Fort Morgan, Alabama might be known for its beautiful beaches and historical landmarks, but during the holiday season, this beautiful coastal destination comes alive with festive spirit. Whether you’re visiting for a short getaway or spending the entire holiday season here, Fort Morgan offers a variety of family-friendly events and activities that bring holiday magic to life. Explore some of the top holiday events in Fort Morgan that are sure to make your visit unforgettable.
The Top Holiday Events in Fort Morgan
The Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade is one of the Gulf Coast’s most anticipated holiday events. This unique celebration features boats of all shapes and sizes adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations as they sail along the Intracoastal Waterway. Families can enjoy this dazzling spectacle from various vantage points, including LuLu’s at Homeport Marina or Flora-Bama, making it a fun event for all ages. Whether you’re a local or visiting, the holiday lights on the water create a magical holiday atmosphere.
Magic Christmas Lights at Bellingrath Gardens and Home
For a truly enchanting holiday experience, head to the Magic Christmas Lights at Bellingrath Gardens and Home. This stunning 65-acre estate transforms into a winter wonderland, showcasing more than three million lights and over a thousand intricate set pieces. Visitors can stroll through lighted pathways, admire the illuminated trees, and enjoy beautifully decorated garden scenes. The breathtaking beauty of Bellingrath Gardens, combined with the holiday magic of the lights, makes this a must-visit event for families. It’s the perfect way to spend an evening soaking in the holiday spirit.
Trim-a-Tree Holiday Arts and Crafts Show
If you’re looking to find unique holiday gifts and festive decorations, the Trim-a-Tree Holiday Arts and Crafts Show at Tanger Outlets in nearby Foley is the perfect destination. This annual event features over 200 local vendors offering handmade crafts, ornaments, and holiday-themed items. From one-of-a-kind jewelry to custom holiday décor, there’s something for everyone. It’s a great opportunity to support local artisans while finding special keepsakes to take home or give as gifts.
Winter at The Wharf
For those who love a little outdoor fun, Winter at The Wharf in Orange Beach is the place to be. The Wharf hosts an ice skating rink, giving visitors the chance to lace up their skates and glide around, even in the heart of Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Open on select evenings and weekends, this seasonal ice rink is a family favorite and a great way to embrace the holiday season with a little wintertime activity. After skating, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa and explore the festive holiday lights and displays throughout The Wharf.
Tips for Enjoying the Holidays in Fort Morgan
Spending the holidays in Fort Morgan offers a unique coastal experience, and a few tips can help you make the most of it. Pack layers, as the weather can range from cool to mild, especially in the evenings. Take advantage of the smaller crowds during this season by exploring the local beaches and attractions without the usual hustle. Be sure to plan for holiday-specific events, as many local festivities add a charming Southern holiday feel to your trip.
Book Your Holiday Rental with Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals
After a day of holiday fun, there’s nothing better than retreating to a cozy vacation rental where you can relax and enjoy the rest of your stay. At Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals, we offer a wide range of affordable, luxury properties in Fort Morgan, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach. Whether you’re visiting with your significant other, a group of friends, or the entire family, we have the perfect vacation rental to suit your needs.
Our properties include a variety of amenities such as balconies, fitness rooms, tennis courts, saunas, and beach access, ensuring you’ll have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Many of our rentals are conveniently located near popular attractions, shopping centers, and golf courses, allowing you to enjoy all the best that Fort Morgan has to offer while still feeling like you’re far away from the hustle and bustle.
Plan Your Holiday Getaway to Fort Morgan
Fort Morgan is the perfect holiday destination for families, couples, and friends looking to escape the cold and celebrate the season in a warm, festive atmosphere. From the spectacular Christmas boat parades to the twinkling lights of Bellingrath Gardens, there’s no shortage of holiday magic to experience. Contact us to book your stay with Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals today and start planning your unforgettable holiday adventure! Browse our rentals by amenity here.
Get ready for a laid-back coastal Christmas in Gulf Shores! Instead of snow and cold, you’ve got sunshine and sandy beaches! What are your plans for Christmas dinner during your time in Gulf Shores. You’ve gotta eat after all! This guide to Christmas dinner in Gulf Shores is sure to help you find delicious options for Christmas dinner, whether you’re wanting to dine in, take out, or even prepare it yourself! Gulf Shores has plenty of options to make your Gulf Shores Christmas dinner magical.
