It certainly is beginning to look a lot like Christmas here in Atlanta! Although I’m a summer girl through and through, if we have to have a winter, I’m glad we get to dress it up with twinkling lights and cozy romantic dates! We know how to celebrate the holidays in style here in Atlanta, so here is my list of my favorite ways to while away these chilly days leading up to Christmas in my hometown.
See all the lights
-
Atlanta Botanical Garden
My absolute favorite Atlanta winter activity is hands-down the gorgeous light display at the Atlanta Botanical Garden for Holiday Nights of Lights. Take a stroll through the garden and enjoy stunning displays around every turn. Grab a cup of hot chocolate or eggnog and make s’mores over a fire while you’re there, too. My highlights are the Radiant Rainforest and the hanging lights along the Canopy Walk. The Radiant Rainforest is transformed into a sultry tropical holiday paradise with the soundtrack of an exotic jungle. Saunter through the display while you enjoy the mysterious green shimmering lights among the dense tropical foliage. The hanging lights along Canopy Walk are simply magical. This display will leave you mesmerized as they dance and transform to festive holiday music.
Don’t forget to make a stop by the gift shop on your way out to see some of my flower statement necklaces on display!
-
Stone Mountain
Head outside the city to the suburbs to experience Stone Mountain at Christmas time. Here you’ll find so many activities and entertainment options that you’ll have a hard time deciding what all to do. Enjoy a walk to the top of the mountain and take in the light display along the way, or bundle up in a cozy blanket on the lawn for the immersive holiday display. Save time to watch Santa through his office window and meet with Stone Mountain’s Snow Fairy! This one is sure to be a crowd pleaser for the whole family.
-
Life University- Lights of Life
The holiday lights at Life University have been a staple since 1989. Each year the display is better than the one before! Drive through the university campus and enjoy beautiful scenes created using over one million lights! You can also enjoy a concession stand for all of your hot chocolate needs along other fun activities like pony and train rides.
Romantic Date Nights
-
Igloos Atop 9 Mile Station
-
The Nutcracker Ballet
Want to get on the “nice” list before Santa comes, then you have to reserve tickets to watch Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker at its new home at the Cobb Energy Center. The Nutcracker ballet has become a staple of the Atlanta Christmas season, and while it will be missed at the Fox, it is an absolute holiday must-do!
-
Lady Bird Grove and Mess Hall
Enjoy cozy fireside dining at Lady Bird Mess Hall on the Beltline. Snuggle up close with your partner and enjoy some delicious comfort food and "patio punch" while you watch the flames dance around fire pits. If the feeling strikes, take a walk down the beltline to see the art and murals or head on down to Ponce City Market for even more festive fun.
Themed Cocktails
Every year around this time, Atlanta’s favorite bars start to transform into their very own holiday wonderlands, complete with seasonal menus and all the kitschy decor you could ever imagine!
-
Miracle Bar
This pop-up is a “can’t miss” if you want to experience Christmas cheer at its finest. Sip on holiday inspired cocktails like the "Chrismapolitan" or "Bad Santa" in the most festive atmosphere around! Miracle Bar is open now through December 26th.
-
Bon Ton's Sippin' Santa
If you're like me and try to pretend that the weather outside is not frightful, then Miracle Bar's companion pop-up, "Sippin' Santa" at Bon Ton may be just the ticket for you. This tiki themed Christmas bar is for you is sure to warm your spirits this holiday season!
-
S.O.S .
At Devi & Co., we love S.O.S. Tiki Bar on any day, but there is almost nothing better than their Tiki holiday! At S.O.S. the theme is Mele Kalikimaka! Stop by this Decatur haunt for all of the tropical Christmas vibes (and the perfect opportunity to wear your Devi & Co. Orchid Hair Piece!)and imbibe in holiday themed drinks like "Santa's Little Helper" and "Slay Ride."
-
Foxtrot Liquor Bar and Tiki Tango Hideaway
These two sister bars are going all in this year. Head to Foxtrot Liquor Bar for a National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation themed experience, or hit up Tiki Tango Hideaway to enter the Grinch’s lair. Either way, you're sure to have a happy holiday when you stop by these two Atlanta staples!
What is your favorite holiday activity in Atlanta or your own hometown?
My favorite holiday hang has to be the lights along the Canopy Walk at the Botanical Garden! Mesmerizing!