When it comes to hospitality and holiday cheer, no one does it better than Southerners. We are all about the magic and sparkle of this most special season. So, it should come as no surprise to find that many of our most notable cities have their own unique ways of celebrating this time of the year. Keep reading for five ways to enjoy the holiday season in the Deep South …
In Atlanta: Experience the Dazzle of Big-City Festivity
Photography courtesy of VIE Magazine
With skyscrapers and green spaces alike, and countless diversions of every kind, Atlanta is always a fun city to visit. But, the holidays are something special there, to be sure. Book a room at The Ritz-Carlton, which decorates “to the nines” and even hosts a Christmas Eve dinner, and then head out for some fun at a few of the city’s landmark locations.
The Macy’s Great Tree Lighting at the famous Lenox Square mall already took place this year, but it is definitely worth beholding in all its lighted glory! Plus, the shopping and dining here is fantastic. Speaking of, Ponce City Market is a must for holiday shoppers, and no one in the ATL during the holidays should miss out on a trip to the Miracle bar … it’s amazing, trust us.
In North Carolina: Feast Your Eyes on Christmas Town
Yes, you read that right. There is a town that is literally called Christmas Town, and it has earned the name. Its actual moniker on a map is McAdenville, but this place is overflowing with holiday charm and cheer. Each year, its residents work together to transform their world into an exhibition of Christmas spirit, all along the beautiful South Fork River.
So beloved and well-known is McAdenville that Thomas Kinkade himself created a painting of it.
In Nashville: See the Lights
Photography by Dallus Whitfield
While the Nashville area has tons to do, one holiday feature that always stands out is its many unparalleled light-viewing opportunities. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens and Longwood Gardens both have stunning displays.
And, just a half an hour outside of the city, one can fulfill what has become a tradition for many over the years: a drive-through light show. The Dancing Lights of Christmas in Lebanon, Tennessee, might end up being the best you’ve ever seen!
In Asheville: Settle in at the Biltmore
Anyone who has seen this historic manse in person will tell you that it is not to be missed. This is especially true during December, when the whole place gets a fully festive makeover. We don’t think there is any better spot to find those old-school, by-the-fire winter vibes. Velvet furnishings invite once to sit and admire some of the largest and most ornately decorated trees you’ll ever see … garland sweeps the mantels and stairways … it’s magical.
The Biltmore offers daytime and evening packages to take in its holiday shimmer, and the adjacent Antler Hill Village & Winery has excellent shopping and dining, and glows magnificently at night.
In Savannah: Establish New Traditions
We could be biased, of course, but Savannah is our personal favorite place to enjoy the holiday season in the Deep South. This is, in part, because of its shopping, dining, and stunning natural landscapes and city squares (now decked like the halls), but it’s also because of our community and the memories we love to help visitors and locals alike make.
Whether you seek out the gingerbread houses our shop owners make each year, support small business at our renowned Christmas Market, or see A Christmas Tradition, our beloved live show, we think Savannah has the perfect touches of holiday magic and cheer.
And of course, we’re always open for a visit, too! We would love to meet you this holiday season!
