The winter holidays are coming up, which means it’s time to start thinking about finding the perfect gifts, enjoying special outings with friends and family and creating magical memories of the season.
This year’s guide offers a list of festive family-friendly events, as well as places to shop and ways to give back both in Johns Creek and in neighboring communities. Happy Holidays!
Holiday fun
NOVEMBER
November 14
Historic Norcross Holiday Open House
11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Downtown Norcross
norcrossga.net
Admission: free
Get into the holiday spirit at this annual event featuring festive decor throughout the heart of downtown along with door prizes, sales and refreshments from local shops and restaurants.
November 14–January 6
Glow Light Show
6 p.m.–10 p.m.
Coolray Field, Lawrenceville
glowlightshow.com
Admission: $39.99+ per vehicle
A dazzling, drive-through Christmas light show, with over 1 million LED lights synchronized to music.
November 19–January 3
Southeastern Railway Museum Festival of Trees
Multiple days & times
Southeastern Railway Museum, Duluth
train-museum.org
Admission: $19 adults; $13 children
This annual festival features over 100 holiday trees designed and installed by members of the community, along with the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus by train on November 21. Guests can enjoy train rides, the Festival of Trees and access to the entire museum with general admission tickets.
November 20–December 24
Christkindl Market
Multiple days/times
The Lawrenceville Lawn
christkindlmarket.org/lawrenceville
Admission: free
Experience the magic of the season and shop for international and local hand-crafted gifts at this outdoor holiday market. An Atlanta tradition, the market also features German festivities, food and drink, rides, activities and Santa Claus.
November 21
Tree Lighting at The Forum
5 p.m.-7 p.m.
The Forum at Peachtree Corners
theforumpeachtree.com
Admission: free
Join friends and neighbors on The Plaza at The Forum for an official start to the holiday season. Live performances, activities, the arrival of Santa and the lighting of the tree are the highlights of this festive annual event.
November 21
Gwinnett Glows
Starting at 5 p.m.
Gas South Convention Center
gassouthdistrict.com/events/detail/gwinnett-glows-2026
Tickets: free
Enjoy food trucks and hot cocoa, venders and crafts, a lantern parade and photo opportunities at this community tree lighting celebration presented by Coca-Cola.
November 21–29
Georgia Festival of Trees
Multiple days/times
Gas South Convention Center
gafestivaloftrees.org
Tickets: $19.99+
Get into the festive spirit at this annual, family-friendly holiday event. Explore a forest of beautifully decorated trees that are up for auction. Enjoy live music and entertainment. And browse through charming vendor shops to pick up the perfect holiday gifts.
November 23–December 24
Santa at The Forum
Multiple days and times
The Forum at Peachtree Corners
theforumpeachtree.com
Admission: free
Kids of all ages are invited to meet Santa at his North Pole-inspired cottage on the North Plaza from the end of November through December 24. To guarantee your special time and photo with Santa, make your reservation online ahead of time. Walk-ups will only be accepted if time allows.
November 27
Merry Medley
4 p.m.-8 p.m.
Medley at Johns Creek
2140 Medley Blvd., Johns Creek
medleyjohnscreek.com
Kick off the holidays with festive family fun, a holiday concert, curated performances, skating on the Plaza and a spectacular fireworks finale.
November 27–February 7
Skate the Plaza
Various days/hours
Medley at Johns Creek
2140 Medley Blvd., Johns Creek
medleyjohnscreek.com
Lace up your skates, celebrate the season and enjoy outdoor ice skating and seasonal fun as Medley’s plaza transforms into a winter destination.
November 27 & 28
The Nutcracker presented by Northeast Atlanta Ballet
Multiple showtimes
Gas South Theater, Duluth
gassouthdistrict.com
Tickets: $35.92+
A classic, family-friendly rendition of the holiday classic, featuring lavish scenery, lush costumes and the familiar music of Tchaikovsky.
DECEMBER
December 1, 8, 15 & 22
Holly Jolly Hangout with Santa
4 p.m.-6 p.m.
The Forum at Peachtree Corners
theforumpeachtree.com
Spend an evening hanging out on The Plaza with Santa, and enjoy cocoa, cookies and a classic holiday tale read by the Big Man himself. Tickets will be available for purchase starting November 2 at 10 a.m. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Peachtree Farm’s Growing a Home campaign.
December 2, 9 & 16
Pet Photos with Santa
6 p.m.-8 p.m.
The Forum at Peachtree Corners
theforumpeachtree.com
Admission: free
Bring your four-legged, feathered or scaly companions to meet Santa at his North Pole-inspired cottage on the North Plaza and get holiday photos to cherish for a lifetime. Pet photos with Santa are walk-up only, on a first-come, first-served basis.
