Birmingham Public Library Holiday Happenings 2023
Happy holidays from the Birmingham Public Library (BPL)! Our libraries across the city are hosting programs celebrating community and the holidays for our annual Holiday Happenings.
We have 86 programs happening all throughout December, including some free-to-shop pop up stores and many celebrations! The Holiday Happenings 2023 booklet will be posted on our website soon. Keep reading to see what programs we're hosting!
Avondale Regional Branch Library | 509 40th Street S, Birmingham, AL 35222
All Ages Programs
Avondale's "Fancy" Family Feast
Friday, December 1–Friday, December 15 | During hours of operation
Share a family favorite recipe for a chance to win a free holiday ham! Submit your recipe along with your name and contact information and tell us a little about what makes this recipe special to you.
Submissions are due by Saturday, December 16, and may be emailed to FancyFamilyFeast@gmail.com or dropped off at the Avondale Library Circulation desk. The prize drawing will be held Monday, December 18, and the resulting collection of recipes will be shared with our patrons over the holidays!
Adult Programs
Club Create: Holiday Papercrafts Workshop
Wednesday, November 29 | 2:00 p.m.
Join us for Club Create, our weekly arts and crafts workshop for adults. We'll be crafting giant paper snowflakes, holiday cards, and paper ornaments.
Tiny Book of the Month
Friday, December 1–Saturday, December 30 | During hours of operation
If you've seen the books in the Avondale Fairy Library and wondered how to make them, this is the grab & go craft for you! Our Tiny Book of the Month for December is 'Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore. With our kit plus scissors and glue, you can craft your own fairy-sized copy of this Christmas classic. Kits available while supplies last.
Grab & Go for Grown-Ups: Holiday Colors Bracelets
Mondays, December 4, 11, 18 | During hours of operation
However you celebrate, we have a colorful craft for you! Each Monday we'll feature a bracelet kit in holiday colors: colors for Chanukah the 1st week, colors for Yuletide the 2nd week, and colors for Kwanzaa the 3rd week. Kits available while supplies last.
Club Create: Gingerbread House Workshop
Wednesday, December 6 | 2:00 p.m.
Join us for Club Create, our weekly arts and crafts workshop for adults. We'll be crafting mock gingerbread houses.
Club Create: Beaded Snowflake Ornaments
Wednesday, December 13 | 2:00 p.m.
Join us for Club Create, our weekly arts and crafts workshop for adults. We'll be crafting beaded snowflake ornaments.
Club Create: 3-D Wooden Ornaments
Wednesday, December 20 | 2:00 p.m.
Join us for Club Create, our weekly arts and crafts workshop for adults. We'll be crafting wooden 3-D Christmas tree ornaments.
Youth Programs
Gingerbread House Building
Tuesday, December 5 | 6:30 p.m.
Sugar and spice make Christmas so nice. Join us for a night of gingerbread house building and family fun. Limited space: registration required.
It's Storytime with Ms. Cas & Ms. Marie
Thursday, December 7 | 10:30 a.m.
Join us for a morning of action-packed preschool storytime fun. Groups are welcome but registration is required.
Make it Monday
Monday, December 11 | During hours of operation
Get crafty in the Avondale Youth Department with Make it Mondays. You may "take and make" or "stay and make." What will this month's craft be? Drop in and find out. Craft kits are available while supplies last.
Literary Elves on the Shelves
Friday, December 15–Friday, December 22 | During hours of operation
Oh no! Overnight some of our favorite book characters have leapt from their pages and are up to mischief inside the library. It's your job to find and identify the literary elves and add them to Santa's naughty list. Look high, look low, who knows where they might go!
Central Library | 2100 Park Place, Birmingham, AL 35203
All Ages Programs
Pat Snow: Selected Words & Images
Tuesday, November 28–Friday, January 26, 2024 | During hours of operation
East Building First Floor, Glass Display Cases
This new exhibition features recent works by local artist Pat Snow. Snow's text-infused art uses humor and narrative to invoke real-life stories interwoven with personal and art historical references. Through his ink drawings, color photographs, paintings, and screen prints, Snow questions how one remembers and constructs a personal history. His work has been exhibited around the country and is part of the collection at the Birmingham Museum of Art.
Pen and Paper Roleplaying Game Club
Saturday, December 2 | 12:00–4:00 p.m.
