Pictures with Santa, After Dark at Fernbank and more: your guide to an exciting weekend in metro Atlanta
Atlanta is packed with tons of festive energy this weekend. Families can explore new holiday traditions, adults can indulge in themed pop-ups, neighborhood celebrations and more. Here are 10 of the best events happening in and around metro Atlanta.
And take note of Ready, Set, AGLOW! When the sun sets, the woods come alive at WildWoods: AGLOW. This after-hours experience combines art, nature and music at Fernbank Museum, featuring glowing, scenic trails outdoors and nighttime access to museum exhibits inside. Adults can enjoy light bites and cocktails in the AGLOW lounge. Offered select nights for all ages, and exclusively for those ages 21+ during Fernbank After Dark. Learn more at FernbankMuseum.org/AGLOW.
WildWoods: AGLOW
Ready, Set, AGLOW! When the sun sets, the woods come alive at WildWoods: AGLOW. This after-hours experience combines art, nature and music at Fernbank Museum, featuring glowing, scenic trails outdoors and nighttime access to museum exhibits inside. Adults can enjoy light bites and cocktails in the AGLOW lounge. Offered select nights for all ages, and exclusively for those ages 21+ during Fernbank After Dark.
Location: Druid Hills - 767 Clifton Rd NE; Date: Now-February 28; Admission: Free for members, $23.95 and up; Time: Times vary, see website; Website: fernbankmuseum.org
Coca-Cola Caravan
Look out for the Coca-Cola Caravan as it pops up at multiple locations throughout metro Atlanta this weekend. Stop for photo ops with Santa Clause, snag complimentary holiday bags and tags, indulge in limited-edition holiday treats and more.
Location: various Metro Atlanta locations; Date: December 11-13; Admission: Free; Time: Times vary, see website; Website: coca-cola.com
AJC Headline House
This free three-day event is hosted by the AJC and will feature a weekend of powerful conversations, special guest speakers and fun surprises at Krog Street Market.
Location: Inman Park - 99 Krog St NE; Date: December 12-14; Admission: Free; Time: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Website: ajc.com
Winterfest
Join the Virginia Highland community for an exciting lineup of free neighborhood events. The whole family can enjoy a Christmas-themed 5k, a holiday parade down Lanier Blvd and a gift market with tons of local finds.
Location: Virginia Highland area; Date: December 13; Admission: Free; Time: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Website: virginiahighlanddistrict.com
Ugly Sweater Party
The Office Bar is hosting an Ugly Sweater Party packed with live music, themed cocktails, complimentary bites and, of course, an ugly sweater competition.
Location: Midtown Atlanta - 1105 West Peachtree St NW; Date: December 13; Admission: Free; Time: 10 a.m. to 6:30-9 p.m.; Website:
Mele Kalikimaka
Trader Vic’s is turning up with an island-inspired party featuring cultural food stations, live music, drinks and more.
Location: Downtown Atlanta - 255 Courtland St NE; Date: December 13; Admission: Free; Time: 4-8 p.m.; Website: tradervicsatl.com
2025 Cricket Celebration Bowl
Fans are ready to fill up Mercedes-Benz Stadium for this year’s Cricket Celebration Bowl where South Carolina State University will go against Prairie View A&M University for an action-packed afternoon.
Location: Downtown Atlanta - 1 AMB Dr NW; Date: December 13; Admission: $41 and up; Time: Starts at noon; Website: thecelebrationbowl.com
Holiday Karaoke
Sing your heart out at Sweet Auburn BBQ for some fun holiday karaoke, drinks, good food and an ugly sweater competition.
Location: Poncey-Highland - 656 N Highland Ave NE; Date: December 13; Admission: Free; Time: Starts at 9 p.m.; Website: sweetauburnbbq.com
Holiday Juggling Show
If you’re still looking for family-friendly things to do this weekend, this holiday juggling show at Lawrenceville Arts Center is perfect for all ages. Enjoy a live performance from Ron Anglin and surprises throughout the show.
Location: Lawrenceville - 125 N Clayton St; Date: December 13; Admission: $7; Time: 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.; Website: auroratheatre.com
UPS Second Sunday at the High Museum
Explore hands-on activities, exhibits and beautiful galleries at High Museum of Art for UPS Second Sunday. Kids can play in a creative space while can adults also enjoy the art all around.
Location: Midtown Atlanta - 1280 Peachtree Rd NE; Date: December 14; Admission: Free; Time: Noon to 5 p.m.; Website: high.org
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