Top 10 Holiday Events in Atlanta

Even though Atlanta is a modern city, there still is a reverence for longtime traditions, especially during the holidays. Beginning with Thanksgiving, and continuing through Christmas and New Year's Eve, Atlantans take part in annual rituals marking the special time of year with family and friends. Here are the top 10 holiday traditions that take place in the city of Atlanta…

1. Lighting of the Great Tree at Macy's in Lenox Square Mall - Before you get excited about shopping the day after Thanksgiving, make a stop at Lenox Square Mall on Thanksgiving night to see the annual lighting of the tree. This year is the first year it will be lit on top of Macy's instead of Rich's.

2. Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Children's Christmas Parade - This is a holiday tradition that the kids will love. Floats, balloons, characters, and Saint Nick himself will be on display in downtown Atlanta..

3. Lake Lanier's Magical Nights of Lights - Miles and miles of illuminated holiday decorations await those that drive through this unique exhibit at the popular metro Atlanta resort. At the end of the trail awaits Santa's Village, where the whole family can roast marshmallows, shop for holiday goodies, and perhaps, even catch a glimpse of Santa Claus preparing for Christmas

4. Festival of Tress - Here you will be able to find tons and tons of trees that are decorated any way you can think of. This event takes place at the Georgia World Congress Center.

5. Centennial Olympic Park Holiday in Lights - The park located in the middle of downtown Atlanta, lights up during the holiday season and is a spectacle that is a must see this holiday season. Bring the ice skates as well, because one of the most popular attractions is the outdoor ice skating rink.

6. Christmas House - Each year the Alliance Theatre chooses a house to decorate for the holiday season. Take a tour of the massive estate and make a stop at the gift store for some great holiday gifts.

7. A Christmas Carol at the Alliance Theatre - Many of Atlanta's homegrown actors will be on display in the annual production of the holiday classic "A Christmas Carol."