OUR GUIDE TO MAKING THE MOST OF THE CHRISTMAS SEASON WITH FUN LOCAL EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
As the holiday season approaches, we find ourselves reflecting on the magic that fills the air — those cherished moments that transform our homes and communities into a wonderland of warmth and joy. From the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen to the twinkling lights that dance along our streets, every detail weaves a tapestry of sweet memories. Our favorite holiday tunes provide the soundtrack to our annual drive to admire the festive displays throughout our local neighborhoods, while laughter provides the backdrop as we rewatch our favorite holiday movies over and over. It’s in these simple traditions — family meals shared around the table, decorations carefully hung — that the true spirit of the season shines. In this Holiday Scavenger Hunt, we invite you to explore local events, beloved businesses, and other activities to create your own special moments with loved ones. Let’s make this holiday season one to remember!
By Alicia Carter
Trim the Tree with Garland Bros.
Make picking the perfect Christmas tree a family tradition at Garland Brothers Christmas Tree Lot in Suwanee. This family-run gem has been serving our community for more than 20 years, and you can feel the holiday spirit in the air. With trees grown in the North Carolina mountains, you’re sure to find one that fits your home beautifully. Stop by and let the kids pick their favorite — who knows, it might just be the best tree yet! Visit them at 6 US-23 in Suwanee.
Visit Santa at Jolly Holly Days & Market
Santa’s coming to town, and he’s bringing the holiday magic with him to Town Center Park for the Jolly Holly Days & Market! It’s the perfect opportunity to meet Santa and share wish lists while enjoying school performances, festive crafts, and yummy treats. On Friday night, Santa Claus will magically arrive and be available to take photos with children and their families. While waiting in line to meet Santa, children can work on their letters to Santa and leave them with him directly when they take their photos. On Saturday, Town Center Park will overflow with holiday cheer. Shop for gifts for your friends and family, enjoy hot chocolate and other festive treats from local vendors and food trucks, and more. It is fun for the whole family! Meeting Santa AND knocking out your holiday shopping? It’s the perfect kickoff to the season! The Jolly Holly Days & Market takes place December 6-7 at Town Center Park, 330 Town Center Ave. in Suwanee. For more information, visit Suwanee.com.
Build the Gingerbread House of Your Dreams with Suwanee Academy of the Arts
Gather the family for a deliciously fun challenge: Create a gingerbread house for Suwanee Academy of the Arts’ annual Gingerbread Contest! Drop off your tasty creations from December 2-7, or just come to marvel at the festive displays. The theme this year is “Around the World,” so let your imagination run wild and be part of this sweet holiday tradition. All entries due on December 7 at 11 a.m. The winner will be announced on Facebook Live. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite for the People’s Choice Award from December 7-21. Learn more at SuwaneeAcademy.com.
Enjoy Nutcracker Tea Party Magic
Step into a world of enchantment at The Nutcracker Tea Party! This delightful event, hosted by Suwanee Performing Arts, features storytelling and dancing that bring the beloved tale to life. It’s a perfect outing for younger kids to enjoy some holiday cheer. Taking place December 7-8 at Suwanee Academy of the Arts, located at 395 Brogdon Road in Suwanee. Learn more at SuwaneeAcademy.com.
Hear the Sounds of Holidays with the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra
Celebrate the season with a festive concert by the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra. On December 14, gather your loved ones for Holidays with the JCSO, an evening filled with classic holiday tunes and special guest performances. This concert promises to be a heartwarming experience that will have everyone singing along and feeling merry! The concert takes place December 14 at 7:30 p.m. at Mount Pisgah Church located at 2850 Old Alabama Road in Johns Creek. Learn more at JohnsCreekSymphony.org.
Get a Taste of The Nutcracker with Suwanee Ballet
Get ready for a delightful evening with Suwanee Ballet as they present The Best of The Nutcracker. Enjoy the stunning performances of your favorite holiday ballet selections on December 14 and 15. This timeless classic promises to whisk your family away into a world of sugarplum fairies and enchanting music — it’s a holiday must-see! December 14, 2 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.; December 15 at 2 p.m. The Eagle Theatre, 5029 W. Broad St. N.E., Sugar Hill. Learn more at SuwaneePerforms.org.
Enjoy a Holiday Improv Show
Grab your funniest holiday sweater and prepare for a night of giggles at the Tacky Christmas Sweater Improv Show. Hosted by The Actor’s Company, this hilarious event on December 21 is perfect for the whole family. Join in the laughter as talented performers celebrate the fun side of the season — who knows, you might leave with a new favorite holiday memory! Tickets are $10. The show takes place December 21 at 7 p.m. at Suwanee Academy of the Arts, 395 Brogdon Road in Suwanee.
