So many Holiday Happenin’s! 
December is here and there are a ton of ways to continue celebrating this holiday season! From Glow Wild to Christmas movies at The Alabama or Sidewalk Cinema, there’s plenty of festive fun to be had! Of course there will be holiday markets where you can support local artists and a ton of other ways to get into the spirit! We know December is hectic, and can be a little stressful, which is all the more reason to relax and have some fun at one of the incredible events listed below! 
#RUhappenin 

Events at Sidewalk Cinema
Ongoing
Cost: Free-$11
At: Sidewalk Cinema (map)
If you weren’t aware, Sidewalk Film Festival & Cinema, a 501c3, had a $25k pre-approved federal grant clawed back because of their dedication to inclusivity in their programing.  The best thing you can do to help is to check out what’s going on at Sidewalk Cinema this weekend and buy tickets to their events and concessions once you arrive! They host all kinds of events like karaoke, FREE Bad Movie Nights, Knitflix & Chill, Pajama Brunches, and fantastic films! Most of these events are either FREE or under $11 to attend. This Thursday Knitflix & Chill will feature “When Harry Met Sally.” The lobby is decked out for Christmas, so be sure to check it out! Click the link and support our friends at Sidewalk!
Click here for more info. 

Glow Wild 2025
Nov. 22-Jan 4, 5pm-9pm
Cost: $12-$22
At: Bham Zoo (map)
We attended the media night for Glow Wild and were blown away by the larger than life lanterns! This year, 80% of all of the displays are NEW for 2025! Get ready to see some cool light up animatronic animals. You see tigers, zebras, marine life, and even a few dinosaurs! They also have some Christmas themed lanterns and a very impressive Vulcan lantern! Be sure to get some cocoa and holiday treats and don’t forget to ride the train for a unique view of the light displays. This event is great for a family outing and makes for some incredible photos! 
Click here for more info.

Lights of Noel
Now-Jan 4th, 5pm-12am
Cost: $25+ per car
At: Bham Race Course (map)
Lights of Noel is the largest drive-thru holiday light show in the State of Alabama! Don’t worry about fighting the cold. You can enjoy this dazzling display from the comfort of your warm vehicle! (This is also great for kids in car seats. No strollers needed!) Drive through a bright display of animatronics and twinkling lights! Tickets start at just $25 per car load Monday-Thursdays and $35 on weekends.  Don’t miss out! 
Click here for more info.

Miracle on 24th Street
Now-Christmas, 3pm-12am
Cost: Free to attend
At: Hold Your Horses (map)
It’s back! Hold Your Horses is hosting Miracle on 24th Street, an immersive holiday experience! Come enjoy a holiday themed cocktail (or mocktail) while surrounded by inflatable decorations, presents hanging from the ceiling, and enough lights to make Clark Griswold jealous! This experience will be running throughout the holiday season, but gets more and more crowded the closer we get to Christmas. Head there this weekend and get some fun pics and a BIG dose of holiday cheer! 
Click here for more info.

All is Bright! 
Thursday, 6pm-8pm
Cost: FREE
At: Vestavia City Center (map)
Join in for the annual holiday celebration, All Is Bright, on Thursday, December 4th from 6–8 PM on the green space near Taco Mama at Vestavia City Center! Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, popcorn, and Cokes as we watch the holiday favorite Elf! Santa will also be making a special appearance during the event! This FREE event is open to everyone, just be sure to arrive early to grab a good seat. Bring a blanket or chair, and get ready for a fun night! 
Click here for more info.

 

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Improv
Thursday, 7pm
Cost: $10
At: Saturn (map)
Don’t miss this Christmastime improv show featuring Peppermint Patties, Middl epart, and Pigeons - presented by the funny folks at Faraway Theater! You never know what to expect, but we can guarantee you enjoy a lot of laughs! Get ready for an evening of holiday shenanigans! 
Click here for more info.

Holiday Spectacular
Dec. 4th-21st
Cost: $40+
At: Red Mountain Theatre (map)
Don’t miss this annual celebration of everything there is to love about the season, from chaotic joy to quiet warmth, all tied up with a big sparkly bow. Seventy-five performers take the stage for classic carols and modern music, plus new surprises every year! The first year we attended this show we were BLOWN AWAY by the talented kids and fun effects. Now it’s a yearly tradition with our friend group!  You’ll be transported to a holiday wonderland with music, singing, dancing, and more! 
Click here for more info.

