The Christmas season in Atlanta, Georgia is always exceptionally entertaining. They city is filled with joyous holiday cheer and people that are ready to celebrate whatever the season has to bring. Several places within the city have local events scheduled that are designed to be enjoyment for the entire family.
From November 18, 2011, through January 2, 2011, Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park is completely transformed into a winter wonderland. The entire 21 acre park is extravagantly lit by thousands of glittering lights. There is no admission to stroll through the park and enjoy the beautiful scenery while holiday music plays. The park is open from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily with regular park hours in effect even on Christmas day. In addition to dressing the park in lights, they also surround the largest ice skating rink of the southeast. The rink is made of real ice and is fun for everyone at a very inexpensive price. Admission is $7.00 per person and skate rental is $2.00 with locker rental for $1.00. Group rates and student discounts are available.
The number one event held to celebrate Christmas is the Children’s Christmas Parade that is scheduled for December 3, 2011. Filled with giant helium filled balloons, large fantastically designed floats and crowd pleasing marching bands, the parade is sure to be a treat for every family member. The parade route starts on Peachtree and ends on Centennial Olympic Park Drive. The parade begins at 10:30 a.m. and ends at 12:00 p.m. Street side bleacher seats are available for reservations for $12.00 per attendee and for those that are unable to attend the parade can catch it on the local channel WSB-TV, ABC channel 2.
The Jingle Jam hosted by the popular Star 94 radio station has become an anticipated event of the holidays since its first show in 2003. Past performances have included Justin Bieber, David Archuletta, The Jonas Brothers, James Blunt and Duran Duran. The concert has been known to sell out in the past so purchasing tickets ahead of time is a must. Tickets went on sale Friday, October 28, 2011 at a starting price of $40.00 and ranging up to $115.00 including ticket fees. This years line up includes Parachute, Matt Nathanson, The Script, Big Time Rush and is headlined by the very popular band, Daughtry. The concert is being held Tuesday, December 13, 2011 and the doors will open at 6:00 p.m.
www.choa.org/parade
www.atlanta-downtown.com/events/#dec
www.accessatlanta.com/atlanta-holiday-guide/holiday-events/?cxntlid-sldr
www.centennialpark.com/index.php/plan-your-visit/event-calendar/winter-events