Top Holiday Events in Atlanta

In Atlanta, the holiday spirit comes alive in the most spectacular ways! As the air turns crisp and cool, dazzling displays of lights add to the razzle-dazzle of the South’s hottest city. Atlanta invites you to immerse yourself in the enchanting joy of the season. From festive parades to twinkling light displays, enter a winter wonderland filled with holiday cheer and merriment with these best holiday events in Atlanta.

Stone Mountain Christmas

Tickets: $39.99 adult/ $34.99 child plus tax

Dates: Select dates November 11-January 2

 As the sun gracefully dips below the horizon, Stone Mountain Park transforms into a holiday extravaganza. Millions of twinkling lights paint the night sky in festive hues. Picture yourself strolling through a magical landscape where each step is illuminated by the warm glow of holiday cheer. Be awed by the World’s Largest Christmas Light Show. This dazzling spectacle unfolds over 20 mesmerizing minutes, culminating in a crescendo of fireworks that paints the heavens with bursts of joy. As Santa’s sleigh gracefully glides over the Enchanted Tree Lighting Ceremony, the air becomes infused with the season’s magic. 

For those seeking a touch of nostalgia, catch a showing of Dickens’ timeless masterpiece, “A Christmas Carol.” Let the spirit of Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future weave a tale of redemption and warmth. Explore the Christmas Village, where festive delights abound, and witness the sky come alive with a mesmerizing Drone Show. Walk through the Musical Frosted Forest, where harmonies and Christmas tunes add a melodic touch to the air.

Stone Mountain Christmas goes beyond the ordinary with unique dining experiences. Share a meal with the man of the season at “Breakfast with Santa” or “Dinner with Santa,” where families can savor delicious moments while in the company of the jolly old elf himself. There’s much to do at Stone Mountain, which is why it’s not just a leading event in Atlanta, but a top holiday event in Georgia.

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights

Tickets: General Admissions starting at $35 child/$38 Adult

Dates: November 18- January 14

Step into a world of radiant splendor at Garden Lights, Holiday Nights, the crown jewel of Atlanta’s festive celebrations!

Every year, the already spectacular Atlanta Botanical Garden up the ante with millions of twinkling lights meticulously woven into enchanting scenes. Picture vibrant tunnels that change into a kaleidoscope of colors, majestic trees embraced in illumination, and whimsical light sculptures that spark the imagination. As you meander through the illuminated gardens, let the sounds of holiday music envelop you. The blend of lights and music creates an immersive experience that lingers in your heart long after the night ends.

Some scenes remain classic even with the ever-changing themes, like the mystical Orchestral Orbs, the whimsical White Rabbit, or the ethereal Cascading Ice Curtain. Each theme is a masterpiece, offering a unique visual symphony that captures the essence of the holidays in every flicker and glow. In the Edible Garden, roast s’mores, sip on velvety hot chocolate, and warm up amidst the holiday-themed enchantment. 

Entry to this luminous extravaganza is by timed tickets. Be sure to secure your spot early, as this magical journey is a sought-after experience that tends to sell out quickly.

The Nutcracker by the Atlanta Ballet 

Tickets: Starting at $87

Dates: Every Saturday until December 26

Don’t miss the performance of this Christmas classic story, The Nutcracker. The Atlanta Ballet production is larger than life, with falling snowflakes, spinning stars, and incredible visual details on the stage. It’s a combination of tradition and new technologies that brings the story to life in new ways.

 Before the performance, enjoy some hot chocolate or a holiday-themed cocktail in the Cobb Energy Center decorated lobby.

Miracle on Peachtree-Buckhead

Tickets: Free to walk; varies by special event

Dates: November 25-December 16

Embrace the season’s enchantment as Miracle on Peachtree returns for its fourth year, bringing a sleighful of new and festive family-friendly events to Buckhead! Whether you’re indulging in the art of Christmas tree decorating or exploring the charm of local shopping, every corner of Buckhead radiates with holiday magic. The daily street fair runs from noon to 7 pm, with special activities sprinkled during the festival. For example, help decorate wreaths for the Buckhead Fire Stations on December 2. 

Due to overwhelming demand, the 2023 Hot Chocolate Crawl expands the first two Saturdays in December. On December 2, from 4 pm to 7:00 pm, wander the festive streets of Buckhead Village District from stop to stop to taste special cocktails and hot chocolate. Get in the holiday spirit as you visit charming shops and restaurants, and enjoy holiday music along the route.