News & Brews
Friday, 3pm-6pm
Cost: FREE
At: Bham District Brewing Co. (map)
Join WBHM for the final News & Brews of 2025 on Friday, Dec. 5, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Birmingham District Brewing Company! Celebrate with them as they mark WBHM’s 49th birthday, and wrap up the year with good conversation and great company! Connect with the WBHM team, meet fellow listeners, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon supporting a fantastic local brewery. Exclusive perk: It wouldn't be a birthday party without a gift! WBHM mugs and pint glasses from the vault will be available on-site as a thank you for those who make a donation of $49 or more at News & Brews! Make your contribution in-person and take home your keepsake that day.
Bring your friends, grab a pint, and be part of the celebration!
Click here for more info.

 

Ross Bridge Holiday Market
Friday, 4pm-8pm
Cost: FREE
At: Ross Bridge Market (map)
’Tis the season for Holiday Markets! Join in Friday, Dec. 5th (4–8PM) for the annual Ross Bridge Holiday Market where you can shop from local makers, stock up on Christmas goods, enjoy kids activities & live Christmas music, food trucks & so much more! Food Trucks include Uncle G’s Pizza, Eugene’s Hot Chicken,Wasabi Juan’s, and more!  Don’t miss out on the fun! 
Click here for more info.

Christmas Tree Lighting & Market
Friday, 5pm
Cost: FREE
At: Old Town Helena (map)
Celebrate the lighting of the Old Town Helena Christmas Tree this Friday night! The lighting will be at 6:30pm, but there will be a pop-up market for you to explore starting at 5pm. The program will include live music and will be a lot of fun! Then on Saturday, be sure to return for the Christmas Parade at 1pm! 
Click here for more info.

ASFA: Holiday Harmony
Friday, 7pm
Cost: $15
At: ASFA (map)
Don’t miss seeing these talented ASFA musicians gather on stage to celebrate the Holiday Season. Works will include Holiday Favorites performed by our combined ensembles, conducted by Dr. Janssen, Cathy Spence and Alexander Fokkens. Dr. DeSa and our ASFA pianists will bring joy to the season by performing heartwarming Holiday music before, during and after the show.
Click here for more info.

ETC: Holiday ‘Splosion! 
Friday & Saturday, 7:30pm
Cost: $15
At: Theatre Downtown (map)
Remember when the TV networks would give some star of the day a brightly lit Christmas wonderland and 18 guest stars for a spectacle known reverently as the Christmas Special? The ETC cast is bringing back this cheesy tradition of goofy sketches, holiday songs, and some visits from some unexpected (and possibly uninvited!) guests. Sit back and enjoy our salute to the variety shows of yore - and maybe even win a prize!
Click here for more info.

 

Krampus Photos
Saturday, 11am-5pm
Cost: $20 for digital & hard copy
At: Books Beans & Candles (map)
There are plenty of chances this season to get a picture with Santa, BUT this might be your only chance to get a photo with Krampus! These make for some hilarious Christmas Cards! For those who don’t know, Krampus is the creepy goat creature who “collects” naughty children each Christmas. If you’re looking for some non-traditional Christmas fun, this should be at the top of your list! 
Click here for more info.

CahaBAZAAR Holiday Market
Saturday, 12pm-5pm
Cost: FREE
At: Cahaba Brewing Co. (map)
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Join in for the CahaBAZAAR Holiday Market on Saturday, December 6th, 2025! Knock out your holiday shopping in one stop while supporting 150+ local artists and makers. Enjoy food trucks, craft beer, festive cocktails, coffee and free hot chocolate from Kyle's Cool Beans, free caricatures, live music, and plenty of holiday cheer, all in one place! FREE Admission | Family + Pet Friendly! And the SEC Championship will be playing in the tap room! 
Click here for more info.

Frosty Floats 
Saturday, 2pm-3pm
Cost: FREE
At: Hoover Library (map)
This one is for the kids! Catch a wintry cartoon, sip ice cream floats and enjoy other snowy activities! The Hoover Library always does such a great job with their events, so you’ll want to check this one out. The kids are going to love it! 
Click here for more info.

Vulcan: Holidays on the Mountain
Saturday, 4pm-8pm
Cost: $10
At: Vulcan Park & Museum (map)
Join Vulcan Park & Museum for a new tradition at Vulcan’s Holidays on the Mountain, debuting Saturday, December 6, from 4 PM to 8 PM, and experience a joyful celebration! Enjoy an evening filled with twinkle and cheer as you capture photos with Santa, dance to merry tunes spun by a DJ, sip complimentary hot cocoa, snack on sweet treats, shop with local vendors, partake in fun activities, and meet the beloved mascot “V!” As night settles over Red Mountain, guests will gather together to watch the Vulcan statue illuminate in a dazzling light show. Bring your friends and family, take in the sparkling city views, and create memories that will last for years to come!
Click here for more info.

