KENNESAW
Day of the Bonsai
For the third year in a row, the folks at Smith-Gilbert Gardens in Kennesaw are going bonkers for bonsai trees. On Nov. 12, you can spend the day checking out the gardens’ bonsai collection and learning more from staff and members of the Bonsai Study Group. Expert Rodney Clemons will be on-site to give an all-day demonstration of the traditional Japanese art form. If you’re ready to take up the hobby, you can bid on trees in the silent auction or pick up bonsai supplies in the sale area. Members of the gardens can enter for free; nonmembers pay a $7 admission.
10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 12. $7. Smith-Gilbert Gardens, 2382 Pine Mountain Road, Kennesaw. 770-919-0248, smithgilbertgardens.com.
ROSWELL
Christmas in Roswell
The magic of Christmas is already in the air, and it has set Roswell’s Southern Trilogy aglow. The city’s three historic homes — Smith Plantation, Bulloch Hall and Barrington Hall — are lavishly decorated in the spirit of seasonal celebrations from days gone by. Smith Plantation showcases Images of Christmas, with ornate floral displays and elaborately decorated trees that draw on decades of traditions. Self-guided tours of Bulloch Hall highlight decorations emphasizing the life of President Theodore Roosevelt and the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service. Head to Barrington Hall to see images of how St. Nick has changed through the years. Purchase admission at each home individually, or get a pass to all three homes for $18 (children younger than 18 are $15).
10 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 12. 1-3 p.m. Nov. 13. $6-$18. Three locations in Roswell. 770-640-3253, visitroswellga.com.
MCDONOUGH
Holiday Festival of the Arts
It’s not too soon to start looking for that perfect present for someone special. A good place to begin is the Artist Market at the Holiday Festival in McDonough. Local artists and merchants will be on-site with a range of unique goods, including jewelry, handmade crafts and paintings. Listen to live music as you soak up the holiday fun. Be on the lookout for the Grinch: He’ll be sneaking about the festival and will be more than happy to snap a photo with you and your family.
Noon-5 p.m. Nov. 13. Free. McDonough Square, 5 Griffin St, McDonough. 770-898-3196, mcdonougharts.net.
