6 ways Morgan County turns into a Hallmark movie during the holiday season
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If you’ve been bingeing cheesy Netflix or Hallmark Christmas movies and are wondering where to find a quaint small town that replicates the holiday charm, you have to visit the Decatur, AL area.
Just 1 hour north of Birmingham and with countless holiday happenings, Morgan County makes the perfect holiday trip.
Keep reading to see our 6 top spots to visit for the perfect holiday photo-op.
Our must-visit spots
To make the most of your holiday trip, check out Decatur Morgan County Tourism for their countless visitors’ resources.
1. Alabama Center for the Arts
Home to one of many beautiful Christmas trees, Alabama Center for the Arts makes a lovely Christmas backdrop.
The students at this unique private arts college are also treating locals to a holiday special this year: a performance of Ken Ludwig’s “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
- Where: ACA Recital Hall, Performing Arts building
- Showtimes: Dec 11 + 12 | 6-7PM
- Reserve Tickets (FREE)
2. Christmas Tour of Homes
Explore beautifully adorned homes in the historic district during the Tour of Homes. You won’t be able to put your phone away when surrounded by the stunning architecture and curated decor.
- When: Saturday, Dec 14 from 2-7PM
- Get tickets ($35)
3. Cook Museum of Natural Science
You may be asking: “What could be fun and festive about a natural science museum?’“
You’d be surprised! With nine fun exhibits to explore, Cook Museum is spreading the holiday cheer with a variety of events:
- Deck the Hall of Ectotherms
- When: Dec 9–Jan 4
- Exhibit details: Embrace the natural world and say hi to animals including bees, turtles, alligators, snakes + more. Their homes are decorated for the holidays, too!
- Colors of Christmas Scavenger Hunt
- When: Saturday, Dec 14
- Event details: Hunt the exhibits for red + green in the natural world
- I’ll Be Home For Christmas Scavenger Hunt
- When: Dec 23–Jan 4
- Event details: Learn more about the places animals call home
The festive decor and fun sights inside will be the perfect photo-op for families (and a great learning experience).
4. Downtown Hartselle
Let’s take a quick detour to highlight some of the holiday happenings in Hartselle:
- Christmas at the Depot
- When: Dec 14 5-7PM
- Where: The Depot, 110 Railroad St SW, Hartselle, AL
- Photos with Santa at the Robins Nest
- When: Dec 14 10AM-1PM
- Where: The Robins Nest, 212 Main St W, Hartselle, AL
Besides these fun events, there are countless cute shops and restaurants to explore.
5. Enchanted Forest tree trail
Stroll through a path of live Christmas trees decorated by the community with a large community tree at the center.
This cherished tradition in Downtown Decatur is set in front of the historic Old State Building. The whole block is practically glowing, making it a must-see photo stop.
- When: View until Jan 1
- Where: Founder’s Park, Founders, Park, 905 Canal St NE, Decatur, AL
6. The Princess Theater
The Princess Theater is straight from a Hallmark movie. Established in 1919, this historic theater is bringing the holiday nostalgia with a series of classic Christmas movie showings.
Take photos under the beautiful cinema sign and follow it up with a unique movie experience.
- Where: Downtown Decatur, 112 2nd Ave NE, Decatur, AL 35601
- Find upcoming shows
For holiday guides and can’t-miss experiences, check out Decatur Morgan County Tourism to plan your holiday getaway.
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