200+ Best Atlanta Holiday Christmas Events & Things to Do (2023)

Atlanta has so many things to do  during the holidays from festive shows to Holiday Christmas events and Santa appearances. Check out our lists of Best Christmas Light and Tree Displays, Places to Meet Santa Around Atlanta, Best Ice Skating Rinks Around Atlanta, Best Things to Do for Hanukkah Fun in Atlanta, Cut Your Own Christmas Tree Farms, Favorite Holiday Craft Shows and Markets, Nutcracker Performances and Holiday Events Beyond Atlanta. These top-notch attractions and events are fun for the whole family.

If we missed your holiday event, please email calendar@atlantaparent.com.

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A Winter Wonderland

This December, celebrate Snow Days at Children’s Museum of Atlanta. The Museum will be decked out as a winter wonderland all month long as they welcome the season with a slew of super cool activities. Chill and enjoy stories in a giant igloo. Pull on your best skating socks and hit the “ice” at Sockefeller Plaza. Enjoy interactive seasonal fun in the Art Studio, at the Science Bar and on the CMA Stage! Take an afternoon break and get warmed up at Cocoa Mondays. All this, along with a variety of special performances, awaits at Snow Days at CMA!

Melissa Hollingsworth

A Flurry of Outdoor Fun

Trade in your flip-flops for snow boots this winter! License to Chill Snow Island and the Lakeside Lights Spectacular are open Nov. 11th-Feb. 25th. Take the crew snow tubing, get your skates on and practice figure eights at the ice rink, hop on the carnival rides, make snow angels, and warm up with s’mores and hot cocoa by the fire pits. The Lakeside Lights Spectacular will take you on a magical walk through an amazing lighting extravaganza with festive seasonal music, themed displays and light tunnels. Get outdoors for some fresh air and family-friendly fun at one of the best winter attractions in the southeast!

Light Up Your Imagination

Experience the magic of Atlanta holiday lights this season with IllumiNights at the Zoo presented by Georgia Power! Atlanta’s cherished holiday tradition is back, showcasing vistas of brilliantly illuminated wildlife and captivating sights that celebrate the wonders of nature. This year, the Zoo is introducing new lanterns and experiences, transforming the Zoo into a nighttime wonderland. Enjoy a mile-long stroll of stunning contemplation of the wildlife of our planet and creatures of our imagination, from luminous leopards to a towering fiery phoenix. Be a part of this Atlanta holiday lights phenomenon this holiday season! Tickets on sale now. Nov. 16-Jan. 14.

Celebrate the Season

Experience the magic of Winter WonderLights at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia winter light show presented by the UGA Office of the President. Follow a half-mile trail past shimmering snowflakes and through the new Winter Wondercave. Along the way, visitors can purchase marshmallows for roasting s’mores over an open fire, hot chocolate or cold refreshments. Come see why it was voted “Best Local Event” in Athens two years in a row! Select nights Nov. 22-Dec. 30; tickets selling quickly.

Clay Walker

Rare Puppets and the Return of Rudolph

The Center for Puppetry Arts is thrilled to announce the return of Rudolph the Red-Nosed  Reindeer™ live on stage! This faithful adaptation of the beloved 1964 stop-motion special speaks to the misfit in all of us. Plus, see the rare Santa and Rudolph puppets from the original Rankin & Bass TV production on display in the Festive Features Special Exhibition! Your all-inclusive ticket includes the performance, museum admission and a Create-A-Puppet Workshop™. Prices vary by date. Discounted performances are available in November. Performances Nov. 8-Dec. 31. Special exhibition Nov. 5-Dec. 31.

Dazzling Holiday Trees

Kick off your holiday season with the Georgia Festival of Trees! Sure to become a memorable family tradition for years to come, the festival features a forest of dazzling Christmas trees available for auction, live music and entertainment, a gingerbread contest, Christmas Brick Challenge, kids’ activities and games, boutique gift shops, food carts and more. All proceeds from the event and holiday tree sales will benefit Street Grace and Atlanta Redemption Ink, local nonprofits that support the festival’s mission to end human trafficking. Nov. 18-26 (closed for Thanksgiving Nov. 22-23).

