It’s beginning to look a LOT like Christmas!!!


The theme of this holiday season is “LOCAL!” From local Makers, to local Christmas parades and tree lightings, the Birmingham area offers multiple opportunities to engage with the community and share some Christmas cheer! NOTE: This week we have an entire section dedicated to the “ongoing” holiday events at the bottom of the post! BONUS EVENT!: Next week Amber and I will be hosting some of the Wacky Tacky Light Tours! (Dec.9-12) Look for that near the end of the post as well! We can’t wait to bust out our tacky sweaters for this event! **[#RUhappenin](https://www.instagram.com/happeninsintheham/)**
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Aldridge Gardens Gifts of Art 20194th Annual Gifts of Art
Thurs, Dec.5, 10am-7pm
Cost: FREE
At: Aldridge Gardens (map)

Enjoy a stress free, fun day of shopping! Just in time for the holiday season, the “Gifts of Art” holiday market will feature hand-selected Alabama artists offering reasonably priced, one-of-kind gifts of art. Original art pieces will include glass; ceramic; wood; metal; fabric; and more. Decorative. Functional. Wearable. Worldly. Southern and Alabama-inspired. Rain or shine, this indoor show takes place in the beauty and comfort of the Aldridge Gardens gallery in Hoover. Bring a friend, come on your lunch break, or in the evening. Free admission!
Click here for more info.


Crestwood Coat Drive6th Annual Crestwood Coat Drive
Thurs, Dec.5, 5-7:30pm
Cost: FREE
At: Shoppes of Crestwood (map)

In preparation for winter, please join the Crestwood neighborhood in collecting cold weather clothing items to benefit those in need at The Firehouse Shelter and Pathways. They call it a coat drive but they will take anything that will help keep people warm this winter - hats, coats, scarves, gloves, etc. This is such a great cause!
Click here for more info.


MAKEbhm Holiday MarketHoliday Makers Market & Open House
Thurs, Dec.5, 6-9pm
Cost: FREE
At: MAKEbhm (map)

It’s time again for the MAKEbhm Makers Market! See what goes on behind the scenes at MAKEbhm as you shop for unique gifts. Enjoy snacks and a festive atmosphere. You can also get a tour of Big Spoon Creamery! This is always a fun event to attend!
Click here for more info.


Homewood Christmas ParadeHomewood Christmas Parade and Star Lighting
Thurs, Dec.5, 6:30-8:30pm
Cost: FREE
At: Downtown Homewood (map)

Head to Homewood as they continue the tradition of lighting the historic Homewood Star at the top of 18th Street! It’s also the official beginning of the Downtown Homewood Christmas Parade! The Lighting of the Christmas Tree will immediately follow the parade at City Hall!
Click here for more info.


BMR Holiday Soiree6th Sometimes-Annual BMR Holiday Soiree
Thurs, Dec.5, 7-11:30pm
Cost: $25
At: Iron City (map)

We love the Birmingham Mountain Radio family and you probably do too! Here is a chance to celebrate with them for their “sometimes” annual Soiree! Pete Yorn, John Paul White, Devon Gilfillian and Wilderado will be playing all under one roof! Don't miss out on this event! Tickets are selling fast, so don’t wait until the last second!
Click here for more info.


KrampusnachtKrampusnacht at Sidewalk Cinema
Thurs, Dec.5, 7:30-10:30pm
Cost: FREE
At: Sidewalk Cinema (map)

Kids today have it easy. Way back when, naughty children didn’t just get a lump of coal they got snatched up by Krampus! There’s nothing like a creepy goat-man demon to keep you on the Nice list! Join the Sidewalk Cinema crew in the theater lobby to celebrate Krampus night - drink specials, screenings and antics! Lobby programming is always free!
Click here for more info.


