Athens Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Athens and surrounding areas
Athens comes alive for the holiday season with festive events and Christmas lights across the State Botanical Garden and downtown's College Avenue where holiday attractions and winter festivals highlight local arts and music. Events like Winter WonderLights and The Nutcracker bring seasonal performances and family-focused entertainment. Wander lit streets, browse holiday markets, and join activities that blend campus energy with small-town warmth during Athens' festive season.
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Christmas Lights
21 eventsAccessible half-mile light trail with themed displays.
Christmas Markets
19 eventsHoliday trees auctioned to fight human trafficking
Christmas Shows
11 eventsProfessional ballet company's holiday classic performance
Other Christmas Activities
32 eventsAnnual Christmas Parade on Main Street
Editor's Picks (6)
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Winter WonderLights at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia
Accessible half-mile light trail with themed displays.
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Holiday Model Trains
(Atlanta)
Intricate model train displays in a botanical garden setting
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Christmas on Green Street
(Gainesville)
Historic street transformed for holiday celebration with parade and tree lighting.
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City of Anderson Christmas Parade
(Anderson)
Annual Christmas Parade on Main Street
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Georgia Festival of Trees
(Duluth)
Holiday trees auctioned to fight human trafficking
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Noon Year's Eve at Ponce City Market
(Atlanta)
Midday New Year's Eve celebration
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Parties Near Athens
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Athens.
Christmas Prime Ribs To-Go
Elevate your Christmas Eve celebration with a succulent, slow-roasted Prime Rib To-Go from...
View full details →Christmas Giving Opportunities Near Athens
Give back this holiday season with volunteering and charitable opportunities in Athens.
FODAC Annual Breakfast with Santa
Join FODAC for their annual Breakfast with Santa, a heartwarming family event supporting...
View full details →Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about events and activities in Athens
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Also Near Athens
Gainesville
- Morning Services at Grace Episcopal Church featuring the Georgia Boy Choir
- Dahlonega Festival of Trees
Lawrenceville
- The Jolly Christmas Shop - Christmas Trees
- The Jolly Christmas Shop - Christmas Decorations
- Atlanta Christkindl Market
Sugar Hill
- Margaritaville's Lakeside Lights Spectacular
- Margaritaville at Lanier Islands: License to Chill Snow Island & Lakeside Lights Spectacular
- Lakewood 400 Antiques Market
Stonecrest
See all in Stonecrest →Peachtree Corners
See all in Peachtree Corners →Athens Christmas FAQ
Major annual events often include the tree lighting ceremonies downtown and various community festivals that kick off the holiday season. Keep an eye on local event calendars for the most up-to-date information.
Athens often celebrates with community-focused events like tree lightings and parades, reflecting a strong local spirit. The emphasis is usually on gathering together and enjoying the festive atmosphere created by residents and local businesses.
Historic neighborhoods like the downtown area and surrounding residential streets are often beautifully decorated. Many residents take pride in their displays, creating charming walking or driving routes.
Look for artisan markets and craft fairs popping up in community centers, public squares, and sometimes at larger event venues. The downtown area is a good starting point for finding local makers.
Enjoying the neighborhood Christmas lights, attending free tree lighting ceremonies, and exploring public spaces with festive decorations are excellent free options. Many community events also offer low-cost or donation-based activities.
Families often enjoy visiting Santa, attending kid-friendly holiday shows or movies, and exploring the festive lights in decorated neighborhoods. Many community events are designed with children in mind.