ATLANTA — Thanksgiving weekend is here, and Atlanta has plenty of events to keep you entertained while you fill up on good food.
This weekend offers something for everyone, whether you're looking to embrace holiday traditions, support local businesses, or find fun ways to spend time with family and friends.
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
Date and Location:
Thursday, Nov. 28, 8:30 a.m.
New York City, NY (live broadcast on NBC or Peacock)
Details:
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a beloved holiday tradition, and this year, Georgia is proudly represented by the Jonesboro High School Majestic Marching Cardinals. Watch dazzling floats, massive balloons, and live performances from stars like Jennifer Hudson and Billy Porter. Grab a seat on the couch, or stream the festivities on Peacock for a front-row view.
Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon
Date and Location:
Thursday, Nov. 28, 7:30 a.m.
Center Parc Stadium, 755 Hank Aaron Dr. SE, Atlanta, GA
Details:
Atlanta’s biggest Thanksgiving Day tradition brings runners, walkers, and spectators together. Choose between a half marathon, 5K, Mile, or Dash. Participants enjoy post-race pie, finisher medals, and festive costumes. The course winds through iconic neighborhoods like Inman Park and Piedmont Park. Spectators can cheer from spots like Centennial Olympic Park.
MARTA is recommended for travel due to road closures.
Dance at Johnny's Hideaway
Date and Location:
Thursday, Nov. 28, 8 p.m.–3 a.m.
Johnny's Hideaway, 3771 Roswell Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA
Details:
Known as Atlanta’s nightlife hotspot, Johnny’s Hideaway is the perfect post-dinner escape. Dance to a mix of hits from the 1950s through today on a lively dance floor. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere, a full bar, and a spirited crowd ready to celebrate the holiday.
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights
Date and Location:
Nov. 21–Jan. 12
Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA
Details:
Kick off the holiday season with this enchanting light show in the heart of Midtown. Explore beautifully lit garden trails, dazzling orbs, and a canopy of lights synchronized to festive music. Don’t miss the iconic “Orchestral Orbs” display in the Great Lawn. Advance tickets are required.
Atlanta Christkindl Market
Date and Location:
Nov. 22–Dec. 24
Buckhead Village, 259 Buckhead Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA
Details:
Step into a charming European-style holiday market offering authentic German treats like bratwurst, mulled wine, and gingerbread. Shop handcrafted ornaments and unique gifts while enjoying festive entertainment in a cozy holiday setting.
Georgia Festival of Trees
Date and Location:
Nov. 23–Dec. 1
Gas South Convention Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth, GA
Details:
Celebrate the spirit of giving with a stunning display of decorated Christmas trees, live performances, and family-friendly activities. Proceeds from the festival benefit local charities, making this event a meaningful way to embrace the holiday season.
Celebration at the Station
Date and Location:
Nov. 23–Dec. 25, 5–9 p.m.
Atlantic Station, 245 18th St. NW, Atlanta, GA
Details:
Atlantic Station transforms into a winter wonderland with synchronized holiday lights, snow effects, and a giant Christmas tree. Stroll through the festive atmosphere and enjoy unique photo opportunities, live music, and pop-up shops.
Friendsgiving at Top Dawg Tavern
Date and Location:
Wednesday, Nov. 27, 5 p.m.–midnight
Top Dawg Tavern, 656 Exchange Circle, Bethlehem, GA
Details:
Gather with friends before the big day at this cozy tavern. Enjoy live music, special $9 Tavern Burgers, and a Cranberry Whiskey Sour. Bring a toy to donate to Toys for Tots and help brighten a child’s holiday.
Fall Safari Camp at Zoo Atlanta
Date and Location:
Nov. 26–27, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Zoo Atlanta, 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta, GA
Details:
Designed for kids aged 5–11, this two-day camp offers animal encounters, science experiments, and environmental games. It’s the perfect way to keep young minds active and curious during the Thanksgiving break.
Watch “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving”
Date and Location:
Available on Apple TV+
Free Nov. 23–24
Details:
Enjoy the timeless Peanuts special with family and friends. Subscribers can stream the classic anytime, while nonsubscribers can take advantage of a free viewing window. Physical copies are also available for purchase.
Small Business Saturday
Date and Location:
Saturday, Nov. 30
Various locations in Atlanta
Details:
Support Atlanta’s local businesses during Small Business Saturday. From charming boutiques to local artisans, this event encourages shoppers to give back to their communities while finding unique holiday gifts.