Festive Fun in the Heart of the City: Your Guide to Celebrating the Holidays in Downtown Atlanta
December 04, 2024
The heart of Atlanta is brimming with festive cheer, offering locals and visitors a variety of exciting activities and events to enjoy with family and friends.
Whether you’re a local looking for holiday fun or a visitor in search of a seasonal getaway, Downtown Atlanta has something for everyone. From dazzling public art installations to musical celebrations, here's your ultimate guide to celebrating the holidays in ATL DTN.
Month-Long Events
ART in the PARK: Radiant
From 12/5 through 1/17/25
Bask in the glow of Woodruff Park's illuminated art installation. For more fun, attend the opening party for the installation on 12/5 from 4:30 - 6:00 PM.
At the opening party, enjoy sweet holiday treats as you take in a custom musical composition and accompanying dance performances, all unfolding in front of artist Eddie Farr's sculptures that ripple with light.
A Christmas Story at Theatrical Outfit
Running through 12/24
Gather the entire family for the return of a favorite holiday theatrical tradition – A CHRISTMAS STORY live on stage! The world’s most famous nine-year-old – Ralphie Parker – takes guests on a hysterical, hijinks-filled avalanche of adventure filled with all the trappings of a perfect family holiday – an exploding furnace, a perfect pair of pink bunny pajamas, and a wild rash of theatrical fantasies not for the “fra-gee-lay” of heart. Come see this beloved Christmas story live on stage for a night filled with madcap humor, iconic characters, and the true warmth of the holiday season.
Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol at the Shakespeare Tavern
Running from 12/7 to 12/23
A Holiday Tradition at The Shakespeare Tavern for over 20 years, ASC continues with J. Tony Brown’s original adaptation of a timeless classic, as now envisioned by ASC's Director of Education and Training, Laura J. Cole.
Pemberton Place Express and Holiday Lights at the World of Coca-Cola
Through 12/29
Wander the greenspace between the World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium filled with holiday décor, snap picture-perfect moments and enjoy a 5-6 minute experience on the Holiday Express train before or after your attraction visit. (Train rides require same-day attraction tickets). Lights are on display until 12/25, with the Holiday Express running on Saturdays and Sundays through 12/29.
Snow Days at the Children's Museum of Atlanta
Through 1/2/25
It's winter at CMA! Special seasonal activities will thrill visitors of all ages. CMA On Stage presents readings of “The Snow Dancer” by Addie Boswell and Snow Ball Fights, the Art Studio leads guests in a Solstice Art project, Sockefeller Plaza allows little ones to slip, slide, and sock-skate in the warmth, and the Science Bar lets young scientists embark on a Winter Smelly Science adventure!
IllumiNights at the Zoo presented by Georgia Power
Through 1/19/25
Atlanta’s cherished holiday tradition is back, showcasing vistas of brilliantly illuminated wildlife and captivating sights that celebrate the wonders of nature. This year, introducing new lanterns and experiences, transforming the Zoo into a nighttime wonderland.
Week of 12/1 - 12/7
Wednesday Lunchtime Performance | 12/4 12:00 - 1:30 PM | Broad Street Boardwalk
Enjoy the tunes of Joseph E. Reed, the "One Man Orchestra," as he plays holiday music. PLUS sample free hot cocoa from Mocha Pops and arrive early to get your free ATL DTN holiday candle!
Holiday Treat Jars with Miranda Smith | 12/5 3:00 - 5:00 PM | Central Library
Create a personalized decorative holiday treat jar with Miranda Smith from Fulton County Arts and Culture! This is a unique edible gift idea for anyone on your Holiday list!
Community Market feat. Drag Dance Battle | 12/5 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM | Broad Street Boardwalk
Attend a very special edition of the Community Market, Atlanta's destination for local art, vintage, ceramics, apparel, jewelry, apothecary, and more! At 2:00 PM come cheer on your favorite as Drag Grinch and Drag Santa battle it out on the Boardwalk. Don't forget to arrive early and secure a Woodruff park mini-mug to take home.
Sips Under the Sea: Holidays | 12/6 7:00 - 10:00 PM | Georgia Aquarium
Step into a winter wonderland like no other at Georgia Aquarium’s Sips Under the Sea: Holidays, a festive evening crafted exclusively for adults 21 and up. Wander through enchanting underwater galleries adorned with vibrant holiday decor and sparkling lights that add a touch of magic to the season.
50th Anniversary of the Annual Iron Pour | 12/7 3:00 - 8:30 PM | GSU Sculpture Studio
Guests are invited to create custom "scratch” designs into molds, after which molten iron is poured and cooled down to take home. For the 50th anniversary of this tradition, our school is proud to host a group exhibition of alumni work and an artist talk by Professor Emerti George Beasley.
Cookies with Santa | 12/7 and 12/8 | Zoo Atlanta
Santa is taking his workshop on the road and making his first stop at Zoo Atlanta’s Action Resource Center (ARC) building! Bring the family for a personal visit with Santa and a professional Santa photo to remember the moment. While you wait for your turn with Santa, enjoy cookies, hot chocolate, holiday crafts, and of course, holly jolly photo opportunities for all!