Other accompanying events include a tree-lighting ceremony and live holiday-themed performances. Visiting Buckhead is a must-do holiday event in Atlanta.

IllumiNights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival

Tickets: Starting at $20.99 adult/ $17.99 child for non-members

Dates: November 16-January 14, 5:30-9:30 pm

The Atlanta Zoo transforms into a mesmerizing Chinese Lantern Festival, glowing radiantly over this top city attraction. An array of Chinese lantern displays ranging in shape, size, and design paint a vivid picture of animals, plants, mythical creatures, and cultural symbols. Crafted from vibrant silk, delicate paper, and a medley of materials, each lantern is a masterpiece that adds a touch of magic to the night. From majestic animals to mythical creatures, each exhibit celebrates craftsmanship and tradition transcending time and borders.

While some animals may peacefully roam in their exhibits, not all will be out. But don’t worry, as the experience can extend to a holiday-themed VR experience in the 4D Theater. Immerse yourself in a virtual journey that complements the real-world magic of IllumiNights, creating a multisensory experience that sparks wonder and joy. This unique holiday event is one of the top in Georgia. 

Holiday in the Park

Tickets: $45 for one-day ticket

Dates: Select dates November 18-January 3

Deck the halls with thrills and cheer as Six Flags Over Georgia unveils the ultimate holiday extravaganza – Holiday In The Park®! With over one million dazzling LED lights, the adventure park becomes a sparkling holiday event in Atlanta. Every corner sparkles as each section is redressed with holiday themes, like Mistletoe Mansion and the Candlelight Carousel. 

No holiday celebration is complete without the man in the red suit! Ride on the North Pole Express and journey to Santa Claus’s merry workshop. Share your wish list, capture the magic in a photo, and revel in the enchantment of meeting Santa in person. Kids will love to play in the North Pole Playground. Warm up on chilly nights around the fire at S’mores Village as you battle to debate what makes a perfect s’more. For a truly special experience, rent a Blue Ridge VIP Igloo, complete with a family-style meal and sweet treats for up to six people.

Holidays at the Georgia Aquarium

Tickets: $48

Dates: November 10-January 1

Dive into the magic of the winter season at Georgia Aquarium, where Holidays at Georgia Aquarium transform its atrium into a festive underwater wonderland! The aquarium brings the spirit with festive music, winter-inspired projections, and the grandeur of a 40-foot live tree. 

Some cherished holiday traditions are back, like photos with Santa Claus. Witness the daily lighting of the majestic tree and be captivated by the special holiday-themed dolphin presentations. Venture into the Ocean Voyager built by The Home Depot, one of the world’s largest marine habitats, and see if you can spot Mr. Claus diving among the awe-inspiring whale sharks and graceful manta rays. It’s a unique holiday experience that brings a touch of whimsy under the waves.

Top Atlanta Holiday Shows

Besides the light festivals and Christmas market, Atlanta’s holiday season is packed with stellar entertainment and shows. For 2023, check out:

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at the Center for Puppetry Arts, a faithful re-creation of the Rankin and Bass Christmas classic. Performances run from November 8-December 31, and ticket prices vary by date. 

Charles Dicken’s classic A Christmas Carol on the Coca-Cola Stage of the Alliance Theater. Performances start November 26 and dazzle with incredible music and an all-star cast. 

The Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus, where the power of music and the magic of the season unite. The 43rd Annual Holiday Concert will fill the breathtaking Cathedral of St. Philip with resonant voices singing timeless classics to contemporary twists.

Skate the Station returns on November 17. Atlanta’s largest outdoor ice skating rink has theme nights, skate rentals, and season passes, and it’s all beside Atlantic Station. 

Christkindl German Market transports you to a European village where vendors sell themed wares and delicious German treats under the twinkling of holiday lights. The market runs from November 17-December 24, and admission is free! Now located in the Buckhead Village District. 

Holidays in Atlanta

Whether you skate under the stars at Atlantic Station, explore the aquatic wonders of Holidays at Georgia Aquarium, or revel in the classic charm of the AGMC Holiday Concert, Atlanta’s best holiday events make the season truly unforgettable. May the warmth of the season and the spirit of celebration surround you and your loved ones.