Huntsville knows how to make the holidays magical. From twinkling light displays and cozy mugs of cocoa to festive markets and skating under the stars, the Rocket City comes alive with yuletide cheer.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, romantic date ideas, or creative ways to celebrate with friends, there’s no shortage of things to do around town this November and December. Ready to soak up the Christmas spirit? This Huntsville holiday bucket list has all the must-do experiences to make your season sparkle.
Photo credit: Sparrow Digital Media
Ice Skate Under the Stars
Slide across the ice under the stars at Skating in the Park in Downtown Huntsville. The rink is hosted by the Huntsville Museum of Art in Big Spring Park and is open from the weekend before Thanksgiving through the first weekend of January. An on-site concession stand offers hot cocoa and snacks like popcorn, soft pretzels, and cotton candy.
Walk Through the Lights at the Botanical Garden
Galaxy of Lights at the Huntsville Botanical Garden is a must-see Huntsville holiday experience. The garden transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland with sparkling light displays to drive or walk through. On walking nights, you can stroll under arched tunnels of lights, spin under swirling snow, and sip hot chocolate from the Cocoa Castle.
Craft Your Own Gifts at Lowe Mill
Homemade presents get an upgrade when you tap in the pros at Lowe Mill, where 300-plus artists and makers are on hand to share their skills. The old textile mill turned art center has over 150 working studios with unique pieces for sale and artist-led crafting classes.
For the easiest gift options, you can shop directly from the galleries. Or, for a truly DIY experience, make a gift in one of the classes on blacksmithing, painting, rug tufting, candle pouring, and more. If you’re shopping for someone artsy, you can also gift them a class where they’ll learn a new skill.
Shop a Local Holiday Market
Huntsville's holiday market season starts in early November and runs through Christmas week, offering lots of opportunities to shop local, whether you’re planning ahead or grabbing last-minute gifts. More than a handful of markets are scheduled this season, including the Holiday Market at MidCity, Christkindlmarkt Huntsville at the Orion, Christmas Market on the Village Green at Clift Farm, and the Winter Solstice Market at Lowe Mill. Check the schedule to see what’s coming up next.
Dine in a Historic Mansion at Burritt
Dreaming of an old-fashioned holiday? Burritt on the Mountain has the perfect recipe. December’s Holiday Magic Dinners take place in the 1930s mansion and include a five-course meal, caroling by Huntsville’s Master Chorale, and a visit from Father Christmas.
The historic venue also offers a Candlelight Christmas experience in early December with old-timey holiday activities like popcorn stringing, ornament making, and chestnut roasting and the Sanders Family Christmas Play later in the month at Burritt’s Old Country Church.
Run From Krampus
He may have originated in Central European folklore, but Krampus shows up in Huntsville each holiday season for the Krampus 5K Run at Ditto Landing. Lace your shoes up tight — the run may be fun, but you’ll want to move fast to avoid the horned creature with a birch rod chasing you.
Tour Town by Luminary Light
What’s better than a historic walking tour? A luminary-lit, holiday-themed tour, of course! During the Twickenham Spirit of Christmas Past Homes and Luminaries Tour, streets throughout the historic neighborhood are lined with lights and a select few homes open their doors for a peek inside. It’s the perfect opportunity to check out all the classic holiday decorations on an evening stroll.
Order a Cheery Holiday Drink
Huntsville knows how to mix a holiday drink, whether it’s a peppermint-infused cocktail or a warm cocoa from a cozy coffee shop. Special Christmas menus pop up all around town at local bars and cafes during this season. Check out our list of holiday cocktails and mocktails and cozy warm drinks for ideas.