Atlanta, GA, December 24, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta is filled with holiday events that promote celebration and togetherness for both residents and visitors. Attractions include festive lights, ice skating rinks, and diverse performances. Life coaches encourage individuals to embrace the season for personal growth. Unique experiences range from handcrafted lanterns at the zoo to family-friendly activities at museums and a special tree lighting in Alpharetta. With a variety of cultural offerings, including the Nutcracker and seasonal performances, Atlanta ensures fun for all during this joyous time.
Atlanta is brimming with festive holiday events aimed at encouraging celebration and togetherness during this joyful season. Various attractions and activities are set to take place across the city, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can partake in the holiday spirit.
While many find delight in the holiday season, some individuals may experience feelings of loneliness when alone during this time. To address this, certified Life Coaches encourage people to embrace the holidays as an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. This sentiment underlines the spirit of togetherness that is central to many of Atlanta’s holiday offerings.
The ATL Live program showcases a multitude of exciting events and experiences around the city. Key attractions include stunning Christmas lights, impressive tree displays, engaging Santa appearances, and fun-filled ice skating rinks. The diversity of celebrations also encompasses Hanukkah festivities, craft shows, and traditional performances like the beloved Nutcracker.
IllumiNights at the Zoo returns this season, running from November 21 to January 18, featuring captivating handcrafted lanterns. For those who enjoy ice skating, Skate City Springs offers a charming experience from November 14 to January 19, complete with themed nights and complimentary cocoa nights.
The Georgia Aquarium will host its annual Holidays event from November 14 to January 4, featuring holiday displays, live music, and opportunities for festive photos with Santa. The Center for Puppetry Arts presents “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” running from November 12 to December 28, enchanting audiences with a classic holiday story.
The Sloomoo Institute introduces a cozy holiday experience from November 16 to December 31, inviting participants to enjoy a holiday-themed slime experience. In Downtown Alpharetta, a special tree lighting event will take place on November 22, featuring live music, marshmallow roasting, and a guest appearance by Santa Claus.
Families will find excitement at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta during Snow Days, from December 4 to 30, offering winter-themed hands-on activities. Lanier Islands Resort transforms into a festive winter retreat with dazzling displays and a Breakfast with Santa event from November 15 to January 4.
The State Botanical Garden of Georgia will be illuminated for the Winter WonderLights event from November 21 to December 30, featuring a magical half-mile walking trail adorned with sparkling holiday lights. Additionally, historical Downtown Acworth prepares for Christmas celebrations on December 6.
For those looking for family-friendly options, HoliDAYS In Norcross runs from November 15 to December 19, providing shopping and cocoa experiences. Celebration at the Station returns to Atlantic Station, offering a variety of holiday activities for all ages.
Artistic performances are also a highlight of the season, with the Nutcracker production by Roswell Dance Theatre running from November 28 to December 7. The Winter House 2025 at the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center promises festive activities from November 29 to December 14. Additionally, numerous holiday performances such as A Christmas Carol, Elf, and live concerts featuring local artists will fill Atlanta’s theaters, rounding out an exciting holiday season.
Atlanta’s diverse holiday events promote community spirit and tradition while ensuring that there are numerous opportunities for family fun throughout the season.
FAQ
What are some of the holiday attractions in Atlanta?
When does IllumiNights at the Zoo occur?
What special events are offered for families during the holidays?
Key Features of Atlanta’s Holiday Events
| Event | Date | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| IllumiNights at the Zoo | Nov 21 – Jan 18 | Handcrafted lanterns |
| Skate City Springs | Nov 14 – Jan 19 | Themed nights & Free cocoa nights |
| Holidays at Georgia Aquarium | Nov 14 – Jan 4 | Live music & Santa photo opportunities |
| Children’s Museum of Atlanta Snow Days | Dec 4 – 30 | Winter-themed activities |
| Winter WonderLights | Nov 21 – Dec 30 | Half-mile light trail |
| Nutcracker Performance | Nov 28 – Dec 7 | Classic holiday ballet |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Heartwarming Holiday Reunions at Atlanta Airport
67-Year-Old Woman Shot in Southeast Atlanta
Authorities Warn of Dangerous Holiday Travel in Atlanta
Atlanta Joins Top Winter Travel Destinations
Cobb County Elementary Students Enjoy Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker
Beverly Hills Celebrates Holiday Season with Community Events
Atlanta Embraces Holiday Baking Season with Top Bakeries
Lawrenceville Hosts Record Crowds at Atlanta Christkindl Market
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Anticipates Surge in Holiday Travelers
Atlanta Anticipates Holiday Travel Surge
Additional Resources
- Atlanta Parent: Holiday Christmas Events in Atlanta
- Discover Atlanta: Ultimate Guide to the Holidays in Atlanta
- CBS News: Warrick Dunn Surprises Metro Atlanta Single Mom with Home
- Rough Draft Atlanta: Christmas Events in Atlanta
- Atlanta News First: Warrick Dunn Gives Metro Atlanta Single Mother New Home
- Wikipedia: Christmas in the United States
- Google Search: Christmas events in Atlanta
- Google Scholar: Holiday celebrations in Atlanta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Christmas
- Google News: Atlanta holiday 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.
