Wacky Tacky Light Tour

It’s time again for the Wacky Tacky Light Tour benefiting the Fresh Air Family!

The Wacky Tacky Light Tour fundraiser benefits Fresh Air Family’s Gross Out Camp Scholarship Fund. The summer 2023 season saw close to $50,000 in financial aid awarded to more than 650 children, allowing them to attend our award-winning summer camp.  Your tickets and generous donations buy these children a summer reprieve where they can focus on learning and being children.

WHEN:
December: 12th, 14th, 19th and 21st

WHAT:
A two-hour bus tour to the best-of the worst holiday lights

Tours start every 10 minutes from 6:00pm until 7:30pm. General seating and Private buses available!

Starting at “The J”  3960 Montclair Rd, Birmingham, AL

TICKET INFO:

Click here to select your date and time and to purchase tickets.

2023 Guide to Finding Santa in Birmingham

Santa Claus is coming to Birmingham!  We’ve mapped out the best spots to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus during this magical time of the year, so get your lists (and camera’s) ready, here’s where you can find Jolly Old St. Nick this holiday season!

WHERE TO FIND SANTA IN BIRMINGHAM

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 16th through December 24th in the lower level in front of Von Maur.

Visit their website to reserve your spot

Santa Cares at the Riverchase Galleria

Visit Santa in a sensory-friendly environment. Celebrate Santa Magic in an inclusive atmosphere. Exclusively for children & families with special needs. Reservations are required for this private photo experience. We’re collecting donations on behalf of Autism Speaks.

Santa Cares Day | December 3rd | 10:30am – 11:30am

Visit their website to reserve your spot.

Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shop

Santa’s wonderland is back at Bass pro shop November 5th through December 24th. 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.
November 17th – December 24th

Book your Santa photo reservation here.

Santa Photography Hours:
November 18th – December 24th, 2022
Monday – Saturday:  11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday:  12:00 PM- 6:00 PM
(Christmas Eve Hours 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM)

Supper with Santa at Helena Hollow

November 24th thru December 10th

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 2nd, 10am – 1pm

CahaBAZAAR at Cahaba Brewing

Santa will be arriving in an antique fire truck at 1 PM. Then he’ll head over to the Barrel Room for photos until 3 PM.
Plus, Buddy the Elf will be around to spread some holiday cheer! Enjoy food trucks and the market from 12pm – 5pm

Saturday, December 2nd, 12pm – 5pm

FREE Pictures with Santa and Friends at ATA Martial Arts

There will be hot cocoa, candy canes, and, of course, pictures with Santa.

Info for this event:
-Open to the community
-Must RSVP (only 1 time spot needed for a family. Please DO NOT RSVP more than once per family)
-Bring your own camera
-Come prepared to have a BLAST!

Sunday, December 3rd, 10am – 2pm

Santa at Learning Express

Bring your camera and see Santa!
Saturday, December 9th from 11AM-1PM!

LAH Sotheby’s in Hoover

Free Santa Meet and Greet!

LAH Hoover Office’s annual Santa Meet & Greet! Share your Christmas list with St. Nick!
There will be drinks, snacks, games and prizes from many local shops. There are more than $1,000 in giveaways. You do not want to miss this!
Sunday, December 10th, 3pm – 5pm

Vulcan’s Holiday Experience

Vulcan Park and Museum will be transformed into a delightful wonderland filled with lights, holiday music, special guest appearances, and Santa.

Dec. 9-10 and 16-22 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Admission is $8 for ages 13 and up, $5 for kids ages 5-12 and children under 4 are free

Brocks Gap Brewing

Santa is making a special stop by Hoover’s favorite brewery and will be available for pictures. Bring your own camera! BGBC will be accepting donations for local charities, new unwrapped toys and canned goods are greatly appreciated!
December 10th 4pm – 7pm
December 16th 3pm – 8pm

Santa is coming to Birmingham Candy at the Summit!

