NOVEMBER
ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN
Nov. 19-Jan. 7 Garden Lights, Holiday Nights, a showcase of enormous botanical-inspired light displays throughout the grounds. 5-10 PM (except. Dec. 24 & 31). 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE. atlantabotanicalgarden.org. 404/876-5859.
MJCCA BOOK FESTIVAL
Through Nov. 20 A highlight of Atlanta's literary calendar for 20 years, the Book Festival of the MJCCA presents more than 40 of the year's best and brightest authors in a variety of forums, including: beloved American media personality Regis Philbin; United States Senator Joe Lieberman; Academy Award-winning actress Dyan Cannon; political commentator Chris Matthews; political journalist and moderator Jim Lehrer; and many more. For tickets, call 678/812-4002, or visit atlantajcc.org.
BULLOCH HALL EVENTS
Nov. 19-Dec. 30 A Christmas Carol at Bulloch Hall, Charles Dickens’ tale will be portrayed through the house. Self-guided tours: 10 AM-4 PM Mon.-Sat., 1-4 PM Sun. $8 ($6, children).
180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell. bullochhall.org. 770/992-1731.
CALLAWAY GARDENS
Nov. 18-Dec. 30 20th annual Fantasy in Lights®, Christmas spectacular with 8 million lights and over a dozen custom scenes in a dazzling outdoor display.
Pine Mountain. 1-800-CALLAWAY. callawaygardens.com.
DAHLONEGA’S OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS
Nov. 25-Dec. 31 Month-long celebration kicks off with Lighting of the Square on Nov. 25 and home-town parade with Santa’s arrival on Dec. 3, plus festive holiday events throughout December, with caroling, entertainment, wine sampling and live theater Christmas events. dahlonega.org. 706/864-3513.
HAY HOUSE EVENTS
Nov. 19-Dec. 31 Christmas at Hay House. Tour this Italian Renaissance Revival mansion decked with greenery and Victorian decorations. Daily guided tours. $11 (under 6, free).
934 Georgia Ave., Macon. 478/742-8155. hayhouse.org.
IMAGINE IT! CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ATLANTA
Through Jan. 22 “Once Upon a Time...Exploring the World of Fairy Tales.”
Open daily. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., NW. 404/659-KIDS. childrensmuseumatlanta.org.
IMAX® THEATRE AT FERNBANK MUSEUM
Through Jan. 1 “Hubble.” Journey through distant galleries and marvel at Hubble Space Telescope’s legacy.
Through Jan. 1 “Galapagos.”Explore the biological diversity and unique geologic history of the Galapagos archipelago.
On-going Martinis & IMAX, 6:30-11 PM Fridays, mix of culture and cocktails, with live music and DJ. 404/929-6400.
$13 ($11, ages 3-12). Fernbank Museum of Natural History, 767 Clifton Road. 404/929-6300. fernbankmuseum.org.
MARIETTA SQUARE FARMERS MARKET
Through Nov. 19 Fresh, locally grown, seasonal produce and garden products for sale from 9 AM-noon Saturdays on North Park Square in Historic Marietta Square. 770/499-9393.
ROSWELL EVENTS
Nov. 17 Roswell Tellabration, part of a world-wide storytelling event. 770/640-3253.
STONE MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS
Nov. 12-Jan. 2 (select nights) A winter wonderland with two million lights, parade, live shows, strolling carolers, Santa and the Snow Angel, Polar Express 4D, sing-a-long train, holiday laser show and more at St. Mtn. Park. Adventure pass, plus park entry fee. 770/498-5690. stonemountainpark.com.
DECEMBER
ALPHARETTA CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION
Dec. 4 Farmers Market vendors and craft vendors will display their holiday wares from 1-6:30 PM on Milton Avenue. Retail shops will hold Open House. 678/860-2776. alpharettafarmersmarket.com.
Dec. 4 Alpharetta City Band Holiday Concert, 3 PM, Alpharetta Adult Activity Center, 13450 Cogburn Road. 678/297-6140.
