The holiday light show at the Botanical Gardens, Rudolph the Red-Nose Reindeer at the Center for Puppetry Arts, The Nutcracker ballet at the Fox Theater, and visiting with Santa at Phipps Plaza – Atlanta is filled with classic Christmas traditions that we all look forward to year after year!
But most of the seasonal events in our area either have an admissions fee or a minimum purchase requirement. And with expenses already high in December, this can make it hard to enjoy these holiday outings without added stress. To help offset some of these costs, I’ve started making note of all the free holiday activities I encounter throughout our city each year.
From free Santa photos to neighborhood light displays, here’s my list of the best fun and free holiday events in Atlanta.
Mighty Mo & More! Fox Theatre Sing-Along: Looking to take part in a fun, city tradition? Each year the Fox Theatre’s organist leads a Christmas sing-along while playing the historic “Mighty Mo” organ. Snow can be expected inside the Fox and on Peachtree – and Santa may even make an appearance.
Bass Pro Shop: Did you know that all Bass Pro Shops offer free photos with Santa – and many locations offer free digital Christmas cards and/or picture frames. And visiting with Santa is just half of the fun – the shops are filled with sights and displays that will entertain your kids for hours! Visit the Bass Pro website to learn more and to find a location close to you.
The Forum: This local Peachtree Corners plaza offers free visits with Santa, complimentary carriage rides, and fun story time and festive activities on select weekends in December. Event dates and times can be found on their website.
Christmas in Castille: A beautiful neighborhood display of lights and holiday decorations, this Alpharetta “show” takes place Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays through December 22nd. Show times and details can be found here.
The Governors Mansion: Each December the Governor’s home is beautifully decorated for the holiday season and opened to the public on select days for free holiday tours. Hours vary, so please visit their site for more details on tour dates and times.
The Grinch at Ponce City Market: Both Santa and The Grinch will be making appearances this year at Ponce City Market. The days/times vary, check the official Ponce City Market calendar here.
Hunter’s Christmas Tree Farm: Though you will have to pay for your Christmas tree, the hayrides, Santa visits, cookies and cocoa on Hunter’s Christmas Tree Farm are complimentary. The farm is located in Alpharetta, details and directions can be found here.
