A Season of Splendor and Celebration, Let the Magic Begin!
As winter’s glow descends upon Georgia and beyond, the season unveils a tapestry of luminous experiences designed to delight the senses. From glittering forest trails and timeless old fashioned Christmas villages to sophisticated soirées beneath shimmering lights, each event invites you to savor the art of celebration. Indulge in our own Roswell's European inspired festive markets, the wonder of immersive light displays, and the joy of traditions both new and old. This year, there’s no shortage of ways to make this season merry and bright. let elegance and enchantment be your guide as you explore the very best of the holidays—where every twinkle, every note of music, and every shared moment feels nothing short of magical.
Fernbank After Dark-Wildwoods: AGLOW ( select nights only )
Fernbank Museum of Natural History's nature themed outing includes glowing mushrooms, shimmery nocturnal animals and sparkling flora. At Fernabank’s After Wildwoods: AGLOW you can walk through a forest filled with dazzling holiday displays, festive music and stories of the forest. Admission also includes entry to Fernbank Museum and a viewing of “Flight of the Butterflies” on the giant screen.
https://fernbankmuseum.org/aglow
Dahlonega Old Fashioned Christmas
It’s been called one of the “Top 25 Hallmark Christmas Towns” and one of the “10 Best Small Towns to Visit at Christmas”. So, you know it will have all the elements you’ve been craving for Christmas magic. Experience Breakfast with Santa, Christmas teas, Christmas historic home tours, Christmas parades, a live Nativity scene and performances of “A Christmas Carol”, all with the backdrop of the most magically decorated town around. Shop for those last minute gifts around the town square and soak in the festive atmosphere!
https://dahlonegachristmas.com/about-us/
IllumiNights at the Zoo
More amazing photo opportunities await you at Illuminights at the Zoo. Bring the kids and their wide, eager eyes to enjoy hot chocolate and s’mores by the fire. Then, walk the mile-long path lit by the glow of hundreds of delicate silk lanterns, illuminating scenes and animals from nature from all around the world. Expect to see sights like a 100-foot dragon or a 23-foot tall jellyfish lit by LED lights that are stunning. Bring your selfie stick and some fun poses to what you will want to make an annual outing. https://zooatlanta.org/event/IllumiNights
World of Illumination-Candy Rush
Imagine an illuminated candy land, shimmering with lights and oozing holiday charm. Come to a world of giant sized Christmas confections, Gingerbread villages and iridescent sugar-plum fairies. At the World of Illumination-Candy Rush you will have the chance to experience the world’s largest drive-through audio-visual event. Holiday traditions can begin here as you make memories with friends and loved ones while snapping a cool selfie.
https://www.worldofillumination.com/
Callaway Gardens:Fantasy in Lights Powered by Georgia Power
Kick off the holiday season with a drive through one of the most magical experiences there is. Enjoy Fantasy in Lights, a Georgia holiday tradition as you glide along a seven-mile path within the comfort of your own auto. Explore 2,500 acres and experience the Callaway Christmas Village, a forty-foot Tree of Traditions Pixel Pine and Santa and friends as you pass through over 10 million twinkling lights.
https://www.callawaygardens.com/beach/events/fantasy-in-lights/
Stone Mountain Christmas
Another way to ring in the season is with a visit to Stone Mountain Christmas. Bring the gang to enjoy a sing-a-long train ride, a Christmas Parade, a Magical Christmas Drone Show, a walk among colorful lights and much, much more!
https://stonemountainpark.com/blog/guide-to-stone-mountain-christmas/
Dollywood (Pigeon Forge, TN):
Smoky Mountain Christmas presented by Humana transforms the park into a glowing winter wonderland with more than six million lights, including eight new mega trees debuting this year. Honored with Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Legend Award after winning “Best Christmas Event” a record 16 years in a row, the festival blends dazzling displays with world-class entertainment, from Broadway-style shows like Christmas in the Smokies to outdoor favorites including Appalachian Christmas and nightly fireworks in the Merry & Bright! finale. Families can ride the Dollywood Express through illuminated color zones, meet whimsical holiday characters, or discover Santa’s “Naughty or Nice” list. Culinary delights range from savory comfort foods to seasonal sweets like red velvet funnel cake.
https://www.dollywood.com/plan-your-visit/christmas/
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at Botanical Garden
Walk among millions of lights as you stroll through the natural illuminated beauty of the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Expect features such as a Tunnel of Light, nature inspired installations and paths leading to skyline views. Enjoy hot cocoa or your favorite cocktail while exploring the synchronized lights and holiday music.
https://atlantabg.org/plan-your-visit/atlanta-garden-calendar/garden-lights-holiday-nights/
Avalon on Ice -
Don’t miss this Rockefeller Center-inspired rink as it gets bedazzled for the holiday season. Lace up your rented skates or bring your own as you glide on the ice among the merriment brought by the sights and sounds of the season. Plan your visit to coincide with “The Lighting of Avalon” on November 23rd for a fun-filled evening!
https://experienceavalon.com/about
Roswell Christmas Tree Lighting
Join the entire town of Roswell as they commence at Heart Park in downtown Roswell for the Lighting of the Roswell Christmas Tree. Enjoy live performances, hot chocolate and free smores over the fire. Look for the big man himself as he travels down Canton Street to ring in the season!
Snow Day at Alpharetta City Center
Spend the day with Grandma and the cousins at this fun-filled outdoor event that includes yummy holiday treats, family activities and of course, SNOW! After, you can browse the area’s shopping and dining offerings to round out the perfect day.
https://www.awesomealpharetta.com/event/snow-day-at-acc/
Fairytale Village: North Point Mall
Stroll through a world where story book characters come alive and puppets tell tall tales all enwrapped in themed rooms and seasonal beauty. Get ready for arts, crafts and even a scavenger hunt with your crew. Great for elementary ages.
https://fairytalevillage.com/winter
Back to Nature Holiday Market-Chattahoochee Nature Center (December 6th only)
Shopping local can boost our community in profound ways and the Back to Nature Holiday Market brings the best handmade, sustainably responsible and eco-friendly gifts to you from local craftsmen and artisans. Purchase art, jewelry, nature-inspired gifts, candles, culinary confections along with many more items from over fifty vendors to round out your holiday shopping.
https://www.chattnaturecenter.org/special-events/holiday-market/