Christmas takes on a special magic in Georgia. From elaborate light displays to Christmas parades and festivals, Georgians celebrate the holiday in style. Many celebrities call Georgia home and partake in beloved local traditions and spirited festivities unique to the state. This article explores how famous figures experience Christmas while in Georgia and the most exciting seasonal events drawing visitors from near and far.
How do celebrities celebrate Christmas in Georgia?
Georgia offers many opportunities for VIPs to enjoy Christmas charm while supporting local communities. From holiday galas to Christmas tree lightings, celebrities join public celebrations that raise money for charities.
Do any celebrities open their homes for Christmas events?
Yes, some generous superstars allow charities to host events in their lovely homes to heighten fundraising efforts. In 2022, singer Jennifer Nettles welcomed visitors into her luxe Atlanta property for a Christmas-themed fundraiser benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
What Christmas events take place in Atlanta to attract celebrity guests?
Several high-profile holiday happenings occur annually in Atlanta, Georgia’s capital and largest city. These include:
- The Snow Ball – Established in 1986 and hosted by the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities, this event spreads Christmas joy to children with disabilities. Celebrities like country singer Easton Corbin have attended the inclusive gala.
- UNICEF Snowflake Ball – This annual fundraiser brings stars together to support UNICEF’s humanitarian work. Previous celebrity guests include Usher, Ludacris, and Jeff Foxworthy.
- Children’s Christmas Parade – Local sports mascots and TV personalities ride floats alongside Santa during this beloved parade. Former Atlanta Braves pitcher John Smoltz served as grand marshal in 2022.
How else do famous Georgians celebrate the Christmas season?
In addition to attending public events, some stars partake in local traditions or give back to those less fortunate through private efforts:
- Recording artist Kenny Rogers sang Christmas carols at children’s hospitals before his 2020 passing.
- Chef and TV host Paula Deen hosts an annual Christmas party for family and friends at her Savannah restaurant.
- Actor and former Georgia governor Sonny Perdue reads holiday stories to pediatric patients unable to leave the hospital.
What are the most exciting Christmas events and attractions drawing crowds in Georgia?
From dazzling light shows to community parades and ceremonies, Georgians celebrate heartfelt Christmas traditions with gusto. When it comes to yuletide spectacle and merriment, these events top visitors’ lists.
Callaway Gardens Fantasy in Lights
This stunning 15-mile driving trail at Pine Mountain’s Callaway Gardens hosts over 8 million sparkling lights. Visitors experience festive scenes and playful displays from the comfort of their cars. The event runs from mid-November through early January and attracts over 500,000 attendees annually.
St. Simons Island Christmas Tree Ceremony
At this beloved coastal community ceremony, a towering oak tree adorned with over 10,000 twinkling lights serves as the Christmas centerpiece. The event also features homemade cocoa, holiday snacks, Christmas carols, and a reading of the Christmas story.
Atlanta Christmas Parade
Said to be one of the Southeast’s largest holiday parades, this Atlanta tradition draws roughly 500,000 spectators each year. Floats, balloons, and marching bands delight crowds over the 3-mile Peachtree Street route. The parade kicks off the city’s Christmas celebrations.
Lanier Islands Magical Nights of Lights
Situated on Lake Sidney Lanier just north of Atlanta, Lanier Islands creates a spectacular Christmas wonderland. Guests embark on a walking trail or drive their cars to see dazzling light displays synchronized to music. Visits with Santa and holiday performances add to the excitement.
Table summarizing exciting Christmas events and attractions in Georgia
| Event | Location | Key Features | Annual Visitors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Callaway Gardens Fantasy in Lights | Pine Mountain | 15 miles of light displays viewable by car | 500,000+ |
| St. Simons Island Christmas Tree Ceremony | St. Simons Island | Tree lighting, carols, snacks, readings | Hundreds of attendees |
| Atlanta Christmas Parade | Atlanta | Floats, balloons, and bands parade Peachtree St | 500,000 spectators |
| Lanier Islands Magical Nights of Lights | Lake Lanier | Walking trails and drives to see light displays + more | Tens of thousands |
What other Christmas festivals capture the holiday spirit?
From sparkling light shows to European-inspired celebrations, Georgia hosts numerous Christmas festivals for making merry. Top small-town events include:
Helen Christmas Tree Lighting and Festival: This Bavarian-styled mountain village kicks off Christmas with handcrafted ornaments and twinkling lights lining cobblestone streets. Festivities include a parade, concerts, and food.
Dunwoody Village Lights Up: Holiday magic comes to Dunwoody Village for this new event featuring tree lighting, gingerbread decorating, photos with Santa, and festive foods from local eateries.
Noccalula Christmas Extravaganza: Spanning 50 nights from Thanksgiving onward, this elaborate display transforms Noccalula Falls Park into a winter wonderland. Carolers, train rides, light shows, and visits from Santa all feature.
What special Christmas attractions can families experience in Georgia?