Kim Kenney

Add Magic to Your Holiday

Let Atlanta Ballet transport you and your family into the magical world of The Nutcracker this holiday season. A winter wonderland awaits you, where falling snowflakes, twirling flowers and spinning stars come to life in this reimagined production, set to the iconic Tchaikovsky score played live by the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra. Travel with Marie and her Nutcracker Prince through a dreamlike world of delights that is nothing shy of extravagant. Make Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker part of your holiday tradition this year. On stage at the Cobb Energy Centre, Dec. 8-26.

Art and Holiday Cheer

Visit Callanwolde Fine Arts Center for Winter House 2023! On select dates from Nov. 25-Dec. 10, Callanwolde will be open to celebrate its winter tradition, filled with art and holiday cheer. Inside the 27,000 sq. ft. historic mansion, you’ll find art workshops, an artist market, story time sessions, cozy spots to enjoy hot chocolate and adult beverages, and more. Santa will also be there for photo sessions! Outside, gather by fire pits to roast s’mores. Presented by Audi Atlanta, entrance to Winter House 2023 is free; the pre-purchase of tickets for performances, events and workshops is required.

Delightful Musical Adventures

Featuring beloved characters from the classic Beatrix Potter tales, Into the Burrow: a Peter Rabbit™ Tale is a new musical at the Alliance Theatre that encourages us to acknowledge our fears and work together to overcome challenges. As the neighborly forest animals gather in the rabbit’s den — under Mr. McGregor’s Garden — for a surprise party for Peter, the animals soon realize Mr. McGregor has terrible plans for the land around Peter’s burrow. The biggest surprise of all — and for the first time ever — they’ve invited us to join them! Through December 23 on the Hertz Stage.

Overnight Frozen Fun and Visits with Santa!

Lakeside fun is year-round at Lanier Islands in Buford! This beautiful resort 45 minutes north of Atlanta hosts a myriad of holiday activities. Holiday packages are reinvented this year with new inclusions. Book an “Everything But Coal” package to make the most of the holiday season at the islands. This overnight experience includes deluxe accommodations at Legacy Lodge, tickets to Snow Island, a $50 voucher to Game Changer, an elf tuck-in with a bedtime story and cookies and milk with one of Santa’s elves, breakfast with Santa, and a keepsake bag and holiday book. Other winter-themed packages, including packages with tickets to License to Chill Snow Island, are available through February.

The Most Magical Time of the Year

Unwrap the magic of the season during HoliDAYS in Norcross! The City of Norcross is your festive headquarters with its dazzling lineup of holiday cheer. Kicking off with the Holiday Open House shopping extravaganza on November 11 and lasting through December 22, there’s something enchanting around every corner. Enjoy cocoa and s’mores at the town lighting celebration, and sing along with Victorian carolers at the Christmas Village. Take a whimsical carriage ride through sparkling streets, and be sure to keep an eye out for Santa, who’ll be popping up downtown to hear your Christmas wishes and snap some photos.

Kevin Lowery

A Holiday Tradition

Is it the stirring music, the gorgeous dancing, the stunning costuming and sets, or the fun of imagining yourself in the story? Roswell Dance Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker has been a holiday staple in north Atlanta for 35 years, delighting children and adults alike with the magical story of Clara and her handsome Nutcracker Prince. Year over year, this magical production does not disappoint! The two-week run features 10 performances including matinees, evenings and special events. See this timeless holiday tradition with the Flowers, Candy Canes, Arabian and more from Nov. 24-Dec. 3.

Twinkling Lights and Warm Vibes

Experience the holiday magic in Alpharetta, with a chance to win a getaway package worth $590! Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere with twinkling lights and warm vibes. Explore unique shops, indulge in delectable dining, and enjoy family-friendly activities like ice skating and immersive gaming. Extend the joy with a cozy stay at various hotels. For more details and to enter, visit awesomealpharetta.com. Contest runs until December 31.

The Most Sparkling Time of the Year

Glow Light Show & Festival is Atlanta’s brand-new premier holiday event! Running Nov. 17-Dec. 31 at Coolray Field in Lawrenceville, Glow has three different captivating experiences the whole family can enjoy. Drive through an immersive light show synchronized to music from the comfort of your car or climb aboard the Jolly Trolley, paired with hot cocoa and glowsticks to ride in style! Don’t forget to stroll through the holiday festival — free to enter this year — for an all-new experience of lights and bites featuring photo ops, food, rides and activities for young and old! Purchase tickets online.

