December 9-27: "Black Nativity; A Holiday Gospel Celebration (A True Colors Production – Kenny Leon) http://truecolorstheatre.org/blacknativity
Southwest Arts Center
915 New Hope Road (off of Cascade Road)
Atlanta, GA 30331
(404) 613-3220
$30 adults/ $20 Children & Seniors(65)
December - January 15, 2010: "Staff Participation: An Exhibition featuring works by Professional Artist, Employees of the Department of Arts and Culture"
Open Reception, Saturday, December 5, 2009, 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Southwest Arts Center
915 New Hope Road
Atlanta, GA 30331
(404) 613-3220
Contact Person: Karinder Richardson-Williams
December 12-January 15, 2010: Holidays Aglow Exhibition and Artist Market (12-12-09, 7:00pm-10:00pm)
Southwest Arts Center (Studio Building)
915 New Hope Road
Atlanta, GA 30331
(404) 613-3220
Presented by the Southwest Arts Center in partnership with the African Americans for the Arts
December: Holiday Jazz at Darnell Center (Time to be Announced)
Southwest Arts Center
915 New Hope Road
Atlanta, GA 30331
(404) 613-3220
Festive Theater
The Littlest Elf. Kudzu Playhouse. A cheerful story of Sparky the elf and her quest to help Santa as he prepares for Christmas. Dec. 2-19. Wed.-Sat., 11 a.m. 10743 Alpharetta Hwy., Roswell. 770-594-1020. Tickets, $6.50/person.
A Christmas Carol. Towne Lake Arts Center. The story of Ebeneezer Scrooge and the four spirits who changed his life. Dec. 4-24. Fri.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m. Also 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 22, 23 and 2 p.m. Dec. 24. 6576 Commerce Pkwy., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. Adults, $12; children 12 and under, $8.
G.I. Holiday Jukebox. Stage Door Players. Set during WWII at Christmastime, this musical production gives the best of ‘40s holiday music. Dec. 4-20. Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 2:30 p.m. 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody. 770-396-1726. Adults, $24; children, $12.
Madeline’s Christmas: The Musical. The Legacy Theatre. Beloved character Madeline comes to life in this holiday story. Dec. 5, 12 and 19. 11 a.m. 1175 Senoia Rd., Tyrone. 404-895-1473. $10/person.
The Littlest Angel. Theatre on Main. A musical Christmas story about a pesky little rascal who is transformed into a perfect angel. Dec. 5-25. Sat., 1 and 3 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m. 4857 N. Main St., Acworth. 770-565-3995. $10/person.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Fox Theatre. Enjoy the high-kicking Rockettes in this special holiday showcase. Through Dec. 6. Visit www.foxtheatre.org for tickets. 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 800-745-3000/ Tickets, $25.50-$65.50.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. The Art Place Mountain-View. Center Stage North’s funny story of a family’s attempt to put on a Christmas pageant with a cast of terribly misbehaved children. Dec. 11-20. Visit www.centerstagenorth.org for dates and show times. 3330 Sandy Plains Rd., Marietta. 770-516-3330. Tickets, $10.
It’s A Wonderful Life. Newnan Community Theatre Company. Watch the classic story of believing in Santa and the Christmas spirit. Dec. 11-20. Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 2:30 p.m. 24 1st Ave., Newnan. 770-683-6282. Tickets, $10-$15.
The Homecoming. The Grand Theatre. The family’s father is missing and Christmas Eve is quickly approaching. Will he return in time for the holiday? Dec. 11-12. 7 p.m. 7 N. Wall St., Cartersville. 770-386-7343. Adults, $15; children, $10.
Tales for the Holidays. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Fun storytelling about holiday traditions and folklore. Dec. 12. 11 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Adults, $8; children, $5.
The Little Drummer Boy. Woodstock Community Church. Story of Daniel, who receives a handmade drum and travels with his family to Bethlehem. Dec. 12-24. Sat., 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Also 10 a.m. on Dec. 22, 23 and 24. Main St., Downtown Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $5/person.
