celebrating the holiday season with a festive parade. Expect to see beautifully decorated floats, hear joyful holiday music, and feel the warmth of the community spirit. Come and enjoy a delightful evening full of holiday cheer!
Columbiana Christmas Parade
When: Friday, December 1st, festivities at 5:00 PM, parade at 7:00 PM.
Where: Old Mill Square Park and Main Street, Columbiana.
What to Expect: Join us for a fun-filled Christmas Parade in Columbiana! Starting at 5:00 PM, enjoy tasty food from trucks, live music, and snow in the park. The parade kicks off at 7:00 PM, filled with colorful floats and holiday cheer, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere for everyone!
Christmas in Old Mill Square Park
When: December 1, 2023, to January 5, 2024. (Special activities every Friday night in December)
Where: Old Mill Square Park, Columbiana.
What to Expect: Enjoy a magical "Christmas in the Park" with decorated live trees, snow machines, and special activities every Friday night. Explore the park turned into a beautiful Christmas Wonderland, filled with holiday cheer, decorative trees from local businesses, and snowy surprises. Food vendors and festive celebrations will be available for a delightful holiday experience.
Decatur Christmas Parade
When: December 4th, 2023
Where: Downtown Decatur
What to Expect: A festive Christmas parade featuring floats, bands, and a special appearance from Santa. This is a free event aimed at benefiting local charities.
Historic Decatur Christmas Tour
When: December 9, 2023
Where: Albany and Old Decatur Historic Districts, Decatur
What to Expect: Experience a festive self-guided Historic Decatur Christmas Tour, including beautifully decorated homes and churches. Enjoy the holiday decorations, live music, shopping, and refreshments available during this delightful event. Please note that there is an admission fee.
Demopolis Christmas on the River
When: First Saturday of December
Where: Demopolis, Alabama
What to Expect: Celebrate "Christmas on the River" in Demopolis, a beloved tradition since 1972. Enjoy a festive day filled with holiday spirit, recognized as a top attraction in the Southeastern United States. Be part of a special celebration that lights up the heart of the community and creates unforgettable holiday memories.
Elba Christmas Parade
When: December 4 at 6 PM
Where: Starts at Windham Lumber Company, ending at Tiger Town Park, Elba.
What to Expect: Join the community for the Elba Christmas Parade themed "A Hallmark Christmas." Enjoy festive floats and walking groups as they bring holiday cheer along the customary route. It will be a joyful celebration for the whole community.
Enterprise's Whoville Celebration
When: Saturday, Dec 2, 10 AM - 4 PM
Where: Downtown Enterprise
What to Expect: Whoville fun for the entire family in beautiful Downtown Enterprise! During the celebration, shop for gifts, get your WHO hair done, enter the Who Look-a-Like contest, photos with the Grinch, dine at local restaurants, and enjoy inflatables, train rides, food trucks, and live music.
Eufaula Christmas Parade
When: Thursday, December 7
Where: Downtown Eufaula, AL
What to Expect: Join the holiday fun at the Eufaula Christmas Parade! Come and enjoy watching the festive display and community spirit.
Florence Christmas Parade
When: December 7, 2023, 7:00 PM
Where: Downtown Florence, AL
What to Expect: Enjoy a festive parade showcasing "The Sights & Sounds of Christmas" in Florence's historic downtown organized by the Downtown Florence Alliance. A wonderful display of holiday spirit will fill the streets, with a lineup of various entries, creating a magical atmosphere for all attendees.
Foley Christmas Open House
When: Saturday, Dec. 9 at 11 AM - 2 PM
Where: Downtown Foley
What to Expect: Deals, Specials and Treats in participating businesses
Foley Christmas Parade
When: Saturday, Dec. 3 at 10 AM
Where: Downtown Foley, starting between the Foley Armory and the Foley Public Library
What to Expect: The Annual Foley Kiwanis Club Christmas Parade will bring holiday cheer to downtown Foley. Come enjoy the festive floats and displays as they follow the traditional route through the city, celebrating the season in a delightful community gathering.
Christmas in the Park Downtown Foley
When: December 1, 2023, 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Where: Heritage Park, 125 E. Laurel Ave.
What to Expect: A festive event featuring Christmas carols, a tree lighting ceremony, and a visit with Santa. Hot cocoa and snacks will be available, and awards for a Christmas Tree Decorating Contest will be presented.