Dec. 4 34th annual Christmas Tree Lighting, 5 PM in Historic Downtown Alpharetta, Two South Main St., with music, children’s performances, train rides, and the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus by fire truck. 678/297-6078. alpharetta.ga.us. awesomealpharetta.com.
Dec. 10 Pet Photos with Santa Claws, 12 PM, Waggy World Dog Park, 175 Roswell St. One free photo per family. 678/297-6130.
APPLE ANNIE CRAFTS AND ARTS SHOW
Dec. 2, 3 31st annual juried show of original arts and crafts by over 100 of the Southeast’s finest artisans, plus homemade soups and goodies by St. Ann’s Women’s Guild, at St. Ann Catholic Church, 4905 Roswell Road, Marietta. 9 AM-7 PM Fri., 9 AM-2 PM Sat. st-ann.org.
ARCHIBALD SMITH PLANTATION HOME
Through Dec. 30 “Dear Santa, All I Want For Christmas Is…” The historic home is trimmed for the season by The Roswell Garden Club. $8 ($7 seniors, $6 children). Tours daily. 935 Alpharetta St., Roswell.
Dec. 3 Gingerbread Christmas
kids workshops at 10:30 & 11:30 AM and 1 & 2 PM. Ages 6 and up. $10. Advance reservations only.
archibaldsmithplantation.org. 770/641-3978.
ATLANTA BALLET’S “NUTCRACKER” TEAS
Dec. 4, 11, 18 Nutcracker Tea, 2:30-5 PM, Four Seasons Atlanta, 75 Fourteenth St. 404/881-9898.
Dec. 17, 18, 19 Nutcracker Tea at 11 AM & 2:30 PM at The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead, 3434 Peachtree Road, NE, Atlanta. 404/ 237-2700.
Young dancers from Atlanta Ballet’s “Nutcracker” perform vignettes, Santa makes his appearance, and children can enjoy hot chocolate and seasonal sweets. Reservations required.
ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN
Dec. 10 Reindog Parade, 11 AM-1 PM, hosted by Victoria Stilwell of Animal Planet’s “It’s Me or the Dog.” Dress your pooch in holiday finery to compete or just show off.
Through Jan. 7 Garden Lights, Holiday Nights, a showcase of enormous botanical-inspired light displays throughout the grounds. 5-10 PM (except. Dec. 24 & 31).
1345 Piedmont Ave. NE. atlantabotanicalgarden.org. 404/876-5859.
ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER
Dec. 15, 20 The Holiday Spirit, 5:30-9 PM. A friendly holiday spirit from Christmas present introduces guests to ghosts from Christmases past at the Smith Family Farm and Swan House. The festive fun also includes musical performances, farm demonstrations, hands-on activities, candlelit trails and kid-friendly crafts. 130 West Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta. 404/814-4000. atlantahistorycenter.com.
BACK-TO-NATURE HOLIDAY MARKET
Dec. 3 Browse hand-made and eco-friendly goods from 40 vendors at the Chattahoochee Nature Center, from 10 AM-4 PM. Offerings range from original art and ornaments to candles and clothing. Musical entertainment will be on tap, with lunch and desserts available for purchase, plus free admission to CNC, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell. 770/992-2055 ext. 236. chattnaturecenter.org.
BARRINGTON HALL
Through Dec. 30 “A Very Southern Christmas.” Explore the unique traditions that make Christmas in the South a truly memorable experience. $8 ($7 seniors, $6 children). 535 Barrington Dr., Roswell. southerntrilogy.com.
BULLOCH HALL EVENTS
Through Dec. 30 “A Christmas Carol at Bulloch Hall,” Charles Dickens’ tale will be portrayed through the house. Self-guided tours: 10 AM-4 PM Mon.-Sat., 1-4 PM Sun. $8 ($6, children).
Dec. 1, 6, 8, 13, 15 Christmas High Teas, 4 PM. A two-course tea served in candlelight by ladies in period clothing. RSVP.
Dec. 3 Manners with Snowflake Ballerina, 10-11:30 AM, ages 4-11. $10. Reservations required.
