MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Montgomery Zoo will host a Zoo Volunteer Serve Day on Jan. 17, 2026, inviting volunteers to assist with improvement and preparation projects at the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum.

The event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 2301 Coliseum Parkway and is designed to support zoo operations and upcoming events. Zoo officials say volunteers play a vital role in the success of the Montgomery Zoo by helping improve programs, expand community involvement, and assist staff. The serve day brings volunteers together for one focused day of service benefiting the zoo and the River Region community. Organizers are seeking energetic individuals interested in volunteering in a fun, outdoor environment.

Planned tasks for the day include landscaping, trimming bushes, planting flowers, raking leaves, painting, and general preparation of zoo grounds. Serve times are available for a full-day shift from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., a morning shift from 9 a.m. to noon, or an afternoon shift from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Officials say the event allows volunteers to give back while helping prepare the zoo for future activities. The serve day is structured to accommodate different schedules and group sizes. All work will take place on zoo property.

“Zoo officials encourage early registration for those wishing to participate. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.”

Volunteers may include adults, teens, families, civic groups, school groups, church groups, businesses, and military squadrons. Volunteers ages 12 to 16 must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or designated chaperone, and anyone under 19 must have parental permission. Court-ordered community service will not be accepted.

Those interested can register by contacting the zoo at (334) 625-4905, emailing zooinfo@montgomeryal.gov, or registering online. Zoo officials encourage early registration for those wishing to participate.

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The YMCA of Montgomery says members of its Active Older Adults program recently attended a performance of Frozen.

The live action Broadway musical was performed at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival as part of an effort to keep older adults active, social, and engaged.

The group traveled together to the festival, where the performance served as the centerpiece of the outing.

“the day included smiles, meaningful conversations, and an experience members described as unforgettable”

YMCA officials said the day included smiles, meaningful conversations, and an experience members described as unforgettable.
The organization emphasized that creating opportunities for social connection and enjoyment is a core goal of the Active Older Adults program.

The YMCA encouraged others interested in similar activities to join the program and experience the Y firsthand. Billed as a way of “empowering older adults to live their best lives through fitness, social engagement, and support,” more program information can be found online: https://ymcamontgomery.org/programs/senior-programs/

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Montgomery will host multiple New Year’s Eve events on December 31, offering residents and visitors several ways to ring in the New Year across the city. Options range from a free, family-friendly downtown celebration to ticketed parties, live music events, dining experiences, and a riverboat cruise.

Organizers say the events are designed to accommodate different styles, schedules, and energy levels. Activities will take place at venues including Riverfront Park, downtown hotels, music clubs, restaurants, and along the Alabama River. Together, the events position Montgomery as an active destination to close out the year.

“FREE event features live entertainment, local food vendors, fireworks over the river, and a Biscuit lift at midnight”

One of the largest celebrations is the NYE 2026 Downtown Countdown at Riverfront Park, running from 10 p.m. to midnight. The free event features live entertainment, local food vendors, fireworks over the river, and a Biscuit lift at midnight.

At the Embassy Suites by Hilton Montgomery Hotel & Conference Center, the Tux & Chucks New Year’s Eve Celebration begins at 8 p.m. with live performances, a DJ, dancing, games, and a midnight champagne toast.

B.B. King’s Blues Club will host Countdown Kickback: Farewell 2025! at 9 p.m., offering live R&B music and a relaxed atmosphere. Each event targets a different audience, from families to partygoers seeking live entertainment.

Additional options include a New Year’s Eve Riverboat Cruise aboard the Harriott II Riverboat at 10 p.m., featuring live entertainment, dancing, food, and drinks across three decks.

Taste on Hempstead will offer a special New Year’s Eve dinner with seatings at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., with reservations required. Organizers encourage early planning, noting that tickets and reservations are limited for several events.

Together, the lineup highlights Montgomery’s mix of entertainment, dining, and riverfront experiences. All events take place on December 31 as the city welcomes the New Year.