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2024 Guide to Finding Santa In Birmingham

Santa Claus is coming to Birmingham!  We’ve rounded up the best spots to catch him this holiday season, whether you’re looking for a cozy photo op, a festive event, or just a chance for the kids to share their wish lists. Get your cameras ready and mark your calendars—here’s your guide to all the magical places you can find Jolly Old St. Nick in and around Birmingham this year!

All is Bright LANE PARKE in Mountain Brook

Ring in the holidays at Lane Parke! Light the holiday tree and have a visit from Santa!
Attendees can enjoy drinks, pop-ups, DJ and kids’ activities to get everyone in the holiday spirit!

Thursday, November 21st 6pm – 8pm

Magic Of Lights at Alabama Adventure

Get FREE photos with Santa, see millions of lights, and enjoy Birmingham’s newest Christmas family tradition!
Opens for the season Friday, November 22nd – January 4th
Monday – Thursday 5:30- 9pm
Friday-Sundau 5:30m – 10pm

Pictures with Santa at the Riverchase Galleria

Santa’s helpers have been working hard decking the halls for you and your family, so don’t miss out on taking tree-mendous pics with St. Nick! November 14th through December 24th in the lower level in front of Von Maur.

Visit their website to reserve your spot

Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shop

Santa’s wonderland is back at Bass pro shop Now through December 24th. Free activities and giveaways. Reserve your spot online to see Santa and get a free 4 x 6 photo.

Reserve online here

Santa at the Summit

Santa is back at The Summit to spread holiday joy all season long. Visits and photos may be booked ahead of time.
Now through – December 24th

Book your Santa photo reservation here.

Santa Photography Hours:
November 8th – December 24th, 2022
Monday – Saturday:  11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday:  12:00 PM- 6:00 PM
(Christmas Eve Hours 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
*Sensory Hours available.

Breakfast with Santa at the Casual Pint at the Grove

A festive morning filled with delicious breakfast treats, craft beers (for the adults), and the chance to meet Santa himself!
Limited Seating. Private Event. RSVP Only

Reserve seating here

Supper with Santa at Helena Hollow

Select Dates
Santa is coming back to the Ho-Ho-Hollow and we can’t wait!

Prepare for a night full of activities including but not limited to:

* Lighted Hayride & Activity through the winter woodlands!
* Christmas craft making!
* S’mores around the fire!
* Live nativity scene including Joseph, Mary, baby Jesus and animals!
* Face painting!
* Convos with Santa, elves & Mrs. Clause!
* All the pictures your heart can stand…
* & last but not least, a yummy barbecue dinner!

Follow THIS LINK for more information on times and booking

Seeds Coffee

Fun, FREE event where you can enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and your kids or grandkids can write a letter to the North Pole and get their picture with Mr. & Mrs. Claus.

Saturday, December 17th, 10am – 1pm

Brocks Gap Brewing

Get a free photo, listen to live music, grab a hot chocolate for the kids and try out the Christmas ale!
There will be a bin to collect new, unwrapped toys for the Grace Klein holiday toy drive – please consider bringing a donation this day!*
December 14th 4pm – 8pm

All is Bright Vestavia City Center

Attendees will enjoy lots of Christmas activities, fun photo opportunities, live performances, and a visit with Santa (and the Grinch)
Thursday, December 5th, 6-9pm

Shops of Grand River

Photos with Santa! Visit with Santa at The Shops of Grand River.Location | The Christmas Tree beside Kay Jewelers. In the event of inclement weather  Location: Suite 680 (across from Birmingham Bargains)

Sunday, December 1st, 12pm – 4pm
Sunday, December, 8th 12pm – 4pm
Saturday, December, 14th 12pm – 4pm
Sunday, December 15th 12pm-4pm

Breakfast with Santa at the Birmingham Zoo

Gather your little elves and head to the Birmingham Zoo for a morning filled with holiday cheer at Breakfast with Santa! Enjoy a warm, delicious breakfast featuring French toast, eggs, sausage, fresh fruit, and more—all in a festive atmosphere that’s sure to make spirits bright.

