10 things to do in Atlanta this weekend
Access Atlanta Staff
Get ready for a wonderful, festive weekend in Atlanta!
Immerse yourself in merry at numerous holiday-themed activities and events, ranging from dazzling drag shows to hot chocolate crawls and family-friendly movie screenings. Whether you’re cheering on Georgia at the SEC Championship or celebrating the grand opening of Fulton County Animal Services’ new shelter, this weekend promises unforgettable adventures. Dive into the festive spirit with the exciting lineup below:
Screen on the Square Movie Series
Get cozy at Screen on the Square in Decatur! This Friday features the heartwarming film “Happy Feet,” showcasing Mumble, the tap-dancing penguin.
Location: Downtown Decatur - 101 E Court Square, Decatur, GA 30030; Time: 7 p.m., Date: Friday, Dec. 1; Admission: Free; Website: facebook.com
Neal Francis
Experience NOLA-inspired piano rock with Neal Francis at Variety on Friday night. As Rolling Stone declares, he’s making it cool again. Join for chill vibes, throwback jams, and the perfect night out with friends or a date!
Location: Variety Playhouse - 1099 Euclid Ave NE; Time: 8 p.m.; Date: Friday, Dec. 1; Admission: $30; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Mystic District Marketplace: The Enchanted Slay Ride Edition
Step into a night of mistletoe, magic, and mischief at this exclusive 21+ underground event. Take photos with Krampus, explore mystical vendors, indulge in non-alcoholic magickal elixirs, and immerse yourself in captivating live performances.
Location: Underground Atlanta at MOM SAID ITS FINE - 50 Upper Alabama St; Time: 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Date: Friday, Dec. 1; Admission: $15; Website: frankieandmarley.com
47th Annual College Park Christmas Parade
Jingle all the way to College Park’s Annual Christmas Parade, where 2 Chainz and Tru Foundation INC. lead the way! Local schools, businesses, and organizations spread holiday cheer with the theme “HOLLYWOOD.” Fun for the whole family.
Location: College Park - Main Street, College Park; Time: 9:30-11:30 a.m..; Date: Saturday, Dec. 2; Admission: Free; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Grand Opening of the new Fulton County Animal Services shelter
Celebrate the grand opening of the new Fulton County Animal Services shelter! Enjoy family-friendly activities, adoptable pets, a vendor market, freebies, sweets, treats, a kid zone, and more surprises!
Location: Fulton County Animal Services - 1251 Fulton Industrial Boulevard; Time: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Dec. 2; Admission: Free; Website: facebook.com
Saturdays with Santa
Capture the festive spirit with free selfies with Santa at The Yard (Ponce City Market), on Saturdays (Dec. 2-16), noon to 3 p.m. After, join him for festive drinks at Bar Vegan from 3-4 p.m.
Location: Ponce City Market - 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE; Time: Noon to 4 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Dec. 2; Admission: Free; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Hot Chocolate Crawl
Get in the holiday spirit on Saturday with a festive stroll through Buckhead Village District! Sip on hot chocolate and specialty cocktails while enjoying local musicians and holiday tunes. Free admission, and snag a commemorative campfire mug for a $5 donation to Livable Buckhead.
Location: Buckhead Village District - 3035 Peachtree Rd; Time: 4-7 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Dec. 2; Admission: Free; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
SEC Football Championship: Georgia vs. Alabama
Witness a gridiron showdown as the Georgia Bulldogs and Alabama Crimson Tide clash for the prestigious SEC Championship. With a history of epic battles, Georgia seeks to extend their unbeaten streak since their national championship win in 2022.
And if attending the actual game isn’t in your cards, there are plenty of watch parties around town, including one at STATS Brewpub downtown.
Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium - 1 AMB Dr NW; Time: 4 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Dec. 2; Admission: $350+; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Mariah Carey Holiday Drag Brunch
Ring in the festive season with a glamorous twist at WUSSY Mag’s holiday drag brunch. Indulge in boozy delights and celebrate the Christmas queen in style. Brunch not included in ticket; 21+ event.
Location: City Winery - 650 North Avenue NE; Time: 11:30 a.m. doors, 1 p.m. show; Date: Sunday, Dec. 3; Admission: $25; Website: citywinery.com
Cookies and Cocktails
Indulge in holiday magic at Chamblee’s premier distillery and art hub! Join Cookies by Jenny’s own Jenny Sercer to master the art of cookie decorating. Sip on signature DoMA drinks as you craft festive treats. Tickets at $70 include all materials, plus a delightful cocktail or alcohol-free option.
Location: Distillery of Modern Art - 2197 Irvindale Way, Chamblee, GA 30341; Time: 3 - 5 p.m.; Date: Sunday, Dec. 3; Admission: $70; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Your guide to holiday markets in Atlanta