Upstairs Comedy Series Billy Wayne Davis**Upstairs Comedy Series: Billy Wayne Davis Thurs, Dec.5, 8pm Cost: $12 adv./$15 door At: Avondale Brewing Upstairs ([map](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Avondale+Brewing+Company/@33.5245496,-86.7763599,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x88891a50d8f4abcf:0xb3a736f801cafe29!8m2!3d33.5245451!4d-86.7741712))** This is an event series to keep an eye on! From our friend and comedian Wes Van Horn comes the Upstairs Comedy Series! To kick things off, Billy Wayne Davis will take the stage in the upstairs of Avondale Brewing Co.. Davis has been on “Last Comic Standing,” “Conan,” and more. This venue has limited seating, so get your tickets early! We can’t wait to see who else will be featured in the coming months! **[Click here for more info.](https://avondalebrewing.com/events)**

FlameWorks Holiday Art ShowFlameWorks Holiday Art Show
Fri-Sun, Dec.6-8, 10am-4pm
Cost: FREE
At: FlameWorks Studio (map)

If you’re downtown this weekend don’t miss FlameWorks, a fantastic annual holiday art show and sale. Held in Kevin Irwin’s beautiful downtown Birmingham studio, this show has become a favorite among the exhibiting artists and guests alike. Known for the cozy atmosphere (hot cider, great snacks and twinkle lights), and a fun, eclectic group of artists, you’ll enjoy while shopping for handmade gifts and probably a treat for yourself as well.
Click here for more info.


BMA Art after 5 Holiday MerrythonArt After 5: Movie Merrython II
Fri, Dec.6, 5-9pm
Cost: FREE
At: Bham Museum of Art (map)

Tis the season, so the BMA team is back with their Movie Merrython: Part Deux! They are decking the halls with holiday crafts and activities— including some that could land you on the naughty list! Specialty cocktails will be available, but BYO holiday spirit. Don’t forget to vote ahead of time on which classic holiday flicks you want them to screen!
Click here for more info.


Seasick Records Holiday BashSeasick Records Holiday Bash
Fri, Dec.6, 6-9pm
Cost: FREE
At: Seasick Records (map)

Seasick Records is here to help you get in the holiday spirit! Enjoy free eggnog and cookies while DJ PJs (Paul Cordes Wilm) spins the most obscure of holiday jingles. Santa Nina will be coming down the chimney to take photos with all the good girls and boys. Our pals from Charm On 2nd will kick off their seasonal pop-up shop during the event! Chef Robby Melvin will be cooking some delicious food too! Don’t miss this holiday extravaganza!
Click here for more info.


Zoolight Safari Tree LightingZoo Light Safari Tree Lighting Ceremony
Fri, Dec.6, 6pm
Cost: $10 or FREE for Members
At: Bham Zoo (map)

Kick off the Zoolight Safari season with the lighting on the Birmingham Zoo’s Christmas tree! Santa will be making an appearance as well! Admission is just $10, but is FREE for Zoo Members! Kids go crazy over this event, so don’t let them miss out! There will be plenty of spots to take festive photos and you can purchase tickets for the train and carousel!
Click here for more info.


Club Duquette Holiday Get Down4th Anniversary Get Down + Holiday Happening
Fri, Dec.6, 7pm-Until…
Cost: FREE
At: Club Duquette (map)

It's the most legendary party of the year when Club Duquette celebrates their anniversary AND the holidays all in one! Sponsored by Levi's and Single Lock records, it's going to be THE BIGGEST PARTY THEY HAVE EVER THROWN! Duquette Johnston, playing his 2006 album, Etowah, in its entirety for the first time in over a decade! Standing Eight Count w/ Shaun Judah and Akil Pratt! Beats by Suaze to keep the party going in to the early AM! Art by AK Daves Hardeman, food by Encore Rouge, and drinks by: Cathead Vodka, Ghost Train Brewing Co., Harvest Roots Ferments mocktails! It’s FREE and open to the whole community!!!
Click here for more info.


Arc Stories: Tis the SeasonArc Stories: ‘Tis the Season
Fri, Dec.6, 7:30pm
Cost: $12
At: Avon Theater (map)

Some of the BEST and craziest stories happen during the holiday season! We all have a “remember the Christmas when….?,” stories. Come hear real people tell their stories of crazy antics or some heartwarming tales. This is such a great event and we strongly encourage you to check it out!
Click here for more info.


