The Top Christmas Events In Southern Georgia
With the winter weather finally here to stay, our families are eager to embrace the holiday spirit. Wreaths, garland, and thousands of Christmas lights turn historic brick-paved streets into a scene out of your favorite holiday movie. A joyous tingling in your heart and sense of togetherness is impossible to ignore as you walk down Southern Georgia’s festive holiday streets with your friends and family. Take a stroll with a hot cup of cocoa to warm your fingers as your favorite classic holiday tunes ring in all of the Christmas nostalgia from your childhood, or perhaps you are experiencing your first “Hallmark holiday” for the first time. Either way, they know how to celebrate the holidays and deserve recognition for having some of the best, small-town celebrations in the Peach State.
Folkston | Christmas on Main
When Main Street in downtown Folkston gets set for the holidays, it is the epitome of small-town Christmas. The charming area has a storybook feel all-year-long, which becomes elevated during the final month of the year. The locals will tell you that one of the can’t-miss events of the year is the town’s annual Christmas on Main. The all-day event includes a vintage Christmas market, live music, and ends with an unforgettable Light-It-Up Parade. The local small businesses will have their storefronts decorated from top to bottom with homemade decorations. Street vendors from all over the area will be out showing off their assortment of holiday goodies. The number of smiles seen at this event will melt the heart of any holiday Grinch. Folkston’s Christmas on Main is a free event for all, with plenty of food and vendors to keep you busy. It is an all-day event on December 4th, starting with the market and FREE pictures with Mr. Clause, ending with the parade starting at 7:30 PM.
Kingsland | Christmas in Kingsland
The red brick sidewalks and vintage iron light poles lining historic highway US 17 are a perfect start for a small-town Christmas celebration. Combine the charming storefronts and a proud close-knit community, and you have the makings of Christmas in Kingsland. The event is put on by the city in partnership with the Kingsland Downtown Development Authority to bring the magic of the holidays to one of the most quaint spots in Southern Georgia. This year, Santa Cause and his little helpers are bringing SNOW to the south. There will be an entire play area dedicated to snow so that kids can have fun in a safe, controlled environment. Other activities include live entertainment, a chance to see the big jolly man himself, and free cookies or holiday beverages for all who attend. This event is on Thursday, December 9th at 5:30 PM in the Kingsland Royal District.
Waycross | Ware County Christmas Festival
The brick-sided buildings of downtown Waycross will be lit up with Christmas lights and full of smiles during their Christmas Festival on Saturday, December 11th. There will be plenty of Christmas vendors, holiday treats, and storefronts to explore leading up to the conclusion of the event at 6:30. A special Toy Trains and Candy Canes parade will wrap up the day as it makes its way through downtown. The Waycross historic district has a distinct, whimsical charm of its own that when coupled with the sights and sounds of mid-winter merriment, should make for an absolutely magical afternoon. This event is free to attend and will have activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Woodbine | Christmas in the Bine
This enchanting small-town haven seems to be just a drive-through quarter at first glance however the natural beauty and togetherness of this corner of Southern Georgia rival even the largest cities. On December 4th their local Woman’s Club is hosting a holiday showcase at the Woodbine Community Center for everyone to enjoy. Handcrafted goods will be sold at a small holiday market next to a neighborhood bake sale serving everything from cookies and cakes to homemade candies! Additional nearby businesses will be displaying local art for sale. A spread of food and local music will keep you busy until the lighted parade at sundown. Christmas in the Bine is completely free to attend.
St. Marys | Christmas in the Park
For nearly eight hours the gorgeous St. Marys waterfront will be packed with food, entertainment, and plenty for the little ones to do. Trains, games, and an abundance of sweet treats will be available for all the little ones to enjoy. Christmas characters will be going up and down the street, available for the perfect family photo op. The festivities will start at noon on Saturday, December 4th, and will run until about 7:30 PM. The celebration will close with the arrival of Santa Clause himself, and a special holiday movie screening at the riverside. Christmas in the Park is a free event located at the St. Marys Waterfront Park.
Darien | Christmas in Darien Celebration
This waterfront city is ringing in the season with its Christmas in Darien Celebration this Sunday, December 5th. It all starts with a ceremony at the Grant Chapel at 4:30, followed by the holiday parade. When the sun sets into the river and the cold winds start to blow, join everyone at the McIntosh Art Association to enjoy carolers in preparation for a tree lighting ceremony. Rumor has it, that Santa will be making an appearance around 6:30 to see all the little children! When Kris Kringle departs back to the North Pole, the amazing people at Molly Jane’s on Broad Street will be showing a Christmas movie to close out the night. Darien’s riverbank scenery is a sight to behold during the daytime, but it becomes even more beautiful under the stars. Christmas in Darien is the perfect time to see it for yourself while you take part in all the festivities.
Blackshear | Toy Trains and Candy Canes Parade
The city of Blackshear will commence the Toy Trains and Candy Canes Celebration with a parade that will begin at 6 PM down Mainstreet for everyone to enjoy. While the theme is similar to the neighboring city of Waycross, the event is completely independent. Arrive early to witness the historical sights of Blackshear and immerse yourself in its deep cultural history. Take a step back from the larger city Christmas events and enjoy the charming natural beauty of one of Southern Georgia’s hidden gems. The Blackshear Christmas Parade is free to enjoy for anyone who wants to come out on Monday, December 6th.