Midnight Effect Before Christmas Dance Party
Saturday, 8pm-1:30am
Cost: $7
At: Saturn (map)
It might be cold outside but DJs Geisha, Maelstrom, and PanzerSoldat have you covered with all your dark dance favorites; VJ Katie Gaiser will provide live mixed visuals. Come welcome winter on the dance floor at Saturn! This is your chance to dress in your goth holiday best and dance the night away! Giveaways at midnight!
Click here for more info.

Adam Hawley: What Christmas Means to Me
Saturday, 8pm
Cost: $30
At: Workplay (map)
Jazz guitarist Adam Hawley will be performing Christmas favorites at Workplay this Saturday! He’ll be joined by saxophonist Ryon Shultz, who will be opening up the show! This will be a great way to get into the holiday spirit! Before enjoying this great night of jazz, be sure to stop by Lee’s Coffee, located inside of Workplay, and try one of their many holiday themed coffees and cocktails! 
Click here for more info.

Shop ‘til You POP!
Sunday, 10am-4pm
Cost: FREE
At: Theatre Downtown (map)
Mark your calendars for a Pop-Up with personality! Theatre Downtown will have a great selection of creative vendors! Get your holiday shopping done in style! This event is free to attend! Vendors include: Christopher Davis, Paul Cordes Wilm, Chad Moore, Delaine Derry Green, Michelle Branson, Walter Moore, Beau Gustafson, Brandon Goodwin, Donna Rutledge, Obie Travels, Nana Love, Melissa Jones, Wolfie Tango Foxtrot, Kim Cornett, Jacob Burnett, & Shaymirra Lawson! Shop local and support your local Bham artists! 
Click here for more info.

Family Hours at Up-Down
Sunday, 11am-4pm
Cost: FREE
At: Up-Down Arcade (map)
Once a month, Up Down Arcade (normally 21+) opens their doors for a Family Day! That’s right! You can introduce your kids to classic arcade games! Play TRON, Joust, Mortal Kombat, and multiplayer arcade games like X-Men or The Simpsons! Up-Down also has some of the top rated pinball machines of ALL TIME! And don’t forget to order some of their delicious pizza while you’re there!  Once the clock strikes 4pm, the arcade returns to its usual 21+ policy. *Anyone under 21 must be accompanied by a 21+ Adult during Family Hours.*
Click here for more info.

Trussville Holiday Stroll
Sunday, 1pm-4pm
Cost: FREE
At: The T.E.D. (map)
It’s time to celebrate the season with the annual Trussville Holiday Stroll! Gather your family and friends for a magical afternoon supporting local merchants and enjoying classic holiday cheer in the District.
What to Enjoy:
Photos with Santa: Capture those precious holiday memories!
Clydesdale Horse Carriage Rides: Enjoy a beautiful, festive ride.
Festive Outfit Contest: Dress in your holiday best for a chance to win a prize!
Christmas Carolers & Sing-Alongs: Enjoy live seasonal music and join in the fun.
Red Ticket Drawing: Win prizes from participating merchants!
Click here for more info.

 

The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert
Sunday, 2:30pm
Cost: $42
At: BJCC Concert Hall (map)
The ASO presents Disney’s The Muppet Christmas Carol in Concert featuring the complete film, with the orchestra score performed live to picture. The Muppets present Charles Dickens’ classic holiday tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit, the put-upon clerk of stingy Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine), and features many more of your favorite Muppet characters. This special holiday event is fun for the whole family!
Click here for more info.

A Very Electric Christmas 
Sunday, 4pm
Cost: $15+
At: Alys Stephens Center (map)
This event is SO COOL!!! 
Lightwire Theater’s A Very Electric Christmas is lighting up the season at UAB’s Alys Stephens Center with a heartwarming holiday adventure the whole family will love! Classic holiday hits are brought to life with Lightwire Theater’s dazzling blend of puppetry, dance, and cutting-edge electroluminescent technology, this visually stunning production delivers a message of hope, friendship, and family. Beloved by audiences worldwide and praised for their appearances on America’s Got Talent and Fake Off, Lightwire Theater creates an unforgettable holiday experience that will enchant kids and adults alike. Make A Very Electric Christmas part of your family’s holiday tradition!
Preshow Details: Enjoy holiday fun in the lobby with ArtPlay art activities, and a visit from Old Saint Nick will make your holidays warm and bright!
Click here for more info.