Atlanta, GA, October 19, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta is set to host a variety of festive holiday events this season, featuring activities like Christmas light displays, ice skating, and theatrical performances. Highlights include the IllumiNights at the Zoo, A Christmas Carol at the Alliance Theatre, and the Holidays at Georgia Aquarium. Families can enjoy unique experiences like the Rudolph exhibition and The Nutcracker ballet. The city will be aglow with celebrations, providing endless opportunities for residents and visitors to engage in the holiday spirit.
Atlanta will host a variety of festive holiday events throughout the 2025 season, bringing joy and cheer to residents and visitors alike. The city will feature numerous activities, including Christmas light displays, ice skating rinks, Santa appearances, and Hanukkah celebrations, providing ample opportunities for families and individuals to engage in the holiday spirit.
One of the standout attractions is IllumiNights at the Zoo, presented by Georgia Power, which will feature stunning wildlife illuminations from November 14 to January 19. Attendees can enjoy a mesmerizing experience as they walk through the zoo surrounded by dazzling lights representing various animals.
The beloved classic, A Christmas Carol, returns to the Alliance Theatre from November 9 to December 24, showcasing an all-star cast that brings Charles Dickens’ timeless story to life with a vibrant stage presence.
Additionally, the Holidays at Georgia Aquarium will run from November 15 to January 2. This event includes a 40-foot live tree, festive songs, and exciting dolphin and sea lion shows that are sure to capture the attention of all attendees.
The Georgia Festival of Trees will take place from November 23 to December 1, featuring decorated Christmas trees, lively music, and a thrilling gingerbread competition that invites community participation and creativity.
For families looking for unique experiences, the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer exhibition will be held at the Center for Puppetry Arts from November 14 to December 29, allowing children to enjoy this holiday favorite through interactive puppetry.
The Nutcracker, presented by the Atlanta Ballet, will grace the stage from December 7 to 26, offering a modern twist with a high-tech stage design that enhances the traditional ballet experience.
If outdoor fun is preferred, Christmas at Lanier Islands will run from November 30 to December 22, featuring activities such as snow tubing, ice skating, and even breakfast with Santa, making it an ideal destination for wintertime fun.
The Winter WonderLights show at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia is scheduled for select nights from November 24 to January 5, offering a magical display of lights in a beautiful garden setting.
Downtown Acworth will host a Christmas celebration on December 7, featuring visits from Santa and opportunities for holiday shopping. Meanwhile, HoliDAYS in Norcross will extend from November 16 to December 20, offering various holiday-themed activities for all ages.
Roswell, Georgia, will also celebrate the season with multiple events, including a tree lighting on December 6 and the Christkindl Market from November 22 to December 22, replicating the festive spirit of a traditional European market.
Art enthusiasts can attend the Winter House events at Callanwolde Fine Arts Center from November 30 to December 15, which include art workshops alongside festive cheer. Margaritaville will become a winter wonderland starting November 16, featuring snow tubing and twinkling lights.
The College Football Hall of Fame will be adorned with festive decorations and host events celebrating bowl season from December 1 to 24. In addition, the Nutcracker performance by the Roswell Dance Theatre will run from November 29 to December 8.
The holiday season will also feature various shows such as Madeline’s Christmas at Horizon Theatre and LEGO Discovery Center’s Holiday Bricktacular through December 31. Stone Mountain Park will present Stone Mountain Christmas running until January 5, adding to the holiday offerings in the area.
Other highlights include Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Over Georgia and annual holiday performances at theaters around Atlanta. A multitude of holiday markets and festive events, including the Krog Holiday Market and the ATL Holiday Market on December 15, will be available for those seeking unique gifts and handmade crafts.
With such a vibrant array of holiday offerings, Atlanta is well-equipped to cater to families and individuals craving seasonal cheer and memorable experiences this holiday season.
FAQ
- What events are happening at the Georgia Aquarium during the holidays?
Holidays at Georgia Aquarium runs from November 15 to January 2, featuring a 40-foot live tree, festive songs, and dolphin/sea lion shows.
- When is A Christmas Carol showing at the Alliance Theatre?
A Christmas Carol returns to the Alliance Theatre from November 9 to December 24 with an all-star cast.
- What special exhibition is available at the Center for Puppetry Arts?
The Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer exhibition takes place at the Center for Puppetry Arts from November 14 to December 29.
- Where can I experience Christmas at Lanier Islands?
Christmas at Lanier Islands runs from November 30 to December 22, offering snow tubing, ice skating, and breakfast with Santa.
- What shows are scheduled during the holiday season?
The holiday season features shows such as Madeline’s Christmas at Horizon Theatre and LEGO Discovery Center’s Holiday Bricktacular through December 31.
Key Features Overview
| Event | Date | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| IllumiNights at the Zoo | Nov. 14 – Jan. 19 | Zoo Atlanta | Wildlife illuminations |
| A Christmas Carol | Nov. 9 – Dec. 24 | Alliance Theatre | All-star cast |
| Holidays at Georgia Aquarium | Nov. 15 – Jan. 2 | Georgia Aquarium | 40-foot tree, dolphin shows |
| Georgia Festival of Trees | Nov. 23 – Dec. 1 | Location TBA | Decorated trees, live music |
| Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer | Nov. 14 – Dec. 29 | Center for Puppetry Arts | Puppet exhibition |
| The Nutcracker | Dec. 7 – 26 | Atlanta Ballet | High-tech stage |
| Christmas at Lanier Islands | Nov. 30 – Dec. 22 | Lanier Islands | Snow tubing, breakfast with Santa |
| Winter WonderLights | Nov. 24 – Jan. 5 | State Botanical Garden | Magical light display |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Creative Loafing: Atlanta Vocal Project
- Atlanta Parent: Holiday Events
- Broadway World: Spivey Hall Children’s Choir Program
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Weekend Events
- Saporta Report: CAU Choir Goes Viral
- Wikipedia: Atlanta
- Google Search: Atlanta holiday events
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta
- Google News: Atlanta news
- Google Scholar: Atlanta events
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
