There’s no time like the holidays, and in Gulf Shores, they don’t hold back when it comes to festive fun. Check out these 5 activities happeing in Gulf Shores this season that you absolutely have to add to your Christmas to-do list.

1. Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip

After celebrating New Year’s Eve at Flora-Bama, try this new year tradition—taking a deep-freeze plunge into the Gulf of Mexico with a thousand other people.

The Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip happens on New Years Day at Noon all along the gulf coast. Groups and families are encouraged to wear fun costumes, swimsuits, wetsuits, or whatever they like to take the plunge.

Those who go all the way under will get a free draft beer and a free New Year’s lunch of ham, black-eyed peas, greens, and cornbread from Flora-Bama.

Location: 17401 Perdido Key Dr, Pensacola, FL 32507
Date: Jan. 1, 2022 I Noon-3PM
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2. See Christmas Lights at Bellingrath Gardens

Visting the Bellingrath Gardens should be a must-do activity on your Christmas agenda if you live near Gulf Shores. Explore the grounds and see over three million twinkling lights and 15-holiday scenes spread throughout the 65-acre estate. Don’t forget to take a tour of the historic home while you’re there and find Santa in the Magnolia Room.

Location: 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd, Theodore, AL 36582
Dates: Now-Jan. 5, 2022 I 5:30-9PM
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3. Catch the Christmas Lighted Boat Parade

Gulf Shores is hosting their annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade this Saturday, December 13, and you won’t want to miss it. This sparkling procession will start at 5PM from Lulu’s in Gulf Shores and end at The Wharf. The boats will be visible from the canal stretching between Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Start Location: 200 E 25th Ave, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
End Location: 23101 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Date: Dec. 13 I 5PM

4. Ice Skating at the Wharf

Nothing screams holidays like ice skating. It’s in nearly every Hallmark Christmas movie after all. To participate in this classic Christmas activity, visit The Wharf in Gulf Shores this December. Check their schedule to see skate times throughout the month.

Location: 23101 Canal Rd, Orange Beach, AL 36561
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5. Flora-Bama Christmas Potluck

The Flora-Bama Beach Bar is putting on their annual holiday potluck on Christmas Day. Eat, drink and be merry on the Florida/Alabama state line.

Turkey and ham will be provided by the Flora-Bama, but the rest of the sides and fixings are up to the guests. Bring your best dish and share a feast and great conversation with your community.