Tuscaloosa Downtown Merchant’s Association Retail Trail

Date: November 14
Location: Downtown Tuscaloosa

Join the Annual Retail Trail featuring over 50 restaurants, stores, and shops in downtown Tuscaloosa. Many businesses will offer special discounts and free refreshments for patrons. Hosted by the Tuscaloosa Downtown Merchants Association, this event is the perfect opportunity to get festive and stock up on all your holiday goodies!

Follow the TDMA on Facebook and Instagram for event details.

Elf Jr. presented by Brookwood High School Musical Theatre

Date: November 22 and 23
Location: Bama Theatre, 600 Greensboro Ave

Enjoy this magical seasonal musical filled with laughs and Christmas cheer at the historic Bama Theatre! Don’t miss talented local performers bringing the story of Elf Jr. to life.

Tickets available at Bama Theatre.

Wagner’s Tuscaloosa Turkey Trot

Date: November 23
Location: 406 Bridge Ave, Northport, AL

Participate in the 16th Annual Wagner’s Turkey Trot starting at 8 AM. Enjoy a flat 2-mile course that is family-friendly and suitable for all levels of runners and walkers. The race is located next to Iron Tribe Fitness near Dreamland BBQ in Northport.

Sign up at Tuscaloosa Turkey Trot.

Tinsel Trail

Opening Date: November 25 (Lasts Until January 1)
Location: Government Plaza, Downtown Tuscaloosa

This holiday season, Government Plaza will be lit with over 200 live Christmas trees sponsored and decorated by local businesses, organizations, and individuals. Tinsel Trail is a project of Tuscaloosa’s One Place: A Family Resource Center. Special events include Pet Night, Suit Up with Santa, and Ugly Sweater Night.

Check out the full schedule at Tinsel Trail.

Holidays on the Plaza

Dates: November 29 – January 20
Location: Government Plaza, 618 21st Ave

Experience the joy of the season at Holidays on The Plaza, featuring an ice-skating rink and holiday-themed activities. Regular skate price is $15 for a day pass, and season passes are available for $85. Guests can leave and return as long as they keep their wristband on. Every Tuesday night in December is Family Skate Day, with $12 skating and free drinks donated by Coca-Cola.

Santa’s Photo Opportunities:

Sunday, December 1, 1-5 PM
Sunday, December 15, 1-5 PM
Saturday, December 21, 1-5 PM
Sunday, December 22, 1-5 PM

Other special events will occur throughout the season. For a full rundown, visit: https://holidaysontheplaza.com/

Historic Tuscaloosa Annual Holiday Open House

Date: December 1
Location: All Five Historic Tuscaloosa Properties

Explore five beautifully preserved historic properties and soak in the ambiance of Tuscaloosa’s rich history. Admission is free, with donations welcome. The event runs from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM and includes children’s activities such as crafts, letter writing to the North Pole, and a visit from Santa. Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, cider, cookies, and snacks during your tour.

Participating Locations:

For more information, visit: Holiday Open House

Christmas-themed Painting Class with Joanna Lemmon

Date: December 3
Location: Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center, 7th Street and Greensboro Avenue

Join us for a festive painting class from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM, led by Joanna Lemmon, a local artist and educator. Tickets are $40 and include all supplies needed for the class. A cash bar will also be available.

About the Instructor:
Joanna Lemmon is an art teacher, artist, and owner of the Art Garage—a mobile art studio for children. She holds degrees in Early Childhood Education and Consumer Economics and has years of teaching experience. Her passion is bringing art to local parks, schools, festivals, and private events, helping others bring their creative visions to life.

For more information, visit: Holiday Painting with Joanna Lemmon

Dickens Downton

Date: December 3
Location: Historic Downtown Northport

Step into a Victorian Christmas wonderland at Dickens Downtown, an outdoor celebration inspired by Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. From 5-8 PM, Historic Downtown Northport will be transformed with snow, live music, caroling, and plenty of holiday cheer. Guests are encouraged to dress in their best Dickens-era costumes to fully embrace the festive spirit!

