It’s the most magical time of year for a reason. There are so many incredible light displays all around Atlanta. Here is your comprehensive guide to some of my favorites both inside and outside the city limits. Click the links below to get more information, purchase tickets, and further explore the magic.
Inside the Perimeter (ITP)
1. Winter Wonderland Spectacular at the Illuminarium – November 16-January 6 – Enchanting themed environments, plenty of photo opportunities, and family friendly activities including hot cocoa and pictures with Santa.
2. Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden – November 18-January 14 – A holiday tradition in our house, this light show is back for its 13th year. This year features familiar favorites and new installations including Skyline Frost.
3. Illuminights at the Zoo – Zoo Atlanta – November 16-January 14 – Another cherished holiday tradition, Illuminights: A Chinese Lantern Festival features beautifully illuminated wildlife and captivating nature, complete with new lanterns and experiences.
Northwest OTP
4. Holiday in the Park at Six Flags – November 18-December 31 – This year, Holiday in the Park Features multiple live shows and entertainment, a holiday market, the candlelight carousel and so much more!
5. World of Illumination Enchanted Safari at Six Flags White Water – November 15-December 31 – Discover the jingle of the jungle. One of the largest drive-through lights displays has won multiple “best light show” awards for a reason. This drive-through adventure is not one to be missed.
6. Lights of Life at Life University – November 23-December 31 – More than just a lights display, Lights of Life also features train rides, a petting zoo, and concession stands.
7. A Country Christmas at Pettit Creek Farms – November 23-December 30 – Take a lovely drive or hayride through more than a mile of Christmas lights. Stop by Santa’s Cottage or the petting zoo. You can also make s’mores or pick out your Christmas tree too!
8. Holiday Lights of Hope at Hobgood Park – November 24-December 30 – Walk through a 2 million light display; visit Santa; enjoy treats, music, and concessions. Proceeds benefit Anna Crawford Children’s Center.
9. Magic of Lights at Dixie Speedway – November 17-December 31 – Drive through more than a mile of dazzling holiday lights including several brand new displays: Holiday Barbie, Monster Trucks, and life-sized dinosaurs
North OTP
10. Holiday Lights at Brook Run Park – December 1-31 – This self-guided walkable display includes free hot cocoa, and concessions from Top Job Beverages and DonutNV Atlanta. This display is free and runs nightly through December.
11. Lights over Alpharetta at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre – November 24-Decemeber 30 – Driving nights are Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays or you have the option to walk on Tuesdays, Thursdays, or Sundays. The kids can also take photos with Santa on select nights.
12. Holiday Lights at Veteran’s Park – November 18-December 31 – This two-mile drive-thru light show features a canopy tunnel, and so much more. Plus, you can drive through as many times as you like.
13. Lakeside Lights Spectacular – Margaritaville at Lanier Islands – November 22-January 15 – This display offers a night of nostalgic wintery fun. Take a magical walk through an amazing lighting extravaganza with festive seasonal music.
Northeast OTP
14. Stone Mountain Christmas at Stone Mountain Park – Now-January 2 – Don’t miss the world’s largest Christmas Light Show. Celebrate the spirit of the season with this 20-minute experience and don’t forget to catch Santa’s big flight!
15. Glow Light Show & Festival at Coolray Field – November 24-December 31st – Stroll through this brand new holiday festival, and enjoy an evening of lights and bites. Admission is free and the festival includes food and beverage vendors, photo installations, games, and rides for kids.
16. Winter Lantern Festival at Gwinnet County Fairgrounds – Now-January 2 – Step into a dazzling world of light with over 1000 Chinese lanterns, all handmade by artisans with decades of experience. A whimsical walk-through experience that will light up and warm your holiday season!
There are so many ways to celebrate around Atlanta this holiday season. Which display is your favorite? Did I leave any off of the list? Leave a comment below and share.