Week of 12/8 - 12/14
Las Posadas | 12/8 12:00 PM | Children's Museum of Atlanta
Families are invited to a Las Posadas celebration, a cherished Mexican tradition that follows Mary and Joseph’s journey in search of shelter. Alma Mexicana Danza Folklórica joins the CMA stage with swirling skirts and spirited steps, bringing this holiday story to life. Guests can join in the joy, dancing in the vibrant rhythms of the season!
Rialto Series: 27th Annual Holiday Gala | 12/8 3:00 - 5:00 PM | Rialto Center for the Arts
A merry event proudly presented by the Georgia State School of Music, watch exceptionally talented student musicians deliver a festive splendor, from holiday classics to contemporary works. This year’s gala promises an extra layer of brilliance with special guest performances.
Wednesday Lunchtime Performance | 12/11 12:00 - 1:30 PM | Broad Street Boardwalk
Enjoy holiday music from the GSU Brass Ensemble as you eat your lunch on the Boardwalk.
Christmas Brunch | 12/14 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM | Signia by Hilton Atlanta
Step into the magic of the season with an exquisite brunch experience designed just for adults. Dress to impress and revel in an afternoon of timeless elegance, accompanied by live music, stunning décor, and festive photo opportunities designed to create unforgettable memories.
Week of 12/15 - 12/21
Hanukkah & Christmas Observation | 12/15 | Children's Museum of Atlanta
Gather to celebrate the season by exploring the rich traditions of Hanukkah and Christmas through festive performances and activities. With the warm glow of the menorah and the merry melodies of Christmas, children will be filled with glee and wonder all day long!
96.1 The Beat's Jingle Ball | 12/19 7:30 PM | State Farm Arena
See performances by Sexyy Red, Tip “T.I.” Harris, T-Pain, Saweetie, The Kid LAROI, Khalid and Tinashe.
Coca-Cola Holiday Caravan | 12/21 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM | Pemberton Place
The caravan is back! Pose with Santa, make magical postcards, shop heartwarming gifts while sipping free Coca-Cola.
Christmas Brunch | 12/21 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM | Signia by Hilton Atlanta
Step into the magic of the season with an exquisite brunch experience designed just for adults. Dress to impress and revel in an afternoon of timeless elegance, accompanied by live music, stunning décor, and festive photo opportunities designed to create unforgettable memories.
Feast of the Seven Fishes | 12/21 | Capolinea at Signia by Hilton Atlanta
Join in a time-honored Italian tradition with the exclusive Feast of the Seven Fishes, where chefs will present seven exquisitely prepared courses along with selections from our award-winning wine collection.
If you’re unable to attend the event, Feast of the Seven Fishes-inspired specials will be available on Thursday, Dec. 19 and Friday, Dec. 20 leading up to the dinner.
Week of 12/22 - 12/28
Kwanzaa Celebration | 12/28 12:00 PM | Children's Museum of Atlanta
Families are invited to honor Kwanzaa with an interactive drum and dance performance by Djoli Kelen! Experience the vibrant traditions and stories of Kwanzaa through music and movement.
Week of 12/29 - 1/4
Bubble Bash | 12/31 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM | Children's Museum of Atlanta
It’s time to burst into 2025! Children’s Museum of Atlanta will once again host its annual daytime New Year’s Bubble Bash for families to ring in the New Year – a few hours early – on Tuesday, Dec. 31. This kid-centric event will be filled with laughter, dancing, games and good times! Attendees will enjoy music from a DJ, experience hands-on fun and ring in the new year with the Museum’s annual bubble wrap popping tradition! Advance tickets are required.
Zoo Year's Eve | 12/31 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM | Zoo Atlanta
Midnight is for adults, but Zoo Year’s Eve is for kids!
Join a wild and wonderful family-friendly celebration to ring in the New Year at Zoo Atlanta! Zoo Year’s Eve event the perfect way for families to welcome 2025 with fun, excitement, and a touch of animal magic.
2024 Peach Drop | 12/31 4:00 PM | Underground Atlanta
The Atlanta Peach Drop is back! Join the city for an outdoor FREE-admission New Year's Eve Celebration featuring live music, arts, food, and more.
New year's Eve Celebration | 12/31 8:00 PM | Red Phone Booth Atlanta
Ring in the New Year with unparalleled style at Red Phone Booth, where luxury and classic speakeasy charm set the stage for an unforgettable night. Known for our impeccable selection of fine craft cocktails, Red Phone Booth invites you to experience a sophisticated celebration, perfectly blending elegance with timeless classic 1920’s vibes.
New Year's Eve Dinner | 12/31 9:00 PM | Signia by Hilton Atlanta
Welcome the New Year with an indulgent Italian culinary experience featuring a three-course menu designed to honor authentic Italian flavors, while adding a touch of celebratory flair.
New Year's Eve Celebration | 12/31 9:00 PM | Georgia Aquarium
Ring in 2025 at an exclusive VIP celebration, featuring after-hours access to all aquarium galleries, live DJs, and dance floors that will keep the energy high all night long. Enjoy the lounge in Oceans Ballroom, indulge in gourmet food offerings prepared by Wolfgang Puck Catering, and savor delicious takeaway treats (while supplies last). The premium open bar ensures your glass is always full as you toast to the New Year. Experience the excitement of midnight countdowns in both the atrium and ballroom, surrounded by breathtaking aquatic views.