Must-visit metro Atlanta communities during the holidays
The holidays are well underway, making this a perfect time to explore the city’s dazzling lights and sights. Several communities around metro Atlanta are decked out with sparkling lights and festive cheer to make this season bright. We’ve compiled a list of various Atlanta-area neighborhoods that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit! Remember to bundle up and grab some hot cocoa to stay warm as you take in the wonderful wintertime decor.
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Alpharetta
‘Tis the season to make your way over to all that Alpharetta has to offer during the holidays. First off, the Avalon hosts a variety of joyful celebrations, including Santa’s Secret ‘Stache and skating with Avalon on Ice. Then tune into 89.7 FM on your radio to catch Pierce Lights, a brilliant light display with over 50,000 lights that are synced to music.
Midtown
From Colony Square to the Fox Theatre, take a stroll down Peachtree Street in Midtown to see all the lovely trees adorned with festive decorations and bright lights. Another wonderful Midtown winter destination with plenty to see (and do) is Atlantic Station. Every evening this holiday season, from 5 to 9 p.m., you can experience “Celebration at the Station” to take in a stunning light display of Atlantic Green’s Christmas tree.
Dunwoody
After finishing your holiday shopping at Perimeter Mall, make sure to stop by Dunwoody’s Brook Run Park. The park has transformed into a festive wonderland with over 85,000 lights. This year’s theme is “The Sweet Shoppe,” and as you walk through the park, you can find a chocolate volcano, a life-sized ice cream truck and more.
Marietta
A particularly lovely time of year to visit Historic Marietta Square is during the holidays. You’ll experience a small-town Christmas movie-like atmosphere as you meander across the square and take in the marvelous holiday lights. Due West UMC’s “Light the Night,” a self-guided walking tour with a gingerbread house, characters, ornaments, and more than 50,000 lights, is another fantastic holiday attraction in Marietta. Check out this holiday lights map if you would like to explore more lights around Cobb County.
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Downtown Atlanta
As the beating heart of the city, Downtown Atlanta is special, and the holiday season makes it even brighter. If you haven’t visited Woodruff Park yet, this is the ideal opportunity to do so and check out their Light and Sound Station. It is an interactive holiday light show that has been set up at the gazebo close to the park’s southern edge. Come with your friends, family or your significant other and have fun clapping, whistling or singing as you watch the lights come alive.
Sandy Springs
Come explore the enchanted Sparkle Village in City Springs, which is open through New Year’s Day. A variety of miniature holiday-themed houses are displayed during this free month-long event. They are made by non-profit organizations, local businesses and schools. Get ready for some fun and festive photo ops!
Stone Mountain
Stone Mountain is a great destination to visit during the holidays, whether it’s the popular Stone Mountain Christmas event at Stone Mountain Park or keeping up with the tradition of “A Whole Lot of Christmas.” For over 25 years, a family has decked out their house and lawn from top to bottom with mesmerizing holiday decor that includes Santa’s workshop, a Disney section and much more. Located at 1833 Smokerise Summit, this Stone Mountain holiday landmark is a must, and all donations benefit Make-a-Wish Georgia.
Roswell
During the holidays, Roswell turns into a charming winter village with decorations and lights all around. Visit Roswell’s “Deck the Square” to see the 37 exquisitely decorated Christmas trees and experience the beauty of the season. Afterward, be sure to check out the Fox Family Christmas Light Display, featuring thousands of lights synchronized to music on 88.3 FM.
Duluth
You’ll discover that Duluth is a magnificent winter wonderland all on its own. The Duluth Town Green is beautifully decorated, with many ornaments and lights spreading holiday cheer throughout the community. Visiting the Duluth Town Green is a must if you’re searching for a festive backdrop for those special photo moments. Little ones will enjoy seeing Santa’s sleigh, illuminated life-size ornaments, a light tunnel and more.
Stockbridge
Visit Stockbridge’s free “Giganti-Deer Light Show” if you wish to treat the kids to a memorable light show. As the lights are set to the music, tune your radio to 98.1 FM and enjoy the show. Everyone will love this family-friendly event, and on Saturday nights, kids get complimentary 3D glasses for the show!