Festive Fun

Holiday Tree Trail at Atlanta Botanical Garden, Gainesville. These six-foot Fraser Firs will be decorated by members, local businesses, families and organizations around the theme of “My Favorite Things.” Nov. 28-Dec. 31.

Holiday Extravaganza at Depot Park. The City of Kennesaw’s residents, neighborhoods, organizations, local businesses and more will decorate a holiday tree in celebration of the season. Nov. 29-Jan. 7.

Après-Ski at Buckhead Village. Enjoy a vintage 1950-80s “after-ski” culture with illuminated snow-capped trees, vintage snowshoes and sleds, photos with Santa, fireside moments, DJ performances on Saturday and more. Dec. 2, 9 and 16.

Holiday Tree Celebration at The Point. Spread holiday cheer by helping local charities deck the halls and voting for your favorite tree. Dec. 3-24.

Christmas on the Farm at Southern Belle Farm. Visit with Santa, drive pedal karts, go on a hayride or train ride, play games, see barnyard animals, and more. Through Dec. 17.

Festival of Trees at Snellville City Hall. Vote for your favorite decorated tree by donating money, canned or dried food or toys. Through Dec. 21.

Festival of Trees at Town Center at Cobb. View beautifully decorated trees and support local nonprofits lining the Belk Wing. Through Dec. 26.

Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Over Georgia. More than 1 million LED lights, dozens of Christmas trees, festive shows and culinary treats create the perfect winter wonderland atmosphere. Through Dec. 31.

Stone Mountain Christmas at Stone Mountain Park. Immerse yourself in holiday magic with a Christmas Drone Show, dazzling lights, festive music, spectacular shows, holiday characters and more. Through Jan. 2.

Winter Wonderland Spectacular at Illuminarium. This immersive holiday experience includes Christmas magic, a fantasyland of nutcrackers, Santa’s winter palace, glowing Northern Lights and more. Through Jan. 6.

Winter Wonderland: Celebrations & Traditions Around the World at Fernbank Museum. This annual tradition features dazzling trees and displays recognizing cultural celebrations, events and traditions around the world. Through Jan. 7.

Duluth Festival of Trees at Southeastern Railway Museum. Celebrate the season with festive trees. Through Jan. 13.

Holiday Model Trains at Atlanta Botanical Garden. This delightful holiday display runs day and night on the Alston Overlook. Through Jan. 14.

Special Events

Movies at The Strand at Strand Theatre. Watch holiday classics on this theatre’s big screen, and come early for a free organ pre-show before the movie. Nov. 29-30 and Dec. 19.

Holiday Spirit at Oakland Cemetery. Get in the seasonal spirit with photos with Santa, decorated mausoleums, live holiday music, crafts and more. Dec. 2-3.

Home for the Holidays at The Wren’s Nest. See the historic home of author Joel Chandler Harris decorated for the holidays with these guided tours and a storytelling performance. Dec. 2, 9 and 16.

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas at Atlanta Symphony Hall. The orchestra performs a festive mix of carols, along with the score of the film “The Snowman” and the narration of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.” Dec. 3.

All Aboard for Holiday Fun at The Southern Museum. Come in PJs to watch the “Polar Express,” see a winter-themed model train layout and more holiday activities. Dec. 9.

Snow Day at Alpharetta Community Center. Play in the frosty snow, take a picture in front of the Christmas tree, listen to joyful tunes, make holiday crafts and more. Dec. 9.

Swim with the Grinch at Cherokee County Aquatic Center. Help decorate the in-water holiday tree, play pool games, create art, and take photos with the Grinch. Dec. 9.

Li’l Shabbat: Hanukkah Around the World at The Davis Academy. Get ready for Chanukah with a tour around the world to learn how families in different countries celebrate Hanukkah. Dec. 9.

Enchanted Woodland Wonders at Chattahoochee Nature Center. This Family Fun Day features live reindeer, seasonal festivities, crafts, lawn games, vendors and more. Dec. 10.

Celebrations in Light: Hanukkah at Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Celebrate Hanukkah with a special program. Dec. 10.

A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage at Atlanta Symphony Hall. Classic animated special “A Charlie Brown Christmas” comes to life with sing-a-long songs and carols. Dec. 13.

