The Ultimate 2026 Atlanta Christmas Guide: Lights, Events & Holiday Fun
There’s something special about Christmas in Georgia. From walking through Christmas light displays to browsing festive markets and sipping hot chocolate, there are so many ways to get into the holiday spirit around Atlanta. Whether you want to plan a fun Christmas date, spend time with family, or simply enjoy the magic of the season, here are some of the best Christmas activities to add to your holiday bucket list!
Visit a Christmas Market
Atlanta Christkindl Market
You don’t have to travel all the way to Germany to experience the magic of a traditional Christmas market! The Christkindl Market is a fun way to get into the holiday spirit right here in the Metro Atlanta area.
You can browse stalls filled with unique gifts from local artisans, enjoy traditional German foods like bratwurst and pretzels, and soak up the festive atmosphere. Be sure to leave room for a sweet treat while you explore! The market is a great place to shop for Christmas gifts or spend an afternoon enjoying the holiday festivities.
For 2026, the Christkindl Market will have two locations: Lawrenceville and Senonia. The Lawrenceville location opens on Friday, November 20, and the Senonia location opens on Friday, November 27. Both markets run through Christmas Eve, December 24.
Before you visit, check the official Christkindl Market website for the latest information on opening hours, locations, and event details.
Visit the Roswell Christkindlmarket
If you don’t want to make the drive to Lawrenceville for the Atlanta Christkindl Market, the Roswell Christkindlmarket is another great option for getting into the holiday spirit! Located at Bulloch Hall in Roswell, this festive market brings a little German Christmas charm to the Atlanta suburbs.
You can browse vendor stalls for unique gifts and Christmas decorations, enjoy festive food and drinks, and soak up the holiday atmosphere. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon or evening shopping for Christmas gifts and enjoying the seasonal festivities without driving as far from Atlanta.
2026 Dates: November 20 through December 23, 2026.
Location: Bulloch Hall, 180 Bulloch Avenue, Roswell, GA.
Admission: Free. Food, drinks, and merchandise are available for purchase.
The market’s website may still show some details from previous seasons, so check the official Roswell Christkindlmarket website for the latest hours and event information before visiting.
Go Ice Skating
Ice skating is one of my favorite ways to get into the Christmas spirit! Around Atlanta, you’ll find seasonal ice rinks with festive lights, holiday music, and plenty of opportunities for a fun winter outing. Whether you’re planning a date night, spending time with family, or meeting up with friends, here are a few places to go ice skating around Atlanta this holiday season.
Park Tavern
Head to Park Tavern in Piedmont Park for Miracle on 10th Street, opening Saturday, November 28, 2026.
This holiday experience combines covered ice skating with a fully decorated Christmas bar, festive cocktails, food, and plenty of twinkling lights. Whether you’re planning a date night, meeting friends for drinks, or looking for a festive outing with the family, it’s a fun way to get into the Christmas spirit.
The covered rink means you can skate rain or shine, and skate rentals will be available. After skating, warm up with a holiday drink and enjoy the Christmas decorations.
Opening date: Saturday, November 28, 2026
Pricing and reservations: Details are coming soon, so check the official Park Tavern website before your visit for the latest information.
Skate the Station at Atlantic Station
Skate the Station at Atlantic Station is another popular spot to go ice skating around Atlanta during the holiday season. The outdoor rink offers a fun winter atmosphere where you can skate with friends or family while enjoying the festive decorations around Atlantic Station.
The rink typically opens during the holiday season, but the dates, hours, and ticket prices can change each year. The 2026–2027 season details haven’t been confirmed yet, so check the official Atlantic Station website for updates before planning your visit.
Avalon on Ice
Avalon on Ice returns to Alpharetta for the 2026 holiday season! The Rockefeller-inspired ice rink sits in the middle of Avalon’s outdoor shopping area, making it a great spot to skate, browse the shops, and grab a cozy drink afterward.
Reservations are recommended to secure your preferred skating time, although walk-ups are welcome when space is available. If you’re planning a visit, here’s what to know.
Location: Avalon, 400 Avalon Boulevard, Alpharetta, GA
Opening: Holiday season 2026
Hours:
- Monday–Friday: 3 PM–9 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM–7 PM
Pricing:
- General admission: $18 per person, including skates
- Children 12 and under: $14 per child, including skates
For the latest availability and reservation information, check the official Avalon website before your visit.
