Forget the traditional blanket of snow! The metro Atlanta area cultivates its own special seasonal enchantment during the holidays. For those seeking festive cheer in the South, our state delivers. Throughout December, both inside the perimeter (ITP) and outside the perimeter (OTP), Georgia hosts a spectacular array of annual holiday activities and events.

Whether you are looking for an immersive experience or shopping for unique local gifts, the Atlanta area’s holiday offerings cover all bases:

Skate into the Holidays

Get ready to glide into the holiday season at the spectacular Avalon on Ice! Located in Alpharetta, this beloved OTP tradition channels the iconic energy of the Rockefeller Center ice rink. The expansive rink returns for the 2025-2026 season, running from November 23 through January 19, making it the perfect destination for creating lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner, this festive Atlanta winter activity offers a truly magical experience.

Tickets are $18 for general admission ($14 for children 12 & under), so be sure to reserve your skate time in advance on the Avalon website to guarantee your spot.

Please note that some dates have limited hours to reflect upcoming holidays.

Soar to new heights this season with a truly spectacular ITP experience at Ponce City Market’s Skate the Sky! Perched ten stories above the city, this breathtaking rooftop ice rink offers unmatched panoramic views of the Atlanta skyline. For the 2025-2026 season, the rink is back from November 28 through February 15.

Your all-access ticket ($30 for adults, $22 for children) includes skate rental, unlimited skating time and entrance to the carnival games and mini-golf at Skyline Park. For an extra cozy touch, you can also reserve a private, heated Igloo rink-side for a completely unforgettable experience with friends and family.

Let the Season Sparkle

Add a spectacular touch of magic to your season with the Garden Lights, Holiday Nights event at the Atlanta Botanical Garden! This beloved ITP tradition is back, transforming the 30-acre garden into a winter wonderland from November 15 through January 11. Visitors can wander along illuminated pathways and marvel at stunning installations, including the world’s largest choreographed curtain of sound and light, Nature’s Wonders. Don’t forget to capture a photo in the famous Tunnel of Light and check out the new, towering Enchanted Trees by Poetic Kinetics!

Visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden website to purchase your tickets today.

For a different kind of glow, experience the magic of nature at WildWoods: AGLOW, presented by Fernbank Museum! This multi-sensory experience illuminates the 75 acres of wooded trails with dramatic artistry, original soundscapes and dynamic light installations, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Running on select nights from November 14 through February 28, this unique Atlanta light display showcases the beauty of native flora and nocturnal wildlife. Your ticket even includes after-hours access to the museum’s exhibits and the cozy AGLOW Lounge with adult beverages available for purchase.

Note: Check the schedule for specific 21+ Fernbank After Dark dates.

Visit the Fernbank website to purchase tickets.

Stone Mountain Christmas is an immersive, family-friendly holiday event at Stone Mountain Park! Running from November 8 to January 4, this celebration features over two million dazzling lights, festive music and awe-inspiring holiday shows. Be sure to catch Santa and Mrs. Claus during the Christmas Parade and the Enchanted Tree Lighting Ceremony featuring “Santa’s Big Flight” during your visit!

Guests can also enjoy park attractions such as the enchanting Musical Frosted Forest, visit with Santa and the popular A Christmas Carol performance. Click here to purchase tickets.

Searching for indoor activities? The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Alliance Theatre each have packed calendars of events to add a bit of extra magic to your festivities.

Celebrate the Hanukkah Season

Across the metro area, Jewish organizations unite to light the menorah and commemorate community, tradition and family.

Beyond the Christmas festivities, add an inspiring and vibrant cultural event to your calendar. Join Chabad of North Fulton and Avalon for the annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony! Taking place on the Boulevard on the first night of the holiday, Sunday, December 14, from 5 to 6 p.m., this Alpharetta Hanukkah celebration is a heartwarming tradition. Gather to sing traditional songs, watch the lighting of the grand Menorah and enjoy delicious Hanukkah treats like traditional latkes and jelly donuts.

Shop Until You Drop

Immerse yourself in the authentic German winter spirit at the spectacular Atlanta Christkindl Market! For 2025, this beloved holiday market has made a highly anticipated move to the Lawrenceville Lawn (OTP). Running from November 28 through December 24, the market offers a delightful, free-entry array of traditional German treats, including savory brats, schnitzel and the essential holiday drink, warm Glühwein (mulled wine). Beyond the culinary delights, you can shop for handcrafted gifts, admire the towering 50-foot Ferris wheel and even take photos with Santa, making it a complete German-inspired Christmas experience.

Hours:

• Monday – Thursday: 3 to 8 p.m.
• Friday – Sunday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Refer to KnowAtlanta as your go-to guide to move, live and thrive in the intown and metro Atlanta area this holiday season! Click here to request your FREE copy of our magazine.  Click here to join our newsletter list!