A Coastal Christmas Countdown: Festive Fun and More
Your daily guide to holiday cheer, family fun, worship, and Gulf Coast winter adventures.
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Christmas week has officially arrived on the coast, bringing with it special moments to cherish. From the thrill of last-minute shopping and vibrant light displays to meaningful candlelight services, Christmas Day traditions, and outdoor adventures after the wrapping paper has been cleared away, this week has something for everyone. Whether you're visiting for the holidays or enjoying the season as a local, here’s your daily guide to making the most of December coastal style.
Monday, December 22nd-
The week we’ve all been waiting for is finally here—only three more days until Christmas morning! If you still have some last-minute shopping to do, The Wharf in Orange Beach is the perfect place to accomplish that while spending a fun-filled day with the family. The Ice Skating Rink will open early for shoppers, allowing you to glide around the ice before warming up with some hot cocoa. After that you can take a ride on the Ferris Wheel or visit The Wharf store to meet Santa and capture a memorable photo. Be sure to stay until after dusk for the special Holiday Spectra Laser Light Show, which will light up the night with festive colors and music. To continue the holiday spirit, take a stroll through the 3rd Annual Merry Memories Tinsel Trail display at Orange Beach Waterfront Park. Enjoy the beautifully lit trees dedicated to cherished memories, and let the kids blow off some steam at the park before dinner. Just a short distance away, GT’s on the Bay is a fantastic place to conclude your Christmas family fun day. Dine inside while enjoying lighter music or take in the ambiance on the outdoor covered deck, complete with a kids play area and refreshing bay breezes. The menu offers various options, from fresh seafood to steak and oven-baked pizzas, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Happy Holiday Week!
Related article on Merry Tinsel Trail
Tuesday, December 23rd-
As the holiday shopping season reaches its peak, Tanger Outlet in Foley is set to offer various promotions and extended hours of operation, highlighted by a special last-minute appearance from Santa Claus. Many retailers are providing exciting incentives to boost consumer engagement, including a $25 discount on purchases over $100, buy-one-get-one (BOGO) deals on footwear, and a tiered discount of 20% on select single items for more check out deals on their website. Santa's visit offers families an excellent opportunity to capture festive moments through photos, with options available for pets as well. Additionally, a playground area is located adjacent to the food court, allowing children to play and snack while their parents take a break. After shopping, families are encouraged to explore downtown Foley, where a comprehensive Christmas-themed experience awaits. The town is beautifully adorned with festive lighting, and Heritage Park has been transformed into a winter wonderland, featuring various holiday-themed decorations, including illuminated trees and a Christmas village. Convenient parking is available along the park's edges, making it easy to access this immersive environment. To wrap up the evening, consider taking a neighborhood drive to see the holiday lights on your way to dine at the newly opened Doc's location on County Road 20, adding a delightful culinary option to your festive itinerary.
Christmas Magic Downtown Foley
Wednesday, December 24th-
Orange Beach is brightening up this Christmas Eve with several candlelight services to choose from. The Island Church will hold its traditional candlelight service, inviting families with children of all ages to join together in the main sanctuary. There are three service times available: 2 PM, 3:30 PM, and 5 PM. Worship on the Water will host its annual Christmas Eve service at their CoastAL location this year, featuring a beachfront candlelight setting starting at 4:30 PM. Meanwhile, Central Church will offer an evening candlelight service at Portside at The Wharf, complete with cookies and cocoa. Caroling will start around 4:30 at St. Thomas By the Sea with mass immediately following. Consider checking out one of these local gatherings or other nearby offerings online to find the perfect place to celebrate and hold a candle for the light of the world.