Bonfire + Marshmallow Roast on the Square at Decatur Square. Roast a marshmallow around a roaring bonfire to warm up this season. Dec. 14.

Holidays on the Home Front at Pickett’s Mill Battlefield Historic Site. Experience holiday decorating and festivities of the past. Dec. 16.

The Holiday: Live in Concert at Atlanta Symphony Hall. Watch “The Holiday” set to a live score performed by a full concert orchestra. Dec. 16-17.

Santa vs. Grinch Celebrity Charity Basketball Game at Forbes Arena. Witness the ultimate  showdown between jolly Santa Claus and the mischievous Grinch at this thrilling basketball game benefitting Toys for Tots. Dec. 17.

Tree Lightings

Christmas Tree Lighting & Santa’s Arrival at Glover Park. Festivities includes performances by local school and church choirs, visits from Santa and the lighting of the Marietta Christmas tree. Nov. 30.

Holiday Celebration in Norcross. The City of Norcross celebrates Christmas with activities, including a tree lighting, choirs singing carols and more. Dec. 1.

Deck the Hall in Duluth. See the tree lighting, visit with Santa, and enjoy tons of kids’ activities, including a crafts, a snow playground and more. Dec. 2.

Menorah Lightings

Sparkle Sandy Springs at City Green. Watch a traditional menorah lighting as part of Sandy Springs’ annual event, which also has music, gift market and snow. Dec. 3.

Holiday on the Town at Town Brookhaven. Enjoy a festive evening with a tree lighting, menorah lighting, Santa visits, live reindeer, holiday characters, performances and more. Dec. 7.

Chanukah Menorah Lighting at Town Green Stage. Join Chabad and the City of Alpharetta at this annual lighting. Dec. 7.

Menorah Lighting at Marietta Square. Meet at the Glover Park stage for a celebration including holiday music, hot chocolate, doughnuts and Rabbi Joseph Prass from Congregation Ner Tamid. Dec. 10.

JCC Hanukkah Celebration at MJCCA Zaban Park. Enjoy a menorah lighting, Hanukkah songs and performances. Dec. 12.

Menorah Lighting at Logan Farm Park. Celebrate Hanukkah at this annual lighting. Dec. 12.

Menorah Lighting in Kennesaw. See the lighting of Kennesaw’s Menorah. Dec. 13.

On Stage

A Christmas Story at Balzer Theater at Herren’s. Based on the hit movie, Theatrical Outfit performs this classic as all 9-year-old Ralphie Parker wants is a Red Ryder air rifle for Christmas! Nov. 29-Dec. 24.

It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play at Stage Door Theatre. This beloved holiday classic comes to life as a live 1940s radio broadcast with a delightful ensemble cast. Dec. 1-17.

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas at Aurora Theatre. Piccadilly Puppets presents the classic holiday poem through the eyes of a mouse who was an eyewitness to the whole affair. Dec. 2.

Madeline’s Christmas at Horizon Theatre. When Madeline and her friends come down with
the flu, they all wonder how Christmas will be celebrated. But with the arrival of a mysterious stranger, they get a holiday adventure beyond their wildest dreams! Dec. 2-31.

Holiday Juggling Show at Aurora Theatre. This comic juggling show celebrates holiday traditions around the world. Dec. 9.

The Gift of the Magi 2.0 at Marietta’s Theatre in the Square. Jim, an Atlanta streetcar driver, struggles to make ends meet during the holiday season, and he goes to great lengths to buy a gift for his wife Della. Through Dec. 10.

Roswell Winter Puppet Series at Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Watch two holiday-themed puppet performances: “North Pole Fa-La-La-La Follies” and “Trouble in Toyland.” Dec. 14-16 and 20-22.

Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer Jr. The Musical at The Art Place. The British Academy of Performing Arts presents this holiday tale about the reindeer with a blinking beacon. Dec. 16-17.

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas at Legacy Theatre. Veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route to their Christmas show at a Vermont lodge in this musical. Through Dec. 17.

Christmas Belles at OnStage Atlanta. It’s Christmas-time in the small town of Fayro, Texas, but the Futrelle sisters are not feeling festive in this hilarious, misadventure-filled play. Through Dec. 17.

