Come shop for that perfect holiday gift, creative and unique, during this holiday retail exhibit! We will have a multitude of artistic and handcrafted items for sale, all made by our member artists. So whether it is jewelry, pottery, paintings, or anything in between, we have that unique gift for your holidays. Open Tuesday - Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Closed Monday
ENJOY ICE SKATING IN BLUE RIDGE THIS WINTER Glide into winter fun at Blue Ridge on Ice, the perfect spot to experience the magic of the season! Located beside the Swan Drive-In at the Blue Ridge Farmer’s Market, this outdoor rink invites skaters of all ages to lace up and enjoy the chill. After a few laps on the ice, warm up with tasty concessions like burgers, fries, hot dogs, and even deep-fried Oreos. Whether it’s a family outing, date night, or group event, Blue Ridge on Ice brings festive fun to every visit. Call (762) 210-8999 with questions or to arrange for groups! *Special catering for parties or group outings available
Starts Thursday, November 26th, 2026 - 6:00pm Closes Thursday, December 31st, 2026 - 9:00pm Mountain Country Christmas in Lights 2026, is a holiday treat for the entire family! The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds will transform into a spectacular, magical holiday walk through light show immersed in Christmas music, arts and crafts, food, fun, entertainment, photo opportunities, train rides, and visit with the Grinch, Mrs. Claus, and Santa! Detailed Hours: Event runs 6pm - 9pm Thursday, Friday, & Saturday from November 26th - December 12th. Open EVERY night from December 17th - 24th*! (closed Christmas Day) December 26th - 31st* will be drive thru only. Thursday, December 3rd - 6pm - 9pm - Towns County Residents Night Tuesday, December 8th - 5:30pm - 8:30pm - Nursing Home Drive Thru Wednesday, December 24 - Christmas Eve - Special Drive Thru ($25 cash only)
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical, by Jahnna Beecham and Malcom Hillgartner, is a hilarious and heartwarming holiday show for the whole family, and is directed by Lee Dittman and Bethany Jones. When the unruly Herdman kids — known as “the worst kids in the world” — show up at church and demand roles in the annual Christmas pageant, the town braces for disaster. But as rehearsals unfold, the true meaning of Christmas comes to life in the most unexpected and joyful way. Filled with catchy songs, laugh-out-loud moments, and a message of kindness and compassion, this musical adaptation of Barbara Robinson’s beloved book is a festive treat that will delight audiences of all ages. The musical premiered in 2016 at Alabama Shakespeare Festival to rave reviews and has since been embraced by theaters across the country, and has become a popular holiday staple for its humor, heart, and family-friendly spirit!
Join Blue Ridge Scenic Railway for a festive 1-hour train ride on the Holiday Express Experience. During your ride, you will get to listen to holiday music and "The Night Before Christmas" story. Children will receive a Blue Ridge Scenic Railway jingle bell, a candy cane, and a chance to see Santa Claus. Delicious hot chocolate and other snacks are available for purchase inside the concession car. This is one of the Train's most popular holiday events, so reserving tickets ahead of time is highly recommended.
SHE LOVES ME - DECEMBER 2-6, 9-13, 2026 In a 1920s perfume shop, coworkers Georg and Amalia can’t stand each other, but secretly fall in love as anonymous pen pals. When Georg discovers the truth, he must decide how to reveal it, leading to a heartfelt and romantic ending. She Loves Me is a charming musical comedy about love, identity, and seeing someone for who they truly are.
