Atlanta transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a variety of festive activities for all ages. Whether you’re a fan of dazzling Christmas light displays, bustling Christmas markets, or cozy holiday bars, this guide has everything you need to make your holidays magical. Dive in to explore Atlanta’s top Christmas activities, and let the holiday spirit shine!
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Christmas Lights in and Around Atlanta
Professional Christmas Light Displays
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights – Atlanta
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a beloved annual tradition that transforms the garden into a glowing winter wonderland. Visitors can enjoy over 2 million sparkling lights, including festive displays like the magical “Orchid Lights” and the spectacular “Tunnel of Lights.” The event also features themed areas, train rides, and seasonal activities, creating a memorable experience for guests of all ages. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season surrounded by the beauty of nature.
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Grant Park Candlelight Tour of Homes – Grant Park
Discover the charm of the holiday season at the Candlelight Tour of Homes! This annual event invites you to explore beautifully decorated homes in the area, each showcasing unique holiday décor and festive cheer. Enjoy a magical evening filled with warm lights, seasonal beauty, and community spirit.
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IllumiNights at the Zoo – Atlanta
Brighten your holiday season with IllumiNights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival! Wander through Zoo Atlanta after dark and marvel at breathtaking hand-crafted lanterns that celebrate wildlife and nature with dazzling color and light. Perfect for all ages, this enchanting event promises a magical evening filled with wonder and holiday cheer.
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Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular – Buford
Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular at Lanier Islands offers a dazzling holiday experience for all ages. Guests can enjoy a drive-through light show with over 1.5 million lights set to festive music. This winter wonderland features iconic scenes, including themed displays and holiday attractions. In addition to the light show, visitors can take part in holiday activities like snow tubing, ice skating, and carnival rides at Snow Island, adding extra fun for the whole family. The event is a great way to celebrate the season with family-friendly entertainment and picturesque views of Lake Lanier.
Find more details here.
Burton Christmas Lights – Fayetteville
The Burton Christmas Lights is a beloved family-operated holiday light display located in Fayetteville, Georgia. This dazzling seasonal attraction features a variety of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and holiday-themed setups that spread joy and create memorable experiences for visitors. A favorite for local families, it embodies the magic of the holidays in a charming community setting.
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Noel Magic Lights – Hampton
Noël Magic Lights offers Georgia’s largest drive-through animated light show, synchronized to festive Christmas music. Open nightly from November 22 to January 1, the event provides a magical experience for guests of all ages at the Atlanta Motor Speedway. Visitors can enjoy dazzling holiday displays from the comfort of their vehicles. Tickets are available online or on-site, with different pricing for weekdays and weekends.
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Lights of Joy – Kennesaw
Lights of Joy is a stunning holiday light display located in Kennesaw, Georgia, recognized as the largest residential Christmas light display in the state. Featuring over 1.2 million LED lights, the display includes synchronized music shows, 40 musical trees, the “Tunnel of Joy” with over 100,000 lights, and whimsical installations like Santa on a helicopter and tractor. This community favorite spans more than 75 miles of lights and uses innovative LED technology to reduce energy consumption. Visitors are invited to park at Futures Church and experience the magical walk-through event.
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Glow Light Show – Lawrenceville
Glow Light Show is a dazzling holiday experience located at Coolray Field in Lawrenceville, GA. Running from November 15 to December 29, 2024, this drive-through event features over 1 million synchronized LED lights that dance to classic holiday music, offering a magical experience from the comfort of your vehicle. On select evenings, the event expands into a holiday festival with free parking and entry, offering food vendors, amusement rides, games, craft workshops, and photo opportunities. It’s a memorable outing for all ages, blending the joy of the season with unique attractions
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Lights of Life – Marietta
The Lights of Life at Life University in Marietta, Georgia, is a long-standing holiday tradition, now in its 35th year. This spectacular light display transforms the university’s 110-acre campus into a winter wonderland, featuring over one million LED lights, including a 65-foot Santa and sleigh, the tallest such display in the Southeast. Families can enjoy pony rides, a petting zoo, train rides, photos with Santa, and festive concessions. Operating nightly from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, this affordable event ($5–$10 per car on weekdays and weekends) is beloved for its community focus and dazzling display of holiday cheer.
