Instead of staying home for the holidays, many friends and families say a vacation getaway during the season is a perfect way to experience gratitude, joy and magic while creating lifetime memories. The Southeast is full of driving-distance destinations that are legendary for their holiday vibes, lavish or quirky décor, family-friendly events and warm hospitality.
One such destination is Alpine Helen-White County, Georgia.
Have a Bavarian Christmas without leaving the Southeast in Alpine Helen, Georgia, about an hour and a half north of Atlanta in the northeast Georgia mountains. The town’s alpine architecture and festive holiday décor, with cobblestone alleyways and buildings laced in elaborate trim, are so delightful that Lifetime Films’ Christmas movies “Christmas Love Letter” and “A Taste of Christmas” were filmed there.
The Village in Edelweiss River Park is decorated with 8,000 lights and 800-plus ornaments, and the 20-foot tall tree and the entire town are dressed up and illuminated every night until Feb. 20. Visitors from all over flock to Alpine Helen to see the festive shop windows and streets, savor authentic German beer and cuisine and buy German Christmas tree ornaments.
The town's 14th annual Christkindlmarkt at the Marktplatz will continue Dec. 3-4. This traditional German event offers everything from unique gifts and decorations to an assortment of savory and sweet foods, drinks and candied treats.
Join in a Victorian Christmas in the historic settlements of Sautee-Nacoochee at two events. At the Hardman Farm State Historic Site see the manor dressed in period holiday décor while learning about traditions from docents in their finest 1870s garb. This open house takes place Dec. 2-17, on Fridays and Saturdays from 4-7 p.m. and is highlighted by twinkling candlelight and live music. The Sautee-Nacoochee Cultural Center hosts its Victorian Christmas Dec. 3-10, with carriage rides, carolers, dining and shopping in unique original cabins.
Learn more about this holiday destination at helenga.org.