With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage that is run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. With the help of the other girls in the Orphanage, Annie escapes to the wondrous world of NYC. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations... and even befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt! She finds a new home and family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary, Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy. Rated G December 4-6, 10-13, 17-20, 2026 Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm Saturdays and Sundays at 2 pm Two hours and thirty minutes Adults $35, Students & Children $15 Military and Group Discounts Available No Refunds or Exchanges
It's a Wonderful Life is a 1946 American Christmas fantasy drama. It followsGeorge Bailey, a compassionate but deeply frustrated businessman who has continuously sacrificed his personal dreams for his community. On Christmas Eve, facing financial ruin, he contemplates suicide. His guardian angel, Clarence, intervenes by showing him what the world would have been like if he had never been born. George Bailey (played by James Stewart) grows up in the small town of Bedford Falls. Though he dreams of traveling the world and building skyscrapers, his sense of duty keeps him tied to his hometown. He takes over his father's modest Building and Loan company, protecting the town's working-class citizens from the greedy, monopolistic banker, Mr. Potter. On Christmas Eve, a mix-up results in the loss of an $8,000 deposit, threatening to bankrupt the business and send George to prison. Feeling worthless and believing his family and friends would be better off with him dead, George goes to a bridge to end his life. In heaven, prayers for George are heard, and a second-class angel named Clarence is dispatched to save him. To make George realize his own value, Clarence grants his wish to never have been born. George is plunged into an alternate reality ("Potterville") where: His loved ones' lives are vastly worse or tragic. The beautiful town of Bedford Falls has been corrupted into a bleak, crime-ridden slum. Horrified by the bleak reality, George begs to be given his life back. He returns to the bridge and is overjoyed to find himself back in his own, difficult reality. He runs home, where his wife, Mary, and the entire community of Bedford Falls rally together, donating more than enough money to save him and his business. George realizes that his modest, self-sacrificing life has profoundly touched countless others, and that "no man is a failure who has friends".
Experience the charm of a Victorian Christmas at Hardman Farm State Historic Site, featuring horse-drawn wagon rides, traditional Christmas decorations, and homemade sorghum Christmas cookies. Join us on Friday and Saturday nights, December 4h and 5th, 11th and 12th, and 18th and 19th, from 4 PM to 7 PM, for a festive journey back to Christmas in 1877. Visitors will feel as though they have stepped into a Christmas party hosted by the home’s first owners, the Nichols family, at “West-End,” the original name for Hardman Farm due to its location at the west end of the Nacoochee Valley. Reenactors dressed in period attire portray Captain Nichols, his wife Kate, their daughter Anna Ruby (after whom Anna Ruby Falls, located just north of Helen, is named), mother-in-law Augusta Latimer, and a host of friends celebrating the occasion. Guests can explore the mansion and interact with the reenactors, who will share insights about various Victorian Christmas traditions. Local musicians will fill the mansion with festive music each evening. The enticing aroma of freshly baked cookies draws visitors from the mansion to the historic kitchen located just off the back of the house. Bakers will prepare batches of homemade sorghum ginger cookies each night, using sorghum that is grown, pressed, and bottled right at Hardman Farm—a true holiday treat! Santa will be waiting to greet guests in the farm’s carriage house, just a few yards from the kitchen. Visitors can also enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride down the historic Unicoi Turnpike, which was once part of a Native American trading route. Gather around the fire pit for s’mores or visit the visitors’ center to shop for holiday gifts. Join us for a Victorian Christmas and create unforgettable holiday memories!
STUDIO 1 Performing Arts School presents “The Christmas Spectacular” Featuring the Nativity Story Friday December 11th 6:00 p.m. Fannin County High School Performing Arts Center Tickets $15.00
Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate the magic of the holiday season at CeNita’s 3rd Annual Christmas Wonderland. Spend the day at the vineyard enjoying a festive, family-friendly atmosphere filled with local artisans, seasonal cheer, and unforgettable holiday moments. Browse unique gifts and handmade treasures, meet Santa and his elves, and enjoy a variety of activities designed for kids and families alike. We’ll be announcing additional details, vendors, and activities as the event approaches, so be sure to save the date and plan to join us for a day full of holiday cheer. For vendors interested in participating, CeNita is currently accepting applications from local artists, makers, and specialty vendors. For more information, please reach out below events@cenitavineyards.com
Come on a guided hike to Smithgall Wood’s Chunanee Falls Trail this Holiday season! Learn about the origins or our favorite Christmas traditions and how they're still practiced and celebrated today. This hike is a moderate 1 mile. This is a wonderful opportunity to get some fresh air and movement into you week during this busy time of the year! Remember to bring water and dress for the weather. Reservations are required. Please call the visitor's center at 706-878-3087 for more information or to make your reservation.