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World of Illumination – Marietta
The World of Illumination in Marietta, GA, offers the “Cosmic Sleigh Ride,” a spectacular drive-through holiday light show. Located at Six Flags White Water, this dazzling display features millions of synchronized lights, immersive tunnels, and uniquely themed installations, all set to festive music. Running nightly from November 15 through December 31, it promises a magical experience for all ages, creating cherished holiday memories from the comfort of your vehicle.
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Fantasy in Lights – Pine Mountain
Fantasy In Lights at Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia, is a beloved holiday tradition that features a dazzling seven-mile drive-through light display. With over 10 million lights and 17 themed scenes, the event creates a magical winter experience. Highlights include the Celebration Lake with dancing trees commemorating 30 years of the event, the Jolly Trolley ride, and the immersive Christmas Village. Visitors can enjoy festive shopping, hot chocolate, and meet holiday characters like Santa and Rudolph. It’s a must-see for families and holiday enthusiasts alike.
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Stone Mountain Christmas – Stone Mountain
Stone Mountain Christmas is a beloved holiday tradition at Stone Mountain Park, running from November 9 through January 5. The event dazzles with over two million lights, festive music, and a variety of enchanting attractions. Highlights include the Christmas Drone & Light Show, Santa’s Big Flight, a festive Christmas Parade, and a heartwarming lighted walk-through experience. Visitors can enjoy the Summit Skyride, scenic railroad rides, and live seasonal entertainment. The event also features a chance to meet Santa and participate in special holiday-themed activities.
Find more details here.
Neighborhood Christmas Light Displays
Hrockin Hraincky Christmas Lights – Acworth
Experience a captivating holiday light display in Acworth with precision synchronization, moving lights and dramatic music stops that will leave you in awe. Tune in to 107.7 FM to enjoy the full experience as the lights dance to the beat. Donations are welcomed at Snoopy’s red doghouse to support Angels Among Us Pet Rescue. Visit from November 30 to January 1, Sunday through Thursday from 6-10 p.m., and Friday to Saturday from 6-11 p.m. The display is located at 3848 Rivers Run Trace NW—don’t miss this festive spectacle!
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Smoot Family Christmas Light Show – Acworth
Experience the dazzling spectacle of over 75,000 LED lights at the Autumn Drive Christmas Light Show in Acworth! Synchronized to music on 90.7 FM, this festive display brings holiday cheer to life. Open from November 28 to January 1, the show runs Sunday through Thursday from 6-10 p.m. and Friday through Saturday from 6-11 p.m. Donations benefit The Lupus Foundation of America, Georgia Chapter, making this a holiday tradition that gives back. Visit at 3699 Autumn Dr. and join the celebration!
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PierceLights – Alpharetta
Enjoy the holiday magic at the Oak Terrace Synchronized Light Show in Alpharetta! Featuring over 56,000 twinkling lights and 15,000 vibrant pixels, this dazzling display is perfectly synchronized to music on 89.7 FM. Park in designated spaces to watch the show and soak in the festive spirit. Running from November 28 to January 5, this community favorite supports the Wounded Warrior Project through on-site donations. Visit 370 Oak Terrace for a holiday experience that’s as heartwarming as it is spectacular!
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Felix Family Christmas Lights – Dallas
Celebrate the season with a magical holiday lights display featuring Santa waving in the window, the “Peanuts” gang, and Frosty the Snowman, all brought to life with dazzling lights and computer animation. Tune your car radio to 100.9 FM to enjoy synchronized Christmas classics as you drive through the neighborhood. On select nights, you can even meet Santa or The Grinch! Proceeds from this joyful event support Paulding Public Safety Appreciation, Inc., spreading holiday cheer while giving back to the community.
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Atkinson Family Christmas Lights – Dallas
Step into the holiday spirit with this nostalgic A Charlie Brown Christmas-themed light display in Dallas! Featuring 50,000 lights synchronized to beloved Christmas tunes on 99.1 FM, this enchanting display includes giant snowflakes, a 20-foot mega tree, and a new 80-inch animated pixel screen. Visit from December 1 to 29, Sunday through Thursday from 5:30-9 p.m. and Friday to Saturday from 5:30-10 p.m. Experience the magic at 18 Riverwood Landing—perfect for the whole family!
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Gaddy Family Christmas Light Extravaganza – Fayetteville
For over 30 years, the Gaddy family has delighted visitors with their enchanting drive-thru Christmas display. Featuring mesmerizing light tunnels, festive inflatables, and plenty of holiday cheer, this beloved tradition is a must-see! Open nightly from November 28 to January 1, from 6 to 10 p.m., the display is located at 898 Sandy Creek Rd. in Fayetteville. Gather your loved ones and experience the magic of the season!
