Kiddie Compass: A special holiday roundup of festivities in Baldwin County, Nov. 28-30 (and beyond)

By WHISPER EDWARDS
Editorial Assistant
whisper@gulfcoastmedia.com
Posted 11/26/25

This week, Kiddie Compass brings a special roundup of holiday events for families across Baldwin County.

From festive photo opportunities with Santa to holiday-themed train rides and interactive …

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Kiddie Compass: A special holiday roundup of festivities in Baldwin County, Nov. 28-30 (and beyond)

Posted

This week, Kiddie Compass brings a special roundup of holiday events for families across Baldwin County.

From festive photo opportunities with Santa to holiday-themed train rides and interactive craft stations, local attractions are offering events designed to create memorable moments for children and families.

Many of these events are free or low-cost, making it easy for families to enjoy holiday fun without stretching the wallet.

Here's a look at what's happening for kids across the county this week.

Know of any events or activities we've missed? Have an upcoming event to share? Email me at whisper@gulfcoastmedia.com.

ARCTIC EXPRESS AT WALES WEST RV RESORT & LIGHT RAILWAY

What: All aboard the Arctic Express at Wales West Light Railway. Guests will ride "Dame Ann," an authentic steam locomotive, through lights, decorations, Christmas music, and snow on the way to the North Pole. Each child receives a toy and a holiday family photo with Santa. Tickets include refreshments, mini train rides, a hay-less hayride, playgrounds, mini golf, and a bounce house. Guests can enjoy the potato cannon for a small fee. Food is available for purchase at the café and concessions stand. The gift shop offers items for train enthusiasts. Contact (251) 232-2322 or visit waleswest.com for more information.

When: Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 4-9 p.m. Nov. 28-Dec. 24; nightly beginning Dec. 12

Where: Wales West RV Resort & Light Railway, 13670 Smiley Street, Silverhill

Price: $25 per person, 2 and under free. Tickets available at the railroad or online at waleswest.com.

NORTH POLE AT DOWNTOWN OWA

What: Families can visit the North Pole in Downtown OWA for holiday activities and photos with Santa. Attractions include Reindeer Games, festive crafts in Gingerbread Lane, free face painting, the Gingerbread Bounce House, refreshments with hot cocoa and cookies, and the Journey to the North Pole train ride. One free photo is provided by Chriztberg Photography, with additional photos available for purchase. Personal photography is not permitted. On Dec. 14, guests can participate in Santa Paws to take pictures of pets with Santa.

When: Friday-Sunday, Nov. 28-30; Dec. 5-7, 12-14, 19, 21-23. Monday-Tuesday, Dec. 22-23 1-7 p.m.; Friday 6-9 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 1-7 p.m.

Where: Downtown OWA

Price: Free admission; photo packages available for purchase

PHOTOS WITH SANTA AT THE WHARF

What: Santa Claus will visit The Wharf every weekend through Christmas Eve, offering families the chance to take festive photos and hand-deliver wish list letters. Children can enjoy meeting Santa in his cozy village while the reindeer rest nearby. A variety of photo packages are available for purchase. Contact The Wharf Store for more information.

When: Now through Dec. 24; Friday 3-6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday noon-6 p.m.; special hours Dec. 22-23 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Dec. 24 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: The Wharf Store, Suite D118

Price: Various photo packages available