11 places to find spectacular holiday lights in Birmingham

‘Tis the season for beautiful Christmas lights in the Magic City. Whether you want to go for a joy ride around a neighborhood or see an extravagant light show, Birmingham has it all.

Read on for all the fun places you can see lights!

1. The Preserve in Hoover

The beautiful houses at The Preserve get even more magical during the holiday season. Experience the winter wonderland magic as you drive through the streets.

• When: All of December
• Where: 616 Preserve Pkwy, Birmingham, AL 35226

2. Pepper Tree Neighborhood in Trussville

Trussville has some can’t-miss lights for display. Pepper Tree Lane transforms into one of the brightest, most festive spots in town. Turn on your favorite Christmas music and take a holly-jolly drive through the neighborhood.

• When: All of December
• Where: Peppertree Lane, Trussville, AL 35173

3. Chestnut Road in Vestavia Hills

From the Grinch to Charlie Brown, Chestnut Road in Vestavia has some impressive Christmas lights. Neighbors light up their houses each year to spread some holiday cheer.

• When: All of December
• Where: Chestnut Rd, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216

4. Downtown BHM Holiday Ornament Trail on 20th

The Downtown BHM Holiday Ornament Trail brings a festive touch to 20th Street with ten oversized, artist-designed ornaments created by Birmingham-based talent. Each 4-foot piece reflects a different interpretation of holiday magic, adding color and personality to the stretch between 1st Avenue North and Linn Park.

• When: All of December
• Where: 20th St. N. Birmingham, AL

5. Regions Center Annual Building Lighting

The Regions Center Annual Building Lighting marks the start of the holiday season in downtown Birmingham with its recognizable window-light designs across the tower. Each year, the building is illuminated with seasonal shapes that can be seen from several blocks away, drawing residents downtown to watch the lights come on for the first time and enjoy a familiar Birmingham tradition.

• When: All of December
• Where: Regions Center Plaza, 1900 5th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203

6. City of Birmingham Holiday Tree Lighting

Birmingham is getting into the holiday spirit with its annual tree lighting event outside City Hall. The ceremony takes place in the early evening, giving residents a chance to enjoy the seasonal atmosphere and mark the start of Birmingham’s holiday festivities. 

• When: Sunday, Dec. 7 | 4PM-7PM
• Where: 710 20th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203

7. City of Hoover Christmas Tree Lighting

The City of Hoover’s Christmas Tree Lighting marks the start of the holiday season with a community-focused evening. Santa arrives on a fire truck before heading into the library for photos with families, and guests can enjoy sweet treats and performances from local groups. The event finishes with a Hoover City Schools student switching on the Christmas tree.

• When: Tuesday, Dec. 2 | 6PM
• Where: Hoover City Hall, 100 Municipal Dr, Hoover, AL 35216

8. Lights of Noel at Birmingham Race Course

Grab some hot chocolate and come experience Alabama’s largest drive-thru animated light show, Lights of Noel. The synchronized Christmas music adds a fun touch that makes it a solid choice for a holiday outing in Birmingham.

• When: Now-Jan. 4 | Open nightly 5PM-12AM | Closed Dec. 24, 25, 31 & Jan 1
• Where: Birmingham Race Course, Winners Way, Birmingham, AL 35235
• Website | Facebook | Tickets

9. Magic of Lights at Alabama Adventure

Magic of Lights at Alabama Adventure is a drive-through holiday display featuring a mile-long route of illuminated scenes and themed light installations. The event runs from November through early January and allows visitors to enjoy the lights from their car.

• When: Dec. 12-Jan. 3 | 5:30PM-10PM
• Where: Alabama Adventure, 4599 Splash Adventure Pkwy, Bessemer, AL 35022
• Website | Facebook | Tickets

10. Glow Wild at Birmingham Zoo

Glow Wild at the Birmingham Zoo offers a fun way to experience the season with colorful lanterns and illuminated displays throughout the grounds. The combination of bright light installations and detailed artwork makes it a standout seasonal activity for anyone in Birmingham.

• When: Wednesdays-Sundays, Now-Jan. 4, 2026 | 5PM-9PM
• Where: Birmingham Zoo, 2630 Cahaba Rd, Birmingham, AL 35223
• Website | Facebook | Tickets

11. Wacky Tacky Light Tour

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The Wacky Tacky Light Tour is a guided bus ride through some of Birmingham’s most decorated holiday homes and neighborhoods. Hosted each year as a community event, it takes groups to several well-known displays across the metro area.

The tour lasts a little over two hours, and participants can expect music, lights and a casual, laid-back atmosphere as the bus makes its way through each stop. Tickets are required in advance and the tour typically departs from the Homewood area.

• When: Thursday, Dec. 16 + 18 | 6PM-10PM
• Where: 2727 18th St S, Birmingham, AL 35209
• Website | Instagram | Tickets

This guide was created by Emma Johnston and updated by Makenzi Fultz.

Do you have a favorite Birmingham spot to view holiday lights? Drop it in the comments on Instagram + Facebook!