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 29
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 29 – 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. An appointment is required for visits on November 29, December 13, 20 and 24. All other dates are first come, first served. Register for an appointment here starting November 1.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides // November 29 – 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 5
The holiday festivities ramp up with the annual tree lighting ceremony on Friday, December 5th 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 5 – 7
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 hot chocolate, carriage rides + more.
- Friday, December 5, 4pm – 9pm
Tree Lighting Ceremony: 6[, - Saturday, December 6, 10am to 9pm
Snow Queen and Frozen Princess Appearances: 12:30pm – 3:30pm
Horse-drawn Carriage Rides: 3pm – 7pm - Sunday, December 7, 10am. – 4pm
Horse-drawn Carriage Rides: 11am – 3pm