East Building Second Floor, Story Castle
If you like playing or want to try playing tabletop roleplaying games, then join us on the 1st Saturday of each month! The games we are currently running are Leverage: The Roleplaying Game and Beyond the Wall. All ages are welcome, and registration is not required. You do not have to bring any supplies but can bring your own dice or a notebook if you would like.
Winter Open House
Tuesday, December 12 | 5:00–7:00 p.m.
Stop by our Winter Open House for a break from the cold, and enjoy some snacks, crafts, a bouncy house, and pictures with Santa.
Adult Programs
Casual Consultations
Friday, December 8 | 6:00–7:00 p.m.
The Modern Green Book's Casual Consultations offers aspiring and established entrepreneurs alike the opportunity to gain insight from business owners and resources in a relaxed space. This last Casual Consultations is about retail and features keynote speaker Drew Jones, owner of Fly V Collection. Refreshments provided.
The Self-Care Mastermind: Water Works—Hydrate for Life
Monday, December 11 | 5:30–6:30 p.m.
The BPL is partnering with licensed massage therapist and certified health coach C.J. Wade to lead a program series that teaches patrons about different aspects of self-care. This program is focused on the importance of drinking water.
Getting the Most from Your Ancestry DNA Test
Wednesday, December 27 | 12:00 p.m.
Research Library Fourth Floor, Computer Center
Many people will receive DNA test kits as holiday gifts, but most of them will never experience the full array of features and benefits that come with their test results. Paul Boncella provides an overview of DNA testing basics, a guide to setting up your account for full access, a preview of what you can expect to find in the results, and suggestions on how you can optimize your DNA ancestry experience.
Only register if you would like to attend this program virtually via Zoom. You can register on the BPL's calendar entry.
Youth Programs
Word Up! City Wide Poetry Slam
Friday, December 8 | 5:00 p.m.
The Flourish Alabama collaborates with the BPL to present the 2023 Word Up! City Wide Poetry Slam! 12 school teams and 12 individuals from across Birmingham schools will compete for $5,000.00 in cash prizes. Semifinals start at 5:00 p.m. and finals start at 7:00 p.m.
East Ensley Branch Library | 900 14th Street Ensley, Birmingham, AL 35218
All Ages Programs
Holiday Movie Marathon
Tuesday, December 19 | 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Let's share the holiday spirit by having a non-stop holiday movie marathon. Popcorn will be provided!
Jingle Jam Karaoke
Thursday, December 21 | 3:00–5:00 p.m.
Stop by the East Ensley Library and grace us with your favorite holiday tune. Each participant will receive a gift. Light snacks will be served.
The Kwanzaa Tradition
Thursday, December 28 | 2:00 p.m.
Come learn about the tradition of Kwanzaa. You might decide to celebrate!
Five Points West Regional Branch Library | 4812 Avenue W, Birmingham, AL 35208
All Ages Programs
Inglenook Branch Library | 4100 40th Terrace N, Birmingham, AL 35217
All Ages Programs
Holiday Ornament Craft
Thursday, December 7 | 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Gather to craft an ornament and enjoy good conversation!
Movie Night
Thursday, December 21 | 4:00–5:30 p.m.
Stop by to watch a holiday family movie about a boy who's lost in New York City at Christmas! Popcorn provided.
Adult Programs
Holiday Ornament Craft
Thursday, December 7 | 10:00–11:00 a.m.
Gather to craft an ornament and enjoy good conversation!
Youth Programs
Story Time: Holiday Edition
Tuesdays, December 5, 12, and 19 | 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Join us for an afterschool holiday edition story time with crafts, songs, and snacks on Tuesdays in December.
North Avondale Branch Library | 501 43rd Street N, Birmingham, AL 35222
All Ages Programs
Holiday Party
Friday, December 15 | 3:00–5:00 p.m.
Join us for movies, karaoke, crafts, cookie decorating, & more!
North Birmingham Regional Branch Library | 2501 31st Avenue N, Birmingham, AL 35207
All Ages Programs
Holiday Open House
Tuesday, December 12 | 1:00–6:00 p.m.
Join us for our Holiday Open House. There will be snacks, music, crafts, hot chocolate, and a visit with Santa!
