Alpharetta to ring in the season with the Lighting of Avalon

Join Santa for music, activities, ice skating and more

Alpharetta residents won’t be short on holiday shopping options thanks to a holiday market coming to Avalon.

Things are about to get lit in Alpharetta.

Festive music, free family activities and, of course, the lighting of the big tree are just part of the fun that will mark the Lighting of Avalon on Sunday, Nov. 19. The event is presented by Northside Hospital.

“From the annual opening of Avalon on Ice to the magnificent tree lighting, and an appearance from Jolly Old Saint Nick himself, there’s something exciting for all to enjoy,” experienceavalon.com states.

Several activities begin at 2 p.m., including Activity Row, which includes face painting, balloon art, a photo booth and more until 5 p.m.

Avalon on Ice glides into the season with a “magical ice skating performance” at 2, followed by the rink officially opening to the public at 3 p.m.

And what’s a holiday party without music? A DJ will spin holiday hits 2-3 p.m., with performances by local entertainers throughout the day, including the Davis Academy 4:45-5:15 p.m.

Bogey and the Viceroy is back at 5:30-7:30 p.m. with “another spectacular holiday performance you won’t want to miss,” the website states.

You’ll want to be near the 40-foot tree at 7 p.m. to help Santa count down to the tree’s lighting.

For those attending the festivities, parking will be available in any of the free parking decks, valet at 3rd Street, or you can park across the street at Gwinnett Technical College and take a shuttle. Because parking will fill up quickly, Avalon recommends carpooling or using a ride-share service.