Jambos’ Jammie Jog 5k
Grab your warmest Christmas jammies (or not) and join Jambo’s for their 3rd annual 5k! This is a run to remember with music, goody bags, Chick-fil-A’s Santa cow, and great photo ops. Each runner receives a festive, jammie jog t-shirt. Head to Chick-fil-A when the 5K is over for a Christmas photo booth and a FREE CFA Sandwich with your race number! Jambos is on a mission to bring comfort to kids in the foster care system by providing them with brand new pajamas. The Jammie Jog takes place on December 7th at Little Mulberry Park, 3855 Fence Road in Dacula. For more information, visit JambosDonates.org.
Snap Magical Memories at Suwanee Town Center
Capture the holiday spirit with fun photo ops with Suwanee Town Center’s festive decorations! Gather the family, strike a pose, and create lasting memories together. It’s a delightful way to celebrate the season while enjoying the sights and sounds of our community.
Ride the Pink Pig at the Georgia Festival of Trees
Experience a holiday tradition like no other at the Georgia Festival of Trees — where the beloved Pink Pig is back! From November 23 to December 1, enjoy festive lights, music, and plenty of activities for the kiddos, including cookie decorating and games. The festival supports a wonderful cause, too. The event takes place at Gas South Convention Center, located at 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy. in Duluth. Learn more at GAFestivalofTrees.org
Run for Fun in Your Tacky Sweater
Lace up those festive sneakers for HappyFeat’s annual Run, Run Rudolph 5K, which takes place December 7 at Town Center Park. This fun-filled event supports HappyFeat, a local nonprofit whose mission is to create inclusive opportunities for people living with disabilities, and is a great way to kick off the holiday season with family and friends. So, pull on your best holiday attire and get ready to run for a great cause! The 5K takes place December 7 at 9 a.m. Learn more at Suwanee.com.
Enjoy Snowy Fun at License to Chill Snow Island
Head over to License to Chill Snow Island for a day packed with winter fun. From snow tubing to ice skating, Margaritaville’s lakeside Christmastime attraction has something for everyone, including a 575-foot-long, eight-story snow tubing hill, which is said to be the fastest in North America. Snow Island takes place November 12 to February 27. For hours and more information, visit MargaritavilleResorts.com/margaritaville-at-lanier-islands.
Twinkling Lights at Lakeside Lights Spectacular
After a day of fun at License to Chill Snow Island, head over to Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular. Take your family on a magical stroll through dazzling light displays set to festive music. It’s a delightful way to create memories and soak in the holiday spirit together. View the lights from November 12 to February 27. For hours and more information, visit MargaritavilleResorts.com/margaritaville-at-lanier-islands.
Cozy Up for Holiday Movie Night
Turn your living room into a holiday cinema with a family movie night. Choose your favorite holiday classics, put some festive cookies in the oven, and then snuggle up with blankets for a cozy evening filled with laughter and cheer. It’s the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the magic of the season together!
Enjoy a Holiday Show with Christmas Canteen
Experience the joy of the season at Aurora Theatre’s Christmas Canteen, the annual musical revue that brings plenty of laughter, songs, and festive cheer to the Lawrenceville Arts Center. Perfect for families, this show is sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit and make for a wonderful night out together! The show takes place November 29 to December 22 at Aurora Theatre, located at 128 East Pike St. in Lawrenceville. Learn more at AuroraTheatre.com.
Soak in the Holiday Magic at Stone Mountain Christmas
Join the festive fun at Stone Mountain Christmas from November 9 to January 5. Enjoy park attractions by day and be mesmerized by the stunning light displays and holiday shows by night. It’s a magical experience for families that will create memories to cherish for years to come! Taking place November 9 to January 5. Learn more at StoneMountainPark.com.
Deck the Hall in Duluth
Kick off the holiday season at Duluth’s “Deck the Hall” where you can enjoy outdoor winter activities, live music, and the excitement of watching City Hall light up with festive colors. Santa will be stopping by, so bring your wish lists and get ready for a joyful day filled with holiday spirit! The event takes place December 7 from 2-7 p.m. in downtown Duluth.
Shop Local for the Holidays
This season, support our community by shopping local! Explore charming shops and boutiques in Suwanee’s Town Center Park and other local downtown areas for unique gifts that your family and friends will love. It’s a wonderful way to find that perfect present while spreading holiday cheer right in your own neighborhood.
