Luckily, several events are held throughout Alabama that let us celebrate the Christmas season with our families. One of these events is the Tinsel Trail in Alabama. It's one of the things that makes Christmas in Alabama so special. Let's explore the Alabama Tinsel Trail in 2023, including why it belongs on your holiday bucket list:
The Tinsel Trail is an annual Christmas tree display that's located in downtown Huntsville at Big Spring Park. It receives numerous visitors each year from the North Alabama region and beyond.
More than 400 Christmas trees, many of them live, will be on display this year, with each one sponsored by either a business, a group, or a family. Because the trees are creatively decorated, no two are alike.
Over the years, many families have made it a tradition to visit Big Spring Park to take a stroll along its festive Tinsel Trail. In addition to it being such a unique event, it's also different year after year.
If you're in the Huntsville area this Christmas season, consider taking a stroll along its Tinsel Trail. It'll most definitely put you in the holiday spirit.
Take a closer look at this beautiful trail of lights:
Do you plan to visit the Tinsel Trail in Alabama this Christmas Season? If so, please let us know in the comments. If not, get yourself to Huntsville and check it out in person!
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...
The best fall festivals in Alabama celebrate much more than the season itself. While you'll see pumpkins, hay bales, colorful mums, and seasonal displays, what sets these festivals apart are the music, food, and especially how they honor the many different cultural traditions of people who live here. Some go above and beyond by benefiting community causes.
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Visiting more fall festivals near me is a big priority this season. It's hard to find a more authentic experience in places than surrounding yourself with residents showing such pride in their communities, people, and heritage. While you’re out exploring the state this fall, don’t miss our guide to the best pumpkin patches in Alabama for 2024.
First up is Hartselle's Depot Days, a series of community events that culminate in an all-day, free festival throughout its historic downtown and depot area. Held to honor the city's railroad history, the festival is the city's largest annual event. Streets close to traffic to make room for scores of food and craft vendors who set up alongside a dizzying assortment of cars, trucks, motorcycles, and tractors entered in festival shows and competitions. You can also expect live music and special activities for kids. Visit the Hartselle Depot Days Facebook page for hours and other details.
2. Montgomery Smooth Jazz Fest, Montgomery, Sept. 20-21, 2024
Ease into the season with the sounds of classic jazz and R&B from top national artists at one of the state's newest events, the Montgomery Smooth Jazz Festival, which marks its third year in 2024. The scenic Alabama River sets the mood at the festival site, which features main-stage shows at the Riverwalk Amphitheater on the edge of Riverfront Park. Visit the Montgomery Smooth Jazz Festival website for more event details. Pro tip: When in the capital city, do not miss the chance to stop by Chris’ Famous Hotdogs, one of Alabama's oldest restaurants and longest traditions.
If you attend this one, be prepared to raise a stein in honor of the city's 150th anniversary at its signature celebration of German heritage. Cullman's founder, Col. Johann Gottfried Cullmann, was a German refugee who came to America in 1866 and established the town just seven years later. The festival is almost 50 years old and features events throughout the city, with most held at the festively decorated Festhalle Farmer's Market and Depot Park. Activities range from a costumed pet parade and races for runners to traditional German dancing, music, and food. It's one of the best things to do in Alabama in the fall. Get finer details on the Cullman Oktoberfest website or by visiting the Cullman Oktoberfest Facebook page. Get more tips about things to do in Cullman in our recent roundup.
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4. Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention, Athens, Oct. 2-5, 2024
Join the more than 15,000 people who show up to hear over 200 musicians perform and compete as part of the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention on the grounds of Athens State University. This year marks the 57th year for the festival, which celebrates the ancestral Appalachian roots music of many of the area's early settlers. There's plenty to do when you're fiddling around between the fiddlin', like workshops to learn how to play the fiddle, guitar, or banjo. There's also a large craft vendor area, a food court, a museum, and more. This is certainly one of the most unique Alabama fall festivals. Visit the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention website for scheduled performers and competitions and the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention Facebook page for the latest news.