Dec. 17 Christmas for Kids for ages 5-11, with yule log and candy cane hunts, crafts, snack, storytelling, Mr. & Mrs. Claus and house tours. Reservations required.
Dec. 21 Mittie Bulloch and Theodore Roosevelt Sr.’s 1853 Wedding Reenactment, 6:30-9:30 PM. Reservations required.
180 Bulloch Ave., Roswell. bullochhall.org. 770/992-1731.
CALLANWOLDE FINE ARTS CENTER EVENTS
Dec. 5-18 Christmas at Callanwolde. Stroll through the magnificent Gothic-Tudor mansion decked for the season by Atlanta’s top interior and floral designers, enjoy a live cabaret performance, listen to the Aeolian pipe organ, shop for the perfect holiday gift. 10 AM-4 PM Mon.-Sat., 11 AM-4 PM Sun., extended hours 4-9 PM Fri. $20 ($15, seniors; $12, ages 4-12; free, under three).
Dec. 9, 16 Callanwolde Cabaret, 6-9 PM, featuring Libby Whittemore Dec. 9 & Janet Metzger, Dec. 16.
Dec. 10 Battle of the Ice with Atlanta Ice Marvels. 2 PM.
Dec. 10, 17 Breakfast with Santa, with breakfast from Chick-fil-A, live entertainment and Santa visits in the Courtyard at 9 AM. $20. RSVP.
Dec. 10, 17 Kid’s Crafts, 1-2 PM.
Dec. 11, 18 Teddy Bear Tea in the Courtyard at 3 PM, with tea and hot chocolate, sandwiches, pastries, live entertainment and Santa and elves. $25. RSVP.
980 Briarcliff Road NE, Atlanta. 404/872-5338. christmasatcallanwolde.org.
CALLAWAY GARDENS
Through Dec. 30 20th annual Fantasy in Lights®, Christmas spectacular with 8 million lights and over a dozen custom scenes in a dazzling outdoor display. Pine Mountain. 1-800-CALLAWAY. callawaygardens.com.
CAVALIA “ODYSSEO”
Dec. 7-Jan. 8 A procession of wonders unfolds under the white Big Top in downtown Atlanta with a dazzling equestrian show that features 69 horses and 50 acrobats, dancers, riders and musicians, whose performances are beautifully orchestrated in a dream-like virtual setting with live music. cavalia.net.
CHATTAHOOCHEE NATURE CENTER
Dec. 18 Gifts for Nature, 1-4 PM, with live reindeer and nature crafts. 9135 Willeo Road. For more information, call 770/992-2055.
CHICK-FIL-A BOWL
Dec. 31 44th annual rivalry game between the ACC and SEC at 7:30 PM in the Georgia Dome. 404/586-8499. chick-fil-abowl.com.
CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARADE
Dec. 3 31st annual parade in downtown Atlanta, 10:30 AM-noon. with marching bands, floats, giant balloons, Santa and more, following a 1.5-mile route from Peachtree Street near Baker to Centennial Olympic Park Drive. Benefits Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. choa.org.
CHRISTMAS IN ROSWELL
Dec. 1-Jan. 1 A flurry of holiday festivities, from historic tours to music, dance and theatrical performances. 770/641-3950. visitroswellga.com.
Dec. 3 Roswell’s Holiday Celebration on the Square kicks off at 5 PM with family activities, carolers, tree lighting and Santa.770/641-3705.
Dec. 3-4 Santa’s Secret Gift Shop open after tree lighting on Sat., and from 1-4 PM Sun. with elf-assisted shopping and gift-wrapping offered to children ages 12 and younger, plus button making, balloons, coloring and holiday fun at Roswell Adult Recreation Center.
Dec. 4 Caroling on Canton Street, 5-7:30 PM. 770/641-3721.
DAHLONEGA’S OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS
Nov. 25-Dec. 31 Month-long celebration kicks off with Lighting of the Square on Nov. 25 and home-town parade with Santa’s arrival on Dec. 3, plus festive holiday events throughout December, with caroling, entertainment, wine sampling and live theater Christmas events. dahlonega.org. 706/864-3513.
