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Your Ultimate Guide to Christmas Events in Dahlonega, GA 2026

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.

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Table of Contents

1. Lighting of the Square
2. Carriage Rides
3. Visit with Santa
4. Festival of Trees
5. Christmas Parade
6. Christmas Market on Candy Cane Lane
7. Live Performances at the Holly Theater
8. Extended Shopping Hours
9. Holiday Wine Tastings
10. Christmas Tea
11. Art Markets and Open Houses
12. Food Trucks and Festive Treats

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1. Lighting of the Square

• Date & Time: Friday, November 27, 2026. Santa lights the Square and Hancock Park at 6:00 PM (the Square is closed to traffic from 3:00 to 8:00 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!

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2. Carriage Rides

• Dates: Select evenings during the holiday season. Check the official schedule closer to the season for 2026 dates.
• Location: Downtown Dahlonega. Confirm the 2026 departure point with the Dahlonega Visitors 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.

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3. Visit with Santa

• Dates & Times:
  • Fridays: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturdays: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Sundays: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (weekends, November 27 – December 20, 2026)
• Location: Dahlonega Visitors Center, 13 South Park Street, Dahlonega, GA 30533
• Details: Let your kids meet Santa, share their Christmas wishes, and drop letters in the special North Pole mailbox.

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4. Festival of Trees

• Dates: Friday, November 27, 2026, 6:15 PM – 6:45 PM, right after the Lighting of the Square
• Location: Hancock Park, Dahlonega, GA 30533
• Details: Head to Hancock Park after Santa lights the park to enjoy the decorated Christmas trees. Check the official schedule for viewing details beyond opening night.

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5. Christmas Parade

• Date & Time: Saturday, December 12, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
• Location: Starts at Hill Street, heads west down Main Street, loops around the Gold Museum, and returns down Main Street to Hill Street
• Details: Don’t miss Dahlonega’s famous Christmas Parade featuring festive floats, music, and a visit from Santa Claus himself.

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6. Christmas Market on Candy Cane Lane

• Dates: December 5-6 and December 12-13, 2026
  • Saturdays and Sundays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Dahlonega Woman's Club Community House, 111 North Park Street, and Hancock Park, Dahlonega, GA 30533
• Details: Browse handmade gifts, themed baskets, and delicious treats at this juried market hosted by the Dahlonega Woman's Club.

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7. Live Performances at the Holly Theater

• Dates:
  • Annie (Rated G): December 4-20, 2026
  • Showtimes and tickets: check the Holly Theater closer to the season
• Location: Holly Theater, 69 West Main Street, Dahlonega, GA 30533
• Details: Enjoy a Rated G holiday musical perfect for the whole family.

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8. Extended Shopping Hours

• Dates: Throughout the holiday season
• Location: Downtown Dahlonega Shops
• Details: Find one-of-a-kind gifts in Dahlonega’s locally-owned stores. Check with individual shops for holiday hours.

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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.

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10. Christmas Tea

• Dates: Check with the tea room closer to the season for 2026 dates and seatings
• Location: Waffles & Tea Room, 
• Details: Reservations required for this cozy holiday tea experience featuring pastries, sandwiches, and fine teas.

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11. Art Markets and Open Houses

• Dates: Saturday, November 28, 2026, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Dahlonega Arts Association Christmas Art Market)
• Location: Hancock Park, Dahlonega, GA 30533. Check local galleries, such as Chestatee Artists Gallery, 11 South Grove Street, for their own holiday open houses.
• Details: Support local artists and find unique handmade holiday gifts.

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12. Food Trucks and Festive Treats

• Dates: Varies by event. Check the official schedule closer to the season.
• Location: Historic Downtown Dahlonega
• Details: Enjoy seasonal eats from local food trucks and cafes as you stroll through the festive streets.

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20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dahlonega's Old Fashioned Christmas 2026

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 Friday, November 27, 2026, 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 Saturday, December 12, 2026. Arrive early to find a good viewing spot.

8. Where can I meet Santa in Dahlonega?

Santa will be at the Dahlonega Visitors Center, 13 South Park Street, on weekends from November 27 to December 20, 2026. Santa’s hours are Fridays (3:00 PM – 6:00 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 5-6 and December 12-13, 2026 (Saturdays and Sundays), from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

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

Yes! Downtown Dahlonega has locally-owned shops, 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 display of decorated Christmas trees in Hancock Park. On opening night, visitors gather there on Friday, November 27, 2026, from 6:15 to 6:45 PM, right after Santa lights the Square and Hancock Park.

15. Are there any live holiday performances?

Yes, the Holly Theater presents the musical Annie (Rated G) from December 4 to 20, 2026. Check the theater for showtimes and tickets.

16. Where can I have holiday tea in Dahlonega?

Holiday tea has been offered at Waffles & Tea Room, 90 Public Square North, Dahlonega, GA. Check with the tea room closer to the season for 2026 dates; 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?

Hot cocoa is part of the Lighting of the Square festivities, and the Christmas Market features home-baked goods in Ms. Claus' Kitchen. For food trucks at other events, check the official schedule closer to the season.

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 christmasindahlonega.com or contact the Dahlonega Visitor Center at 13 South Park Street, Dahlonega, GA 30533 for more details.

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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.

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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.

 

Here is a quick summary of key 2026 events.

Event	Date(s)	Time	Location	Description
Lighting of the Square	November 27, 2026	6:00 PM	Historic Downtown Dahlonega	A grand illumination of the square with live music and festive lights.
Carriage Rides	Select evenings; check the official schedule	Varies	Downtown Dahlonega	Horse-drawn rides through festively lit streets.
Visit with Santa	Nov 27–Dec 20, 2026 (Fri–Sun)	Fri: 3-6 PM, Sat: 12-6 PM, Sun: 1-5 PM	By the Visitor Center	Meet Santa and drop letters in the North Pole mailbox.
Festival of Trees	Nov 27, 2026	6:15–6:45 PM	Downtown Dahlonega	Decorated Christmas trees in Hancock Park, right after the Lighting of the Square.
Christmas Parade	December 12, 2026	12:00–1:00 PM	Downtown Parade Route	Floats, music, and Santa Claus in a vibrant holiday parade.