5 festive events in Auburn this December—Collinwood Luminaries + more

It’s the most wonderful time of the year once again, which means cheerful holiday events are abundant in Alabama—including The Loveliest Village on the Plains.

If you’re looking for festive fun to get you in the Christmas spirit, keep reading to learn about some of the best upcoming holiday events happening in Auburn this month.

1. Christmas in a Railroad Town

Historic Downtown Opelika is hosting a Christmas event that all ages can enjoy. Even adults can release their inner child by enjoying wagon, trolley and train rides throughout the town.

There will also be a petting zoo and photo booth you can enjoy while sipping hot chocolate and snacking on Christmas goodies.

• Where: 160-120 N 6th St, Opelika, AL 36801
• When: December 8 | 6-9PM
• Price: Free
• More Details
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

2. Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour

This Christmas season, Opelika’s Northside Historic District is celebrating by transforming Victorian and historic homes near downtown Opelika into colorful and nostalgic reminders of Christmas. The tour began in 1993 with just a few homes participating, but it’s grown to include 60 homes. The homes are decorated with a variety of familiar Christmas-themed figures like Santa and angels.

The Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour has been voted one of the Southeast’s top-rated tourism events and has been featured in Better Homes and Gardens and Southern Living.

The event is a self-directed driving tour. However, on Saturday night, the historic streets will be closed to traffic so visitors and neighbors can stroll through the neighborhood. The tour will span over ten city blocks and will let everyone enjoy the homes up close, listen to the carolers and talk with residents dressed in Victorian costumes.

• Where: 201-299 N 8th St, Opelika, AL 36801
• When: December 8-12 | Self-Guided
• Price: Free
• More Details
• Website | Facebook

3. Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express

The Opelika Parks and Recreation Department is hosting the Rocky Brook Reindeer Express at Monkey Park in Opelika.

Train rides will take you through stunning Christmas scenes with thousands of lights and there will be a Christmas Market full of handmade items created by local artists and community members.

To add to the holiday entertainment and excitement, local choirs and performance groups will be performing and Santa will be there for free visits and pictures.

• Where: N 5th St, Opelika, AL 36801
• When: December 14-16 | 5-8PM
• Price: $2 Train rides
• More Details
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4. Collinwood Luminaries

Collinwood Luminaries is a neighborhood event with characters and live animals showing the path to Christ. Driving through this lovely neighborhood by candlelight leads to a live nativity.

The Collinwood Luminaries have become a popular holiday tradition for the residents of Lee County and beyond. Each year, residents of Collinwood have prepared over 1,500 sacks with candles to light the path on the journey to the manger. Along the path, you will see shepherds, wise men, and angels following the star that leads to Christ.

• Where: Collinwood Street, Opelika, AL 36801
• When: December 14-16 | 5-9PM
• Price: Free
• More Details
• Website | Facebook

5. Wreath Workshop at Kreher Park & Nature Preserve

If you love Christmas decor and crafting, then mark your calender for the Wreath Workshop at Kreher Park and Nature Preserve.

During this workshop, you can create your own wreath from natural materials that are provided with the purchase of a ticket.

Led by Cyndi Czerkawski, this event will lead you through the steps of creating and designing a festive wreath for the season in a fun, festive and educational environment.

• Where: 2222 N College St, Auburn, AL 36830
• When: December 17 | 1-3PM
• Price: $20
• More Details
• Purchase tickets here
• Website | Facebook | Instagram

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