Gingerbread Houses, Elf Tuck-Ins, Ice-Skating and More

Just outside Atlanta, The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee goes all out for the holidays, bringing festive cheer to the lakeside. Things kick off on November 27 with the Lighting of the Lake, where Santa makes a memorable entrance (each year’s arrival is a new surprise!) to flip the switch on hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights, including a towering Christmas tree on the lawn. It’s pure magic for the little ones — and let’s be honest, just as exciting for grown-ups too.

From cozy breakfasts with Santa and gingerbread workshops to building your own cuddly holiday bear, the holiday spirit is everywhere.

Families can look forward to special touches like story time with Mrs. Claus, nighttime elf tuck-ins, and magical elf deliveries to make the season even more unforgettable. Here’s a peek at the festive experiences planned for this season at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee:

• Annual Lighting at the Lake: Wednesday, November 27, kick off the season with a night full of live entertainment, sweet treats, and holiday fun 

• The Winter Forest: Be sure to check out the signature Winter Forest on the lawn with a 5,000 sq. ft. ice skating rink, Ice Lounge with plush sofas and twinkle lights, and the Sand Bar—a retro trailer outfitted with holiday cheer and serving up hot cocoa, apple cider and hot toddies; and a Snow Globe Photo Booth with festive props.

• Breakfast with Santa: Children of all ages will delight in our Breakfast with Santa, where your child’s wish list can be shared with him personally. December 15, 21, and 22 with seatings at 8:30 and 10:30

• Build a Buddy: Build your “beary” own holiday friend you will love for a lifetime! Traditional and festive bears are available for all ages. December 15, 21, and 22 at 2:00 and 2:30 pm 

• Gingerbread Workshop: Join Mrs. Claus and her elves in building a Gingerbread house. She will supply the pre-built house, candy, icing, and a box in which to take your creation home. December 15, 21, and 22 (reservations available from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.)

• Story Time With Mrs. Claus: As the most beloved storyteller, listen to timeless tales and festive stories from Mrs. Claus herself. December 15, 20, 21 (complimentary for all resort guests) 

• Christmastime Dinner: Enjoy the Christmas holiday gathered around the table with friends and family at Linger Longer Steakhouse, Amore del Lago, or Gaby’s by the Lake. Special menu items will be available at each restaurant. Tuesday, December 24, and Wednesday, December 25, 2024

• Elf Tuck-Ins, Letters to the North Pole, and Elf Deliveries: For the little ones, delight in holiday surprises such as a specialized elf tuck-in at bedtime for a holiday story, a personalized bag of goodies—handpicked by Santa himself, and a Santa-signed book, all delivered by one of Santa’s helpers. Stop by the concierge to ensure your letters make it directly to the North Pole, and return to holiday magic in your room with a special delivery of sweet treats, and a special surprise from one of Santa’s helpers. 

• Enchanted Forest New Year’s Eve Gala: Raise a glass in your classy cocktail attire as you and the family ring in the New Year, dancing the night away in the Grand Ballroom. As the adults enjoy delectable hors d’oeurves and sip expertly crafted cocktails, the kids will illuminate the night with their own glow-in-the-dark bash in the Reynolds Ballroom. Tuesday, December 31, 9:00 pm – 12:30 am ($330 per guest, $75 per child) 

• New Year’s Eve Feast: Special holiday menus for the perfect last meal of 2024 at Linger Longer Steakhouse, Amore del Lago, and Gaby’s by the Lake. (reservations required for all but Gaby’s by the Lake)

• Annual New Year’s Day Polar Plunge: Jump into the New Year in an exhilarating way, whether you’re dipping a toe or jumping off the dock. Shake off the chill and sip steaming coffee and indulgent hot cocoa, and don’t forget to come dressed to impress in funny or creative costumes for a chance to win prizes!