Amahl and the Night Visitors. The Balzer Theatre at Herren’s. This is a holiday story of all faiths that teaches giving and community support. Dec. 13-23. Visit www.theatricaloutfit.org for show times. 84 Luckie St., Atlanta. 678-528-1500. Tickets, $25/person.
Madeline’s Christmas. Horizon Theatre. Musical play adopted from the beloved books by Ludwig Bemelman, this is the story of the 12 little girls who come down with the flu before Christmas. Dec. 13-Jan. 3. Visit www.Horizontheatre.com for show times. 1083 Austin Ave., Atlanta. 404-584-7450. Adults, $15; children, $12.
Holiday Variety Show. Milton Center Theatre. RISPA School of Performing Arts presents a holiday variety show featuring scenes from Shrek, the Musical, and holiday music and dance numbers. Dec. 18-19. Fri., 7 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 7 p.m. 86 School Dr., Alpharetta. 678-620-3500. $12.50/person.
The Winter Polar Express. Roswell Cultural Arts Center. An enchanting holiday show for all ages presented by the Academy Dance Company. Follows a young girl’s adventure on a train to the North Pole. Dec. 18-19. Fri., 7 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 7 p.m. 950 Forest St., Roswell. 770-578-8272. Adults, $12; children, $10.
Holiday Puppet Shows. Atlanta Botanical Garden. See the puppets perform Santa’s Missing Mail. Through Dec. 19. 10:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $15; children 3-17, $12; under 3, free.
Yes Virginia, There is a Santa Claus. ACT 1 Theatre. True story of 8-year-old Virginia Hanlon, who wrote a letter to the New York Sun in 1897 asking if Santa was real. Through Dec. 19. Fri.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. 180 Academy St., Alpharetta. 770-663-8989. Adults, $15; children under 12, $12.
Christmas Canteen. Aurora Theatre. Lively holiday performance with music and dancing. Through Dec. 20. See www.auroratheatre.com for show times. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $14-$30.
A Tuna Christmas. The Legacy Theatre. Celebrate Christmas in Tuna, Texas along with the rest of the gang from the state’s third smallest town. Through Dec. 20. Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 3 p.m. 1175 Senoia Rd., Tyrone. 404-895-1473. Adults, $25; students, $20.
Babes in Toyland. Kudzu Playhouse. Mary and her mother tour Toyland and battle evil Barnaby and his son. Through Dec. 24. Sat.-Sun., 2 p.m.; Dec. 5, 12, 19, 22 and 23, 7 p.m. 10743 Alpharetta Hwy., Roswell. 770-594-1020. $8.75/person.
Larry, Carlos and Mo. The Fox Theatre. A one-night Christmas carol sing-along with the theatre’s organists, plus a screening of the movie A Christmas Story. Dec. 21. 7 p.m. 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 800-745-3000. Free, but guests must request tickets on www.ticketmaster.com.
A Christmas Carol. Kudzu Playhouse. The classic tale of Ebeneezer Scrooge and the three ghosts of Christmas. Through Dec. 24. Visit www.kudzuplayhouse.org for show times. 10743 Alpharetta Hwy., Roswell. 770-594-1020. Tickets, $13-$19.50.
A Christmas Carol. Alliance Theatre. Musical performance of Tiny Tim and Scrooge. Through Dec. 24. Visit www.alliancetheatre.org for show times. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4713. Adults, $25-$45; children, $17.50-$31.50.
Sanders Family Christmas. Theatre in the Square. The gospel singing Sanders family celebrates Christmas during WWII. Through Jan. 3. Wed., 2:30 p.m.; Tues.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 2:30 p.m. 11 Whitlock Ave., Marietta. 770-422-8369. Tickets, $20-$35.
The Shoemaker and the Elves. Center for Puppetry Arts. Join elves Frankie and Gino as they help save the Footmeyer family’s shoe business. Through Jan. 3. Visit www.puppet.org for show times. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3089. $8/person.
Hanukkah Celebrations
Chanukah Wonderland. Fountains of Olde Town Shopping Center. Visit the amazing Dreidel House and Chanukah Lego Land, catch live shows, and enjoy seasonal treats. Dec. 10, 13-15. Thurs., 3:30-8 p.m.; Sun., 12:30-7 p.m.; Mon.-Tues., 3:30-8 p.m. 736 Johnson Ferry Rd., Marietta. 770-565-4412. Free.
