Free Things to do in December in Atlanta

By Carol Carter and Joleen Pete

Last Updated December 2, 2025

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Atlanta shines bright during the holiday season, offering plenty of ways to celebrate without spending a dime. Whether you’re walking through twinkling lights, discovering public art or soaking in the city’s festive energy, December is full of free things to do in Atlanta that capture the magic of the season.

Back to Nature Holiday Market at Chattahoochee Nature Center

Shop local and celebrate the season at the Back to Nature Holiday Market at Chattahoochee Nature Center. This free community event takes place Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring local artisans with handmade and eco-friendly gifts. Browse jewelry, candles, artwork and nature-inspired treasures while enjoying the scenic trails and peaceful surroundings of the center. It’s a festive way to find thoughtful gifts, support local makers and enjoy a day immersed in nature.

Celebrate the Holidays Downtown

Centennial Olympic Park glows each winter with sparkling light displays and the sound of carols wafting through downtown. It’s a picture-perfect spot for an evening stroll or a family selfie with the Atlanta skyline in the background. While you’re nearby, peek into the holiday decor around the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola for an extra dose of cheer.

Cricket Celebration Bowl Coca-Cola Fan Experience

The 2025 Cricket Celebration Bowl kicks off at noon Dec. 13 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This year’s matchup will once again feature champions from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and the Southwestern Athletic Conference in a celebration of HBCU pride and excellence.

Before the game, fans can enjoy the Coca-Cola Fan Experience at the Georgia World Congress Center’s International Plaza from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.

On Dec. 12, ESPN Events will present the Band of the Year Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, showcasing the top marching bands from historically Black colleges and universities.

Dr. Pepper SEC Fanfare

Football fans can kick off championship weekend at the Dr. Pepper SEC FanFare, a free two-day celebration at the Georgia World Congress Center. Taking place Dec. 5 and 6, the event brings together fans from across the Southeast for interactive games, live broadcasts and photo ops with team mascots and cheerleaders. It’s a lively way to soak up the energy ahead of the SEC Championship Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium with plenty of fun for families and fans of all ages.

Midtown Bright

Midtown glows once again this holiday season as Peachtree Street transforms into a dazzling display of light and color. Stretching nearly 2 miles, the annual installation features more than 200,000 LED lights and 121 trees wrapped in vibrant hues, along with 23 Moravian stars ranging from 3- to 23-feet tall.

Stroll along Peachtree Street and take in the festive sights at landmarks like Emory University Hospital Midtown, Fox Theatre, the Midtown MARTA station, Colony Square, Woodruff Arts Center, the Margaret Mitchell House, the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta and Peachtree Pointe.

Miracle on Peachtree

Now in its fifth year, Miracle on Peachtree returns to Buckhead to fill Peachtree Road with holiday cheer from Dec. 5 through 13. The celebration features sparkling lights, live music, carolers and festive events throughout the neighborhood.

Visitors can shop at Lenox Square or Buckhead Village, or simply enjoy the twinkling displays for free. The annual Hot Chocolate Crawl adds a sweet touch to the festivities, making it easy to sip, stroll and soak up the magic of the season. A $5 donation to Livable Buckhead will get you a commemorative campfire mug to take home as a holiday keepsake.

See the City Sparkle

Local communities light up December with tree lightings, parades and neighborhood festivals that bring everyone together. From downtown Atlanta to the surrounding suburbs, you’ll find twinkling displays and cheerful gatherings nearly every weekend.

In Dunwoody, Brook Run Park shines with its annual Holiday Lights celebration, while East Point’s tree lighting fills the city center with music, food trucks and family fun. Buckhead kicks off the season with the Miracle on Peachtree tree lighting, complete with carolers and cocoa, and Midtown sparkles during the Peachtree Street light display that stretches for nearly two miles.

Smaller neighborhoods join the fun with free community celebrations across metro Atlanta. From Decatur Square to Marietta’s historic downtown, discover where to watch holiday lights.

Stroll Along the Atlanta Beltline

Cooler temps make December the perfect time to explore the Atlanta Beltline. The trail connects vibrant neighborhoods like Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward and Midtown, weaving past murals, sculptures and skyline views. Pack a thermos of cocoa and enjoy the city’s creative spirit on a winter walk. For the ultimate people watching at Piedmont Park, spectate The Atlanta Jingle Bell Jog 5K, where participants will all be donning a Santa suit and jingle bells. (Participate yourself for $40 or run the Elf Dash for $20. Pre-registration required.)

Virginia-Highland Winterfest Holiday Parade

One of Atlanta’s most beloved neighborhood traditions, the Virginia-Highland Winterfest Holiday Parade brings festive cheer to the tree-lined streets of one of the city’s most charming districts. Families and friends gather along Lanier Boulevard to watch colorful floats, costumed characters and local groups march by in holiday spirit. The free parade kicks off Dec. 13 at 10 a.m., followed by live music, a holiday market and seasonal fun throughout the neighborhood.

Winter House

Step into the season at Callanwolde Winter House, where art, history and holiday spirit come together inside one of Atlanta’s most elegant estates. Once the home of Charles Howard Candler, the eldest son of Coca-Cola founder Asa Griggs Candler, the mansion glows with festive décor, creative workshops and family-friendly fun.

Guests can enjoy free admission to explore the historic rooms, browse artist installations and snap a photo with Santa. Favorite activities include Blitzen’s Bingo, Holiday Story Time and hands-on art projects led by local instructors. Some workshops and performances require advance registration and a few activities have small fees.

Winter House will be open Nov. 29 and 30, Dec. 4 through 7 and Dec. 11 through 14.

Make the most of the holidays in the City in a Forest. Plan your perfect December adventure with our ultimate guide to winter in Atlanta.

Carol Carter was a founding staff member of Atlanta Business Chronicle where she later served as editor. She served as editor of seven magazines including a 150-year business history of Atlanta. She worked as a reporter for WXIA TV’s Noonday Show, has written for the New York Times and is a graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism. Carol is author of “Junior Dragster Dreams: How Sam Found His Own Ride,” a children’s book.

Joleen Pete is a storyteller and dream-weaver, inspired by the magic in everyday moments and the untold stories waiting to be shared.

Originally Published October 20, 2025