Tag Archive for: holiday season

LIGHTS OVER ALPHARETTA 2023

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/10/23

Ameris Bank Amphitheater

Friday, November 24 – Saturday, December 30

Tickets: https://lightsoveralpharetta.com/

Walking Nights: Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays

Driving Nights: Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays

* Bring your dog on Tuesdays (Dogs are not required for entry!)

* Hear the Atlanta Carolers on Thursdays

* Listen to a saxophonist on Sundays

* Meet Santa on select nights

Check out the website here for Santa’s schedule!

Ticket Pricing:

*Ticket prices are per car, even on walking nights

Value Nights: Monday-Wednesday

(Except the week of Christmas)

$29 in advance, $39 at the gate

Peak Nights: Thursday-Sunday and the whole week of Christmas

$39 in advance; $49 at the gate

Taxes and fees will be added.

Early Bird Ticket Options:

Season Pass: Come as many times as you like for $125!

The first 100 tickets sold online are only $99.

Anytime Tickets: Buy your ticket now and pick the date later for $35. The first 250 tickets sold online are just $25!

Anytime tickets will only be sold until Nov 23rd.

Taxes and fees will be added.

Nothing larger than a mini van/ SUV will be permitted: no buses, limos, shuttles, RVs, etc.

PONCE CITY MARKET TO HOST FESTIVE HAPPENINGS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/6/23

Lineup includes a Winter Solstice Celebration featuring Ebenezer Baptist Church Choir & Callanwolde School of Dance, Misfit DIY Wrapping Co., Saturdays with Santa Activations, Festive Pop-Ups, The Roof’s Skate the Sky, Igloos & Noon Year’s Eve Party, and More

Ponce City Market will celebrate the most wonderful time of year with merry happenings for everyone. Festivities throughout the holiday season include:

MISFIT DIY WRAPPING CO. & MISFIT MAKERS WORKSHOPS:

Misfit DIY Wrapping Co. (Saturdays & Sundays, Dec. 2-17 & Thurs.-Sat., Dec. 21-23, Noon-7pm) – Come one, come all and stop by Misfit DIY Wrapping Co. to jazz up gifts for giving! Open from noon-7pm on Saturdays and Sundays December 2-17 plus December 21-23, guests will be able to wrap gifts purchased at PCM with a misfit assortment of paper, ribbon and doo-dads at Ponce City Market’s do-it-yourself wrapping and decorating factory on the second floor of the Central Food Hall. Suggested donations will benefit RoleCall Theater, a non-profit, independent theater located at Ponce City Market. The theater produces and exhibits plays, films, and live comedy acts in its indoor and outdoor theater spaces at the community hub.

Misfit Makers Workshops with Archer Paper Goods (Mondays, Nov. 27 & Dec. 4, 11 & 18 from 5:30-7pm & 7:30-9pm) – Archer Paper Goods will host holiday workshops on Mondays during the holiday season at Misfit DIY Wrapping Co., located on the second floor of the Central Food Hall! Each date will offer two sessions, 5:30-7pm and 7:30-9pm, and themes will include envelope decorating, vintage postcard printing with Mirely Cabral of For The Press, and Cross-Stitched Christmas with Nicole LaBranche of Spot Colors. On December 18, Archer Paper Goods will host a free, drop-in Wrapping Paper Making workshop. Additional details about each workshop and registration info will be available soon on Archer Paper Goods’ website here

Misfit Makers Workshops with Scraplanta (Tuesdays, Dec. 5, 12 & 19, Noon-3pm & 4-7pm)  Scraplanta, a local non-profit on a mission to make Atlanta’s art scene more sustainable and accessible by collecting and reusing old art and classroom supplies, will host art workshops for all ages the first three Tuesdays in December at Misfit DIY Wrapping Co., located on the second floor of the Central Food Hall. Each week’s workshop – Gaudy Garlands on December 5, Unconventional Wreaths on December 23 and Toilet Paper Candles & Poinsettias on December 19 – will be free and open to the public from noon-3pm and 4-7pm. Check Scraplanta’s event calendar for registration and more details – coming soon.