From sparkling botanical gardens to train rides with Santa, Georgia overflows with child-friendly attractions for Christmas. Families flock to these sites to capture the holiday spirit through activities, shows, and whimsical displays.
Atlanta Botanical Garden Garden Lights Holiday Nights
The Atlanta Botanical Garden awakens after dark for this family-favorite event. Twinkling lights, laser shows, storytelling, and seasonal treats fill the verdant gardens. Many nights sell out weeks in advance.
Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park
The winter version of Georgia’s iconic Stone Mountain Park dazzles families with a snow playground, ice tubing, shows starring Santa, and impressive light displays. Visitors can even glimpse fireworks on select dates.
The Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens Holiday Light Show
Situated on St. Simons Island, these botanical gardens shine for the holidays. Displays like the 12 Days of Christmas Lights, the Dancing Trees, and the Enchanted Woodland enthrall families strolling the verdant grounds.
The Polar Express Train Ride
This beloved Christmas story springs to life via train rides departing from the Southeastern Railway Museum. Pajama-clad kids delight in hot chocolate, cookies, carols, readings of the classic tale, and a special guest appearance.
Table of special Christmas family attractions in Georgia
| Attraction | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Botanical Garden Garden Lights | Atlanta | Light shows, music, and activities among gardens |
| Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park | Stone Mountain | Snow playground, shows, lights, and more |
| Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens Light Show | St. Simons Island | Fairy tale-themed light displays in gardens |
| The Polar Express Train Ride | Duluth | Train rides, carols, and storybook fun |
What are some interesting facts about Christmas celebrations and traditions in Georgia?
Beyond the many wonderful Christmas events dazzling visitors today, Georgia also boasts a rich history of holiday customs tied to its culturally diverse roots. Discover fascinating facts behind Peach State Christmas traditions below.
When did Georgians begin adorning live Christmas trees?
Germans settling in Georgia in the 1700s introduced the tradition of decorating evergreen fir trees to celebrate Christmas. The custom quickly caught on, eventually spreading across America.
How did Atlanta establish one of the first electrically lit trees?
In the early 1900s, Walter Rich lit a towering evergreen outside his Atlanta furniture store using electric lights he purchased. The magnificently lit tree inspired an annual tradition now carried out at Atlanta’s Lenox Square Mall.
When did Poinsettias become linked to Georgia’s Christmas history?
Georgia native Joel Roberts Poinsett introduced America to the brilliant red-leafed Mexican plant in 1828 after discovering them in southern Mexico. Poinsett earned the honor of the flower’s botanical name.
How does Georgia continue England’s Christmas plum pudding custom?
Thanks to founder James Oglethorpe’s English heritage, Georgia preserved the British custom of preparing plum puddings at Christmas. Savannah’s Desposito’s Seafood serves a flaming version — a nod to the colony’s past.
How did Atlanta influence modern American Christmas traditions?
Coca-Cola inventor John Pemberton developed his globally adored cola recipe while living in Atlanta in 1886. His sweet fizzy concoction would forever transform Santa’s look from a gaunt, serious figure to the jolly, plump character recognized today.
Conclusion
Christmas in Georgia brims with charm thanks to beloved regional traditions, spirited community celebrations, and dazzling holiday light displays. Famous figures called Peach State celebrities partake in Christmas philanthropy and time-honored local customs. Can’t-miss events like the Atlanta Christmas Parade, Callaway Gardens light show, and festivities in the idyllic mountain city of Helen capture wonder across generations.
From glittering botanical gardens and Santa train journeys to European-inspired villages, Georgia offers no shortage of venues for spreading Christmas joy. Visitors find as much history as holiday enchantment in the state’s celebrations. By witnessing both signature events around Atlanta and the distinct traditions of small towns, one discovers the richness behind Christmas in Georgia.
Frequently Asked Questions About Celebrating Christmas in Georgia
People often have additional questions surrounding Christmas festivities in the state. Explore answers to common Georgia holiday queries here.
When do the best Christmas events happen in Georgia?
Most holiday celebrations kick off on or around Thanksgiving and last through early January. Peak times when more celebrations and attractions open include the week leading up to Christmas and between Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
What Georgia Christmas attraction should visitors book tickets for early?
The stunning light displays at Callaway Gardens often sell out entirely for the weeks leading up to Christmas. Visitors planning to attend are advised to purchase dated tickets well in advance online to secure spots.
Are there Christmas events for adults without children in Georgia?
Yes, many festivals host special adult nights with cocktails, richer menus, and entertainment less focused on young ones. Examples include Garden Lights Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens and Christmas at Callanwolde Fine Arts Center.
Do any Christmas attractions offer discounts for children and seniors?
Many holiday events provide reduced ticket pricing for seniors over 65 years old and younger children under 12 years old. Checking specific attraction websites for early bird specials and coupon codes can also yield significant savings.
Where can visitors find additional info on Christmas events in Georgia?
Explore Georgia’s tourism site ExploreGeorgia.org for current event listings in cities across the state. Individual attraction and venue websites also offer details on dates, tickets, and activities for planning holiday adventures. City visitor bureaus also share local happenings.