Louisiana Lagniappe – Orange Beach
Add a bit of Louisiana flair to your Christmas dinner in the heart of Gulf Shores at Louisiana Lagniappe! for its elegant, Gulf Coast-inspired cuisine, this restaurant offers a cozy, stylish setting perfect for a Christmas dinner. Enjoy a variety of meals made from the bounty of the sea with options like Gulf shrimp, crab cakes and even the catch of the day – all cooked to perfection with delicious Creole seasonings and flavors. If you want to chow down at Louisiana Lagniappe this Christmas, you’re going to need reservations.
Perch – Gulf State Park
Christmas dinner from Perch will be a highlight of your holidays. Meals are served up in a trendy restaurant that overlooks the beach. What could be better than Christmas dinner with a view? Make your reservations to enjoy menu items at Perch that may include buttermilk fried chicken, Gulf oysters, and creative seasonal specials that you will love.
Foodcraft Coastal – Gulf State Park
We’re continuing to put the coast in Coastal Christmas, with another seaside restaurant in Gulf Shores. Foodcraft Coastal takes full advantage of its prime beachfront location, and showcases a menu that highlights fresh, local seafood and classic Southern comfort foods! For your Christmas dinner, you might see options like grilled Gulf snapper, creamy shrimp and grits, and mouth-watering sides that’ll have you coming back for more. Reservations are a must here, so be sure to book early to secure a spot at Foodcraft Coastal.
Zeke’s Restaurant – Orange Beach
The holidays are happening at Zeke’s! Come on down to the Zeke’s Marina on Christmas Day for a dinner to remember. Delicious menu options, friendly service and a waterfront view are waiting for you. Their Christmas menu typically features hearty favorites like blackened redfish, seafood pasta, and steak! Their seafood dishes are always fresh and flavorful – so don’t miss Christmas dinner at Zeke’s! Make your reservation today so you can be among the happy holiday eaters.
Cooking Up a Holiday Feast in Your Vacation Rental
If you prefer a home cooked meal for Christmas dinner, that possibility can become reality even on vacation. With a vacation rental from Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals, you can cook up Christmas dinner in a kitchen stocked with all the essential tools and cookware. All that’s missing is your special ingredients, so be sure to stock up at the grocery stores listed below:
- Winn-Dixie: Visit the Gulf Shores location for a great selection of meats, produce and seasonal treats. You’ll find what you need at Winn-Dixie when whipping your favorite family dish.
- Rouses Market: Known for its high-quality ingredients and local selection, Rouses Market in Orange Beach is a great place to shop for your Christmas meal. From holiday hams to fresh seafood, they’ve got you covered. Plus, their bakery and deli offer a hot-line with fresh, ready-made options – perfect for taking a little stress out of your holiday spread.
Just a word of advice—grocery stores might close early on Christmas Eve or have limited hours on Christmas Day, so plan to do your shopping early to avoid missing out or the crazy holiday rush!
Tips for a Stress-Free Christmas in Gulf Shores
- Make Reservations Early: All of the restaurants mentioned require reservations, so call ahead to ensure you have a spot for Christmas dinner.
- Consider Takeout: Some restaurants, including the ones above, may offer takeout or holiday meal packages, perfect for enjoying a gourmet meal in the comfort of your vacation rental. Inquire early, since you may have to submit an order request in ahead of time in order to pick up by Christmas Eve or Day.
Book Your Holiday Stay with Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals
There you have it! The Guide to Christmas dinner in Gulf Shores! Now that you know where to eat, where will you stay? Book the perfect holiday home away from home from Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals. Here you’ll find an excellent selection of comfortable and stylish vacation homes and condos that keep you close to the shores and all the holiday festivities happening in Gulf Shores.
Rentals feature fully equipped kitchens, cozy living spaces, and easy access to these options for Christmas dinners. Book your stay today and get ready for unforgettably delicious holiday memories in Gulf Shores!
