The holidays turn hotels into bustling centers of Christmas cheer. Attending one of the many Yuletide events held at hotels around Atlanta is a great way to treat yourself and your loved ones to something fancy without straying too far from home. Here are five hotels hosting events you don’t want to miss.
The St. Regis
The St. Regis has been prepping for the holiday season since the turkey finished cooking on Thanksgiving. On Nov. 24, the hotel unveiled the largest gingerbread house in Atlanta, currently on display in the lobby. The St. Regis also opened its yearly Astor holiday ice rink. Guests can skate beneath a sheer tent and white lights. S'mores, hot cocoa and a food and beverage menu is available to attendees. Skating sessions start on the hour and cost $30 for adults and $18 for kids.
Through Jan. 6. 88 W. Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta. 404-563-7900, stregisatlanta.com.
The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta
Naughty or nice is the eternal Christmas question as well as the theme of several teas held at the Ritz-Carlton Atlanta throughout December. Naughty or Nice holiday tea presents guests with the choice between being responsible or indulging their wild side. Nice options include traditional afternoon tea offerings like apple ciders, egg salads, warmed scones and tea cookies. Champagne, strawberries, whipped cream and Grand Marnier make up the naughty menu. Naughty tea is $60 while nice tea is $40; tea is $22 for children.
1 and 3 p.m. Thursdays, Dec. 7, 14, 21; 1 and 3 p.m. Fridays, Dec. 8, 15, 22. The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta, 181 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-659-0400, ritzcarlton.com.
Westin Buckhead
The Westin Buckhead hosts a holiday party focused on making a difference. Jingle Mingle 2017 teams up with the United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots foundation to spread Christmas cheer to underprivileged kids. Bring an unwrapped toy to gain entrance to the party; the event, presented by Atlanta 200, expects more than 3,000 attendees. The party costs $40 — or $20 and an unwrapped toy. No one under 21 admitted.
8 p.m.-2 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 16. The Westin Buckhead Atlanta, 3391 Peachree Road, Atlanta. westinbuckheadatlanta.com.
Mandarin Oriental
Mandarin Oriental Atlanta reimagines itself as a winter wonderland. From Dec. 19 to 23, the hotel’s garden transforms into a winter village complete with Christmas decorations and fire pits. Enjoy festive snacks, mulled wine and hot chocolate while you roast s’mores. Holiday movies or live music offered nightly; full entertainment list below. Entrance is complimentary.
7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 19 - “Home Alone”
6:30-9 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 20 - Live music
7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 21 - “Love Actually”
6:30-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 22 - Live music
7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 23 - “It’s a Wonderful Life”
5-10 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, Dec. 19-23. Mandarin Oriental, 3376 Peachtree Road. 404-995-7500, mandarinoriental.com.
Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta
The Four Seasons’ staff prepares a special brunch for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Celebrate the holiday with a buffet featuring seasonal favorites; reservations can be made at 404-881-9898. The brunch costs $115; $50 for children; and is complimentary for kids 5 and under.
10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Dec. 24-25. Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta, 75 14th St., Atlanta. 404-881-9898, fourseasons.com.
About the Author