Taylor Hicks Sings Elton JohnTaylor Hicks Sings Elton John & Christmas Songs
Fri, Dec.6, 8pm
Cost: $30+
At: Lyric Theatre (map)

Taking the stage in the stunning Lyric Theatre, Taylor Hicks will be singing hits by Elton John as well as holiday favorites! This will make a great date night as Taylor uses his soulful tone to sing some of the best known songs from the 20th century! We always enjoy concerts in the Lyric as it is a symbol of Birmingham’s resurgence!
Click here for more info.


Saturn Holiday MarketSaturn Holiday Market
Sat, Dec.7, 10am-4pm
Cost: FREE
At: Saturn (map)

Our friends at Manitou Supply is expanding their vintage fair! The Saturn Holiday Market is sure to have the raddest vintage, art and handmade goods offered this season. Get gifts for your loved ones that they will actually enjoy! The event is FREE, so bring out the entire family!
Click here for more info.


Bluff Park Chirstmas ParadeBluff Park Christmas Parade
Sat, Dec.7, 10am
Cost: FREE
At: Shades Cliff Pool (map)

It’s the annual family-friendly Christmas parade in the Bluff Park community! The parade begins at 10am leaving from the Shades Cliff Park traveling across Cloudland to Lester to Clearview and back to Hawksbury before ending at Shades Cliff Park. Come watch the floats and enjoy this festive activity!
Click here for more info.


Tacky Christmas MarketTacky Christmas Market
Sat, Dec.7, 11am
(Tacky Sweater Contest 12pm!)
Cost: FREE
At: Bham District Brewing (map)

Wear your tackiest Christmas sweater and head over to The Battery! Birmingham District Brews is hosting a fun market full of some of our favorite local vendors! Get some fun plants from Botanica, or get a head start on your 2020 fitness goals with True40. There will be even more vendors on hand as well! At noon they will have the Tacky Sweater Contest, so don’t hold back!
Click here for more info.

A Puerto Rican ChristmasA Puerto Rican Christmas
Sat, Dec.7, 7pm-1am
Cost: $15
At: Miami Fusion Cafe (map)

Celebrate Christmas with some Puerto Rican flair! Head to Miami Fusion Cafe and enjoy some delicious dishes, a D.J., drinks, and more! Admission is just $15, but you can get a discount at the door if you bring a kids gift for the Angel Tree! This event will be filled with warm fellowship among friends! They've cook a whole hog!!! Don't miss out!
Click here for more info.

The Brown Sugar NutcrackerThe Brown Sugar Nutcracker
Sat, Dec.7, 7pm
Cost: $25+
At: Dorothy Jemison Day Theater (map)

Come and enjoy this cultural holiday tradition! The Brown Sugar Nutcracker follows Marissa as she inherits the family nutcracker at a party. A magical adventure ensues! This show is sure to lift your spirits and warm your hearts!
Click here for more info.

Woodlawn Holiday Street MarketWoodlawn Holiday Market
Sun, Dec.8, 12-4pm
Cost: FREE
At: Woodlawn 55th St. (map)

The last market of 2019 is THIS SUNDAY and it's a holiday market! This is a perfect time to come visit Woodlawn, buy gifts for your friends and family, AND SUPPORT LOCAL! Woodlawn Street Market is an urban street market in the heart of historic Woodlawn. Now in the 6th market season, patrons can expect merchants selling fresh produce, on-site prepared foods and unique goods. The market offers Birminghamians a gathering place – for taking in an amazing meal, enjoying live entertainment and picking up inspiring pieces.
Click here for more info.


A Merry British ChristmasA Merry British Christmas
Sun, Dec.8, 2pm
Cost: $30
At: Clubhouse on Highland (map)

Savour the flavor of royalty with a traditional English afternoon tea experience. Fine bone china teacups, tiered trays, scones, savories, and sweets. A Merry British Christmas begins with complimentary fizzie beverages to toast and celebrate the holidays. Hear and sing-a-long to classic Christmas carols. Pull Christmas crackers until they snap, crackle, and pop. Listen to The Queen’s Royal Christmas message. Eat, drink, and be merry! You’ll have a Happy Christmas time, indeed!
Click here for more info.


