Written by: Terrance D.
Terrance writes for Bender Vacation Rentals, sharing vacation planning tips, travel insights, local things to do, and property highlights to help guests make the most of their time along the Alabama Gulf Coast.
The Holidays on Alabama's Gulf Coast look a little different from those in much of the rest of the country. Instead of shoveling snow from the driveway, winter in Gulf Shores puts you right next to white-sand beaches, where you can enjoy comfortable weather, waterfront dining, and festive events throughout Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Foley. For everything from sparkling light displays to decorated boats cruising the Intracoastal Waterway, follow along with this blog as we take you through the area's best holiday events. Whether you’re planning a family getaway or just looking for fun things to do, you're going to want to take part in these fun holiday activities.
In this Blog:
- See the Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens
- Watch the Christmas Lighted Boat Parade
- Celebrate Christmas at OWA
- Spend a Holiday Evening at The Wharf
- Experience Let It Snow in Foley
- Experience Holiday Magic in Gulf Shores
See the Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens
Take a trip to Bellingrath Gardens for a truly incredible light display in the middle of one of the most charming places in the south! During Magic Christmas in Lights, the 65-acre gardens are transformed with thousands of sparkling lights and colorful holiday displays spread throughout the property. Stroll the grounds and take a tour of the historic Bellingrath Home, decorated for the holidays, with treats and entertainment along the way. While the gardens are closed on the holidays themselves, there's plenty of time to check out this amazing presentation between late November and early January!
Watch the Christmas Lighted Boat Parade
See the area's local twist on this fun Christmas tradition, and catch a coastal vibe at the Annual Lighted Boat Parade. Each December, boats covered in colorful holiday lights travel along the Intracoastal Waterway through Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Visitors can find a waterfront viewing spot at Lulu's and watch everything from smaller boats to larger vessels cruise past in their Christmas colors. The event is one of the most distinctive ways to celebrate the holidays on Alabama’s beaches.
Celebrate Christmas at OWA
Head north to Foley for even more holiday fun at OWA. The area fills with lights and Christmas decorations, creating a fun, traditional holiday experience with seasonal entertainment throughout November and December. This event will include visits with Santa, Christmas movies, family activities, and synchronized light displays all around. Because the event is free, you can also walk around the mall, grab dinner, look around at the shops, and enjoy the festive atmosphere without purchasing admission to Tropic Falls. OWA also makes a convenient addition to a day spent exploring Foley and other attractions near Gulf Shores.
Spend a Holiday Evening at The Wharf
The Wharf in Orange Beach becomes one of the area’s biggest holiday attractions each December. Main Street is decorated with lights and seasonal displays, while you can enjoy ice skating, carriage rides, and live entertainment presentations throughout the season. While you're at the Wharf, do some window shopping, stop for dinner, or ride the Ferris wheel for an elevated view of the surrounding lights.
Experience Let It Snow in Foley
You may not expect to see snow during a Gulf Coast holiday vacation, but you can head over to Foley for the next best thing! The city’s annual Let It Snow celebration at Heritage Park typically comes after the town's Christmas Parade. The family-friendly event includes live entertainment, holiday vendors, a visit from Santa, and other activities for the little ones, such as artificial “snow.”
Experience Holiday Magic in Gulf Shores
Featured: Lei Lani 405T
Enjoy the holiday season on the Gulf when you make your trip to Gulf Shores this winter! Whenever you’re ready to pack up your gear for the day, return to one of our many vacation homes here at Bender Vacation Rentals. Our wide portfolio of properties includes stunning condos, beachside homes, and pet-friendly accommodations, allowing you to enjoy Gulf Shores your way with all the amenities you need. Explore all our properties today and save big at checkout when you book directly with Bender Vacation Rentals.