Saturday, December 21st 8:30am -12pm
More info and purchase tickets here

Santa at the Princesses at Citywalk

Three hours of music,  food trucks, face painting, balloon art, photos with Santa and the Princesses and the Grinch. ALL FREE
Saturday, December 21st 10am – 1pm

The Coca Cola Caravan at the Birmingham Zoo

The Coca‑Cola Caravan is hitting the road to spread joy across the country. Stop by for a chance to snap a photo with Santa, enjoy an ice-cold Coca‑Cola, and get your very own personalized Coca‑Cola Zero Sugar can!

Wednesday, December 18th, Bass Pro Shop ,12pm – 3pm
Wednesday, December 18th – Lakeshore Wal Mart, 6pm – 8pm
Thursday, December 19th – Fresh Value Trussville, 12- 2:30pm
Thursday, December 19th – Piggly Wiggly Clay, 6pm – 8pm
Friday, December 20th- Cost Plus Calera, 12-2:30pm
Friday, December 20th-  Wal Mart Alabaster, 6pm – 8pm
Saturday, December 21st- Wal Mart Montclair, 12-2:30pm
Saturday, December 21st – Mi Pueblo Pelham, 6pm – 8pm
Sunday, December 22nd- Birmingham Zoo, 6pm – 8pm

Feeling GRINCHY? Check out this party at McWane!

McWane Science Center is proud to present an afternoon with Grinch! Hot chocolate, cookies, crafts, a dance party, and a photo opportunity with the Grinch!

Grinch’s Jingle Bell Party – Saturday, December 14th and Sunday, December 15th. Timed Entry beginning at 11:00am on Saturday and 12:00pm on Sunday and every hour until 2:00pm. The event ends at 3:00pm both days.

More info and tickets HERE

2024 Alabama Theatre Holiday Film

Get ready to experience holiday magic at the historic Alabama Theatre in downtown Birmingham! The beloved Holiday Film Series returns from December 13th to 22nd, featuring 22 screenings of your favorite Christmas classics. Step into this beautifully decorated venue, soak in the festive atmosphere, and enjoy a cherished tradition that brings families together year after year. Whether it’s your first visit or a seasonal tradition, it’s the perfect way to celebrate with timeless movies in a memorable setting. Check out the full lineup below!

Alabama Theatre decorated or christmas, Alabama Theatre lobby, holiday decorations

Friday, December 13 at 7 p.m.: White Christmas

Saturday, December 14 at 2 p.m.:  The Polar Express benefiting Kid One Transport

Saturday, December 14 at 7 p.m.: Elf

Sunday, December 15 at 2 p.m.: Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

Sunday, December 15 at 7 p.m.: It’s a Wonderful Life

Monday, December 16 at 7 p.m.: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Tuesday, December 17 at 7 p.m.: Home Alone

Wednesday, December 18 at 2 p.m.: Cartoon Matinee Triple Feature*

Wednesday, December 18 at 7 p.m.: The Santa Clause

Thursday, December 19 at 2 p.m.: Elf

Thursday, December 19 at 7 p.m.: Die Hard

Friday, December 20 at 2 p.m.: Home Alone

Friday, December 20 at 7 p.m: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Saturday, December 21 at 2 p.m.: A Christmas Story

Saturday, December 21 at 7 p.m.: Elf

Sunday, December 22 at 2 p.m.: White Christmas Sing-Along

Sunday, December 22 at 7 p.m.: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

*Cartoon Matinee Triple Feature includes “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”

Tickets for all movies are $15 each including sales tax and processing fees ($1 order fee will be added to the entire ticket order at checkout). Children ages two and younger are free of charge. Seating is general admission, first come, first served. Doors open 1 hour before showtime, and each screening will begin with a sing-along accompanied by the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ.

Visit the Alabama Theatre Website for more information or tickets

Join the Commanders Krewe at Birmingham Squadron Games!

Basketball season is here, and if you’re looking for an exciting way to get your family involved in the fun, check out the Commanders Krewe, presented by Children’s of Alabama! The Commanders Krewe is a brand-new program designed for kids who love basketball and want to be part of the action at Birmingham Squadron games this season.

