Celebrate the Magic of the Season at Downtown Decatur Christmas Open House

Get in touch

(256) 350-2028

info@decaturcvb.org

350 Market St. NE, Decatur, AL 35601

Celebrate the Magic of the Season at Downtown Decatur Christmas Open House

Lillie Beth Warner • November 3, 2023

Downtown Decatur Merchants Kick Off the Christmas Season with the Return of Christmas Open House on November 9th!

The holiday season is just around the corner, and there's no better way to kick it off than by joining us at the annual Downtown Decatur Christmas Open House! From November 9th through the weekend, our charming downtown area will transform into a winter wonderland filled with festivities, treats, and heartwarming activities for the entire family. We will breakdown the weekend's enchanting events below!

Slide title

Write your caption here

Button
Slide title

Write your caption here

Button
Slide title

Write your caption here

Button
Slide title

Write your caption here

Button

Shop 'Til You Drop: Downtown Decatur Merchants Go the Extra Mile

One of the highlights of this event is the extended hours of the Downtown Decatur Merchants. On November 9th Downtown Decatur Merchants will be keeping their doors open until 8:00 PM. This is your chance to explore the unique offerings of our local businesses, enjoy holiday deals, and indulge in special treats and appetizers. It's the perfect opportunity to get a head start on your holiday shopping while experiencing the warm hospitality of our local retailers.

Slide title

Write your caption here

Button
Slide title

Write your caption here

Button
Slide title

Write your caption here

Button

Streets Adorned with Christmas Decor

As you stroll through the streets of Downtown Decatur, you'll be greeted by the enchanting sight of Christmas decorations. The entire area is transformed into a winter wonderland, setting the perfect backdrop for your festive evening. This immersive experience will truly get you into the holiday spirit. You can also look out for the Downtown Decatur Merchants Christmas decoration awards. Keep an eye out to see who was awarded the most festive shop in Downtown Decatur!

The Grand Christmas Tree Lighting

One of the most highly anticipated moments of the weekend is the City of Decatur's annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Join us at 8:30 PM on Friday at the Alabama Center for the Arts lawn as we illuminate this magnificent holiday symbol. It's a heartwarming and magical moment that captures the true spirit of the season.

Slide title

Write your caption here

Button
Slide title

Write your caption here

Button
Slide title

Write your caption here

Button

Holiday Open House at the Historic Decatur Union Train Depot and Railroad Museum

Families are invited to the historic Decatur Union Train Depot and Railroad Museum for a special holiday open house. Experience the magic of the season with the grand opening of the Children's Holiday Layout, a true marvel for all ages. And, of course, Santa Claus himself will be visiting the train depot on Friday from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM to check in on his workshop and make note of your holiday wishes.

10th Annual Winter Wonder Event at the Cook Museum of Natural Science

For more family fun, the Cook Museum of Natural Science is hosting their 10th annual Winter Wonder Event on November 10th from 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM. Bring the whole family for a fantastic outdoor event filled with inflatables, engaging activities, games, a take-home craft, a selfie station for capturing your holiday memories, and delicious food available for purchase. Please note that this outdoor event is weather-dependent and does not include entrance to the Museum Exhibits. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the Museum will close at 6:30 PM.

Learn More

Don't Miss Downtown Hartselle's Christmas Open House on November 12th!

Get ready for a delightful holiday experience in Hartselle! On November 12th, from 1-4 PM, the charming town of Hartselle will host its Christmas Open House. This special event promises an enchanting afternoon filled with festive cheer and a chance to explore local shops, all beautifully adorned for the holiday season. It's the perfect opportunity to start your Christmas shopping and soak up the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Hartselle. Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit and support local businesses.

Join Us for Festive Fun!

Morgan County's Christmas Open Houses are celebrations that have something for everyone. It's the perfect way to start your holiday celebrations and experience the magic of the season in Downtown Decatur and Downtown Hartselle.

For more information and updates, please visit our facebook page at VisitDecaturAL.

We can't wait to celebrate this wonderful time of the year with you. See you at Downtown Decatur and Downtown Hartselle's Christmas Open House!

< Older Post Newer Post >

Bleisure: The Hottest New Tourism Trend

By Danielle Gibson • March 24, 2025

Bleisure: The Hottest New Tourism Trend

Faith, Architecture, and Activism: The Story of First Missionary Baptist Church

By Emma Martin • February 21, 2025

In the heart of Old Town Decatur, Alabama, First Missionary Baptist Church stands as a beacon of resilience, faith, and history. Established in 1866 by 21 formerly enslaved individuals, the church has not only served as a spiritual home for its congregation but also as a significant symbol of African American perseverance and architectural heritage. The church's beginnings trace back to the home of Jane Young, where its founding members gathered under the leadership of Rev. Alfred Peters, the first pastor. Initially, services were held in a modest storefront along the Tennessee River, embodying the dedication and commitment of its members despite limited resources. In 1873, the congregation took a significant step forward by purchasing a building from a white Methodist congregation, establishing a more permanent place of worship.First Missionary Baptist Church's current home, constructed in 1921, is a masterpiece of Neoclassical Romanesque architecture, designed by the renowned Wallace Augustus Rayfield. Rayfield, a trailblazing African American architect, is best known for designing the historic 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, which became a tragic yet powerful symbol of the Civil Rights Movement following the 1963 bombing. His influence is evident in the thick brick walls, rounded arches, towering structures, and striking stained-glass windows of First Missionary Baptist Church, which shares design elements with its Birmingham counterpart. Throughout its history, First Missionary Baptist Church has been more than a place of worship; it has been a pillar of the African American community in Decatur. During the era of segregation and Jim Crow laws, the church became a hub of resistance and advocacy. Notably, during the infamous Scottsboro Boys trials of the 1930s, the church provided a safe space for meetings between defense attorneys and prospective jurors, demonstrating its commitment to justice and equality. While the church remains a cornerstone of Decatur's African American community, it has faced its share of struggles as years have gone by. Despite these challenges, the congregation remains steadfast in preserving this historic landmark. Efforts are underway to restore and maintain the building, with hopes of transforming it into a destination for Civil Rights education, historical tours, architectural enthusiasts and more. First Missionary Baptist Church is more than just a structure; it is a living testament to faith, endurance, and cultural heritage. Its story, interwoven with the broader narrative of African American history in the South, deserves recognition and preservation for future generations. With ongoing community support, this historic church can continue to serve as an enduring symbol of resilience and progress.

Decatur Now and Then

By Emma Martin • January 21, 2025

Decatur Now and Then

Ring in 2025 in Style: New Year's Eve in the River City

By Emma Martin • December 27, 2024

If you're looking for an unforgettable way to ring in the New Year in the River City, look no further! We’ve put together the ultimate New Year’s Eve itinerary to ensure you have an evening full of amazing food, drinks, and excitement. From a fantastic dinner to a lively pre-game cocktail hour, and an unforgettable casino night, the River City has it all.

Decatur’s Festival of the Cranes: A Celebration of Nature and Community

By Emma Martin • December 12, 2024

Over the years, Decatur, Alabama, has become a haven for nature lovers every January. The annual Festival of the Cranes draws spectators from near and far to marvel at the majestic Sandhill and Whooping Cranes as they make their winter migration south