Blue Ridge, Georgia Christmas Guide
There's nothing like celebrating a genuine small town Appalachian Christmas and New Year in the North Georgia Mountains. There really is no better time of year for a getaway to the mountain towns of Ellijay and Blue Ridge GA than the holiday season. With events and activities for the whole family, everyone in your party will be in the Christmas spirit from the moment you arrive. Escape the hustle and bustle of the season and enjoy a more conventional holiday in your own mountain cabin rental. Embrace southern hospitality and a new family holiday tradition, less than two hours drive from the heart of Atlanta!
Light up Blue Ridge
Photo Credit: cassidy_grahamm via Instagram
Light up Blue Ridge kicks off the holiday season over two days. Blue Friday, November 27, includes downtown merchants’ store discounts, plenty of Christmas holiday cheer, food, refreshments, and street entertainment.
Light Up Blue Ridge day, November 28, extends the fun with Christmas cheer, live entertainment, food vendors, and of course, children will be able to visit Santa Claus in the gazebo located in the park. Christmas lights and decorations are available for viewing throughout the holiday season.
Gingerbread Village will be open to the public from November 27th to December 13th.
DATES AND TIMES: November 27-28; 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM
LOCATION: Downtown Blue Ridge
Downtown Blue Ridge City Park
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513
Website: https://lightupblueridge.info
Gingerbread Village
Photo Credit: visitblueridgega via Instagram
The Blue Ridge Business Association is hosting its 8th Annual Gingerbread Contest. You are welcome to come and check out this amazing Gingerbread Village, and for those with a creative flair, the contest is open to anyone that wants to participate. Entries will be displayed publicly at The Blue Ridge Arts Center from November 27th - December 13th. If you are interested in submitting an entry, make sure you check out the construction guidelines and fill out your entry form on time.
DATES: November 17 - December 13
LOCATION: Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association
420 West Main Street
Website: https://lightupblueridge.info/2020-gingerbread-house-contest/
INOLA Holiday Festival and Ice Skating
Photo Credit: inolablueridge via Instagram
Nothing says winter quite like strapping on some ice skates. The INOLA Holiday Festival offers a variety of changing events all centered around the ice skating rink. The festival will kick off on November 27th with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony and fireworks, and the festivities will continue through January 5th.
PRICING: $15 per person; Fannin County Resident (with proof of residency) $10 Monday – Thursday; Military: $10 Monday – Thursday; Contact INOLA Blue Ridge for pricing on special events.
DATES AND TIMES: November 27 - January 5; 12:00 Noon - 10:00 PM (Check for special holiday hours)
LOCATION: INOLA Blue Ridge
9265 Blue Ridge Drive
Blue Ridge, GA 30513
Website: https://inolablueridge.com/event/inola-holiday-festival/
Santa Express ~ Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Photo Credit: blueridgescenicrailway via Instagram
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway adds some special Christmas magic with the Santa Express. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in their special Christmas caboose and enjoy a one- hour train ride with Christmas sing-a-longs and storytelling. Every child will receive a traditional Blue Ridge Scenic Railway sleigh bell and a candy cane. Some COVID-19 restrictions are in place, so please check the website for more details.
PRICING: 0-23 months - FREE; 2-12 years - $35.00; 13+ - $52.00
DATES AND TIMES: November 27 - December 3; 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
LOCATION: Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
241 Depot Street
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513
Website: https://brscenic.com/tickets/
Holidaze Celebration Markets
Photo Credit: cohuttacountrystore via Instagram
Don't miss the First Annual Holidaze Celebration Markets located at the North GA Farmers Market. This special holiday themed farmers market includes vendors from regional farms, local artisans, and chefs. Live music and Christmas carols on the half-hour from 10 to 1, cooking demos, and door prizes will be held throughout the day.
DATES AND TIMES: December 12 - 27 - Saturdays and Sundays only; 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
LOCATION: Cohutta Country Store
83 Dunbarton Farm
Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513