Historic Tuscaloosa Annual Pine & Prosecco

Date: December 4
Location: Jemison Van de Graaff Mansion, 1305 Greensboro Ave

Enjoy a delightful evening of food, fun, and floral design at Pine & Prosecco! Led by Leska Graves Taylor of LeskaCreativeArtist, this workshop offers participants the chance to create a fresh holiday arrangement perfect for a table, mantle, or gift. The event runs from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.

Tickets:

Only 32 tickets are available. To reserve your spot, call Historic Tuscaloosa at 205-758-2238 or email info@historictuscaloosa.org.

Check out the photo album from our first Pine & Prosecco event here: Pine & Prosecco Gallery

Hilaritas

Date: December 6 and 8
Location: Moody Music Hall, 810 2nd Avenue

Since 1969, the annual Hilaritas concert has been a cherished holiday tradition at the UA School of Music. The performance includes instrumental and choral arrangements of holiday favorites. “Hilaritas” translates to “live joyfully and be proud of what you are.”

Purchase tickets at UA Music Tickets.

YMCA Rudolph Run 8K

Date: December 7
Location: 2300 13th St

This 8K run through downtown Tuscaloosa promises a fun morning amidst holiday decorations. For parents participating, the YMCA offers childcare with fun activities for kids starting 30 minutes before the race.

Register at YMCA Rudolph Run.

Stillman College Choir Candlelight Christmas Concert

Date: December 8
Location: Birthright Alumni Hall, Stillman College

The annual music celebration will begin at 6 PM and feature the Stillman College’s renowned choir, soloists and ensembles singing familiar Christmas carols, including music from George Frideric Handel to spirituals. Dr. Jocqueline K. Richardson is the choir’s director, and it will be accompanied by Mr. Christopher Dixon. The event is free. Donations are encouraged. 

More information is available here.

West Alabama Christmas Parade

Date: December 9
Location: Downtown Tuscaloosa

The 48th Annual West Alabama Christmas Parade will feature floats, walking groups, marching bands, horse groups, and decorated vehicles. The parade will be preceded by a Tree Lighting ceremony on the steps of the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse at 5:15 PM. The parade begins at 6:30 PM.

More information at West Alabama Parade.

The Nutcracker by Tuscaloosa Community Dancers

Date: December 12-15
Location: Bama Theatre, 600 Greensboro Ave

Experience the enchanting production of The Nutcracker by the Tuscaloosa Community Dancers, set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless music. The TCD is a pre-professional ballet company for ages 10 and up.

Learn more at Tuscaloosa Community Dancers.

Who Sleighed Santa? Murder Mystery Interactive Event

Date: December 13, 6:30 PM until 9:30 PM
Location: The Historic Drish House

Sleigh or slay?

The Southern Ghost Girls Tours is hosting an interactive Murder Mystery Dinner at The Historic Drish House this holiday season! What better day to have this event than Friday the 13th? Dash into the sleuthing fun as you’re transported to the North Pole! You’ll get to actively participate in the clue-based mystery as you try to decide who “done it” during the event. Holiday attire is not required, but is certainly encouraged! Tickets include delicious food and a special Christmas punch! This event is perfect for friends night out, date night, celebrations, holiday parties, family gatherings and more. Get your tickets here!

Christmas Afloat 2024 Tuscaloosa

Date: December 14, beginning at 5:00 PM
Location: Black Warrior River, beginning at the Holt Lock and Dam

Set sail into the holiday spirit with Christmas Afloat 2024! Watch as dazzlingly decorated boats glide down the Black Warrior River, lighting up the water with festive cheer. Spots to enjoy the twinkling lights and holiday magic along the beauty of the river include Eagle Cove Marina & RV Park, Rock Quarry Boat Landing (Black Warrior River), Rocky Branch Boat Landing, Holt Hydro Power Dam Site Overlook, Deerlick Boat Launch, and anywhere else you can see the river between the Holt Dam and Old Lock 15 Boat Launch.

Learn more at the Christmas Afloat 2024 Facebook Event Page.

Diverse Business Council of West Alabama Jingle and Mingle Holiday Expo

Date: December 17 from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM
Location: Tuscaloosa River Market, 1900 Jack Warner Parkway

Get into the holiday spirit at the annual Jingle & Mingle Christmas Expo hosted in partnership with the Chamber’s Diverse Business Council. Shop 40+ local vendors, enjoy holiday cheer, and find unique gifts for everyone! Free and open to the public.

