The week leading up to New Year’s on the Gulf Coast is packed with activities for all ages, offering a perfect blend of festive traditions, outdoor adventures, and local entertainment. From last-minute holiday shopping and visits with Santa to nature programs, live music, and post-Christmas races, the region has something for everyone. Whether you're looking to enjoy the charm of the season or start new traditions with family and friends, this week’s lineup of events ensures there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate and connect.

Monday, December 23rd - Happy Monday to all the last minute, pulling in late members of society. Today is your day. The Wharf foresaw the hustle and is ready for your crunch time. Both today and tomorrow only parents can swing in with the family for a last call with the jolly man himself, Santa Claus, where kids can bring a letter to present their request or write a brand new one in his village. Shops will be open at 10AM and keep the doors swaying until 2PM on both days. Hurry now and get ready to brisk the sidewalks of Main street to catch all the deals and have an exclusive shopping spree passing by others just like you. Be sure to check out not only all the shopping excerpts open for you, but also find dining, AMC movies, and an open ice skating rink. What better way to spend the last couple of days before Christmas than chatting with Santa, and rolling or falling on ice. 

The Wharf

4830 Main St.

Orange Beach, AL 36561

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Tuesday, December 24th - Take to the park for a festive Christmas celebration of Alabama's Gulf Coast wildlife with a program designed for families, groups, and individuals. To embrace the spirit of the season, participants can enjoy steaming cups of rich cocoa while engaging with knowledgeable naturalists for the Gulf State Park eager to share fascinating insights about the unique animals in the region. While everyone may be familiar with playful dolphins and the coast's majestic birds, there are also many land-dwelling animals that thrive along and inland to the known white sandy shores. Come and learn about these animals’ diverse ecosystems and the vital roles they play in the coastal environment. This interactive program will feature engaging presentations, fun activities for children, and opportunities to ask questions about local wildlife. Perfect for all ages, this event is a wonderful way to create lasting memories while deepening your appreciation for the natural world around you. Don’t miss this chance to connect with nature and each other in a truly special setting. 

Gulf State Park Nature Center

22120 Campground Rd

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Cocoa with Critters | Alabama State Parks

Wednesday, December 25th - Merry Christmas.

Thursday, December 26th - The Barometer Tiki and Raw Bar has introduced a new Thursday evening game that promises to be exciting. Starting the day after Christmas and continuing every Thursday from 3 to 5 PM until further notice, guests can join a team or participate solo in a unique trivia game. This isn't just any ordinary trivia; it has a tropical theme that celebrates a beloved tradition recognized by many around the world. The evening is dedicated to Parrot Trivia, embracing the spirit of those who proudly call themselves "Parrot Heads." Gather your friends, test your knowledge, and enjoy good food, good drinks and company in a cozy, heated space. Don't miss your chance to showcase your trivia skills and win exciting prizes and who knows, maybe even start a new family/friend day tradition. 

Tiki and Raw Bar by Barometer

27854 Canal Rd

Orange Beach, AL 36561

Barometer Tiki & Raw Bar Trivia | Facebook

Friday, December 27th - Delta Donnie Mathis, a musical talent missed by the Gulf Coast this year, was inducted into the International Rockabilly Hall of Fame on September 4, 2015, in Jackson, TN. Mathis considers it a huge honor, saying now he is alongside legends like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash. After forming a band that toured extensively in the South, Donnie chose to make the Alabama Gulf Coast his home. However, after releasing two CDs, a devastating house fire caused him to lose everything, including his music studio, which held the third CD set to be released earlier this year. Marbis shares how incredible the journey has been thanks to his fans, his wife and the good Lord. Audiences have been eagerly awaiting the release of his first full recording of original songs and the chance to see him perform live again. The wait in part is finally over. Delta Donnie Mathis is ready and will be performing live from 5 to 8 PM at Tacky Jacks in Fort Morgan. "It's About Time" — he hopes to see you there. 

Tacky Jacks Fort Morgan

1577 HWY 80

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

Locations - Fort Morgan — Tacky Jacks Seafood Restaurant and Tavern

Saturday, December 28th - Don’t tuck your Santa hats away just yet it's time to jump “run, jog, walk or crawl to the line” in your best Santa suit if you so desire for the 4-Mile Run/Walk and 1-Mile Fun Run. Like all the Bama’s big events, this is one folks prepare and look forward to all year long. Picture this: hundreds of Santas and whimsical Clauses racing down the path in a merry spectacle. Not only is this a great chance to hang out the old and start things new and fresh with a workout, it's a laughing fest as well. A hilarious holiday tradition where no smile is left unturned. The first 300 participants will receive exclusive run packets, which include not only a commemorative t-shirt but also a variety of festive goodies to enhance your experience. After crossing the finish line, be sure to stick around and enjoy the lively post-race festivities. Complementary food and beverages will be available to all participants, making it the perfect opportunity to celebrate your achievement and mingle with fellow runners. Don’t miss out on all the fun and laughs this event promises and promotes. 

Flora-Bama Lounge and Package 

17401 Perdido Key Dr. 

Pensacola, FL 32507

FLORA-BAMA MAKE IT TO THE LINE RUN & WALK

Sunday, December 29th - Take a whirl around the Gulf of Mexico with top licensed Captains and Crew from Hudson Marina. In the spirit of the giving season, fishing tours are being offered for just $69, an incredible price for a deep-sea fishing experience. Upon arriving, guests will meet the crew and hoist their belongings aboard one of the USCG approved boats and set out through the pass out into the open waters of the deep blue, often emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Included in the fishing package, participants will have bait, tackle, their own license and everything you need for a successful fishing excursion. All anglers are asked to bring personal comforts, food and beverages they may like and plenty of layers as the land temps drop and the water winds pick up, making it feel 10 degrees cooler by boat. Plan your trip today while these special holiday prices last and make memories that last a lifetime. 

Hudson Marina 

4575 S. Wilson Blvd

Orange Beach, AL 36561

https://fareharbor.com/hudsonmarina/items/?flow=26818