December on the Gulf Coast is a time of pure holiday magic. With a plethora of events ranging from concerts to tree lightings and more, residents and visitors alike can immerse themselves in the spirit of the season. Each day brings a new opportunity to give back, create memories, and celebrate in true coastal fashion.

Uncover the Gulf Coast's December Holiday Extravaganza

Monday, December 2nd - Spreading Holiday Cheer with a Free Concert and Toy Drive

Get ready to kick off December with a heartwarming event - a free concert and toy drive for Toys for Tots. This seventy-seven-year-old charitable effort, adopted by the Marine Corps and now a beloved nonprofit, offers a chance to give back and bring a smile to every child's face. The Baldwin Pops, an instrumental musical group with over 80 members, will perform a wide range of music including classical, Broadway, big band, dixieland, jazz, and marches. The concert starts at 7 PM at the Foley Civic Center. Arrive early with your unwrapped toy to secure a spot and enjoy a special Christmas treat.The Foley Civic Center - Free Concert - Toys for Tots407 E Laurel AveFoley, AL 36535The Band | The Baldwin Pops

Tuesday, December 3rd - Whimsical Mini Nutcracker Decorating at the Orange Beach Public Library

At the Orange Beach Public Library, it's FUEL night filled with whimsical wonders. Registration is required for this free event open to 4th-6th graders from 6-7 PM and 7th up to all ages from 7-8 PM. Participants can decorate mini nutcrackers using paint, paint markers, and other craft supplies. Each group has an hour to let their imagination run wild and create unique nutcrackers. Not into crafting? No problem! Head over to the Wharf after or during the event. The Wharf store will be open with a North Pole photo setup featuring Santa from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Watch as Main Street transforms into Reindeer Lane with hot chocolate, a holiday SPECTRA Laser Light Experience show, and Christmas musical performances.The Wharf – Annual OB Christmas Tree Lighting23101 Canal RdOrange Beach, AL 36561The Wharf

Wednesday, December 4th - Musical Delights at Flora-Bama Lounge

Kick back at Flora-Bama Lounge and enjoy the year-round music in all its shapes and sizes. On Wednesdays, Grammy nominated songwriter and entertainer Rhonda Hart, the Smokey Otis Band, Bob Ravenscraft, and Joe Engel hold down the Mainroom. This musically comical lineup is one you'll keep coming back to. If you haven't been yet, start a tradition and become part of the Bamily. Join in the fun-filled talent highlights and brighten your midweek with a merry night.Flora-Bama Lounge and Package17401 Perdido Key DrPerdido Key, FL 36561FLORA-BAMA LIVE MUSIC

Thursday, December 5th - The 9th Annual Snowball Drop for Community Christmas

Get ready for a man-made blizzard of 8,000 ping pong balls at the 9th Annual Snowball Drop for Community Christmas. Thanks to generous sponsors, this event is free and comes with prizes. As the snowballs drop and the fun begins, you'll have a chance to win with both blank and marked snowballs. Various local sponsors have donated wrapped gifts in an effort to generate community spirit. Along with the main event, there are plenty of Christmas activities for the whole family. Santa will be available for photos, and there will be holiday treats and crafts. Feel free to bring coolers, chairs, and blankets for a comfortable evening under the stars with family and friends.Johnnie Sims Park348 W 19th AveGulf Shores, AL 36542Community Christmas at Sims Park | Gulf Shores, AL – Official Website

Friday, December 6th - Ugly Christmas Sweater Party at Tacky Jacks

It's ugly Christmas sweater season at Tacky Jacks in Orange Beach. Show up in your most hideous holiday sweater and enter the contest for amazing prizes. From 4 PM to 7 PM, there will be happy hour with appetizer specials, music, and dancing. The bar and full menu will be open as usual. Bring your crew and get ready for a night of laughter, cheer, and bad fashion. The contest kicks off at 5 PM, so don't be late.Tacky Jack’s27206 Safe Harbor DrOrange Beach, AL 36561Locations – Orange Beach — Tacky Jacks Seafood Restaurant and Tavern

Saturday, December 7th - The Polar Express and Christmas Fun in Town

Buckle up for the Polar Express as it sprinkles Christmas magic around town. Start with the Annual Parade hosted by The Kiwanis Club in Foley, bringing joy and merriment since 1963. Then, head to Heritage Park for "Let it Snow," a beach kid's dream come true. The marketplace will open early and be decked out all day. Kids can play in the Alabama Gulf Coast snow, participate in other merry activities, and listen to live entertainment until 2 PM. The Coastal Ballet Academy will perform the Nutcracker at the Orange Beach Performing Arts Center at 2 PM. Tickets are on sale now and will be sold at the door until capacity is reached. Don't miss the last chance to see this timeless holiday favorite. After that, head to the Graham Creek Christmas Trail for more memories. Tickets cost $5 and include photos with Santa, hot chocolate, coffee, and sweet delights. There will also be "snow" and "fobbles" (bubbles + fog) for added ambiance.Foley Christmas ParadeLet It Snow – Visit FoleyThe Graham Creek Christmas Trail

Sunday, December 8th - Brunch at BuzzCatz Coffee and Sweets

BuzzCatz Coffee and Sweets is gaining acclaim as the best breakfast in Alabama for its fresh cinnamon buns. That's why they've dubbed Sunday "Cinnamon roll Sunday," making it the perfect brunch location. Other popular menu items include savory options like the Hollah, waffles (both savory and sweet), quiche, and the "KittenHead biscuit." Don't forget to try their fresh coffee, available in bean bags for takeout or as a stocking stuffer or teacher gift. The baristas can make any drink you desire, and the serving team will take care of the rest. Whether you dine inside, on the deck, or take it home for carry-out, this local gem is worth a visit.BuzzCatz Coffee and Sweets25753 Canal Rd Suite BCosmo’s CourtyardOrange Beach, AL 36561BuzzCatz Coffee & Sweets