Chanukah Havdallah. Marcus Jewish Community Center. A special Chanukah Havdallah for families. Event includes snacks, stories and crafts. Ages 8 and under. Dec. 12. 6-8 p.m. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody. 678-812-4000. Free.
Light the Hanukkah Menorah. East Cobb Park. Light the Menorah and enjoy light refreshments at the park. Dec. 13. 7 p.m. 3322 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-591-3160. Free.
Meet the Holidays: Hanukkah. Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Listen to storytellers’ tales about Hanukkah traditions and make a dreidel on Sunday. Dec. 19-20. Sat., noon; Sun., 11 a.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-653-9277. Adults and children older than 2, $12.50; under 2, free.
Holiday Houses
Candlelight Nights. Atlanta History Center. Take a candlelit tour of the center’s gardens, trails and historic homes. Event also includes holiday carols and guided lantern tours of Tullie Smith Farm. Dec. 8 and 15. 5:30-9 p.m. 130 West Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Adults, $15; children, $7.
Atlanta Holiday House and Decorators Show Home. Atlanta Holiday House. Tour the 22,000-square-foot French estate to see room-by-room holiday décor, compliments of Atlanta’s top designers. Proceeds benefit the Save a Smile foundation. Through Dec. 20. Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 3410 Ridgewood Rd., Atlanta. 404-217-7343. Advanced tickets, $20; $25 at door.
I Collect Christmas! Barrington Hall. Sort through antique holiday collectibles, like 19th-century ornaments and vintage nutcrackers. Through Dec. 30. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sun., 1-3 p.m. 535 Barrington Dr., Roswell. 770-640-3855. Adults, $8; children ages 6-12, $6; under 6, free.
The 12 Days of Christmas. Bulloch Hall. Enjoy the historic hall decorated for the 12 days of Christmas. Through Jan. 3, 2010. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sun., 1-3 p.m. 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell. 770-992-1731. Adults, $8; children $6.
Winter Wonderland. Smith Plantation. Enjoy seasonal decorations at the Plantation. Through Jan. 10. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sun., 1-3 p.m. 935 Alpharetta St., Roswell. 770-641-3978. Adults, $8; children 6-18, $6; under 6, free.
Holiday Crafts and Markets
Christmas House Arts and Crafts Show. Mable House. Find gifts among the selection of hundreds of handmade items. Dec. 4-13. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. 5239 Floyd Rd., Mableton. 770-819-3285. Free.
Holiday Bazaar. The Atlanta Academy. Santa’s Workshop and Holiday Bazaar includes a wide variety of gifts, baked goods, and arts and crafts for your last-minute holiday shopping. December 11. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
2000 Holcomb Woods Parkway, Roswell. 678-461-6102. Free.
Holiday Lights and Market. Historic Grant Park. Enjoy live entertainment, sparkling lights
and an artists’ market based on the tradition of European Advent Markets. Dec. 11-13. Fri., 3-9 p.m.; Sat., noon-10 p.m.; Sun., noon- 7 p.m. Grant Park, Atlanta. 404-521-0938. Free.
Second Sunday Funday: A World of Holidays. High Museum of Art. Make solstice candles, design prints with holiday symbols, create an Islamic Eid Card, and listen to Hanukah and Christmas music. Dec. 13, 1-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4444. Free for members, free with admission for non-members: adults, $18; children 6-17, $11; under 6, free.
Holiday Art & Antique Market. Atlantic Station. Festival-style market features handmade antiques from local vendors, including art, jewelry and food. Weekends in Dec. Sat., 11 a.m.-sunset; Sun., noon-sunset. Midtown Atlanta. 404-260-3567. Free.
Mistletoe Market. Arts Clayton Gallery. Arts and crafts festival with jewelry, glass, wood, ceramics, photography and more. Through Dec. 19. Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat.,
10 a.m.-4 p.m.136 S. Main St., Jonesboro. 770-473-5457. Free.
The Holiday Shops. Atlantic Station. Open-air booths selling unique holiday gifts, ornaments and decorations. Through Dec. 31. Daily, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Midtown Atlanta. 404-260-3567. Free.
