Looking for something to do this season, or a way to entertain out-of-town guests? Start a new tradition this year by visiting one of the many holiday events around Atlanta in 2011. See lights, take in shows, sip hot cocoa, or just see some of our city’s most popular vacation spots decorated for the season.
Take in the Atlanta Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker at the fabulous Fox Theater. Choose from 13 weekend dates in the month of December. Ticket prices range from $22 to $90. 660 Peachtree Street Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30308
Drive though seven miles of lights and holiday scenes at Lake Lanier’s Magical Nights of Lights, going on now till January 1. Make sure to stop at the Holiday Village for marshmallow roastings, Santa visits, carnival games, pony rides and more. Price per car ranges from $40 to $60, with special packages available.
The 31st Children’s Christmas Parade marches through the streets of downtown Atlanta on Saturday, December 3, between 10:30am and noon. Show up early to get a good view, or pay $12 a person for reserved bleacher seats. (Click here for a map of the parade route.)
Visit the Stone Mountain Christmas, featuring lights, performances, hot chocolate and more. Meet Santa, Mrs. Claus and the Snow Angel, hop on the Polar Express 4-D Experience, see a nightly Christmas parade with fireworks, and more. Ticket prices start at $21 for children, $27 for adults (12 and up), with family packages available.
Go ice skating (indoors!) at The Rink at Piedmont Park, right outside the Park Tavern. The sound system pipes in merry tunes, rinkside dining is available for those to prefer to watch, and certain nights feature adult-only skating with drink specials. It costs $15 to skate, including skate rental. 500 10th Street Atlanta, GA 30309
For a free light show, stop by Centennial Olympic Park between now and the first week of January. Stroll through the Great Lawn, and check out Atlanta’s only outdoor ice rink, located inside the park. The lights are available for viewing between 7am and 11pm daily, including Christmas Day. Skating costs $7 for admission, $2 for skate rentals. At the corner of Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW and Baker Street NW.
Ride the Pink Pig at Macy’s at Lenox, a tradition over 60 years in the making. Now through New Year’s Day, Priscilla the Pig travels through storybook scenes to delight children (and give Mom a break.) Tickets are $3 per child. 3393 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326