Snopelika kicks off on Friday, December 5, at 5:30 p.m. with Opelika's beloved Christmas Parade, leading the way to Courthouse Square for falling snow, festive music, and the lighting of Alabama's tallest Christmas tree at 7:30 p.m. This year's parade theme - "A WHOville Holiday" - brings a Dr. Seuss-inspired twist full of whimsical floats, bright colors, and plenty of Grinch-approved cheer! This is a free event for all.
Parade Starts | 5:30 p.m.
Opelika's annual Christmas Parade kicks off the Snopelika Festivities! Local citizens will gather all throughout the downtown streets for the evening parade to see 120+ parade entries. Different themed floats as well as local marching bands, horses, and vintage vehicles will be included!
Snowfall at Courthouse Square | 6:30 p.m.
At the conclusion of the parade, Opelika’s Courthouse Square will transform into a snowy winter wonderland, complete with Christmas music, snowball fights, food trucks, picture opportunities galore, and a chance to visit with Santa Claus and on the Courthouse steps! New this year, families can write letters to Santa and deliver them to Santa's mailbox near the Christmas tree.
Christmas Tree Lighting | 8:00 p.m.
This Christmas, Opelika is lighting a brand new, 72-foot-tall Christmas tree for the official Snopelika Tree Lighting! The 72-foot-tall tree is the tallest Christmas Tree in Alabama and within a 50-mile radius! This magnificent tree, adorned with 4,232 ornaments and 106,200 LED lights will be the centerpiece of Opelika's festive holiday celebrations. Everyone is welcome to gather around and watch as our special guests flip the switch and light the tree kicking off Christmas for the entire town!