Holidays in Decatur | 2024
For the holidays, you can’t beat hometown. Shop and celebrate locally in November and December at Holidays in Decatur!
November – December, 2024
Knock out your holiday shopping with special in-store events, discounts, and treats at local shops, restaurants, and services. Participating shops will also stay open late, offering a variety of festive fun! With twinkling lights, cheery music, festive window displays, and family-friendly events — Decatur is your family-friendly destination throughout the holiday season.
HOLIDAY FUN IN DECATUR HIGHLIGHTS AT-A-GLANCE
Holiday Maker’s Market
Saturday, November 9th
Get into the holiday spirit with a celebration of creativity, community, and local craftsmanship! This year includes a dedicated Children’s Zone with: Youth maker activities Face painting Mechanical animal rides Plus, we’ll be opening the doors of our makerspace for hands-on activities in the shop, perfect for teens and adults eager to create! 
Where’s Santa?
Thursday, November 14th
Santa’s taking a break from his North Pole duties for a night out in Decatur! Join the Terrific Thursday holiday fun and search for him as he pops into local shops to spread cheer and pick out presents. From toys and handcrafted goods to cozy reads and winter wear, Santa knows he’ll find the perfect gifts for everyone on his list, and you will too! Shop merry and late at local stores, snagging snacks and sales. Snap a selfie with Santa if you spot him!
Decatur First Time Christmas Market
Saturday – Sunday, November 16th – 17th
This year there will be a Christmas Market at Decatur First UMC! Mark your calendars now to shop the market and buy lunch and concessions from the DFUMC Preschool food booth as a fundraiser.
Santa Pictures with Pets
Thursday, November 21st
Bring your pets and snap a photo with Santa on the Square – for free! Furry, feathery, or scaly – all are welcome! Remember to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the fun! All pets must be well-behaved, properly restrained, and up-to-date with vaccinations. Decatur’s Taj Ma Hound will be selling puppy, holiday-themed treats.
Santa on the Square
Saturday, November 30th
Santa Claus is comin’ to town! Snap a picture with Ol’ Nick and enjoy make-and-take crafts, holiday music, hot cocoa, warm cookies, and other fun surprises!
Small Business Saturday
Saturday, November 30th
Get your holiday shopping done early and support Decatur’s local businesses on Small Business Saturday!
Tree Lighting
December 5th
Santa himself comes to light the tree at this classic Decatur holiday tradition! Throughout the festivities, enjoy holiday carols, hot cocoa and “snow.”
Bonfire + Marshmallow Roast on the Square
December 12th
Free for all ages: Join the community and roast marshmallows around the giant bonfire on the Square in Downtown Decatur!
SantaCon
December 14th
Dress up as your best version of Santa, an elf, a reindeer, or a dreidel. Join along for a night of dancing, fun, and prizes on the square in Decatur at the adults-only celebration! 
Screen on the Square: The Grinch
December 19th
Grumpy, green, and with one big scheme the Grinch that sets off an equally hilarious and heartwarming adventure in this 2018 animated film. Bring your blankets and cozy up under the stars on the Decatur Square—who knows, maybe your heart will grow a few sizes!
Grand Menorah Lighting
December 29th
The Chanukah celebration on the Square brings hot drinks, latkes, music, and photos with Mr. Dreidel!
Feast and Make Merry
Celebrate and unwind at Decatur’s notable restaurants with seasonal, chef-driven menus.
Everyday Holiday Magic
Walk through giant light displays on the square and in Oakhurst – perfect for selfies!
Join the hunt for free art! Look for a Decatur “D” or an octopus shape hidden away in Decatur shops. They’ll be hiding all season long!
More information on Holidays in Decatur.
Learn more about Decatur & Druid Hills, and see homes for sale.