HOLIDAY & WINTER EVENTS IN ATHENS, GA

Where Can I see Holiday Lights?

Winter WonderLights:

Experience the magic of the holiday season at Winter WonderLights, returning to the State Botanical Garden of Georgia on select evenings from November 19 through December 30, 2026! With more than 2 million sparkling lights, this beloved Athens holiday tradition transforms the garden into a winter wonderland. Stroll along a half-mile illuminated trail featuring festive displays, colorful light tunnels, and dazzling attractions like Jingle Bell Lane and the Northern Lights. Along the way, enjoy hot chocolate, roast marshmallows for s'mores, and browse the holiday market for seasonal gifts.

The fully accessible trail takes approximately 45–60 minutes to explore, making it a great holiday activity for families, couples, and visitors of all ages. Tickets are $15 per person or $18 on peak nights, plus taxes and fees, with free admission for children ages 3 and under. Tickets must be purchased online in advance, with timed entry beginning at 5:30 p.m. Don't miss one of Athens' most magical Christmas light displays this holiday season!

Plus!

Check out the new holiday lights downtown, along Clayton and College streets! 

Where Can I go Ice Skating?

Ice Skating in Athens:

Bundle up and get ready for some winter fun in Athens, GA! Athens on Ice returns to The Classic Center's 440 Foundry Pavilion for the 2026–2027 winter season, bringing outdoor ice skating to the heart of downtown Athens. Whether you're planning a family outing, a festive date night, or a fun activity with friends, Athens on Ice is a great way to celebrate the season. With public skating sessions, skate rentals included with admission, and special Toddler Skate opportunities for children ages five and under, there's something for skaters of all ages and experience levels. Visit The Classic Center's Athens on Ice page for the latest skating schedules, ticket information, and seasonal updates.

Looking for more action on the ice? Catch the Athens Rock Lobsters as they take on their third season of professional hockey, now competing in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL)! The Rock Lobsters, along with UGA's Ice Dawgs and women's hockey team, bring exciting matchups to downtown Athens at Akins Ford Arena. Whether you're cheering from the stands or gifting tickets to a hockey fan, there's plenty of winter entertainment to enjoy.

While visiting The Classic Center, keep an eye out for the festive Tinsel Trail, a downtown Athens holiday tradition featuring decorated Christmas trees sponsored by local businesses and community organizations. It's a great way to enjoy the holiday atmosphere before or after ice skating, a hockey game, or another seasonal event at The Classic Center.

Family-Friendly Holiday Activities:

Make magical holiday memories with the whole family in Athens, GA! From sparkling Christmas lights to festive winter activities, Athens has plenty of ways for families to celebrate the season together. Take a stroll through millions of twinkling lights at Winter WonderLights at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, lace up your skates for some fun at Athens on Ice at The Classic Center, or enjoy a holiday performance that's sure to get everyone in the Christmas spirit. Families can also explore local holiday markets, shop for one-of-a-kind gifts, and soak up the festive atmosphere around downtown Athens. Whether you're planning a fun-filled winter break or starting a new holiday tradition, Athens offers plenty of family-friendly activities to make the season extra special! Listed below are few options that are sure to bring some holiday cheer!

When are the Holiday Markets in Athens?

Athens' creative community shines a little brighter during the holiday season! From the Indie South Holiday Hooray to the Athens Farmers Market Holiday Artist Market, Athens, GA, is full of opportunities to shop local and find one-of-a-kind gifts. Explore seasonal favorites like the Athens Holiday Market, the Beechwood Shopping Center Holiday Market and other pop-up markets around town, where you'll discover handmade jewelry, local artwork, pottery, home décor, and more from talented Athens artists and makers.

Whether you're shopping for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or simply treating yourself, Athens' holiday markets make gift shopping a festive experience. Bring your family or friends, discover something special, and support local businesses while you're at it!

Looking for more places to shop? Explore our Holiday Markets in Athens roundup, browse the events calendar for upcoming holiday activities, or check out the Athens Holiday Gift Guide for even more local gift ideas.

Local Athens Gift Ideas

Give the Gift of Athens Entertainment!

Athens has long been known for its creative culture and live music scene. There are performances and concerts almost every night of the week, so there are bound to be plenty shows that you know you want to be at! What a great opportunity to give the gift of Athens entertainment by buying tickets for you and your family or friends to attend a show at the Akins Ford Arena, The Classic Center Theatre, UGA Performing Arts Center, fabulous 40 Watt Club, the Georgia Theatre, or your other favorite Athens venue!

Christmas Concerts & Performances:
 

Get into the holiday spirit with festive concerts, dazzling performances, and seasonal entertainment in Athens, GA! From Christmas music and holiday plays to beloved traditions like The Nutcracker, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate the season. The Classic Center Theatre in the heart of downtown Athens and the UGA Performing Arts Center offer wonderful settings for live performances throughout the year. Whether you're planning a festive family outing, a holiday date night, or an evening out with friends, Athens' seasonal shows are a great way to make lasting holiday memories.

Explore the holiday concerts, shows, and performances listed below to plan your 2026 holiday entertainment!

Holiday Performances at The Classic Center:

For a diverse lineup of Broadway shows, concerts, comedy, and live performances in the heart of Athens, The Classic Center Theatre has much to offer

Holiday Performances At The UGA Performing Arts Center:

For world-class music, dance, and live performances featuring renowned artists and ensembles from around the globe, see what the UGA Performing Arts Center has to offer.

Looking for even more holiday entertainment?

Explore the festive performances and seasonal shows Athens has to offer below.

Plan Your Holiday Getaway to Athens

Turn your holiday visit to Athens, GA, into a festive weekend getaway! With holiday lights, seasonal performances, local shopping, and plenty of delicious dining options, there's more than enough to fill a weekend in the Classic City. Spend an afternoon exploring the shops and boutiques of downtown Athens, grab a bite at one of our local restaurants, and end your evening with a holiday concert or a stroll through Winter WonderLights at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. For Winter WonderLights, plan to spend approximately 45–60 minutes exploring the illuminated trail and be sure to purchase timed-entry tickets in advance.

Make a full weekend out of your visit by booking a stay at one of Athens' hotels and accommodations and exploring even more of the city's shopping destinations. Before your trip, browse our events calendar for upcoming holiday markets, performances, and family-friendly activities, or check out our Athens itineraries for more ideas on how to spend your time. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a couples' getaway, or a festive weekend with friends, Athens makes it easy to celebrate the season your way!