Experience Decatur’s Newest Holiday Tradition: The Merry Mile
Emma Martin • November 24, 2025
Did you know that Decatur offers a mile a Christmas magic and memories? Check out the Merry Mile!
If you’re looking for the perfect way to make merry memories this holiday season, Downtown Decatur’s Merry Mile has you covered! Spanning exactly one mile from the top of 2nd Avenue to the end of Bank Street, this festive stretch is packed with seasonal cheer for the whole family.
Stroll along the Merry Mile and enjoy the upcoming Christmas market at the Farmers Market on Dec. 6th , holiday shopping at local shops, the grand city tree at the ACA, and the Tree Trail at Founders Park on Bank Street Beginning Thanksgiving Day thru the New Year. With activities happening all month long, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the season. Each year, the City of Decatur plans brand new additions to continue growing the Merry Mile experience—and this year’s is one you won’t want to miss.
Introducing Jingle Boats in Decatur, AL! Located at the corner of Lee Street and 1st Avenue, Jingle Boats is a dazzling holiday light attraction and a highlight of the Merry Mile and Christmas Downtown festivities. Glide on Glice surrounded by festive lights and holiday music—it’s a truly unique way to celebrate the season.
Jingle Boats Details:
- Location: Corner of Lee Street and 1st Avenue, Downtown Decatur
- Hours:
- Thursday–Friday: 4–9 p.m.
- Saturday–Sunday: 12–9 p.m.
- Black Friday: 12–9 p.m.
- Tickets: Start at $8; group discounts are available. Tickets must be purchased at the gate with a card.
Whether you’re shopping, exploring the light displays, or enjoying time with family and friends, the Merry Mile is your destination for holiday fun in Decatur. Don’t miss this year’s new Jingle Boats experience—it’s a magical addition to a mile full of memories!
There’s something undeniably special about Christmas in a small town. The streets come alive with twinkling lights, the sound of cheerful carols fills the air, and the community gathers together to celebrate the magic of the season. Few traditions capture that feeling quite like a Christmas parade. Across Morgan County, our towns roll out the holiday spirit with beloved parades featuring brightly decorated floats, festive music, and of course—a visit from Santa Claus himself. These annual celebrations mark the start of the holiday season, spreading joy and togetherness to all who attend. Here’s a look at this year’s lineup of Christmas parades throughout Morgan County: Trinity Christmas Parade Saturday, December 6th at 10:00 AM Start your day with holiday spirit as the Trinity community lines the streets for a morning of fun, family, and festive floats. Priceville’s Annual Shelia Smith Christmas Parade Saturday, December 6th at 3:00 PM Presented by the City of Priceville Parks and Recreation Department, this cherished tradition honors the late Shelia Smith and her legacy of community pride. Eva Christmas Parade Saturday, December 8th at 7:00 PM Bundle up and enjoy the twinkle of lights at night as Eva’s Christmas parade rolls through town—an event that always delights both kids and adults. Decatur’s “Lights, Camera, Christmas” Parade Monday, December 8th at 6:00 PM Hosted by the Young Professionals of Decatur, this year’s theme brings the magic of the movies to life! Expect creative floats, bright lights, and plenty of cinematic holiday flair. Falkville Christmas Parade Tuesday, December 9th at 3:00 PM This afternoon parade is packed with small-town charm, classic cars, and festive community spirit. Hartselle Christmas Parade Thursday, December 11th at 7:00 PM Presented by the Kiwanis Club of Hartselle, this beloved parade is one of the county’s largest, drawing visitors from near and far to celebrate under the glow of holiday lights. From morning marches to sparkling evening parades, each celebration showcases the heart and hospitality of Morgan County. Gather your family, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and make your way to one—or all—of these festive parades. There’s no better way to kick off the holiday season than right here at home.
Looking to make spooky memories this fall? Check out all the ways to celebrate the season throughout Decatur-Morgan County!
Big news for country music fans: Rock the South, one of the South’s most beloved music festivals, is making a major move. Beginning in 2026 , the three-day summer tradition will take place at its brand-new, permanent home— The Fields at Decatur —from June 11–13, 2026 . For more than 14 years, Rock the South has grown into a can’t-miss event, drawing fans from across the region to celebrate music, community, and Southern culture. Now, with its move to Decatur (just south of Huntsville and an hour from Birmingham), the festival is stepping into a bold new chapter. This relocation marks the first time Peachtree Entertainment—the team behind Rock the South—will fully own its festival grounds. That means long-term investments to enhance comfort, convenience, and fan experiences for years to come. The new site promises: 150+ acres of usable space for easy flow and bigger crowds. Expanded campgrounds with engineered drainage, designed to keep the fun going rain or shine. More shade and cooling zones to beat the Alabama heat. A reimagined VIP area plus new fan hangout spaces. A second stage presented by Raised Rowdy , doubling the music and energy. Nathan Baugh, CEO of Peachtree Entertainment, summed it up: “Rock the South has always been about more than music; it’s about tradition, community, and celebrating the South at its best. The Fields at Decatur gives us the space to do it right—and to make even bigger moments than ever before.”
Ninety-nine of the nation’s top high school anglers gathered in Decatur!
Counting down to the #1 spot, here’s what you don’t want to miss this month:
Decatur is about to trade its quiet hum for the roar of engines as the Driven To Give Auto & Bike Show takes over the brand-new Morgan County/Decatur Farmers Market on Saturday, September 27, from 3:00–7:00 PM. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Decatur Daybreak in partnership with The Decatur-Morgan County Farmers Market and presented by Lynn Layton Chevrolet, this high-octane gathering isn’t just for car and bike lovers — it’s for anyone who enjoys live music, good food, and giving back to the community.
No matter what type of food sounds good to you, Decatur has good restaurants that fall under every single category! Here is a guide to the most popular menu items at the best restaurants in Decatur!
The Princess Theatre has two live productions coming up in the month of July that you do not want to miss!
You've heard of Third Friday, but have you heard of this brand-new downtown Decatur social gathering? Here's a list of the things that Second on 2nd offers!
Decatur, Alabama, is gearing up for a vibrant and meaningful Juneteenth celebration this year, honoring the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and recognizing the enduring struggle for equality. This important holiday, Juneteenth, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Texas on June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of slavery. This was nearly two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. Black Texans began celebrating the day in 1866, and it has evolved into a widely observed holiday. The Juneteenth holiday is a day for reflection, education, and community celebration. Want to celebrate Juneteenth? Morgan County has a weekend packed with events that celebrate Black history, culture, and achievement! Check out these events... Saturday, June 14th: A Day of Unity and Celebration Morgan County NAACP Juneteenth Parade From Downtown Decatur to A.C. Banks Park 9 AM - 2 PM Kick off the Juneteenth festivities with the annual Morgan County NAACP Parade! This celebratory procession will wind its way from downtown Decatur, culminating at A.C. Banks Park. Join us as we march in unity, showcasing community spirit, honoring our heritage, and looking towards a future of continued progress. Bring your chairs, find a good spot, and cheer on the participants!