10th Annual Live Outdoor Christmas Nativity Pageant

Date: December 19-26
Location: 904 Princeton Place, Northport

The Story of Christmas will be told in an outdoor setting, staged with an authentic 80-ft. set featuring drama, lights, 30 costumed actors and dancers of all ages, music, and live animals! There will be two 25-minute showings nightly at 7:00 and 7:45 pm, 904 Princeton Place, Northport. Admission is free! Come early for front row seating. Children may pet the animals after each show.

Christmas Movie Classics at the Bama Theatre

Date: December 21 and 23
Location: Bama Theatre, 600 Greensboro Ave

The Arts Council of Tuscaloosa presents its Bama Art House Nostalgic Holiday Film Series. Enjoy classic holiday films on December 21 and December 23, with both matinee and evening showings.

December 21: How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) – (2:00 p.m.) and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (7:00 p.m.)
December 23: Home Alone (2:00 p.m.) and The Polar Express (6:00 p.m.)

For more information, visit Bama Art House.

Don’t see your favorite Holiday event in Tuscaloosa County? Email us at jhart@visittuscaloosa.com or call 205-860-1310.

A special thanks to our partners at Hampton Inn University, Hampton Inn East, and Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tuscaloosa East for sponsoring this content!

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

The crisp autumn air has arrived and the pumpkins have started to proudly show up on Tuscaloosa’s front porches. Which means that we have good news for those of you looking for things to do in Tuscaloosa in October!  

While we may only be a few days into the new month, the festivities of Fall and Halloween are certainly upon us!  Tuscaloosa and West Alabama boast many events this time of the year that are fantastic for both residents and visitors.  Whether you tack on an extra day or two while visiting for an Alabama football game, or simply want to jump in the car for a quick weekend trip, we hope you’ll support some of these local events when visiting Tuscaloosa.

As always, if the Visit Tuscaloosa team can assist you as you plan an upcoming trip to our community, please feel free to call us at 205-391-9200 or request a visitor guide by submitting this form.

OCTOBER 2022

Tuscaloosa Barnyard Pumpkin Patch
Friday: 1 – 6 pm  |  Sat & Sun: 10 am – 6 pm
Admission: $12 per person
11453 Turner Bridge Road, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406

The Tuscaloosa Barnyard Pumpkin Patch is something that locals look forward to each year!  Admission to the pumpkin patch offers access to many fun activities such as feeding animals, playgrounds, a corncrib, hay play, wagon ride, the Charlotte’s web and much more!  Pumpkins are $7 per pumpkin, no matter the size.  Kiddos want to ride a horse or pony, or drive a tractor?  Those options exist too!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8TH:

Ghost Hunt at Tuscaloosa’s Historic Drish House
7:00 – 11:00 pm
Admission: $50

Just in time for the Halloween Season! This is an Exclusive Paranormal Investigation that Psychic Lesley Ann Hyde and the professional Paranormal Investigation Team, Psychics and TV Personalities The Southern Ghost Girls Have Investigated The Historic Drish House in Tuscaloosa, Al. You will get to Investigate with them for this amazing event. You will get to use Real Paranormal Investigation Equipment just like you see on tv.  This is an interactive paranormal investigation and Everyone is Invited to join in the ghost hunt to see what paranormal evidence is discovered. Join the Southern Ghost Girls Team and you will have a hauntingly amazing experience.  Click here to purchase a ticket.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16TH:

T-Town Witches Ride
3:00 pm registration, 5:00 pm ride begins
Registration: $25

Benefiting the Arc of Tuscaloosa, this annual bike ride is a whimsical Halloween tradition with participants dressing up as witches and “flying” through the streets of Downtown Tuscaloosa.  This two-mile bike ride offers great fun for those over the age of 18.  Have children?  Bring them for the fun in the kids play area as the adults enjoy the witches ride. New for 2022, the event will also offer a one-mile walk.  Prizes will be awarded for the Best Dressed Witch, Best Broomcycle, and the Best Group Theme!  Participation is $25 per person.  Purchase a ticket by clicking here.

