Gulf Shores –
A bold New Year’s Day tradition where hundreds dash into the chilly Gulf waters before warming up at The Hangout. Participants receive commemorative swag, access to post-dip food and drink specials and live entertainment throughout the morning. It’s a fun, spirited way to kick off the new year on the beach with family, friends and fellow thrill-seekers.
www.thehangout.com
Piedmont-
Start the year off strong with this scenic race offering a 5K, 10K or Half Marathon through Piedmont. The courses are out-and-back routes, with multiple laps depending on distance. Runners can compete for finisher medals, best costume awards and series points. The event is family-friendly with all registration handled online via RunSignup.com as there is no on-site registration.
www.usroadrunning.com
Mobile –
Kick off the Mardi Gras season with this traditional celebration marking the start of Carnival. Local Mardi Gras clubs and revelers gather in festive costume, enjoy music and celebrate with the first parades and ceremonies of the season.
www.mobile.org
Huntsville –
North America’s largest interactive comedy murder mystery dinner theatre comes to our Rocket City. Solve a hilarious “true crime” mystery while enjoying a full plated dinner. The culprit hides in plain sight and you may become a prime suspect yourself. With actors hidden in the audience and no traditional costumes, this is a social, interactive and unforgettable evening for adults.
www.dinnerdetective.com
Birmingham –
Join the citywide tribute honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., with marching bands, community groups, floats and cultural celebrations lining downtown Birmingham. A meaningful, family‑friendly event that brings the community together in remembrance, hope and unity.
www.birminghamal.gov
Birmingham-
Step into a time warp of style and nostalgia at this epic indoor vintage festival. Shop iconic clothing and accessories from the 80s, 90s and Y2K, along with vintage records, toys, video games and home goods. Enjoy the Free-Play Vintage Arcade, explore the Rad Rewind Museum filled with retro relics and capture memories at nostalgic photo ops. General admission is $8 in advance, $12 at the door, $25 for Early Entry and kids 12 and under are free. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with Early Entry access at 8:30 a.m.
www.totallyradvf.com