Seasonal & Holidays
2025 Barrow Holiday Guide: Lights, Festive Fun & Good Cheer
From small-town charm to seasonal celebrations, these hometown holiday highlights bring the spirit of the season to life.
The holiday season has arrived in Barrow, bringing twinkling lights, cheerful events and plenty of ways to make memories close to home. From light displays to beloved local traditions, here are the hometown holiday highlights you won’t want to miss.
Please note: Dates and details are subject to change, so be sure to check with each organizer before you go — many events require tickets or reservations in advance.
Glow Light Show
When: Select dates November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026 | Evenings (see website)
Where: Coolray Field, 2500 Buford Dr, Lawrenceville, GA
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This drive‑thru spectacle features more than one million lights synchronized to holiday music, with tunnels and dazzling displays perfect for family photo ops. Tickets are sold per vehicle, making it a budget‑friendly outing for groups. Conveniently located near the Mall of Georgia, it’s an easy drive from Barrow County. Tickets required: Regularly priced $39.99, peak week (Dec. 12-25) $49.99 & season pass $149.99.
More info: glowlightshow.com
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Winter WonderLights
When: Select Nights Nov. 21 – Dec. 30, 2025 | Jan. 2–3 & 9–10, 2026 | Opens at 5 p.m.
Where: State Botanical Garden of Georgia, 2450 S Milledge Ave, Athens, GA
This walk‑through light extravaganza transforms the botanical garden into a glowing wonderland with themed areas like Candy Cane Lane and Cone Tree Plaza. The half‑mile ADA‑accessible trail takes 45–60 minutes to explore, with hot cocoa, s’mores, and a holiday market at the Visitor Center. Tickets must be purchased online in advance.
More info: botgarden.uga.edu/wonderlights
Christmas Parade & Santa’s After Party
When: December 13, 2025 | 2:00–5:30 PM
Where: Downtown Winder & Jug Tavern Park, 139 E Athens St, Winder, GA
This year’s “Three Ring Christmas” parade features festive floats, local performers, and Santa himself. After the parade, Jug Tavern Park hosts Santa’s After Party with free photos, live music, food trucks, and holiday vendors. It’s a long‑standing community tradition that draws families from across Barrow County.
More info: cityofwinder.com/Home/Components/Calendar/Event
Handmade Holiday Market at Winder’s Christmas Parade
When: December 13, 2025 | 2:00–5:30 PM
Where: Jug Tavern Park, 139 E Athens St, Winder, GA
Coinciding with the parade, this market showcases handmade holiday goods from local artisans. Visitors can browse festive crafts, enjoy live entertainment, and grab bites from food trucks while kids take free photos with Santa. It’s a perfect spot to shop small and soak in the holiday atmosphere.
More info: eventeny.com/events/handmade-holiday-market-at-winders-christmas-parade-2025-23518
Barrow GMC Christmas Festival
When: December 17, 2025 | 5:30–8:00 PM
Where: Barrow GMC, 239 W Candler St, Winder, GA
This family‑friendly evening offers crafts, games, and holiday fun designed especially for children. Parents can enjoy a night out while kids participate in festive activities under supervision. Space is limited, so advance registration is recommended.
More info: barrowgmc.org/event-details-registration/2025-barrow-gmc-christmas-festival
Athens on Ice
When: December 2025 | Multiple daily sessions (see calendar)
Where: The Classic Center, 440 Foundry Pavilion, Athens, GA
Athens’ largest seasonal ice rink returns, offering skating sessions for all ages with rentals available. The rink is a popular spot for families, date nights, and group outings, with festive concessions nearby. It’s an ongoing attraction throughout December, perfect for repeat visits.
More info: classiccenter.com/convention-center/athens-on-ice
Holiday Market 2025
When: December 12, 2025 | 6:00–9:00 pm
Where: Beechwood Shopping Center, 196 Alps Rd, Athens, GA
This festive market combines shopping with carnival‑style fun, featuring local vendors, holiday crafts, and family entertainment. It’s a one‑day event that blends Athens’ creative community with seasonal cheer, making it a lively destination for holiday browsing.
More info: beechwoodathens.com/holiday-market-2025
Enjoy the season, make a few memories close to home and have a happy holiday, Barrow!
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