5 drive-through wowing holiday light displays near Birmingham

Wondering how to ignite that holiday spark within this season? I say, bring on the lights! Here are five spots near Birmingham that are decorated to the nines in holiday lights. The best part—you don’t even have to get out of your car.

1. Bama Lights in Pinson

Bama Lights is back again in Pinson—and this year it’s more amazing than ever with over 300,000 lights.

Due to COVID, this year’s event is drive-through only, but it’s totally worth it. Just tune your radio to 88.1FM and watch as thousands of lights flash, dance and twinkle around you to synchronized music.

While the display is free to enjoy, donations are welcome. This year, donations benefit Magic Moments, an organization that grants non-medical moments to kids with chronic life-threatening illnesses in Alabama. Donate here.

Distance from Birmingham: 32 minutes via AL-79 North/Pinson Valley

Where: Bama Lights, 8333 West Hill Rd, Pinson, AL 35126
When: Now-December 25 from 5-10PM
Price: FREE. Donations welcome.

2. Peppertree Neighborhood in Trussville

When it comes to neighborhood lighting displays, Peppertree in Trussville is LIT. As you turn into the neighborhood on a dark winter night, you’re basically greeted by the sun. Yep, put on your shades for this well-lit neighborhood.

I drove there with the fam in tow just to see what all the fuss is about. While my husband was thrilled to see a Home Alone-themed house that includes Macaulay Culkin in lights, my daughter was most enticed by the home that features a full-blown holiday extravaganza.

It features everything one could dream of in a holiday light display, including a Ferris wheel, Pac-Man ghosts, Santa’s sleigh and dancing trees. There was even a video projected on the exterior of the home of Santa eating cookies and drinking milk.

Distance from Birmingham: 51 min via I-65 North

Where: Peppertree Highlands Cir, Trussville, AL 35173
When: Through December 2020 after dark
Price: FREE

3. Winter Wonderland Christmas Light Display in Cullman

There’s still time to witness the beautiful lights at Winter Wonderland Christmas Light Display at Sportsman Lake Park in Cullman.

This is the 18th year for this annual event and it’s showing off more lights than ever before. December 26 and 27 are drive-through only, which is perfect for some post-Christmas social distancing while keeping the holiday season alive.

Where: Sportsman Lake Park, 1544 Sportsman Lake Road, Cullman, AL 35055
When: Drive-through December 26-27 from 5-10PM
Price: $10 per vehicle

3. The “Toy Shop” in Trussville

For a totally charming light display, check out the “Toy Shop” in Trussville. With handmade decorations and lots of lights, this holiday home display is simply delightful.

Distance from Birmingham: 23 minutes via I-59 North

Where: 211 Magnolia St, Trussville, AL 35173
When: Now-December 2020 after dark
Price: FREE

4. Safari of Lights in Hope Hull

Thousands of sparkling lights await you at Alabama Safari Park’s Safari of Lights. Located an easy drive down I-65 South in Hope Hull, you’ll stay in your car on a one-mile drive filled with twinkling lights and music.

But the fun doesn’t stop there. After your drive, you can also enjoy an illuminated walk through the Candy Cane Forest where you’ll find your favorite farm animals, games and free hot chocolate.

Distance from Downtown Birmingham: 1 hour, 39 minutes via I-65 South

Where: Alabama Safari Park, 1664 Venable Rd, Hope Hull, AL 36043
When: Now-December 27 from 5-9PM
Price: $10 per person
Tickets

5. 2020 Galaxy of Lights in Huntsville

Load up the car and set your GPS to Huntsville Botanical Gardens—it’s time to be swept away by the 2020 Galaxy of Lights.

It’s the 25th year of this awe-inspiring event and their pulling out all the stops to create a magical experience for you and fam. During your drive, you’ll explore 2.5 miles of magnificent light displays rich in holiday themes, classic characters and more.

So, cozy up in the car with your quaranteam and prepare to be dazzled.

Distance from Birmingham: 1 hour, 29 minutes via I-65 North 

Where: Huntsville Botanical Gardens, 4747 Bob Wallace Ave SW, Huntsville, AL 35805
When: Now-January 2 from 5:30-9PM
Price: $18+. Each Driving nights ticket is redeemable for one vehicle with up to 10 passengers.
Tickets: Available online + upon arrival.

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