The holiday light show at the Botanical Gardens, Rudolph the Red-Nose Reindeer at the Center for Puppetry Arts, The Nutcracker ballet at the Fox Theater, and visiting with Santa at Phipps Plaza – Atlanta is filled with classic Christmas traditions that we all look forward to year after year!But most of the seasonal events in our area either have an admissions fee or a minimum purchase requirement. And with expenses already high in December, this can make it hard to enjoy these holiday outings without added stress.
To help offset some of these costs, I’ve started making note of all the free holiday activities I encounter throughout our city each year. From free Santa photos to neighborhood light displays, here’s my list of the best fun and free holiday events in Atlanta. Please remember that while these events are free, many require reservations to be made in advance.
Mighty Mo & More! Fox Theatre Sing-Along: Looking to take part in a fun city tradition? Each year the Fox Theatre’s organist leads a Christmas sing-along while playing the historic “Mighty Mo” organ. A screening of “Polar Express” will also take place this year following the sing-along.
Bass Pro Shop: Did you know that all Bass Pro Shops offer free photos with Santa – and many locations offer free digital Christmas cards and/or picture frames. And visiting with Santa is just half of the fun – the shops are filled with sights and displays that will entertain your kids for hours! Visit the Bass Pro website to learn more and to find a location close to you.
Christmas in Castille: A beautiful neighborhood display of lights and holiday decorations, this Alpharetta “show” will take place December 16th – 18th from 6 pm – 9 pm.
Hunter’s Christmas Tree Farm: Though you will have to pay for your Christmas tree, the hayrides, Santa visits, cookies and cocoa on Hunter’s Christmas Tree Farm are complimentary.