Holly Jolly Events
Winterfest. Tanglewood Farm. Have your photo taken aboard a miniature sleigh, listen to Christmas carols see the decorated trees and take a pony or hay ride. Dec. 1-31. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 171 Tanglewood Dr., Canton. 770-667-6464. $10/person.
Holiday Tree Lighting. Downtown Kennesaw. Enjoy holiday tunes, warm beverages and cookies as you watch the magnificent lighting of the tree. Dec. 3. 6 p.m. The Depot, downtown Kennesaw. 770-422-9714. Free.
Decatur Holiday Candlelight Tour of Homes. Decatur. Tour eight homes in the Great Lakes/Clairemont area, plus Clairemont Elementary School’s Holiday Marketplace and Café. Dec. 4-5. 5:30-9:30 p.m. See www.decaturtourofhomes.com for stops along the tour. Tickets, $20 in advance; $25 at
the door.
Holiday Lights. East Cobb Park. Come to the park for performances by the children’s choir, the brass quartet and award-winning bell ringers. Meet Santa, Mrs. Claus and Rudolph, and watch the lighting of the big tree. Dec. 5. 5 p.m. 3322 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-591-3160. Free.
Holiday on the Square. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. Ride on Santa’s trolley and enjoy the decorations adorning the square. Select dates include holiday craft making and live music. See www.gwinnettparks.com for more information. Dec.4-5, 5-8 p.m.; Dec.12-13, 4:30-8 p.m.; Dec.18-20, 4-8:30 p.m.; Dec. 21-22, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 185 Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-822-5450. Trolley, $2/person; photos with Santa, $5; holiday crafts, $1/child.
Candy Cane Hunt. The Mable House. Try cookie decorating, crafts, marshmallow roasting, photos with Santa and the annual Candy Cane Hunt (which includes prizes). Dec. 5. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 5239 Floyd Rd., Mableton. 770-819-3285. Free.
Christmas Parade. Holly Springs. Festive Christmas Parade through downtown Holly Springs. Dec. 5. 3:30 p.m. Downtown Holly Springs. 770-345-5536. Free.
Civil War Holiday. McDaniel Farm Park. Visit Santa, meet Civil War re-enactors and experience Christmas during the Civil War era. Dec. 5. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 3251 McDaniel Rd., Duluth. 770-814-4920. $5/person; under 2, free.
Old Town Holiday Festival and Caboose Lighting. Historic Old Town. Santa arrives to help light the historic old caboose. Dec. 5. 5 p.m. Main Street, Suwanee. 770-945-8996. Free.
Nutcracker Teas. Four Seasons Hotel. This special event includes a vignette performance of the Nutcracker by the Atlanta Ballet, tea sandwiches and dessert, holiday cookie decorating and storytelling under the tree. Ages 3-12. Dec. 6, 12 and 20. 3 p.m. 57 14th St., Midtown Atlanta. 404-253-3840. Adults, $45; children, $40.
Christmas for Kids. Bulloch Hall. Holiday event includes a Yule log hunt, candy cane hunt, storytelling, Christmas crafts, and a visit from the Clauses. Dec. 12. 10 a.m.-noon. 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell. 770-992-1731. Pre-register. $10/person.
Grant Park Candlelight Tour of Homes. St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. Beautiful tour of historic homes by candlelight, plus a Winter Wonderland Children’s Celebration. Dec. 12-13. 6-10 p.m. Winter Wonderland, Dec. 12, 4-6 p.m. 501 Grant St., Atlanta. 404-688-7501. $12 in advance; $15 weekend of the tour.
Meet the Holidays: Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe. Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Storytelling and a fun lesson about the lady of Guadalupe, make tissue paper flowers on Sunday. Dec. 12-13. Sat., noon; Sun., 11 a.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-652-9277. Adults and children 2 and up, $12.50; under 2, free.
Reindog Parade. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Stylish dogs parade for judges on the only day of the year dogs are allowed in the garden. Dec. 12. 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $10/dog; adults, $15; children 3-17, $12; under 3, free.
