While a white Christmas is ideal for some people, others dream of white sand beaches instead of white snowy trees. For the latter, a visit to these holiday festivals can feed the holiday feeling with sand between their toes. If you’d rather be on the beach this Christmas here are some great festivals around the Gulf Coast to enjoy.
Galveston, Texas
The island of Galveston goes all out around Christmastime. Not only do they have the largest light display on the Gulf Coast but they also host an ice sculpture display at the Moody Gardens. Take a walk on the beach but pack your jacket to walk through the icy exhibit – it’s the best of both worlds. Holiday performances, plays, and musicals are found throughout November and December.
Natchitoches, Louisiana
It isn’t a big city but Natchitoches claim to fame is that it is home to the longest running Christmas festival in the state. On the first Saturday in December each year the city lights up. They also have a boat parade and a fireworks show. Craft shows, a Christmas Gala, and plenty of kids events all fill up the December events calendar in this city.
Alabama
The Bellingrath House in Theodore, AL has hosted for nearly two decades a Christmas lights display. Over 3 million lights and 1000 displays are spread out on the properties 65 acres. The home is open and lit through December and guests can eat dinner at the on-site restaurant, or grab a hot chocolate and walk through the displays. Santa also is on site for photographs. In Huntsville the Galaxy of Lights brings to life animated light displays along a 2.5 mile track.
From a holiday village to dinosaurs and a twinkling icicle villages visitors of all ages will enjoy. Head to Wetumpka on the 13th of December for their Christmas extravaganza. A parade, entertainment, and arts and crafts are just a few of the activities that will be happening at Christmas on the Coosa.
These are just a few of the events that are happening around the Christmas season. Many communities have parades and events that reflect their local traditions and heritage. Christmas in Louisiana you’ll experience Creole traditions, influenced by French heritage, and there’s sure to be delicious food to enjoy! While in Florida you might discover a more laid back approach to the season. Some cities also have traditional Christmas markets that run before the holidays. You can find regional and traditional Christmas specialties for sale – which would make excellent gifts!
If none of this sounds appealing and you simply want to get away from the headaches that can come from the holiday season, there’s no better place than with a beach bungalow. Have your own celebration, light up a palm tree and enjoy the crashing of the ocean waves.
Does your Gulf Coast community cater to Holiday travel? Have you travel to the Gulf Coast area during the winter holidays?
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