Christmas Events That Bring Big Holiday Cheer To Atlanta And Nearby Areas

Atlanta and its surrounding areas light up during the holidays – literally.

Between dazzling light displays, pop-up markets, festive concerts, and family-friendly events, there’s no shortage of places where holiday cheer feels just a smile or a ticket away.

Here are some standout seasonal experiences that bring a warm glow to Atlanta and nearby communities!

1. Garden Lights, Holiday Nights

Imagine walking through a tunnel made entirely of twinkling lights while orchids glow like they’ve been dipped in stardust.

That’s what happens when the Atlanta Botanical Garden goes full holiday mode!

Running from mid-November through early January, this event features millions of LEDs creating immersive installations that’ll make your jaw drop.

Families love strolling through illuminated pathways while sipping hot cocoa.

2. Stone Mountain Christmas

Over two million lights transform Stone Mountain Park into a holiday spectacle that rivals the North Pole itself.

From November through early January, visitors can enjoy festive music, dazzling light displays, and shows that’ll have you humming carols all the way home.

The Crossroads area becomes a winter village complete with seasonal treats and shopping.

Kids go absolutely bonkers for the nightly snowfall!

3. IllumiNights at the Zoo

Who knew zoo animals could glow like they’ve been plugged into an outlet?

IllumiNights runs from late November to mid-January, featuring massive lantern sculptures of creatures alongside illuminated trails.

Walking through this event feels like stepping into a fantasy world where pandas shine brighter than your future.

The combination of wildlife and winter lights creates an experience unlike any other holiday attraction.

4. Avalon Holiday Events

Alpharetta’s Avalon becomes a holiday destination with events running throughout the season.

From tree lighting ceremonies to visits with Santa, there’s always something happening on the calendar.

The outdoor layout means you can stroll between shops while enjoying festive decorations and seasonal music.

Families love the mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment all in one place.

Free events make it budget-friendly, which is clutch during expensive holiday season!

5. Atlanta Christkindl Market

Craving authentic German holiday traditions without the transatlantic flight?

Head to Lawrenceville between late November and Christmas Eve for this charming market!

Vendors sell handcrafted ornaments, European treats, and unique gifts you won’t find at the mall.

Live entertainment keeps the atmosphere lively while you browse.

Bonus: The food here is absolutely incredible, from bratwurst to freshly baked strudel that’ll make your taste buds dance.

6. The Battery Atlanta Holidays

Right next to Truist Park, The Battery Atlanta becomes holiday central with twinkling lights, seasonal entertainment, and festive vibes everywhere you look.

Free events pop up throughout December, including live performances and photo opportunities with Santa.

Restaurants and shops get decked out in their holiday finest, making it perfect for dinner and a stroll.

If you’re already a Braves fan, you’ll love seeing your favorite spot all dressed up!

7. Helen’s Christkindlmarkt

Helen already looks like a Bavarian village, so adding Christmas decorations basically turns it into a real-life snow globe.

The Christkindlmarkt features German traditions, crafts, and foods that transport you straight to Europe.

Strolling through the Alpine-style streets while holiday lights reflect off the Chattahoochee River is genuinely breathtaking.

Weekends fill up fast, so plan accordingly!

Consider staying overnight to fully experience this mountain town’s holiday transformation.

8. Glow Light Show (Coolray Field)

Coolray Field trades baseball bats for Christmas lights during this spectacular drive-through experience.

Your car becomes a cozy viewing pod as synchronized lights dance to holiday music across the stadium.

It’s basically a concert for your eyeballs, and you don’t even have to leave your heated seats!

Families appreciate staying warm while still getting their festive fix.

However, be prepared for lines on peak nights – it’s that popular.

9. Lake Lanier Lakeside Lights

Drive along the shores of Lake Lanier while millions of lights create magical scenes on both sides of your car.

This drive-through experience lets you stay cozy while soaking in elaborate light displays.

Themes change throughout the route, keeping things interesting from start to finish.

Pop on your favorite holiday playlist and cruise slowly through this winter wonderland.

It’s become a beloved tradition for families across North Georgia!

10. Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens

Though it’s a bit of a drive from Atlanta, Callaway Gardens delivers one of the Southeast’s most famous light displays.

Miles of illuminated trails wind through the property, showcasing millions of twinkling bulbs in creative scenes.

You can drive through slowly while holiday tunes play on your radio.

The nativity scene alone is worth the trip!

11. Ponce City Market Rooftop Skating

Ice skating with Atlanta skyline views is basically the definition of holiday goals.

Ponce City Market’s rooftop transforms into a winter wonderland complete with a real ice rink.

Whether you’re a skating pro or spend more time on your backside than your blades, it’s ridiculously fun.

The surrounding shops and restaurants mean you can make an entire day of it.

Just saying, post-skate hot chocolate tastes even better!

12. Georgia Festival of Trees

Designers go absolutely wild decorating trees for this annual fundraiser that benefits Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

Each tree tells a unique story through ornaments, lights, and creative themes ranging from whimsical to elegant.

Voting for your favorite adds an interactive element that kids especially enjoy.

Beyond the trees, there’s holiday shopping and special events throughout the festival.

Your attendance literally helps sick children, so you’ll leave feeling warm and fuzzy inside!

13. Marietta Square Christmas Events

Historic Marietta Square delivers small-town charm with big holiday energy.

The iconic gazebo gets wrapped in lights while the surrounding square hosts parades, tree lightings, and special events.

Local shops stay open late with holiday specials, and restaurants offer seasonal menus.

Walking through feels like time-traveling to a simpler, cozier era.

If you’re tired of mega-events, this intimate celebration will restore your holiday spirit beautifully.

14. Virginia-Highland Winterfest

This beloved Atlanta neighborhood throws a street party that feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie.

Local vendors set up booths selling handmade goods while live music fills the air.

Kids can meet Santa, and adults can browse unique gifts from local artisans.

The community vibe here is unbeatable – everyone’s smiling, chatting, and spreading cheer.

Grab some hot cider and enjoy the quintessential neighborhood holiday celebration!

15. Dahlonega Old-Fashioned Christmas

Dahlonega goes full Dickens-novel during its Old-Fashioned Christmas celebration.

The historic gold rush town decorates its charming downtown with vintage-style ornaments and twinkling lights.

Special events include caroling, holiday shopping, and visits from Santa himself.

Local wineries and restaurants offer seasonal specials that complement the festive atmosphere.

The mountain setting adds extra magic, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch some snow!