Fort Payne Christmas Parade
When: December 8, 2023, 6:00 PM
Where: Downtown Fort Payne
What to Expect: Enjoy a festive Christmas parade led by the local soccer champions in the heart of Fort Payne. The event welcomes decorated floats from the community, adding to the holiday cheer.
Fort Payne Main Street Synthetic Ice Skating Rink
When: December 8-22, 2023, Mondays-Thursdays, 11 AM-5 PM, Fridays-Saturdays, 10 AM-6 PM, Sundays, 1 PM-5 PM
Where: Rotary Pavilion
Gadsden Christmas Parade
When: Saturday, December 9th, 5 PM
Where: Downtown Gadsden
What to Expect: A festive parade focused on community children. Enjoy the holiday displays while supporting local children’s organizations through the Kiwanis Club. A delightful and generous way to celebrate the season
Gadsden Christmas Tree Lighting & Boat Parade
When: Friday, December 8, 6 PM
Where: Gadsden City Hall
What to Expect: See the lighting of the beautiful Christmas tree on the lawn of City Hall at 6:00 pm when Mayor Craig Ford will hit the switch! The Coosa Boat Parade will follow immediately after.
Gadsden Snacks with Santa
When: Saturday, December 9, 10 AM - Noon
Where: 501 Broad Street
What to Expect: Join Downtown Gadsden, Inc. at Imagination Place for the annual Snacks with Santa! Santa Claus arrives at 10 am and will stay until noon. Children can visit with Santa while enjoying free snacks. Parents are welcome to take pictures. Visiting with Santa and the snacks are free thanks to Downtown Gadsden, Inc. Hardin Center members and those purchasing regular admission may stay and enjoy Let it Snow and Imagination Place.
Jasper Christmas Parade
When: Tuesday, December 6, 6:30 PM
Where: Downtown Jasper
What to Expect: A festive Christmas parade with road closures beginning at 5:00 p.m. For more details, contact the Chamber of Commerce of Walker County. Come and enjoy the holiday celebration!
Jasper Festival of Lights
When: Thursday, November 24th, starting at 5:30 PM
Where: Courthouse Square
What to Expect: The Jasper Main Street Festival of Lights event features a Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony to brighten up the holiday mood.
Lafayette Christmas Parade
When: Saturday, December 16th, 5:30 p.m
Where: The Square
What to Expect: A lively and festive atmosphere at the LaFayette Christmas Parade with colorful floats, holiday lights, music, and a visit from Santa Claus.
Lafayette Cookie Crawl
When: Saturday, December 16th, 4:00 p.m
Where: The Square
What to Expect: Enjoy the LaFayette Main Street Cookie Crawl where you can try various cookies. Pick up a participation card on Friday, December 15th, and join in the fun the next day, tasting different kinds of cookies.
Leeds Christmas Parade and Mistletoe on Main
When: 7:00 PM, Second Friday of December
Where: Leeds, AL
What to Expect: A free, organized Christmas parade and festive activities organized by Leeds Main Street.
Marion Christmas Parade
When: Saturday, December 9, 2023. Festivities start at 12:00 PM, and the parade begins at 5:00 PM.
Where: City of Marion, on the Square
What to Expect: A joyful event featuring food and fun, followed by a Christmas Parade.
Monroeville Christmas Parade
When: December 2, 10:00 AM
Where: Starts at the intersection of Main Street and South Alabama Ave, Historic Downtown Monroeville
What to Expect: A festive Christmas Parade presented by the Monroeville/Monroe County Chamber of Commerce.
Monroeville Pictures with Santa
When: December 2, 10:00 AM
Where: Otha Lee Biggs Ampitheatre
What to Expect: Don't miss out on pictures with Santa in Historic Downtown Monroeville! Santa will arrive after he finishes his ride in the Monroeville Christmas Parade which starts at 10 AM on December 2nd, 2023. Santa pictures will be immediately following the parade. Fee: $10 Questions, contact the Monroe County Museum at 251-575-7433.
Monroe County Museum Cookies with Santa
When: December 18, 9 AM
Where: Monroe County Museum, Monroeville
What to Expect: Monroe County Museum will be hosting Cookies with Santa and you are invited to join in the holiday fun! Free and open to the public! Contact Tracey at the museum at 251-575-7433 for more information.
