The holiday Christmas season is officially here! If you’re looking for Christmas lights in the Greater Birmingham, Alabama area, you’re in the right place.
Birmingham, Alabama comes alive during the holiday season, and 2025 is packed with some of the brightest and most magical Christmas light displays in the state. From dazzling walk-through trails to festive drive-thru shows and classic city decorations, there are plenty of family-friendly ways to enjoy the season. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holidays, this guide highlights the best Christmas lights and events around Birmingham to make your celebrations unforgettable.
Vulcan Park & Museum
Magical Nights: Vulcan’s Holiday Light Experience
December 5–23, 2025 • 6:00 PM–8:00 PM on select nights
https://visitvulcan.com/event/vulcans-magical-nights/
This beloved annual holiday event sits atop Red Mountain, offering holiday lights with a stunning skyline view. Enjoy music, hot chocolate, food trucks, and photos with Santa. It’s a cozy and festive Birmingham tradition – perfect for the whole family.
Birmingham Zoo
Glow Wild 2025
November 22, 2025 – January 4, 2026 • 5:00 PM–9:00 PM on select nights
https://www.birminghamzoo.com/event/glow-wild-a-holiday-lantern-festival-for-everyone/
Glow Wild transforms the zoo into a lantern-lit holiday wonderland. Stroll through massive glowing animal lanterns, festive Christmas displays, and warm treat stations. Kids love the crafts and s’mores, and adults love the atmosphere. A must-do Birmingham Christmas experience!
Lights of Noel
November 21, 2025 – early January 2026 • Opens daily at 5:00 PM
https://www.lightsofnoel.com/
Stay warm and enjoy a beautifully animated drive-thru Christmas lights show synced to holiday music. This is one of the most popular drive-through events in the region – perfect for families who want holiday magic without leaving the car.
Magic of Lights – Alabama Adventure
November 21, 2025 – January 3, 2026
(A drive-thru light show located just outside Birmingham)
https://amusementtoday.com/2025/10/magic-of-lights-is-back-at-alabama-adventure/
Magic of Lights features giant holiday scenes, tunnels of lights, animated characters, and fun family photo ops. New this year: a “Reindeer Rest Stop” mid-route for snacks and photos. This is a great add-on if you’re already in the Bessemer/Hoover area.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Luminate Winter Light Trail
November 28, 2025 – January 1, 2026 • Entry times 4:30 PM–8:00 PM
https://luminate.live/birmingham-botanical-gardens
This illuminated walking trail winds through the gardens with glowing tunnels, projection effects, and beautifully lit pathways. It’s peaceful, romantic, and perfect for a holiday date night – or a scenic family outing.
Downtown Birmingham
Linn Park • Regions Center • CityWalk BHAM • The Summit
Birmingham shines during the holidays! Be sure to check out:
• Linn Park: Classic Christmas tree + festive displays
• Regions Center: The iconic multi-story Christmas mural lights
• CityWalk BHAM: Vibrant under-the-bridge lights, perfect for photos
• The Summit: Trees, ornaments, huge outdoor displays & shopping décor
Make an evening of it by grabbing dinner or hot chocolate and strolling around.
Christmas Lights Outside the Birmingham Area
If you’d like to take a short Christmas road trip, these nearby destinations are worth the drive:
Huntsville Botanical Garden
Galaxy of Lights 2025
November 14, 2025 – December 31, 2025
Various nightly time slots (walk-thru & drive-thru nights)
https://hsvbg.org/visit/exhibits/galaxy-of-lights/
Galaxy of Lights is one of the Southeast’s largest and most impressive Christmas displays. Drive, walk, bike, or even bring your dogs on special nights. This is a magical all-ages event!
Huntsville Tinsel Trail
November 28, 2025 – January 1, 2026
http://tinseltrail.com
Hundreds of beautifully decorated Christmas trees line the paths of Big Spring Park downtown. It’s free, festive, and perfect for photos.
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland – Madison
November 21, 2025 – December 28, 2025 • 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
https://www.shadrackchristmas.com
Located at Toyota Field, this synchronized drive-thru light show features large animated displays, tunnels, and kid-approved musical choreography.
Christmas at the Falls – Gadsden
November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026 • 4:00 PM–8:00 PM
(Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day)
https://www.noccalulafallspark.com/events/christmas-at-the-falls/
This event features millions of lights illuminating Noccalula Falls Park. Visitors can stroll or ride the train through the displays and enjoy food vendors, gift shops, and photo spots.
Which Christmas Lights Are Your Favorite?
There are so many places in and around Birmingham to enjoy the holiday season! If you know a Christmas light display we didn’t mention, share your favorites in the comments below.
If you’re new to Birmingham or thinking about moving here, feel free to contact Dianna Howell with The Howell Group for all things local and real estate:
Phone: 205-568-5435
Email: dianna.howell@kw.com
Visit our blog for more Birmingham lifestyle events and local favorites:
https://diannahowellrealtor.com/category/lifestyle/
Sincerely,
Dianna Howell
The Howell Group of Keller Williams
Top Real Estate Agent in the Birmingham, Alabama Area
