Things to Do

Free ways to entertain your out-of-town guests in Atlanta

Dec 19, 2024

Family and friends will be arriving soon to spend the holidays with you — and you’ll need to entertain them. Whether you’re searching for family friendly fun, trying to impress your father-in-law or want to start new traditions, this guide has something for everyone coming to Atlanta, and they won’t cost you a dime.

Here are some free events you can find in metro Atlanta.

Light displays

Remember those magical childhood drives to see holiday lights? That tradition lives on, with spectacular displays throughout the metro area.

Make an evening of holiday cheer with Home Holiday Hunt. This free service lets you map out the best-decorated homes in your city, nominate your favorites and even rate them as you go. Perfect for creating a personalized festive light tour.

Snap pics with Santa

Pictures with the jolly ol’ elf himself don’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Just use your own phone to capture these memories of little ones.

Holiday movies

Get in the holiday spirit with your favorite films.

Keep in mind to check event websites for any last-minute changes — even Santa needs a schedule update sometimes.

Our picks this week

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution is your No. 1 source for things to do, see, make, buy and eat through the holidays. Here are our recommendations:

LISTEN: What’s on Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens’ holiday playlist?

DRINK: Here’s the holiday spirit Atlanta’s sipping this Christmas

DO: Seven places to show off your ice skating moves in and around Atlanta

VISIT: Full AJC holiday guide for things to do, buy and enjoy

For our full coverage of holiday events around metro Atlanta, check out the AJC’s Things to Do page.

About the Author

Avery Newmark covers travel, wellness, events and trending news for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With a dual background in film production and journalism, Avery came to the AJC after working as a video editor. She enjoys film photography and live music in her free time. Reach her at avery.newmark@ajc.com.

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