SATURDAYS WITH SANTA:

Photos with Santa (Saturdays, Dec. 2-16, Noon-3pm) – Dash over to The Yard at Ponce City Market for a selfie with the jolly man in the red suit! Guests are invited to bring their own cameras to snap a photo with Santa. If the weather is frightful, Santa will be spreading holiday cheer on the second floor of the Central Food Hall next to The Village Retail and Bar Vegan.

Sips with Santa (Saturdays, Dec. 2-16, 3-4pm) – Old Saint Nick will enjoy a few festive drinks with market goers at Ponce City Market’s Bar Vegan (Dec. 2), Atrium (Dec. 9), and Excuse My French inside Citizen Supply (Dec. 16).

TRADITION THURSDAYS – LIGHTING CEREMONIES:

Little Candles Day Workshops & Lighting Ceremony (Thurs., Dec. 7) – A popular Colombian holiday celebration, Little Candles Day (Día de las Velitas) will be celebrated at Ponce City Market throughout the day on Thursday, December 7. The public is welcome to sign up for a candle making workshop at Linwood Court Candles & Decor (registration here) and stop by Misfit Wrapping Co., located on the second floor of the Central Food Hall, for a drop-in lantern making activity for all ages. Little Candles Day will culminate with a lantern lighting ceremony on The Yard at 6pm. 

Festival of Lights Menorah Lighting Ceremony (Thurs., Dec. 14, 6pm) – Join Ponce City Market and Chabad Intown for a traditional menorah lighting ceremony to celebrate the Festival of Lights! This year’s celebration will take place on The Yard with music, live entertainment, and refreshments.

Winter Solstice Celebration with Ebenezer Baptist Church Choir & Callanwolde School of Dance (Thurs., Dec. 21)

6:30pm: In celebration of the Winter Solstice on December 21, Ponce City Market will host a festive evening with a dance performance from Callanwolde School of Dance’s Pro Prime Movers, under the direction of Jerylann Warner, with music from the Ebenezer Baptist Church Choir & Band, under the direction of Dr. Patrice E. Turner. The performances will be located on the second floor of the Central Food Hall. 

7:30pm: Outside on The Yard, Lifecycles + Celebrations creator, Claudia Pineda, will conjure a magical evening with Solstice activities that will enchant what is possible for the winter cycle.

Kwanzaa Celebration (Thurs., Dec. 28, 6pm) – With a mission to support Black-owned brands seeking a home for their product, The Village Retail is a retail experience rooted in storytelling and upward mobility, and intersects cause, culture, retail and community. Details will be announced soon for a Kwanzaa celebration hosted by The Village Retail. 

ROASTING & TOASTING FIRE PITS ON THE YARD:

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays Nov. 24-Dec. 22, Noon-4pm – Get warm and cozy with your nearest and dearest outside on The Yard this holiday season! Guests will be able to gather ‘round Solo Stove fire pits and purchase s’more kits for toasting and hot cocoa for sipping. Tickets will be available here soon.

WEST “PEACE” PASSAGE:

Picture Yourself in the Passage (Ongoing Throughout December) – Ponce City Market will invite visitors to the shiny, sparkly, and all-lit-up West “PEACE” Passage to snap photos with a Tree of Peace. The festive photo area will be in the passage on the west side of the property, where Archer Papers Goods, gorjana, Sugarboo & Co, Allbirds, and Ponce Denim Co are located.

Letters to Santa with Archer Paper Goods (Ongong, Dec. 1-16) – Naughty or nice, Archer Paper Goods will welcome all who believe in Santa to write letters to the jolly man himself! Printed letters can be picked up at shops throughout Ponce City Market, including Paradiso Plant Shop, Collier Candy Co., and Archer Paper Goods, filled out then mailed to the North Pole. There will be a mailbox for letters to Santa at Archer Paper Goods, located in the West “Peace Passage” from December 1-16.

Stuff Your Stocking with Sugarboo & Co (Fri., Dec. 8, 15 & 22) – Sugarboo & Co. will host a stocking stuffer pop-up in the West “Peace” Passage on Friday afternoons on December 8, 15 and 22. Stockings will be available, and guests can fill each with goodies from the shop. Sips and treats will be provided while shopping.

