Arab to light up the holidays with more than 2 million lights at Christmas in the Park

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November 15, 2026

Visit North Alabama (Facebook, 256 Today)

More than 2 million twinkling lights will transform Arab City Park into a winter wonderland when Christmas in the Park returns Nov. 27 for its 32nd year, bringing one of North Alabama’s favorite holiday traditions back for another season.

Hosted by the City of Arab and Arab Parks and Recreation, the annual celebration runs through Dec. 31, featuring illuminated displays, holiday decorations and plenty of opportunities for family photos.

The festivities begin the day after Thanksgiving with a lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. in the center of Arab’s Historic Village. The Arab Jazz Band will perform holiday favorites as the park comes to life with Christmas lights.

Visitors can stroll through the illuminated park nightly from dusk until 9:30 p.m., weather permitting. Admission is free.

Santa comes to the village

The celebration continues with Santa in the Village, when the adjacent Arab Historic Village transforms into a holiday destination filled with activities for all ages.

Families can visit Santa Claus, meet the Grinch, stop by the gristmill to pick up food for the reindeer and watch the village blacksmith make reindeer shoes.

The historic buildings will also be open and decorated for Christmas, offering visitors a glimpse of holiday traditions from years past.

Santa in the Village is scheduled for Nov. 27 and Dec. 4, 11 and 18, from 5:30 to 9 p.m., weather permitting.

Both Christmas in the Park and Santa in the Village are free to attend.

Arab City Park is located at 844 Shoal Creek Trail. Visitors attending Santa in the Village can enter at 863 Fry Gap Road.

Christmas in the Park continues through New Year’s Eve, giving families more than a month to enjoy the holiday displays.

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