With VIP opportunities and season-long access to Sunday games, being part of Commander’s Krewe provides a new way for kids to enjoy Squadron gamedays. To join, kids must be 12 years of age or younger — one child per purchase. This $20 package gives each child one complimentary ticket (with purchase of an adult ticket) into all Sunday home games at Legacy Arena. Membership also includes one draw-string bag, one t-shirt, and access to on-court VIP Warmup Experiences on the following dates:

Sunday, Nov. 17

Sunday, Jan. 26

Sunday, March 9

Additional tickets may be purchased for $15.

Why Join?
Not only is the Commanders Krewe a fantastic way for kids to enjoy the games, but it also helps foster a love for sports, teamwork, and community. With affordable membership and exclusive perks, it’s a great gift idea for the little sports enthusiasts in your life!

Mark your calendars, join the Krewe, and let your kids experience the excitement of Birmingham Squadron basketball up close!

For more information and to sign up, visit the official Birmingham Squadron Commanders Krewe page.

Partners in Kids Health: Safe Firearm Storage

Firearms are now the leading cause of death among children in the United States. This alarming fact is why experts are encouraging families to learn as much as they can about securing firearms safely and away from children. According to Besmartforkids.org, every year, nearly 360 children in the United States under the age of 18 gain access to a firearm and unintentionally shoot themselves or someone else.

Children’s of Alabama recently partnered with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office to discuss firearm safety and show families how to use one tool: Gun Locks.

Click on the video below for a demonstration of how to properly use gun locks.

 

Glow Wild is Back at the Birmingham Zoo!

Birmingham Zoo’s Glow Wild is back and it’s one of the city’s top holiday events you won’t want to miss! From November through January, your favorite zoo transforms into a magical wonderland of light, featuring:

Larger-Than-Life Animal Lanterns – Marvel at the stunning, glowing animal displays around every corner.

Acrobatic Shows – Catch jaw-dropping performances at 6:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. every night!

New Virtual Reality Experiences – Dive into exciting VR movies, perfect for kids and adults alike.

Red Diamond Express Train – All aboard for a festive ride through the glowing park!

Seasonal Food & Drinks – Warm up with delicious treats, including adult hot chocolate! 🍫

Plus, keep an eye out for special guests throughout the season.

Discount Nights: Save on select dates! Mark your calendar for savings on Nov. 22, 23, 24, and 27, as well as Jan. 17-20.

Pro Tip: Follow along on social media for updates on appearances and special events.

This is a can’t-miss experience for Birmingham families looking to make holiday memories!

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Zoo’s Website

 

 

Hyundai Hosts Child Safety Event with Children’s of Alabama

Mark your calendars for an important community event focused on child safety. Hyundai Motor America and Children’s of Alabama are teaming up to offer a free car seat safety check, and you won’t want to miss it!

🗓 When: Sunday, November 10, from 1 to 5 p.m.

📍 Where: The Summit Birmingham, 214 Summit Blvd. (Look for the event space near the movie theater)

🚗 Why You Should Attend: Did you know that car crashes are a leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 13? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, car seats save over 300 children under five each year. However, many parents are unknowingly using expired or improperly fitted car seats.

What to Expect:

  • Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians will be on-site to inspect your car seat for:
    • Expiration dates
    • Manufacturer recalls
    • Proper fit for your child
  • Free Car Seat Replacements: If your car seat doesn’t meet safety standards, you may qualify for a complimentary replacement (child must be present for inspection).

No Appointment Needed! This event is open to the public, and walk-ups are welcome. Just bring your little one and your car seat, and let the experts take care of the rest.

This is a fantastic opportunity to ensure your child’s car seat is safe and correctly installed, all while getting peace of mind before hitting the road. Spread the word to your mom friends, and let’s make sure every kid in Birmingham rides safely!

 

Rock and Roll Playhouse, Music of The Beatles

A family concert series where kids and parents rock out to the classics, has announced their upcoming show in Birmingham this weekend to celebrate the music of The Beatles. Shows are all ages and fun for the whole family!

Rock and Roll Playhouse’s live concert series features games, movement, stories and allows kids to “move, play and sing while listening to works from the classic-rock canon,” said the New York Times.

Music of The Beatles & More for Kids
Sunday, November 10th
Show at 12:00pm
Saturn
200 41st Street South
Birmingham, AL, 35222

Purchase tickets here

77th Annual National Veterans Day parade

The 77th Annual National Veterans Day Parade will take place on Monday, Nov. 11, at 1:00 p.m., following its traditional route through Downtown Birmingham. This year’s parade theme honors the 80th anniversary of D-Day, a pivotal moment in history.

