Five Festive Things to Do in Auburn-Opelika This Holiday Season

If Hallmark were to scout an Alabama location to film, Auburn-Opelika would, without a doubt, be the winner. Each town has it’s own unique and festive medley of events, combining new and old traditions and often times earning a mention in national publications (cough, cough: Southern Living). Auburn, the Loveliest Village on the Plains, leans into their ties with the University, with photo op spots with Aubie flying off the digital shelves faster than flat screen TVs during a Walmart Black Friday sale circa 2010. Opelika shines brightly as the home of Alabama’s tallest Christmas tree (only 4 feet shorter than the Rockefeller Center tree) & a notable destination for the Victorian Front Porch Tour.

Its no secret that Christmas is my favorite holiday. I’m always eager to share the festive joy, so I’ve put together a list of festive events to attend this holiday season in Auburn-Opelika!

From snowball fights (fake snow because: Alabama) to local shopping, there’s something special for everyone to enjoy.

FIVE things to do in Auburn-Opelika this holiday season

1. Attend SNOPELIKA & The Opelika Tree Lighting Ceremony || December 6th

Opelika hosts their signature kickoff to Christmas event in Downtown Opelika, with a holiday parade, an appearance from Santa Claus, snowfall, snowball fights and the official Christmas tree lighting ceremony! FUN FACT: Opelika will have the TALLEST Christmas tree in Alabama, standing 72 feet tall.

2. The Victorian Front Porch Tour || December 13-17th

In the Opelika Historic District, homes are decked out with life-size Santas, angels, toys, carousel horses, and all kinds of Christmas decorations. You can walk or drive through to take in the sights! The Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour is a favorite holiday event in the Southeast and has even been featured in Better Homes and Gardens and Southern Living.

3. Auburn's Gingerbread Village || December 8th - January 1st

Get ready for East Alabama’s biggest Gingerbread Village display, debuting Sunday, December 8, inside the Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center—right after the Auburn Downtown Christmas Parade! This holiday masterpiece is crafted with over 250 pounds of gingerbread and 130 pounds of icing, showcasing a charming, mini replica of Auburn’s most iconic landmarks. It's a must-see festive treat that brings the magic of Auburn to life in the sweetest way!

4. Try a Festive Cocktail || Ongoing...

Sip on a festive cocktail at some of Auburn-Opelika's best spots! I love trying out the new holiday cocktail menus around town. Many spots around town offer a seasonal cocktail menu full of creative drinks that capture the holiday spirit (pictured: The Laurel, Zazu Gastropub & Acre). For a fun twist, head to The Collegiate and rent a Boozy Bubble with friends, where you can sip on holiday cocktails in a cozy, private setting.

5. Shop Local & Keep the Cheer Here || Now - December 24th

Support local this holiday season by participating in the Opelika Chamber's "Keep the Cheer Here" campaign! From November 10th to December 24th, shop and dine at participating Opelika businesses to earn entries for a chance to win exciting prizes. Three grand prize winners will be selected: one random winner, one for the person who spends the most, and one for the person who visits the most businesses. Be sure to check out the Opelika Chamber's website for more information & an interactive map to discover all the participating spots!

What’s your favorite holiday tradition?