Last updated: November 11, 2024
Discover the best holiday events in Athens! Explore all the must-see festive highlights with our guide. Whether you're an Athens regular or a one-time visitor, our guide helps you create lasting holiday memories.
This season, immerse yourself in the enchanting lights at Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, where the garden transforms into a vibrant, illuminated wonderland. Another highlight is the Winter WonderLights at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, featuring unique interactive displays that engage visitors of all ages. And the Winter WonderLights at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia is something you definitely don't want to miss. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Athens Holiday Light Displays
Winter WonderLights at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia
The State Botanical Garden of Georgia transforms into a dazzling display of lights with Winter WonderLights. Visitors follow a half-mile trail through a Winter Wondercave, along Jingle Bell Lane, into the Northern Lights, and through a Cone Tree Forest. Along the way, they can roast marshmallows for s’mores and enjoy hot chocolate or other refreshments.
Winter Wonderlights at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia
The State Botanical Garden of Georgia transforms into a dazzling display of twinkling lights and festive features, including a Winter Wondercave, Jingle Bell Lane, and the Northern Lights. Visitors can enjoy roasting marshmallows for s’mores and rich hot chocolate along the half-mile fully accessible trail.
Athens Holiday Markets and Shopping
Athens Holiday Market
The Athens Academy Holiday Market is a premier event featuring over 85 vendors from across the Southeast, offering a wide range of original, hand-crafted items including jewelry, pottery, artwork, floral arrangements, soaps, and artisanal food.
Athens Holiday Shows and Entertainment
The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker is a treasured holiday fairytale that follows a young girl's journey through a fantasy world of fairies, princes, toy soldiers, and an army of mice. Set to Tchaikovsky's beloved score, this performance features all your holiday favorites, including "Waltz of the Flowers," "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy," and "Waltz of the Snowflakes."
Irish Christmas in America
Irish Christmas in America is a family-friendly performance featuring lively instrumental tunes and thrilling old-style Irish dancing. Traditional artists from Ireland bring a fun-filled start to the holiday season with rich tradition, humor, and boundless energy.
Christmas with John Berry
Join John Berry for a festive evening of classic Christmas songs, including "Little Drummer Boy," "O Come All Ye Faithful," and "O Holy Night." The show features a fresh new performance each year, making it an event for the whole family to cherish.
The B-52s
The B-52s, one of rock music's most beloved and enduring bands, will perform at the Classic Center Arena. Formed in 1976, they are known for groundbreaking songs like "Rock Lobster," "Dance This Mess Around," and "Love Shack."
Gladys Knight
Gladys Knight is a seven-time GRAMMY Award winner known for her unassailable artistry in Pop, Gospel, R&B, and Adult Contemporary genres. With over 38 albums recorded, she has triumphed in film, television, and live performance. Her extensive career includes solo albums like "Good Woman" and "Many Different Roads," as well as acting appearances in shows like "Star" and films like "Almost Christmas."
Stone Mountain Christmas
Stone Mountain Christmas features live shows, millions of twinkling lights, and special events like the Christmas Drone Show and Santa's Big Flight. Enjoy festive music, spectacular shows, and visits from favorite holiday characters amidst the park's decorated attractions.
Athens Other Holiday Activities
Breakfast with Santa
Join Breakfast with Santa at The Classic Center Atrium for a morning of holiday crafts, a full breakfast buffet, and a chance to tell Santa your Christmas wishes. Enjoy family memories captured by a professional photographer and special appearances by holiday-themed characters, including the Coca-Cola Polar Bear. Children can participate in a Christmas coloring contest to showcase their creative skills.
Athens Rock Lobsters vs. Columbus River Dragons
The Athens Rock Lobsters face off against the Columbus River Dragons in a high-energy hockey match filled with intense action and heart-pounding moments.
