Events for December 2, 2026

Step into a winter wonderland where festive fun meets hands-on science exploration!   What to Expect: Explore our beloved model train display, glide across our sock skating rink, and discover a variety of winter-themed experiences, including interactive polar animal activities, imaginative play areas, and our Festival of Trees featuring beautifully decorated trees sponsored by local businesses. What You Will Learn: Discover how animals survive in some of the coldest environments on Earth, investigate how penguins build their nests, and explore the unique adaptations that help polar wildlife thrive in freezing temperatures. Build your own winter community in the Imagination Playground ice village, dress like an Arctic explorer, and discover what it takes to live and work in icy environments. Through hands-on activities and imaginative play, visitors of all ages can explore the wonders of winter while celebrating the magic of the holiday season! Sock Skating Rink: Slide into some winter fun on our indoor sock skating rink! Skating sessions are available in 30-minute time slots, beginning at 10:30 a.m., with the final session starting at 3:30 p.m. Simply select your preferred time slot when you check in at the box office! Time slots are subject to availability.

Let us bring winter to you! Grab a pair of skates and glide, spin or fall into the season on real ice from November 13 - January 18. All skaters are required to complete a waiver before coasting on blades along the Gulf Coast with us. Want to give back this season? Join us for Skate to Donate on Tuesdays! Guests can lace up their skates and glide into the holiday season and make a meaningful impact while doing it. Every Tuesday through December 8, The Wharf will donate $5 to Toys for Tots for each skate purchase, matched dollar-for-dollar by Heather Loper & Associate at Keller Williams Alabama Gulf Coast, during the Skate to Donate initiative. It’s a wonderful way to spread joy while enjoying some time on the ice! Where Across from Portside on the corner of Main Street and Wharf Lane Date Friday, November 13 Upcoming Events Time 4 pm - 10 pm Event Schedule November 13-22: Monday-Friday: 4-10 pm Saturday: 10 am – 10 pm Sunday: Noon - 8 pm November 23-25 + 27+28 (Thanksgiving Break): 10 am – 10 pm November 26 (Thanksgiving Day): CLOSED November 29 - December 20: Monday-Friday: 4-10 pm Saturday: 10 am – 10 pm Sunday: Noon - 8 pm December 21-23: 10 am - 10 pm December 24 (Christmas Eve): 10 am - 4 pm December 25 (Christmas Day): CLOSED December 26: 10 am – 10 pm December 27: Sunday: Noon - 8 pm December 28-30: 10 am - 10 pm December 31 (New Year’s Eve): 10 am – Midnight January 1+2: 10 am – 10 pm January 3: Noon - 8 pm January 4-17: Monday-Friday: 4-10 pm Saturday: 10 am – 10 pm Sunday: Noon - 8 pm January 18: 10 am - 10 pm * Select Friday + Saturday nights Live DJ @ 7-10 pm November 13, 20+21, December 4+5, 11+12, 18+19 *Special Theme Nights December 4: Glow Night December 11: 90’s December 18: Tacky Christmas Cost All major credit cards accepted. General Admission: $16 (includes skate rental) Combo Pass (Ice rink + Ferris wheel): $22 Frequent Skater Pass (10 passes): $110 Socks: $4/pair

Explore the enchanting 31st Annual Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens & Home — a festive paradise on the Gulf Coast! Wander through a dazzling 65-acre Garden estate adorned with thousands of twinkling lights. The Bellingrath Home adds to the holiday ambiance with elegant décor and vibrant poinsettias. Discover the magic of Alabama as our talented staff handcrafts each light display with care and creativity. Immerse yourself in the season’s sounds with live choral performances throughout the Gardens. Savor the festive spirit with holiday treats and warm beverages — from seasonal delights to timeless favorites, there’s something for everyone. Create lasting memories with family and friends against the radiant backdrop of our displays. Purchase Tickets Now. Experience the Magic DATE: Nov. 20 – Jan. 9, 2027 | Closed Nov. 25,  Nov. 26, Dec. 25, and Jan. 1 TIME: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Bellingrath Gardens & Home’s Magic Christmas in Lights is a cherished tradition that brings people together in the true spirit of the season. Magic Christmas in Lights Evening Experience Event hours: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PMLast Home tour tickets sold at: 7:30 PMLast Home tour: 8:00 PMLast Gardens ticket sold: 9:00 PMGardens close at: 10:00 PM Please note: Guests will be charged special event pricing during Magic Christmas in Lights hours. Ticket Information Tickets are non-refundable. Day tickets and night tickets are sold separately and cannot be combined. Complimentary passes cannot be transferred to MCIL.

Ho Ho Happy Holidays! Santa returns to his magical home at Eastern Shore Centre for Photos with Santa beginning Friday, November 20th! Santa’s Whimsical Wonderland is located on the stage area on The Green near California Dreaming. Visits with Santa will be held Monday-Saturday 10 AM-7 PM and Sunday 12-6 PM Both families and pets are invited to visit Santa! No appointment necessary.