Powderly Branch Library | 3301 Jefferson Avenue SW, Birmingham, AL 35221
Adult Programs
Make It! String Christmas Ornaments
Thursday, December 7 | 11:30 a.m.
Come and make your own holiday decorative Christmas string ornament for the holiday season. Please call 205-925-6178 or sign up the BPL's calendar entry to save your seat.
Make It! DIY Snowy Mason Jars
Tuesday, December 12 | 11:30 a.m.
You will be able to create your own snowy wonderland in a mason jar! Please call 205-925-6178 or sign up on the BPL' calendar entry to save your seat.
Youth Programs
Wiggle Storytime with Seasonal Craft
Tuesday, December 5 | 10:00 a.m.
Join us for some great seasonal stories, dancing, and a fun craft! This is a preschool storytime. This is intended for ages 3 to 5 years old or children in preschool and daycare.
Make It! Olaf
Tuesday, December 19 | 3:00 p.m.
Calling all fans of Frozen to come and make your own Olaf. This craft is for school age kids in elementary and middle school. Please call 205-925-6178 or sign up on the BPL's calendar entry to save your seat. This program is intended ages 6 to 13 years old.
Pratt City Branch Library | 509 Dugan Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35214
All Ages Programs
Deck The Library
Friday, December 1–Friday, December 22 | During hours of operation
Come help us decorate our tree with ornaments you decorate yourself.
The Pratt City Six Neighborhood Associations Annual Christmas Festival
Saturday, December 9 | 2:00–6:00 p.m.
One Pratt Park | 601 Dugan Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35214
Enjoy activities for all ages, a DJ, refreshments, and finish the evening with the lighting of the community Christmas tree.
Adult Programs
Share, Show, See
Friday, December 1 | 1:00 p.m.
Come enjoy a butter demonstration and make your own while we share our interesting stories and photos.
All supplies are provided, and registration is required. Call 205-791-4997 for more information.
Art & Appetizers
Tuesday, December 5 | 1:00 p.m.
Come decoupage a tray and enjoy some appetizers.
All supplies are provided, and registration is required. Call 205-791-4997 for more information.
Holiday Canvas Art
Tuesday, December 12 | 1:00 p.m.
Come enjoy and guided painting session.
All supplies are provided, and registration is required. Call 205-791-4997 for more information.
Gingerbread Building Buddies
Tuesday, December 12 | 2:30 p.m.
Come build with gingerbread and enjoy time together.
All supplies are provided, and registration is required. Call 205-791-4997 for more information.
Stop, Drop, and Breathe
Thursday, December 28 | 10:00 a.m.
A meditation and breathing program designed to give you time in the week to relax.
Youth Programs
Rock Painting Holiday Hangout
Thursday, December 7 | 4:00 p.m.
Come play a game, paint rocks, and hang out.
All supplies are provided, and registration is required. Call 205-791-4997 for more information.
Smithfield Branch Library | 1 8th Avenue W, Birmingham, AL 35204
All Ages Programs
Between the Lines
Mondays, December 4, 11, and 18 | 3:30–5:00 p.m.
Let your creativity flow as you color "Between the Lines" on an array of coloring sheets! Come join us for coloring and artistic fun for all ages.
Movie Mania Christmas
Wednesdays, December 6, 13, and 20 | 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Lights! Camera! Action! at the Smithfield Library! Feast your eyes on this movie classic.
Toys For Tots
Monday, December 18 | 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Dashing through the snow in a one-horse open sleigh! Delivering toys for tots to Smithfield Library all day.
You can drop off your unwrapped gift at our location and donate to ensure less fortunate kids receive their Christmas wish! Distribution is Tuesday, December 19. Registration is required. You can register by filling out the form at our library or calling 205-324-8428.
Free to Shop Mobile Store
Wednesday, December 20 | 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Spread holiday cheer as Be Kind Birmingham offers a free-to-shop mobile store for all ages to enjoy!
Adult Programs
Off the Hook
Tuesdays, December 5 and 19 | 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Let your crochet creativity flow with yarns that will make you want to dye! I promise this class will be "Off the Hook!" Come join us for a fun-filled crochet event.
Teen Programs
Chill Mode
Fridays, December 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 | 3:30–5:00 p.m.
You think you got what it takes to win? "Game On!" Come join us for a variety of exciting games, guaranteed fun, and laughs!