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Lights on Linstone – Grayson
Celebrate the season at the Linstone Lane Christmas Light Display in Grayson, featuring thousands of twinkling lights that dance to festive music. Tune in to 89.7 FM to enjoy the synchronized soundtrack as you watch the lights come to life. Open nightly from December 1 to 31, 6-10 p.m., this charming display at 2250 Linstone Ln. is sure to brighten your holiday season!
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Portwood Family Christmas Lights – Hiram
Bring the holiday cheer to life at this spectacular display in Hiram, featuring 150,000 twinkling lights and 130 inflatables, including a towering 40-foot Santa Claus and a 30-foot Grinch! Enjoy a visit with Santa and contribute to the season of giving by donating non-perishable food items to support North Paulding Baptist Church’s Christmas Food Drive. Open nightly from November 30 to December 31, 6-10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6-11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Don’t miss this festive favorite at 20 Valley Dr.!
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Woodruff Family Christmas Lights – Powder Springs
Celebrate a decade of festive fun at the 10th annual Holiday Magic light show in Powder Springs! Featuring dancing Christmas lights, inflatables, and exciting new additions like two new songs, a second pixel tree, towering mega trees, and a flying Santa, this display is bigger and better than ever. Don’t miss the unique Purple Christmas – Tribute to Prince! Tune in to 102.1 FM to enjoy the synchronized music nightly from 6 p.m. to midnight, November 28 through January 10. Visit at 5268 Seamus Way and let the holiday magic brighten your season!
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Fox Family Christmas Lights – Roswell
Discover the wonder of the Clary Hill Court Holiday Light Show in Roswell, showcasing over 100,000 lights synchronized to music on 88.3 FM. This magical display includes handmade animated features, two snow machines, a memorial tree, and a craft station for ornaments and letters to Santa. On select nights, meet Santa and characters from Frozen! Running from November 28 to January 7, the event supports Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church. Visit 2994 Clary Hill Court for a festive celebration the whole family will love!
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Giganti-Deer Light Show – Stockbridge
Tune in to 98.1 FM for the synchronized music show, and on Saturdays, enjoy special events featuring appearances by Santa, The Grinch, and stunning special effects. Visit from December 6 to 26, Fridays from 6-9 p.m., Saturdays from 6-10 p.m., and nightly from December 23-26, 6-9 p.m. Don’t miss this festive display at 1408 Hemphill Rd.!
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A Whole LOT of Christmas – Stone Mountain
For over 30 years, this Stone Mountain family has transformed their home into a dazzling holiday wonderland! Explore themed sections like Snowflake Lane, Santa’s Workshop, Animated Gingerbread Lane, and a Disney-inspired display. Starting Thanksgiving weekend, Santa will be on his sleigh for photos every Saturday and Sunday through Christmas. The tradition also supports Make-A-Wish Georgia with donations collected since 2012. Visit nightly from November 30 to December 25, 5:15-11 p.m., at 1833 Smokerise Summit and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit!
Find more details here.
Ice Skating in Atlanta
Skate the Station – Atlantic Station
Glide into the holiday season at Skate the Station at Atlantic Station! Enjoy Atlanta’s largest outdoor ice-skating rink, surrounded by festive lights and holiday cheer. Perfect for a fun outing with family and friends, this seasonal favorite runs throughout the holidays. Don’t miss it!
Find more details here.
Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular – Buford
Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular at Lanier Islands invites guests to glide into the holiday spirit with an unforgettable ice-skating experience. Set against the backdrop of over 1.5 million twinkling lights, this winter wonderland combines the magic of the season with the thrill of skating. Visitors can lace up their skates and enjoy the rink surrounded by festive music, iconic holiday scenes, and picturesque views of Lake Lanier. For even more seasonal fun, Snow Island offers activities like snow tubing and carnival rides, making it a must-visit destination for family-friendly holiday entertainment. Celebrate the season with a skating adventure that captures the joy and sparkle of winter!
Find more details here.
Atlanta Christmas Markets
Atlanta Christkindl Market – Buckhead & Galleria in the Park
Discover the magic of the season at the Atlanta Christkindl Market! Inspired by traditional German holiday markets, this festive event offers handcrafted gifts, delicious European treats, and live entertainment. Stroll through the charming market stalls and experience the warmth and wonder of the holidays.
