Top Holiday Events Beyond Atlanta

Celebrate the holidays with a family-friendly getaway to one of these top destinations. For more holiday events and activities, read our list of 175+ Atlanta’s Top Holiday Events.

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A Mountain Getaway

If you’re looking for quality family time away from the crowds this fall and holiday season, come to the mountains! Atlanta’s most charming mountain getaway, Rabun County is just a short trip away. Enjoy the delights of autumn in the mountains along with quaint and traditional holiday experiences, all with fresh, mountain air and scenic views that are even more amazing during the cooler months. From thrilling outdoor activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing and camping, to the relaxing pleasures of cultural exploration, spas, golfing, shopping, wining and dining, there’s something for everyone in Rabun County!

Alpine Winter Lights

Helen, Georgia, also known as Alpine Helen, is a small Bavarian Village nestled in the Northeast Georgia Blue Ridge Mountain range and only 90 minutes north of Atlanta. Alpine Helen has quickly become known as one of the top Christmas towns to visit in the United States and voted one of the most charming towns in the world. During the Christmas Holiday Season, the town turns its amazing village into a Christmas wonderland. The first event to kick off the holidays is the Annual Lighting of the Village the day after Thanksgiving, from 5-7 p.m. at Riverside Park.

Winter Fun for All Ages

Lake Lanier offers a winter wonderland of snowy fun throughout the holiday season and chilly months. From snow tubing and ice skating to the Polar Bear Plunge — be sure to make plans to visit. Don’t miss the Lakeside Lights Spectacular presented by Margaritaville at Lanier Islands with gorgeous holiday lights, specialty food and drink and of course, visits with Santa Claus.

Family Farm Fun

Farmview Market, located in Madison, Georgia, is the destination for family fun! Offering Georgia’s best selection of local foods and gifts, there’s something for everyone. Stop by and enjoy the cafe with gourmet farm food fast, full-service butcher shop, ready-to-eat meals, local gifts and crafts, homemade desserts, ice cream, and more!

Holiday Illuminations

Christmas spirit shines brightest at Rock City’s Enchanted Garden of Lights! From Nov. 17-Jan. 6 (excluding Christmas Eve), journey through magical realms of winter wonder as over one million LED lights illuminate Lookout Mountain’s most iconic attraction. Grab a picture with Santa at the North Pole Village and decorate Christmas cookies with Mrs. Claus. Hot chocolate and other delicious treats make the nights even sweeter. Just a short drive up I-75!