FESTIVE EVENTS & POP-UPS:

The Blitzen Room at Biltong Bar (Opening Wed., Nov. 22) – Biltong Bar is “Up to Snow Good” as they transform their space for the fourth annual holiday pop-up: The Blitzen Room. The restaurant will feature swanky, vintage Christmas decor and seasonally themed cocktails from Chartreuse Hot Chocolate to Frozen Egg Nog.

The Village Retail Holiday Markets (Sat. & Sun., Nov. 25 & 26 and Sun., Dec. 3, 10 & 17 from Noon-5pm) – Kicking off the holiday season on Small Business Saturday, The Village Retail will host makers markets featuring products made by Black creators, located along the Atlanta BeltLine’s Eastside Trail at The Shed and in the Trestle at Ponce City Market. Attendees will be able to shop clothing, accessories, beauty, and more. Makers interested in being a vendor can apply here.

Holiday Social Bar on The Roof (Opening Fri., Nov. 17) – Just inside the tower lobby, the Holiday Social Bar will welcome Roof-goers with an over-the-top experience bursting with whimsical, floor-to-ceiling decor and holiday-inspired cocktails from an award-winning beverage team. Drinks include the likes of Sleigh Fuel, served hot with Old Grandad BIB Bourbon, Eggnog, Cinnamon & vanilla, and Christmas in Miami, made with Coconut Cartel Rum, mint, lime, bitter orange & angostura. No reservations required.

MixMas at 12 Cocktail Bar (Opening Fri., Nov. 17) – 12 Cocktail Bar will be home to a swanky holiday bar located in the tower on The Roof this holiday season, and every Friday night, they’ll host holiday themed cocktail classes. Reservations are highly recommended and can be booked at 12cocktailbar.com.

SKATE THE SKY:

Opening Fri., Nov. 24 – Back for a seventh year, The Roof at Ponce City Market invites guests to “Skate the Sky.” Ten stories above Ponce de Leon Avenue, the Rooftop Terrace will feature a 3,500-square-foot ice skating rink open seven days a week. All-access tickets will be $30 for adults and $22 for children, and include ice skating, unlimited gameplay, and admission to The Roof. Reservations will be available beginning November 1 and include 50 minutes of skating, skate rentals, and unlimited gameplay at Skyline Park. Skaters must be at least five years of age to skate, and individuals under 12 must be accompanied by an adult skater. Hours for the rink will be the same as The Roof’s regular operating hours, available here

IGLOOS ON THE ROOF:

Opening Fri., Nov. 24 – Cozy up this holiday season in private, six-person igloos on Ponce City Market’s Roof, located alongside the ice skating rink and at 9 Mile Station! Skate the Sky’s rink-side igloos will be available for all ages and 21+ parties (based on time and day). Premium igloos will open on weekdays starting at 3pm for all ages and come with a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine or round of hot chocolate. Skate the Sky igloos include general admission to The Roof, skate rentals, 50 minutes of skate time, and unlimited games and rides at Skyline Park (when available). Reservations are now available here.

After ice skating guests are invited to Après Skate at Nine Mile Station. This holiday season, 9 Mile Station will transform into a Swiss woodland chalet with cozy igloos overlooking the skyline of Atlanta. The restaurant igloos will offer full-service dining, plus general admission to The Roof and unlimited games and rides at Skyline Park. Reservations for 9 Mile Station igloos are now available for booking here.

NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS ON THE ROOF:

Noon Year’s Eve Celebration (Sat., Dec. 31, 10am-3pm)  Skyline Park will host an all-ages, family-friendly celebration to ring in 2023 as guests countdown to Noon. All-Access tickets include admission and gameplay, and can be pre-purchased online here or at the door.

New Year’s Eve Dinner at 9 Mile Station (Sat., Dec. 31, 4pm–10pm) – 9 Mile Station will offer an unforgettable prix fixe dinner available for guests who book a holiday igloo or table at the restaurant to ring in the new year. Reservations can be made here.

