5 ways to celebrate in Birmingham

Christmas in July? It’s a polarizing concept, kind of like the annual arrival of pumpkin spice lattes.

Some enthusiastic people have already decked the halls, collected a bunch of gifts, listened to their favorite carols and put “It’s a Wonderful Life” at the top of the streaming charts. We’re guessing they’re feeling jolly and bright right now, beating the summer heat, thinking about snowflakes and Santa Claus. All well and good, or as Mr. Claus would say, “Ho, ho, ho!”

But what about people who have never celebrated Christmas in July? Maybe the idea makes them Grinchy — after all, it’s been over 90 degrees and steamy in Alabama this month — or maybe they’ve just never thought of it before.

And that’s where the enterprising elves at AL.com come in. As the temperatures rise and the temps heat up, we decided that getting a head start on the holidays can help everyone relax a bit. So we’ve put together a list (and checked it twice) of five ways to celebrate Christmas in July in the Birmingham metropolitan area.

Ice skating

Lace up a pair of skates and hit the ice at Pelham Civic Complex and Ice Arena, 500 Amphitheater Road in Pelham. “The Pelham Civic Complex’s two NHL-sized ice rinks and the Ice Arena host more than 27,000 ice skaters each year, from beginners to seasoned pros,” the complex’s website says. “We are home to the Birmingham Figure Skating Club and the Pelham Youth Hockey League and offer dedicated ice time for the ice skater, figure skater or hockey player. Pelham Skate School will sharpen skills and provide thrills for students as young as three. Group or private lessons are available. Did I mention it’s cold? At 55 degrees on the rink year-round, we are definitely the coolest place in town.” Admission is $10 for adults and children, plus $3 for skate rentals. There is no charge for spectators who do not plan to skate. See here the calendar of public skate sessions; call 205-620-6448 for more information.

Toy manufacturing

Pretend you’re one of Santa’s elves and create a custom stuffed animal. Toys are an important part of Christmas, and kids of all ages can customize a furry friend at Build-A-Bear Workshop in Hoover. It’s at Riverchase Galleria, 2000 Galleria Circle, first floor near Macy’s. Prices vary depending on the stuffed animal, and Build-A-Bear has a “pay your age” birthday offer for young visitors. Also, there’s no need to be ashamed if you don’t have a baby in your womb. More than 25 percent of Build-A-Bear customers are 12 years of age and older, according to a company press release. Call Build-A-Bear’s Hoover location at 205-733-8686 for more information. And if you’re in the mood for a side trip, Magic Milkshakes & More is close to the Galleria at 2801 John Hawkins Parkway. Their signature milkshakes – loaded with candy, cookies, marshmallows and other toppings – are reminiscent of extravagant holiday treats. Call 205-761-1008 for more information.

Christmas in July at a winery

Okay, so they won’t serve eggmog. But Cat-n-Bird Winery will serve Grinch mimosas at its Christmas in July event on July 27 at 11661 Old Highway 280 in Chelsea. The Shelby County boutique winery is planning a party from noon to 4 p.m., featuring a visit from Beach Santa, live music by Rob Thorworth, food from Blacktop Bistro and, of course, wine. (A look at the menu reveals three types of wine slushies that sound quite seasonal, and alcohol-free slushies for kids.) As a bonus, Cat-n-Bird will collect school supply donations to benefit local students and teachers . Call 205-610-9463 for more information.

Christmas in July Bar Crawl

Santa hats are optional, but where’s the fun in that? Wear it with pride at Travel BHAM’s Christmas in July Bar Crawl and Scavenger Hunt on 27th July. The taproom is Uproot Brewing Co., 2616 Third Ave. South of Birmingham. Two teams on the agenda that Saturday, leaving at 6pm and 7pm ‘Travel Bham’s scavenger hunt offers interactive ways to explore new bars, restaurants and historic sites in the city of Birmingham, all while using your smartphone yours,” the Eventbrite listing reads. . “On the day of the scavenger hunt, you will meet the group at the meeting point and receive details and instructions about the event.” Tickets are $15. Each scavenger hunt lasts 90 minutes and it’s good to have a vehicle while moving from place to place. Call Travel BHAM at 205-259-6418 for more information.

Christmas in July party

If a party store can’t make Christmas in July festive, who can? A Birthday Place, a party supply store in Pelham, is hosting a Holly-Jolly event on July 30, 5-7 p.m. The schedule includes a visit from Santa, food trucks, vendors, crafts and more. It’s all happening at 3186 D Pelham Parkway. Visitors are encouraged to bring non-perishable items to be donated to Life Church/Moore Prayer Life for the monthly food drive in Pelham. The food drive is organized in partnership with Pelham Strong, a nonprofit organization. Call A Birthday Place at 205-637-0010 for more information.