We’re on “pines and needles” anticipating the holliest and jolliest December events on campus and in Tuscaloosa. It will be a season you will never forget.
December Events on Campus & Around Town
Pine & Prosecco
Dec. 6, 6-8 p.m., Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion
Historic Tuscaloosa presents Yuletide Socials. At this event, you sip on prosecco as you arrange a holiday bouquet beside Leska Taylor of Leska Creative. You will leave with an evergreen creation made by the one and only you. Tickets are $150 per person.
Mistletoe & Masterpieces
Dec. 7, 6-7 p.m., Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion
Enjoy a pleasant evening of art, music and hors d’oeuvres. Wine, beer and desserts will be provided. Tickets are $25.
Amahl and the Night Visitors
Dec. 10, 3 p.m., Bryant-Jordan Hall
This beloved operatic performance tells the tale of the young boy Amahl who sees a special star and is curious about its meaning. He is met by three kings on their way to worship a newborn child, and belief leads to healing and love for him and his devoted mother. This warm and winning holiday presentation is perfect for all audiences, and special arrangements are made for children to meet Amahl and his sheep and the kings.
Alabama Museum of Natural History Holiday Open House
Dec. 14, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Celebrate the holidays with the Alabama Museum of Natural History. Bring your family and friends to enjoy the season together. Admission is free all day during the museum’s regular operating hours 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Crafts and activities will be available from 2 to 4 p.m.
Merry Roll Tide Party
Dec. 15, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Paul W. Bryant Museum
Enjoy food, drinks, crafts, games and prizes at this family event. Admission is free all day. The first 50 guests will receive a scratch-off discount card to be used in the store on select merchandise. Raffle prizes include football autographed by Tua Tagovailoa and DeVonta Smith, fan gear spirit pack and more. Stop by to create a holiday card for your favorite Alabama student-athlete, coach or mascot and it will be delivered to them!
Holly Jolly Party
Dec. 18, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Mildred Westervelt Warner Transportation Museum
This free, family-friendly event will have visits with Father Christmas, live music by members of the Northridge High School band, a hybrid car display courtesy of Townsend Honda and Townsend Nissan, keepsake ornament crafting and La Mexicana food truck.
Christmas Interactive Murder Mystery Dining Event
Dec. 15, 7-10:30 p.m., Historic Drish House
If you’re looking to branch out, then try this Christmas Interactive Murder Mystery dinner. A classic holiday whodunnit held at a grand and historic venue.
Christmas Card Camp
Dec. 18 and 19, 11 a.m.-noon, Kentuck Art Center
There are few gifts more special than a sentimental homemade card. This class will teach you how to make one look professional but still personal by using multiple art media forms. While open to all ages, children 10 and under must be with an adult. Camps require at least three participants, with a maximum of 12. If the minimum is not met, participants will receive a refund.
Candlelight Christmas Concert
Dec 20, 6:30-8:45 p.m., Tuscaloosa River Market
Basking under the soft illumination of candlelight, soak in the beauty of instrumental holiday hits. Tickets start at $38. Doors open 45 minutes before the start time for this ADA-compliant venue. Ages 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Tuscaloosa Tinsel Trail, benefiting Tuscaloosa’s One Place
Through Jan. 17, 2024, Government Plaza
Walk in a winter wonderland down aisles of nearly 200 festive trees. Note: Free parking is available in the city’s parking deck.
Holidays on the Plaza Ice Skating Fun
Through Jan. 15, 2024, Government Plaza
The city of Tuscaloosa is hosting a temporary ice skating rink in Government Plaza by the Tinsel Trail. And, it’s available only during this time of year. Don’t forget to bring socks! Skates are available for rental. Free parking is available in the city’s parking deck.
Sports
Not all December events are holiday-related, as basketball fans can attest.
Women’s Basketball: Fifth Grade Fast Break Game
Dec. 6, 11:30 a.m., Coleman Coliseum
Fifth graders from across Tuscaloosa County will take over Coleman Coliseum as the Tide takes on Eastern Carolina. Admission to the game is free.
Women’s Basketball: Holiday Hoops Weekend
Dec. 9 and 10, 2 p.m., Coleman Coliseum
On Saturday, the first 400 fans inside Coleman Coliseum will receive a custom Roll Tide ugly sweater shirt and the chance to decorate their own stocking before tipoff. On Sunday, the first 100 fans who bring a teddy bear to donate for the annual halftime Teddy Boss Toss will get a Roll Tide ugly sweater! Free hot chocolate for all fans entering Coleman and an ornament decorating station will be available prior to tipoff.
Other Women’s Basketball Home Games:
- vs. ULM, Dec. 17, noon
- vs. Jacksonville, Dec. 20, 6 p.m.
- vs. Mississippi Valley State, Dec. 31, 2 p.m.
Men’s Basketball:
- vs. Eastern Kentucky, Dec. 23, 3 p.m.
Powerade Power of Pink Wheelchair Basketball Tournament
Dec. 8, 9 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 6:15 p.m.; Dec. 9, 11 a.m., Stran-Hardin Arena
Join Adapted Athletics to see the Tide play in this tournament along with games, giveaways and halftime entertainment.