The North Georgia Mountains offer a magical escape during the holiday season, with Blue Ridge and Ellijay providing the perfect backdrop for festive fun, cozy gatherings, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a family-friendly Christmas celebration, toast to the New Year, or enjoy local flavors and outdoor adventures, this guide has everything you need to plan the ultimate holiday getaway. Including assisting you in picking out the perfect cabin rental for this special time of year!
Festive Events and Holiday Cheer
1. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway: Holiday Express
Embark on a delightful journey aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway’s Holiday Express. This family-friendly train ride departs from downtown Blue Ridge and features festive decorations, holiday music, and of course a visit from Santa himself! The kids will love the Christmas stories and hot cocoa served onboard. Be sure to book your tickets early, as this popular event sells out quickly.
2. Light Up Blue Ridge Festival
The cherished annual event that takes place in downtown Blue Ridge, transforms the area into a winter wonderland. This North Georgia Mountain festival features live music performed by local artists, arts and crafts vendors, a beautiful Christmas parade, and ends with the lighting of the Great Tree. Santa and Mrs. Claus make appearances throughout the day, offering photo opportunities for kids and the young at heart. This is a “don’t miss event” for the kids, where tons of great memories will surely be made!
3. Ellijay’s Christmas Parade and Festival
Celebrate the holidays in Ellijay with a traditional Christmas parade followed by a festive gathering in the town square. The kids can enjoy doing crafts, sipping on hot chocolate, and a visit with Santa, while parents explore local shops brimming with holiday gifts and treats.
4. Copperhill Kiwanis Club – McCaysville & Copper Basin 65th Christmas Parade is on December 7, 2024 2:00 PM –4:00 PM. Fun floats, food and activities for the kids.
5. Christmas Tour of Homes! Grab your ticket and meet at the Fannin County Family Connection Community Room for a holiday treat between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Upon your arrival, you will receive your map with directions as well as the information to enter into each of the homes that are featured on the tour. Mark your calendar to this inviting event – 1 PM and 5 PM.
Culinary Delights and Cozy Bars
6. Harvest on Main
One of Blue Ridge’s top dining spots, Harvest on Main, serves up holiday-inspired dishes in a warm, rustic setting. Savor seasonal specialties like herb-crusted trout or hearty lamb stew, paired with locally crafted cocktails.
7. Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar and Grill
This Blue Ridge favorite offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends and family. Enjoy classic American fare, seasonal beers, and creative cocktails that will keep you warm on chilly evenings.
8. Ellijay Wood-Fired Pizza
For a casual night out, Ellijay Wood-Fired Pizza delivers gourmet pies with farm-fresh ingredients. Their holiday-themed pizzas and mulled wine are sure to add a festive twist to your meal. This is definitely one of our favorite pizza spots!
Wineries and Special Holiday Events
9. Mercier Orchards
No trip to North Georgia Mountains is complete without a visit to Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge. During the holiday season, the orchard offers special events like wreath-making workshops, hot apple cider tastings, and opportunities to pick up freshly baked pies for your holiday feast. You can also purchase frozen pies that you can bake at home and serve fresh out of the oven on Christmas Day!
10. Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard and Winery
Nestled in the rolling hills of Ellijay, this family-owned winery hosts festive events throughout December, including live music and tastings of their award-winning wines. Sip a glass of red by their roaring fire pit for the ultimate winter experience.
11. Cartecay Vineyards
Celebrate the season at Cartecay Vineyards, where you can enjoy holiday-themed wine flights, live music, and stunning views of the Appalachian foothills. Don’t miss their mulled wine—a seasonal favorite that’s perfect for warming up on a brisk day. On New Year’s Eve from 1:30-5:30 enjoy live music by Jerry Sorn.
12. Roo Winery – On December 20th, come enjoy a Gourmet Holiday Dinner at Roo. Featuring a welcome Sparkling glass of Wine (Zippy Buble’) Course 1 – Smoked Salmon Salad. Course 2 – Winter Vegetable Soup. Course 3 – Choice 1: Glazed Ham with Duck Fat Roasted Potatoes and Garlic Parmesan Sprouts. Be sure to get your tickets as soon as possible as this event will definitely sell out.
Outdoor Adventures and Holiday Fun
13. Explore Local Hiking Trails
Winter hikes in the North Georgia Mountains are serene and invigorating. With the leaves down, popular trails like the Benton MacKaye or Fall Branch Falls offer breathtaking views of the winter landscape. Bundle up, pack some hot cocoa, and enjoy the crisp mountain air…and don’t forget Fido, most of the Georgia Mountain Trails are dog friendly!
14. Ice Skating in Blue Ridge
The Blue Ridge Ice Skating Rink is a hit with families and couples alike. Open throughout the holiday season, it’s a great way to embrace the winter spirit while gliding under twinkling lights. Be sure to wear warm attire, including a hat and gloves.
15. Christmas Tree Farms
For many families, cutting down their own Christmas tree is a cherished holiday tradition. Ellijay offers several tree farms where you can select and cut your perfect tree, enjoy a hayride with the kids, and sip on hot chocolate. This is the ideal way to start your holiday season!
16.Holiday Celebration at the Copperhead Lodge in Blairsville
November 30th from 4-6, Santa and Mrs. Claus will personally bring in the Christmas tree by a horse-drawn wagon. Get your picture with Santa, hot chocolate, apple cider, games and crafts
Ring in the New Year
17. New Year’s on the Blue Ridge Railway
This fun-filled experience offers delicious wine and dessert as you enjoy a New Year’s Eve trip on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. The train departs around 10 pm, so be sure to get there early, and then return about a half-hour after midnight. Enjoy the luxury of climate-controlled railway cars as you sit back and relax as the train takes you on a 26-mile excursion including a beautiful stretch along the Toccoa River.
18. Come out to the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds and usher in 2025 with bang! Parking lot and food trucks open at 6pm. 8
Fireworks will begin at 8pm on Tuesday, December 31st! Come early to get a front row seat for this spectacular show!
19. The Overlook Inn’s New Year Celebration
For a more intimate experience, The Overlook Inn in Ellijay offers a cozy New Year’s Eve package complete with a gourmet dinner, champagne, and stunning mountain views.
Shop Local for Unique Gifts
The holiday season is the perfect time to explore the charming shops and galleries in downtown Blue Ridge and Ellijay. From handcrafted pottery to locally made jams and wines, you’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list.
Tips for Planning Your Holiday Getaway
Book Accommodations at your luxury cabin rental with Morning Breeze Cabin Rentals as soon as possible: The holiday season is a busy time in Blue Ridge and Ellijay, so secure your North Georgia Mountain cabin well in advance.www.morningbreezecabinrentals.com
Layer Up: While the days are mild, evenings can be chilly. Dress in layers and pack a cozy jacket for nighttime events.
Check Event Schedules: Some events and activities require reservations or tickets, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Whether you’re sipping wine by a crackling fire, watching Santa light up the Christmas tree, or hiking through frosty mountain trails, the holiday season in Blue Ridge and Ellijay, Georgia is a magical experience you’ll cherish forever. Make this year’s holiday getaway one to remember by exploring the best these charming towns have to offer!