DECATUR CANDLELIGHT TOUR OF HOMES
Dec. 2, 3 29th annual holiday homes tour features several older homes and points of interest around the city of Decatur. 5:30-9:30 PM. $25. decaturtourofhomes.com.
DISNEY LIVE: PHINEAS AND FERB
Dec. 18 The Best LIVE Tour Ever! Phineas, Ferb and a cast of friends take the stage to build the most amazing invention ever in a high-energy adventure with inventive special effects, original choreography and hit songs from the animated series. 12:30 & 3:30 PM at Philips Arena, Atlanta. $15-$70. phineasandferblive.com. ticketmaster.com.
EVENING IN BETHLEHEM
Dec. 3 Roam through a 1st century marketplace, brought to life by costumed characters and animals, and witness a live production that tells the story of the very first Christmas at Roswell United Methodist Church, 814 Mimosa Blvd. Free. Reserve time for nativity at 5, 6 or 7 PM. 770/993-6218. rumc.com.
FERNBANK MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
Through Jan. 1 “Darwin,” features live animals, amazing fossils and an array of scientific tools used by one of the world’s most intriguing scientists.
Through Jan. 8 Winter Wonderland: Celebrations & Traditions Around the World, a festive exhibition and programming series featuring decorated trees, dance groups, musical acts, craft demonstrations and storytelling.
767 Clifton Road. 404/929-6300. fernbankmuseum.org.
HAY HOUSE CHRISTMAS
December Tour this Italian Renaissance Revival mansion decked with greenery and Victorian decorations. Daily guided tours. $11 (under 6, free). 934 Georgia Ave., Macon. 478/742-8155. hayhouse.org.
HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS FESTIVAL EVENT
Dec. 1-3 Fun and unique three-day festival includes a kickoff reception (see Parties for a Cause) and then two days of showcasing more than 100 of Georgia's best local artists. Shop The Art House for jewelry, clay, glass and small works that are perfect for holiday gifts Dec. 2-3, with 20% of your purchase benefiting five local charities. 404/564-3458.
IMAGINE IT! CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ATLANTA
Through Jan. 22 “Once Upon a Time...Exploring the World of Fairy Tales.” Venture into an enchanted storybook kingdom, from an African jungle to a giant’s castle. Open daily. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., NW. 404/659-KIDS. childrensmuseumatlanta.org.
IMAX® THEATRE AT FERNBANK MUSEUM
Through Jan. 1 “Hubble.” Journey through distant galleries and marvel at Hubble Space Telescope’s legacy.
Through Jan. 1 “Galapagos.”Explore the biological diversity and unique geologic history of the Galapagos archipelago.
On-going Martinis & IMAX, 6:30-11 PM Fridays, mix of culture and cocktails, with live music and DJ. 404/929-6400.
$13 ($11, ages 3-12). Fernbank Museum of Natural History, 767 Clifton Road. 404/929-6300. fernbankmuseum.org.
MACY’S PINK PIG TRAIN
Through Jan. 1 Ride Priscilla the Pink Pig as she makes tracks for the 58th season through a life-sized storybook beneath the 1950s-themed Pink Pig Tent on the upper-level parking deck at Lenox Square Mall, Atlanta. $3 per ride. Open daily (except Dec. 25).Benefits Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. macys.com/believe.
MADISON TOUR OF HOMES
Dec. 1-4 28th annual Town & Country Holiday Tour, presented by the Madison-Morgan Chamber of Commerce, features a variety of architectural styles in the historic district, with day tours offered from 10 AM-4 PM Thurs.-Sat. and 1-5 PM Sun., and candlelight tours from 5-9 PM Fri. & Sat. $30 ($25 advance). madisonga.org. 800/709-7406.
MAGICAL NIGHTS OF LIGHTS
Through Jan. 1 5-10 PM. Enjoy a 7-mile drive-through tour of animated holiday light displays at Lake Lanier Island Resort, plus a Holiday Village with carnival rides and games, pony rides and sweet treats, and holiday shopping and Santa visits at Santa’s Workshop. lakelanierislands.com.