Ponce City Market will be closed on Thanksgiving Day (November 23, 2023) and Christmas Day (December 25, 2023). Shops will close at 6pm on November 22 and December 24 and 31. For the latest on holiday happenings, please view Ponce City Market’s events calendar here.

KICK OFF THE 2022 HOLIDAY SEASON WITH VININGS’ OLDEST HOLIDAY TRADITION

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/13/22

Thursday, Dec 1 6-8pm

Usher in the happiest time of year at the 2022 Annual Vinings Jubilee Christmas Tree Lighting at Paces Properties’ Vinings Jubilee, taking place 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 1 at the Tower Stage. The annual event transforms Vinings Jubilee into a holiday wonderland for the entire family to enjoy and is free for all to attend.
 
“The Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Vinings Jubilee is one of our favorite events to host each year,” said David Cochran, CEO of Paces Properties. “For 37 years, we’ve welcomed families and friends as they come together from across Atlanta, reminding all of us that this season is best spent surrounded by loved ones. For many, this is a holiday tradition that is looked forward to every year and we’re thrilled to be able to host the event once again.”
 
For guests, we hope you’ve been nice and not naughty, because Santa Claus always makes an appearance at the beloved holiday event. While his reindeer keep Mrs. Claus company at the North Pole, Santa will have his bag of gifts, his list checked twice, and will be available for photo opportunities throughout the evening. Of course, Santa will also come prepared with other activities for the whole family to enjoy – ornament decorating, balloon artists, face painting, a live puppet show, and even a train ride are all on the night’s cheery agenda. Plus, there will be take-home puppet packs provided by the Center for Puppetry Arts.
 
As any Christmas-lover knows, “the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear,” and the Vinings Jubilee Christmas Tree Lighting is no exception. The evening will include classic Christmas carols performed by singing elves, Whitefield Academy Jazz band and the Campbell Middle School Chorus. Before the celebrations begin, stop in for a bite or a sweet treat from one of Vinings’ delicious eateries which include Another Broken Egg Café, Café at Pharr, SOHO, Paces & Vine, Mellow Mushroom, Stockyard Burgers, Southern Baked Pie Company and Cold Stone Creamery.
 
For more information, follow along on Vinings Jubilee’s Facebook and Instagram.

CELEBRATE THE MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON AT THE BATTERY ATLANTA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 12/6/21

Cobb County’s fan-favorite destination offers Santa photos, restaurant specials a holiday movie and more

Tis the season! Cobb County’s year-round live, work, play destination The Battery Atlanta has planned a festive lineup of holiday events for the whole family! From an outdoor movie night with “How the Grinch stole Christmas” to family photo taken with Santa Claus, the festive fun never ends. Coca Cola Roxy and Park Bench also offer a wide range of performers throughout the month.

Santa Paws Event presented by Truist

Friday, Dec. 2, 9, and 16 from 4-8 p.m.

Santa Claus is coming to town! Every Friday evening, four-legged family members can have their picture taken St. Nick.

Santa’s Post Office presented by Truist

Fridays-Sundays in December and the week of Dec. 20

Little ones are invited to bring their handwritten letters to Santa – postage not required – in person at his official Atlanta outpost. Santa’s helpers will take care of the rest!

New Year’s Eve Bash Presented by Xfinity

Friday, Dec. 31 from 6 p.m. – midnight

Geared for the kiddos, the Early Innings celebration will begin at 6 p.m. and includes music from The Lucky Band – who were named ‘THE face of kindie music’ by the Washington Post. Following the performance, families will enjoy a countdown to an inflatable balloon drop at 8 p.m. Adult guests looking to ring in the New Year on a later note can enjoy Late Innings, beginning at 9 p.m. with live music from fan favorite The 12 South Band out of Nashville, Tennessee. The evening will close with a midnight countdown featuring an unforgettable fireworks and confetti display over Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta.

Outdoor Activities:

Xfinity Fall Movie Series

Friday evenings at 7 p.m.

Families and friends can enjoy a movie under the stars located at the Plaza Green! Continuing through December, the community will discover family-friendly films.

  • How the Grinch Stole Christmas
    Friday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m.