Vestavia Christmas ParadeVestavia Christmas Parade
Sun, Dec.8, 2-4pm
Cost: FREE
At: Vestavia (map)

Enjoy the city’s official parade followed by the Liberty Park Christmas Celebration with children’s activities, refreshments, music, pictures with Santa, and more! This will be fun for the entire family, so head on out and get in the Christmas Spirit!
Click here for more info.


Mountain Brook Christmas ParadeMountain Brook Holiday Parade
Sun, Dec.8, 3-4pm
Cost: FREE
At: Mountain Brook (map)

Santa Claus is coming to town! You can't miss one of Mountain Brook's favorite tradition! Watch the parade, attend a pop-up story time from The Emmet O'Neal Library under the Bromberg's tree, and then get a picture made afterwards with Santa at the Mountain Brook Magazine photo opp! The parade will start at Office Park and go through Mountain Brook Village on Cahaba Road. The parade will turn right on Culver Road and continue on Culver and Petticoat Lane back to Cahaba and then back to Office Park.
Click here for more info.


Twas the Night Before WinterTwas the Night Before Winter
Sun, Dec.8th/15th/22nd, 4-5pm
Cost: $12
At: Bham Zoo (map)

just before ZooLight Safari, join the Zoo for a holiday adventure! Listen to a new twist on one of your favorite tales and meet some animals from the pages of the storybook. You will also have a chance to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and make a holiday craft! This winter storytime happens only once a year and is designed for ages 3 to 8 years-old, however it will be fun for the whole family!
Click here for more info.


Magic City Holiday ParadeMagic City Holiday Parade
Sun, Dec.8, 4:30-6:30pm
Cost: FREE
At: 5th Ave. S (map)

Join the city of Birmingham on Dec.8 for the Magic City Holiday Parade! It begins at 4:30 p.m. downtown; a tree lighting will follow in Linn Park. Dancing with the Stars celeb, and veteran, Noah Galloway will be the parade marshal! We always look forward to the lighting of the Birmingham tree each year as it’s such a great community event!
Click here for more info.


Magic Of Lights at VulcanMagic of Lights: Vulcan Holiday Light Experience Premiere
Sun, Dec.8, 5-8pm
Cost: $6
At: Vulcan Park & Museum (map)

Kick off this festive tradition atop Red Mountain! This is a fantastic holiday light show that’s synced up to music as the Birmingham big guy becomes a beacon of holiday cheer! Guests will enjoy a 15-minute lively array of dancing lights choreographed to delightful holiday music. The Anvil, the museum store, will have extended hours until 9 p.m so you can do some holiday shopping! At the premiere, V will make an appearance dressed as Santa!
Click here for more info.


BONUS EVENT!

Wacky Tacky Lights TourWacky Tacky Light Tour!
Tues-Fri, Dec.9-12, 6-8pm
Cost: $35
At: Golden Age Wine (map)

A guided bus tour of the best of the worst of Birmingham's holiday lights. See Santa's Trailer Park, the Hanukkah House, Toomer's Corner, Darth Vader Christmas, Mooning Santa, and so much more! Buy individual tickets or book a party bus for your Christmas party for friends, clubs or business with us! Buses run every ten minutes from 6pm to 8pm for four nights. We (Happenin’s in the Ham) will be tour guides for some of the tours!!! It all benefits Fresh Air Family! Bring some friends, or a date, for this festive voyage around town! Check the site for available tour times, but book fast as they tend to sell out!
Click here for more info.


___ ##ONGOING HOLIDAY EVENTS!

Enchanted Forest / Now- / FREE / Pizitz Food Hall

#DecktheHam / Now-Dec.25 / FREE / Downtown Bham

Art Crawl at the Village / Now-Dec.24 / FREE / Brookwood Village

Brrrmigham Winter Adventure / Now-Jan.5 / $8+ / Railroad Park

Shadrack Christmas Wonderland / Now-Jan.5 / $25 per car / Bham Racecourse

ZooLight Safari / Dec.6-8 & 13-30 (closed Christmas) / $10 or FREE for Members! / Bham Zoo

Visit Santa at The Summit / Now-Dec.24 / Price Varies / The North Pole at Summit

Magic of Lights: Vulcan Holiday Lights Experience / Dec.8-23 / $8 / Vulcan Park & Museum


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