Anime-nia
Thursdays, December 7, 14, 21, and 28 | 3:30–5:00 p.m.
It's time for anime-nia where we watch anime old and new. Bring your tasty snacks and join us at Smithfield Library!
Southside Branch Library | 1814 11th Avenue S, Birmingham, AL 35205
All Ages Programs
Grab N' Go Dreidel Garland
Monday, December 4–Friday, December 8 | During hours of operation
Make a decorative dreidel garland together as a family to celebrate Chanukah.
Gnome Ornament
Monday, December 11–Friday, December 15 | During hours of operation
This Gnome Ornament is a fun arts and crafts activity, which allows families and friends to come together and create a whimsical holiday ornament.
DIY Kwanzaa Memory Game
Monday, December 18–Friday, December 22 | During hours of operation
Families can make their own Kwanzaa Memory Game to play together or with friends and learn about Kwanzaa and the meaning of the symbols and principles.
Springville Road Regional Branch Library | 1224 Springville Road, Birmingham, AL 35215
All Ages Programs
Springville Road Open House
Tuesday, December 12 | 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
Come by the Springville Road Branch Library as we celebrate the holidays with crafts and light refreshments.
Adult Programs
Crafts, Conversation, and Community: Gingerbread Houses
Monday, December 4 | 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Gather to learn how to make a craft and enjoy good conversation!
Sewing: Holiday Stockings
Friday, December 15 | 9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Each sewing session will have a simple project that will teach different types of sewing skills. All materials provided.
Youth Programs
Family Fun Night: Gingerbread EditionTuesday, December 12 | 5:00–7:00 p.m.
Calling all families and gingerbread lovers! We will be celebrating all things gingerbread. We will tell a few gingerbread stories, play some gingerbread games, make an ornament, and decorate gingerbread cookies!
Interactive Holiday Movie
Tuesday, December 19 | 4:00 p.m.
Watching films are so much fun and with this film you can't go wrong...You get to watch AND interact AND play along! What happens when an elf leaves the North Pole to live in the land of New York. Come and find out!
All supplies are provided—we have everything you'll need. Grab your folks and join us and you'll have fun indeed! Call 205-226-4085 for movie details and more information!
Classic Holiday Movie
Friday, December 22 | 10:00 a.m.
Join us for a classic holiday movie! We promise fun and no scares!
Board Games
Wednesday, December 27 | 10:00 a.m.
We have board games you can play or if you want to test out your board game, come and join us!
Titusville Branch Library | 2 6th Avenue SW, Birmingham, AL 35211
Mixed Ages Programs
Grab and Go Hot Chocolate Bar
Friday, December 1–Thursday, December 7 | During hours of operation
Come to the Titusville Branch Library and visit our hot chocolate bar! Grab yourself some hot chocolate to make at home.
Make Your Own Ugly Sweater
Fridays, December 1 and 8 | 10:00–11:00 a.m., 3:30–4:30 p.m.
Please stop by Titusville Branch Library with your plain old sweater or shirt, or you will have the chance to design your very own ugly sweater! Embellishments to make your design outstanding will be provided.
Exchange Club Education
Tuesdays, December 5, 12, 19 | 10:00–11:00 a.m.
Join us at Titusville Branch Library as we collaborate with the Exchange Club of Alabama to educate, motivate, and support parents who come in for our Diaper Resource Day.
Safety Tips with SAFE Kids Alabama
Tuesday, December 5 | 10:00–11:00 a.m.
Join us at the Titusville Branch Library as we collaborate with SAFE Kids Alabama at Children's of Alabama for safety tips and incentives on our Diaper Resource Day.
Coffee with a Cop
Wednesday, December 6 | 9:00–10:00 a.m.
Stop by your favorite library for Titusville Branch Library's Coffee with a Cop. Come share a cup of coffee and a donut to discuss issues or ask questions concerning subjects that matter.
Titusville Branch Community Resource Day
Thursday, December 7 | 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Participants will enjoy interacting with vendors who will provide information and resources such as medical consultations, food distribution, utility assistance, and other essential services for patrons. This program is intended for teens, adults, and seniors.
Twas a Murder Mystery
Wednesday, December 13 | 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Come to the Titusville Branch Library to solve a murder mystery and have some fun while doing so!