December 4
Norcross Holiday Celebration
5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
Thrasher Park, Norcross
norcrossga.net
Admission: free
Enjoy carriage rides, live performances of holiday hits, hot cocoa and a special appearance by Santa and his not-so-jolly friend, the Grinch.
December 4
Holly Jolly Block Party
6 p.m.-8 p.m.
The Boardwalk at Town Center
Lakefield Drive, Johns Creek
johnscreekga.gov
Admission: free
This annual holiday event is fun for the whole family, with a visit from Santa, live performances, hot cocoa and the lighting of the city’s 40-foot Christmas tree.
December 4–18
Holiday Carriage Rides
6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
Skin Alley, behind 45 South Cafe
Downtown Norcross
norcrossga.net
Admission: free
Enjoy complimentary carriage rides every Thursday and Friday from 6:30–8:30 p.m. in Historic Downtown Norcross. Dazzling lights, winter decor and festive tunes are part of the magic.
December 5
Historic Norcross Christmas Village
11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Downtown Norcross
norcrossga.net
Admission: free
Step into a winter wonderland in Historic Downtown Norcross, with face painting, photos with Santa, Christmas carolers and more. Guests will also enjoy appearances by Disney princesses, Frosty the Snowman and Buddy the Elf, as well as shopping, kids crafts, a Candy Cane Lane Kids Zone and pop-up bars for the grownups.
December 5
Deck the Hall
2 p.m.–7 p.m.
Downtown Duluth
duluthga.net
Admission: free
Deck the hall in downtown Duluth with a holiday celebration featuring live entertainment, crafts, a snow playground and slide, photo ops with Santa, a holiday market and more.
December 5
Holiday Pops with the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra
4:30 p.m.
Innovation Academy, Alpharetta
johnscreeksymphony.org/holiday
Tickets: $40-$55; free for students
A celebration of community, connection and the joy of the holiday season, timed to coincide with the Alpharetta Christmas Market. This family-friendly concert will feature Christmas favorites, festive sing-alongs and special performances by the Johns Creek Community Choir.
December 5, 6, 11 & 12
The Nutcracker presented by Gwinnett Ballet Theatre
Multiple showtimes
Gas South Theater, Duluth
gassouthdistrict.com
Tickets: $32.55+
The 45th annual production of the classic tale presented by the Gwinnett Ballet Theatre, featuring a live orchestra, dazzling costumes and spectacular scenery.
December 6
Tree Lighting & Winterfest
Starting at 2 p.m.
Perimeter Church
9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek
perimeter.org/winterfest
Admission: free
Join Perimeter Church for an afternoon of winter fun. Live music, winter-themed inflatables, ballet, treat trucks, an ice skating rink and special tree lighting will be part of the festivities.
December 6
Menorah Lighting
4 p.m.-5 p.m.
The Forum at Peachtree Corners
theforumpeachtree.com
Admission: free
Join The Forum and the Chabad Enrichment Center of Gwinnett for a special Chanukah celebration. Guests will enjoy Chanukah treats, arts & crafts, themed entertainment, photo opportunities and the lighting of the six-foot-tall Menorah on The Plaza.
December 6
Annual Christmas Cantata
4 p.m.
Christ the King Lutheran Church
5575 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners
ctklutheran.org
Admission: free
This free, annual Christmas concert is a joyful event for whole family. The community is welcome to attend.
December 12
Breakfast with Santa
9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.
Park Place at Newtown Park, Johns Creek
johnscreekga.gov/recreation-parks/special-events/breakfast-with-santa/
Admission: $20 per resident child; $30 per non-resident child
Breakfast with Santa is offered at two seating times. Guests will enjoy spending time with Santa, posing for holiday photos and lots of goodies, music and holiday crafts. Children must be accompanied by an adult (limit two adults per family).
December 12
Cookies with Santa
1:30 p.m. & 3 p.m.
Park Place at Newtown Park, Johns Creek
johnscreekga.gov/recreation-parks/special-events/breakfast-with-santa/
Admission: $20 per resident child; $30 per non-resident child
Cookies with Santa is offered at two seating times. Guests will enjoy spending time with Santa, posing for photos and lots of treats, music and holiday crafts. Children must be accompanied by an adult (limit two adults per family).
December 12
St. Nicholas Photo Experience & Market
9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Mary Our Queen Catholic Church
6260 The Corners Parkway, Peachtree Corners
maryourqueen.com; 770-416-0002
Admission: free
Everyone is invited to shop merchants to support fundraising drives, enjoy treats and coloring for children of all ages and meet St. Nicholas — reserve a photo session with the legendary saint of generosity.
December 12
Star of Wonder with the Johns Creek Chorale
7 p.m.-9 p.m.