Merry Christmas! Annual cookie contest Ugly sweater contest Live music by Nashville's own Chris Carpenter Wine bottle painting and Buddy the Elf selfies. Free admission Come celebrate the holidays with us!
STUDIO 1 Performing Arts School presents “The Nutcracker Ballet” Saturday, December 12th, 2026 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Fannin County High School Performing Arts Center Tickets $15.00
Join us for an evening of fellowship and celebration of the true meaning of Christmas. Enjoy Hot Chocolate, Hot Cider, Cookies, Children's Crafts, and Bonfires. Bring an unwrapped gift for a child 12 and under for the Union County Sheriff's Dept. toy drive. Please no toy guns or knives.
STUDIO 1 Performing Arts School presents “The Nutcracker Ballet” Saturday, December 12th, 2026 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Fannin County High School Performing Arts Center Tickets $15.00
This parade takes place Dec 12, 2026 at 6 p.m. Expect big things…and yes, the Big Man – Santa himself – will be there. Rain or shine! This is such a fun small-town parade with fire trucks, horses, dirt-buggies, unique floats, and TONS of candy! The best place to be is across the street from the Downtown Gazebo!
Music Bingo at Lucky's ⏰ Time: 6–8 PM 💰 Prizes: Lucky's Gift Cards 🎉 🎟️ FREE to play! 4 rounds of music-packed fun, great vibes, and your chance to win while enjoying delicious food and drinks. Don't miss out—gather your crew and join us for an unforgettable night! 🍹🎵
Have you always wanted to sit down with Santa Claus and enjoy a hot and hearty meal? Now you can! Visit the Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa for their Breakfast with Santa event, where families can get a once-in-a-lifetime experience of dining with Santa! Guests must purchase breakfast in the resort’s Dining Room.
Bill Vespasian is back at Lucky's tonight and you don't want to miss his show! He'll be here from 5-8 pm so come on by and have buy one get one free tacos - dine in only!
Christmas caroling has never been more festive than with the Macedonia Baptist Church’s annual Christmas Cantata, located at Towns County’s own Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds! Date: December 14, 2024 Location: Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Hours: 7:00 PM Have a holly jolly good time at the Country Music Capital of Georgia! Admission for the concert is $9 per person, children under 12 being free, and is included with the Mountain Country Christmas Lights admission.
With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage that is run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. With the help of the other girls in the Orphanage, Annie escapes to the wondrous world of NYC. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations... and even befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt! She finds a new home and family in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary, Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy. Rated G December 4-6, 10-13, 17-20, 2026 Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm Saturdays and Sundays at 2 pm Two hours and thirty minutes Adults $35, Students & Children $15 Military and Group Discounts Available No Refunds or Exchanges
Experience the charm of a Victorian Christmas at Hardman Farm State Historic Site, featuring horse-drawn wagon rides, traditional Christmas decorations, and homemade sorghum Christmas cookies. Join us on Friday and Saturday nights, December 4h and 5th, 11th and 12th, and 18th and 19th, from 4 PM to 7 PM, for a festive journey back to Christmas in 1877. Visitors will feel as though they have stepped into a Christmas party hosted by the home’s first owners, the Nichols family, at “West-End,” the original name for Hardman Farm due to its location at the west end of the Nacoochee Valley. Reenactors dressed in period attire portray Captain Nichols, his wife Kate, their daughter Anna Ruby (after whom Anna Ruby Falls, located just north of Helen, is named), mother-in-law Augusta Latimer, and a host of friends celebrating the occasion. Guests can explore the mansion and interact with the reenactors, who will share insights about various Victorian Christmas traditions. Local musicians will fill the mansion with festive music each evening. The enticing aroma of freshly baked cookies draws visitors from the mansion to the historic kitchen located just off the back of the house. Bakers will prepare batches of homemade sorghum ginger cookies each night, using sorghum that is grown, pressed, and bottled right at Hardman Farm—a true holiday treat! Santa will be waiting to greet guests in the farm’s carriage house, just a few yards from the kitchen. Visitors can also enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride down the historic Unicoi Turnpike, which was once part of a Native American trading route. Gather around the fire pit for s’mores or visit the visitors’ center to shop for holiday gifts. Join us for a Victorian Christmas and create unforgettable holiday memories!