Get in the holiday spirit and hang out with Santa. Take a selfie with him, bring him your Christmas list, or simply swing on by to say “hey”. All are welcome!
Wednesday, December 13th, 4pm

All is Bright Vestavia City Center

Attendees will enjoy lots of Christmas activities, fun photo opportunities, live performances, and a visit with Santa.
Friday, December 15th, 5:30pm

Shops of Grand River

Selfies with Santa! Visit with Santa at The Shops of Grand River. Bring a camera and take your own photos!
Satruday, December 16th, 12pm – 4pm

The Coca Cola Caravan at the Birmingham Zoo

The Holiday Caravan is coming! Make sure to visit the Birmingham Zoo for a free family photo with Santa!
Sunday, December, 17th 6pm – 8pm

Feeling more grinchy? Check out these opportunities to snap a picture with the Grinch

A Very Grinchmas Dance Party at Ferus Ales

The dance party goes from 12pm till 2pm, but hang around after to have your picture taken with the Grinch. Photos are first come first serve.
Sunday, December 3rd,  12pm – 4pm

Meet the Grinch at La Paz Ross Bridge

Bring your kiddos and pets and get a picture with the Grinch. There will be live Christmas music, Mexican hot chocolate, and face painting for the kids!
Sunday, December 3rd, 11:30am

Photos with the Grinch at the Shops of Grand River

Selfies with the Grinch! Visit with Grinch at The Shops of Grand River. Bring a camera and take your own photos!
Sunday, December 19th, 12pm – 4pm.

2023 Veteran’s Day Parade

Birmingham’s Annual National Veterans Day Parade celebrates the national holiday officially signed into legislation by President Eisenhower in 1954 and is the longest-running parade of its kind in the country.

“This is such a unique event for our city and for honoring the many men and women who have served and currently serve our country,” said Mark Ryan, president of the National Veterans Day Parade. “We invite individuals and families to join us downtown to help us celebrate, remember and pay homage to those who have given their all for the U.S. and its people.”

This year’s parade will include a mixture of Veterans service organizations, members of the U.S. armed forces and Alabama military supporters, as well as local color guards, high school bands and drill teams. Miss Alabama, Brianna Burrell, and local Shriners will also participate.

Set to take place Veterans Day, Saturday, Nov. 11 — will begin at 1p.m. and will follow a slightly altered route than that of previous years. The new parade route will similarly begin on 18th Street by the Alabama Power building and end on 19th Street by City Hall, however it will wind through different historic Downtown Birmingham blocks than it has prior.

The event will also be broadcast live starting at 1:30p.m. via nationalveteransday.org for those who cannot physically attend. The 30-minute delay correlates with the parade reaching the viewing stand at City Hall.

Here’s a link to more information on this year’s parade and the NEW route!

Light up your Holidays with Glow Wild at the Birmingham Zoo!

While the Birmingham Zoo has more than 500 animals showcased during the day, get ready for new animals appearing at night. Glow Wild: An Animal Lantern Celebration will open in less that one month. Sponsored by Alabama Power, Glow Wild will feature more than 100 lanterns showcasing international animals and one special tribute to Birmingham. This year’s event will feature new animal lanterns plus exciting acrobatic performances each night. Glow Wild will be open each week on select days between November 17, 2023 and January 15, 2024.

“Since Glow Wild runs from Thanksgiving through Hanukah, Christmas, Kwanza, and New Year’ before closing on the Martin Luther King Jr. Day, ‘Light Up Your Holidays’ summarized the three-month-long celebration,” said Chris Pfefferkorn, President and CEO of the Birmingham Zoo. “This event is perfect for the entire family or for groups of friends,” he said. “Guests will be captivated by new jaw-dropping lantern creations of wildlife and plants of all sizes soaring up to 30 feet high! Your Birmingham Zoo will brilliantly sparkle to light up the night and offer something for everyone to enjoy.”

Glow Wild will be open from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., so guests will see the Birmingham Zoo come alive for a larger- than-life illuminated experience. In addition to enjoying the new lanterns and acrobats, the Red Diamond Train will be all decked out for the holidays and is always a crowd favorite.

For a more detailed dates and to purchase tickets, visit www.birminghamzoo.com/glowwild. Glow Wild is a weather-dependent event with nights being subject to cancellation. Please be aware that as a night event, zoo animals will not be viewable during the event.

2023 Holiday Film Series at the Alabama Theatre

The beloved holiday film series makes a dazzling return to the iconic Alabama Theatre! From December 8th to 22nd, immerse yourself in the magic of the season with 22 enchanting screenings. It’s time to indulge in timeless Christmas classics and seasonal gems at our historic downtown Birmingham venue. This annual series holds a special place in the hearts of locals and movie enthusiasts alike. Picture yourself stepping into the theatre, beautifully adorned in holiday splendor, setting the perfect backdrop for a memorable cinematic experience. It’s a tradition cherished by many, promising delightful moments and a heartwarming atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season. Here’s this years line up:

2023 Holiday Film Series at the Alabama Theatre

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

Friday, Dec. 8, White Christmas, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 9, The Polar Express, 2pm
Saturday, Dec. 9, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, 7pm

