Every December, the sweet town of Athens transforms into a Christmas town that rivals those in most Hallmark movies. Downtown is lined with lights, the Christmas tree is decorated and displayed by city hall, and the local businesses are all bustling with shoppers. Here are some fantastic events coming up in Athens, GA this holiday season that you won’t want to miss:
The third annual Beechwood Holiday Market will open on Friday, Nov. 25 at 6 p.m. with a Christmas tree lighting and a holiday concert by Atlanta-based band, The Big Beyond.
Opening night will include a giveaway sponsored by some of Beechwood’s brands, including Kendra Scott, Lululemon, Foot Palace, Your Pie, Crunch Fitness, and more. In addition to live music, visitors will enjoy food trucks, Santa photos, hayrides, face painting, s’mores, and hot chocolate.
For additional information, visit: beechwoodathens.com/holiday-market-2022/. To sign up for Holiday Market updates, text “Beechwood' to (833) 946-1799.
It's time to lace up your boots and grab your favorite sweater because Athens on Ice public ice skating season is here!
Grab your ticket now to get ready for the season. The rink will be indoors from November 24 - January 8 and will move outdoors to the 440 Foundry Pavilion from January 27 - March 1. Skate sessions are 90 minutes of fun at only $13 per ticket. Groups of ten or more are eligible for $10 tickets. Want to skate regularly all season? Then grab a season pass for just $100 that will last from November through February! All tickets include skate rental (and smiles) for the session.
Now in its second year, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia at UGA is transforming this holiday season into a glittering winter wonderland of lights. The walk-through light show extravaganza features 11 illuminated displays along a half-mile path that is certain to delight and inspire. Meander with your family and friends and create magical memories among twinkling displays, colorful decorations and a mesmerizing multi-colored light tunnel. The Winter WonderLights show will include a Garden of Delights, Candy Cane Lane and Cone Tree Plaza, among other magical features.
Lighted displays will delight children and adults most evenings from Nov. 23, 2022, through January 8, 2023. The Alice Hand Callaway Visitor Center will be transformed into a holiday market, where guests can shop for gifts and souvenirs. Refreshments such as cookies, s’mores, bottled water, hot chocolate and coffee will be available throughout the light show.
The half-mile trail will take from 45-60 minutes to complete and is fully ADA accessible. Tickets are $15 each, free for children under age 3, and must be purchased online in advance. Winter WonderLights is presented by the University of Georgia.