Worship on the Water @ CoastAL
Thursday, December 25th-
Merry Christmas, everyone! If you're looking for a fantastic place to celebrate this wonderful day, look no further than Flora-Bama. Here, friends become Bamily, and first-time visits quickly turn into cherished traditions. Whether you’re new to the area, just passing through, or already part of Flora-Bama’s Christmas Day celebration, you're invited to join in for the festivities. Come by anytime between 9:00 and 11:00 AM to bring a covered dish to share. The celebrations will kick off with delicious food starting at 11 AM. As always, Flora-Bama will be serving up turkey and ham, and drinks will be available on-site. Enjoy live music throughout the day as they fill the air with Christmas cheer, share great food, and create wonderful memories together. The Flora-Bama family can't wait to celebrate with you! What better way to enjoy a coastal Christmas than with a view of the salty white sandy shores and a friendly crew?
Flora-Bama Christmas Potluck 2025
Friday, December 26th- 'Twas the day after Christmas, and all through the house, all the creatures were stirring, even the mouse! This time of year often brings a surge of restlessness, especially for families dealing with the aftermath of a busy holiday season. Despite any chilly weather, it’s an ideal opportunity to take advantage of outdoor spaces that encourage physical activity. Consider visiting the beach, setting up a comfortable environment with blankets and snacks, and engaging in fun activities like playing ball, shell hunting, and soaking up the sun to get essential vitamin D. If the sandy beach isn’t your preference, consider visiting Gulf State Park. We recommend exploring the extensive trail systems on foot or by renting a bike within the park, which are accessible from both Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. This area features the Back Country Trail, which has been recognized by USA Today as one of the top hiking destinations. Such natural environments promote physical health and well-being by allowing families to move while observing local plants and animals and appreciating the sounds of birds, among other things. For those who prefer a somewhat more structured indoor environment to burn off excess energy, venues like The Factory in Gulf Shores offer a wide range of fun activities, including jumping, climbing, batting cages, and games. This facility meets the high-energy needs of children while ensuring a safe space for them to engage in vigorous activities, allowing parents to participate or observe. Overall, the Gulf Coast region offers a diverse array of recreational opportunities—both in natural and built environments—enabling families to break free from the typical holiday lethargy and promote an active, healthy lifestyle.
Saturday, December 27th-
Get ready for an action-packed Saturday morning on the Gulf Coast! Kickstart your day with some fun and fitness at the annual “Let’s Make It To The Line Run/Walk,” hosted by the Flora-Bama, starting bright and early at 9 AM. Whether you're walking or sprinting, it’s the perfect way to shake off those holiday calories and get your adrenaline pumping! But the excitement doesn’t stop there! The Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen's Market in Foley is open from 9 AM to 2 PM, where you can explore an incredible array of local treasures. From sweet honey and fresh fruits to mouthwatering seafood and artisan goodies, there’s something for everyone. As the sun sets, gear up for an unforgettable night. The electric funk, soul, and fusion band Funky Lap Shades will be taking the stage at the Under Tow in Orange Beach, kicking off their live performance at 10 PM. Don’t miss out on this fantastic blend of music that’s sure to keep you dancing all night long.
Sunday, December 28th-
Are you ready to prepare for your next fishing trip? Look no further than Sam’s Bait and Tackle, conveniently located near Orange Beach Waterfront Park. This prime spot allows little anglers or newcomers to try out fishing from the dock while capturing memorable family photos with all the on-site setups and aiming for impressive catches. Sam’s offers a wide selection of fishing supplies, including high-quality rods, reels, tackle, and bait, perfect for both novice and experienced fishermen. Additionally, they offer performance apparel, along with convenience items to ensure a successful outing. If you find yourself without essential gear this season, using your holiday gifted funds at Sam’s is a wise choice by keeping it local and reviving up community spirit. Whether you’re planning to set off from a marina, dock, or pier, or heading to a secluded fishing hole by boat, Sam’s Bait and Tackle has everything you need to ensure your trip is successful. So, don’t hold back - stop by Sam’s this Sunday to explore their current inventory and take advantage of their leftover sales. Support local businesses while you gear up, and finish the year on a high note. Happy fishing!
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