MARIETTA PILGRIMAGE CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR
Dec. 3, 4 25th annual event features private historic homes and decorated public buildings. Day tour, $25; candlelight tour, $20; combination ticket, $30. mariettapilgrimage.com. 770/429-1115. 770/426-4982.
RHODES HALL SANTA
Dec. 3-11 Enjoy a winter wonderland of holiday fun at Rhodes Hall, with entertainment, music, refreshments, art activities and personal appointments with Santa. 1516 Peachtree St., N.W. Atlanta. $35 family admission. 404/885-7812. georgiatrust.org.
ROSWELL GHOST TOUR
Ongoing Learn about the unique history and stories of paranormal activity through experienced paranormal investigators on this walking tour. 8 PM. Reservations required. $15 ($10, 12 & under). roswellghosttour.com.
SCOTT ANTIQUE MARKETS WINTER SHOWS
Dec. 9-11 The world’s largest series of indoor antique shows at the Atlanta Expo Center, 3650 Jonesboro Road, SE. 9 AM-6 PM Fri.-Sat., 10 AM-4 PM Sun. 404/361-2000. scottantiquemarket.com.
SEASON OF MAGIC IN PIEDMONT PARK
Through Jan. 1 Celebrate the season at Atlanta’s historic Piedmont Park, beautifully illuminated with holiday lights at this inaugural event of the Piedmont Park Conservancy, featuring horse-drawn carriage rides, carousel rides, caroling, Legacy Fountain light show, weekly Jingle Mingle holiday socials and family-friendly arts and crafts. piedmontpark.org.
SNOW MOUNTAIN
Through Feb. 20 (select dates) Snow Mountain returns to Stone Mountain Park with Atlanta’s only snow-covered 400-foot tubing hill, featuring the 10-lane Tube Runners for single riders and three-lane Avalanche Alley for multiple riders, plus Snow Zone for younger kids to tube, make snowmen and take aim at the snowball shooting gallery. snowmountainpark.com.
SOUTHERN TRILOGY CANDLELIGHT TOUR
Dec. 10 Visit the magnificent Barrington Hall, Bulloch Hall and Smith Plantation, from 5-9 PM, in candlelight, with festive decor, kids’ activities, treats and entertainment. $20 ($10 children). 678/639-7500. southerntrilogy.com.
SPOTLIGHT ON ART
One of the largest, most diverse art exhibitions and sales in the Southeast, hosted by Trinity School for 31 years, with original works by 350 artists. spotlightonart.com. 404/231-8119.
Dec. 1-Jan. 31 Spotlight on Art Saks Gallery at Saks Fifth Avenue in Phipps Plaza.
SPRUILL GALLERY HOLIDAY ARTISTS MARKET
Through Dec. 24 Unique show featuring handcrafted items by artisans from around the Southeast at the Spruill Gallery, 4681 Ashford Dunwoody Road. Market hours: 10 AM-6 PM Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 PM Sun. Family Day Saturday, noon-4 PM Dec. 3. Shop Till You Drop, 6-9 PM Dec. 8. Jewelry Trunk Show, 11 AM-2 PM Dec. 17. 770/394-4019. spruillarts.org.
STONE MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS
Through Jan. 2 (select nights) A winter wonderland with two million lights, holiday parade, live shows, strolling carolers, Santa and the Snow Angel, Polar Express 4D movie, sing-a-long train and nightly snowfall at St. Mtn. Park. Adventure pass, plus park entry fee. 770/498-5690. stonemountainpark.com.
VININGS TREE LIGHTING
Dec. 1 Annual Christmas tree lighting at Vinings Jubilee, 4300 Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta, with holiday music, pony and train rides, Santa photos and more. viningsjubilee.com.
VIRGINIA-HIGHLAND TOUR OF HOMES
Dec. 10-11 Home tour and food tasting event showcasing the beautiful homes of this vibrant, eclectic community, plus tastings by local restaurants. Tours run 10 AM-4 PM Sat., 12-4 PM Sun. Tastings: 12-4 PM daily. $30 ($25 advance). vahitourofhomes.org.