Winter in the Woods Holiday Celebration. Elachee Nature Science Center. Try natural seasonal crafts, a candy cane hunt, face painting and cookie decorating at this seasonal celebration. Dec. 12. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. 2125 Elachee Dr., Gainseville. 770-535-1976. Adults, $5; children 2-12, $3.
Children’s Nutcracker Tea and Gingerbread House. The Ritz-Carlton. Watch a vignette performance of the Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker, meet Santa and enjoy carols by the Dickens singers. Children can dine on sweet treats and hot cocoa, and the hotel’s pastry chef will present a nine-foot tall Gingerbread House. Dec. 20-23. 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. 3434 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-237-2700. Pre-register. Adults, $52; children, $47.
Family Fun Day. Marcus Jewish Community Center. For you’re not celebrating Christmas, enjoy a family party with crafts, volunteer opportunities, inflatables, Wii games, and become a game piece in the game of Human Candyland! Dec. 25. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody. 678-812-4000. $10-$12/child; adults and children under 2, free.
Snow Mountain. Stone Mountain Park. Visits to Atlanta’s Snow Mountain include snow tubing, a snow play area, and a kids’ play zone. Dec. 26-Mar. 7. Visit www.snowmountainpark.com for times. U.S. Hwy. 78, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. Book tickets in advance. Adults and children ages 3-11, $25/2-hour tubing session.
Horse and Carriage Rides. Atlantic Station. Take a jaunt around the station in an old-fashioned carriage. Proceeds benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Saturdays in Dec. 6-8 p.m. Midtown Atlanta. 404-260-3567. Free; donations accepted.
Steel Mill Express Children’s Train. Atlantic Station. This mini train around the station gives riders a history of Atlantic Station. Weekends in Dec. Noon-8 p.m. Midtown Atlanta. 404-260-3567. $3/person.
Holiday in the Garden. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Holiday trains and traditions: through Jan. 3; Botanical Express: through Jan. 3 ($2/ride) 11 a/m/-4 p.m.; Holiday puppet shows: through Dec. 19 at 10:30 a.m. Adults, $15; children 3-17, $12; under 3, free.
It’s Snowing in the Station. Atlantic Station. A realistic, magical nightly snowfall. Through Dec. 31. Sun.-Thurs., 7:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 7:30 and 9 p.m. Central Park of Atlantic Station. 404-260-3567. Free.
Ride the Pink Pig. Lenox Square Mall. Take a ride on the pink pig through a life-sized storybook adventure. Through Jan. 3. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Dec. 24 and 31, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Jan. 1-2, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Jan.3, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 3393 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 770-913-5639. $3/person.
Kwanzaa Celebrations
Meet the Holidays: Kwanzaa. Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Saturday storytelling and Sunday crafts, make a Kwanzaa placemat. Dec. 26-27. Sat., noon; Sun., 11 a.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., Atlanta. 404-653-9277. Adults and children 2 and up, $12.50; under 2, free.
Kwanzaa Celebration. Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History. A celebration of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Dec. 30. 3 p.m. 101 Auburn Ave., Atlanta. 404-730-4001. Free.
Light and Tree Displays
Holiday Lights Display. Pettit Creek Farms. Enjoy a hayride tour of the thousands of holiday lights on display around the farm. Dec. 1-30. Mon.-Thurs., 6-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sun., 6-11 p.m. 337 Cassville Rd., Cartersville. 770-386-8688. $9/vehicle; hayride: adults, $10; children, $8.
Festival of Lights. Historic Newnan Square. Caroling, bake sale and a Parade of Lights. Dec. 18-19. Dusk. Downtown Newnan. 770-253-8283. Free.
Stone Mountain Christmas. Stone Mountain Park. This winter wonderland experience includes The Polar Express in 4-D, Christmas carols, lights displays, a nightly parade with Santa and the Snow Angel. Two holiday stories, A Crossroads Christmas Carol and The Gift are performed during the five-mile train ride around the mountain. Through Dec. 30. Fri.-Sun., 2-10 p.m. U.S. Hwy. 78, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. Adults, $26; children 3-11, $21; parking, $10.
