The holiday season in Atlanta is the perfect time to embrace the chilly weather, get in the festive mood, and enjoy some live performances. Whether you're a fan of classic holiday productions, concerts, or family-friendly festivities, there's something for everyone happening in and around the city. The charm, the lights, and the decorations make this time of year magical, but there's nothing that quite gets you in the holiday spirit like a live performance. The holiday season is just not complete without experiencing the joy of theater, music, and dance. These live performances transport you to a magical world and sprinkle you with the essence of the season. Additionally, attending these events is a great way to support local nonprofits. So, get ready to enjoy the finest performers, the best music, and the festive holiday celebrations, and make some unforgettable memories this holiday season in Atlanta!
Must-See Performances:
Atlanta has some of the most exciting holiday performances this year, and you won't want to miss out on these three must-see shows. First up is "The Nutcracker" at the Cobb Energy Centre. The iconic Tchaikovsky score played live by the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra is sure to transport you and your family into a magical winter wonderland. This reimagined production will feature falling snowflakes, twirling flowers, spinning stars, and a dreamlike world that is truly extravagant.
Next, head to the Michael C. Carlos Museum for "Santa's Favorite Chamber Music." Join Old Saint Nick himself as he leads a sing-a-long of some of his favourite classical music pieces. You and your family will be treated to a joyful celebration of the holiday season, filled with beautiful music and festive cheer.
Finally, rock out this holiday season with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s "The Ghosts of Christmas Eve." This electrifying performance at Gas South Arena will feature the best of TSO and is sure to leave you feeling pumped and energised! These shows are the perfect way to add some holiday cheer to your day and create memories that will last a lifetime. Book your tickets soon, as they are sure to sell out.
Holiday Concerts and Shows
Looking to sit back and experience the magic of Christmas through beautiful music? Then, Atlanta has got you covered! Grab your loved ones and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with an array of performances and shows to choose from.
First up, witness the melodious Carols by Candlelight at First Baptist Church Marietta. What better way to kick-start the festive season than with soulful carols sung by a choir followed by an enchanting candlelight procession?
For a star-studded experience, head to Atlanta Symphony Hall for Sarah Brightman: A Christmas Symphony. Get awestruck by the heavenly voice singing some classic and favourite holiday tunes.
Or if you're in the mood for something more traditional, then head to the Schwartz Center for Performing Arts for Christmas with Atlanta Master Chorale. Enjoy music that radiates love, joy, and peace to add more cheer and warmth to the holiday season.
Whatever your musical preferences are, these holiday concerts and shows are sure to lift your spirits and leave you humming the tunes long after the show is over. So, book your seats now, and let the magic of music take over!
Family-Friendly Festivities
Festive Features Special Exhibition at Center for Puppetry Arts, Georgia Festival of Trees at Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center and Winter House 2023 at Callanwolde Fine Arts Center are all ideal options for family-friendly festivities this holiday season. In the Festive Features Special Exhibition, visitors can see the rare Santa and Rudolph puppets from the original Rankin & Bass TV production up close. The all-inclusive ticket includes a live performance, museum admission, and a Create-A-Puppet Workshopâ„¢, ensuring plenty of fun for the whole family.
The Georgia Festival of Trees features a forest of dazzling Christmas trees available for auction, live music and entertainment, a gingerbread contest, Christmas Brick Challenge, kids’ activities and games, boutique gift shops, food carts and more. But the best part of it all is that all proceeds from the event and holiday tree sales will benefit Street Grace and Atlanta Redemption Ink, local nonprofits that support the festival’s mission to end human trafficking.
Winter House 2023 at Callanwolde Fine Arts Center is also worth checking out, complete with its well-loved winter tradition filled with art and holiday cheer. Callanwolde is a grand historic mansion that will transport visitors to a world of fantasy and wonder that is perfect for children. Overall, these family-friendly events cater to both parents and children, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season. So, bring the whole family and make some unforgettable holiday memories!
Nativity Scenes and Pageants
Nativity scenes and pageants are an important part of celebrating the holiday season, and Atlanta has some great options to choose from. At Mountain View United Methodist Church, you can take part in The Nativity Bethlehem Walk where you can travel back in time and experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the very first Christmas. At Ferst Center for the Arts, experience Black Nativity: A Gospel Christmas Musical Experience which tells the story of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem through old-fashioned spirituals. For a more immersive experience, check out Drive-Thru Christmas Pageant at Trinity Presbyterian Church where children recreate the familiar scenes of Bethlehem. All of these pageants are a great way to get into the spirit of the season and make memories that will last a lifetime. Just don't forget your camera!
Other Holiday Events
Other Holiday Events: Looking for more holiday events beyond Atlanta? Check out Victorian Christmas at Hardman Farm Historic Site and Christmas Traditions House Tour at Jarrell Plantation Historic Site. At Hardman Farm Historic Site, you can see the mansion dressed in period holiday décor and learn about Victorian Christmas traditions from the 1870s. Meanwhile, at Jarrell Plantation Historic Site, you can tour the original plantation home from the 1800s and see how Christmas was celebrated during that era. Both events are a great way to experience the holidays with a touch of history.
Conclusion
It's the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to celebrate the holidays in Atlanta than with a variety of live performances and shows? From magical ballets to heartwarming concerts, there's something for everyone to enjoy. But it's not just about the entertainment - by attending these events, you're also supporting local nonprofits that work towards important causes such as ending human trafficking. So go ahead, get into the holiday spirit and make a difference in your community - all while having a blast!