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Callanwolde Winter House – Atlanta
Celebrate the season at Winter House at Callanwolde, a festive holiday experience like no other! Explore the beautifully decorated historic mansion, enjoy seasonal activities, live entertainment, and sip on holiday-themed cocktails. Perfect for creating magical memories with family and friends!
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Georgia Festival of Trees at the Gas South Arena – Duluth
Get into the holiday spirit at the Georgia Festival of Trees, the jolliest event of the season! Wander through a forest of beautifully decorated trees available for auction, enjoy live entertainment, decorate sugar cookies, and marvel at the Gingerbread Competition and Christmas Brick Challenge. Proceeds support Street Grace and Atlanta Redemption Ink, two incredible nonprofits working to combat human trafficking and exploitation in Georgia. Celebrate the season while making a difference!
Find more details here.
HoliDAYS in Norcross – Downtown Norcross
Celebrate the magic of the season with HoliDAYS in Norcross! From November 16 to December 20, the city transforms into a festive wonderland with a holiday shopping open house, a town lighting celebration featuring cocoa and live music, and a charming Christmas Village with Victorian carolers. Enjoy carriage rides through sparkling streets, snap photos with Santa, and immerse yourself in holiday cheer at every turn!
Find more details here.
Back to Nature Holiday Market – Chattahoochee Nature Center – Roswell
Discover unique handmade treasures at this local artisan market! Shop eco-friendly candles, bath products, gourmet foods, and more. Free admission makes it the perfect way to find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list.
Find more details here.
Christmas Christmas Bars in Atlanta
Amore e Amore – Atlanta
Celebrate the holidays in Inman Park as Mama Gale and Professor Giovanni transform their Italian restaurant into a festive winter wonderland from November 6 to Christmas Eve. Enjoy a special prix fixe menu, themed cocktails, and the full à la carte dinner menu. Guests can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus on select dates, spreading holiday cheer for all ages. Visit for a magical dining experience adorned with vibrant seasonal decorations.
Find more details here.
Christmas at Dad’s – Atlanta
Step back in time this holiday season at Dad’s in Virginia Highland, where retro vibes meet festive cheer. The space transforms into a nostalgic haven, inspired by 80s and 90s basement hangouts, complete with vibrant holiday décor. Guests can sip on creative seasonal cocktails while enjoying laser light shows, a high-energy Christmas playlist featuring punk rock and hip-hop, and a photo booth perfect for capturing holiday memories.
Find more details here.
Holiday Social Bar – Atlanta
At Ponce City Market, the Holiday Social Bar offers a festive experience perfect for the season. Located just inside the tower lobby, this pop-up bar has been transformed into a whimsical wonderland bursting with over-the-top décor and a menu of holiday-inspired cocktails. Whether guests have been naughty or nice, there’s a drink on the list just for them. Starting November 15th, visitors can explore the festive creations and soak in the holiday spirit at The Roof.
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Little Christmas Spirit – Atlanta
Little Spirit in Inman Park transforms into “Little Christmas Spirit” for the holidays, offering a festive twist on its signature vibe. Known for its musical inspirations like David Bowie and Biggie Smalls, the cozy cocktail bar serves seasonal drinks such as hot toddies, boozy hot chocolate, and mulled wine. Celebrate the holidays with creative cocktails in this intimate setting.
Find more details here.
The Blind Elf – Atlanta
Starting November 28th, The Blind Elf returns, transforming the space into a festive wonderland with twinkling lights, holiday-themed cocktails, candy cane shots, and Instagram-worthy corners at every turn. Reservations are highly recommended to secure a spot at this can’t-miss seasonal experience.
Find more details here.
Tinsel Tavern – Battery Atlanta
Tinsel Tavern at The Battery Atlanta is your ultimate holiday hangout, blending festive cheer with a lively atmosphere. This pop-up bar is decked out in dazzling holiday décor and serves a creative menu of seasonal cocktails perfect for celebrating the most wonderful time of the year.
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Marietta Melt Yard – Marietta
Watch out for booby traps! This Marietta hotspot brings the magic of Home Alone and Home Alone 2 to life with interactive nods to iconic moments from the films. Returning favorites like the doorknob heater join new additions, including Marv’s unforgettable electrocution and tributes to New York City’s Plaza Hotel—complete with plenty of pigeons and birdseed. Plus, the pinball machine gallery offers a year-round chance to showcase your retro gaming skills. Perfect for families and fans alike!
