‘Nutcracker’ + Christmas Parade highlight December events in the Rocket City

December is a great time to be in Huntsville, as holiday cheer is abundant and the events that accompany the season are always fun and festive. This December, we have several events and happenings you’ll want to check out, from holiday-themed events to just flat-out fun stuff to do.

Holiday traditions

Christmas Parade @ Downtown Huntsville

• What: The 11th Annual Mix 96.9 Von Braun Center Downtown Huntsville Christmas Parade will feature more than 80 quality floats, animals and marching bands.
• When: Tuesday, December 2, 6PM
• Cost: Free
• Details

Galaxy of Lights @ Huntsville Botanical Garden

• What: One of Huntsville’s most popular holiday traditions is back! Whether you stroll beneath twinkling arches, drive through beloved scenes re-imagined with fresh wonder or share the magic with your furry best friend, every visit is a chance to make the season brighter.
• When: November 14-December 31, 5-9PM
• Cost: $13+
• Details

Tinsel Trail @ Big Spring Park

• What: Stroll through Big Spring Park to see over 400 decorated Christmas trees put together by a variety of local businesses and organizations (reservations for a tree are sold out, but come walk through the trail as a spectator anyway!).
• When: November 29-December 30
• Cost:
• Details

‘The Nutcracker’ @ Mark C. Smith Concert Hall

• What: You cannot celebrate the holiday season without seeing “The Nutcracker” at least once. Huntsville Ballet puts on one of the best performances of the classic ballet every year and is accompanied by the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra.
• When: December 12-14
• Cost: $40+
• Details

Skating in the Park @ Big Spring Park

• What: This is one of our favorite holiday traditions, as an ice skating rink is set up at Big Spring Park in front of the Huntsville Museum of Art throughout December!
• When: November 21-January 4
• Cost: $5+
• Details

Mrs. Claus Snow Stroll @ Gas Light Alley in Stovehouse

• What: Gaslight Alley transforms into a winter wonderland as snow machines create flurries that fill the alleyway. Shop, hang out, grab a bite and enjoy the he holiday atmosphere!
• When: Every Friday-Saturday, December 5-19
• Cost: Free
• Details

Concerts + shows

Mark Twain Tonight @ Mark C. Smith Concert Hall

• What: Emmy Award-winning actor Richard Thomas portrays Mark Twain in this legendary one-man show, bursting with Twain’s unique humor and wit.
• When: Friday, December 5, 7:30PM; Saturday, December 6, 1PM
• Cost:
• Details

Covered in Christmas @ The Orion Amphitheater

• What: Covered in Christmas features local musicians putting a funky and alternative twist on your favorite holiday tunes. 
• When: Saturday, December 6, 12-4PM
• Cost: Free
• Details

Drake White @ The Princess Theatre

• What: This chart-topping singer-songwriter is back in his home state as part of his “Keep It Movin’ Tour.”
• When: Wednesday, December 10, 7PM
• Cost: $40
• Details

Jeff Dunham @ Propst Arena

• What: Ventriloquist and stand-up comedian Jeff Dunham brings his “Artificial Intelligence” tour to the VBC!
• When: Saturday, December 13, 5PM
• Cost: $70+
• Details

Steel Panther @ Mars Music Hall

• What: The wild hair, the leather outfits and the raw showmanship of the hair metal era is back with Steel Panther at Mars Music Hall!
• When: Sunday, December 21, 8PM
• Cost: $40+
• Details

Mannheim Steamroller @ Mark C. Smith Concert Hall

• What: It wouldn’t be the holiday season without some Mannheim Steamroller. This performance is presented by Chip Davis.
• When: Saturday, December 27, 7PM
• Cost: $90
• Details

Sports

Huntsville Havoc Hockey @ Propst Arena

• What: The Havoc will play six home games in December, each with a different theme!
• When: December 7, 12, 18, 19, 26, 30
• Cost: $12+
• Details

Alabama vs. Kennesaw State @ Propst Arena

• What: The University of Alabama’s men’s basketball team plays Kennesaw State in the annual Rocket City Classic!
• When: Sunday, December 21, 1PM
• Cost: $50+
• Details

Holiday markets

Yule Y’all Christmas Market @ Lowe Mill

• What: The annual Yule Y’all Christmas Market and Spirit Sampling is a festive celebration featuring over 100 vendors alongside their 153 working studios, holiday creations, delicious food and live music.
• When: Saturday, December 6, 11AM-7PM
• Cost: Parking, $10
• Details

Christkindlmarket @ The Orion Amphitheater

• What: Fun for the whole family, the Christkindlmarket will be the ideal place to find the perfect gift for the Holidays. In addition to the juried artist market, you can enjoy live music and a delightful blend of holiday food and drinks to enjoy.
• When: Friday, December 12, 5-8PM; Saturday, December 13, 11AM-5PM; Sunday, December 14, 11AM-5PM
• Cost: Free
• Details

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