Sunday, Dec. 10, Miracle on 34th Street(1947 version), 2pm
Sunday, Dec. 10, It’s a Wonderful Life. 7pm

Monday, Dec. 11, Home Alone, 7pm

Tuesday, Dec. 12 Elf, 7pm

Wednesday, Dec. 13, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, 7pm

Thursday, Dec. 14, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, 7pm

Friday, Dec. 15, The Nightmare Before Christmas, 7pm

Saturday, Dec. 16, Cartoon Matinee Triple Feature (“A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”) 2ppm
Saturday, Dec. 16, Elf, 7pm

Sunday, Dec. 17, The Santa Clause, 2pm
Sunday, Dec. 17, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, 7pm

Monday, Dec. 18, Elf, 7pm
Tuesday, Dec. 19, Home Alone, 7pm

Wednesday, Dec. 20, Elf, 7pm
Wednesday, Dec. 20, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, 7pm

Thursday, Dec. 21, Home Alone, 2pm
Thursday, Dec. 21, Die Hard, 7pm

Friday, Dec. 22, White Christmas Sing-Along, 2pm
Friday, Dec. 22, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, 7pm

Doors will open one hour before showtime. Each event begins with a sing-along performed on the theater’s Mighty Wurlitzer organ.

Tickets for most movies are $10 each, plus service charges, on sale now via Ticketmaster. Tickets are $12 for “The Polar Express,” a benefit screening for Kid One Transport. Admission is free for children age 2 and younger.

7 November Events Not To Miss in Birmingham

November is a month full of fun in Birmingham, as we move from Fall into the Christmas holidays, there is no shortage of things to do, and great weather to enjoy! Here are some events not to miss!

Dia De Los Muertos

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 performances and beautiful costumes, to a procession with puppets, homemade altars (ofrendas) and food trucks, Día de los Muertos Número 21 will be an event you do not want to miss!

When: November 3rd and 4th | 4pm – 10pm
Where: Sloss Furnaces

Ticket Info:
$15 in Advance, $20 at the Gate, Free for Children 12 years of age & younger

Veteran’s Day at American Village

Attend Veterans Day at American Village as they host a special event honoring veterans, activity military + their families. Take part in a Service of Thanksgiving, wreath-laying + family-friendly activities.

When: November 10th | 10am – 4pm
Where: American Village
More Info HERE

Red Mountain Theatre: Play Day Bluey’s Thanksgiving Pageant

Play Days are one-day experiences that are designed to let imaginations run wild! Spend a day exploring the world as a character from one of your favorite stories. Students will learn introductory theatre skills in a fun, creative atmosphere!

Bluey is getting ready to perform a Thanksgiving pageant at his school, and he needs your help! Join us for this fun celebration before the real Turkey Day!

Ages 6-8
WHEN Saturday November 11th | 9am – 4pm
WHERE: Red Mountain Theatre Co

Veteran’s Day Parade

76th National Veterans Day Parade, live and in person, along the streets of downtown Birmingham!  The parade begins at 1:00pm, rain or shine!

WHEN: Saturday, November 11th | 1pm

Magic City Mac N Cheese Festival

Small cups of Mac N Cheese for taste testing festival

A day of family fun activities, delicious food and beverages, and some friendly competition among local eateries, food trucks, caterers, and cook teams! Held at Back Forty Beer Company rain or shine! All proceeds go to Community Grief Support to provide free counseling, support groups, and community grief education in the Birmingham area. May the best mac n’ cheese win!

When: Sunday, November 12th | 1pm – 4pm
Where: Back Forty Beer Company

Ticket Info:
$20 Day of Ticket
$5 Children 12 and under
Children 5 and under are free!
Purchase HERE

Glow Wild at the Birmingham Zoo

It’s the kick off of the Birmingham Zoo’s larger-than-life illuminated experience, Glow Wild: An Animal Lantern Celebration! This extraordinary event will be held on select nights from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm during the months of November, December, and January. Watch the Zoo come alive with larger-than-life, jaw-dropping wild animal and sea life lantern creations brilliantly lighting up the night! Take a ride on the Red Diamond Express Train* or go for a spin on the Protective Life Carousel*. Spend all winter long with your Birmingham Zoo and GLOW WILD into the new year!

