Don’t Get Left Home Alone in Alpharetta: 5 Festive Activities for the Holidays

Getting into the holiday spirit is easy in Alpharetta! If you’re already anticipating the sound of sleigh bells, the sparkle of tinsel, the taste of hot cocoa and the excitement of gathering with your family for the holidays, then we have news for you: Alpharetta holiday happenings are here! Just as Kevin McCallister made the most of his unexpected solo adventure, you won’t want to miss the fun and festivities that await. Whether you’re caught up in the hustle and bustle of family plans, or getting into mischief of your own, this city’s variety of holiday adventures will ensure you won’t be left feeling home alone. 

Here’s five festive activities for fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories!

1. Season of Celebration Tree Lighting, November 23, 2024
   From 5:00 – 9:00 PM, gather with friends and family around the gorgeous 50-foot tree on the Town Green at Alpharetta City Center to enjoy all the fun of the holidays including an appearance from Santa, and of course, the lighting of the magnificent tree. While downtown, find unique gifts for family and friends and enjoy awesome dining – it may not be Little Nero’s Pizza, but there’s an Alpharetta eatery to satisfy any cuisine craving!

2. Lighting of Avalon, November 24, 2024
From 2:00 – 7:30 PM, it’s time for festive music and free activities for the whole family at Avalon! Channel your inner Kevin McCallister headed to Duncan’s Toy Chest in Home Alone 2 (sans The Wet Bandits), and stroll down the Boulevard for face painting, balloon art, photo booth fun and more. Celebrate the official opening of Avalon on Ice, open to Avalon guests through January 20, 2025. You’ll feel just like Kevin at Rockefeller Center! Listen to live holiday performances on the big stage and jam out until Santa comes on stage to light the 40-foot Christmas tree with holiday cheer!

3. The Nutcracker presented by Metropolitan Ballet Theatre, December 13-15, 2024
Enjoy a weekend at the ballet and take in the Christmas classic of The Nutcracker! Join the Alpharetta community in celebrating the Metropolitan Ballet Theatre’s 23rd year of this holiday classic. The festive atmosphere and stunning visuals will have you feeling the same excitement as Kevin did when he experienced the joy of the holiday season—minus the family chaos and fending off burglars, of course! Treat yourself to a timeless experience that captures the heartwarming magic of the holiday spirit.

4. Snow Day at Alpharetta City Center, December 14, 2024
Visit the Town Green in downtown Alpharetta to enjoy Alpharetta’s very own winter wonderland! While reveling in the snow and perfecting those snow angels, make memories with live music, craft-making stations, and plenty of Insta-worthy photo ops. If Kevin were at this event with his toboggan, we know he would be ready for the sledding of a lifetime (you might even spot The Pigeon Lady)!

5. Meet Jolly St. Nick Himself, Nov. 25- Dec. 23, 2024
Make magical memories at Free Photos with Santa at the Alpharetta Welcome Center December 7 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, Story Time with Santa at Avalon, available at select dates and times from November 25 through December 23 or enjoy Breakfast with Santa at Avalon on December 7 at Chick Fil A and December 8 at Oak Steakhouse. Just as Kevin had a heartfelt moment with Santa, this is the perfect time for kiddos to let Santa know what’s on their Christmas wish list and be reminded that it’s important to stay on the nice list!

The holiday season is the perfect time to experience Alpharetta and discover new adventures, some good-hearted mischief, and celebrations – Kevin would know all about that! For a full listing of exciting holiday events, check out our calendar of events HERE. Just as Kevin found his own paradise at the Plaza after a day of exploring, you can relax in comfort and style at one of Alpharetta’s 30 upscale, modern hotels. After all, you deserve a stay that’s anything but Home Alone!