Fun Atlanta Christmas Parade Alternative for 2023: The Lighting at Colony Square

For years, the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Christmas Parade was a must-do, but the parade has now been replaced with a celebration at Colony Square.

The annual Children’s Holiday Parade has been replaced by The Lighting at Colony Square. This free event is still a great way to kick off the holiday season in Midtown Atlanta. Here’s everything you need to know about this event!

Atlanta Christmas Parade Alternative for 2023: The Lighting at Colony Square
Photo courtesy of Colony Square.

THE LIGHTING AT COLONY SQUARE

The Lighting at Colony Square, presented by Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, will be held Friday, December 1, 2023 at The Plaza at Colony Square in Midtown Atlanta.

This free event features live music, entertainment, activities and more. It all ends with the arrival of Santa Claus!

This is primarily a standing space only event, but there are seating areas throughout the property. Drinks will be available for purchase at the event bars in The Plaza.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

  • 5-7pm: Experience a holiday spectacular celebration featuring live music from A-Town A-List, festive drinks, photo opportunities, jolly entertainment + more. 
  • 6:45pm: Gather around The Plaza stage to kick off the official ceremony with host Kelly Crull with Bally Sports. Countdown to the lighting of the magnificent tree with Santa + their honorary tree lighter from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

PARKING

As with any Atlanta event, parking is always on everyone’s mind!

Colony Square’s Parking Garage is located in front of the complex at 14th + Peachtree Streets as well as on 14th + Juniper Streets. The garage is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is available for a fee. Valet is located in The Front Loop off Peachtree Street. 

My suggestion would be to take MARTA! The Midtown and Arts Center stations are close.  Kids love riding the train and you won’t have to walk far.

Bike parking is available in The Grove off 14th Street. 

SANTA SNACK TIME ON THE SQUARE

Looking for more holiday fun at Colony Square? Enjoy family time on The Square with holiday crafts, festive snacks, and Santa himself while enjoying a viewing of Merry Madagascar from the big screen at Santa Snack Time on the Square.

On December 12, 2023, the Plaza will transform into a holiday after-school destination complete with their Winter Square fire pits.  

Tickets are required and one ticket reserves one Winter Square with fire pit accommodating up to 5 guests  + s’mores snack kit.

WINTER SQUARES

Kick back around the fire pit in Midtown’s Living Room starting Monday, December 4th. Cozy up in one of Colony Square’s 12 Winter Squares located in The Plaza. Each one includes a cozy fire pit + seating for all guests to enjoy. 

Seating is first come, first served. Winter Squares cannot be reserved in advance. 

HOLIDAY MOVIES ON THE SQUARE

Kick-back and relax and enjoy a Holiday Movies on the Square. Bring the family and relax in one of their magical Winter Squares while enjoying classic holiday films in Midtown’s Living Room select Thursdays in December. 

One ticket is $45, but it reserves one Winter Square with fire pit accommodating up 4 guests + one bottle of red wine, so it’s really a great deal. Tickets on sale November 7 at 10:00 a.m.

Here is the movie schedule for 2023:

  • December 7: The Holiday
  • December 14: Elf
  • December 21: The Grinch
  • December 28: New Year’s Eve

MORE HOLIDAY FUN IN ATLANTA

WHERE TO STAY TO BE NEAR THE HOLIDAY FUN

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