Family fun: 10 kid-friendly activities in metro Atlanta this December
As December unfolds its magical charm, families in metro Atlanta can look forward to many enchanting and joyous activities that embrace the holiday spirit. From classic theatrical performances to whimsical light displays and outdoor festivities, Atlanta has something for every family member to enjoy. Take a journey through the city’s vibrant holiday scene as we explore 10 family-friendly activities that will create lasting memories. From timeless tales at the Alliance Theater to the bright Garden Lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden and the spirited Noon Year’s Eve Celebration at Skyline Park, this guide ensures that your December is filled with warmth, laughter and the spirit of togetherness.
A Christmas Carol - Alliance Theater
The Alliance Theatre extends a warm invitation to audiences to rediscover the timeless tale of redemption in its cherished production, “A Christmas Carol,” featuring a captivating new adaptation. Immerse yourself in the enchanting streets of London as the story of Ebenezer Scrooge unfolds, accompanied by stunning costumes, a new set design, beautiful live music and an exceptional cast. It promises to be a truly magical experience for the whole family.
Location: Midtown - 1280 Peachtree St. NE; Website: alliancetheatre.org; Dates: Now until Sunday, Dec. 24; Admission: $17.50+
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer - Center for Puppetry Arts
Adapted by Jon Ludwig, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer returns in a faithful rendition of the cherished 1964 stop-motion special. Narrated by the delightful Sam the Snowman, this heartwarming holiday tale follows Rudolph, Hermey the Elf, and Yukon Cornelius on a merry adventure of acceptance and self-discovery. Battling the fearsome Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, the trio explores festive locales like Santa’s Workshop and the Island of Misfit Toys. Live performances of the original songs add a magical touch, making this holiday journey a celebration to remember.
Location: Midtown - 1404 Spring St. NW; Website: puppet.org; Dates: Now until Sunday, Dec. 31; Admission: $21+
Stone Mountain Christmas - Stone Mountain Park
Experience holiday wonder at Stone Mountain Christmas with a captivating Christmas Drone Show featuring color-changing drones choreographed to festive tunes, the World’s Largest Christmas Light Show and catch Santa’s Big Flight during the nightly Enchanted Tree Lighting Ceremony. Visit Santa in person at his North Pole office for a magical chat and much more!
Location: Stone Mountain - 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd.; Website: stonemountainpark.com; Dates: Now until Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024; Admission: $19.99+
Holiday in the Park - Six Flags Over Georgia
Enjoy the magic of the season at Six Flags Over Georgia’s “Holiday in the Park,” where the park transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, live shows and festive attractions. Visit Santa at The North Pole, enjoy winter-themed activities and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the holiday season with attractions like the Candlelight Carousel, Holiday Express and Merry Lane. It’s a dazzling celebration for the whole family!
Location: Austell - 275 Riverside Pkwy.; Website: sixflags.com; Dates: Now until Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights - Atlanta Botanical Garden
Celebrating its 13th year, Garden Lights Holiday Nights welcomes back beloved favorites alongside fresh installations. Look forward to new features like Skyline Frost, a mesmerizing skynet and illuminated metal birds and deer. The event promises a magical experience with additions such as a vibrant Glowing Grove along the Flower Walk, oversized flowers guiding the way to Ice Goddess, and the eagerly awaited return of White Rabbit to the Skyline Garden Pond.
Location: Midtown - 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE; Website: atlantabg.org; Dates: Now until Sunday, Jan. 14; Admission: $34.95+
The Hip Hop Nutcracker - Fox Theatre
Experience a one-of-a-kind holiday celebration for all ages with The Hip Hop Nutcracker. This contemporary dance spectacle creatively weaves Tchaikovsky’s classic music into a modern narrative. The vibrant performance features a talented ensemble of twelve all-star dancers, along with a DJ, a violinist and the influential MC Kurtis Blow, a pioneer in hip-hop. It’s a unique fusion of tradition and modernity, promising an energetic and memorable holiday experience for everyone.
Location: Midtown - 660 Peachtree St. NE; Website: foxtheatre.org; Date: Sunday, Dec. 3; Time: 7:30 p.m.; Admission: $40+
Snow Day - Alpharetta City Center
Alpharetta City Center invites everyone to the 2nd Annual Snow Day. The Town Green transforms into a winter wonderland with snow flurries and festive jazz. Delight in family-friendly activities, including crafts and a petting zoo, holiday-themed treats and capture cherished moments at the holiday photo booth. The best part? The event is free. Make sure to bundle up!
Location: Alpharetta - 2001 Commerce St.; Website: awesomealpharetta.com/snow-day; Date: Saturday, Dec. 9; Time: Noon to 3 p.m.; Admission: Free
Enchanted Woodland Wonders - Chattahoochee Nature Center
Embark on a magical journey with the family at CNC’s highly anticipated Family Fun Day, Enchanted Woodland Wonders! Immerse yourselves in the holiday spirit with live reindeer, seasonal festivities, a winter photo booth, and an array of activities, including crafts and lawn games.
Location: Roswell - 9135 Willeo Rd.; Website: chattnaturecenter.org; Date: Sunday, Dec. 10; Time: Noon to 4 p.m.; Admission: $9+
Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl FanFest - Georgia World Congress Center
Get ready for kickoff at the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl FanFest, a massive indoor fan experience. Dive into interactive attractions like punting, passing, and kicking games, obstacle courses and zip-lining. Explore sponsor displays, free samples and shop for exclusive merchandise. Enjoy live entertainment, pep rallies, bands and mascots from both schools. It’s the ultimate celebration!
Location: Downtown - 285 Andrew Young International Blvd. NW; Website: chick-fil-apeachbowl.com/fanfest; Date: Saturday, Dec. 30; Time: 8 a.m. to noon; Admission: TBD
Noon Year’s Eve Celebration - Skyline Park
Ring in 2024 early with the little ones at Skyline Park for New Year’s Eve. Admission tickets grant unlimited access to mini-golf, boardwalk games, the slide and all-you-can-drink hot chocolate. Festivities start at 10 a.m. with fun entertainment, building up to the Noon Year’s Eve countdown!
Location: East Atlanta - 675 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE; Website: poncecityroof.com; Date: Sunday, Dec. 31; Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Admission: $25+
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