Select Retail and Restaurant Promotions:

Free Pizza Mondays at CRU Food & Wine Bar
Enjoy any pizza with a purchase of your favorite wine!

Half-off bar bites at Silverspot Cinema
Indulge in different shareables from Munday-Thursday all day.

Wing Crush Wednesdays at Terrapin Taproom
The eatery offers 20% off on smoked wings!

Girls Night Out at Sports & Social
Calling all the ladies! Enjoy $6 House Margaritas, Half=Off Appetizers, $5 Vizzy Hard Seltzers & 1/2 Select Wine Bottles.

Flight Fridays at Terrapin Taproom
Start your weekend with $2 off beer flights all day with dining in!

Park Bench Events:
The popular dueling piano bar and live music venue has announced a line-up of live shows this month, in addition to its Karaoke Wednesday at Park Bench programming. Visit parkbenchbattery.com/calendar for more information.

  • Rocking 3 man Piano Show
    Saturday, Dec. 18 at 7 p.m.
  • New Year’s Eve Party
    Friday, Dec. 31 at 9 p.m.

Coca-Cola Roxy Events:

The Battery Atlanta’s iconic concert venue is gearing up for a full variety of live performances! This month, Coca-Cola Roxy brings a wide range of music to the stage for guests to discover. Review enhanced venue safety guidelines here.

  • Midland- The Last Resort Tour-
    Saturday, Dec. 11 at 8 p.m.
  • Chelsea Handler
    Friday, Dec. 17 at 8 p.m.
  • Yacht Rock Revue: Holiday Spectacular
    Saturday, Dec. 18 at 8 p.m.
  • Polo G
    Sunday, Dec. 19 at 8 p.m.
  • Jack Harlow Crème De La Crème Tour  
    Tuesday, Dec. 28 at 8 p.m.

An up-to-date list of restaurant and retailer happenings is available on the website. Details and hours of operation are subject to change. Visitors are asked to follow public safety guidelines while on property.

PONCE CITY MARKET ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR MERRY MISFIT HOLIDAY SEASON

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/18/20

Featuring Misfit Wrapping Co., Fireside Roasting & Toasting Pods on The Yard, a Menorah Lighting Celebration, Holiday Pop-Ups, The Roof’s Skate the Sky, Igloos & Noon Year’s Eve Party & More

 

Ponce City Market will celebrate the most joyful time of year with mistiful happenings throughout the holiday season. Festive fun will be all around with the Misfit Wrapping Co.’s gift-wrapping conveyor belt, fireside roasting and toasting pods on The Yard, a Drive-In Menorah Lighting Ceremony & Chanukah Film, holiday pop-ups and celebrations, and The Roof’s Skate the Sky, Igloos and Noon Year’s Eve Party.

Details on this year’s festivities include:

MISFIT WRAPPING CO.:

Saturdays & Sundays, Nov. 28 – Dec. 20 – Come one, come all and stop by Misfit Wrapping Co. to jazz up gifts for giving! From 11am-6pm on Saturdays and noon-6pm on Sundays, guests will be able to bring holiday gifts purchased at PCM to a jolly assembly line on the second floor of the Central Food Hall and watch as items make their merry way down a conveyor belt and are decorated by a team of Misfit gift wrappers with complimentary, cheery wrapping. During a final inspection, each gift will be given a stamp of approval before making its triumphant return to the rightful gift-giver.

Plus, Misfit Wrapping Co. is teaming up with Creating Connected Communities (CCC) – a nonprofit organization whose mission is to bring life-enhancing programs to children in need by empowering teens to become engaged community leads and volunteers – to gather and wrap holiday gifts for donation all season long. As part of the nonprofit’s annual holiday program, Amy’s Holiday Party, PCM shoppers can purchase items for donation around the property, have them gift wrapped at Misfit Wrapping Co. from noon-6pm on Saturdays and Sundays, and delivered by CCC to 40 different charities benefiting homeless, foster and refugee children.

