'Tis the season to know what’s going on in Auburn/Opelika for the Christmas Season!

If you are in the Deep South right now you have been greeted this first day of December with some winter weather! This time of year is suppose to have colder weather and to me makes the season even more enjoyable. There is something about having to bundle up to go outside or enjoy a hot cup of coffee in this type of weather that makes me ready for the holidays.

Ella is ready to open some Christmas presents!

This year has already been a little more special. Ella is now going on three and is really getting the ‘spirit’ of the season. For those of you that know Ella this comes as no surprise. We decided to put up our Christmas tree the Monday before Thanksgiving since we were leaving town later in the week. Ella jumped right in, unwrapped all the ornaments and commented on many of them. Anna and I really enjoyed getting our help from our little elf this year. This morning when Ella woke up she came running to me with a gift in her hand from under the tree. She said “Do we get to open these today?” It was precious but I had to explain she only had 25 more days to go. To a two year old that seems like an eternity!

The main reason for the blog is to let you know of the many wonderful events taking place in the Auburn/Opelika area this next month. This is by no means a comprehensive list but will give you a great flavor of events you can plan to attend in the area. I will sort by date and start with two ongoing events in the area. I will link as many of the names I can to outside websites for more information.


November 19-December 30 – Callaway Christmas in Lights
I have never attended this event. Luckily this year a good friend, Josh Pender, was able to get us discounted tickets through his work. Our plans are to go check it out this year and see what it is all about.

Picture courtesy of callawaygardens.com

December 2-5, 9-12, 16-31 – 19th Annual Christmas in Lights at Montgomery Zoo
If you enjoy seeing lights and also have a love for animals this is a great event. I have not attended this since I was in high school. Sad to say that has been over 10 years ago now. At that time you could take a train ride…be sure to bundle up!

 December 1 – Opelika Downtown Christmas Parade
The good news is you do not have to wait long to get in the spirit! Opelika will have a parade starting at 4 pm with over 70 floats, marching bands and of course Santa! Roads are blocked off starting at 3 pm so go early and find a spot to enjoy.


December 2-3 – Super 6 at Jordan Hare Stadium

You know I would have to include a few sporting events. For the first time the AHSAA Football Championship games will be played in Jordan Hare Stadium. Auburn and Tuscaloosa teamed up a few years ago to bring those games to the respective cities ever other year. It is an excellent event for the city, University and the many high school athletes that will be able to fight for a state championship for their schools. Check out the link for teams and times of the games.

Picture courtesy of super6au.com

December 4 – SEC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME – AUBURN vs. SOUTH CAROLINA
Congrats to our Tigers being Western SEC Division Champs and Iron Bowl Champs! Now all AU has to do is win Saturday and they will play for the BCS National Championship! Tune in to CBS at 3pm. WAR EAGLE!!

Anna and I enjoying our win at the 2010 Iron Bowl! War Eagle! 28-27!

December 8-12 – Victorian Porch Tour, Opelika
If you have never driven through, or walked for that matter, you need to go check it out this year. This has become one of our favorite parts of the season. You get to take a step back in time as the beautiful homes of Historic Opelika are decorated with Victorian themes. All nights except the 11 you can drive through the route. On Saturday the 11th, the roads will be blocked and allow only pedestrians to enjoy. From 2nd Avenue you can go down either 9th or 10th Streets to enjoy the tour.

December 10 – Christmas in a Railroad Town, Opelika

This event is downtown Opelika from 6-9pm. There will be music, food and even a wagon ride you can take through the Victorian Porch Tour. This is a fun event for everyone!

Ella and Brooks enjoyed Christmas in a Railroad Town-2009

December 11 – Auburn City Christmas Parade
This was originally planned for December 4. It was moved a week later because of Auburn playing in the above mentioned SEC Championship game. The parade starts at 10 am in downtown Auburn.

Picture courtesy of auburnchamber.com

December 16 – Collinwood Luminaries

I have never attended this but plan to try and check it out this year. This is an event by the neighbors in the Collinwood area of Opelika. They help put you in the spirit of Christmas with their on special tour with luminaries.


DOWNTOWN SHOPPING – Need to buy some gifts? Check out the shops in downtown Opelika and Auburn. From December 17-31 Auburn is not charging for parking downtown. Take advantage of our wonderful shops to complete your holiday shopping lists!

I hope this helps as you plan your events for December!  I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!  Remember me for all your real estate needs in Auburn, Opelika and Lee County!

Ashley D. Miller - www.ashleydmiller.com - ashleymiller@remax.net - 334-332-8328