Christmas Movie Marathon
Wednesday, December 20–Thursday, December 21 | 3:00–5:00 p.m.
This December, join us at the Titusville Branch Library for a Christmas movie marathon!
Adult Book Club
Wednesday, December 13 | 1:30–2:30 p.m.
Come to Titusville Library every second Wednesday of the month to catch up on your favorite reads! This program is intended for teens and adults.
Adult Programs
Titusville Branch Diaper Resource Day
Tuesday, December 5 | 10:00–11:00 a.m.
During Titusville Branch Diaper Resource Day, patrons in the community will be provided with free diapers and wipes.
Titusville Library Senior Resource Day
Wednesday, December 6 | 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Senior participants will enjoy interacting with vendors who will provide information and resources such as medical consultations, food distribution, utilities assistance, and other essential services for patrons.
Golden Conversations Book Club
Wednesday, December 13 | 1:00–2:00 p.m.
Come to the Titusville Branch Library to have long and thoughtful discussions about monthly readings! This program is intended for seniors.
Titusville Branch Holiday Party
Friday, December 15 | 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Want to experience some holiday cheer? Then please stop by Titusville Branch Library to attend our holiday party! This program is intended for seniors.
Youth Programs
DIY Christmas Countdown CalendarTuesday, December 5 | 3:30–4:30 p.m.
Let's make a calendar to count down the days till Christmas!
Let's Make Snowflakes
Tuesday, December 12 | 3:30–4:30 p.m.
Make snowflakes with the Titusville Branch Library!
DIY Christmas Cards
Tuesday, December 19 | 3:30–4:30 p.m.
With Christmas drawing near, let's make Christmas cards for those we hold dear!
West End Branch Library | 1348 Tuscaloosa Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35211
All Ages Programs
Christmas Ornament Craft
Friday, December 1, 3:00 p.m.; Monday, December 4 |10:30 a.m.
Make a Christmas ornament and help decorate the library Christmas tree.
West End Christmas Spectacular
Tuesday, December 12 | 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Enjoy a catered meal and an entertaining holiday program.
Be Kind Birmingham Free-to-Shop Pop-Up Store
Wednesday, December 13 | 10:00–11:30 a.m.
Shop for free at Be Kind's Pop-Up Store.
Patron Appreciation Duck Pond
Monday, December 18 | During hours of operation
Stop by the library and pick a rubber ducky from the duck pond. The number on the bottom of the duck will let you know what prize you will receive.
Friday Movie Matinee
Friday, December 22 | 3:30 p.m.
Enjoy a holiday movie and a snack.
Adult Programs
Holiday RecipesFriday, December 1–Saturday, December 30 | During hours of operation
Take a recipe each week and try it at home. You might learn a new cooking skill with each one you try.
Talk with a Doc
Wednesday, December 6 | 11:00 a.m.
Learn about a current health topic from a Cahaba Medical Care doctor.
Youth Programs
Candy Scavenger HuntMonday, December 4–Friday, December 22 | During hours of operations
Find candy cut-outs throughout the stacks. When you find them all, you can get a prize at the desk.
Woodlawn Branch Library | 5709 1st Avenue N, Birmingham, AL 35212
Adult Programs
Youth Programs
Student Exposure Initiative: Business & Career Strategies for Students
Wednesday, December 6 | 4:00–5:00 p.m.
At this program for middle and high school students, a panel of local business professionals led by James Matthews will expose students to business and career concepts and provide practical training to set young people up for success as they prepare to begin their careers.
Ornament Painting for Kids
Tuesday, December 12 | 3:30 p.m.
Paint your very own Christmas tree ornament to take home with you! Available while supplies last.
Wylam Branch Library | 4300 7th Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35224
Adult Programs
Adult Holiday Craft
Friday, December 1 | 10:00 a.m.
Create a holiday snowman with us!
Book Club
Wednesday, December 13 | 10:00 a.m.
Join our book club to discuss your favorite books of the year. Join us in Christmas fun, games and activities.
Youth Programs
After School Holiday Craft
Tuesday, December 12 | 3:30 p.m.
Join us after school to create a reindeer gift bag.
Follow the Birmingham Public Library on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to find more updates like these.
Check out our online calendar to see what other programs we have going on. All of our programs are free and open to the public!
By Cheyenne Trujillo | Library Assistant Ⅲ, Public Relations Department
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