“Each year, we aim to pay tribute to our nation’s Veterans who have made immense sacrifices for our freedom,” said Mark Ryan, president of the National Veterans Day Foundation. “We are excited to reach more Veterans than ever before, with live streaming services available for those who cannot attend in person.”

The parade will be live streamed to all Veterans Health Administrations (VA) in central and northern Alabama, ensuring that every Veteran can participate in this momentous celebration. The event will showcase a vibrant mix of Veterans service organizations, military units, and local supporters, featuring color guards, high school bands, drill teams, and veteran muscle car clubs. Hank the Tank, this year’s Riderless Horse, recently retired from Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C. The Riderless Horse, a poignant custom dating back to the 12th century, powerfully symbolizes and honors fallen warriors, marked by backward boots in the stirrups.

For those unable to attend, the parade will also be broadcast live on nationalveteransday.org.The livestream begins when the parade reaches the viewing stand by City Hall, around 1:30p.m.

Birmingham’s Annual National Veterans Day Parade commemorates the national holiday officially signed into legislation by President Eisenhower in 1954, making it the longest-running parade of its kind in the nation. For more information, please visit nationalveteransday.org.

 

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS #22

Join Bare Hands, Inc. in celebrating life at Día de los Muertos Número 22 presented by Rubio Law Firm on Saturday, Nov. 2 from 3 to 11 p.m. at Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark!

Bare Hands, Inc.’s Día de los Muertos festival is one of the most intricate Day of the Dead celebrations in the Southeast. From massive art installations, music and dance performances and beautiful costumes, to a parade procession with puppets, homemade memorial altars (ofrendas) and food trucks, Día de los Muertos Número 22 will be an event you do not want to miss!

Gates open at 3 p.m. and attendees will see performances by Premier de America Mariachi, San Francisco Xavier Ballet Folklórico, Danza Azteca Xochipilli and Flama Hidalguense.

Tickets are on sale now for $15 in advance. Children 12 years of age and younger are admitted free. Prices will increase to $20 at the gate and online starting Nov. 2.

Tickets purchased in advance are only valid for their respective date. Pets and coolers are not permitted.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit their website

Oak Mountain State Fair Returns this Fall

Corndogs, funnel cakes, cotton candy – oh my! The Oak Mountain State Fair is making its grand return this fall, bringing all the rides, food, and family-friendly fun you’ve been waiting for!

This year’s fair is packed with exciting attractions, tasty treats, and the best part? FREE parking every day! (Just a heads-up, the fair will be closed on Mondays) Kids 35″ and below get in free!

Mark your calendars and get ready for some unforgettable fall fun!

HOURS and ADMISSION:

Thursday, October 24
5:30PM until close
$10* admission
$30 Unlimited Ride Wristband

Friday, October 25
5:30PM until close
$10* admission
$35 Unlimited Ride Wristband

Saturday, October 26
1:00PM until close
$10* admission
$35 Unlimited Ride Wristband

Sunday, October 27
1:00PM until close
$10* admission
$35 Unlimited Ride Wristband

Tuesday, October 29 – Mommy Day!
Mom or Guardian buy one full price admission and receive the 2nd admission free!
Plus, receive a free ride wristband with the purchase of a child’s ride wristband.
(both must be present at the time of purchase)
5:30PM until close
$10* admission
$30 Unlimited Ride Wristband

Wednesday, October 30 – BOGO Day!
Buy one get one free on admission & ride wristbands!
(both persons must be present at the time of purchase)
5:30PM until close
$10* admission
$30 Unlimited Ride Wristband

Thursday, October 31 – Student Day!
Students receive $5.00 off admission & ride wristbands!
5:30PM until close
$10* admission
$30 Unlimited Ride Wristband

Friday, November 1
5:30PM until close
$10* admission
$35 Unlimited Ride Wristband

Saturday, November 2
1:00PM until close
$10* admission
$30 Unlimited Ride Wristband

Sunday, November 3
1:00PM until close
$10* admission
$30 Unlimited Ride Wristband

*Admission price does not include ride wristband or rides