Opens November 17th and runs select nights through January
More info HERE

Winter Wonder at the Summit

The most festive event of the season! Santa’s Arrival!  Get ready to kick off the holiday season in style with an event that promises fun for everyone! Here’s what you can look forward to:

– Get into the holiday spirit with live music featuring all your favorite festive tunes.
-Face painting for all ages.
-Various Food Trucks
-Adult Apple Cider and Hot Chocolate , Sip on seasonal delights and warm up with adult beverages.
-Regular Apple Cider and Hot Chocolate, Kid-friendly treats to keep everyone cozy.
-Photo Booths   Capture the memories with fun photo opportunities.
-Snow   Experience the magic of a winter wonderland, right here!
-Exclusive Meet and Greet with Santa   Don’t miss your chance to meet Santa in person and share your holiday wishes.

WHEN: November 17th, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
WHERE: The Summit Shopping Center

 

Thank you to our site sponsor, Scott Boudreaux with LAH Sotheby’s. For more information on what’s happening in the Birmingham Housing Market, or to schedule a free home buyer/seller consultation, you can reach him at:

Scott Boudreaux, 205.835.9787 | sboudreaux@lahrealestate.com

 

Dia De Los Muertos in Birmingham

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a family-friendly, multi-faceted, immersive arts commemoration of the Mexican tradition of remembrance of lost loved ones. The festival features bands, dancers, an artist market, art activities for children, a parade, food trucks, ofrendas/altars, a memorial roll call and more!  Bare Hands, Inc.’s Día de los Muertos festival is one of the most intricate Day of the Dead celebrations in the Southeast.

Gates open at 4 p.m. and attendees will see performances by Premier de America Mariachi, Emilio Crixell & Border Soul, Danza Azteca Xochipilli, Folkloric Dance San Francisco Xavier, a parade led by a procession band and a Frida Kahlo ceremony.

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

WHEN: November 2nd and 3rd, 4pm – 10pm
WHERE: Sloss Furnaces

Empowering Education for Every Child: Introducing GOAT Tutors

Navigating the complex world of education has never been more challenging, especially for busy moms juggling a packed schedule. The pressure on our kids to excel, coupled with the digital distractions, often leaves us searching for effective support systems.

Meet William, an experienced English teacher, and Hannah, his partner from their days at Homewood Middle School. Together, they’ve founded GOAT Tutors, a revolutionary platform born out of their passion for empowering parents and students alike.

Why GOAT Tutors?

In the face of growing student struggles and anxieties, GOAT Tutors emerged as a beacon of academic guidance. William, with his decade-long teaching experience, recognized the challenges students face daily. Their mission? To provide a quick, reliable solution for families grappling with schoolwork while offering a direct path to academic achievement.

What Sets Them Apart?

GOAT Tutors stands out for several reasons:

Carefully Vetted Tutors: Their tutors are not just educators; they’re mentors who understand the nuances of effective teaching. They’ve been meticulously vetted and background checked by fellow educators, ensuring your child receives the best guidance.

-Streamlined Booking: Busy moms need simplicity. With GOAT, you can book sessions for the week ahead effortlessly. Just a few clicks, and you’re all set.

-Flexible Group Learning: They believe in the power of collaborative learning. Moms can share session links with their child’s classmates, encouraging group learning. Plus, for every additional student joining, everyone saves 10%! It’s a win-win situation, promoting both effective learning and financial savings.

-Tailored Packages: They understand that every family’s needs are unique. That’s why they offer flexible packages tailored to your requirements, ensuring you get precisely what you need for your child’s academic journey.

-Community Partnerships: GOAT Tutors is more than just a tutoring service. They’re here to partner with schools, organizations, and groups of any size. Their flexible partnerships extend their reach, allowing them to support even more students in their educational endeavors.

How Does It Work?

Booking a session with GOAT is as easy as pie. In less than a minute, you can specify the subject, your preferred time, and the level. They’ll provide you with a list of tutors who match your criteria, including ACT and SAT Test Prep!

Join the GOAT Community!

Whether your child needs help in core subjects, test preparation, or specialized topics, GOAT Tutors is here to guide them. Invest in your child’s academic journey with GOAT packages, offering both accountability and savings, ensuring they always have the support they need.

Are you a part of a school group or organization? Consider partnering with them for a Learn and Earn GOAT Fundraiser. They’ll provide customized support materials and contribute 10% of all funds spent to help your group’s goals.

Empower your child’s education today with GOAT Tutors. Together, you can foster a love for learning and pave the way for a brighter academic future! For more information and to pick your tutor, visit their site now!

3 Events to Do on Halloween Day in Birmingham

The spooky spectacles just keep coming and we’ve got the inside scoop on the most fang-tastic events happening right here in the Magic City.

