Alpharetta, Georgia – Downtown Alpharetta is alive and vibrant as the city gets ready for the long-awaited comeback of its Season of Celebration. Starting with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, November 23, from 5 to 9 p.m., Alpharetta encourages both residents and guests to experience the warmth, joy, and magic of the season for the 46th straight year.
Gift from Evans General Contractors, a brilliant 50-foot Christmas tree will be the focal point of this festive evening. Adorned with thousands of glittering lights, the tree will be lighting on the Town Green at 6:30 p.m., thus officially beginning the Christmas season. Early arrival is encouraged to guarantee best locations for the countdown to the major event.
Still, the magic is not limited there. Around Market Street, families and friends may gather around fire pits roasting marshmallows and drinking hot beverages from neighborhood favorites such The Ginger Room, Boarding Pass Coffee, and Kilwin’s. Children can enter the magical igloo of Metropolitan Ballet Theatre for a unique Sugarplum Storytime for a whimsical touch, therefore further augmenting the Christmas pleasure.
The evening will be filled with live entertainment, featuring seasonal tunes performed by the Jazz Ensemble of Alpharetta City Band. Set to open December 13–15 at Innovation Academy, guests will also be given to a sneak preview of the Metropolitan Ballet Theatre’s “The Nutcracker.”
Read also: Community Assistance Center launches holiday gift sponsorship program for kids, seeks donations
Snow flurries falling over the Town Green will enhance the festive atmosphere and provide the ideal backdrop for family pictures. Santa Claus himself will make a special visit to hear children’s holiday wishes. Strolling performers and costumed figures will stroll through the audience spreading festive pleasure.
“The tree lighting is one of Alpharetta’s most cherished traditions,” said Alpharetta Mayor Jim Gilvin. “It brings me great joy to see our community come together, sharing the spirit of peace, hope, and love at the heart of the holiday season.”
In line with the holidays, Alpharetta is once again hosting its Holiday Food Drive which will benefit North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC). Visitors are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to the Tree Lighting Ceremony or drop them off at any one of the 7 inside donation bins or 4 outside tree shelves from November 23 through December 15.
Read also: State of Georgia sees economic pressure as October tax revenue drops $89.7 million from last year
Along with toiletries, pantry basics such peanut butter, pasta, canned soups, and mac & cheese top most needed products this year. As a thank you gift, Tree Lighting Ceremony donors will get a festive jingle bell bracelet.
Popular venues such Alpharetta City Hall, Wills Park Recreation Center, and Avalon Concierge have indoor donation containers. For those short for time, financial gifts can also be made straight on the NFCC website.
Read also: Georgia Power’s first battery energy storage system launches, strengthening Georgia’s power grid
The Tree Lighting Ceremony is free to attend, and parking is available at designated decks on 2 Park Plaza and 92 Milton Ave. To really enjoy the evening’s celebrations, guests are advised to pack portable chairs and dress warmly.
Beyond the Tree Lighting, Alpharetta’s Season of Celebration offers a complete calendar of Christmas seminars, activities, and events. See the official website of the event or follow Alpharetta Recreation on Facebook @AlpharettaRecreation to learn more and schedule and organize your holiday visits. To learn more about the Season of Celebration visit https://www.alpharetta.ga.us/season-of-celebration
Alpharetta remains a shining center of community enthusiasm and festive cheer as the holiday season is about to start. Don’t miss the opportunity to create lifelong memories and honor the magic of the season with neighbors, friends, and family.