FIRESIDE ROASTING & TOASTING PODS ON THE YARD:

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, Nov. 27 – Dec. 20 – Get warm and cozy with your nearest and dearest outside on The Yard this holiday season! Guests will be able to gather ‘round toasty fires and enjoy s’mores at socially distanced fireside pods. The Firepods will accommodate small groups and can be booked by the hour, and s’more kits and reservations (available beginning in late November at www.poncecitymarket.com) are complimentary. The open-air firepods will be sanitized thoroughly between seatings and will be available from 5-9pm on Fridays, 2-9pm on Saturdays and noon-6pm on Sundays.

FESTIVE POP-UPS:

The Blitzen Room at Biltong Bar, Opening Tues., Nov. 24 – Biltong Bar at Ponce City Market is “Up to Snow Good” as they transform their space into their second annual holiday pop-up: The Blitzen Room. The restaurant will feature swanky, vintage Christmas decor and seasonally themed cocktails from Chartreuse Hot Chocolate to Frozen Egg Nog.

Holiday Social Bar on The Roof, Opening Fri., Nov. 27 – Just inside the tower lobby, the Holiday Social Bar will welcome Roof-goers with an over-the-top experience bursting with whimsical decor and holiday-inspired drinks. Check out the drink menu here.

MixMas at 12 Cocktail Bar, Opening Fri., Nov. 27 – 12 Cocktail Bar is celebrating the season with a Mixmas cocktail menu, including drinks like “Sleigh Fuel” with bourbon, cinnamon, eggnog and coffee, and the “This Christmas I Gave You a Daiquiri,” made with dark rum, lime, pineapple, allspice and cherry. Reservations here are highly recommended.

Modern Mystic Shop’s Local Makers Holiday Pop-Up Series, Sat. & Sun., Nov. 21 – Dec. 20 – The metaphysical goods shop is spotlighting favorite local makers and creators with pop-ups throughout the holiday season. Each weekend, the series will provide curated collections from local, small-batch makers who share the same values as Modern Mystic Shop, with an emphasis on goods from women-identified and POC-owned businesses. Shoppers can expect to find jewelry, bath products, candles and more from vendors including local jewelry makers Kalua Rae and Dragonstone Malas, among others.

SustainAble Home Goods Holiday Gift Box Bar, Now Open – Shoppers can stop by the store throughout the season to create a curated gift box of handmade products made by local and global makers! Each box is $60 and comes with three pick-your-own items, from wellness products and kitchen essentials to gardening kits and so much more. Additional items can be added for $8 each.

PCM GOES INSIDE OUT HOLIDAY MARKET:

Sat., Dec. 12, Beginning at Noon – Bringing the best of PCM outdoors, the Holiday Market will feature holiday shopping, festive food and drink like hot chocolate and mulled cider, holiday entertainment and more as guests safely relax and spend some time outside.

DRIVE-IN MENORAH LIGHTING CEREMONY & CHANUKAH FILM:

Sun., Dec. 13 – Join Ponce City Market and Chabad Intown for a traditional menorah lighting ceremony and screening of a short Chanukah Film! This year’s celebration will take place in the parking lot by West Elm (alongside Glen Iris Drive and Ponce de Leon Ave), and guests are invited to park their cars and enjoy a BYO car picnic starting at 4:30pm. The brief film will begin at 5:30pm, followed by the Menorah Lighting Ceremony and a feature presentation at 6pm.

SKATE THE SKY:

Opening Fri., Nov. 27 – Back for a fourth year, The Roof at Ponce City Market invites guests to “Skate the Sky.” Ten stories above Ponce de Leon Avenue and overlooking Old Fourth Ward, the Rooftop Terrace will feature a 3,500-square-foot ice skating rink for all ages to enjoy seven days a week. Family hours will be every Saturday and Sunday from noon-3pm, and during this time, visitors can skate and sing along with The Roof’s resident Ice Queen. Starting at 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays, visitors 21 and over will be able to dance the night away to music spun by local DJs. Before or after skating, skaters can warm up at outdoor fire pits at the woodland forest-themed Nine Mile Station or play mini golf at Skyline Park donning a faux fur coat provided by The Roof.

