Holiday festivities may look slightly different this year to adjust for COVID-19 safety guidelines, but there are still many magical events and things-to-do in north Georgia and metro Atlanta that feel like stepping right into a Hallmark movie. From winter markets and stunning light displays to a festive train ride straight out of the Polar Express, here are the top attractions for Holiday-lovers of all ages to enjoy.
Atlanta
Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens
Ranked as one of National Geographic's Top 10 Light Displays in the world, Callaway Garden's Fantasy in Lights features a Christmas Village, dazzling illuminated forest, and a Jolly Trolley ride (Masks are Required). There is also an option to view the lights from the comfort of your vehicle.
A Christmas Carol Alliance Theater
Take a trip back in time with Alliance Theatre's drive-in production of a Christmas Carol. Drive right up to the theatre stage and dial in on your radio, with shows commencing rain or shine. Only one ticket is required per car.
Skate the Sky Ponce City Market
With incredible views of the Atlanta skyline, The Roof at Ponce City Market will feature an ice-skating rink, and private igloos (socially distanced apart from other another) for rent. Reservations are required for ice-skating in 50-minute slots.
All igloos will be sanitized between occupants, and food and beverages are available.
Winter Wonderland at Fernbank
Fernbank's Winter Wonderland exhibit features celebrations and traditions from around the world, as well as a tour of towering snow globes (some up to 7 feet tall), and a sock skating rink. Capacity is limited and masks are required inside and outside of the exhibit.
Stone Mountain Christmas
Enjoy the Summit Skryide, Scenic Railroad, millions of dazzling lights, spectacular shows and appearances from favorite holiday characters at the Stone Mountain Christmas event, open now through January 3, 2021. Children will also be thrilled to swing by Santa's North Pole office to take a chat from a safe distance. Masks are required and daily capacity will be limited, so guests are encouraged to purchase attraction passes in advance.
North Georgia
Santa Express in Blue Ridge
Take a Christmas-themed ride aboard the Blue Ridge Santa Express, complete with a reading of "Twas the Night Before Christmas", a candy cane and traditional bell. At the conclusion of the ride, kiddos can take photos and videos with Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Christmas Caboose at the Depot (with no hugs allowed for COVID-19 guidelines). While on board the well-sanitized trains, guests must wear masks and capacity is limited 50%.
Ellijay Wine Tastings
For a festive, adult day-trip, bundle up and enjoy a glass of wine at one of Ellijay's infamous vineyards, while overlooking a beautiful, winter mountain view. Carteca Vineyards, Engelheim Vineyards, Chateau Meichtry and Fainting Goats Vineyards are known for both taste and experience with outdoor seating for extra safety precautions.
Christkindlsmarkt in Helen
Visit a traditional German event with unique Chrismas gifts, decorations, food and treats in the Helen's exquisite Downtown Marketplatz. The town is a re-creation of an alpine village, with old-world towers and cobblestone alleys, richly decorated for the holiday season. The market will take place on the first two weekend in December, but the warm and hearty food and drinks and other attractions will continue throughout the entire month. Social distancing and face masks are required per shopkeepers' request and the festival's space has been extended to give more room for visitors to space out.
Dahlonega's Old-Fashioned Christmas
Throughout the month of December, enjoy caroling, wine tastings, live theater Christmas events, and other entertainment in the ultimate Hallmark town of Dahlonega. There will also be a Christmas market, holiday concerts, and tree decorating. Visitors must wear a mask and socially distance during the event.
North Georgia and metro Atlanta have a lot to offer, and our real estate agents are proud to call these neighborhoods home. If you're looking to relocate to the area-even around the holidays-check out our buying guide to get started working with one of our best-in-class real estate specialist.
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