holiday spirit

Governor Kay Ivey is preparing to light the Alabama Capitol Christmas tree. The theme of this year’s ceremony is “Every Light a Prayer for Peace.” The official state Christmas tree is a 38-foot Eastern Red Cedar from Bullock County. Throughout the week, the tree has been adorned with approximately 40,000 lights and an assortment of ornaments.

Santa Claus, free hot chocolate, live music, a coat collection drive and the holiday spirit will be front and center at “A ‘Claus’ for Celebration” in Huntsville this weekend. The inaugural event promises to warm even the Grinch-iest of hearts.

The Auburn Community Orchestra is set to provide an evening of musical cheer. The annual holiday concert will take place at the Auburn United Methodist Church on Thursday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m., featuring traditional and several sing-along tunes.

Holiday cheer is being spread around by The University of Alabama Museums. Free events are being offered at Gorgas House Museum, Paul W. Bryant Museum and Alabama Museum of Natural History during "the most wonderful time of the year."

The Alabama Capitol is getting into the holiday spirit. This year’s official State Christmas Tree has made its way to Alabama State Capitol from Bullock County. Governor Kay Ivey will hold the annual Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday evening.

The City of Tuscaloosa’s seasonal ice-skating rink is returning to Government Plaza in downtown Tuscaloosa this week. Holidays on the Plaza is set to open on Friday Nov. 29, alongside the Tuscaloosa One Place's Tinsel Trail.

Family and friend get-togethers, massive meals, football, office parties, gift-giving and all things festive come with the holiday season, but dangers can still be present. The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) is offering the following tips and resources for the safest, happiest and healthiest holiday season possible.

The registration deadline for an annual drive-through donation event put on by Auburn Public Safety is fast approaching. Donations are helping make the season brighter for families in need through the Auburn Toy Drive. The event provides toys for children ages 2-14. Registration to receive toys runs through Nov. 15.

Auburn Public Safety is excited to announce the return of its annual drive-through donation event. Residents and local businesses are invited to help make the season brighter for families in need through the Auburn Toy Drive. Registration to receive toys runs through Nov. 15.

Downtown Huntsville is offering three holiday attractions this holiday season. The inaugural “Rockin’ Around the Rocket City” event includes a Tinsel Trail, Skating in the Park and the Rocket City Tree. All can be found in Big Spring Park. The attractions are a partnership with Downtown Huntsville, Inc. and the Huntsville Museum of Art.