15 Things to Do this Christmas Around Lake Guntersville

It may sound cliche, but it really is the MOST wonderful time of the year! You may think of the Lake Guntersville, Alabama area as a summer destination, but at Christmastime it truly is magical. From Christmas Open Houses to millions of Christmas lights, there is something for everyone to do when you choose to #explorelakeguntersville this holiday season.

1. Santa in the Village

Starting Black Friday, the Arab Historic Village comes to life with Santa in the Village. For four consecutive weekends, guests can experience Christmas magic at the Village. You can meet Saint Nick, grab reindeer food and even see blacksmiths work on reindeer shoes. There is no cost for this. For complete information, click here.

2. Christmas in the Park

Adjacent to Santa in the Village is Christmas in the Park. Walk through the Arab City Park for free and enjoy over two million twinkling lights decorated to bring the most holiday cheer. Christmas in the Park is open from November 28 through December 31. The lights turn on nightly from sundown until 9:30 p.m. weather permitting.

3. Dashing through Downtown Boaz

The Downtown Boaz area will come to life on December 12 and 13. Explore vendors throughout downtown Boaz, indulge in food trucks, and bring the children to visit with Santa Claus himself. Fridays hours are 4 – 8 p.m. and Saturdays hours are 11 a.m. until 8 p.m.

4. Downtown Albertville’s Christmas Open House

On November 20 through 22, Downtown Albertville turns into holiday cheer! There will be carriage rides through town, cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus and, of course, lots of shopping in the local shops. Join the fun on November 20 with their Thanksgiving/Christmas parade at 5:30 p.m.  And shop till you drop at their Holiday open house on Saturday, November 22 all day long in their downtown.

5. Tree Lightings

Who doesn’t love a giant tree being lit to kick off the holiday season? Downtown Albertville will do theirs following their Thanksgiving/Christmas parade on November 20. Downtown Guntersville’s tree will be lit on December 2 at 5:30 p.m. The City Harbor will light their tree on November 20 at 6 p.m. Downtown Boaz will have their tree lighting on December 5 following their Christmas parade.

6. Christmas Parades

Each of our wonderful cities are hosting their own Christmas parades. Albertville’s is planned for November 20 at 5:30 p.m. Boaz will have theirs on December 5 at 5:30 p.m. Arab’s parade will kick off at 6 p.m. on December 4. And Guntersville’s Christmas parade will be December 13 at 5 p.m. The Guntersville boat parade will be held at 5:15 p.m. at City Harbor on November 20.

7. Night Before Christmas in Downtown Guntersville

Downtown Guntersville’s main shopping event is planned for December 6 from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. All shops will be open as well as free entertainment for the children in your lives including train rides, face painting and more! Attendees can also see a live Bethlehem, too!

8. State Park Events

We are home to three state parks, and they are all booming with exciting events this holiday season. From outdoor hikes to campfire talks and craft time as well. Grab your boots and jackets and enjoy the outdoors this season. Click here for our event calendar with details. 

9. Festival of Trees

The Guntersville Museum has some of the most beautiful display of Christmas trees. Each year local organizations bring their own Christmas trees and decorate them to a theme. This year the display will be open from November 21 until January 5. This is free to the public.

10. Christmas Play at the Whole Backstage

In celebration with their 51st year, the Whole Backstage Theatre is hosting two Christmas plays this season. It’s a Wonderful Life will be playing November 28, 29, and 30 and December 4, 5, 6, and 7, 2025. They are also hosting the Crooner Christmas from December 18 through the 21.

11. Frazier Farms

You are in for a treat with the stunning Christmas light display at Frazier Farms in Albertville. Drive up from the comfort of your car and tune your radio in to catch the lights dancing to the songs playing. This kicks off November 28 and lasts until December 31.

12. Hot Chocolate at Four Knights Coffee

If you plan on walking through Christmas in the Park, then you must grab a hot chocolate first. Four Knights Coffee in Arab has some of the best hot drinks that will keep you warm this holiday season as well as yummy treats to snack on as well.

13. Tinsel Trail at the Old Mill Park

The Old Mill Park has some of the most cheerful Christmas trees from local businesses and organizations lined up within the walking trail. It is free to head over to see what unique ideas came through on their trees. You have until the end of December to see them.

14. Shopping at Cherrywood Market

The Cherrywood Market has some of the sweetest holiday decor for your home. From linens to garland and platters too. You can find a small piece to bring back to your home for the season.

15. MVAC’s Holiday Art Market

The Mountain Valley Arts Council hosts a Holiday Art Market every year at Christmastime. Over 25 artists will have their pieces on display for purchase. Make plans to head over to see what you could bring home to a loved one this season.