Monroeville Main Street's Procrastinator's Party
When: December 21, 9 AM- 7 PM
Where: Downtown Monroeville
What to Expect: Monroeville Main Street will host our 6th Annual Procrastinator's Party and you will not want to miss out on the fun. Downtown Shops will be open early and late to help you knock those gift items off your list! Don't forget to stay for a fabulous meal or grab a delicious snack!
Opelika Christmas Parade
When: December 1, starting at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Starts at Opelika Chamber of Commerce, ends at Courthouse Square, Opelika
What to Expect: A festive parade with bands and floats, followed by snowy fun, food trucks, music, and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the Courthouse Square. Santa and special characters will also make appearances for photos and fun.
Opelika Christmas in a Railroad Town
When: December 8, 6 PM-9 PM
Where: Starts at Opelika Chamber of Commerce, ends at Courthouse Square, Opelika
What to Expect: Join us as we celebrate Opelika Christmas in a Railroad Town with Santa, crafts, shopping and live entertainment.
Oxford Festival of Lights
When: Starting November 17th (recurring event, check for specific times)
Where: Choccolocco Park, Oxford, Alabama
What to Expect: A drive-through light show transforming the park into a Winter Wonderland. A single entry fee per car. The festival also includes a Santa’s Village with activities, vendors, and outdoor skating.
Oxford Christmas on Main
When: Saturday, December 9, 2023, 2 PM-7PM
Where: Downtown Oxford
What to Expect: Enjoy the annual holiday open house, "Christmas on Main," featuring sales, promotions, horse and carriage strolls, live entertainment, movies at Simmons Park, and a special Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony.
Russellville Christmas Parade
When: Thursday, Dec. 7 at 6:30 PM
Where: Downtown Russellville
What to Expect: Experience the festive spirit of the season at the 2023 Russellville Christmas Parade. Come and enjoy the wonderful displays and the sense of community as various participants showcase their holiday spirit in this delightful event.
Scottsboro Christmas Parade
When: Saturday, December 9th
Where: Broad St. to Downtown Scottsboro, AL
What to Expect: A festive Christmas parade featuring a vibrant variety of floats, marching bands, and community groups, celebrating the holiday spirit as they traverse from Broad St. through downtown Scottsboro.
Scottsboro Main Street Jingle Bell Square
When: Saturday, December 2, 10 AM-6:30 PM
Where: Downtown Scottsboro
What to expect: Get ready for a fun-filled day at the 10th Annual Jingle Bell Square in beautiful Downtown Scottsboro!
South Huntsville Christmas Card Lane
When: Saturday, December 1-31, 7 AM-10 PM
Where: Ditto Landing
What to expect: Join us for the second year of Christmas Card Lane along the Tennessee River Greenway. Festive 4'x8' Christmas Cards designed by Huntsville's most creative companies, non-profits, families, and artists will line the mile-long Tennessee River Greenway.
Talladega Christmas on the Square
When: December 8-10, 2023
Where: The Square in Downtown Talladega
What to Expect: A free, three-day, family-friendly event filled with festive activities such as Santa's Workshop, holiday train rides, shopping, holiday movies at the Ritz Theatre, ice skating, food trucks, a giant snow globe, and photos with Santa. The Square will also be beautifully decorated to enhance the holiday experience. Click here for more information.
Wetumpka Night Parade
When: Saturday, December 9, 2023, 7:00 p.m.
Where: Downtown Wetumpka, near the Coosa River, Wetumpka
What to Expect: Experience a magical Night Parade during the cherished tradition of Christmas on the Coosa. The event brings a delightful blend of lights, music, and holiday spirit, creating a memorable celebration. As stars illuminate the sky above the Coosa River, join the community in witnessing the enchantment of this festive spectacle.
Main Street Communities
This holiday season, Main Street communities in Alabama are celebrating with wonderful parades and festivities. Each town adds its special touch, filling the streets with lights, music, and holiday cheer. There will be beautiful floats, marching bands, and groups from each community, creating a festive and united atmosphere. These events are a time for communities to come together, celebrate, and create happy memories. So, get ready to join in and celebrate the holidays in a magical way in Alabama’s Main Street communities!
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