Get ready for the holidays in downtown Birmingham. Check items off your gift list, get ready for holiday events and have fun with the family.
Downtown Birmingham transforms into a holiday wonderland for Christmastime and you don’t want to miss the festivities. From FREE horse-drawn carriage rides to Santa visits there are things to do all season long and special events you don’t want to miss.
Santa Walk // November 25
Welcome Santa to town and introduce him to Birmingham with a walk through downtown. Stop at shops along the way, before concluding at Santa’s quaint home in Shain Park. Pre-registration is requested.
Santa House // November 25 – December 24
Bring your wish list to Santa’s House at Shain Park. The ‘Big Guy’ is ready to visit with good little girls and boys – he’s even bringing his reindeer. Reservations are needed for most dates so sign up for your preferred time before space runs out. You can visit him without an appointment on Friday, December 1st between 6:30pm to 8pm, Saturday, December 2nd from 10am to 8pm and Sunday, December 3rd from 10am to 4pm.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides // November 25 – December 24
Hop aboard a complimentary horse-drawn carriage for an illuminated tour of the holiday lights and beautifully decorated downtown. The carriage rides begin in Shain Park. Carriage rides are first come, first served – no reservations needed!
Tree Lighting Ceremony // December 1
The holiday festivities ramp up with the annual tree lighting ceremony on Friday, December 1st at 6pm. The special event features Santa, live caroling and the lighting of the holiday tree adorned with over 40,000 LED lights!
Winter Market // December 1 – 3
Experience the magic of the holidays at the annual Birmingham Winter Markt, featuring displays from local artists and vendors, European cuisine, thousands of holiday lights, ice sculptures, live entertainment, complimentary carriage rides + more.
Ice Skate @ Barnum Park
Strap on some skates and hit the ice at Barnum Park. It’s free and open to the public. Opening date for season is TBD
Get Holiday Ready
Find the perfect outfit for holiday pictures at Petite Cabane, Egg New York or Lil’ Rascals. And plan a girls afternoon with a full beauty treatment – hair, nails and make-up.
