Georgia’s Top Christmas Markets and Holiday Events to Visit in 2024

Georgia lights up with festive cheer during the holiday season, offering charming Christmas markets, dazzling light displays, and family-friendly holiday events. From historic towns like Savannah to bustling Atlanta, Georgia has something for everyone to enjoy this Christmas. Here’s a list of the top holiday events and markets happening across the Peach State in 2024 for a season full of Southern holiday magic!

1. Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at Atlanta Botanical Garden

The Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Garden Lights, Holiday Nights is a spectacular light show featuring millions of lights, dazzling displays, and themed garden trails. Walk through a Tunnel of Light, see the “Ice Goddess,” and enjoy the city’s best holiday light experience.

• Dates: November 16, 2024 – January 5, 2025
• Location: Atlanta Botanical Garden, Atlanta
• Website: atlantabg.org

2. Stone Mountain Christmas

Stone Mountain Park transforms into a winter wonderland with festive light displays, holiday shows, and snow tubing. Meet Santa, take a ride on the Singalong Train, and enjoy seasonal attractions, including a Christmas parade and snowfall every evening.

• Dates: November 9, 2024 – January 1, 2025
• Location: Stone Mountain Park, Stone Mountain
• Website: stonemountainpark.com

3. German Christmas Market in Helen

Helen, a Bavarian-style village in North Georgia, hosts an authentic German Christmas Market with local vendors offering handmade gifts, holiday treats, and festive decor. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere, holiday lights, and Alpine-style architecture.

• Dates: Weekends, November 29 – December 22, 2024
• Location: Downtown Helen
• Website: helenga.org

4. Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Resort & Gardens

One of the Southeast’s largest light displays, Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens features over 8 million lights spread across 17 scenes. Take a drive or trolley through the displays, visit the Christmas Village, and enjoy holiday treats.

• Dates: November 15, 2024 – January 4, 2025
• Location: Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain
• Website: callawaygardens.com

5. Savannah Christmas Market at Plant Riverside District

The Savannah Christmas Market features holiday shopping, festive decor, live music, and holiday treats along the waterfront. Stroll along the Plant Riverside District, enjoy holiday-themed pop-up bars, and see Savannah dressed up for the season.

• Dates: November 24, 2024 – January 1, 2025
• Location: Plant Riverside District, Savannah
• Website: plantriverside.com

6. Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Over Georgia

Six Flags Over Georgia brings festive lights, thrilling rides, holiday shows, and seasonal treats to its annual Holiday in the Park. Walk through the Peppermint Plaza, see Santa’s Workshop, and enjoy a festive, fun-filled day for all ages.

• Dates: Select dates, November 23, 2024 – January 5, 2025
• Location: Six Flags Over Georgia, Austell
• Website: sixflags.com/overgeorgia

7. Victorian Christmas in Thomasville

Step back in time at Thomasville’s Victorian Christmas celebration, where the downtown area is decorated with lights, Christmas trees, and period costumes. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers, holiday vendors, and live entertainment.

• Dates: December 13 – December 14, 2024
• Location: Downtown Thomasville
• Website: thomasvillega.com

8. Lights of Life at Life University

Life University’s Lights of Life in Marietta is a drive-through holiday light show featuring thousands of lights and holiday displays. Enjoy visits from Santa, holiday treats, and a winter wonderland perfect for families.

• Dates: November 24, 2024 – December 31, 2024
• Location: Life University, Marietta
• Website: life.edu

9. The Nutcracker at the Fox Theatre

The Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker at the historic Fox Theatre is a holiday tradition for many Georgians. With stunning choreography, elaborate sets, and Tchaikovsky’s classic score, this enchanting ballet is perfect for the whole family.

• Dates: December 13 – December 29, 2024
• Location: Fox Theatre, Atlanta
• Website: foxtheatre.org

10. Christmas on the River in Columbus

Columbus’s Christmas on the River is a festive holiday event featuring a Christmas parade, tree lighting, and a holiday market. This riverfront celebration also includes live performances, food vendors, and a beautiful display of lights along the river.

• Date: December 6, 2024
• Location: Downtown Columbus
• Website: visitcolumbusga.com