Lights of Life. Life University. Millions of lights illuminate the campus, with more than 100 pieces on display, including a 65-foot-high Santa and sleigh. Through Dec. 31. Sun.-Thurs., 6-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 6-11 p.m. 1269 Barclay Circle, Marietta. 770-426-2883. $5/car; $10/van. Proceeds benefit Atlanta Community Food Bank.
Holiday in Lights. Centennial Olympic Park. Thousands of lights illuminate the park with a new design every year. While there, try outdoor ice skating rink. Through Jan. 3. 7 a.m.-11 p.m. daily. 265 Park Ave., Atlanta. 404-222-7275. Ice skating, $7/person; skate rental, $2; light display, free.
Merry Music and Dance
Holiday Concert Series. Atlanta Symphony Hall. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra presents
six different shows over 12 days, including A Kid’s Christmas on Dec. 6 and 13 at 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Dec. 3-31. Visit www.atlantasymphony.org for show times. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. $15-$68.
Music and Merriment. Atlantic Station. Holiday concert series featuring local musicians and singers. Dec. 3-19. Thurs.-Sat., 1, 3 and 5 p.m. Central Park, Atlantic Station, Midtown Atlanta. 404-260-3567. Free.
Atlanta Pops Orchestra’s Holiday Concert. The Grand Theatre. The energetic Pops perform holiday favorites. Dec. 5. 7 p.m. 7 N. Wall St., Cartersville. 770-386-7343. Tickets, $20-$25.
‘Tis the Season: An Evening with Earl Klugh. Ferst Center for the Arts. The Grammy-winning guitarist plays jazz, Latin, classical and R&B versions of holiday songs. Dec. 5. 8 p.m. 349 Ferst Dr., Atlanta. 404-894-9600. $36-$46.
Army Ground Forces Band Holiday Concert. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Free performance includes contemporary holiday music for the family and a sing-along to ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. Dec. 11. 8 p.m. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 770-916-2852. Free admission with a ticket; pick up tickets from the Bank of North Georgia Box Office at the Centre.
Atlanta Celtic Christmas Concert. Schwartz Center, Emerson Concert Hall. Celtic and Appalachian music, dance and poetry. Dec. 11-13. Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 2:30 p.m. 1700 N. Decatur Rd., Atlanta. 404-727-5050. $25/person.
Dancing with the Sugar Plum Fairy. Rhodes Jordan Community Rec Center. Hear the story of the Nutcracker, learn ballet and the Sugar Plum Fairy’s dance, make a craft and more. Kids are invited to wear their pajamas. Ages 4-7. Dec. 12 and 19. 2-4 p.m. 100 East Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-822-5414. Pre-register. $12/child.
Jim Brickman. Cobb Energy Centre. Christmas concert by pianist Jim Brickman, featuring piano solos and vocals. Music will be from Brickman’s album, Beautiful World. Dec. 12. 8 p.m. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 770-916-2800. Tickets, $33-$53.
Christmas Through the Ages. Cumming Playhouse. Classical, traditional and jazzy Christmas music, along with ballet dancers and dramatic skits. Dec. 15-16. 8 p.m. 101 School St., Cumming. 770-781-9178. $15/person.
A Very Merry Holiday Pops. Atlanta Symphony Hall. Holiday variety show featuring the Lassiter and Walton High School choirs, Russian dancers and a piano juggler. Dec. 18-19. Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 8 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-5000. $15-$68.
Nutcracker
The Nutcracker. The Fox Theatre. The Atlanta Ballet’s version, and the city’s holiday tradition. Dec. 11-27. Wed.-Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 22-23, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 24, 1 p.m. 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-873-4511. $22-$89.
The Nutcracker. Monsignor Terry W. Young Center for the Performing Arts. Callanwolde Dance Ensemble performs the holiday musical classic. Dec. 12. Noon, 2 and 7 p.m. 2674 Johnson Rd., Atlanta. 404-872-5338. $8/person.
Santa Visits and Brunches
Christmas High Teas. Bulloch Hall. High tea served by ladies in period clothing. Dec. 1, 2, 8, 10, 14, 16. 4 p.m. 180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell. 770-992-1731. Pre-register. $35/person.
