Plan your perfect holiday season in Florence with our guide. We’ve gathered all the best events and activities to help you make the most of the festivities. For both Florence locals and travelers, this guide reveals the city's festive delights.
Popular events include the enchanting Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens, where hundreds of thousands of lights transform the gardens into a sparkling wonderland. The Galaxy of Lights features immersive light displays that create a magical atmosphere for guests of all ages. And the Christmas in the Park is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering a charming celebration complete with festive activities and community spirit. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Florence
- Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens (Theodore)
- Galaxy of Lights (Huntsville)
- Mobile Christmas Night Market (Mobile)
- Santa in the Village (Arab)
- Christmas in the Park (Arab)
- Merrimack Christmas Market (Huntsville)
- Yule Y’all (Huntsville)
- Fort Payne Canyon Fest (Fort Payne)
- Velcro Pygmies at the Ritz Theatre
- Fall Flea Market Fest
See these and even more events listed below!
Florence Holiday Light Displays
Galaxy of Lights
What to Expect:
Two and a half miles of dazzling light displays with interactive elements.
Description:
Galaxy of Lights is a spectacular holiday event featuring sparkling pathways and animated scenes that tell a story of holiday cheer. It offers walking and driving options, making it perfect for families, couples, and friends of all ages. This event is more than just a light show; it's a place where memories glow as brightly as the lights.
Where: Huntsville | More Info: Galaxy of Lights
Christmas in the Park
What to Expect:
Spectacular holiday light display in a public park.
Description:
Christmas in the Park is a free event at Arab City Park, featuring a festive and over-the-top display of holiday decorations and lights, transforming the park into a spectacular holiday display.
Where: Arab | More Info: Christmas in the Park
Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens
What to Expect:
Dazzling light display with over 3 million lights and 16 scenes.
Description:
Bellingrath Gardens & Home presents a dazzling 65-acre Garden estate adorned with thousands of lights, featuring over 1,100 set pieces and 16 scenes. The historic Bellingrath Home is lavishly decorated with holiday finery and poinsettias. Guests can immerse themselves in live musical performances and savor delectable holiday treats and warm beverages.
Where: Theodore | More Info: Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens
Florence Holiday Markets and Shopping
Fall Flea Market Fest
What to Expect:
Community-driven market with food trucks and vendors.
Description:
The Fall Flea Market Fest at Church Road Storage in Florence, AL, features food trucks, vendors, and giveaways, supporting Florence Lauderdale Animal Shelter and Shoals Sav-Life.
Where: Florence | More Info: Fall Flea Market Fest
Yule Y’all
What to Expect:
Holiday market with local spirit sampling and water tower lighting.
Description:
Join us for Yule Y'all, a festive Christmas market featuring maker art, holiday creations, food, and music. Enjoy a luxurious winter stroll through the grounds and freshly decked halls. Local spirits will be sampled while supplies last, culminating in the lighting of the fabled water tower at 5 PM. Krampus awaits your visit!
Where: Huntsville | More Info: Yule Y’all
Merrimack Christmas Market
What to Expect:
Diverse array of unique treasures from artisans, farmers, and collectors.
Description:
Merrimack Market is a vibrant event featuring over 200 unique treasures from talented artisans, farmers, and collectors. It offers a diverse array of items both inside and outside the market, making it a treasure trove for shoppers.
Where: Huntsville | More Info: Merrimack Christmas Market
Mobile Christmas Night Market
What to Expect:
Unique gifts and local artisans.
Description:
The Mobile Christmas Night Market is a holiday shopping event featuring local and regional artists selling unique gifts, crafts, and holiday decorations. The market includes kid’s activities, live entertainment, and delicious treats, with a cash bar available for adults.
Where: Mobile | More Info: Mobile Christmas Night Market
Florence Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Velcro Pygmies at the Ritz Theatre
What to Expect:
High-energy rock music performance by Velcro Pygmies.
Description:
Velcro Pygmies bring their high-energy rock music to the Ritz Theatre, featuring dynamic performances that captivate audiences.
Where: Florence | More Info: Velcro Pygmies at the Ritz Theatre
Florence Other Holiday Activities
Santa in the Village
What to Expect:
Interactive holiday celebration with historic village settings.
Description:
Santa in the Village is an immersive holiday experience where visitors can meet Mr. Claus, explore historic buildings, and enjoy festive activities.
Where: Arab | More Info: Santa in the Village
Fort Payne Canyon Fest
What to Expect:
Live animal programs and diverse cultural activities.
Description:
Fort Payne Canyon Fest is a vibrant celebration featuring music, arts, crafts, food, demonstrations, and live animal programs at the Little River Canyon Center.
Where: Fort Payne | More Info: Fort Payne Canyon Fest
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- East Florence (2 miles)
- Athens (40 miles)
- Decatur (42 miles)