10 of the Best Things to Do in Gulf Shores in December

Are you dreaming of a white-sand Christmas? Perhaps you need a warm-weather escape from the frigid temperatures of your hometown. With fewer crowds, lower rates, and mild weather, winter is one of the best times of the year to visit the Alabama Gulf Coast! Keep reading to learn about some of the best things to do in Gulf Shores in December and during the holiday season. There are plenty of festive activities and Christmas events for the whole family to enjoy! 

When it comes to finding a home away from home for the holidays in Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, and Orange Beach, Harris Vacation Rentals has you covered. Browse our list of gorgeous vacation rentals and find the perfect one for your group. 

Top 10 Things To Do in Gulf Shores in December 

From ice skating to boat parades to holiday celebrations, there are so many fun-filled things to do in Gulf Shores in December.   

1. Christmas Lights at Bellingrath Gardens 

If you’ve never visited Bellingrath Gardens and Home during the Christmas season, you are missing out on the experience of a lifetime! There are over three million twinkling lights and 15 holiday scenes spread throughout the 65-acre estate. As stroll through the gardens and past the Bellingrath Home that are completely decked out for the holidays, you’ll be dazzled by the phenomenal display.  

2. Gulf Shores Christmas Parade 

One of the most beloved December traditions in Gulf Shores is the annual Lighted Christmas Parade and Holiday Celebration. Each year on the first Friday of December, the street is lined with festive floats, marching bands, and all your favorite holiday characters. There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit! Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for Santa Claus sightings!  

3. Annual Snowball Drop

Immediately following the Gulf Shores Christmas Parade is the highly-anticipated Snowball Drop, a human-made “blizzard” of over 4000 ping pong balls dropped from above. This family-friendly celebration includes photos with Santa, holiday treats, unique crafts, and more.  

Note: This event has not yet been confirmed for 2020. Be sure to check the event website for up to date details.  

4. Ice Skating at The Wharf

No winter season is complete without a day or night spent on the ice rink! Thankfully, The Wharf in Orange Beach features a fabulous ice-skating rink. Whether you’re celebrating a day out with the family or a romantic date night, grab a pair of skates and brace yourself for an exciting time on the ice.  

5. Holiday Horse and Carriage Rides

Is there anything more magical than a horse-drawn carriage ride beneath the moonlight? When it comes to magical things to do in Orange Beach in December, this should be at the top of your list! Head to The Wharf for an enchanting evening. You’ll trot along the streets and gaze at the holiday lights and decorations with your loved ones. 

6. The Baldwin Pops Christmas Concert

There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by listening to a concert with all your favorite traditional Christmas tunes! The Baldwin Pops is an organization of volunteer musicians whose mission is to share music in a concert band format free of charge to Baldwin County citizens, and each year they perform in a highly-anticipated holiday concert.  Seats are first-come, first-served, so we suggest arriving early! 

Note: This event has not yet been confirmed for 2020. Be sure to check the event website for up to date details.   

7. Christmas Lighted Boat Parade

Did you know that Gulf Shores hosts one of the largest holiday boat parades in the Southeast? The Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade occurs on the second Saturday of December 13th from 5 P.M. until 8:30 P.M. Line up and watch more than 45 decorated vessels sail along the Intracoastal Waterway. 

8. Holiday Shopping

You can cross everyone off your shopping list when you go shopping along the Alabama Gulf Coast. From amazing deals at the Tanger Outlets to specialty boutiques at The Wharf to holiday gifts at the Merry Market, the shopping possibilities are endless!  

9. Flora-Bama Christmas Potluck

If you’re visiting the Alabama Gulf Coast, you must visit the famous Flora Bama Lounge. One of their most popular annual events is their delicious Christmas Potluck. This event is perfect for those that don’t want to stay at home and do all the cooking on the holiday. Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, this potluck is a time for a gathering of friends and family! Bring a covered side dish or dessert to share and enjoy live music while you dine! 

10. Enjoy the Great Outdoors

With uncrowded shorelines and beautiful weather, winter is one of the best times for a Gulf Shores vacation. Many of our first-time guests ask us if you can swim in Gulf Shores in December. The average temperatures range from the low 50’s to mid 60’s during this time of year, which is a bit too chilly for swimming. However, the weather is perfect for strolling the shoreline, golfing, fishing, or simply enjoying the sunshine! 

Make It a December to Remember With Harris Vacation Rentals 

Now that you know about all the best things to do in Gulf Shores in December, it’s time to start planning your trip! If you’re searching for accommodations along the Alabama coastline, Harris Vacation Rentals has got you covered. We offer a wide array of sizeable family-friendly vacation rentals in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. Whether you prefer a pet-friendly rental or a beachfront home, we are sure to have the ideal property for your group!  

Browse our availability and find the perfect property for your holiday beach vacation. We’ll see you soon!