12 Unmissable Things To Do In Atlanta This Weekend (December 26-28, 2025)
Planning your ultimate Atlanta weekend itinerary for December 26–28, 2025, requires knowing where the action is right after the Christmas holiday. This post-holiday weekend is packed with unique opportunities, combining the tail end of Atlanta’s spectacular seasonal festivities with major sports and a vibrant music scene, ensuring there is something for every interest, from family-friendly outings to high-energy nightlife.
Whether you are a local looking for a fresh experience or a visitor seeking the city's best attractions, this guide curates the most current and compelling events happening across the city. Get ready to dive into the best of what the capital of the South has to offer this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, making the most of the final days of the year.
The Best of Atlanta's Post-Holiday Weekend: December 26–28, 2025
The weekend of December 26th to the 28th offers a perfect blend of high-energy entertainment and seasonal charm. With the city still glowing from the holidays, you can catch major events before they close for the season, alongside must-see concerts and professional sports.
Friday, December 26: High-Energy Sports and EDM
Friday night in Atlanta is electric, featuring a major NBA matchup and a highly anticipated show from a rising star in electronic music. If you are looking for excitement, this is the night to be out.
Atlanta Hawks vs. Miami Heat (NBA)
Catch the Atlanta Hawks in action as they host the Miami Heat at the State Farm Arena. This is a must-see for sports fans and a true Atlanta experience. The intensity of an NBA game provides a thrilling atmosphere, perfect for a Friday night out in downtown Atlanta. Be sure to check ticket availability for this popular matchup.
Tape B: The Soundtrack To Everything You Forgot
For music lovers, the Coca-Cola Roxy is hosting the EDM sensation Tape B on Friday, December 26th, as part of his "The Soundtrack To Everything You Forgot" tour. Known for his unique blend of heavy bass and nostalgic samples, this concert promises to be a high-energy event at one of Atlanta's premier music venues in The Battery Atlanta. This is a top pick for those seeking Atlanta nightlife and a major concert experience.
Saturday, December 27: Dazzling Lights and Classic Arts
Saturday is the ideal day for family activities, cultural immersion, and experiencing the city’s stunning holiday decorations before they disappear for the season.
IllumiNights at Zoo Atlanta: A Lantern Festival
Experience the magic of IllumiNights at the Zoo, a spectacular lantern festival that transforms Zoo Atlanta into a dazzling nighttime wonderland. This cherished holiday tradition features hundreds of handcrafted Chinese lanterns, creating brilliant illuminated vistas of wildlife and nature. It's a perfect, family-friendly event for Saturday evening, offering a unique and festive way to walk through the zoo grounds. The festival runs through January 18, 2026, but this weekend is one of your last chances to catch it before the New Year.
The Nutcracker by Atlanta Ballet
The iconic holiday performance of Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker" by the Atlanta Ballet is running until Saturday, December 27th, at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. This classic ballet is a cultural institution and a beautiful way to celebrate the season's end. Securing a ticket to this performance offers a chance to experience world-class arts in Atlanta.
Sunday, December 28: Seasonal Charm and Unique Exploration
Wrap up your weekend with some lighter activities, from enjoying the lingering holiday spirit in Buckhead to exploring Atlanta's unique, year-round attractions.
Miracle on Peachtree in Buckhead
Take a stroll through Buckhead to experience the "Miracle on Peachtree," a month-long series of festivities that transforms the neighborhood into a dazzling holiday destination. While specific events like the Hot Chocolate Crawl may have passed, the area remains beautifully decorated, offering a festive and charming atmosphere for an afternoon walk, shopping, or a meal. This is a great way to enjoy the seasonal cheer one last time.
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
This is one of Atlanta’s most famous holiday light displays, and it continues to run this weekend. The Atlanta Botanical Garden is transformed into a spectacular light show featuring millions of twinkling lights, elaborate displays, and festive music. It's a truly magical experience and an essential item on any list of things to do in Atlanta this weekend. Be sure to book tickets in advance.
More Must-Visit Atlanta Attractions and LSI Entities
Beyond the scheduled events, Atlanta offers a wealth of permanent attractions and unique local spots that are perfect for filling out your weekend itinerary. These locations provide topical authority and a deeper dive into the city’s culture.
For the Culture and History Buff
- The Center for Puppetry Arts: A unique and unusual Atlanta attraction, this center is home to one of the world's largest collections of puppets, including a significant collection of Jim Henson’s creations. It’s a fun, quirky stop for all ages.
- College Football Hall of Fame: Located downtown, this interactive museum is a paradise for football fans. It offers a deep dive into the history and heroes of college football, making it a great Saturday or Sunday afternoon activity.
- The Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park: A solemn and essential visit for anyone interested in American history and the Civil Rights Movement. The park includes Dr. King's birth home, the Ebenezer Baptist Church, and The King Center.
For Foodies and Local Experiences
- Take a Food Tour: Atlanta is a culinary hotspot. Consider booking a guided food tour in neighborhoods like Inman Park or Old Fourth Ward to sample local favorites and learn about the city's history simultaneously. This is a fantastic 'outside-the-box' date idea or group activity.
- Visit a Farmer's Market: Check out one of Atlanta's many vibrant farmer's markets, such as the Peachtree Road Farmers Market (check seasonal hours) or the Dekalb Farmers Market, for fresh produce, local goods, and a taste of the community.
For Budget-Friendly and Family Fun
- Winter Family Flicks: The Aurora Cineplex often hosts Winter Family Flicks, which can be an inexpensive way to enjoy a movie with the family over the holiday period, running through the New Year.
- Explore the BeltLine: Rent a bike or take a walk along the Atlanta BeltLine. This former railway corridor turned multi-use trail connects many of Atlanta’s most popular parks and neighborhoods, offering great views, public art, and easy access to restaurants and breweries.
- The Christkindl Market: If it's still running this weekend, the Christkindl Market offers a traditional German-style holiday market experience with food, drinks, and unique gifts, perfect for a casual Sunday outing.
From the roar of the crowd at the Hawks game to the serene glow of the IllumiNights lanterns, this weekend in Atlanta, December 26–28, 2025, is poised to be memorable. Whether you choose a major concert, a cultural classic, or a unique local spot, Atlanta's diverse offerings guarantee a fantastic end to your holiday season.
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