How to Celebrate the Holidays in Alpharetta (2024)

Alpharetta, Georgia knows how to do the holidays right. From sparkling tree lightings to quirky pop-ups and all the shopping your heart desires, this town turns into a festive playground each winter. Whether you’re creating new traditions or sticking with old favorites, here’s how Alpharetta can make your holiday season unforgettable.

Holiday Pop-Ups That Bring the Cheer

Holiday pop-ups aren’t just for trendy drinks—they’re about creating memories with a side of holiday spirit. Here are a few you can’t miss this year:

Elf’d UP Pop-Up Bar
Starting November 22, head to Up on the Roof Alpharetta for a dash of elf-approved mischief. It’s got all the holiday vibes without feeling like the same old routine. Bonus: the views from Up on the Roof make the experience even sweeter.

Grinchmas Pop-Up Bar
Feeling a little “bah humbug”? Mercantile Social has a Grinch-inspired experience running through December 31 that’s so fun even the grumpiest among us will smile. Think Whoville-themed bites and drinks that taste like holiday magic.

The Cape Restaurant & Beach Bar Holiday Pop-Up
Pink Christmas? Yes, please. The Cape brings cozy igloos, festive cocktails, and twinkling lights that will leave you feeling all kinds of merry and bright.

Tree and Menorah Lightings That Shine Bright

There’s nothing quite like watching a tree or menorah lighting to kick off the season. Alpharetta’s line-up this year brings big moments filled with sparkle and joy.

• The Hamilton’s Christmas Tree Lighting: November 22, 5–7 p.m.
• Downtown Alpharetta Tree Lighting: November 23, 5–9 p.m.
• Lighting of Avalon: November 24, 1–8 p.m.
• Menorah Lighting in Downtown Alpharetta: December 25, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
• Menorah Lighting at Avalon: December 29, 5–6 p.m.

Gather your friends, sip on hot cocoa, and soak in the holiday spirit.

Can’t-Miss Performances and Activities

If you want to take the festivities up a notch, Alpharetta’s holiday performances and activities will get you there. Here are a few highlights:

• The Nutcracker – December 13–15, Metropolitan Ballet Theatre brings this classic to Innovation Academy.
• Alpharetta Symphony’s Holiday Performance – December 1, 3–5 p.m. Feel the music of the season fill the room.
• Snow Day at Alpharetta City Center – December 14, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Yes, snow in Georgia. Don’t miss it!

Shop, Stroll, and Sip Your Way Through Festive Markets

Shopping in Alpharetta is already top-tier, but holiday markets add an extra layer of fun. Skip the mall crowds and find unique gifts at these events:

• Artist Market Indoor Art Festival – December 14–15 at North Point Mall. Think handmade art and one-of-a-kind finds.
• Holiday Shopping Shuttle – December 7, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Forget parking hassles—the free hop-on, hop-off shuttle connects you to markets like the Alpharetta Christmas Market, Heartfelt Holiday Market, and Avalon’s Artisan Faire.

Grab your shopping list and get ready to check off every name.

Santa’s Many Stops in Alpharetta

Santa isn’t just hanging at the North Pole—he’s spending plenty of time right here in Alpharetta.

• Santa at Avalon: November 25–December 24
• Story Time with Santa at Avalon: November 25–December 23
• Free Photos with Santa: December 7, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. at the Alpharetta Visitors Bureau
• Holly Jolly Pines: November 23–December 24 at North Point Mall

Whether it’s for the kids or the kid at heart, make time to snap a photo and soak in the joy.