Trouble in Toyland at Aurora Theatre. It’s Christmas Eve, but the toys aren’t finished, the elves are on strike, Santa’s lost his laugh and Rudolph has a runny nose. How will Christmas be saved? Dec. 23.

A Very Electric Christmas at Gas South Theater. Presented by Lightwire Theater, brighten your holidays with this story following young bird Max’s adventure through the North Pole. Dec. 23.

Christmas Canteen at Aurora Theatre. This holiday tradition shows the magic of Christmas with songs, comic sketches and trips down memory lane. Through Dec. 23.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at Center for Puppetry Arts. Based on the beloved 1964 stop-motion special, see Rudolph and his misfit friends learn that it’s okay for them to be exactly who they are. Through Dec. 31.

For the Scrooge

A Christmas Carol: A One Man OSA Special Event at OnStage Atlanta. This one-man show was adapted by and stars Stuart W. Schleuse. Nov. 30-Dec. 16.

A Christmas Carol at Woodstock Arts. Celebrate the holidays with this Dickens classic where a miser learns the error of his ways. Dec. 1-24.

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at Shakespeare Tavern. On a fateful Christmas Eve, Scrooge will learn the meaning of Christmas spirit with song and holiday cheer. Dec. 2-23.

A Christmas Carol at Aurora Theatre. Be immersed in this holiday classic told as a one-man show. Dec. 8-23.

Invasion: Christmas Carol at Dad’s Garage. This hilarious twist on the classic story features a new, unexpected invader every night, giving Scrooge’s past, present and future different outcomes each showing. Dec. 9, 16 and 24.

A Christmas Carol at Gas South Theater. Presented by Storybook Theater, this play recounts the story of miserly Ebenezer Scrooge who is visited by ghosts. Dec. 19-22.

A Christmas Carol at Alliance Theatre. This adaptation of the famous story will include a reimagined set design and striking costumes. Through Dec. 24.

Music and Concerts

3 Redneck Tenors Christmas SPEC-TAC-YULE-AR at Strand Theatre. These singing angels have packed their festive mullets to share a magical, musical Christmas journey. Dec. 1.

Home for the Holidays with the Alpharetta Symphony Orchestra at Milton Community Church. The Alpharetta Symphony Orchestra and Alpharetta First United Methodist Church chorus present your favorite holiday music. Dec. 1.

A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols at Glenn Memorial Auditorium. This candlelit choral concert heralds the Christmas season with the Emory Concert Choir and University Chorus. Dec. 1-2.

Georgia Symphony Orchestra Presents Holiday Pops at Marietta Performing Arts Center. Sing along to holiday favorites, and a special guest in a red suit may appear! Dec. 2.

Strand Ole Opry’s Country Christmas at Strand Theatre. A bluegrass concert of holiday music featuring merry singers and traditional southern storytellers. Dec. 2.

Carols in the Garden at Atlanta Botanical Garden. Enjoy festive holiday music sung by carolers The Tinseltones. Dec. 2, 9 and 16.

Annual Holiday Gala at Rialto Center for the Arts. Presented by Georgia State University School of Music, this concert brings together talented student and faculty performers in a joyful holiday celebration. Dec. 3.

Carols by Candlelight at First Baptist Church Marietta. Kick off the Christmas season with this concert. Dec. 3-4.

Sarah Brightman: A Christmas Symphony at Atlanta Symphony Hall. This magical holiday show features Sarah Brightman’s holiday classics and greatest hits. Dec. 6.

Christmas with Atlanta Master Chorale at Schwartz Center for Performing Arts. Enjoy music of joy, peace, light and love. Dec. 8-10.

Spivey Hall Children’s Choir Holiday Concert at Clayton State University. This children’s choir joyfully welcomes the holiday season featuring sing-a-longs. Dec. 8-10.

The Music Class Annual Holiday Ball at Temple Emanuel. Enjoy a magical and musical night on the town with for the entire family from Sentimental Journey Orchestra, an 18-piece big band playing Music Class tunes and holiday favorites. Dec. 9.

Christmas with the ASO at Atlanta Symphony Hall. Join the Orchestra and Chorus for Christmas carols and hymns. Dec. 9-10.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve at Gas South Arena. Rock out this holiday season with the best of TSO. Dec. 10.

