The Best Holiday Pop-Ups in Georgia
Oh, what fun it is to celebrate the holidays at limited-time-only pop-ups! From ice skating rinks to cozy rooftop igloos, artist markets to holiday-themed bars and more, these holiday pop-ups in Georgia are sure to make you merry. Grab your friends and family, and don't miss the fun at these seasonal surprises throughout the state.
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Ice Skating
Blue Ridge on Ice in Blue Ridge
Ice skating opens at the Blue Ridge Farmers Market, located next door to The Swan Drive-In, Friday, Nov. 18, 2022, and continues through Jan. 9, 2023. Open daily and will have special hours on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Cost is $10 and includes skate rental.
Toccoa on Ice in Toccoa
The 2022 Toccoa on Ice will be held every Friday - Sunday from Dec. 2, 2022 - Jan. 1, 2023, in Historic Downtown Toccoa. (Excluding Dec. 25 in observance of Christmas and weather permitting.) Hours of operation are Fridays 5-9 p.m., Saturdays 12-9 p.m., and Sundays 1- 6 p.m.
Avalon on Ice in Alpharetta
Glide into the holiday spirit on the monumental Rockefeller-inspired ice skating rink at Avalon on Ice Nov. 20, 2022 - Jan. 14, 2023, in Alpharetta.
Igloos
Minnie Olivia Pizzeria in Alpharetta
For an Old-World-meets-New-Era wintertime dining experience, enjoy a rustic slice of pizza encapsulated in an adorable heated mini-igloo at Minnie Olivia Pizzeria. You’ll feel like you’re in a snow globe surrounded by the sights and sounds of sweet downtown Alpharetta!
The Roof at Ponce City Market in Atlanta
Go ice skating on The Roof of Ponce City Market and then relax in a cozy, private igloo to enjoy food and drinks with a skyline view of Atlanta. Also, check out the cocktails at the Holiday Social Bar inside the tower lobby, and sip holiday-inspired drinks surrounded by whimsical decor. For a more upscale cocktail experience, make reservations at 12 Cocktail Bar, and enjoy drinks like Sleigh Fuel and Jingle Juice.
Starry Nights at The Lost Square in Savannah
Grab a fur blanket, cozy up with a hot drink, and enjoy the twinkling lights in the winter greenhouses at The Lost Square on the roof of The Alida hotel in Savannah Friday, Nov. 25, 2022 - Feb. 13, 2023. For 90 minutes, you can enjoy sharable plates and cozy cocktails meant for sipping – the ideal way to celebrate the season.
Markets
Christmas Market at Plant Riverside District in Savannah
Stroll through the European-style Christmas market and bask in the glow of lights at the tree lighting ceremony starting Friday, Nov. 25, 2022. The celebrations continue through Monday, Jan. 2, 2023, with live music and performances, children’s activities, photos with Santa Claus, the Savannah Harbor Boat Parade of Lights and more.
Christkindlmarkt in Helen
The Helen Chamber of Commerce is holding the 15th Annual Christkindlmarkt on the Marktplatz on Nov. 26-27 and Dec. 3-4, 2022. The Christkindlmarkt is a traditional German event that offers everything from unique gifts and decorations to an assortment of savory and sweet foods, drinks and candied treats.
Back to Nature Holiday Market in Roswell
Shop local this holiday season in Roswell. Explore local artisans' unique, handmade, and/or eco-friendly gifts for the holiday season at the Back to Nature Holiday Market on Dec. 3, 2022. Art, jewelry, candles, children’s gifts, bath products, food, nature gifts, and so much more.
Holiday Artist Market and Holiday Drag Show in Hapeville
On Dec. 3, 2022, shop for paintings, ceramics, vintage wares, and more from local artisans at the Holiday Artist Market at Arches Brewing beginning at 2 p.m. Then, at 8 p.m., don't miss Olive & Agatha's Holiday Spec-TACKY-lar drag show, celebrating everything that makes the holidays wonderfully tacky.
Mistletoe Market in Augusta
Augusta & Co. will host its annual Mistletoe Market on Dec. 10, 2022, from 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. The market will feature several businesses local to Augusta’s River Region, including Trevathan Goat, Edenberry House Lettering, The Kulture Kabinet and La Bonbonniere Chocolate.
Restaurants & Bars
Osteria Mattone Yurt Experience
Experience exceptional Italian cuisine while dining outside in an elegantly decorated yurt at Osteria Mattone in Roswell. Reserve your table for up to six people, and enjoy a special meal of Roman specialties in a magical wintry setting.
Miracle at Eastern Wharf
Pop into the Thompson Savannah for festive cocktails like Holiday Spiked Chai, Jingle Ball Nog and a Snowball Old Fashioned at the Miracle at Eastern Wharf, open daily Nov. 18 - Dec. 30, 2022. Cocktails aren't the only reason to stop in, though. While you're there, don't miss the view from the tallest rooftop bar in Savannah.
Sleigh on Perry in Lawrenceville
Sleigh on Perry, a limited-time pop-up bar in Lawrenceville, features wall-to-wall holiday decor, an exclusive classic Christmas movie-inspired cocktail list, and yummy snacks. Sleigh will be open select dates in December. Check their Facebook page for the latest updates.
Holiday Paint 'n Pints at Silver Bluff Brewing on St. Simons Island
Join the fun at Silver Bluff Brewing Company on Dec. 7, 2022, from 6-8 p.m. for an open-paint night and ice-cold Silver Bluff beer. Pottery choices will include Christmas trees, reindeer, and Santas, plus steins and dishware. Food trucks will be on standby throughout the evening while you paint something amazing.
Outdoor Adventures
Sailing with Santa in Savannah
Join Santa and his North Pole crew on a one-and-a-half-hour narrated harbor sightseeing cruise with Savannah Riverboat Cruises. Children will enjoy a special treat from Santa and an arts & crafts station. Kids sail FREE with the donation of a new unwrapped toy that will benefit the Greenbriar Children’s Center.
Christmas at the Gorge in Tallulah Falls
Saturday, Dec 3, 2022, from 1-3 p.m. at Tallulah Gorge State Park, see Santa, make crafts, enjoy Christmas music and have a snack. Bring a camera to take your own photos with Santa.
Holiday Elf Hike in Stockbridge
Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022, from 1-4 p.m. at Panola Mountain State Park, join the holiday celebration at the Nature Center. Activities will include sipping on hot cocoa, crafts, and hiking the Rock Outcrop Trail (0.75 miles). Must register in advance.
Home Tours
Holiday Tour of Homes in Madison
Dec. 2-3, 2022, tour cottages and historic homes all dressed up for the holidays in Madison at the Holiday Tour of Homes. The tour is self-guided and day, candlelight, and group tours are available.
Plum Orchard Christmas on Cumberland Island
On Dec. 3, 2022, take a special ferry ride to Plum Orchard mansion on Cumberland Island and stroll through rooms decked in traditional early 1900s decorations. Learn about holiday customs of the time from volunteers and staff dressed in period costume. In addition to the tour, enjoy seasonal refreshments, play old-fashioned lawn games and create a souvenir of your visit. You may even hear a Christmas carol or two!
