2020 Holiday Happenings in Downtown Atlanta

Sparkling lights, new twists on beloved traditions, fresh air and fresh greenery: Downtown is decked for the holiday season. Read on for ways to safely enjoy the season with your loved ones. 

PRISM: Winter Lights at Woodruff Park

Back for its second year, PRISM: Winter Lights at Woodruff Park, presented by the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District and curated by Dashboard, is a 2-month art exhibition displaying works by artists from around the country. The second year of PRISM: Winter Lights will explore the theme of water and feature three light-based landmark sculptures installed on the park’s main lawn + a projection mapping effort that showcases animated artwork on the park’s International Peace Fountain water wall. On view December 5 - January 31

Thanks for Giving Coat Drive

ADID’s Social Impact Safety Team, A.S.I.S.T., invites community members to donate new or gently used winter apparel for children and adults experiencing homelessness. Hats, gloves, scarves, and coats contributed to the “Thanks for Giving” drive will be distributed to homeless service providers and utilized during A.S.I.S.T.’s outreach activities. Donations can be dropped off at receptacles located at The Ellis Hotel, Center Parc Credit Union, and Ray's in the City.

Atlanta Festival of Trees - Online

Each holiday season, the Embassy Suites by Hilton at Centennial Olympic Park raises money and awareness for local charities by inviting charitable organizations to set up and decorate Christmas trees in the hotel atrium to which anyone can donate to the tree/organization that they wish. This year, the Festival of Trees has gone online! Visit photos of wonderful tree displays from prior years and consider donating to their worthy causes if you are able during this season of giving.

Georgia Aquarium Programs for Grownups 

On December 4, guests 21 and older are encouraged to wear their holiday best (or worst!) for Sips Under the Sea Lite: Tacky Sweater Night. And, ugly sweater or not, all guests must wear a safe and appropriate facial covering for the night. Return on December 17 for Sounds of the SEAson, a one-of-a-kind socially distanced evening with extended hours and the music of two hometown bands. | PLUS: View the attraction's holiday gift guide - proceeds go to the amazing research and conservation work that goes on at Georgia Aquarium.

Cookies with Santa at Zoo Atlanta

Bring the little ones for a personal visit with Santa and a professional photo. Warm up with hot chocolate and cookies before visiting the Zoo! Come dressed in your festive face mask for a socially distanced photo with Santa your family will always remember. December 5 and 6 

Victorian Holiday at Oakland Cemetery

Indulge in the seasonal spirit at Oakland Cemetery! Returning for its sixth year, Victorian Holiday is a unique seasonal open house with holiday activities for the whole family! No tickets required. Enjoy the Holiday Green Market, a Pop-Up Shop at the Bell Tower, the Holiday Hunt, and more. December 5 and 6 | PLUS: Order your holiday wreath from Oakland by December 15.

A Christmas Carol: The Live Radio Play

The sounds of the season come to life in the Alliance Theatre's brand new, interactive experience A Christmas Carol: The Live Radio Play. ​Hear the bells jingle on the streets of Victorian England as you're transported back in time with Ebenezer Scrooge, Marley, and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future.​ Load up your sleigh (or car) in front of our drive-in theatre stage and big screen for an evening of stories, singalongs, and honking horns.​ The production is taking place in Atlanta’s Summerhill neighborhood in the parking lot of Georgia State University’s Center Parc Credit Union Stadium. December 4-23

Deck the Hall

Join us for Deck the Hall this holiday season! The Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame will be in full swing with bright holiday decorations and cheer, appearances from Fumbles the Elf and our must see college football experience! December 3 - January 3

Holiday Celebrations at Children's Museum of Atlanta

This month, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta celebrates the traditions and tales of Las Posadas, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa through decorations, interactive music, crafts, storytimes, and more! Each weekend will feature a unique holiday exploration. December 5-31

World of Coca-Cola Holiday Cheer

The holidays are in full swing at World of Coca-Cola. Guests can safely celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at one of Atlanta’s must-see holiday attractions – complete with dazzling lights and decorations, special exhibits and seasonal beverages. New and limited-time exhibits include “Scent Discovery,” “History of the Coca-Cola Santa” and “A Coca-Cola Christmas Celebration.” Fans can have a cup of cheer and sample the holiday beverages they have come to expect each season. Through January 1

Featured image courtesy of World of Coca-Cola