Editor’s note: This story has been updated to include the schedule for 2022. We were the guest of Greater Gadsden Area Tourism during our visit in 2018. We assure you all opinions are our own.
Four years is too long to go without seeing the Christmas wonders in Gadsden, Alabama. We spent a wonderful couple of days there in 2018 enjoying the town and Christmas at the Falls. We are going back this year to see the new train and enjoy the amazing lights. It opens on Nov. 24 and runs through Jan. 1.
Noccalula Falls is lit up like a Christmas dream every year. When we ventured to this North Alabama town, we didn’t expect to be swept up into the holiday spirit before darkness fell and the colorful lights appeared. Gadsden is the place for families to make holiday memories to last a lifetime.
I looked at pictures before we went to Christmas at the Falls and I thought I knew what to expect. I was wrong. Every section of Noccalula Falls Park was uniquely decorated with millions of lights. As approached a group of icicle lights, “Amazing Grace” began to play. I had stop and watch the lights dance to the music.
The train ride is a great way to see the lights in a short amount of time and is included with admission. It’s for big kids and little kids but those over six feet tall will need a bench to themselves. The engineer describes each section of the park. I recommend taking the train first to familiarize yourself with the different areas of the park. This year two electric trains will take visitors around the park. I can’t wait to take my turn!
You may get cold but there is a warm fire and hot chocolate is sold. Warm up in the General Store, the grist mill or the gift shop at the entrance to the park. Some nights Santa is also there to listen to everyone’s Christmas dreams. Even though the temperatures were hovering near freezing as we walked through, we didn’t want to leave until we saw every light.
Christmas at the Falls is a bargain. The price for Friday through Sunday is $10 and weekday admission is just $8.
Gadsden is within driving distance of much of Northwest Georgia, Southeast Tennessee and Northern Alabama. To soak up all of the Christmas spirit, make it a weekend. Gadsden is blessed with great places to stay for every budget. The campground is open for those with RVs. We stayed at one of the beautiful cabins but they appear to be booked this year.
Gadsden is full of Christmas cheer during the holiday season. We visited the Imagination Station’s “Let It Snow” exhibit. I really wanted to play in the snow, but then I remembered I am an adult.
Steve enjoyed taking a selfie in one of the many great spots for cool photos.
Gadsden is full of fun year-round. We go often to eat at their great restaurants and explore the sights along the Coosa River. You can spend an entire Saturday shopping through their adorable downtown. Learn more on the Greater Gadsden Area Tourism’s website.
