10 things to do in Atlanta this weekend
Access Atlanta Staff
‘Tis the season for cheer in Atlanta, where Christmas, Kwanzaa, and the winter solstice are all in full swing! Whether you’re playing tour guide for family or just looking to squeeze in a bit of “me” time, this weekend is your chance to soak up all the festive vibes our city has to offer.
Atlanta has something special for everyone – from those scrambling for last-minute gifts to football fans, and, of course, all the holiday lovers out there. Take a peek at our thoughtfully curated list of events below, tailored to make your weekend as delightful as the season itself:
KRITmas: A Toy Drive/Pop-up Concert
Join the festive spirit at Terminal West for A Very Merry KRITmas pop-up concert/toy drive with Big K.R.I.T. on Wednesday night. While the initial toy drop-off has passed, snag limited online tickets, and the proceeds will be used to purchase additional toys for the donation. There will also be a few tickets available at the door day of the show, beginning at 2 p.m. until tickets run out.
Location: Terminal West - 887 West Marietta St NW STE C; Time: 8 p.m.; Date: Wednesday, Dec. 20; Admission: $20 toy, or $30 at door; Website: terminalwestatl.com
Atlanta Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’
Dance into the holidays with the Atlanta Ballet’s enchanting rendition of “The Nutcracker!” Don’t miss the magic — multiple showtimes are available, with the last chance to see the performance at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 26.
Location: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre - 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy; Time: Various showtimes; Date: Dec. 20-26; Admission: $87+; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’ at the Center for Puppetry Arts
Discover pure holiday joy at my favorite Atlanta tradition: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer at the Center for Puppetry Arts! Join Rudolph’s journey of acceptance and self-discovery and enjoy live renditions of the beloved 1964 stop-motion animated special. This heartwarming adventure resonates with the misfit in us all!
Location: Center for Puppetry Arts - 1404 Spring St NW; Time: Various showtimes; Date: Dec. 20-31; Admission: $36; Website: puppet.org
Lean On Me: A Solstice Celebration in Song and Dance
The longest night and shortest day of the year, AKA winter solstice, takes place this Thursday. And to celebrate, head to Ponce City Market for a captivating performance with the Ebenezer Baptist Church Choir and Callanwolde School of Dance, followed by a grounding ceremony on The Yard by Modern Mystic. Embrace the light in this unique blend of dance, music, and ceremony!
Location: Ponce City Market - 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE; Time: 6:30 p.m.; Date: Thursday, Dec. 21; Admission: Free; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Asian Night Market
Friday night fun alert! Immerse yourself in a special AAPI night market at Pullman Yards. Discover artists, vendors, crafts, food, culture and more. Free entry, all ages welcome.
Location: Pullman Yards - 225 Rogers St NE; Time: 6-11 p.m.; Date: Friday, Dec. 22; Admission: Free; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
ATL Collective Presents: Mariah Carey’s ‘Merry Christmas’
Craving all the Christmas tunes? ATL Collective brings Mariah Carey’s “Merry Christmas” album to life! Join the festive groove while supporting Atlanta’s musical community.
Location: Vinyl - 1374 W Peachtree St NW; Time: 8 p.m.; Date: Friday, Dec. 22; Admission: Free; Website: centerstage-atlanta.com
A Day at Dairies: A Vintage and Handmade Pop-Up
Embrace the thrill of last-minute Christmas shopping or enjoy quality time with relatives in town at Georgia Vintage Goods’ vintage and handmade market at the Dairies this Saturday afternoon. You’ll be sure to find some amazing and unique gifts!
Location: Atlanta Dairies - 777 Memorial Dr SE; Time: Noon to 6 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Dec. 23; Admission: Free; Website: gvgatl.com
‘A Very Electric Christmas’
On Saturday, enjoy two showings of Lightwire Theater’s “A Very Electric Christmas,” which tells a dazzling tale of Max’s winter adventure with dancing toy soldiers, caroling worms and more. Captivating for all ages, set to timeless holiday hits in an electrifying style.
Location: Gas South Theater - 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Duluth, GA 30097; Time: 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Dec. 23; Admission: $24+; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Merry Lots of Improv!
Who doesn’t love a good laugh, especially during the holidays when things can get a bit stressful at times? Well, get excited because this Saturday, the Academy Theatre is back with improv - full of hilarious sketches and scenes inspired by your suggestions, covering everything from shopping malls to New Year’s resolutions.
Location: Academy Theatre - 599 N Central Ave Hapeville, GA 30354; Time: 8 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Dec. 23; Admission: $10; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Atlanta Falcons vs. Indianapolis Colts
Celebrate Christmas Eve with Falcons football! Cheer on our team at the Benz as they face the Indianapolis Colts. The perfect festive outing for football fans.
Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium - 1 AMB Dr NW; Time: 1 p.m.; Date: Sunday, Dec. 24; Admission: $28+; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
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