So, grab your capes, witches’ hats, and trick-or-treat bags as we give you all the deets of these hair-raising Halloween events. Get ready for a spooktacular adventure right here in Birmingham – it’s all treats, no tricks!

Mystics of Mountain Brook Parade

The city’s yearly Mystics of Mountain Brook Halloween parade is set on Oct. 31 at 4 p.m.

The event is inspired by the festive spirit of “Mardi Gras,” showcases parade floats, treats, and a plethora of lively costumes for families to enjoy.

Make sure to stop by the LAH Sotheby’s office in Crestline before the parade and say hi to our Site sponsor Scott Boudreaux, they’ll have pre parade treats!

Trick or Treat at the Summit!

Visit the participating retailers, where they’ll be distributing candies and goodies to children. Each of these stores will be easily identifiable with a window decal and will be marked on the Trick-or-Treating map. And remember to bring along your preferred Trick-or-Treat bags!

Tuesday October 31st
4pm – 8pm

Vulcan’s Spooktacular

Join Vulcan Park & Museum on Tuesday, October 31 from 6:00P- 8:00P for Vulcan’s Spooktacular. There will be trick or treating throughout the museum, photo stations, free popcorn, music & MORE! Our leashed furry friends are invited to park grounds, so bring them out in their costumes for a treat.

Tickets are $6 for ages 12 and up, $5 for ages 12-5, and kids 4 and under are FREE. Admission is free for Vulcan Park & Museum members and includes entrance to the festivities, and the museum.

If you’re still looking for a Trick or Trunk or Treat… There are a few happening along with some libraries participating on the 31st!

Experience Halloween Magic in Birmingham: Top 5 Family Activities for Halloweekend!

As the spookiest season of the year descends upon us, Birmingham transforms into a Halloween wonderland, offering a plethora of family-friendly activities that will enchant every member of the family.

Child holding a pumpkin halloween bucket

Here’s a list of bewitching activities that promise not only fun but also unforgettable moments with your kiddos!

Join us as we explore the best family-friendly Halloween events in Birmingham, providing you with all the details you need to plan an extraordinary Halloweekend adventure. Get ready for a weekend filled with laughter, costumes, and spooky surprises that will make your family’s Halloween memories truly enchanting!

1: Moonlight Movies at Lane Parke

Moonlight Movies is back at Lane Parke with a Halloween favorite, Hocus Pocus!

There will be complimentary popcorn, and don’t forget to grab a to-go dinner or drink from one of our restaurants and stop by the Lane Parke tent for a giveaway!

We’ll be out there at 6:00pm and the movie will start at 6:30! Bring your lawn chair or blanket

WHEN: Friday, October 27th | 6pm
WHERE: Lane Parke Road

2: Hoots and Howls

A daytime Halloween event to Trick-or-treat around the zoo, join the Monster Mash, or climb up the Full Moon BBQ Spider Climber Adventure Tower. Get your tickets now!
When: Saturday the 28th and Sunday the 29th | 10am – 4pm
Where: The Birmingham Zoo
Tickets are required

3: Haunt the Hills

Trick-or-Treat on the Grand Lawn with local businesses from 4:00-6:00 pm!
Inflatables, food trucks, and costume and pumpkin carving contests, finishing off the night with a showing of Monsters Inc. on the big screen!

WHEN: Saturday, October 28th | 4pm – 6pm
WHERE: Wald Park

4: Tannehill Fairyland

The Tannehill Halloween Fairyland, a non-scary fun-filled holiday event. The event features park-sponsored programs during the afternoon and traditional Halloween candy “trick or treat” stops at more than 200 campsites during the evening. Park events include moonwalks, face painting, balloon animals, a bungee jump, along with a train rides for a small additional charge. A special tradition is the festival’s annual Halloween Festival T-shirt. Campground site decorations and lights are extensive, creative and surreal.

WHEN: Saturday, October 28th
WHERE: Tannehill State Park

*Regular gate admission applies

5: Artplay Halloween Spooktacular

It’s time for the annual Halloween Bash! Treats, music, dancing and a visual art activity or three. Wear your favorite costume, and don’t forget to bring the entire family to this FREE, fun, and festive party.

WHEN: Saturday, October 28th| 1pm – 4pm
WHERE: Artplay

If you’re looking for Trick or Treating fun, make sure to check our our list of Trick and Trunk or Treats. and if you want to watch the witches ride you still have several opportunities around town for that!