OCTOBER 24 – 28:

Haunting at the Museum (Gorgas House Museum)
9:00 am – 12:00 pm  |  1:00 – 4:30 pm
810 Capstone Drive, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487

Hosted at The Gorgas House Museum, located on campus, this year’s event will run from October 24-28 and will provide FREE haunted tours sharing the spooky stories associated with this home, which is one of the oldest structures on The University of Alabama campus.  Former UA President and Confederate General Josiah Gorgas passed away in this home… but his spirit is apparently alive and well.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25TH:

Tech or Treat
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Tuscaloosa Gateway Innovation and Discovery Center | 2614 University Blvd. East Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Do you have a little princess, superhero, goblin or ghoul who loves science and technology? Gather up your trick-or-treat enthusiasts and join the City of Tuscaloosa for Tech or Treat at the Gateway on Tuesday, October 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. Similar to “trunk-or-treat,” at the City’s Tech or Treat, families go from table to table collecting candy. At each table, children are introduced to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) opportunities by interacting with City departments and community organizations. Tech or Treat is free and open to all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27TH:

Northport Police Department Fall Festival
5:00 – 8:00 pm
Kentuck Park | 3401 5th Street, Northport, AL 35476

Put on your best costume and join us for Northport Police Department’s Fall Festival October 27th from 5:00pm – 8:00pm at Kentuck Park. We’ll have trick-or-treating, bounce houses, a hay ride, a costume contest, food trucks, and a whole lot of fun!

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28TH:

Haunting at the Museum (Alabama Museum of Natural History)
4:30 – 7:00 pm
Alabama Museum of Natural History | Smith Hall on Campus

The Alabama Museum of Natural History visitors are encouraged to attend this fun after-hours event to celebrate Halloween with spooky children’s stories, crafts, mad scientist experiences, and much more! Free and fun for all to attend.

Tuscaloosa Public Library Boook-tacular
6:00 – 8:00 pm
1801 Jack Warner Parkway, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

All ghouls and ghosties are invited to a Boooook-tacular evening at the Main Branch of the Tuscaloosa Public Library.  They will have food and activities for the entire family to enjoy, including face painting, balloon animals, games, a petting zoo provided by Tuscaloosa Barnyard, and summer reading favorite, Roger Day! They will also be joined by frightfully fantastic community organizations and local food trucks with wicked good refreshments.  Don’t miss this ghoulish celebration at the most booo-tiful library of the river!

Harvest Jam in Midtown Village
5:30 – 8:30 pm
Midtown Village
Beer Tasting Ticket: $5

Come JAM with Midtown Village!  Harvest Jam will be held on Friday, October 28th from 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM on the green! 

This free fall event is for music fans, farmers market shoppers, craft beer lovers, and families!  Enjoy a craft beer tasting presented by Adam’s Beverages, live music, pop-up vendors, and activities! Donations from the craft beer tasting will benefit Child Abuse Prevention Services in Tuscaloosa, AL.  Grab your beer sample, and then select the perfect pumpkin at our Pumpkin Patch benefiting Child Abuse Prevention Services!

Click here to purchase a BEER TASTING ticket for $5.

Freaky Friday 8k Run
8:00 – 11:00 pm
101 Bridge Avenue, Northport, AL 35476
Registration: $30

The 13th annual Freaky Friday 8K Run takes place on a scenic yet scary course during the darkness on the Friday before Halloween, “Freaky Friday”. There will be a post-race awards ceremony complete with food and drinks at Dreamland Barbecue along with a costume contest prior to the start of the run.  Local radio stations and craft beer will also be on hand for registered runners.  Click here to register!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29TH:

Boo! In the Park & Touch-a-Truck
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Sokol Park | 5901 Watermelon Rd. Northport, AL 35473

Tuscaloosa County Parks and Recreation Authority is hosting two free events: Boo! in the Park and Touch-a-Truck on Saturday, October 29 at Sokol Park from 9:00 a.m. – noon. The Touch-a-Truck event will include sensory friendly “quiet time” (no sirens, etc.) from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. followed by the exploration of all types of vehicles from 10:00 a.m. – noon. Vehicles will include heavy equipment/machinery, tractors, fire trucks, cars, and trucks. The annual Boo! in the Park will be held concurrently and consist of carnival-like games, candy, and more. The Tuscaloosa Police Department plans to join with their helicopter and a K-9, as well as the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter and the Tuscaloosa Public Library.