Ornament decorating, Photos with Santa, Letter to Santa Station, Christmas Music Bingo, Holiday Sweater Contest, Family Gingerbread House decorating and more! Free Hot Chocolate throughout the event!
Join us for live music with Cody King, at Lucky's! He'll be performing from 6-9 pm tonight. And don't forget, buy one get one free tacos today, when you dine in!
Experience a Cherished Holiday Tradition in Historic Downtown Clarkesville The Candlelight Christmas Walk is an annual tradition hosted by the City of Clarkesville that brings the town together on foot. Walk with LED candles, caroling, church visits and Christmas story reading as the community gathers to celebrate the season in a meaningful way. This heartwarming evening begins at the Burns Sutton House (Norton Agency) at 855 Washington Street, and takes participants on a magical journey through Clarkesville's charming downtown, stopping at each church along Washington Street for caroling. LED candles are provided, and the event is free, making it accessible for families of all sizes. Between 6 and 8 p.m., residents move from the Norton real-estate building into the downtown, carrying candles as luminaries, visiting three churches before arriving at a small block party in the center of the historic square. Along the route, attendees enjoy music from First Presbyterian Church, Clarkesville First Methodist Church, and Clarkesville Baptist Church as voices blend outdoors. The experience continues at the square for a reading of the Christmas story, hot chocolate, and fellowship. This special Old World tradition has become part of many families' holiday traditions. It's a great way to get in the Christmas spirit and fun for all ages, making it perfect for creating lasting holiday memories with loved ones.
Join us at Lucky's for live music with Mountain Gypsy Music, from 6-9 pm tonight! Also, it's our BOGO taco day - all day long, when you dine in.
Come out to the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds and help us usher in 2027 with bang! Ring in 2027 at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds! FREE parking & admission to watch the Fireworks! The parking lot opens at 6pm. We will be selling hot dogs, chilli, Mexican cornbread, beer, wine, and The Donut man will be there with his hot and fresh mini donuts. Fireworks will be at 8pm! All are welcome to attend!
Join us as we ring in the New Year at the Festhalle with the Annual Dropping of the Edelweiss! Live Music Dancing Party Favors Heavy Hors D’oeuvres Champagne Toast at Midnight Beer & Wine Available for Purchase
Ring in 2027 at Unicoi Lodge’s Hollywood Speakeasy NYE Bash with glamour, champagne, hors d’oeuvres, and lodging packages!
Join State Parks nationwide and participate in your local First Day Hike on the historic Unicoi Turnpike. Perhaps the oldest road in Georgia, it was a trade route used by Native Americans prior to becoming a toll road in 1817.
Join the fun every Sunday 10 AM–2 PM at the Growers and Makers Market in The Garden at Nacoochee Village (7025 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545). This family-friendly weekend event in Helen Georgia is Free, and a pet-friendly + it’s a locals’ favorite outdoor activity offering plenty of free parking.
“Great news! The Holiday Inn Express of Helen will be the host hotel for the 48th Hogpen Hillclimb 18k and Cool River Tubing 5k. Pre-Race Registration and Packet Pick-up will be held in the Holiday Inn Express’ Conference Room and special room rates are available to all race participants who wish to arrive early and stay for the weekend – but rooms are limited so act now to take advantage of special room pricing. The Start/Finish line for the 5k and Start for the 18k will still begin at the River Pavilion –which is basically across the street from the Holiday Inn Express if you are unfamiliar with the area. So, book now and enjoy the weekend in Helen while supporting Habitat For Humanity of NE GA!”
Join the fun every Sunday 10 AM–2 PM at the Growers and Makers Market in The Garden at Nacoochee Village (7025 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545). This family-friendly weekend event in Helen Georgia is Free, and a pet-friendly + it’s a locals’ favorite outdoor activity offering plenty of free parking.