Santa at Rhodes Hall. Rhodes Hall. Listen to storytelling; enjoy snacks, arts and crafts; and visit with Santa. The event includes a 5x7 photo with Santa. Dec. 1-13. Mon.-Thurs., 4-8 p.m.; Fri., 2-4 p.m. 1516 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-885-7812. $35/family.
Santa at Stone Mountain. Visit Santa and watch his nightly parade at Stone Mountain Park. Santa will hear visitor’s wishes in his workshop. Dec. 4-6, 11-13, 18-23, 26-30. 2-10 p.m. U.S. Hwy. 78, Stone Mountain. 770-498-5690. Adults, $26; children 3-11, $21; parking, $10.
Breakfast with Santa. Southeastern Railway Museum. Enjoy a snack breakfast with Santa, take a ride on the train, and snap a photo with the jolly Mr. Claus. Dec. 5, 12 and 19. 10 a.m. 3595 Peachtree Rd., Duluth. 770-476-2013. Adults, $8; ages 2-12, $4; under 2, free. Breakfast, $3.
Santa on the Square. Marietta Square. Visit Santa’s workshop to take a holiday photo with him. Dec. 5-6, 12-13, 19-24. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Dec. 24, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Downtown Marietta. 770-794-5601. Prices vary.
Cookies with the Clauses. Alpharetta Community Center. Enjoy cookies and milk with the jolly couple, and bring a new unwrapped gift to donate. Dec. 9. Noon-2:30 p.m. 175 Roswell St., Alpharetta. 678-297-6100. Free.
Breakfast with Santa. Stone Mountain First United Methodist Church. Enjoy a breakfast, silent auction, kids room and photo with Santa. Dec. 12. 7-10 a.m. 5322 West Mountain St., Stone Mountain. 770-498-7022. $5/person.
Breakfast with Santa. North Park Adult Activity Center. Bring a new, unwrapped child’s gift for charity, and enjoy breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Ages 3-10. Dec. 12. 9-11 a.m. 13450 Cogburn Rd., Alpharetta. 678-297-6140. Pre-register by Dec. 9. Free.
Christmas at the Cabin. Red Top Mountain State Park and Lodge. Photo opportunity with Mr. And Mrs. Claus by the fireplace of this decorated cabin. Dec. 12. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 50 Lodge Rd. SE, Cartersville. 770-975-4226. Free; parking, $5.
Cowboy Santa. Booth Western Art Museum. Meet cowboy Santa and Mrs. Claus for a photo opportunity and make a holiday ornament to take home. Dec. 12. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 501 Museum Dr., Cartersville. 770-387-1300. Adults, $10; children under 12, free.
Santa Parade. Downtown Kennesaw. The Santa Parade features holiday characters, music, floats, live reindeer and Santa himself. Dec. 12. Noon. Starts at intersection of Park Dr. and Main St. 770-422-9714. Free.
Visit with Santa. Zoo Atlanta. Zoo members can warm up with hot beverages, meet costumed characters, enjoy live holiday music and meet Santa. Dec. 12, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 800 Cherokee Ave., Atlanta. 404-624-2809. Open to zoo members only; free.
Photos with Santa
Phipps Plaza. Schedule your visit ahead of time at www.santaatphipps.com to reserve a spot. Through Dec. 24. See site for times. 3500 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-262-0992.
Arbor Place Mall. Douglasville. 770-947-4245.
Cumberland Mall. Atlanta. 770-435-2206.
Discover Mills. Lawrenceville. 678-847-5000.
Gwinnett Place Mall. Duluth. 770-476-5260.
Lenox Mall. Atlanta. 404-233-6767.
Mall at Stonecrest. Lithonia. 678-526-8955.
Mall of Georgia. Buford. 678-482-8788.
Northlake Mall. Atlanta. 770-938-3564.
Northpoint Mall. Alpharetta. 770-740-9273.
Perimeter Mall. Atlanta. 770-394-4270.
South Dekalb Mall. Decatur. 404-241-2431.
Town Center at Cobb. Kennesaw. 770-424-9486.
