Looking for the best places to see Christmas lights in Birmingham, AL, this holiday season? From dazzling drive-thru displays to magical walk-through experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Below, we’ve curated a list of the top Christmas light displays around Birmingham, complete with details to help you plan your visits.
1. Glow Wild at the Birmingham Zoo
📍 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223
🗓️ Select nights, November through January
💲 Tickets: $8 for children, $10 for adults (higher at the gate)
Experience the Birmingham Zoo like never before with Glow Wild, a spectacular lantern festival featuring larger-than-life animal and sea life lanterns. Enjoy a ride on the Red Diamond Express Train or the Protective Life Carousel while taking in the stunning lights. Advance ticket purchase is recommended to save on entry fees.
2. Lights of Noel
📍 Birmingham Race Course, 100 Winners Way, Birmingham, AL 35253
🗓️ November 18 – January 2
💲 Admission: $25 per car
Drive through nearly two miles of synchronized LED light displays, tunnels, and holiday-themed decorations at Lights of Noel. Tune into the designated FM radio station to enjoy your favorite holiday music as you marvel at the glowing scenes.
3. Meadowbrook Lights
📍 3069 Brookhill Drive, Birmingham, AL 35242
🗓️ December 1-25
💲 Free
Meadowbrook Lights is a neighborhood favorite, featuring homes beautifully decorated with synchronized lights and music. Simply tune into their FM station to enjoy the full experience. Perfect for families seeking a free, fun evening out.
4. Magic Lights at Vulcan Park and Museum
📍 1701 Valley View Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209
🗓️ Nightly in December, 6 PM – 8 PM
💲 Admission: $6 for adults, $4 for kids ages 5-12, free for children under 4
Take in breathtaking views of the Birmingham skyline while strolling through a holiday wonderland at Vulcan Park. This family-friendly event includes photos with Santa and access to the Observation Tower. Tickets are available online or at the entrance.
5. Wacky Tacky Light Tour
📍 4500 5th Ave S, Building C, Birmingham, AL 35222
🗓️ December 13, 15, 20, and 22 (tours every 15 minutes from 6 PM – 7:45 PM)
💲 Tickets: $45 per person
For a more unconventional holiday experience, join the Wacky Tacky Light Tour hosted by Fresh Air Family. This two-hour bus tour highlights some of Birmingham’s quirkiest and most creative holiday displays, including Star Wars-themed lights and Santa’s Trailer Park.
6. Peppertree Subdivision Lights
📍 5242 Peppertree Circle, Trussville, AL 35173
🗓️ Nightly in December, 5 PM – 10 PM
💲 Free
Stroll through the festive Peppertree neighborhood, where almost every house is decked out with dazzling lights. Don’t miss the iconic Santa’s House display and other creative setups that make this spot a must-see for holiday enthusiasts.
7. The Preserve in Hoover
📍 616 Preserve Pkwy, Hoover, AL 35226
🗓️ Nightly throughout December
💲 Free
The Preserve in Hoover transforms into a magical village during the holidays. Stroll or drive through this charming neighborhood to see stunning light displays adorning homes, townhouses, and local businesses.
8. Alabaster Tour of Lights
📍 Interactive Google Map (Available Soon on City of Alabaster Website)
🗓️ December 1, 2024
⏰ Starting at 5:00 PM
💲 Free
Kick off your holiday season with the Alabaster Tour of Lights, featuring a record-breaking 37 homes decked out in festive holiday displays. This year’s tour includes 15 new participants, ensuring fresh sights and plenty of holiday cheer. The interactive Google map will be available on the city’s website and social media pages, making it easy to plan your route for a memorable evening.
Make the Most of Your Visits
While planning your holiday light adventures, consider these tips:
- Arrive Early: Beat the crowds by visiting during the week or early in the evening.
- Check Weather Conditions: Many outdoor displays may close during inclement weather.
- Stay Comfortable: Bring blankets, hot cocoa, and festive snacks for a cozy experience, especially at drive-thru events.
Follow along for updates throughout December, including photos, videos, light-viewing tips, Santa sightings, and other holiday happenings. Don’t miss this community-driven celebration of holiday spirit!
Looking for more family-friendly holiday fun? Explore our Birmingham Holiday Family Fun Guide 2024 for more ideas! Don’t forget to check out local family activities for other seasonal events happening in Birmingham.