5. Moody Oktoberfest & Cruisin' for a Miracle Car Show, Moody, Oct. 5, 2024
For a fall festival near Birmingham that's also for a great cause, check out the Moody Oktoberfest, which includes the Cruisin' for a Miracle Car Show. Moody is about a 30-minute drive east of the Magic City and hosts its annual fall annual arts and crafts festival at Moody City Park. Something especially heartwarming about this event is its companion car show, which benefits the city's Miracle League Special Needs Baseball organization. For car show details, visit the Cruisin’ for a Miracle Car Show Facebook page. For more info on the entire festival, visit the Oktoberfest Moody Facebook page.
Although the Mentone Fall Festival took on a new name this year, people can expect all the family fun, arts, and shopping they loved when it was called Colorfest before. The festival will return to Moon Lake Village after a successful move there in 2022. It's the perfect place because the festival supports the village's continued evolution from a 1920s school campus into a destination for shops and studios. While in Mentone, don’t miss the opportunity to hike the popular (and moderate) 1.9-mile Desoto Falls Bottom and Bluff Overlook trail. Visit the Mentone Fall Festival website or the Mentone Fall Festival Facebook page for more event details.
For many Mobile residents, the beginning of fall makes their mouths start watering for the flaky, perfectly gooey baklava and light, airy loukoumades they can find at the long-running Mobile Greek Fest. The event began as Greek Night in 1962 at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church and has grown to include multiple events over three days, including a bazaar with authentic Greek items, Greek music and dance performances, and again - the food! Important tip: The event is cashless, so bring your debit or credit card for purchases. Visit the Mobile Greek Fest website or the Mobile Greek Fest Facebook page for more event details.
Evergreen is in Conecuh County, and if you're not yet aware of the hickory-smoked pork sausage that carries the county name, you can get acquainted fast by attending the 20th Annual Conecuh Sausage Festival. Conecuh Sausage is a family-owned business that originated in Evergreen in 1947, and the meats are sold throughout more than 20 states today. For over 20 years, this festival has simply celebrated something the community is known for, with a day full of food and crafts vendors, a car show, a rodeo, and kids' activities. It's held at the regional airport, which hosts a fly-in that day. Admission to the festival is free with a separate fee for the rodeo. Visit the Evergreen Chamber Facebook page for more details and event updates.
9. Alabama Renaissance Faire, Florence, October 26-27, 2024
People in Florence know to look out for lords, ladies, and lots of merriment in the downtown's Wilson Park every fall when the Alabama Renaissance Faire has taken place every fourth weekend of October since 1987. This year's event is set for Oct. 26-27. While the festival is free to attend, it's wise to bring cash for vendors selling all sorts of period-appropriate attire, accessories, weapons, and tasty treats. Don't miss the crowning of new royalty on Sunday afternoon, after which the king and queen lead a procession. For more details, visit the Alabama Renaissance Faire Facebook page.
10. Dia de los Muertos Alabama, Birmingham, Nov. 2, 2024
Dia de los Muertos Alabama has become one of the Southeast's most spectacularly colorful experiences for the senses and spirit since it began 21 years ago. There's art at every turn, from installations and vendors to the finery worn by performers and festival-goers. The local Day of the Dead celebration grew from the mission of a Birmingham arts nonprofit organization, Bare Hands, Inc., and is held at the city's Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark. Visit the Dia de los Muertos Alabama official event page or the Dia de los Muertos Alabama Facebook page for more event details.
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11. National Peanut Festival Fair, Dothan, Nov. 1-10, 2024
Closing our list is the longest and largest of the best fall festivals in Alabama, which is a community crop celebration and traditional fair all rolled into one. The National Peanut Festival Fair is Dothan's oldest and biggest event and takes the theme "Peanuts Galore and So Much More!" Dothan is the Peanut Capital of the World, so this year's fair doubles down on celebrating the farmers and their part in driving the Wiregrass economy. There's a massive midway full of thrilling rides, big-name music performances, extensive agricultural demonstrations and displays, and all the fair food you can handle. It should go without saying the boiled peanuts are a must-do, but we're saying it anyway. This is one of the best fall festivals in Alabama! Visit the National Peanut Festival website or the National Peanut Festival Facebook page for more event details.
Have you been to any of these fall festivals in Alabama in the past? What are some of your favorite ways to celebrate the fall season? Let us know in the comments!
If hiking in Alabama is part of your agenda this fall, make sure to download the AllTrails+ app to your phone and search for hikes near you. You can also check out our Ultimate Hiking Packing List for all the gear you'll need for the trails!