Tours of Bethlehem
An Evening in Bethlehem. Roswell United Methodist Church. See costumed characters and real stable animals in this live production that tells the story of the first Christmas. Dec. 5. 5, 6 and 7 p.m. 814 Mimosa Blvd., Roswell. 770-261-1701. Pre-register. Free.
Back to Bethlehem. Hopewell Baptist Church. See the church’s outdoor re-creation of the night Christ was born. Dec. 5-13. 7-9 p.m. 75 Ridge Rd., Canton. 770-345-5723. Free.
Nativity Tour. The Episcopal Church of the Epiphany. See more than 250 nativity scenes made from carved wood, volcanic ash and more. Through Dec. 6. Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., 2-4 p.m. 2089 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta. 404-373-8338. Adults, $5; under 12, free.
Traditional Children’s Nativity. Alpharetta United Methodist Church. Live nativity scene and music from the Children’s Choir. Dec. 6. 4 p.m. 69 N Main St., Alpharetta. 770-475-5576. Free.
Living Nativity Drive Through. Clairmont Hills Baptist Church. See scenes from the nativity. Dec. 11-13. Fri.-Sat., 7-9 p.m.; Sun., 6-9 p.m. 1995 Clairmont Rd., Decatur. 404-634-6231. Free.
Walk through Bethlehem. Simpsonwood United Methodist Church. Walk through the outdoor nativity scene and village re-creating the nativity scene. Dec. 11-13. Fri.-Sat., 7-9 p.m.; Sun., 6-8 p.m. 4500 Jones Bridge Cir., Norcross. 770-441-2181. Free.
Beyond Atlanta
Christmas at the Gorge. Tallulah Gorge State Park. Children’s crafts and activities, storytelling and a beautiful, festive lodge. Dec. 5. 1-4 p.m. 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Dr., Tallulah Falls. 706-754-7981. Free admission; parking, $5.
Christmas Candlelight Tour. New Echota Historic Site. Hike three quarters of a mile through the grounds by lantern light, and enjoy caroling, stories and refreshments. Dec. 5. 6-9:30 p.m. 1211 Chatsworth Hwy., Calhoun. 706-624-1321. $3.50-$5/person.
Christmas Open House. Amicalola State Park and Lodge. Enjoy live music, view the collection of gingerbread houses, take a winter hayride and visit with Santa. Dec. 5. 4 p.m. 418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd., Dawsonville. 706-265-1969. Free admission; parking, $5.
Christmas Tree Lighting. Vogel State Park. Tree lighting, hayrides, a visit from Santa, bonfires, hot cocoa and cider. Bring a new unwrapped toy for kids ages 0-12 for the Union County Sheriff’s Department. Dec. 12. 4:30 p.m. 405 Vogel State Park Rd., Blairsville. 706-745-2628. Free, bring one new, unwrapped toy.
Festival of Trees. Unicoi State Park and Lodge. View the collection of decorated trees donated by churches and businesses. Through Dec. 12. 9 a.m. 1788 Hwy. 365, Helen. 800-573-9659. Free; parking, $5.
A Fort Yargo Christmas. Fort Yargo State Park. Christmas carols, refreshments, fort tours and a visit from Santa. Dec. 12. 3-6 p.m. 210 S. Broad St., Winder. 770-867-3489. Free; parking, $5.
Fantasy in Lights. Callaway Gardens. Glittering outdoor lights show with more than 8 million lights on five miles of the Gardens. Through Dec. 30. 6-8 p.m. Hwy. 27, Pine Mountain. 800-225-5292. Adults, $18-$25/person; children, $9-$12/person; under 5, free.
Enchanted Garden of Lights. Rock City. See a million lights and many holiday scenes around the mountain and Enchanted Trail, plus Sugar Plum Fairy makeovers for kids and more. Through Jan. 2. 6-9 p.m. Chattanooga, Tenn. 800-854-0675. Adults, $16.95; children 3-12, $8.95.
A Tropical Holiday Adventure. Tennessee Aquarium. Relax to Caribbean holiday music and watch tropically clad Santa divers swim amongst the reef fish. Through Jan. 3. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 1 Broad St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 800-262-0695. Adults, $21.95; children ages 3-12, $14.95.
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Holiday Community Calendar