Have you ever watched a Hallmark movie during the holidays and wish that you could jump into your TV screen to join the charming Christmas festivities in the sweet small towns?
They’re places where everyone knows each other, the visitors are welcomed with open arms, smiling faces fill the streets and the holidays serve as special moments for everyone involved.
Well, now you can! Often referred to as Georgia’s very own Hallmark town, Dahlonega is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains offering a charming city escape year round.
While there’s so much to do and see during every season in the small mountain town, the winter months become extra special as Dahlonega turns into a true Hallmark-like holiday wonderland.
From the lights on the trees, the sound of jingle bells in the air and daily festivities, visiting Dahlonega during December is a winter getaway that is sure to create a special memory for you and your family.
Like any getaway, we know it’s important for your stay to match the mood of your trip so that you receive the ultimate experience. With this in mind, we make sure that all of our StayDahlonega properties are cheerfully decorated for the holidays so you can enjoy this time of year and soak in the magic that the area has to offer.
We can see you now: after a long day of exploring and taking in all the festivities, you return to your beautifully lit cottage or treehouse and cozy up by a fire with a cup of hot cocoa to enjoy the evening. Your kids are laughing, your spouse is by your side and life feels good.
That scenario brings all the joy and we love being able to create those moments for you! For a closer look at our properties and to choose the one that best fits your trip, click here.
Dahlonega in December
Dahlonega has dubbed their holiday festivities to be known as Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas and it has become a major hot spot for holiday visitors.
As locals, we equally love the cheery feeling that visitors experience and do our best to take it all in each year as well!
Here’s the top ways that you can experience the magic of Christmas in Dahlonega this December:
Christmas Lights ✨
To kickstart the most magical season of all, there is an annual lighting of the square on November 25th. Complete with live holiday music, stores will display their garland and decor, as people line the streets to watch as the holiday lights begin to twinkle.
It’ll have you instantly feeling like you’re walking through a true winter wonderland! You can experience this magic through January 8, 2023.
Carriage Rides 🐴
Something very unique to Dahlonega during December are the horse drawn carriage rides that are offered each weekend, weather permitting.
While the rides are first come, first serve, if you’re lucky enough to get in line before it gets too crazy, it will have you thinking that you’re living out a true holiday fairytale.
This activity makes for the perfect date night after you dine at one of our Dahlonega favorites.
To receive real time details during December, follow their Facebook page.
Santa Visits 🎅🏼
The jolly big guy is a huge fan of Dahlonega in December and makes his way to the town square every weekend during the holiday season!
Make dreams come true for your kiddos with free Santa Visits in front of the square Christmas tree November 25, 2022 – December 18, 2022 and snap a family picture while you’re at it!
Fridays: 4-6pm | Saturdays: 12-6pm | Sundays: 1-5pm
Festival of Trees 🎄
Every December Hancock Park, located right off the historic square, becomes lined with one-of-a-kind themed trees that have been sponsored by members of the local community. You can stroll the park every night December 3 – December 31, 2022.
Pro Tip: ditch the long restaurant lines and enjoy a food truck dinner in the park while admiring the twinkling lights on Saturdays in December!
Christmas Market 🛍
The annual Dahlonega Christmas Market is hosted every year by the Dahlonega Women’s Club, so you can shop for unique gifts and yummy homemade treats to commemorate your winter getaway.
In 2022, the market will take place the first two weekends of December on Fridays and Saturdays from 10am-5pm.
Christmas Parade 🎉
To formally welcome the holiday season, Dahlonega hosts an old-fashioned Christmas parade each year for families to enjoy together. Rain or shine, the parade will take place throughout the town square on December 10th at 11am.
Pro Tip: grab a coffee or hot cocoa from the seasonal menu at Jethro’s to keep you warm before you claim your spot to watch the parade!
Holiday Musicals at Holly Theatre 🎶
The Holly Theatre is always a go-to spot for date nights in Dahlonega and they put on the best shows during the holidays. Click here to view their upcoming event calendar and to grab your tickets!
Overall, Dahlonega in December has been designed to bring you and your family extra joy and here at StayDahlonega, we’re grateful that we can be a tiny part of helping you plan and create these experiences!
Wishing you and yours a jolly season 🥂 The Stipes