JANUARY
ATLANTA BOAT SHOW
Jan. 12-15 Georgia’s largest boating event features hundreds of boats, marine accessories and electronics, boating and fishing seminars, trout pond and more at the Ga. World Congress Center, 285 Andrew Young International Blvd., NW, Hall C, Atlanta. $9 (free, 15 & under). 954/441-3227. AtlantaBoatShow.com.
ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN
Through Jan. 7 Garden Lights, Holiday Nights, a showcase of enormous botanical-inspired light displays throughout the grounds. 5-10 PM (except. Dec. 24 & 31).
1345 Piedmont Ave. NE. atlantabotanicalgarden.org. 404/876-5859.
ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER
Jan. 22 Three Kings Day, Dia de Reyes, noon-5 PM. Hispanic holiday festival, held in collaboration with the Mexican Consulate and the Instituto de Mexico, with storytelling, music, live performances, food and fun. Free (does not include museum admission). 130 West Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta. 404/814-4000. atlantahistorycenter.com.
CATHEDRAL ANTIQUES SHOW & TOUR OF HOMES
Jan. 29 Visit several beautifully designed homes on a self-guided tour through some of Atlanta’s most distinctive neighborhoods. $30 ($25 adv).
Jan. 29 Tour the Inspiration House, showcasing the creative talents of up-and-coming designers. Located on grounds of Cathedral of St. Philip. Premier, Jan. 28.
cathedralantiques.org. 404/365-1107.
CAVALIA “ODYSSEO”
Through Jan. 8 A procession of wonders unfolds under the white Big Top in downtown Atlanta with a dazzling equestrian show that features 69 horses and 50 acrobats, dancers, riders and musicians, whose performances are beautifully orchestrated in a dream-like virtual setting with live music. cavalia.net.
CHATTAHOOCHEE NATURE CENTER
Jan. 2-4 Winter Break Camp – discover what plants and animals do to stay warm. Kindergarten-7th grade.
Jan. 2-5 1:30-3 PM. 2012 is the Year of the Bat.Explore bat ecosystems and habitats. Learn about endangered species and how to classify these fascinating winged mammals. Ages 5-12.
Jan. 2-6 11 AM-12 PM daily. Help reuse and recycle items to make fun, take-home projects. Different crafts each day in the Nature Exchange of the Discovery Center. Ages 4 and up.
Jan. 14 7-9 PM. Star Filled Night Hike.
9135 Willeo Road. For more information, call 770/992-2055.
CHRISTMAS IN ROSWELL
Jan. 1 A flurry of holiday festivities, from historic tours to music, dance and theatrical performances. 770/641-3950. visitroswellga.com.
FERNBANK MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
Through Jan. 1 “Darwin,” features live animals, amazing fossils and an array of scientific tools used by one of the world’s most intriguing scientists.
Through Jan. 8 Winter Wonderland: Celebrations & Traditions Around the World, a festive exhibition and programming series featuring decorated trees, dance groups, musical acts, craft demonstrations and storytelling.
767 Clifton Road. 404/929-6300. fernbankmuseum.org.
GEORGIA BRIDAL SHOW
Jan. 22 Brides-to-be can find everything needed to create a dream wedding, with opportunities to see photographers’ pictures, taste cake and food samples from caterers, watch a fashion show, plan a honeymoon and more at Cobb Galleria Centre, 2 Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. Noon-5 PM. $10. eliteevents.com.
IMAGINE IT! CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ATLANTA
Through Jan. 22 “Once Upon a Time...Exploring the World of Fairy Tales.” Venture into an enchanted storybook kingdom, from an African jungle to a giant’s castle. Open daily. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr., NW. 404/659-KIDS. childrensmuseumatlanta.org.
IMAX® THEATRE AT FERNBANK MUSEUM
Through Jan. 1 “Hubble.” Journey through distant galleries and marvel at Hubble’s legacy.