Santa’s Favorite Chamber Music at Michael C. Carlos Museum’s Ackerman Hall. Help welcome Old Saint Nick as he shares some of his favorite classical music pieces and leads a holiday sing-a-long. Dec. 10.

Candlelight: Holiday Special Featuring “The Nutcracker” and More at Guardian Works. Enjoy a night of delightful holiday music from the Listeso String Quartet. Dec. 13 and 20.

Handel’s Messiah at Atlanta Symphony Hall. This special performance will feature the Orchestra and the Chamber Chorus with Handel’s celebrated “Messiah.” Dec. 14-15.

Holiday Concert at Northside Drive Baptist Church. The Atlanta Boy Choir and the Alumni Men’s Choir spread holiday cheer at this concert. Dec. 15.

A Christmas Tradition at Strand Theatre. This holiday revue features costumed singers and dancers performing traditional and funky Christmas favorites. Dec. 15-23.

A Kids’ Christmas at Johns Creek United Methodist Church. As Santa’s helpers, Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra will play seasonal favorites to celebrate the holidays at this sensory-friendly concert. Dec. 16.

Christmas Pops at Johns Creek United Methodist Church. Comedic songstress Nancy Gaddy will leave you “laughing all the way” in this festive Christmas concert. Dec. 16.

Atlanta Vocal Project’s Ringin’ in the Holidays at Roswell Cultural Arts Center. This a cappella performance shows off the spirit of the holidays. Dec. 16.

Joe Gransden Jazz Milestones: A Very Jazzy Christmas at Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Swing into the holidays with these sparkling arrangements of holiday classics. Dec. 17.

Holiday Pops at Gas South Theater. The Gwinnett Symphony Orchestra and Chorus present a concert of winter and holiday music. Dec. 18.

Samara Joy: A Joyful Holiday featuring The McLendon Family at Atlanta Symphony Hall. Samara Joy, one of jazz’s newest stars, celebrates the holidays with her delightful interpretations of holiday classics. Dec. 19.

Celtic Woman: Christmas Symphony Tour at Atlanta Symphony Hall. Celebrate the holidays with the Irish singing sensation Celtic Woman and a full orchestra. Dec. 21-22.

Motown Christmas at Aurora Theatre. This cabaret-style show features music, memories and Motown and holiday classics. Dec. 21-23.

Sounds of the Season at Atlanta Symphony Hall. This high-energy concert features the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and guest vocalists. Dec. 23.

The Nativity

Bethlehem Walk at Mountain View United Methodist Church. Walk through the streets of Bethlehem to haggle with shopkeepers, sign the census, sample hot cider, and find God’s most precious gift. Dec. 2-4.

Black Nativity: A Gospel Christmas Musical Experience at Ferst Center for the Arts. See the journey of Mary and Joseph as they travel to Bethlehem set to a repertoire of old-fashioned spirituals. Dec. 7-17.

Walk Through Bethlehem at Simpsonwood Park. Walk through this outdoor nativity scene with Roman guards, shopkeepers and live animals. Dec. 8-10.

Drive-Thru Christmas Pageant at Trinity Presbyterian Church. Watch the Christmas story come to life as children recreate familiar scenes from Bethlehem. Dec. 10.

Christmas Spectacular at Free Chapel Gainesville. This live production features Christmas musical favorites, live animals and stunning visual effects to view the story of Christ. Dec. 15-17.

Beyond Atlanta

Also, check out these Top Holiday Events Beyond Atlanta.

Victorian Christmas at Hardman Farm Historic Site. See the mansion dressed in period holiday décor, and learn about Victorian Christmas traditions from the 1870s. Dec. 1-2, 8-9 and 15-16.

Christmas Traditions House Tour at Jarrell Plantation State Historic Site. Take a  guided tour to learn about the history of Christmas traditions from tree decorating to singing carols. Dec. 2-3, 8-10 and 15-16.

Festival of Trees at Museum of Aviation. Celebrate the holidays with this festive tree display, and cast a vote for your favorite tree. Dec. 2-22.

Mountain Country Christmas in Lights at Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. This fairground transforms into a spectacular, magical holiday light show with Christmas music, arts and crafts, food, fun, entertainment, photo opportunities and a visit with Santa. Through Dec. 23.

Holiday Special Rides at Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. This festive one- or four-hour train ride includes holiday music, “The Night Before Christmas” storytelling and a chance to see Santa Claus. Through Dec. 24.

