Celebrate the Season with Alabama State Parks
All photos provided by Alabama State Parks
Alabama State Parks have holiday fun planned for everyone this season. With 21 State Parks to explore, visitors are sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy festivals, create memorable moments, and form lasting memories that make the season shine.
Imagine celebrating Christmas with a soft mountain mist drifting across a cabin porch or watching waves crash as the sun dips into the Gulf. In Alabama, both experiences can be yours, as Alabama State Parks make holiday adventures as vast and wonderful as the state itself.
The best part? No sleigh required! All you need is a little holiday spirit and a love for the great outdoors. Visitors check out the growing list of seasonal celebrations atAlapark.com/Holiday-Fun. And here are a few Alabama Small Towns and Downtown favorites to get you started!
Mountaintop Magic at Cheaha State Park
Perched high above the pines, Cheaha State Park is celebrating Whoville style for its annual Grinchmas celebration. From 1:00p.m. to 3:00 p.m., there’ll be cocoa, cookie decorating, story time, and even a chance to meet the big green guy himself. The Grinch may be a mean one, but atop Alabama's highest peak, it's all smiles and holiday cheer. The event takes place on December 13, 2025. Registration is available at Alapark.com/Holiday-Fun or by calling (256) 488-5111 for details.Coastal Cheer at Gulf State Park
Down on the coast, Christmas comes with palm trees, sea breezes, and a touch of southern sparkle. Gulf State Park will celebrate throughout the month with Coastal Nights of Lights, Christmas Card Lane, Breakfast with the Grinch, live music at the Beach Pavilion, Grinchmas, and more. Visitors can register early to secure their holiday experience at Alapark.com/Holiday-Fun or call (251) 424-0036 for more information.
Critter-Filled Christmas at Oak Mountain State Park
Oak Mountain State Park will host a Critter-Filled Christmas on December 20, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Interpretive Center. Guests can enjoy Christmas crafts, meet live animals, write letters to Santa, and sip hot chocolate as nature and holiday cheer come together. Registration is available at Alapark.com/Holiday-Fun. For more information, please call (205) 620-2520.
Wonderland Under Warrior at Rickwood Caverns State Park
The season stays merry and bright underground at Wonderland Under Warrior, taking place from November 22, 2025, to January 4, 2026. The caverns come alive with glowing lights and festive displays as visitors stroll through Alabama's underground winter wonderland. For details and reservations, visit Alapark.com/Holiday-Fun or call (205) 647-9692.Advance registration ensures the best holiday tour experience. Rickwood Caverns State Park will shine all season, with a few "rest days for the elves" on Mondays and Tuesdays from December 1-16, and on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve.
Boats, Lights, and Santa at Joe Wheeler State Park
Joe Wheeler State Park will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its famous boat parade on December 13, 2025, at 6:00p.m. This milestone year promises to be the park's biggest celebration yet as Christmas takes to the water with the Parade of Lights. Guests can enjoy photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as Christmas carolers and Santa's Workshop, complete with hot cocoa and festive activities. For reservations and details, visit Alapark.com/Holiday-Fun or call (256) 247-5466.
Holiday Shopping at Wind Creek State Park
Wind Creek State Park will host its inaugural Holiday Market on December 13, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Visitors can browse for the perfect gifts while enjoying food and festive vendors set up throughout the park's day-use area. Learn more at Alapark.com/Holiday-Fun or call (256) 329-0845 for more information.Plan Your Holiday Adventure Now
Alabama State Parks offer a memorable way to enjoy the season. From peaceful getaways to festive events and outdoor adventures with family, there is a perfect place for everyone to spend the holidays. We invite you to explore our scenic trails, relax in peaceful settings, or take part in one of the many special holiday events. For the latest information on holiday events, visit Alapark.com/Holiday-Fun or call 1-800-ALAPARK to learn more about Alabama State Parks.
Grab Your Roadmap! The 2026 Issue of Alabama Foodie is O... There is something truly magical about the back roads of Alabama. If you drive long enough through our rolling hills, past our shimmerin...
Please be careful about fake “local news” pagesWe want to make our community aware of a growing concern: AI-generated websites and Facebook pages are popping up that appear to be loca...
Why the Eufaula Pilgrimage Still Feels Like Spring’s Mos... Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday April 9 - April 12, 2026 Daytime Home Tours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (Friday and Saturday) Daytime Home ...
Boondocks BBQ and Creamery, Mouthwatering BBQ and Award ... 20201 HWY 431 Renowned for its mouthwatering barbecue dishes and creamy, award-winning homemade ice cream, this laid-back and welcoming ...