FREE holiday events + easy ways to give back this season in Irondale

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Our holiday calendars are already filling up fast this year, and it’s not even Thanksgiving yet! As we’ve been sharing, there’s no shortage of ways to give back to others and get merry with your family this season.

One city where there are ample free opportunities to do both? Irondale. Just a short, 15-minute sleigh ride from downtown, you’ll find a city full of holiday spirit.

We’ve compiled free, easy ways to make merry now through the new year.

Give back this season—get free turkey + ham for the holiday table

_{The City of Irondale’s annual holiday ham giveaway is always a hit. (City of Irondale)}

Local food banks need our help now more than ever. Irondale is helping make donations easier by hosting an ongoing food drive in conjunction with the Community Food Bank of Central Alabama.

• When: Now until January 8, 2026 | Mondays-Thursdays 7AM-5PM
• Where: Donate non-perishable canned goods at Irondale City Hall during the above times | Donate money to fund meals anytime via the Irondale Community Foundation

If your own table could use a little filling, there’s help, thanks to Mayor Stewart:

• What: Thanksgiving Blessing Turkey Giveaway*
• When: Saturday, November 22 | 8-9AM
• Where: Irondale City Hall

“The holidays bring out the very best in Irondale. It’s a time when our community comes together to serve those in need and to celebrate the joy, hope and love that make this city feel like family—because Irondale’s greatest gift is its people.”

_{Irondale Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr.}

• What: Christmas Ham Giveaway*
• When: Saturday, December 20 | 8-9AM
• Where: Irondale City Hall

*one per family; while supplies last

Tip: Looking for a way to get your kids involved with giving back? The City of Irondale partners with Heidi’s Kids, an Irondale-based charity that provides toys to children in need. You can drop off toy donations at all municipal buildings.

Get merry all season long with these free holiday events

_{Make your 2025 holiday season memorable with these fun Irondale events! (City of Irondale)}

There’s something for everyone this year, and the celebrations kick off in a crafty way.

• What: The City of Irondale’s 2nd Annual Arts + Crafts Bazaar
• When:
  • Saturday, November 22 | 10AM-4PM
  • Sunday, November 23 | 12PM-3PM
• Where: Shades Valley High School
• Expect: Unique handmade items, treats + more made by local vendors
• More info: Event details

Next up? The city lights its tree at a big party, and you’re invited.

• What: The “Irondale Believes” Christmas Parade + tree lighting
• When: Friday, December 5 | 6PM
• Where: Irondale City Hall
• Expect: Free pics with Santa, hot cocoa + cookies
• More info: Event details

Irondale is also adding a menorah to the mix at City Hall for the first time.

• What: City Menorah Lighting
• When: Tuesday, December 16 | 5PM
• Where: Irondale City Hall
• More info: Follow Chabad of Alabama for details

And don’t miss a few other free moments that will help create holiday memories:

• Week of December 15: Santa stays busy touring the streets of Irondale via fire truck each evening. Check out his schedule + track the big guy live here.
• Annual Holiday House Showdown: Enter your home in Irondale’s holiday decor contest to compete for the Irondale Christmas Cup! Judging begins on December 7 + winners will be announced by the Mayor on December 16 at the council meeting.
• Special holiday activities will be held at the new Irondale Public Library + the Irondale Senior Activity Center throughout the season. Keep an eye on socials for the library + senior center as details are announced.
  
  

Where will we see you this holiday season in Irondale, Birmingham? Now’s a great time to add these free events—and ways to help others—to your calendars.

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