A variety of events take place in Alabama each year, including its most famous event of all - Mardi Gras. This weekend officially kicked off Mardi Gras 2019 in Mobile, Alabama. It'll come to an end on Tuesday, March 5. Although most people will celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana this year, there are quite a few reasons why everyone should consider celebrating it in Mobile.
Listed below are eight undeniable reasons why everyone should attend this year's Mardi Gras in Mobile, Alabama.
1. Mobile, Alabama is the birthplace of America's Mardi Gras.
Most people believe Mardi Gras, which means "Fat Tuesday" in French, got its start in Louisiana. However, America's first Mardi Gras took place in 1703 in Mobile, Alabama. This was actually 15 years prior to its start in Louisiana.
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2. For the most part, Mardi Gras in Mobile is family friendly.
Sure, Mardi Gras in New Orleans is family friendly, but anyone who's ever attended both celebrations will tell you that Mobile's Mardi Gras is far less rowdy and more family friendly.
3. Mobile's Mardi Gras parade floats are spectacular!
Because more people associate Mardi Gras with New Orleans, it only makes sense that more people will be attending the festivities in "The Big Easy" this year.
6. The city of Mobile has its very own Carnival Museum.
While touring this unique museum, you'll get to view several gowns, crowns, scepters, and extravagant robes of Mobile's past Mardi Gras kings and queens. You'll also get to view an impressive collection of historical photographs. You can visit the Mobile Carnival Museum at 355 Government St., Mobile, AL 36602.
7. During your stay in Mobile, you'll have access to lots of interesting places to visit, including the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is one of Alabama's most spectacular pieces of architecture. This gorgeous cathedral took 15 years to build and opened to the public in 1850. It's a definite must-see while you're in Mobile. You can visit the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception at 2 S Claiborne St., Mobile, AL 36602.
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8. You'll also have access to some of Alabama's best restaurants, including the city's famous Wintzell's Oyster House.
Wintzell's Oyster House, which recently celebrated its 80th anniversary, is one of Mobile's most popular restaurants. It started as a six stool oyster bar in 1938 and is now one of Alabama's best seafood restaurants. There are eight Wintzell's Oyster Houses in Alabama, and you can visit the Downtown Mobile location at 605 Dauphin St.
If you've ever celebrated Mardi Gras in Mobile, Alabama, please share your experience with us in the comments. Also, please share with us other reasons to attend this year's Mardi Gras in Mobile.
For a list of more interesting facts about Mobile, Alabama that just might surprise you, click here.
We don't need snow to make the most of the winter season in the Heart of Dixie. In fact, it's when things really start to get lit around here. May I present to you Exhibit A – the many spectacular Christmas light displays in Alabama. I've rounded up some of the best Christmas lights in Alabama here in North Alabama, plus many more throughout the state. Make plans to get into the spirit of the season as our cities and small towns step out in their best holiday attire.
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1. Galaxy of Lights - Huntsville
A beloved tradition for Christmas lights in Huntsville, Alabama, Galaxy of Lights at the Huntsville Botanical Garden enchants visitors of all ages. Millions of lights fill twinkling trees and create optical illusions that will beam you to another world. There are designated nights for driving through and walking – and even a few just for dog walking. The display is open from mid-November through the end of December. Check the website for ticket rates based on membership and event dates.
A must-do for drive-through Christmas lights in Madison, Alabama, the annual Rocket City Christmas Light Show at Toyota Field runs from mid-November through December. The show features nearly one million synchronized lights spread across 1.5 miles. Winter Wonderland offers more attractions, including a 15-foot snow globe, Christmas Village huts, and special character appearances. Enjoy shopping for crafts, and indulge in treats like s'mores, hot chocolate, and cider. Plus, support non-profit organizations through the Rocket City Trash Pandas Foundation Tree Sale in partnership with various charities. Over 65,000 families have enjoyed this event in the past three years.
3. Christmas at the Grotto - Cullman
Christmas at the Grotto truly is a one-of-a-kind take on Christmas lights in Cullman, Alabama. An annual tradition, St. Bernard's Ave Maria Grotto will be adorned with the mesmerizing brilliance of Christmas lights, illuminating the creations of Brother Joseph Zoettl, OSB, a Benedictine monk of St. Bernard Abbey. Since 1934, this sacred place has drawn visitors from all corners of the globe to witness his intricate miniature reproductions of important places worldwide. Live music, refreshments, and train rides for kids are available nightly throughout the Christmas event. The festivities include visits from Santa Claus, music performances, food trucks, kids’ rides, and horse-drawn wagon rides around the St. Bernard's campus.