Find more details here.
Atlanta Christmas Plays & Shows
Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker at Cobb Galleria – Atlanta
Experience the magic of the holiday season with the Atlanta Ballet’s enchanting production of The Nutcracker. Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, this timeless tale comes to life with stunning choreography, breathtaking sets, and dazzling costumes. Perfect for all ages, this cherished tradition captures the wonder of Clara’s journey to the Land of Sweets, making it a must-see performance that will leave you spellbound.
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Alliance Theater’s A Christmas Carol at Alliance Theater – Atlanta
Celebrate the season with the Alliance Theatre’s A Christmas Carol, a heartwarming retelling of Charles Dickens’s classic story. Featuring stunning visuals, live music, and unforgettable performances, this production captures the spirit of redemption and holiday cheer, making it a must-see tradition for all ages.
Find more details here.
Charles Dicken’s A Christmas Carol at the Atlanta Shakespeare Company – Atlanta
Step into the magic of the season with A Christmas Carol at the Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse! This immersive performance of Charles Dickens’ cherished classic combines masterful storytelling, stunning period costumes, and the cozy charm of live theater. Perfect for all ages, it’s a heartwarming tradition that captures the true spirit of the holidays. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience!
Find more details here.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at the Center for Puppetry Arts – Atlanta
Delight in the holiday magic with the Center for Puppetry Arts’ charming production of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™. This beloved tale comes to life through enchanting puppetry, colorful sets, and festive music, making it a joyful experience for audiences of all ages.
Find more details here.
Gift of the Magi 2.0 – Marietta’s Theater in the Square
Set against the backdrop of the 1950 Atlanta Transit Strike, The Gift of the Magi 2.0 reimagines O. Henry’s classic tale with a Southern twist. Trolley driver Jim and his wife, Della, strive to create a meaningful Christmas despite their modest means, while affluent couple Robert and Milly Harvey navigate their own holiday challenges. This heartwarming story explores love, sacrifice, and the spirit of giving, all through the lens of Atlanta’s rich history.
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Holiday Movies at the Strand at the Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theater – Marietta
Celebrate the holidays with classic movies at the Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre! Relive the hilarity of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, the timeless romance of White Christmas, and the heartfelt magic of It’s a Wonderful Life. Experience these beloved films on the big screen in the beautiful, historic setting of The Strand, making for a perfect holiday outing with family and friends.
Find more details here.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – Movie Theaters Near You (Nationwide)
Directed by Dallas Jenkins, the creator of The Chosen, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (2024) is a delightful holiday comedy-drama about the infamous Herdman siblings, known for their mischievous antics. When they unexpectedly take over the town’s beloved Christmas pageant, chaos ensues, but their involvement ultimately brings a heartfelt reminder of the true meaning of the season. Featuring a stellar cast, including Judy Greer, Pete Holmes, and Lauren Graham, this film is a perfect addition to your holiday watchlist. Currently playing in theaters, and is later expected to be available for rent on a variety of digital platforms including Prime Video, AppleTV and VUDU.
Find more details here.
Holiday Tours & Experiences
Holiday in the Park – Six Flags – Austell
Experience the magic of the season at Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Over Georgia! From dazzling light displays to festive shows and thrilling rides, this holiday celebration offers something for everyone. Create unforgettable memories with family and friends in a winter wonderland filled with cheer and excitement!
Find more details here.
Holiday Spirit – Oakland Cemetery – Atlanta
Celebrate the season at Holiday Spirit at Oakland Cemetery! Enjoy a unique holiday experience with beautifully decorated mausoleums, festive wreaths, and holiday-themed tours. Explore the historic grounds, shop for seasonal gifts, and embrace the magic of the holidays in a one-of-a-kind setting.
Find more details here.
Bethlehem Walk – Marietta
Step back in time and experience the story of Christmas at the Bethlehem Walk at Mountain View Church! This interactive, walk-through event brings the sights, sounds, and spirit of Bethlehem to life, complete with live actors, animals, and immersive scenes from the nativity. It’s a memorable holiday experience for the whole family!
Find more details here.
Plan Your Holiday in Atlanta
Atlanta is brimming with festive cheer during the Christmas season. From light displays to holiday markets and family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. Bookmark this guide and check back for updates as new events are announced. Have a favorite Atlanta holiday tradition? Share it in the comments below!
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