The holiday season is upon us once again! To get into a festive mood, we collected some of the most popular holiday activities around the Huntsville and Madison area. From lights to skating to fun holiday plays, there’s bound to be something in town that catches your eye! 

After surveying multiple people on which holiday activities they would be interested in attending, the top-voted option was the Galaxy of Lights. The Galaxy of Lights is open starting November 11th and will close on January 1st. For over 25 years, the Huntsville Botanical Garden has welcomed visitors to explore the magnificent light displays at the Galaxy of Lights. Although walking nights have ended, driving nights are still available to see the stunning lights. For pricing information, go to https://hsvbg.org/galaxy/

Skating in the Park was another very popular option. Skating in the Park is located behind the Huntsville Museum of Art. Glide across the ice in the picturesque area adjacent to Big Spring International Park. The skating rink opened on November 19th and closes on January 17th.

For a more laid-back event, try the Holiday Light Show at Bridge Street. Gather around the giant Christmas tree and watch the dancing lights. You can visit December 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, and 18, with times ranging from 6 p.m to 8 p.m. Watch this enchanting light show before it’s too late!

Stuck with kids over the weekend? Take them to Nights of Santa! This classic event has been slightly altered to fit COVID-19 precautions. You can meet with costumed characters, experiment with holiday activities, and enjoy the nightly snowfalls. This event is located at the EarlyWorks Children’s Museum, taking place from December 13 to December 23. On weekdays, it opens at 5 p.m, and on weekends, it opens at 3 p.m.

Our personal recommendation would be the Tinsel Trail. They have a wide variety of Christmas trees from different businesses that are a fun sight to see! Take a walk around downtown Huntsville and enjoy the wide variety of trees provided by local corporations, groups, and families. You can even reserve your own tree! This is a free event available 24/7, so make sure to visit before January 2.

Other available holiday activities are the Holiday Light Show and Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Redstone Arsenal Activity Field, ‘A Christmas Carol’ performed at Fantasy Playhouse, Rocket City Christmas Lights Show, Spirit of Christmas Past Home Tour, Santa Train Ride, and Christmas Lights Fun Run hosted by Fleet Feet.

Thanks to the wide variety of events taking place, there’s sure to be something to keep you entertained and excited for this holiday season: light shows, children’s events, plays, and more. Stay safe and healthy while having fun for the holidays!