See the Garden Lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden
If you love Christmas light displays, Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a must-see during the holiday season. Every year, the Garden transforms into a winter wonderland filled with dazzling light displays, glowing sculptures, and festive music. It’s a beautiful place to stroll around, take photos, and enjoy a holiday outing with family or friends.
For the 2026–2027 season, Garden Lights runs nightly from November 14, 2026, through January 10, 2027. This year brings expanded light displays along Flower Walk, the return of the popular Imaginary Worlds dragon, and new choreography for Nature’s Wonders, the Garden’s impressive curtain of light and sound.
Hours: The event runs nightly, with extended hours until midnight and last entry at 11 PM.
Tickets: Several ticket options are available, including Night Light tickets for discounted admission after 9:30 PM. Premium Plus tickets also include access to the Holiday Hideaway, with private fire pits, s’mores kits, and secluded seating.
Tickets and prices vary, so check the official Atlanta Botanical Garden website for current availability and details before your visit.
Celebrate the Holidays at Stone Mountain Christmas
For a festive holiday outing just outside Atlanta, head to Stone Mountain Christmas. During the holiday season, Stone Mountain Park transforms into a winter wonderland filled with more than two million lights, festive music, live entertainment, and holiday shows.
There’s plenty to enjoy throughout the park, from seasonal attractions and Christmas-themed entertainment to opportunities to see Santa. It’s a great option for families looking to spend an evening enjoying the holiday spirit.
2026 Dates: November 7, 2026, through January 3, 2027, on select dates.
Hours: Opening times vary by attraction and event. The Summit Skyride is scheduled to operate from 10 AM to 3 PM, while Stone Mountain Christmas activities have varying schedules.
Tickets: Admission options and prices vary depending on the experience you choose. Check the official Stone Mountain Park website for current ticket prices, operating dates, showtimes, and attraction schedules before visiting.
Light Displays and Drive-Thru Shows
If you love driving around to see Christmas lights, Atlanta has plenty of festive displays to add to your holiday bucket list. From drive-thru light shows you can enjoy from the warmth of your car to walk-through displays filled with millions of twinkling lights, these are some of the best places to see Christmas lights around Atlanta.
Experience IllumiNights at Zoo Atlanta
If you’re looking for a unique Christmas light display in Atlanta, IllumiNights: A Lantern Festival at Zoo Atlanta is worth adding to your holiday bucket list. During this nighttime event, the zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland filled with hundreds of handcrafted wildlife lanterns and colorful displays inspired by nature.
You can follow a mile-long trail of illuminated animals and scenes, grab a cup of hot cocoa, roast marshmallows by a fire pit, and enjoy festive treats along the way. It’s a fun holiday outing for families, couples, or anyone who loves exploring Christmas lights.
2026–2027 Dates: Select nights from November 21, 2026, through January 17, 2027.
Hours: 5:30 PM–9:30 PM, with last entry at 8 PM.
Ticket Prices:
- Adults (12+): $20.99–$24.99
- Children (ages 3–11): $17.99–$19.99
- Children 2 and under: Free
- Groups of 15 or more: $16.99–$18.99 per person
Ticket prices vary by date, and advance reservations are strongly recommended because capacity is limited.
Tip: IllumiNights is a separately ticketed nighttime event, and most zoo animals go indoors before dark. If you want to see the animals, consider visiting during the day before returning for the lantern festival. You’ll need a separate ticket for the evening event.
Check the official Zoo Atlanta website for available dates, tickets, and event details before visiting.
Drive Through World of Illumination
If you love Christmas lights but would rather enjoy them from the warmth of your car, World of Illumination is a fun holiday activity in Marietta. Located at Six Flags White Water, this drive-through light show features millions of colorful lights synchronized to festive music.
For the 2026 season, the show is called Rockin’ Christmas, with a music-inspired theme featuring giant speakers, Christmas tree guitars, and a tunnel of lights. The mile-long route takes around 20–30 minutes to drive through, making it a fun option for families, couples, or anyone looking for a festive evening without having to leave the car.
2026–2027 Dates: November 13, 2026, through January 3, 2027.
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 6 PM–10 PM. The show operates rain or shine.