Halloween at the Transportation Museum
1:00 – 4:00 pm
1901 Jack Warner Parkway NE, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Visitors are encouraged to come to the Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum in their costumes on Saturday. October 29 from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm and see the costumes from the year 1905 on display in the new Threaded Through History exhibit!  The Museum will be decorated with fun Halloween outdoor inflatables and fall cut-outs.  There will be holiday music, candy, and light refreshments.

15th Annual Rocky Horror Picture Show
8:00 – 11:00 pm | Ticket Price: $20 – $27
Bama Theatre | 600 Greensboro Ave. Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

Pink Box Burlesque is back at the Historic Bama Theatre on Saturday, October 29th for their 15th Annual Rocky Horror Picture Show! It’s an artistic composition with a humorous and provocative stage show that you just simply don’t want to miss.  Doors open at 7pm. Costume Contest (with cash prizes) at 8pm. Show starts at 8:30 pm.  Click here to purchase tickets today.

The T-Town Edition

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in and around the Tuscaloosa and Northport area! While we had one of the most beautiful fall seasons, the leaves have now fallen and there’s a slight chill in the air.  We now turn to some of our most beloved holiday events of the year. In this edition, we’ll share a few of our favorite festivities, so get your scarves, grab your friends and family, and get ready to have a magnificent time!

Tuscaloosa Tinsel Trail
benefiting Tuscaloosa’s One Place

Beloved by all, the Tuscaloosa Tinsel Trail has become a hallmark of the holiday season in West Alabama. Nearly 200 festive trees, combined with the ice skating rink at Government Plaza, allow anyone who visits the opportunity to create traditions that make you feel right at home. Feel the joy of the holiday spirit and select your favorite trees as you stroll through Government Plaza. The Tinsel Trail runs through January 17th.

Check out all of the fun activities taking place along the trail and learn more here!

Location: Government Plaza – 2106 6th St, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Parking: Free parking is available on-site in the City’s parking deck.

Holidays on the Plaza
ice skating fun and more

Skate the night away and cherish this delightful cold weather with your friends and family in style. Whether it’s your first-time skating or you’re a seasoned professional, you’re bound to have a blast out on the ice as you overlook the Tinsel Trail – all located within Government Plaza. We are so thankful that the City of Tuscaloosa hosts this for all to enjoy this time of year!

For more information, hours, and tickets, click here.
Tip: Don’t forget to bring socks for the skates that are provided.

Location: Government Plaza – 2106 6th St, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Parking: Free parking is available on-site in the City’s parking deck.

45th Annual West Alabama Christmas Parade
super heroes celebrating Christmas

The 45th annual West Alabama Christmas Parade is happening at 6:30 pm on Monday, December 6th. This parade, put on each year by the Tuscaloosa County Park and Recreation Authority, is one of the biggest Christmas parades in the state! Get bundled up and prepare for an amazing parade through Downtown Tuscaloosa. This year’s grand marshals include Jheovanny Gomez, Nancie Blewitt, and Pam Parker.

A tree lighting ceremony will take place on the steps of the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse prior to the parade at 5:15 pm.

To get all the details, visit their website here!
To view the parade map, click here.

Dickens Downton
a victorian Christmas celebration in historic downtown Northport

Dickens Downtown is hosted by the Merchants of Historic Downtown Northport, and it is a FREE family event celebrating the Christmas spirit and the joy of giving. At 5 pm on December 7th, attendees can expect live caroling performances, Father Christmas, snow machines, a tree lighting, and live artist demonstrations. In addition, excerpts of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens will be read at Shirley Place and hundreds of people will be dressed in Victorian-era costumes inspired by the popular novel. 


