Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Light Up the Arts is set to return to the Coastal Arts Center in Orange Beach with a festive evening for the entire community. Organizers say the event will bring together live music, art demonstrations, and holiday activities. Families and friends are invited to attend in holiday cocktail attire. The night is designed as a cheerful kickoff to the season at the arts center.

The annual event will take place on December 11 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Coastal Arts Center. The celebration is free to attend and open to all. Guests are encouraged to mark their calendars and plan for a special evening at the arts center.

Live holiday saxophone music will help set the mood throughout the evening. Visitors can also watch “Hot Glass and Cool Clay” demonstrations, giving them a closer look at how local artists create their work. The hands-on displays are meant to highlight the creative process in a festive setting. As a special treat, Santa Claus is scheduled to make an appearance during the event visit to spread joy and offer a Christmas photo opportunity.

Refreshments will be a major part of the celebration. As a co-host of the event, the Friends Of The Arts will provide a festive wine bar and delicious holiday hors d'oeuvres. A cozy hot chocolate bar will be available for those who prefer a warm, nonalcoholic treat. 

Light Up the Arts will also include raffles and gift shop specials throughout the night. Attendees can browse the arts center’s shop for holiday gifts and local artwork. As part of the event, the Coastal Arts Center will feature its 2025 Limited Edition Ornament. Each year a new collectible keepsake ornament is crafted by the glass artists in The Hot Shop and the pieces can only be purchased at the Coastal Arts Center which is open Monday - Friday 9:00-4:00.

Event hosts encourage guests to dress in their favorite holiday cocktail attire to match the festive atmosphere at the Coastal Arts Center.  The City of Orange Beach and the Friends of the Arts always enjoy offering this Light Up the Arts holiday celebration for residents and visitors alike, and the fun starts at 5:30pm.