Community Christmas

The City of Gulf Shores is kicking off the holiday season with a new Community Christmas experience, bringing festive activities to multiple City facilities throughout the heart of Gulf Shores. Residents and visitors can enjoy pictures with Santa, carriage rides, holiday treats, crafts, and activities hosted by local businesses and community organizations. 

Christmas Tree lighting will take place at the Gulf Shores Public Library at 5:45 p.m.

Click here to view the flyer. 

Here's What's Happening Beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Carriage Rides
Carriage rides will start and stop on Clubhouse Drive between the Mayor's Office and City Hall. See event map for details.

Pictures with Santa – Erie H. Meyer Civic Center
Visit Santa and enjoy a balloon artist, holiday activities, and games hosted by local businesses and organizations. Emerson Farms will also offer camel rides outside the Civic Center.

Christmas Tree Lighting – Gulf Shores Public Library (5:45 p.m.)
Gather with family and friends for the annual Christmas tree lighting, featuring Christmas carols performed by the Gulf Shores Elementary School Choir.

Vintage Christmases of Gulf Shores Past – Museum
Enjoy a historic holiday celebration featuring a meet-and-greet with Mrs. Claus, cookies and punch, traditional bead-garland making, and a Christmas Village among the museum's historic exhibits. Each guest will receive a quilted 250th Memorial ornament, and children will receive a wooden toy top. Enjoy holiday music by the Bridge Handbells from First Baptist Church Gulf Shores.

Whoville Storytime – Gulf Shores Public Library
Visit a whimsical Whoville where families can meet the Whos, enjoy storytime every 30 minutes, and receive a copy of I Am the Grinch, reindeer food, Grinch-themed crafts, and cotton candy. The Grinch will also make a special appearance!

City Hall – Holiday Activities
- North Lobby: Decorate a mini graham cracker gingerbread house with Public Works, enjoy a Christmas charcuterie board and hot cocoa bar, meet the Gingerbread Man, and visit the IT Department's Angel Tree.
- South Lobby (Inside): Follow the yellow brick road for Wizard of Oz-themed games, candy bags, and prizes with Human Resources.
- South Lobby (Outside): Celebrate the Polar Express with a keepsake bell-ribbon craft and popcorn hosted by Community Programs.
Fire Station 1
Enjoy a hot chocolate bar and create a festive holiday craft to take home.

Police Station
Visit the Gulf Shores Police Department's Command Bus, make a fingerprint ornament, and enjoy a warm bowl of chili served by local officers.