Dahlonega Old Fashioned Christmas 2024: Complete Guide to Events, Dates & Times

by Gold Peach Realty

Your Ultimate Guide to Christmas Events in Dahlonega, GA 2024

Dahlonega, Georgia, transforms into a magical holiday destination every year with its highly anticipated "Old Fashioned Christmas" celebration. Whether you're a local or planning a festive getaway, our comprehensive guide includes every event, activity, and thing to do this holiday season in Dahlonega. From parades to wine tastings, we've got it all covered—complete with dates, locations, and detailed information.

Lighting of the Square
Carriage Rides
Visit with Santa
Festival of Trees
Christmas Parade
Christmas Market on Candy Cane Lane
Live Performances at the Holly Theater
Extended Shopping Hours
Holiday Wine Tastings
Christmas Tea
Art Markets and Open Houses
Food Trucks and Festive Treats

1. Lighting of the Square

Date & Time: November 29, 2024, at 6:00 PM
Location: Historic Downtown Dahlonega Square
Details: Witness the breathtaking illumination of Dahlonega's historic square and Christmas tree. This kickoff event features live music and festive decor that sets the stage for the holiday season. Perfect for families and photo ops!

2. Carriage Rides

Dates: November 29, 2024, and select evenings through December
Location: Depart from Visitor Center, 13 South Park Street, Dahlonega, GA 30533
Details: Experience the charm of Dahlonega with horse-drawn carriage rides through the festively lit streets. Check the calendar for availability and pricing.

3. Visit with Santa

Dates & Times:
- Fridays: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Saturdays: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Sundays: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (November 29 – December 22, 2024)
Location: Christmas Tree in front of Visitor Center
Details: Let your kids meet Santa, share their Christmas wishes, and drop letters in the special North Pole mailbox.

4. Festival of Trees

Dates: November 29 – December 31, 2024
Location: Various locations throughout Downtown Dahlonega
Details: Enjoy a walking tour of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each designed by local businesses and organizations.

5. Christmas Parade

Date & Time: December 14, 2024, at 12:00 PM
Location: Parade route through Downtown Dahlonega
Details: Don’t miss Dahlonega’s famous Christmas Parade featuring floats, bands, and a visit from Santa Claus himself.

6. Christmas Market on Candy Cane Lane

Dates: December 6-7 and December 13-14, 2024
- Fridays and Saturdays: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Hancock Park, 239 Hancock Park Pavilion, Dahlonega, GA 30533
Details: Browse handmade gifts, themed baskets, and delicious treats at this charming outdoor market.

7. Live Performances at the Holly Theater

Dates:
- December 5-7, 12-14, and 19-21, 2024
- Fridays & Saturdays: 8:00 PM | Sundays: 2:00 PM
Location: Holly Theater, 69 West Main Street, Dahlonega, GA 30533
Details: Enjoy holiday-themed plays and musicals perfect for the whole family.

8. Extended Shopping Hours

Dates: Throughout the holiday season
Location: Downtown Dahlonega Shops
Details: Find one-of-a-kind gifts during extended shopping hours in Dahlonega’s locally-owned stores.

9. Holiday Wine Tastings

Dates: Various dates in December
Locations:
- Montaluce Winery & Restaurant, 501 Hightower Church Road, Dahlonega, GA 30533
- Wolf Mountain Vineyards, 180 Wolf Mountain Trail, Dahlonega, GA 30533
- Frogtown Cellars, 700 Ridge Point Drive, Dahlonega, GA 30533
Details: Indulge in holiday-themed wine tastings. Check with wineries for schedules.

10. Christmas Tea

Dates: December 7, 14, 21, 2024 (Saturdays at 2:00 PM)
Location: Waffles & Tea Room,
Details: Reservations required for this cozy holiday tea experience featuring pastries, sandwiches, and fine teas.

11. Art Markets and Open Houses

Dates: December 6-7 and December 13-14, 2024
Location: Chestatee Artists Gallery, 11 South Grove Street, Dahlonega, GA 30533
Details: Support local artists and find unique handmade holiday gifts.

12. Food Trucks and Festive Treats

Dates: Throughout December
Location: Historic Downtown Dahlonega
Details: Enjoy seasonal eats from local food trucks and cafes as you stroll through the festive streets.

20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dahlonega's Old Fashioned Christmas 2024

1. What is Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas?

Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas is an annual holiday celebration featuring events like the Lighting of the Square, carriage rides, a Christmas parade, festive markets, live performances, and more in the charming historic town of Dahlonega, Georgia.

2. When does the Lighting of the Square take place?

The Lighting of the Square will take place on November 29, 2024, at 6:00 PM, in historic downtown Dahlonega.