When the holidays roll around, you probably picture the quintessential Christmas scene of snowy streets, fireplaces with mantles decorated, and a cozy cup of cocoa nestled in your hand. But what if this year, instead of bundling up in layers and shoveling snow, you traded that all in for a sandy beach, sunshine, and a coastal breeze? Sounds nice, doesn’t it?
Well, this can be your reality when you bring your Christmas plans to the Gulf Shores! Enjoy relaxation and good times by the water, with a stress-free holiday in Gulf Shores. Hosting a holiday gathering here can be as fun and festive as a wintry scene – the perk is that you get bit more sunshine here! Read on to learn how to bring the holiday magic to the beachfront in Gulf Shores, and how you can host the best holidays in Gulf Shores gathering during your stay.
Christmas by the Beach – Why Not?
First of all, let’s talk about how awesome it is to celebrate Christmas at the beach. Sure, you might miss the snowflakes, but you get warm sunshine, balmy breezes, and soft sand between your toes instead! Gulf Shores beaches are beautiful year-round, and during the holidays – it’s even more festive and fun. This year, why not swap out your heavy winter coats and trade them in for flip-flops and shorts! Spend the day by the water, soaking in the views and fresh air, and at night, enjoy the twinkle lights that will keep everyone’s spirits bright. Check out the following beach activities that you can add to your holiday gathering itinerary!
Beach Games with a Twist
Play a round of Christmas cornhole or have a holiday-themed scavenger hunt where everyone has to find seashells shaped like stars or collect driftwood to create a model reindeer! These games can keep everyone engaged and in the holiday spirit as you celebrate on the shore.
Christmas Bonfire
The public beaches of the Gulf Shores allow for bonfires if you have a permit. This holiday season, share stories with loved ones, roast marshmallows and sip hot cocoa around your very own beach bonfire. You’ll be putting your own spin on the traditional Christmas by the fireplace scene!
Bring Holiday Traditions to the Coast
One of the best things about hosting a holiday gathering in Gulf Shores is that you can bring all your favorite traditions with you—just with a coastal twist!
Christmas Tree on the Beach
Bring along a mini tree and decorate it with seashells, starfish, and other beachy ornaments. Set it up on the patio or balcony of your beachfront rental for a festive touch.
Beachfront Christmas Dinner
Why stay indoors when you’ve got the beauty of the Gulf right in front of you? Gather at the outdoor dining area, string some lights, and serve your holiday meal with the sound of the waves as your background music. It’s bound to be a Christmas by the coast that you won’t soon forget!
Christmas Movie Night
Watch holiday classics like “Home Alone” or “Elf” while snuggled under cozy blankets with the ones you love. Be sure to grab your favorite snacks for the holiday movie marathon.
Holiday Events in Gulf Shores
Come explore the tree-lighting ceremonies, the annual lighted boat parade, Christmas extravaganza and pageant, Magic Christmas Lights at Bellingrath Gardens, and the annual Christmas Festival in Downtown Bay Minette! Your eyes will light up as you enjoy these holiday festivities happening on the Gulf Shores.
Stay in Style with Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals
Now that you know what to do and where to go to have the best holiday experiences on the Gulf Shores – where are you going to be hosting? Hosting a holiday gathering at the beach is only as good as your home base. Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals has you covered with an excellent selection of Gulf Shores vacation rentals.
Why Choose Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals?
Location, location, location! You’ll be hosting your holiday gathering just steps away from the beach! Enjoy views and access to the beach whenever you hear the call of the sea. Is your extended family joining you this holiday season? Choose a rental that matches the number of people in your group so that everyone can be comfortable!
Cook up your holiday feast with all the trimmings in a vacation rental that has a full kitchen with all the necessary cookware and dinnerware you’ll need to prep and eat well. Plus, there’s also the added convenience of spacious living areas, outdoor patios, and even on-site pools!
Ready to Celebrate?
Ditch the cold this holiday season and have a holly, jolly Gulf Shores gathering this year. Celebrate the season in a new way with beachfront fun, Gulf views, and a blending of new and old traditions. Find your holiday home away from home with Alabama Beach Vacation Rentals! Reach out today to reserve your Gulf Shores vacation rental.