Reservations can be booked here. Ice skating is $15 for adults and $7 for kids ages 5-12 (plus admission to The Roof), and includes 50-minutes of skating, ice skate rentals and unlimited gameplay at Skyline Park. Skaters must be at least five years of age to skate, and individuals under 12 must be accompanied by an adult skater. Hours for the rink will be the same as The Roof’s regular operating hours.

IGLOOS ON THE ROOF:

Opening Fri., Nov. 27 – Cozy up this holiday season in life-size, private igloos on Ponce City Market’s Roof! Available by reservation only, igloos located alongside the ice skating rink and at 9 Mile Station seat up to six guests, allowing small groups to have an intimate and socially distanced experience with an amazing view. Family-friendly igloo experiences alongside the ice skating rink are available on Saturday and Sunday mornings from noon-3pm and include a special kid’s menu. Guests 21+ can also enjoy food and beverages – think hot cocktails, champagne and large format cocktails – in rink-side igloos until 8pm Monday through Friday, 9:30pm on Saturday and 7pm on Sunday. At 9 Mile Station, the restaurant will transform into a woodland forest with cozy igloos and outdoor seating areas overlooking views of Atlanta. Restaurant igloos will offer guests 21 and up full dining service.

Reservations for all igloo experiences are now available at www.poncecityroof.com and include general admission to The Roof, skate rentals, 50 minutes of skate time and unlimited games and rides at Skyline Park (when available). Rink-side igloos rentals are $175 for two hours, and 9 Mile Station igloos are $125 Sunday through Thursday and $175 on Fridays and Saturday for two-and-a-half hour reservations. All igloos will be sanitized manually and with fogging technology between occupants.

NOON YEAR’S EVE ON THE ROOF:

Thurs., Dec. 31, 10am-3pm – Save the date for The Roof’s fourth annual Noon Year’s Eve! Skyline Park and 9 Mile Station will host a family-friendly celebration for parents and children of all ages to ring in 2021 as guests count down to noon. Tickets are $15 for all ages (3 years and under are free) and will be sold day-of at the door; no advance tickets needed.

Ponce City Market will be closed on Thanksgiving Day (November 26, 2020) and Christmas Day (December 25, 2020).

NETHERWORLD IS BACK WITH TWO SPECIAL EVENTS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 12/1/19
A Haunted Holiday Returns December 14 Featuring a Scary Full Production Haunted House Fueled with Yuletide Horror + A Lights on Tour of NETHERWORLD Debuts December 28th – The Behind-the-Scenes Event Fans Have Been Asking For!

The twisted minds behind America’s top-rated haunt, NETHERWORLD Haunted House, are gearing up for two incredible special events this December. On Saturday, December 14, A Haunted Holiday will feature a yuletide takeover of NETHERWORLD’s 2019 main attraction, NIGHT OF THE GORGON, a festive holiday midway, a gift shop filled with creepy seasonal goodies, and a special laser tag event called MUTANT MADNESS that will be held inside of the COLD BLOODED haunt. Then, for the first time in their new Stone Mountain location on Saturday, December 28, NETHERWORLD will reopen for a Lights on Tour featuring both NIGHT OF THE GORGON and COLD BLOODED. It will be a never-before-seen look behind the curtain of the nation’s most legendary haunted attraction and the ultimate gift for any haunt fanatic!

First up on Saturday, December 14, NETHERWORLD presents A Haunted Holiday! Six guests will enter the attraction and will be led on a rope by a ghostly spirit through a full production of NIGHT OF THE GORGON featuring seasonally inspired monsters, holiday themed scenes, and perhaps most importantly… only one group will occupy a given space at a given time! Then, unexpectedly, your guide will vanish, leaving your group to survive the last portion of the haunt without their protection! This carefully paced event is a great way to experience the house without the larger crowds you might encounter during October. Once you exit the attraction you will be able to enjoy NETHERWORLD’s holiday themed midway and gift shop chock full of great Christmas gifts for the lover of spooky things in your life.

