Celebrating the holidays in the south can look a little different without snow flurries and freezing temperatures, but the metro area possesses plenty of seasonal magic. Atlanta’s ITP and OTP regions have endless annual festivities to ensure everyone has a December to remember.
Light Up the Season
An annual event that captures the hearts of citizens across the metro area, Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at Atlanta Botanical Garden is celebrating 12 years and is ready to add a little sparkle to your season. From November 12, 2022, to January 14, 2023, Atlanta Botanical Garden invites visitors to set their eyes on the city’s beloved holiday tradition. This year’s lineup highlights fan favorites as well as new installations, including the Anne Cox Chambers Garden by French artist Cédric LeBorgne, ORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN and three spectacular sculptures featured in the spring and summer exhibition.
Visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden website to reserve your tickets in advance today.
Returning for the first time in three years, The Peach Drop is back to help Atlantans welcome the new year! Located at Underground Atlanta, over 65,000 locals congregate to countdown the iconic Peach Drop and ring in the new year. Back and better than ever, Live Nation is partnering with the City of Atlanta to provide entertainment leading up to the final moments of 2022, as well as event production. Stay updated on the City of Atlanta website for more information leading up to the event.
Searching for indoor seasonal activities? The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Alliance Theatre each have a packed calendar of events to add a bit of extra magic to your holiday season.
Celebrate the Hanukkah Season
Several Jewish organizations across the metro Atlanta area are preparing to light the Menorah and celebrate a holiday filled with tradition, family and community.
Presented by 18Doors, Hanukkah in the Park invites all Atlanta-based Jewish persons to come together as a community to celebrate the first night of Hannukah on December 18 with loved ones. Register today to enjoy an in-person celebration, family-friend activities and sufganiyot – Jewish doughnuts!
Avalon is also celebrating the first night of Hanukkah on December 18 at 1 a.m. with a traditional Menorah Lighting Ceremony. In partnership with Chabad of North Fulton, guests are encouraged to partake in a night of tradition and special goodies!
Shop Until You Drop
This season also brings the magic of Atlanta Christmas markets! Inspired by German Christkindl markets, sample traditional German snacks such as brats, schnitzel, German Glühwein, gingerbread and more while shopping a wide selection of handcrafted goodies, including ornaments, beer steins, wood carvings, jewelry and more. Stop by Buckhead Village from November 25 to December 24 to partake in a centuries-old European tradition!
Hours: Monday – Thursday, Noon to 8:30 p.m.
Friday – Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Ponce City Market is also celebrating this magical season by hosting a holiday tree market! Find the perfect fresh tree, garlands, wreaths and more to adorn your new Atlanta home just in time for the big day. Offering delivery, pick up and installation, Tradition Trees is partnering with Ponce City Market from December 6 to December 18 to deliver fresh seasonal selections, wreath-making workshops and more to Atlanta residents. Sign up today by emailing customersupport@traditioncompany.com today.
Skate into the End of the Year
Inspired by the Rockefeller skating spectacular, Avalon on Ice is back with its monumental ice rink just in time for the holidays. Presented by Northside Hospital, lace up your skates and get ready to partake in this traditional pastime in one of metro Atlanta’s favorite attractions. Guests are encouraged to make a reservation to guarantee a time slot. Mark your calendars from November 21 to January 16 to brighten up your holidays with Avalon on Ice. Visit the Avalon website to reserve your spot.
*Please note that some dates have limited hours to reflect upcoming holidays.
After enjoying the brisk weather, stop by Santa’s Secret ‘Stache to experience the first Avalon immersive winter pop-up! Delight in themed cocktails and delectable bites from New York City-based Milk Bar and local bakeries to make this season the best one yet. All ages are welcome until 7 p.m. daily. After 7 p.m., only patrons 21 and over are welcome. Click here to make a reservation.
Stay updated on the latest activities in the metro area, new home communities, moving tips and more on the KNOWAtlanta homepage.