Pricing: Tickets start at $39.99 per vehicle, regardless of how many people are in the car. Tickets must be purchased online in advance, and prices vary by date.
Tip: Arrive at your reserved time and consider visiting on a weeknight, when traffic through the show tends to move faster. You can bring snacks and nonalcoholic drinks to enjoy in the car while you wait.
Check the official World of Illumination website for tickets and updated details before visiting.
Experience WinterTide at Georgia Aquarium
Looking for a festive holiday activity that’s perfect for the whole family? Head to Georgia Aquarium in downtown Atlanta for WinterTide, a brand-new holiday experience debuting in 2026.
From November 13, 2026, through January 2, 2027, the aquarium will transform into a shimmering winter wonderland filled with dazzling lights, festive music, and holiday decorations. You can stroll beneath a towering 40-foot LED Christmas tree, enjoy special holiday-themed animal presentations, and explore Santa’s North Pole Village, which features playful activities, giant games, and seasonal treats.
You may even catch Scuba Claus diving alongside whale sharks and manta rays! On select days, visitors can also meet Santa and take holiday photos. With so much to see and do, WinterTide is a fun way to combine a visit to the aquarium with a little Christmas magic.
2026–2027 Dates: November 13, 2026, through January 2, 2027.
Tickets: WinterTide is included with general admission to Georgia Aquarium. Some experiences, such as photos with Santa, cost extra.
Check the official WinterTide website for tickets, event details, and the latest schedule.
Holiday Themed Restaurant Popups
Every year, more and more restaurants around Metro Atlanta get into the holiday spirit with festive decor, fun seasonal drinks, and limited-time holiday bites.
Two Birds Taphouse – Located on the Marietta Square, Two Birds goes all out every year with a different holiday theme and festive decor throughout the bar. They also serve up creative holiday cocktails and Christmas-inspired menu items that make it a fun spot to celebrate the season.
The Blind Elf at Tin Lizzy’s Midtown: Atlanta’s favorite holiday pop-up is returning for the 2026 holiday season! The Blind Elf transforms the space into an over-the-top Christmas wonderland filled with festive decorations, holiday cocktails, and seasonal food. It’s a fun spot to meet friends, enjoy a festive drink, and snap some holiday photos. Be sure to check for reservations and event details before visiting!
The Select Restaurant + Bar – Located in Sandy Springs, The Select is easily one of the most popular Christmas-themed restaurants in the area. The ceiling is decked out with hanging trees and ornaments, giving the whole place a magical holiday vibe. They also serve up fun, festive cocktails that fit the season perfectly. Just a heads-up — this spot gets really busy, so make a reservation if you can. If you’re planning to hang out at the bar, try going early or stopping by during the week.
Hamp & Harry’s – Hamp & Harry’s on Marietta Square is another spot to keep on your radar for the holiday season. In previous years, the restaurant has gone all out with festive decorations and creative Christmas themes, including last year’s Home Alone transformation. The 2026 theme and details haven’t been announced yet, but keep an eye out for updates if you want to enjoy holiday cocktails, seasonal food, and a festive atmosphere in Marietta.
Christmas Fun Just Outside Atlanta
Looking to add a little adventure to your holiday season? Head just beyond the city for some of the best Christmas lights, events, and family fun near Atlanta. These festive destinations are perfect for a weekend outing or a quick day trip.
Winter WonderLights at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia
If you’re looking for a festive light display outside Atlanta, Winter WonderLights at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia in Athens is worth the drive. Located about 1.5 hours from Atlanta, the garden transforms into a glowing winter wonderland filled with more than two million lights, colorful displays, and holiday music.
Follow a half-mile walking trail through illuminated scenes, including Jingle Bell Lane, the Northern Lights, and a Frosted Forest. You can also stop for hot chocolate, roast marshmallows for s’mores, and browse the holiday market along the way.
2026 Dates: Select evenings from November 19 through December 30, 2026. Special WonderLights Disco Nights will also take place on select dates in January 2027.
Hours: 5:30 PM–9:30 PM.
Ticket Prices:
- General admission: $15 per person, plus taxes and fees
- Peak nights: $18 per person, plus taxes and fees
- Children ages 3 and under: Free
Parking: Free off-site parking and shuttle service are available from the UGA Turner Soccer Complex. Limited paid parking options are also available.
