With prices for just about everything on the rise, Christmas and the holiday season not only feels like the most wonderful time of the year, but the most expensive! Luckily, Atlanta is home to so many free things to do over the holidays that’ll put you in the spirit of the season and make your bank balance look a little jollier, too! Check out these free and festive things to do in Atlanta this holiday season that won’t cost you a thing (of course, you might have to consider a budget for travel).
1. Explore Atlantic Station to see their tree and holiday lights show!
Although it may be home to one of the most impressive pop-up ice-skating rinks in Atlanta, Atlantic Station is decorated to the nines, taking the phrase ‘deck the halls’, to the next level! Just walking around and taking in the festive atmosphere is enough to get you into the holiday spirit. They even ‘let it snow’ every day from 5pm to 9pm every hour, with a special light show to compliment. Click here for more info.
2. Visit Georgia’s largest residential holiday light display
Kennesaw is home to the largest residential holiday lights display in the state, only a (traffic-dependent) 33 minute drive from the center of Atlanta, Lights of Joy has become a beloved holiday tradition for locals and Atlantans alike. There’s over 200 trees and a collection of festive displays boasting over 500K twinkling lights. Click here for more info on this dazzling holiday treat.
3. Experience Dunwoody’s free holiday lights walk-thru
While we’re on the topic of holiday lights, you can find another fabulously free and festive offering in Dunwoody’s Brook Run Park. With a candyland theme and complimentary popcorn and hot cocoa available on site, you’ll leave feeling sweet and in the mood for the holiday season! Click here for more information.
4. Check out a pop-up holiday market in Atlanta
You don’t have to buy anything at a Christmas market to enjoy the festive joy. However, we won’t judge you if you end up caving in for a mulled wine. From our most iconic holiday market in Buckhead to smaller events taking over the city, don’t miss out on our recent round-up of unmissable holiday markets in and around the city this month. Click here to see the full round-up.
5. Take a holiday hike at Atlanta’s gorgeous trails!
Thanks to Georgia’s neutral climate, there’s never a wrong time to go hiking in and around the ATL! From stunning mountain-top views to places to take in that crisp air and Georgia sunshine, click here to see a full round-up of hiking hotspots beloved by Atlantans.
6. Head to Marietta’s Life University for a free light show
If you’re still on the hunt for a more affordable holiday season, then Life University in Marietta annually host an enchanting light display that won’t cost you a penny. Explore the campus at night, as it’s magically transformed into a luminous winter wonderland. For more information, click here.