It’s that time of year again — holiday celebrations are keeping your social calendar full, and light displays are popping up in your neighborhoods and at a number of notable spots across metro Atlanta.
Looking for some traditional holiday fun? Load up your family and friends and head for these spectacular locations to get a taste of the best seasonal displays the region has to offer.
Holiday in Lights at Centennial Olympic Park
Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, Centennial Olympic Park is bordered by Luckie Street, Centennial Olympic Park Drive, Baker Street and Andrew Young International Boulevard. For this year’s presentation, more than 200 Crawford and Co. volunteers, including President and CEO Jeffrey Bowman, came together to string more than 20 miles of lights. Now celebrating its 13th year, Centennial Olympic Park invites you to take a stroll through the park and marvel at the lights and display (21 acres) or put your blades to the ice on Atlanta’s only outdoor skating rink, surrounded by the great lawn and the lights of city skyscrapers.
“Holiday in Lights is an Atlanta tradition,” park spokeswoman Nicole Rateau said. “Different and unique every year, it’s a free, festive and fun event for the whole family. While you’re in the park, don’t forget to visit Atlanta’s only outdoor ice skating rink.”
What's new: This year the 58-foot tree has been moved to the Belvedere location.
Familiar fave: The flashing Atlanta Olympic poles and the Ring Fountain
Best time to go: Anytime is good, but evenings are a visual experience.
Extras: Atlanta's only outdoor skating rink
How many: Unknown, but it's enough to stretch over 20 miles
Concessions: Area restaurants offer food and drink.
Cost: Free
Dates and times: Through Jan. 3, 7 a.m.-11 p.m.
Location: Corner of Centennial Olympic Park Drive and Andrew Young International Boulevard in downtown Atlanta
Info: 404-222-PARK
On the net: www.centennialpark.com
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Lake Lanier Islands’ 17th annual Magical Nights of Lights
Forty-five minutes from northeast Atlanta, Lake Lanier Islands Resort is located on the shores of Lake Sidney Lanier. “This year’s Magical Nights of Lights combines holiday tradition with new elements,” said Virgil Williams, managing owner of Lake Island Lanier Resorts. “From the moment you enter the islands you will experience new light displays, new routes and even new methods of viewing the show. Guests of the hotel can even enjoy the lights from a rented four-seat golf cart. Your experience culminates with your arrival at Holiday Village and the traditional visit with Santa Claus. There is truly something for everyone.”
What's new: Routes and light displays
Familiar fave: Traditional driving tour through more than six miles of illuminated characters and scenery
Best time to go: Smaller crowds during the weekday evenings
Extras: Weekend hotel packages
How many: Unknown millions
Concessions: Buffet dining
Cost: $40 per car Monday-Thursday, $60 per car Friday-Sunday (and holidays)
Dates and times: Nov. 20-Dec. 30, 5-10 p.m.
Location: 7000 Lakeside Road, Lake Lanier Islands
Info: 1-800-840-LAKE
On the net: www.lake lanierislands.com
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Life University’s Lights of Life 2009
Originally kicking off in 1989, the event was initiated as a gift to the community to offer a spectacular display of holiday lights. Twenty years later, the display has become a tradition for all of metro Atlanta. The presentation offers pony rides, the opportunity to sit on Santa’s lap, and a petting zoo for children on the weekends. Lights of Life contains more than 100 pieces across a 1.5-mile drive.
What's new: Grounds arrangement
Familiar fave: Santa and his sleigh, more than 65 feet tall
Best time to go: Weekdays in the evening
Extras: The weekends offer visits with Santa and a petting zoo.
How many: More than 1 million bulbs with more than 100 displays
Concessions: Light snacks, popcorn, pretzels, hot dogs, apple cider, hot chocolate and bottled water
Cost: $5 per car, $10 per van, $20 per bus
Dates and times: Nov. 23-Dec. 31, 6-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 6-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday
Location: 1269 Barclay Circle, Marietta
Info: 770-426-2600
On the net: www.life.edu/lightsoflife
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Callaway Gardens
There’s a lot to experience here — the Jolly Trolley, Snowflake Valley, Magical Christmas Garden and Santa’s Workshop, as well as music and choreographed lights to tell the story of “ ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” and “The Nativity.”
“Fantasy in Lights is just something you just have to experience,” said Rachel Crumbley, a spokeswoman for Callaway Gardens. “The spirit of the season is in the air, and the atmosphere is joyful. The artistry applied to these more than 8 million lights really make the scenes come to life. Regardless of your age, it makes it feel like you are riding through the chapters of a Christmas fairy tale. For those who have been before, there are a few surprises planned. Fantasy in Lights provides a great experience for families who see each other all the time or for those seeking to meet up for their Thanksgiving or Christmas get-together.”
What's new: Luxurious lodge and spa — stay for the weekend
Familiar fave: Snowflake Valley
Best time to go: Weekdays in the evening
Extras: The Christmas Village — indoor shopping and dining venue
How many: 8 million lights
Concessions: Pizza, Philly cheesesteaks, funnel cakes, apple cider, hot chocolate and more
Cost: $8-$16
Dates and times: Nov. 20-Dec. 30, 6-8 p.m.
Location: 5887 Ga. 354, Pine Mountain
Info: 706-663-2281
On the net: www.callawaygardens.com
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