The 7 Best Holiday Events In Atlanta

Known for its moderate weather, fun-loving culture, and warm Southern hospitality, Atlanta is the perfect place to celebrate the holiday season. From sparkling lights and festive markets to family-friendly activities, holiday bars, and other seasonal traditions, Atlanta offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of holiday enthusiast. Whether you're in search of the perfect gift, a cozy winter escape, or an unforgettable light display, Atlanta has lots of special events to offer this time of year.

Table of Contents

• Holiday Markets and Craft Fairs

• Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies

• Holidays on The Roof at Ponce City Market

• Garden Lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden

• Sparkle Village at City Springs

• The 2025 Peach Drop Festival

• Kids’ Early New Years Eve Celebration at Stone Mountain

• Winter Festivals and Carnivals

• Enjoy Your Next Stay in Atlanta with Placemakr

Holiday Markets and Craft Fairs

Atlanta’s holiday markets and craft fairs are some of the best places to find thoughtful gifts and soak up the festive atmosphere. One of the most popular ones is the Atlanta Christkindl Market in Buckhead Village (with a new, second location this year called Galleria on the Park), which brings a taste of Europe to the heart of the city. Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, this event runs from late November (closed on Thanksgiving) through Christmas Eve, offering handmade crafts, festive foods, and European-style holiday cheer. Visitors can explore a variety of vendors selling everything from candle arches and ornaments to gingerbread cookies and mulled wine. The market’s charming vibe makes it a perfect stop for holiday shopping and a cozy day out with friends or family. For a taste of authentic European holiday cheer, visit Christkindl Market. For one day only (December 8), you can also attend Finca to Filter’s “Finca Market” from 10 am to 2 pm. 

And then for a great après-shopping experience, why not visit one of Atlanta’s coolest bars for a festive drink? Whether you’re enjoying a mulled wine at a holiday pop-up or cozying up to a craft cocktail, these local spots will have you feeling merry and bright. In Sandy Springs, the Select’s holiday pop-up bar has become an annual tradition over the years. The stunning restaurant takes it to the next level with magnificent décor, festive drinks and a joyous atmosphere. Tre Vele is known to go over the top with its  “Jingle Bar” on their heated rooftop patio, as well. In Inman Park, check out Little Spirit’s “Little Christmas Spirit”; on the BeltLine, Florida Man has transformed into FestiveMan; and from late November to early February, checking out Shiloh’s Chalet in Alpharetta is a must – expect drinks like ginger snap buttered rum, frosted cosmopolitans, and espresso martinis served in vintage holiday glassware.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies

Atlanta is known for its stunning tree lighting ceremonies, which mark the official start of the holiday season. One of the city's most iconic events is the Light the Station celebration at Atlantic Station, where a grand 50-foot tree is illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights. The free event is accompanied by the Parade of Lights, a festive procession featuring live performances, floats, and even appearances from Santa. It’s a beloved tradition for families, and the magical atmosphere is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

Other notable tree lighting ceremonies include one that will take place at The Battery on November 30, the Sparkle Parade with a Menorah and tree lighting in Sandy Springs on December 8, the Lighting of Avalon November 24, and the Alpharetta Tree Lighting on November 23 (this one will include live music, snow flurries, and a performance by the Metropolitan Ballet Theatre. 

Holidays on The Roof at Ponce City Market

The Roof at Ponce City Market is the ultimate destination for winter fun in Atlanta. And Holidays on the Roof, beginning November 29, offers a little something for everyone, with activities like ice skating, igloos, and “Holiday Social Bar,” a festive pop-up bar. For those looking to make their holiday experience extra special, the rooftop also hosts cocktail-making classes, where you can learn to mix seasonal drinks.

But the fun doesn’t stop there—be sure to stick around for the annual Noon Year’s Eve party at the Roof—a family friendly, all-ages celebration for those who prefer to countdown to Noon instead of staying up until midnight. This event features music, games, and panoramic views of the city, of course. For more details on the event, visit Ponce City Roof Holidays.

In addition to rooftop festivities, Ponce City Market offers numerous shops and dining options for those who want to warm up or do some holiday shopping. If you're looking to make the most of your stay, Placemakr offers convenient Atlanta accommodations right in the heart of the action, so you can easily access all of the holiday fun.

Garden Lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden

The Garden Lights, Holiday Nights event at the Atlanta Botanical Garden is one of the most breathtaking holiday light displays in the city. Featuring more than a million lights, the garden is transformed into a winter wonderland with stunning exhibits like the Tunnel of Light and the enchanting Ice Goddess sculpture. This immersive experience is perfect for families and couples alike, offering a magical stroll through one of Atlanta’s most beloved landmarks. The event runs from mid-November to early January, making it a perfect holiday outing to enjoy the festive season’s beauty. This event also features new installations each year, ensuring there’s always something fresh to see. For more information, check out the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s calendar.

After enjoying the lights, consider visiting some of Atlanta’s best bars or restaurants nearby like Lyla Lila or Bonton to warm up with a hearty meal or seasonal treat.

Sparkle Village at City Springs

It’s the most wonderful time of year in Sandy Springs, Georgia with a stunning holiday parade, tree and menorah lighting, concerts, a holiday market, and more. Be sure to check out the Sparkle Village at City Springs where more than 30 miniature houses, created by local businesses, schools, and organizations, are lit nightly to embrace the holiday season. Sparkle Sandy Springs is the official kick-off to the holiday season with an incredible parade featuring more than 45 floats & performances. The magical town square looks like a real life North Pole with four-foot houses lining a park that’s transformed into a 5,000-square-foot outdoor skating rink for the holiday season.  

The 2025 Peach Drop Festival 

A uniquely Southern tradition since 1989, The Peach Drop at Underground Atlanta is one of the most anticipated events of the year, ringing in the New Year with a bit of Georgia charm. This iconic celebration includes live music, delicious food, fireworks, and the famous peach drop at midnight—an homage to Atlanta’s status as the Peach State. The event is free to attend and draws a large crowd every year. If you’re looking to celebrate in an energetic and fun environment, the Peach Drop is a great option.

Kids’ Early New Years Eve Celebration at Stone Mountain 

For a more family-oriented celebration, head to Stone Mountain Park for their New Year’s Eve Festivities. The park hosts a variety of events, including music, millions of tiny lights, shows, and even holiday characters. If you're looking for a unique, scenic way to celebrate New Year's Eve, Stone Mountain Park offers the perfect setting just half an hour or so outside the city. For more details, visit Stone Mountain Park's Early New Year's Eve Celebration.

Winter Festivals and Carnivals

Winter in Atlanta is also the time for various seasonal festivals and carnivals. IllumiNights at the Zoo: a Chinese Lantern Festival takes place in Grant Park November through mid-January and showcases beautifully illuminated wildlife and plants, with new lanterns and experiences for the first time this year. Grab a hot chocolate or something a little stronger, participate in a marshmallow roast by the fire, and take lots of pictures here. IllumiNights begins at 5:30 pm and most real animals go inside before dark—so if you want to see them, visit during the day. 

Enjoy Your Next Stay in Atlanta with Placemakr

With so many fantastic holiday events in Atlanta, there's no better time to visit or stay a while. Whether you're here for the lights, the markets, the cocktails, or the parades, there is most certainly something great for everyone. When it comes to accommodations, Placemakr offers the perfect Atlanta accommodations for your holiday adventures, ensuring you’re close to all the action. With all the festive fun in the city, you're sure to create lasting memories this holiday season!