3. Are the events free?

Most events are free, such as the Lighting of the Square, the Festival of Trees, and the Christmas Parade. However, activities like carriage rides and holiday tea may have a fee.

4. Where can I park for Christmas events?

Public parking is available near the Visitor Center and Hancock Park. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends and during popular events like the parade.

5. Are pets allowed at Dahlonega’s holiday events?

Pets are welcome at outdoor events like the parade and carriage rides, but they may not be permitted in indoor venues.

6. How much are carriage rides in Dahlonega?

Carriage ride prices vary depending on the provider. Check with the Visitor Center for updated pricing and scheduling.

7. What time does the Christmas Parade start?

The Christmas Parade starts at 12:00 PM on December 14, 2024. Arrive early to find a good viewing spot.

8. Where can I meet Santa in Dahlonega?

Santa will be at the Christmas Tree in front of the Visitor Center from November 29 to December 22, 2024. Santa’s hours are Fridays (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM), Saturdays (12:00 PM – 6:00 PM), and Sundays (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM).

9. Are there any family-friendly activities?

Yes! Families can enjoy carriage rides, visits with Santa, the Festival of Trees, the Christmas Parade, and live performances at the Holly Theater.

10. Is there snow during Dahlonega’s Christmas events?

While natural snowfall is rare, Dahlonega’s festive decorations and atmosphere create a magical holiday vibe regardless of the weather.

11. What are the dates for the Christmas Market on Candy Cane Lane?

The Christmas Market on Candy Cane Lane will be held on December 6-7 and December 13-14, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

12. Can I shop for unique holiday gifts in Dahlonega?

Yes! Downtown Dahlonega features extended shopping hours throughout the season, along with art markets and the Christmas Market, offering unique handmade gifts.

13. What wineries participate in the holiday wine tastings?

Popular wineries include:

Montaluce Winery & Restaurant
Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery
Frogtown Cellars
Contact them directly for schedules and reservations.

14. What is the Festival of Trees?

The Festival of Trees is a month-long display of beautifully decorated Christmas trees sponsored by local businesses, located throughout downtown Dahlonega from November 29 to December 31, 2024.

15. Are there any live holiday performances?

Yes, the Holly Theater hosts holiday-themed plays and musicals throughout December. Performances occur on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

16. Where can I have holiday tea in Dahlonega?

Holiday tea is served on December 7, 14, and 21, 2024, at Waffles & Tea Room, 90 Public Square North, Dahlonega, GA. Reservations are recommended.

17. Are the events accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, most events in Dahlonega are accessible, and accommodations are made for visitors with disabilities. Contact event organizers for specific details.

18. Are food trucks available during the events?

Yes! Food trucks offering seasonal treats, hot cocoa, and holiday snacks will be present at several events, especially during the parade and markets.

19. Can I take photos at the events?

Absolutely! The festive decorations and activities provide perfect photo opportunities. Don’t forget to use hashtags like #DahlonegaChristmas when sharing on social media.

20. How can I find out more about Dahlonega’s Christmas events?

Visit the official event page on dahlonegachristmas.com or contact the Dahlonega Visitor Center at 13 South Park Street, Dahlonega, GA 30533 for more details.

Why Visit Dahlonega for Christmas?

Dahlonega's Old Fashioned Christmas is a must-visit holiday destination offering magical experiences for all ages. The town’s historic charm, coupled with festive events, makes it the perfect getaway for families, couples, and holiday lovers.

Plan Your Holiday Visit

Discover more about Christmas in Dahlonega by visiting Gold Peach Realty for travel tips and local recommendations. Don’t forget to explore homes for sale in Dahlonega if you’re considering making this magical town your permanent holiday haven.

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Event	Date(s)	Time	Location	Description
Lighting of the Square	November 29, 2024	6:00 PM	Historic Downtown Dahlonega	A grand illumination of the square with live music and festive lights.
Carriage Rides	Select evenings starting Nov 29	Varies	Visitor Center, Dahlonega	Horse-drawn rides through festively lit streets.
Visit with Santa	Nov 29–Dec 22 (Fri–Sun)	Fri: 5-7 PM, Sat/Sun: Varies	By the Visitor Center	Meet Santa and drop letters in the North Pole mailbox.
Festival of Trees	Nov 29–Dec 31	All Day	Downtown Dahlonega	Walk through beautifully decorated Christmas trees sponsored by local businesses.
Christmas Parade	December 14, 2024	12:00 PM	Downtown Parade Route	Floats, bands, and Santa Claus in a vibrant holiday parade.