In a city well-known for its Southern hospitality, diverse food scene and rich history, the annual German Christkindl market adds to the winter atmosphere.
Below, find the latest information for planning your visit to Atlanta’s Christmas Market, including key dates, openings, locations and unique regional specialties.
Atlanta Christmas Market
Located in the Buckhead Village District of Atlanta, this market transforms into a festive hub from mid-November.
Stalls showcase German handicrafts, ornaments and snacks, while entertainment features carolers and brass bands.
Dates and Location
Atlanta Christmas Market dates: 15th to 17th November and 22nd November to 24th December 2024 (unconfirmed).
Location: Buckhead Village. 290 East Paces Ferry Road Northeast.
Opening times: Monday to Thursday: 3pm to 8pm. Friday to Sunday: 11am to 9pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Santa: Yes.
Ice skating: Yes, at Ponce City Market.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten-free: Yes, but may be limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a lead.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: Artisan crafts, food and charm exclusive to the South.
Recommended tour: See the highlights of Atlanta with this popular trolley tour.
Specialities: Sweet pecan pies; peach cobbler; Brunswick stew; cornbread; fried chicken.
Where to stay: Hyatt Centric Buckhead is a highly-rated hotel 5-minutes away.
Nearby Hotels
If you don’t want to travel too far from Buckhead Village, you could stay at the Hyatt Centric, which is in the same area.
Event Location
What to Expect
Regional Specialties
- Sweet Potato Casserole: Particularly prevalent in the Southern states, this side dish marries the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a blend of interesting spices.
- Collard Greens: A staple of Southern cuisine, collard greens are slow-cooked with a piece of smoked meat until tender, imbuing them with a rich, smoky flavour. Vegetarian and vegan versions are available.
- Cornbread: Originating from Native American cuisine, cornbread has become a staple in the Southern US. It’s a savoury bread made with cornmeal, and its slight sweetness makes it an excellent companion to savoury dishes.
- Pecan Pie: Another popular dish, pecan pie features a filling of pecan nuts mixed with eggs, butter, and sugar. The result is a sweet, nutty treat with a caramel-like consistency.
- Pumpkin Pie: A classic American dessert, pumpkin pie is made with a smooth, spiced pumpkin-based custard filling, typically seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg.
At the Market Stalls
- Fried Chicken and Waffles: A true Atlanta classic, this dish combines perfectly fried, crispy chicken with soft, fluffy waffles. It’s an unexpected but delicious pairing often enjoyed with a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet and savoury treat.
- Brunswick Stew: Originating from the South, Brunswick stew is a hearty, slow-cooked dish with meat – usually chicken and pork – and vegetables.
- Peach Cobbler: Peach cobbler is a sweet dessert typically consisting of juicy peaches topped with a crumbly biscuit or pie dough.
- Mulled Wine: A popular festive drink, mulled wine, or glühwein, is borrowed from traditional German Christmas markets.
- Bratwurst: A German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal, bratwurst is usually grilled or pan-fried and served in a bun with a squirt of mustard.
What to Buy
- Ornaments: Often made by local artisans, these can range from beautifully carved wooden decorations to hand-blown glass ornaments.
- Local Art: Atlanta has a thriving art scene. You can find different artwork at the market stalls, from beautifully framed prints to innovative sculptures and creative photography.
- Handwoven Baskets: Each is a unique, intricate piece of work that is useful and decorative.
- Pecan Treats: Georgia is famous for its pecan trees, and you can find pecan treats and snacks in Atlanta. Think pecan brittle, candied pecans, or pecan-flavoured coffees.
- Craft Beers and Spirits: Atlanta has a flourishing craft beer and spirits scene. Vendors sell a selection of locally brewed ales, craft gins, and whiskeys.
To make your visit to the city as smooth as possible, I highly recommend using Discover Atlanta. It’s a valuable resource full of practical information and local insights.
Sustainability Tips
- Food Waste: Atlanta eateries are renowned for hearty portions. Order judiciously to avoid food waste, and don’t hesitate to ask for a takeaway box for leftovers.
- Shop Ethically: When buying gifts and souvenirs, prioritise products made by local artisans and businesses. This will not only support the local economy but also reduce the environmental footprint associated with mass-produced goods.
- Sustainable Food: Atlanta has many restaurants offering plant-based options. Choosing these can reduce your environmental footprint.
- Transport: Atlanta has an extensive public transport system, including buses and the MARTA rail system. For shorter distances, take advantage of Atlanta’s bike-sharing programme, Relay.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research.
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