Through Jan. 1 “Galapagos.” Explore the biological diversity and unique geologic history of the Galapagos archipelago.
On-going Martinis & IMAX, 6:30-11 PM Fridays, mix of culture and cocktails, with live music and DJ. 404/929-6400.
$13 ($11, ages 3-12). 767 Clifton Road. 404/929-6300. fernbankmuseum.org.
KIDS ENABLED RESOURCE FAIR 2012
Jan. 29 2-5 PM. For parents and caregivers of children with learning and developmental differences, the fair
is an interactive resource offering information on schools, support groups/organization,
tutors, parks and recreation/camps, therapists, medical professionals, nutritionists and more.
Oak Grove UMC Fellowship Hall in Decatur. kidsenabled.org.
MACY’S PINK PIG TRAIN
Through Jan. 1 Ride Priscilla the Pink Pig as she makes tracks for the 58th season through a life-sized storybook beneath the 1950s-themed Pink Pig Tent on the upper-level parking deck at Lenox Square Mall, Atlanta. $3 per ride. Open daily (except Dec. 25).Benefits Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. macys.com/believe.
MAGICAL NIGHTS OF LIGHTS
Through Jan. 1 5-10 PM. Enjoy a 7-mile drive-through tour of animated holiday light displays at Lake Lanier Island Resort, plus a Holiday Village with carnival rides and games, pony rides and sweet treats, and holiday shopping and Santa visits at Santa’s Workshop. lakelanierislands.com.
ROSWELL GHOST TOUR
Ongoing Learn about the unique history and stories of paranormal activity through experienced paranormal investigators on this walking tour. 8 PM. Reservations required. $15 ($10, 12 & under). roswellghosttour.com.
SCOTT ANTIQUE MARKETS WINTER SHOWS
Jan. 13-15 The world’s largest series of indoor antique shows at the Atlanta Expo Center, 3650 Jonesboro Road, SE. 9 AM-6 PM Fri.-Sat., 10 AM-4 PM Sun. 404/361-2000. scottantiquemarket.com.
SEASON OF MAGIC IN PIEDMONT PARK
Through Jan. 1 Celebrate the season at Atlanta’s historic Piedmont Park, beautifully illuminated with holiday lights at this inaugural event of the Piedmont Park Conservancy, featuring horse-drawn carriage rides, carousel rides, caroling, Legacy Fountain light show, weekly Jingle Mingle holiday socials and family-friendly arts and crafts. piedmontpark.org.
SNOW MOUNTAIN
Through Feb. 20 (select dates) Snow Mountain returns to Stone Mountain Park with Atlanta’s only snow-covered 400-foot tubing hill, featuring the 10-lane Tube Runners for single riders and three-lane Avalanche Alley for multiple riders, plus Snow Zone for younger kids to tube, make snowmen and take aim at the snowball shooting gallery. snowmountainpark.com.
SPOTLIGHT ON ART
One of the largest, most diverse art exhibitions and sales in the Southeast, hosted by Trinity School for 31 years, with original works by 350 artists. spotlightonart.com. 404/231-8119.
Through Jan. 31 Spotlight on Art Saks Gallery at Saks Fifth Avenue in Phipps Plaza.
Jan. 31 Opening Night
STONE MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS
Through Jan. 2 (select nights) A winter wonderland with two million lights, holiday parade, live shows, strolling carolers, Santa and the Snow Angel, Polar Express 4D movie, sing-a-long train and nightly snowfall at St. Mtn. Park. Adventure pass, plus park entry fee. 770/498-5690. stonemountainpark.com.
FEBRUARY
ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN
Feb. 4-April 15 "Orchid Daze 2012," annual orchid celebration highlights soaring hanging gardens dripping with lush, fragrant beauty.
Feb. 25 8 AM-3:30 PM. "The Inspired Gardener: A Symposium and Silent Auction," this informative event features nationally renowned experts presenting topics that include four-season garden design, garden renovation, community gardening, gardening with native plants; and easy-to-grow fruits. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE. atlantabotanicalgarden.org. 404/876-5859.
ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER
Feb. 11 Dancing Through Time: Apollo, 11 AM-4 PM, family program presents history exploration through music and dance. 130 West Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta. 404/814-4000. atlantahistorycenter.com.
ATLANTA JEWISH FILM FEST
Feb. 8-29 12th annual festival showcases an international collection of narrative and documentary films that explore Jewish life, culture and history, with screenings at several area venues. ajff.org. 404/806-9913. southerntrilogy.com.
BIG-TO-DO
Feb. 12 3-6 PM. For the first time, the Big-To-Do, a family event benefiting Visiting Nurse Health System's Children's Program, takes place at Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park. The event offers families an exciting snow adventure and SnoFire Point is the place to warm up with s'mores; hot snacks are offered indoors. Attendees can enjoy Snow Mountain all day, plus two hours of private use of the snow tubing slopes from 3-6 PM. Individual tickets are $60 and include free parking and a memorable gift for kids. Children under 36 inches tall are free. Tickets are available at vnhs.org.
CATHEDRAL ANTIQUES SHOW & TOUR OF HOMES
Feb. 2-5, Feb 9-11 Tour the Inspiration House, showcasing the creative talents of up-and-coming designers. Located on grounds of Cathedral of St. Philip. Premier, Jan. 28.
Feb. 2-4 Atlanta’s oldest and most prestigious antiques show features exquisite 18th, 19th and early 20th century antiques (from rugs and furniture to art, porcelain and silver) at the Cathedral of St. Philip, 2744 Peachtree Road, Atlanta. Preview Party, Feb. 1. cathedralantiques.org. 404/365-1107.
NORTH ATLANTA HOME SHOW
Feb. 10-12 Nearly 200 experts in the landscaping and home remodeling industries will showcase the latest services and products, plus radio broadcasts and speakers. Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Duluth. $7 ($6 seniors; free, 12 and under). atlantahomeshow.com.
PARENTS PALOOZA
Feb. 26, 27 Entertaining and educational event for the family with exhibitors, activities, performers, speakers, prizes and more at Cobb Galleria Centre, Halls A & B, Two Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta. 10 AM-6 PM Sat., 11 AM-5 PM Sun. $12 ($10 adv.), $6 ages 5-18 ($5 adv.), free under 5. ParentsPalooza.com.
RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY CIRCUS
Feb. 15-20, 23-26 “Fully Charged” takes circus entertainment to a whole new level with breathtaking dare-devilry and superhuman stunts. Shows Feb. 15-20 at Philips Arena in Atlanta and Feb. 23-26 at the Gwinnett Arena in Duluth. ringling.com. ticketmaster.com.
ROSWELL GHOST TOUR
Ongoing Learn about the unique history and stories of paranormal activity through experienced paranormal investigators on this walking tour. 8 PM. Reservations required. $15 ($10, 12 & under). roswellghosttour.com.
SCOTT ANTIQUE MARKETS WINTER SHOWS
Feb. 10-12 The world’s largest series of indoor antique shows at the Atlanta Expo Center, 3650 Jonesboro Road, SE. 9 AM-6 PM Fri.-Sat., 10 AM-4 PM Sun. 404/361-2000. scottantiquemarket.com.
SNOW MOUNTAIN
Through Feb. 20 (select dates) Snow Mountain returns to Stone Mountain Park with Atlanta’s only snow-covered 400-foot tubing hill, featuring the 10-lane Tube Runners for single riders and three-lane Avalanche Alley for multiple riders, plus Snow Zone for younger kids to tube, make snowmen and take aim at the snowball shooting gallery. snowmountainpark.com.
SPOTLIGHT ON ART
One of the largest, most diverse art exhibitions and sales in the Southeast, hosted by Trinity School for 31 years, with original works by 350 artists. spotlightonart.com. 404/231-8119.
Feb. 4 Cocktails & Canvases
Feb. 6-11 Artists Market at Trinity School, 4301 Northside Pkwy. Free parking and admission.
Feb. 18 Spotlight Gala Auction, InterContinental Buckhead.