It’s the most wonderful time of the year in North Atlanta and there is definitely not a shortage of things to do to get you into the holiday spirit! From pictures with Santa to holiday markets galore, there’s a little something for everyone. Check out our list below of some of the best, family friendly activities that you won’t want to miss this holiday season.
Tree/Menorah Lighting & Neighborhood Lights
When: Sunday, November 20, 2022; 1-8pm
Where: Avalon (Alpharetta)
Activities: Enjoy the annual opening of Avalon on Ice, the incredible tree lighting, and an appearance from Santa Claus!
When: Friday, December 2, 2022; 6-8pm
Where: Roswell Park, 925 Canton St
Activities: Celebrate with carols, hot chocolate, fire pits, and s'mores! Enjoy a special reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, as well as, the lighting of the 40 foot Christmas tree and a special visit from Santa Claus.
When: December 18, 2022; 5-6pm
Where: Avalon (Alpharetta)
Activities: Celebrate the first night of Chanukah with delicious food, lively music, & exciting entertainment. Free admission.
- Ashebrook Night of Lights (Cumming):
When: Date and times TBD *Follow on Instagram @ashebrookenightoflights
Where: Ashebrook neighborhood; 5020 Luke Dr., Cumming
Photo Ops with Santa
When: December 9, 2022, 5-9pm
Where: Downtown Alpharetta
Activities: Enjoy photos with Santa, community karaoke, and a gift wrapping booth!
- Santa’s Workshop at North Point Mall:
When: November 18- December 24, 2022; Hours vary *see website
Where: North Point Mall, Alpharetta; 1000 North Point Circle
When: December 3, 2022; 11am-3pm
Where: Halcyon Forsyth
Activities: Free Santa photos available from 11am-3pm. In addition, meet and take photos with your favorite characters including Minnie and Mickey Mouse, Anna, Elsa and Spiderman.
Festive Shopping
When: December 2-3, 2022; 10am-6pm
Where: Alpharetta Arts Center; 238 Canton Street
Activities: Art makes the perfect gift! Come shop the market for gorgeous, one of a kind art. Free admission.
Family Friendly Events
When: November 20, 2022 – January 14, 2023; Times vary *see website for more info
Where: Avalon; 400 Avalon Blvd
Activities: Come glide on the Rockefeller-inspired ice skating rink! Guests will need to book ice skating reservations in advance to ensure a skating time slot. Walk-ups are also welcome, but timing can’t be guaranteed *See website for pricing & ticket ordering
*Keep an eye out for us on the ice rink this holiday season!
- Santa's Secrete Stache (Avalon)
When: Open 3PM-10PM Monday-Friday, 12PM-10PM Saturday, and 12PM-9PM on Sunday
Where: Avalon; 400 Avalon Blvd
Activities: Step into this fantastical wonderland for over-the-top seasonally themed cocktails + decedent desserts from New York City-based
Milk Bar, as well as other local bakeries.
*All ages are welcome until 7PM daily. After 7PM until closing, 21 & over only.
- Christmas Lights at North Point (Alpharetta):
When: December 1-4, 2022,6-10pm
Where: North Point Community Church Lawn, 4350 North Point Parkway
Activities: Usher in the season with live music, holiday lights, and a magical Christmas tree. Arrive early to grab your spot on the lawn and shop the markets.
- A Christmas Story, the Musical; by: ACT1 Theatre (Alpharetta):
When: December 2-18, 2022; Friday & Saturday at 8:00PM
Sunday at 2:00PM
Where: ACT1 Theatre; 180 Academy St
When: Tuesday, December 20, 2022; 5-7pm
Where: Halcyon Forsyth
Activities: Celebrate the lighting of the Menorah with gelt (chocolate coins), latkes, games, giveaways, music, & more!
When: December 10, 2022; 8-10am
Info: City of Milton firefighters cook and serve up delicious breakfast! Professional photography will NOT be available at this event, but Santa photos are welcome and encouraged!
- Santa Brunch at Miltons (Milton)
When: December 4, 11 and 18; 10am,-3pm
Where: Miltons; 800 Mayfield Rd
Info: $40 photo fee per family. Your Santa experience will be professionally captured by Kelly Berry Photography; Please see website for info on saving your spot or call: 770-817-0161.
When: December 4, 2022; 8am-10am
Where: The Hotel at Avalon Conference Center; 9000 Avalon Blvd
Info:Jingle all the way down the Boulevard in a one-mile family friendly run filled with fun stops along the way!
When: December 10, 2022; 8-10am
Adults Only
When: Thursdays, December 1, 8, and 15th; 6-8pm
Where: Avalon, claim your tickets at concierge!
- Mercantile Social Happy WhoLidays Pop Up Bar
When: Nov 8th-Dec 31st
Where: Mercantile Social downtown Alpharetta
Info: Specialty Grinch and Holiday Themed Craft Cocktails, Live music & entertainment, Immersive & fun decorations
