Dahlonega Christmas

Experience “the most wonderful time of the year” in Dahlonega! The historic square, shops, restaurants, and inns all shine in their holiday finest.

Join us in Dahlonega for our month-long celebration held the day after Thanksgiving through mid-January, set in motion with the Lighting of the Square. A real hometown parade occurs Saturday the 9th, 2023.

Plenty of other festive holiday events continue almost daily throughout December until after New Year's with caroling, entertainment, wine sampling, and live theater Christmas events. There are many charming options for lodging in the area, from traditional suites to unique Bed and Breakfasts, short-term rentals, resorts, cabins, and more. Peaceful and comfortable stays are just a click away.  Be sure to check out what is happening in the local restaurants, tasting rooms, wineries, shops, and attractions!

The Lighting of the Square

Our town is truly a special place for the holidays, starting with one lighting to kicking off our Dahlonega Christmas, the Historic Public Square will be lit with shimmering white lights the day after Thanksgiving. Horse-drawn carriage rides contribute a rhythmic “clip-clop” to the downtown buzz at night starting on Black Friday after the Lighting of the Square. Radford Windham will perform everyone's favorite Christmas songs in front of the visitor center starting at 5:30 pm, on November 24th. This year the Tree lighting ceremony will occur at 6 PM in front of the Visitor Center!

Santa’s Coming To Town

You can also spot Santa at the Dahlonega Christmas Parade, being held in the historic district this year on Saturday, December 10th. For a full rundown of holiday events and times, be sure to visit www.dahlonegachristmas.com. Has your child been extra good this year? Be sure they bring their letter telling Santa all about it to the Visitors Center to be placed in our special mailbox for delivery to the North Pole! Beginning 11/24/21 - through 12/18/21 Santa will be on the square by the Christmas Tree in front of the Visitor Center. Fridays from 5:00-7:00 pm, Saturdays 12:00-6:00 pm, Sundays 1:00-5:00 pm. On 12/9/21 Santa will have a break to be in the parade! 

For a full run-down of holiday events, including Old Fashioned Christmas, click here.