Dauphin Island Holiday Celebrations for the Whole Family

Your typical image of Christmas always involves a pine tree and a healthy sprinkling of snow. Most of the world doesn’t celebrate this way, however, and it doesn’t make Christmas any less enjoyable! In fact, why not trade in a cold, indoor Christmas for some family fun in the sun and sand? Weather on Dauphin Island during the winter season is ideal – not too hot or humid, but still warm enough for the beach. Consider spending your holidays in Dauphin Island where there will be plenty of family fun for all. 

Christmas on the Gulf

Replace snow with sand for a wonderfully festive Christmas on Dauphin Island. Kick-off the festivities with the annual Christmas Parade, which rolls down Bienville Boulevard from Cadillac Square to the DI School. 

Then join the Christmas Tree Lighting Party, hosted at the Water Tower Plaza. There will be music, cookies, hot chocolate, snowball fights, and more. Santa will be making a guest appearance for photos and to distribute a bag full of gifts. Small Christmas trees will be available for individuals to decorate with their own theme. Nearby, small shops will be selling holiday treats, handmade crafts, and everything else you need to complete your holiday shopping list. 

Experience a Christmas of “days gone by” at the 35^th Annual Christmas Thru the Ages. This is a living history event on the grounds of Fort Gaines where soldiers and their families from centuries past celebrate an old-fashioned Christmas. Children can even make seashell Christmas tree ornaments and other decorations. This is a phenomenal cultural event that is not to be missed! 

After touring a festive Fort Gaines, drop by the DIPOA for the extraordinary Dauphin Island Christmas Boat Parade, where decorated, Christmas-themed boats glide by on peaceful Gulf waters. 

New Year’s Celebrations

Across the island, you’ll find many small-scale celebrations. Miguel’s Beach’n Baja and Pirates Bar & Grill are two local favorites for music, drinks, and entertainment. Other good places to look for impromptu gatherings include the water tower in the main downtown area and Dauphin Island Campground. This is one of the best ways to experience Dauphin Island culture and meet locals. Alternatively, you can always spend New Year’s evening watching midnight fireworks from the comfort of your backyard!

For larger gatherings, the wharf at Orange Beach has face painting, a bounce house, mechanical bull, rock wall, and more. At noon, there is a confetti drop for the kids, and evening entertainment includes live music and culminates with fireworks at midnight. Orange Beach is nearly a two-hour drive from Dauphin Island, but it may be worth the distance to bring the New Year in with a bang!

Winter Wednesdays

In January and February, Bellingrath Gardens hosts Winter Wednesdays with a range of classes on gardening, history, and more. Even during the cold season, the gardens offer beautiful plants in bloom. The series begins shortly after New Years and includes deep discounts on holiday merchandise. Admission to the classes includes regular gardens admission, so after class, you are free to roam and explore. Check the Bellingrath Garden website to view their upcoming list of events and time your visit accordingly.