Now that Halloween is over, you have full permission to start watching Christmas movies, putting up twinkly lights + blasting “All I Want for Christmas is You.” Atlanta is arguably one of the best cities to be in during the holidays since there seems to be an endless number of festive events to attend. Check out some of our team’s personal favorites below.

  • Garden Lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden: Garden Lights starts November 16 and runs through January 11 this year, so you have plenty of time to go visit this dreamy set up. Enjoy a spiked hot chocolate while you stroll around annual favorites including the Ice Goddess, Tunnel of Light and Orchestral Orbs.
  • Ice Skating at Park Tavern: The Rink at Park Tavern opens on Thanksgiving Day this year so if you aren’t in a post-turkey coma, go enjoy seasonal cocktails and views of the Midtown skyline. If you are concerned you’ll do more falling than skating, don’t worry because observing + drinking is free (minus the cost of your cocktail, of course).
  • Vinings Jubilee Christmas Tree Lighting: Start your holiday celebration off right at Vinings Jubilee’s Annual Christmas Tree lighting on December 5. Perfect for all ages, the night will include ornament decorating, pictures with Santa and of course, delicious bites from Vinings Jubilee restaurants. What’s better than combining a tree lighting with shopping and great food?
  • Magical Nights of Lights at Lake Lanier Islands: While Lake Lanier might be a bit of a drive, it is more than worth it for this 7-mile stretch of light displays. After 26 years, Lake Lanier is still adding new lights each year. Come enjoy the lights, carnival rides and make s’mores around a bonfire during your visit.
  • Visit Miracle bars: Everyone’s favorite holiday tradition, Miracle, is back this year with three locations: Miracle on Monroe, Miracle on Highland and Bon Ton’s Sippin’ Santa. Opening on November 25, the Miracle bars are the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with drinks like Bad Santa and Yippie Ki Yay Mother F****r (Yes, we are team “Die Hard is a Christmas movie.”)
  • The Nutcracker at the Fox: After more than 500 performances, this year will be the Nutcracker’s last year at the Fox Theater. Seeing the Nutcracker has become an annual tradition for many families, so come witness history this year with the final year at one of Atlanta’s most historic venues.
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