Tickets must be purchased online in advance, and dates vary throughout the season. Check the official Winter WonderLights website for available dates, ticket options, and details before visiting.
Southern Belle Farm: Christmas on the Farm
Celebrate the holiday season down on the farm! Southern Belle Farm in McDonough, about an hour from Atlanta, is a fun Christmas outing for families looking to enjoy festive activities and a little country charm.
During the Christmas season, you can enjoy attractions like the Belle’s Barnstormer Slide, Reindeer Express, jumping pillows, hayrides, and the animal barn. There are also sweet treats to enjoy, and kids may even get the chance to visit with Santa. For an extra fee, you can also try activities like gem mining and paintball.
2026 Dates: The farm’s Christmas season typically takes place around late November through December. Exact dates for 2026 have not yet been confirmed.
Hours and Pricing: The 2026 hours and ticket prices have not been updated yet. Check the official Southern Belle Farm website before visiting for the latest seasonal details.
Experience Christmas in Helen, Georgia
If you’re looking for a cozy, festive holiday escape, Helen is calling your name. This charming Bavarian-style mountain town is about two hours from Atlanta and transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays, with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and plenty of Christmas charm. You can browse the shops, take photos around town, and even enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride.
One of the highlights of the season is Helen’s Christmas Market, hosted by the Helen Chamber of Commerce. The 19th Annual Helen’s Christmas Market will take place on November 28–29 and December 5–6, 2026. You’ll find unique handmade Christmas gifts and decorations, along with an assortment of sweets and treats. When you’re ready for something savory, there are plenty of restaurants around town to grab a bite to eat.
For more details, check the official Helen website before your visit.
Experience an Old-Fashioned Christmas in Dahlonega
If you love small-town Christmas charm, Dahlonega is worth adding to your holiday bucket list! Located about 1.5 hours from Atlanta in the North Georgia mountains, this historic town goes all out for the holidays with its annual Old Fashioned Christmas celebration.
The historic downtown square is decorated with twinkling lights and festive displays, creating a cozy atmosphere for an evening stroll. Browse local shops for unique Christmas gifts, enjoy holiday music, and look out for seasonal events and horse-drawn carriage rides. You can also stop at one of the restaurants or cafes around the square to warm up after exploring.
The festivities typically begin in late November and continue into early January, making Dahlonega a lovely destination for a Christmas day trip or a festive weekend getaway. Check the official Dahlonega website for the 2026 event schedule and details before you go.
Tips for Enjoying Christmas in Georgia
Before heading out to enjoy the holiday festivities, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit.
- Dress in layers: Georgia winters can be chilly, especially after sunset when you’re walking through outdoor light displays or Christmas markets.
- Check dates and hours ahead of time: Some Christmas events run only on select days, and schedules can change from year to year.
- Book tickets in advance: Popular attractions like Garden Lights, Holiday Nights and holiday performances can sell out, so it’s worth reserving your spot early.
- Plan for parking and crowds: Popular Christmas events can get busy, especially on weekends. Arriving early or visiting on a weekday can make your experience more enjoyable.
- Check the weather: Many holiday activities take place outdoors, so check the forecast and bring a jacket, umbrella, or comfortable walking shoes as needed.
Whether you want to see dazzling Christmas lights, enjoy a festive performance, browse a holiday market, or explore a charming mountain town, there are so many ways to celebrate the season in Georgia. From Atlanta’s holiday attractions to the small-town Christmas celebrations in North Georgia, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. I hope this guide helps you find a few new holiday traditions to enjoy this Christmas season!
I had no idea there were so many fun Christmas activities around Atlanta! The Garden Lights at the Botanical Garden look beautiful, and I’d love to visit the Christkindl Market for some festive treats. The wildlife lanterns at Zoo Atlanta also sound like something different from the usual Christmas displays. And a little trip to Helen for its Bavarian-style Christmas market would be wonderful!
Ahhh, I love the holiday season and all of the fun activities that come with it! Definitely going to save this for later.
The holiday season is my favorite time to visit cities. Atlanta looks like a great destination at this time, with the Garden of Lights and Old Fashioned Christmas.
So many lovely Christmas ideas! I’d especially love to see the Garden Lights at the Botanical Garden and the old-fashioned Christmas in Dahlonega. Thanks for all the inspiration!