The Polar Express Train Ride at Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. This 1¼ hour round-trip excursion features the motion picture soundtrack, warm cocoa, the magical story and Santa Claus as you travel to the North Pole. Through Dec. 31.

Christmas Tea at Tennessee Valley Railroad. Enjoy a festive holiday tea with decorations and delicious bites. Through Dec. 31.

Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens. Drive through more than eight million twinkling lights and a garden decorated for the season. Through Jan. 1.

Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge. This holiday celebration is an immersive winter wonderland with pretty snow globes, crafts, visits with Santa, a Frosty Fest Family Dance Party and more. Through Jan. 2.

Enchanted Garden of Lights at Rock City. Walk through this winter wonderland with the lighted Grand Corridor in Yule Town, Arctic Kingdom and Magic Forest. Through Jan. 6.

Christmas at Biltmore at Biltmore. During the day, see the elegant rooms of Biltmore House shimmer with lights and décor, and at night, enjoy candlelight, glowing fireplaces and live music. Through Jan. 7.

Winter WonderLights at State Botanical Garden of Georgia. This walk-thru light show extravaganza features 11 illuminated displays, including a multi-colored light tunnel. Through Jan. 7.

Past events:

Play & Dance Into the Holidays at Sloomoo Institute. Enjoy an all-day extravaganza with inspired slime vats, coloring pages, beautiful ballerinas and more inspired by Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker. Nov. 19.

Holiday Tree Lighting at Atlanta History Center. Kick off the holiday season by watching this 50-foot Christmas tree be lit, listening to music, taking photos with Santa, playing children’s activities and more. Nov. 17.

Hamilton Tree Lighting at The Hamilton Alpharetta. Enjoy hot cocktails, holiday crafted snacks and live music as the Christmas tree is lit. Nov. 17.

North Point Celebrates Santa at North Point Mall. Get in the holiday spirit with a visit with Santa, train rides, live music and a tree lighting. Nov. 18.

Jingle Mingle at Historic Downtown Gainesville Square. Bask in the holiday spirit with live music, carriage rides, kiddie train rides, Santa, the lighting of the chicken and more. Nov. 18.

City of Alpharetta Tree Lighting at Town Green Stage. Visit downtown Alpharetta for a 50-foot tree lighting, live music, snow flurries, Santa visits and more. Nov. 18.

The Lighting of Avalon at Avalon. Get in the holiday spirit with a magnificent tree lighting, festive music and an appearance from Old Saint Nick. Nov. 19.

Roswell Youth Theatre Presents Elf The Musical JR at Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Buddy, who’s been raised by one of Santa’s elves, travels to New York City to find his birth father in this musical based on the movie. Nov. 17-18.

Once Upon A Holiday at Computer Museum of America. Presented by SIDEWAYS Contemporary Dance Company, follow Mrs. Claus down the rabbit hole in this festive take on Alice in Wonderland. Nov. 18-19.

A Very Grinchy Christmas at Gas South Theater. Dr. Seuss’ classic children’s story meets “The Nutcracker” in this special performance from Southern Ballet Theatre. Nov. 18-19.

Georgia Festival of Trees at Georgia World Congress Center. This holiday event features dazzling holiday trees, a gingerbread house competition, photos with Santa, games, cookie decorating and more. Through Nov. 26.

Home Alone: Live in Concert at Atlanta Symphony Hall. A holiday favorite, watch this beloved comedy classic set to a live score from the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Nov. 25-26.

Santa on the Square at Downtown Newnan. Watch Santa arrive in a fire truck to light the Christmas tree before your visit. Nov. 24.

Christmas Tree Lighting at Snellville Towne Green. Watch the Lighted Christmas Parade from Wisteria Plaza to the Towne Green, along with a tree lighting, cookie decorating, s’mores and more. Nov. 25.

Tree Lighting at The Plaza at Battery Atlanta. Watch the tree lighting, and after, bring a blanket or lawn chair to view “Abominable.” Nov. 25.

Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting at Downtown Loganville. This annual parade kicks off the holiday season, and following the parade, Santa will light the city’s Christmas tree. Nov. 25.

Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith Christmas Tour at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. This seasonal show features selections from the artists’ holiday albums. Nov. 26.