For more information about Dickens Downtown, check this out!
Location: Main Avenue in Historic Downtown Northport

Hotel Capstone’s Jingle Bar
a hotel bar filled with the Christmas Spirit

Get toasty with the elves at Hotel Capstone. Join them for a SELFIE-worthy explosion of Christmas decor, elf-approved holiday cocktails, and magical moments with friends! Book your office party or just grab a group of loved ones for a festive evening of holiday cheer! This will be open until January 2!

For more information visit here.

Check Out These Additional Events!

– Dec. 5 at 3 pm: Tinsel Trail Pet Night
– Dec. 10 at 6 pm: Tinsel Trail Family Night
– Dec. 10 at 7 pm: Alabama Choir School Winter Concert, Moody Music Bldg. Purchase tickets here.
– Dec. 12 at 2 and 6:30 pm: The Nutcracker, presented by the Tuscaloosa Community Dancers at
the Bama Theatre
– Dec. 13 at 7 pm: Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra Annual Holiday Concert, UA School of Music.
Purchase tickets here!
– Dec. 16 at 6 pm: Movie by Moonlight Drive-In, supporting DCH Foundation. Learn more here.

The Fourth of July is (almost) here! Time to enjoy the long weekend of burgers and hot dogs on the grill, sunshine, music, boats, fireworks, bonfires, friends, and family! While this year may look a little different, this holiday can provide some much-needed relaxation from the mental stresses of daily, routine life, especially in 2020. Not sure how to spend your weekend in the one and only Tuscaloosa? No worries, we have gathered some ideas below to help you make the most of Independence Day weekend.

 

Sparks Fly

It wouldn’t be a Fourth of July celebration without fireworks, and the City of Tuscaloosa is putting on a show that is viewable from downtown at 9 p.m. this Saturday! Free parking is available for all viewers at the Tuscaloosa amphitheater and the Intermodal Facility parking deck. Be sure to tune in to local Tuscaloosa radio stations to listen to live music accompanying the spectacular show. The Tuscaloosa fire department urges leaving the performances to professionals.

 

Wide Open Spaces

Another major component of celebrating the Fourth is basking in the glorious summer sun. Tuscaloosa is the perfect place to relax in the great outdoors with so many beautiful lakes, rivers, and parks. Lake Tuscaloosa has everything you need for a traditional family lake day, whether you boat, fish, or swim. You and the entire family are bound to have an unforgettable Fourth celebration at this local hangout. Another option is Lake Nicol, a man-made lake with a slew of trails that meander to captivating Cliffside views. These ledges make for a perfect spot to get away from it all in under a 15-min drive. Take in the picturesque waters on a paddleboard or admire the serene views while hiking in one of the most secluded and naturally beautiful places in the city.

 

Picnic Like a Pro

If you aren’t up for this adventure, pack a bag and enjoy a picnic on the captivating campus of The University of Alabama! Waitr also has offered a 50% off delivery special this weekend! Take advantage of this phenomenal deal and order from your favorite local restaurants! Whether you choose a juicy burger from Rama Jama’s, the game-changing wings from Catfish Heaven, or an unforgettable Chipotle Marinated Pork Tenderloin from Southern Ale House! For dessert, check out The Whimsey Cookie’s adorable and delicious Fourth of July Cookie Set.

 

Cool Down

If you need a cool down from the Alabama heat, stop by Las Piñas on McFarland Blvd for some homemade ice cream, chili powder popsicles, or fresh street corn! This family-owned business brings a modern twist to the classic ice cream shops. They serve 100% homemade frozen treats and snacks with the combination of Mexican and American flavors! If snow cones are more your style, Summer Snow is the perfect spot for you! With over sixty flavors to try, this shaved ice shop has proven itself as a staple within this community.

The Alabama football team may be headed to New Orleans, but there is a lot going on in Tuscaloosa this New Year’s weekend. Both Alabama basketball teams begin conference play in Coleman Coliseum against ranked foes, and Holidays on the River gives you a chance to experience Tuscaloosa’s winter wonderland with ice skating and more. Don’t forget to tag @VisitTuscaloosa on Instagram when you post your holiday adventures around Tuscaloosa. We may use your photo and give you a shoutout!

