Holiday Happenings- Metro Atlanta

Looking for something to do to get into the holiday spirit around the Metro area, here are a few holiday happenings that are sure to get you in that festive mood:

Atlanta Christkindl Market - Lawrenceville

After 8 years in Buckhead this Bavarian-inspired Christmas market has moved to a new bigger location this year.

In Downtown Lawrenceville, 210 Luckie St. Nov 28th-Dec 24th. Featuring dozens of German-style vendor stalls selling handmade ornaments, wooden toys, crafts, seasonal sweets.

German food & drinks (think glühwein / mulled wine, sausages, pretzels) plus local artisan goods.

With festive decor, string lights, a seasonal holiday atmosphere.

Holiday Lights

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden - Atlanta

One of the most immersive light-shows of the season: the Botanical Garden transforms into a winter wonderland every evening from Nov 15, 2025 through Jan 11, 2026. With gorgeous photo-ops, new installations (“Nature’s Wonders” theme), synchronized light-and-sound experiences, and the ability to stroll at your own pace. Buy tickets in advance because this event books up. Premium packages give you extras like express entry and a drink ticket.

Life University – “Lights of Life” -Marietta

Lights of Life transforms the campus of Life University into a festive wonderland each holiday season. With over one million LED bulbs lighting up the 110-acre campus.  Drive-through 1.5 miles of lights. Featuring rain rides, a petting zoo, pony rides, and seasonal concessions.

Ashebrooke Subdivision- Cumming

Located near the intersection of Kelly Mill Road & Bethelview Road in Cumming, this subdivision is a major holiday destination. In recent years up to 90% of homes participate, making it a near-neighborhood-wide light show. Drive-through or walk, live-nativity scene, hot cocoa, luminarias on special evenings.

Hillbrooke-Johns Creek

Residents on Reddit and community boards name Hillbrooke as one of the “go-to” suburbs for Christmas lights. Lots of photo-worthy yards

Christmas on Amberwood- Lawrenceville

While you are out at Chrisykindl market why not stay until it gets dark. A neighborhood in Lawrenceville known for its festive stretch of homes doing big holiday décor.

Avondale Estates- Decatur

A quaint, walkable small-town feel suburb where many homes light up for the season. Locals mention it as one of the gems. Perfect for a stroll, with cafés nearby, smaller crowds, and a charming atmosphere

Ice Skating

Skate the Station -Atlantic Station

One of Atlanta’s largest outdoor seasonal ice rinks

With festive lights, themed nights (for example past years included UgIy Sweater nights, 90s nights) and

Free 2-hour parking at Atlantic Station.

Avalon on Ice -  Alpharetta

A “Rockefeller-inspired” rink. With plenty of nearby dining/shopping options and a hot cocoa food truck. The 2025 skating season runs from  Nov 23 – Jan 19. Tip: Book your time slot in advance (walk‐ups possible but not guaranteed).

The Rink at Park Tavern -Piedmont Park

A cozy, scenic rink setting with Midtown skyline views, fire pits, heated patios, seasonal drinks.

Public sessions, and  “Adults Only” skate times after ~8:30 p.m