Auburn-Opelika Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
Get ready for a magical holiday season in Opelika with the SNOPELIKA Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting! This beloved event kicks off the festive season with a spectacular parade themed around "Christmas Movies," bringing favorite characters and cinematic cheer to life. Following the parade, Courthouse Square transforms into a winter wonderland with falling snow, Santa Claus meet-and-greets, and local vendors. The night culminates with the breathtaking lighting of Opelika's 72-foot Christmas tree, the second tallest in Alabama, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.
What to Expect
Opelika's 72-foot Christmas tree lighting ceremony
Event Details
Duration
Starting at 5:30 PM CT
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Opelika
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Opelika Chamber of Commerce
Food & Drink
Food trucks and local vendors will be available.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, community members
Vibe
Festive, magical, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Rain or shine
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $ – Get tickets
- Parking: Public parking is available at the Opelika Chamber Parking Lot (200 S 6th St), Opelika City Hall & The Surcie House (204 S 7th St), and street parking along N Railroad Ave, 1st Ave, and N 8th St on the north side of the railroad tracks. Handicap parking is at the Lee County Courthouse back parking lot.
- Accessibility: Handicap-accessible parking is available in the back parking lot of the Lee County Courthouse, accessible from S 10th St.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure parking and a good viewing spot for the parade, as downtown streets close at 2:00 PM and the event starts at 5:30 PM.
- Utilize the free Park & Ride shuttle service from Southern Union State Community College to avoid downtown traffic and parking challenges.
- Dress warmly and in layers, as the event takes place outdoors in December and may include falling artificial snow.
- Bring your camera for photos with Santa and to capture the magical winter wonderland atmosphere in Courthouse Square.
- Check the parade application deadline (October 16, 2026) if you are interested in submitting a float for the "Christmas Movies" themed parade.
Special Events & Promotions
- "Christmas Movies" themed parade
- Falling artificial snow in Courthouse Square
- Photos with Santa Claus
- Lighting of the 72-foot Christmas tree
- Park & Ride shuttle service
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the theme for this year's Opelika Christmas Parade?
This year's parade theme is "Christmas Movies," bringing favorite holiday films and characters to life with festive floats and decorations.
Where is the SNOPELIKA celebration located?
The SNOPELIKA celebration, featuring falling snow and Santa meet-and-greets, takes place in Courthouse Square in downtown Opelika.
Is there parking available for the event?
Yes, public parking is available at designated lots and on certain streets. Handicap parking is also available at the Lee County Courthouse.
What time do the downtown streets close for the event?
Downtown Opelika streets will close at 2:00 PM to allow for parade float lineup and will reopen after the event at 8:30 PM.
Is there a cost to attend the SNOPELIKA event?
The SNOPELIKA Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting event itself is free to attend. Food and vendor items will be available for purchase.
More Christmas Events Near Opelika
More Christmas Events near Opelika
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.