Johns Creek United Methodist Church
Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek
johnscreekchorale.com
Tickets: $25
This grand holiday celebration features children’s and youth choirs, along with the Chorale performing John Rutter’s Gloria with the Georgia Brass Band.
December 12
A Charlie Brown Christmas Performed by
TT Mahoney and Jeffrey Butzer
8 p.m.; doors open at 7 p.m.
Red Clay Music Foundry, Duluth
eddieowenpresents.freshtix.com/events/charliebrownxmas2026
Admission: $30-$41
The duo and a few special guests will perform Vince Guaraldi’s classic songs, along with other holiday hits.
December 12–31
Neighborhood Christmas Train Experience
Multiple days and times
Peachtree Campus
3135 Reps Miller Road, Norcross
neighborhoodchristmastrain.com
Tickets: $8 per person
One of the largest model Christmas train displays in metro Atlanta. The model village, lit up and glowing for the holidays, includes over 300 homes, shops, diners, an amusement park and other buildings. Six running Lionel Trains traveling through the villages add to the excitement. Private parties may be booked Dec. 1–11. Special theme nights are planned for the rest of the month.
December 17–20
“Holiday Punch 2026”
Multiple showtimes
Lionheart Theatre Company
10 College St., Norcross
lionhearttheatre.org; 404-919-4022
Admission: $18/$20
A collection of eight 10-minute family-friendly plays all dealing with the comedy, warmth and sometimes drama of the holiday season — Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and more.
Finding the perfect gift
Whether you want to shop local this year, support neighborhood businesses or find a unique gift from a specialty boutique, the following list may help you get started.
Blossom & Vine
blossomandvine.com; 770-694-2206
Independent, European-inspired flower shop in Johns Creek offering floral arrangements, plants, gardening supplies and gift items.
Corners Fine Wines & Spirits
cornersfinewineandspirits.com; 470-242-3939
Expansive Peachtree Corners wine and liquor shop that also sells gift items, including RIEDEL glassware, curated bar supplies, cocktails napkins, greeting cards and more.
Freckles & Co.
frecklesco.com; 770-856-0535
Local design, gifts and home goods shop located in historic downtown Norcross. They offer a curated selection of books, candles, art, décor, kitchen goods, gift items and more.
Grapes & Grains
grapesandgrains.com; 770-884-2450
Wine, beer and spirits shop with a generous selection, knowledgeable staff, drive-thru pickup and more.
Johns Creek Books
johnscreekbooks.com; 770-696-9999
Local, independent, woman-owned bookstore stocking new and gently used books, gift items and a fun selection of used CDs, DVDs and board games.
Pine + Pigment
pineandpigment.com; 470-252-8006
Local gift shop, featuring curated items, home décor pieces, artisan goods and unique gifts. With two locations: one in Cumming and one at The Forum in Peachtree Corners.
NX Vinyl
nxvinyl.com; 770-769-2220
Indie record store in downtown Norcross selling new and used vinyl, a small selection of CDs, audio equipment and music-related merchandise.
Scoffrey’s Chocolate
scoffrey’s.com; 770-686-7597
Local, online chocolate shop featuring handcrafted gourmet chocolates and treats, with seasonal holiday offerings, gift boxes and novelty items.
Shops at Medley
medleyjohnscreek.com
The newly opened “third place” in Johns Creek features a selection of shops offering gift items, home goods, clothing and more, including several that are local and independently run.
Taste of Britain
tasteofbritain.com; 770-242-8585
Located in downtown Norcross, this shop specializes in all things British. Food items (pantry and frozen), home goods, tea and tea accessories, soaps and lotions and a large selection of Christmas treats and gifts are just a few of the things you’ll find.
Help for the holidays
If you’d like to give back to the community — or if you could use a little help this year — here are a few places in and around the city that accept donations (and volunteers) and offer a helping hand to those in need.
Christmas for Kids 2026 — partnering with The Place, Bike Alpharetta and Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries, Johns Creek Baptist Church is offering ways to help families in need for the holidays, from purchasing gifts or donating new coats and blankets to volunteering your time.
Contact: jcbc.org/christmas-for-kids; 678-474-4400.
Duluth Co-op — offering food pantry pickups, classes, emergency assistance with utility bills and other important services to families in need in the 30096 and 30097 zip codes.
Contact: duluthco-op.org; 770-623-9563
Malachi’s Storehouse — provides drive-up food pantry and clothing pickup every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church in Dunwoody. In-person donations are accepted on Tuesdays between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Contact: malachis.org; 770-455-6523
Neighborhood Cooperative Ministry — serving the needs of at-risk residents from Norcross, Peachtree Corners and the Gwinnett County portion of Doraville and Tucker.
Contact: ourncm.org; 770-263-0013