Karneval, Fastnacht, Mardi gras, Fasching... all of these refer to the season of celebration leading up to Ash Wednesday. Bring your friends and enjoy parties with costumes and live music. Laissez les bon temps rouler! January 22/23: Helen Huttengaudi Pub Crawl & Scavenger Hunt January 22: Party, Cowboys & Angels January 23: Party, Hofbrauhaus Restaurant January 29: Party, Heidelberg Restaurant January 30: Faschingsverein Helen Sidewalk Parade and Party, Helendorf River Inn February 5: Party, Heidelberg Restaurant February 6: Party, Helen Chamber of Commerce Festehalle
Join the fun every Sunday 10 AM–2 PM at the Growers and Makers Market in The Garden at Nacoochee Village (7025 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545). This family-friendly weekend event in Helen Georgia is Free, and a pet-friendly + it’s a locals’ favorite outdoor activity offering plenty of free parking.
PETER PAN AND WENDY - FEBRUARY 4-7, 11-14, 2027 Bold, budding scientist Wendy Darling dreams of earning a Nobel Peace Prize. When Peter Pan arrives at her bedroom window, she takes a leap and leaves finishing school behind, chasing adventure among the stars. Facing down fairies, mermaids, and the dastardly Captain Hook, Wendy, Peter Pan, and their friends discover the power of standing together for what’s right. J.M. Barrie’s classic Peter Pan is reimagined for a new generation of theatergoers as a bright and empowering play for all ages.
Join the fun every Sunday 10 AM–2 PM at the Growers and Makers Market in The Garden at Nacoochee Village (7025 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545). This family-friendly weekend event in Helen Georgia is Free, and a pet-friendly + it’s a locals’ favorite outdoor activity offering plenty of free parking.
PETER PAN AND WENDY - FEBRUARY 4-7, 11-14, 2027 Bold, budding scientist Wendy Darling dreams of earning a Nobel Peace Prize. When Peter Pan arrives at her bedroom window, she takes a leap and leaves finishing school behind, chasing adventure among the stars. Facing down fairies, mermaids, and the dastardly Captain Hook, Wendy, Peter Pan, and their friends discover the power of standing together for what’s right. J.M. Barrie’s classic Peter Pan is reimagined for a new generation of theatergoers as a bright and empowering play for all ages.
WinterFest is a two-day, multi-venue celebration of art, craft, music, and local history across multiple unique locations. Meet local and regional artists, enjoy live demonstrations and music, explore festive winter spaces, and discover one-of-a-kind artwork—all with free admission for a creative, community-filled weekend. Presidents Day Weekend Saturday, February 13, 10 AM - 5 PM Sunday, February 14, 10 AM- 4 PM
Join the fun every Sunday 10 AM–2 PM at the Growers and Makers Market in The Garden at Nacoochee Village (7025 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545). This family-friendly weekend event in Helen Georgia is Free, and a pet-friendly + it’s a locals’ favorite outdoor activity offering plenty of free parking.
Join the fun every Sunday 10 AM–2 PM at the Growers and Makers Market in The Garden at Nacoochee Village (7025 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545). This family-friendly weekend event in Helen Georgia is Free, and a pet-friendly + it’s a locals’ favorite outdoor activity offering plenty of free parking.
Join the fun every Sunday 10 AM–2 PM at the Growers and Makers Market in The Garden at Nacoochee Village (7025 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545). This family-friendly weekend event in Helen Georgia is Free, and a pet-friendly + it’s a locals’ favorite outdoor activity offering plenty of free parking.
Join the fun every Sunday 10 AM–2 PM at the Growers and Makers Market in The Garden at Nacoochee Village (7025 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545). This family-friendly weekend event in Helen Georgia is Free, and a pet-friendly + it’s a locals’ favorite outdoor activity offering plenty of free parking.
Can you hear that 1965 Porsche roar??? Well come check out 100+ cars lining Main Street, Clayton, GA in the NE GA mountains! From old pick-ups to new Porsches! Maybe even a Lambo! Hot rods to kit cars. Enjoy talking cars with owners and restorers! Lots of Food Trucks with Shrimp, BBQ, Sweets, Ice Cream - you name it! Check out music for the day! Some shops are open after 5PM- or you can just window shop and come visit later! There may even be a Soapbox Derby race at Main & Hiawassee from 12N-3PM - kids and adults having fun! www.visitclaytonga.net or Facebook page Visit Clayton!