4. Wonderland Under Warrior - Warrior
You'll go on a magical adventure underground to see these Christmas lights in Warrior, Alabama. Rickwood Caverns State Park’s Wonderland Under Warrior is subterranean and sublime with its dazzling lights, lasers, and holiday displays. The cave keeps a consistent temperature of 62 degrees, so dress appropriately depending on what the Alabama weather is doing the day you go. It's an easy trip from Birmingham - just 20 miles north.
5. Christmas at the Falls - Gadsden
Discover the captivating Christmas at the Falls at Noccalula Falls in Gadsden, Alabama, a cherished annual tradition. From Thanksgiving night through December, the event offers not only stunning light displays but also a festive atmosphere with craft vendors and tasty treats. Noccalula Falls also offers a couple of dog-friendly evenings for your sugar pup fairies. Keep an eye out for Santa, who'll be spreading cheer until the day before Christmas Eve when he departs for his day job. Or I guess that would be his night job? Either way, get your Santa pics while you can.
It's often said the best gifts are homemade. By that measure, these Christmas lights near Gadsden, Alabama, will be at the top of your wish list. Every holiday season over four decades, devoted light display lovers in the know go to the Gilley family's property in Ballplay. In this unincorporated Etowah County community east of Gadsden, you'll be transported to a world of whimsy and mechanical magic. The late family patriarch J.C. GIlley began engineering the animated marvels in the 1980s, and the family has carried on the legacy since his passing in 2002. In 2018, the display won the $50,000 grand prize on ABC's The Great Christmas Light Fight. Visiting is free, and the show typically begins Thanksgiving night, weather permitting.
7. Lights of Noel - Birmingham
If you're looking for drive-through Christmas lights in Birmingham, Alabama, head east of the city core to Birmingham Race Course starting Nov. 22 through Jan. 1. The venue boasts the state's largest drive-through animated light show and is open daily from 5 p.m. to midnight. The costs are $25 for family cars or vans, and $40 for activity vans, limos, or mini-buses Monday through Thursday. Prices go up $10 for both categories during peak days of Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. When you go, follow the signs to enter at Winners Way versus entering the casino parking.
8. Festival of Lights - Oxford
Christmas lights in Oxford, Alabama transform the city's Choccolocco Park each year for the Festival of Lights from mid-November through Christmas Eve. The accompanying Santa's Village rounds out the wintry wonderfulness with activities like ice skating, inflatable games, and delightful treats. Keep your camera ready to capture a special moment with Santa himself. Surround yourself with family, friends, and the magical glow of Christmas lights. Admission ranges from $25 and up per carload, depending on the vehicle size and number of passengers.
9. Christmas Lights Festival & Christmas Tree Village - Montgomery
You won't believe how wild it gets with these Christmas lights in Montgomery, Alabama, what with all the lions, giraffes, and elephants nearby. The Montgomery Zoo's Christmas Lights Festival and Christmas Tree Village welcome guests during December. Wander through the illuminated wonderland on foot, by train, or take a skylift ride. At the Mann Museum, you can visit with Santa and see over two dozen decorated trees in the Christmas Tree Village. Plan to stop for hot cocoa and cookies at the Overlook Cafe and finish your holiday shopping at the zoo and museum gift shops.
10. Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens - Theodore
These Christmas lights near Mobile, Alabama are the only production in the Southeast to have made USA Today’s top 10 ranking of botanical garden holiday light displays. Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens in Theodore, Alabama is a stunner with millions of lights and over 1,000 features spread across 65 acres. The historic gardens and home delight the senses year-round and somehow become more spectacular during the holiday season. For a bit of backstory, this beautiful destination continues the legacy of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Bellingrath, who first opened their gardens to the public in 1932. Mr. Bellingrath built his fortune as one of the country's first Coca-Cola bottlers at the turn of the 20th century.
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11. LuLu's Lighted Boat Parade - Gulf Shores
Go for casual coastal vibes of Christmas lights in Gulf Shores, Alabama at LuLu’s Lighted Boat Parade, which begins at LuLu’s & Homeport Marina. Dozens of brightly decorated boats of all styles and sizes take to the Intracoastal Waterway to cruise along to Orange Beach. While this free event usually happens on an early December Saturday at dusk, you’ll want to check the LuLu’s Facebook page to confirm the date. It’s a popular parade, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Considering many of these displays are within a reasonable drive of Birmingham, why not make even more holiday weekends with a getaway? Staying with the seasonal theme, consider booking a stay at Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa, which goes big with classic holiday decor. The resort also hosts special holiday activities through December, such as fireside storytelling, making s'mores, and watching holiday movies.
Where do you think the best Christmas lights in Alabama can be found? We'd love to hear about your experience and traditions around visiting them!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
