Holidays in Decatur: Tree lighting, menorah lighting, marshmallow roast, SantaCon, more
‘Tis the season to make merry, in downtown Decatur on the historic Square with the annual Tree Lighting and Menorah Lighting events, plus a few other seasonal celebrations.
And don’t forget, Santa on the Square takes place on Saturday, November 25, 2023.
Kids of all ages can meet with Santa and take a picture, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is a bring-your-own-camera event.
There’s also Screen on the Square, featuring a holiday movie on December 1st.
Come for “Happy Feet” and free popcorn!
Check out our huge, day-by-day list of holiday happenings -- including festivals, tree and menorah lightings, Santa visits, light shows, and more!
2 tree lightings in Decatur
Official Tree Lighting
Come to the Decatur Square on Thursday, December 7, 2023 for the city’s official tree lighting celebration. The event is FREE to attend and designed with kids and families in mind.
The evening starts at 6 p.m. with caroling and hot cocoa beside the tree on the Decatur Square — it is just above the east entrance to the Decatur MARTA Station, on the Church Street side.
At 7 p.m. sharp, Santa himself flips the switch to light the tree.
And then, we’re told, it is going to snow!
West Ponce Tree Lighting
On Friday, December 8, 2023, Santa will light up the tree on West Ponce, along with holiday music, hot cocoa, and cookies.
The event starts at 6 p.m. and the tree lighting happens at 7 p.m.
It takes place on the lawn of the First Christian Church, located at 601 West Ponce de Leon Ave.
More info
SantaCon
SantaCon on the Square takes place on Saturday, December 2, 2023.
This is an adults-only event, starting at 7 p.m.
Wear your Christmas sweater, a Santa suit, reindeer antlers, or any other festive attire.
This will be a night of dancing, celebration, and prizes on the Decatur Square.
there will be a costume contest at 8 pm.
More info
You can also enjoy pecial SantaCon Stops at local pubs and restaurants on and around the square. They’ll have plenty of seasonal cocktails, mocktails, and savory bites to keep your spirits bright! Take your beverage with you, within the designated Open Container District limits.
Want to get a costume?
Here are coupons for select holiday items at Costumes.com and Party City.
Menorah Lighting on the Square
Sunday, December 10, 2023 at 4:30 p.m.
Enjoy hot drinks, latkes, music, and photos with Mr. Dreidel.
More info
Bonfire & Marshmallow Roast
On Thursday, December 14, 2023 you can come to Decatur for a FREE bonfire and marshmallow roast on the Square at 7 p.m. It is hosted by the Decatur Business Assoc. and supervised by the Dekalb Fire Dept.
The event is FREE to attend, and marshmallows are free while supplies last — you’re welcome to bring your own as well!
You will literally find a giant, sand-filled fire pit on the paved area of the Square. Just grab a stick, find a spot, and roast some marshmallows.
You may also be interested in:
- Lights of Life drive-thru holiday attraction in Marietta
- Discounts for Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens
- Discounts for Stone Mountain Christmas
- Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