It’s going to be another perfect winter weekend for ice skating and fun at Holidays on the River. If you haven’t tried ice skating before then now is your chance to experience something new and different. The rink will be open from 2 pm -10 pm on Friday and 11 am – 9 pm on Saturday. There will also be a New Year’s Eve celebration on Sunday. Buy your tickets at now at http://www.holidaysontheriver.com/

After an 8-4 start against non-conference opponents, the Alabama men’s basketball team begins SEC play Saturday with a visit from the #5 Texas A&M. The Aggies come into Tuscaloosa with an 11-1 record and looking like the team to beat in the SEC. An Alabama win would be huge for the program and the season, as the Tide have struggled toward the end of their non-conference schedule. This is one of the biggest games in Coleman in a long time. The atmosphere will be electric with the Tide’s 5-star talent trying to knock off a top 5 opponent. You won’t want to miss this one! Get tickets now at RollTide.com for this 5 pm tipoff.

New Year’s Eve is all about fun, and the Children’s Hands-On Museum wants to make sure kids get the full, festive experience. From 10 am – 12 pm on Saturday the 30th CHOM will host the New Year’s Eve for Kids and will pull out all the stops to make sure kids ring in the new year right. This includes hats, horns, tiaras, a balloon drop at 11 am, and a New Year’s toast. Go to CHOMOnline.org for more information, and Happy New Year!

The men’s basketball squad isn’t the only team entering SEC play this weekend. The women’s team will continue their special season against #16 Missouri on Sunday at 2 pm. Alabama is on a five-game winning streak and has posted a 9-3 record on the season thus far. They are a perfect 7-0 at home, so maybe that home cooking will help knock off the 12-1 Tigers. Come be a part of what could be a statement win of the 2017 season. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at RollTide.com.

We have tons more going on so check out our great upcoming events at visittuscaloosa.xyz/events, and follow us on our social media pages (@visittuscaloosa) for more announcements.

The big snow last weekend has really gotten into the holiday spirit. There are classic wintery plays being shown, ice skating and more to celebrate this special time of year with your friend and family. Don’t forget to tag @VisitTuscaloosa on Instagram when you post your holiday adventures around Tuscaloosa. We may use your photo and give you a shoutout!

The Actor’s Charitable Theatre presents the classic tale of adventure and magic with The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe all weekend long. Come to the Bama Theatre and take a walk through the old wardrobe into the magical world of Narnia this Friday-Sunday. Times are as follows:
Friday- 7:30
Saturday- 2:00
Saturday- 7:30
Sunday- 2:00
Sunday- 7:30
Visit the www.theactonline.com for tickets and enjoy the show!

Alabama’s Women’s Basketball team is back in action this Sunday against out-of-conference foe SMU. The Tide is 4-0 at home this season so come be a part of what could be a special season for this team, who is building something special after wins over Lipscomb and Utah. The game tips at 2:00 in Coleman Coliseum and tickets are only $5.

There is nothing more perfect on wintery weekends than holiday events. Tuscaloosa’s Holidays on the River will be open this weekend with special events like a visit from Santa on Friday and Carriage Rides on Saturday. Plus you will have a blast skating at the outdoor ice rink. The rink schedule this weekend is as follows:
Thursday- 5-9
Friday- 5-10 with Visit from Santa
Sat- 11 am – 9 p.m. with Carriage Rides
Sun- 1-5
Go to holidaysontheriver.com for more information and a complete schedule of events for the season.

Looking to get your kids in on the holiday action this weekend? Look no further than the Children’s Hands-On Museum. This Saturday from 10-4 will be a Holiday Hoopla! Kids of all ages will be able to go through gift creating stations to make something unique and special for a sibling, friend, parent, or other loved one. Don’t let them miss out on this fun holiday event.

The holiday season would be complete without experiencing the Dickens classic “A Christmas Carol.” Theatre Tuscaloosa will be presenting the Romulus Linney version of this incredible story of a man who learns what Christmas is all about. Shows will run all weekend at the Bean-Brown Theatre at Shelton State:
Thursday- 7:30
Friday- 7:30
Saturday- 2:00
Sunday- 2:00
Visit Theatretusc.com for tickets!

We have tons more going on so check out our great upcoming events below, and follow us on our social media pages (@visittuscaloosa) for more announcements