10 things to do in Atlanta this weekend
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and there’s no better place to celebrate the holiday magic than in Atlanta! Whether you’re looking for seasonal marketplaces and family-friendly shows or festive cocktails and grown-up holiday cheer, the city is buzzing with things to do this season. Get ready to sleigh your holiday plans with our list of 10 must-do activities that will have you feeling merry and bright all season long!
And don’t forget to drift away with SweetWater Brewery’s bright, juicy brew and journey to a realm of citrus bliss. Nothing hoppy here – it’s a tropical trip in every sip. Some say this Shangri-la is a myth: an IPA that’s high on refreshment and low on bitterness. But those who know understand. And those who’ve tasted it swear it’s a trip worth taking.
Try DayTrip IPA at the SweetWater Taproom or on draft around Atlanta.
Anime Weekend Atlanta
This epic weekend is packed with thrilling cosplay, incredible panels, live entertainment, and everything anime lovers dream of. Meet your favorite voice actors, immerse yourself in a sea of fan art, and shop for exclusive merch you won’t find anywhere else. From anime screenings to jaw-dropping cosplay contests, this is the place where fandoms come alive.
Location: Downtown Atlanta - 285 Andrew Young International Blvd NW; Date: December 12-15; Admission: $30 and up; Time: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Website: awa-con.com
Winterfest
Embrace the magic of the season at Winterfest, the ultimate holiday celebration at Virginia-Highland District! With sparkling lights, live music, festive food trucks, and endless family fun, Winterfest is your one-stop destination for all things merry and bright.
Location: Virginia-Highland -1192 North Highland Avenue Northeast; Date: December 13-14; Admission: Free; Time: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Website: virginiahighlanddistrict.com
Decatur Holiday Marketplace
Get ready to shop, sip, and celebrate at the Decatur Holiday Marketplace—where holiday magic meets local creativity! Explore a treasure trove of unique, handmade gifts from talented local artisans, from stunning jewelry and art to one-of-a-kind holiday décor.
Location: Decatur - 155 Erie Ave; Date: December 13-14; Admission: Free; Time: 5:30-9 p.m. (Friday); 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Saturday); Website: decaturholidaymarketplace.com
TNA Wresting
TNA Wrestling is making its epic return to Georgia for two unforgettable nights of non-stop action! Catch all the adrenaline at Atlanta’s Center Stage as wrestling legends and champions collide in back-to-back televised events! Witness icons like Matt and Jeff Hardy, TNA World Heavyweight Champion Nic Nemeth, Knockouts World Champion Jordynne Grace, X-Division Champion Mike Bailey, and World Tag Team Champions ABC in action.
Location: Midtown Atlanta - 1374 W Peachtree St NW; Date: December 13-14; Admission: $30 and up; Time: Doors open at 6:30 p.m., Show starts at 7:30 p.m.; Website: centerstage-atlanta.com
Frozen: The Musical
The blockbuster film that shattered records in 2013 is now a jaw-dropping, heart-pounding musical in Sandy Springs! Get ready for an unforgettable journey packed with brand-new songs from the Oscar and Grammy-winning duo Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez.
Location: Sandy Springs - 1 Galambos Wy; Date: December 13-26; Admission: $62 and up; Time: Show times vary, see website; Website: cityspringstheatre.com
Monday Night Brewing Westside 10
Join the Monday Night Brewing Westside 10k Run for a thrilling challenge through the vibrant Westside business and residential district! Crush the hills and claim your victory with epic participant swag, including a commemorative race bib, pint glass, and medallion to complete your Bear/Wolf/Hawk collection.
Location: West Midtown - 670 Trabert Ave NW; Date: December 14; Admission: $54 (10K); $59 (10 Miler); Time: 8-11 a.m.; Website: runsignup.com
Ugly Sweater Block Party Marietta Square
Get ready to sleigh at the Ugly Sweater Block Party in Marietta Square! Break out your most hilariously hideous holiday sweater and join the ultimate festive bash featuring live music, food trucks, craft brews, and holiday vibes.
Location: Marietta - 99 S Park Square NE; Date: December 14; Admission: $17.50; Time: 3-10 p.m.; Website: bigtickets.com
Holiday Mini Market at Atlanta Humane Society
The Holiday Mini Market at Atlanta Humane Society is your one-stop shop for festive vibes and heartfelt giving! Shop unique gifts from local vendors, enjoy cozy holiday treats, and snap pics with adorable furry friends looking for their forever homes.
Location: Upper Westside - 1551 Perry Blvd NW; Date: December 14; Admission: Free; Time: Noon to 3 p.m.; Website: atlantahumane.org
Grant Park Candlelight Tour of Homes
Experience the magic of the holidays like never before at the Grant Park Candlelight Tour of Homes! Stroll through Atlanta’s most historic and beautifully decorated homes, all aglow with warm candlelight and holiday charm. Immerse yourself in timeless architecture, festive cheer, and the spirit of community as local musicians serenade you with holiday tunes.
Location: Grant Park - 501 Grant St SE; Date: December 14-15; Admission: $30; Time: 6-10 p.m.(Saturday); 5-9 p.m. (Sunday); Website: candlelighttourofhomes.com
The PAW Patrol Immersive Experience
Calling all little adventurers! The PAW Patrol Experience is here, and it’s time to jump into action with Marshall, Skye, Chase, and the whole crew as they protect Adventure Bay! Kids of all ages can live their rescue mission dreams with interactive environments straight from the show, including a towering Lookout Tower, ride-on cars, a zip-line, and so much more.
Location: Dunwoody - 4551 Olde Perimeter Way; Date: December 14-May 1; Admission: $28; Time: Times vary, see website; Website: camp.com
Pop the bubbly! 20 spots to ring in the new year in metro Atlanta