Northport's 'Dickens Downtown' Set For Dec. 2

NORTHPORT, AL — Historic Downtown Northport will once again transform into a Victorian-era holiday village as the city hosts its beloved "Dickens Downtown" event on Tuesday, Dec. 2, from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Click here to subscribe to our free daily newsletter and breaking news alerts.

The free, family-friendly celebration will feature snow, carriage rides, live entertainment, historic tours, and holiday shopping, offering a nostalgic kickoff to the Christmas season. Visitors are encouraged to dress in Victorian attire as they stroll through the decorated streets and enjoy a “white Christmas” experience, complete with falling snow.

The evening will open with a grand procession from Northport Baptist Church Chapel along Main Avenue to Historic Shirley Place, followed by the lighting of the community Christmas tree at 5:30 p.m.

ALSO READ: PHOTOS | Northport Hosts Dickens Downtown 2024

This year’s parade will be led by cast members from Theatre Tuscaloosa’s "Scrooge! The Musical," with appearances by the Hard Away Hounds Fox Club of Greensboro, Queen Victoria, and Father Christmas, who will arrive at Historic Shirley Place by horse and carriage. Both will greet visitors throughout the night for photos and holiday wishes.

Other highlights will include a live nativity scene presented by Northport Baptist Church featuring live animals, model train exhibits by the Black Warrior Model Railroad Club, free carriage and train rides, and musical performances by Theatre Tuscaloosa cast members.

The Historic Shirley Place and the West Alabama Heritage Learning Center will also host guided tours and crafts led by local historians.

Downtown merchants will open their doors for special holiday shopping, treats, and music, while local eateries including Billy’s, Mark’s Mart, and Sarah’s Alley Cake Co. will serve food and drinks.

Fundraisers benefiting The Friends of Historic Northport and local church missions will also take place throughout the evening.

Public parking will be available along Main Avenue, 1st Street, and under the levee overpass, with additional parking provided by the Tuscaloosa County Commission at the Synergic Center.

Portable restrooms will be located throughout the area.

For safety reasons, organizers say only service animals with proper certification will be allowed.

Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com.