6 of the best things you can do in Atlanta this weekend
Access Atlanta Staff
We’re making a list and checking it twice. Christmas is here! And this weekend, we’ll help you make your holidays even more magical with a roundup of all the best weekend things to do in Atlanta. Whether you’re looking for some last-minute shopping or planning a night out with friends, we’ve got you covered!
Here are our top picks for things to do in Atlanta this weekend:
Take a journey into a 19th-century New York marketplace
This one-night-only event at Distillery of Modern Art will be unlike any other — and possibly unlike anything you’ve ever seen. It’s an immersive theater experience set in a 19th-century New York marketplace on the last day of Hanukkah, where Jewish immigrants are busy selling their wares.
You can expect incredible real-life stories from this time period, such as how these immigrants escaped persecution in Western Russia and found freedom in America, as well as delicious cocktails and tasty appetizers from The General Muir.
Location: Dekalb - 2197 Irvindale Way, Chamblee, GA 30341; Time: 7-9 p.m.; Date: Thursday, Dec. 22; Admission: $75; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Make your merry way to the Harry Potter Exhibition
And you can take your holiday movie experience even further this season and head downtown for the Harry Potter exhibit. The magical exhibition features costumes and props, including Quidditch equipment, wands and other accessories used in the movies.
Location: Downtown - 155 Carnegie Way NW; Time: 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec 22, and Friday, Dec. 23; 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 24; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Check out local artist Erin Nicole Henry’s solo exhibition
Erin Nicole Henry is a phenomenal local oil painter. You’ll be truly amazed and inspired when viewing her new exhibition entitled “Open Window Kisses,” a celebration of women and the power of their femininity. On display now through Jan. 14, 2023.
Location: Downtown - 186 Mitchell St SW; Date: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22 through Sunday, Dec. 25; Admission: Free; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Score tickets to an Atlanta Hawks game before 2023
Don’t drop the ball! Your end-of-year plans won’t be complete without a stop inside State Farm Arena to watch the Atlanta Hawks snatch a dub.
If you’re superstitious, listen up. We’ve heard that not attending an Atlanta Hawks game before the start of 2023 may bring you some bad luck, so why take the risk? Buckets, ankle breakers and immaculate vibes can all be expected from the Hawks’ holiday game against the Detroit Pistons on Friday night.
Location: Downtown at State Farm Arena - 1 State Farm Dr; Date: Friday, Dec. 23; Event Starts: 7:30 p.m.; Doors Open: 6:15 p.m.; Admission: Starting at $35; Website: nba.com/hawks
Shop for last-minute gifts at the Christmas Eve Maker’s Market
Please note this event has been canceled due to inclement weather.
“Due to intense weather predicted by all our weather sources for this Friday/Saturday we have decided that last weekend was our final show of the year (we will not be out this weekend)! What an amazing year it’s been,” Maker’s Market stated.
If you waited until the last minute to buy Christmas gifts. Don’t worry! The Atlantic Station Maker’s Market is here to save the day. The market will be open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Christmas Eve, with plenty of local artisans and entrepreneurs selling their handmade goods from jewelry and home décor to soaps and candles.
CHECK OUT: 13 kid-friendly holiday activities in metro Atlanta
There is also a Friday, Dec. 23 market from 4-10 p.m. for those who want to get a head start.
Location: Midtown - 1380 Atlantic Dr NW; Time: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Dec. 24; Admission: Free; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Keep the Christmas spirit going late into the night
It’s time to get spirited with a special holiday show at The EARL!
CHECK OUT: Where to mix and mingle in Atlanta this holiday season
Get ready to jingle bell rock as The Sporrs, The Sunglasses and Small take over the stage for an evening of music. This is a great way to support local bands, and make sure you’re still in the Christmas mood after a “tiring” day of celebrating with loved ones, watching holiday movies, eating cookies and drinking nog.
Location: East Atlanta - 488 Flat Shoals Ave SE; Time: 9 p.m.; Date: Sunday, Dec. 25; Admission: $5; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
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