Outdoor Holiday Events for the Family Around The Gulf Coast
With the holidays closing in and the pandemic still on high alert, families are looking for fun outdoor events and activities more than ever. Luckily, the Gulf Coast and surrounding areas have plenty to take the kids or a nice date to. Below are some fun and easy holiday-themed events you can enjoy this season.
Bellingrath Gardens and Home (Theodore, AL)
One of the more popular seasonal and year-round attractions is a 65-acre floral and Christmas light wonder in a Southern estate garden. They host educational events throughout the year, but for the winter holidays, they have an outstanding Magic Christmas in Lights show where you and your family can walk through an incredibly decorated pathway featuring more than 3 million lights and 1,100 set pieces. You can explore in awe at the active light shows and beautiful gardens in between. Locals suggest you purchase your tickets in advance, as this event fills up fast when the sun goes down!
Ice Rink At The Wharf (Orange Beach, AL)
We get the benefits of coastal living and weather and still can enjoy the classic winter experience of ice skating at the local hangout, the Wharf. Bring or rent a pair of skates and glide, spin or fall on real ice until January 17. You are required to sign a waiver, but you can sign an e-waiver beforehand to save time and hit the rink with your family and friends! While you are there you can also enjoy the Wharf’s delicious restaurants, local boutiques, and seasonal carriage rides.
Holiday Tree Show (Foley, AL)
Don’t miss out on the Christmas light show happening every night admission-free in Downtown OWA. Come down at 6 pm to admire their 36-foot-tall Christmas tree and mesmerizing light show to holiday music that is synchronized with the lights. OWA also is surrounded by amusement parks and popular eateries so you can enjoy roller coasters and dinner before the show! Check out their website to also see the ongoing concerts and small bands that attend throughout the seasons to get the most out of your visit.
Holiday Sunset Cruise From Five Rivers (Spanish Fort, AL)
Drive on over to Five Rivers Delta Resource Center and local favorite Historic Blakeley State Park for a weekend of family-friendly holiday cruises into the wild and scenic Mobile-Tensaw Delta! From December 17th-19th you can get inexpensive tickets and multiple experience options such as their winter sunset cruise, or three of their popular 90-minute Delta Discovery Tours, all departing from the Bartram Landing at Five Rivers. Enjoy a peaceful and stress-free educational and views tour while being treated to hot chocolate and cookies on board. Plus, kids receive a free stocking loaded with holiday candies, so what’s not to love?
Holiday Horse And Carriage Rides At The Wharf (Orange Beach, AL)
Saddle up for the season and enjoy a movie-like experience by spending the evening in a festive horse-drawn carriage on select dates in December. For only $25 per carriage ride (up to 6 adults, lap children welcome), why not immerse yourself and friends and family into the ultimate Christmas holiday tradition. The wharf also has a giant, well-lit ferris wheel, eateries, local boutiques and a concert arena that you can plan into your visit! For a short period of time this season, you can also go next door to the real ice skating rink!
Tonsmeire Properties is located in Fairhope, Alabama, with four communities located in Madison, Foley and Daphne, Alabama. Wherever you find yourself looking for a rental, consider one of the Tonsmeire communities. We’ve been building and renting apartments and rental homes in the area for over 50 years and our professional team of leasing agents are excited to help you find your new home.