If you’re searching for the kind of Christmas town that feels lifted from a snow globe, HGTV just spotlighted 50 of them in a nationwide roundup of the most charming places to celebrate the holiday. In Alabama, one town’s holiday magic shines the brightest.
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What is the best Christmas town in Alabama?
HGTV’s honor goes to Fairhope, praising the “tiny town perched on the shores of the Gulf Coast” for its postcard-worthy setting and beloved celebrations, which turn it into a holiday hub each year. The network highlighted the Fairhope Magical Christmas Parade, Alabama’s most well-known Christmas parade, as well as the annual Lighting of the Trees, a “seaside spectacle” that draws visitors statewide.
Holiday cheer in Fairhope
Although the much-loved tree lighting and magical parade already kicked off the season, Fairhope’s holiday calendar doesn’t stop there. Here are other Fairhope holiday events to celebrate the holiday season:
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Santa Saturdays: Held on the first and second of December at the Fairhope Museum of History, guests can stop in to see Santa and take a photo with him. The event is from 10:30 a.m. to noon, but plan to arrive as early as 10 a.m., as the line can get long. Plan to bring your own camera for a picture with Santa.
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Christmas at the Grand Hotel Resort and Spa: The resort leans into the holiday season, hosting a variety of events. Visitors can take a walk on the Grand Holiday Stroll, have breakfast with Santa and participate in gingerbread house decorating. All events require a ticket and they sell out fast.
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St. Lawrence Christmas Bazaar: Saturday, Dec. 6 and 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 370 S. Section Street.
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The Nutcracker: The Bay Shore Ballet Academy will host their annual production Dec. 12-13 at the Fairhope Civic Center.
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Drive-Thru Nativity: These events are hosted by various churches, so check with the local church to see if they will be hosting one.
Small town charm meets holiday cheer
Beyond its Christmas events, Fairhope charms visitors with festive boutiques, cozy cafes and waterfront strolls that feel straight out of a holiday postcard. Shoppers can hunt for locally made gifts and holiday décor, pause for a peppermint latte or spiced pie and snap photos of twinkling lights reflecting on the bay.
Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: What AL town is best known for Christmas? Here’s HGTV’s pick