10 things to do in Atlanta this weekend
Looking for the perfect way to spend your weekend in Atlanta? Look no further! This weekend, the city is bursting with festive events that will get you into the holiday spirit. Whether you’re craving some winter wonderland vibes, delicious food or exciting live entertainment, Atlanta has it all.
Tree Lighting on the Square
Get ready for the most magical night of the season! The Tree Lighting on the Square is here to light up your holidays with festive cheer and unforgettable moments. Sip on warm, creamy hot cocoa, munch on delightful gingerbread cookies, and sing along to your favorite holiday carols as the twinkling tree takes center stage in Downtown Decatur.
Location: Downtown Decatur - 101 East Court Square; Date: December 5; Admission: Free; Time: 6-7:30 p.m.; Website: exploregeorgia.org
Christmas Tree Lighting & Santa on the Square
Join the Marietta community for a night filled with holiday cheer as the iconic tree sparkles to life, creating a breathtaking winter wonderland. Meet Santa himself for festive photos, sip on velvety hot cocoa and savor every moment.
Location: Marietta - 50 N Park Square; Date: December 5; Admission: Free; Time: 4-8 p.m.; Website: mariettaga.gov
Sips Under the Sea: Holidays
Step into an enchanting underwater wonderland where vibrant holiday décor and shimmering lights transform the galleries into pure magic. Dance the night away, explore beautifully illuminated exhibits, and create unforgettable memories in this immersive after-hours experience.
Location: Downtown Atlanta- 225 Baker St NW; Date: December 6; Admission: $61.99; Time: 7-10 p.m.; Website: georgiaaquarium.org
Chamblee Holiday Hoopla Festival
The Chamblee Holiday Hoopla is bringing non-stop festive fun for everyone this season! From cupcake decorating and hot chocolate sipping to crafting holiday keepsakes, this event is packed with magical moments. The evening comes to an end with the dazzling Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:45 p.m., lighting up the night with holiday spirit.
Location: Chamblee- 3518 Broad St; Date: December 6; Admission: Free; Time: 5-7 p.m.; Website: chambleeholidayhoopla.net
Conyers Christmas Parade
Watch as the streets come alive with dazzling floats, twinkling lights and the joyful sounds of holiday cheer. Santa himself will make a grand appearance, spreading magic and smiles for kids of all ages! From marching bands and festive performances to heartwarming community spirit, this is more than a parade – it’s the holiday event of the year.
Location: Downtown Conyers- 1174 Bulldog Cir NE; Date: December 7; Admission: Free; Time: Starts at 2 p.m.; Website: conyersga.com
National Slime Day
To celebrate National Slime Day, Sloomoo Institute is giving the first 500 guests who bring any container of their choice a free 9 oz slime. This one-of-a-kind sensory experience is a paradise for slime lovers of all ages, featuring interactive slime pits, DIY slime customization, and mesmerizing ASMR stations that will leave you hooked.
Location: Buckhead- 3637 Peachtree St NE; Date: December 7; Admission: Starting at $21.99; Time: noon to 6 p.m.; Website: sloomooinstitute.com
Buckhead Village Holiday Celebration
Indulge in seasonal treats, sip on cozy drinks, and shop exclusive holiday specials at your favorite Buckhead Village boutiques. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of holiday joy, community spirit, and picture-perfect moments.
Location: Buckhead- 3035 Peachtree Rd; Date: December 7; Admission: Free; Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Website: buckheadvillagedistrict.com
Cookies with Santa at the Zoo
Bring the whole family for a special one-on-one visit with Santa and capture the magic with a professional photo that will last a lifetime. While you wait, enjoy festive cookies, hot cocoa, holiday crafts, and tons of photo ops to get everyone in the holiday spirit! It’s the perfect way to make cherished memories and kick off the season with joy.
Location: Downtown Atlanta- 800 Cherokee Ave SE; Date: December 7-8; Admission: $35; Time: 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Website: zooatlanta.org
Holiday Spirit at Oakland Cemetery
Stroll through beautifully decorated mausoleums adorned by local garden clubs, enjoy live holiday music, and sip on festive drinks as the spirit of the holidays comes alive. Snap a photo with Santa (yes, pets are welcome too!), and don’t miss the Holiday Gift Market featuring unique, handcrafted treasures from local artisans – perfect for everyone on your list!
Location: Southeast Atlanta- 248 Oakland Ave SE; Date: December 7-8; Admission: Free; Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Website: oaklandcemetery.com
Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker
This enchanting production brings the classic holiday tale to life like never before. Follow Clara on her unforgettable journey through a sparkling snow kingdom and the Land of Sweets, where dreams come alive and holiday magic reigns supreme. Whether it’s a beloved family tradition or your first time experiencing this iconic masterpiece, The Nutcracker is an Atlanta must-see that will leave you in awe.
Location: Cobb County - 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy; Date: December 7-26; Admission: $30 and up; Time: Times vary, see website; Website: atlantaballet.com
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