This night also features a separately ticketed event called MUTANT MADNESS. Guests will enter the COLD BLOODED attraction armed with advanced laser tag equipment and blast their way through hideous creatures on a quest to see who will get the best score.  But it’s not that easy – when the monsters attack, you need to blast them fast or they can damage your weapon and knock you out of the game. Tickets for MUTANT MADNESS are $15 each and will only be available in the NETHERWORLD Gift Shop on a first come, first served basis. Individual tickets for A Haunted Holiday are $25.95 online.  If any tickets remain, they will be available at the door for $28. Or if you have a posse, round them up to take advantage of a limited number of discounted six-pack bundles, available online for $125.95. Timed ticket slots include 6:30pm, 7:00pm, 7:30pm, 8:00pm, 8:30pm and 9:00pm.

Then on Saturday, December 28, experience NETHERWORLD as never before with an extremely limited, reserved entry Lights on Tour. You and a very small group of guests will be taken through NIGHT OF THE GORGON and COLD BLOODED with the house lights turned on and the haunt effects turned off – exposing all the details that have helped make NETHERWORLD the highly lauded attraction that it is today. Guests will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will explain the storylines and production details behind the sets, and each person will receive a free souvenir printed photo to commemorate the experience. Additionally, for the first time in NETHERWORLD history, there will even be multiple opportunities to stop and take pictures inside the actual haunts.  Don’t miss this rare chance to go behind the screams… the perfect gift for any haunted house enthusiast!

“We’ve been thinking about doing a premium small group event for a long time now,” said Ben Armstrong, NETHERWORLD Haunted House Co-Creator. “This is a gift from us to the true haunt fans… the ones who have wanted to see the haunt with the lights on for years! Coupled with an informative guided tour and photo stops along the way, this is a great way to really understand the layers of detail put into this place!”

NETHERWORLD’s massive entertainment complex in Stone Mountain has provided room for endless screams, memories and attractions including two haunted houses, four year-round escape rooms, a year-round Laser Adventure Battle Arena, a monster museum, an expanded midway experience, an elaborate gift shop and more. With 2020 just around the corner, patrons can expect nonstop thrilling chills into the New Year and beyond!

ATLANTA-AREA SIMON CENTERS RING IN THE SEASON WITH HOLIDAY EVENTS 2019

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/10/19

Families invited to get festive with activities at Lenox Square, Mall of Georgia, North Georgia Premium Outlets, Phipps Plaza and Town Center at Cobb

Atlanta-area communities can soon get into the spirit of the holidays at Lenox Square, Mall of Georgia, North Georgia Premium Outlets, Phipps Plaza and Town Center at Cobb. Throughout November and December, the five Simon centers are decking the halls with Santa photos, tree lightings, festive family-friendly events and even blood drives to give back.

Lenox Square

  • Photos with Santa/Macy’s Court: November 1 – December 24
    Families are invited to capture special holiday moments with the jolliest man in town! For hours and Santa’s full schedule, visit simon.com/lenoxsquare. Guests can save time and avoid the line with Santa’s Fast Pass!

    • Pet Photos with Santa/Macy’s Court: December 8 from 7:30-9:30 p.m.
      Calling all festive, four-legged friends! On December 8, families may bring their pets for an unforgettable picture with Santa. Main mall entrance near Nike (no reptiles or exotic animals permitted).
    • Caring Santa/Macy’s Court: December 1 from 8-10 a.m.
      ​​​​​​​Caring Santa is a private photo event designed for children and young adults with special needs and their families. Lenox Square has made adjustments to the environment to support the sensory, physical and other developmental needs of children of all abilities for this special event. Caring Santa will be held during private mall hours to provide a more sensory-friendly environment. Guests are encouraged to enter through the Main Mall Entrance by Nike. Advanced registration on simon.com/caringsanta.
    • Macy’s Pink Pig: November 2 – January 5 *closed Thanksgiving + Christmas*
      Atlanta’s most renowned holiday tradition! Children can climb aboard Priscilla the Pink Pig for a train ride through a life-sized storybook filled with friends and fun beneath the signature 170-foot, 1950’s themed Pink Pig tent. Tickets will be available at the Macy’s Pink Pig kiosk between Abercrombie & Fitch and Godiva on the Upper Level. For the full schedule, visit simon.com/lenoxsquare.
    • Santa’s Celebration: November 2 from 10 a.m. – noon
      Guests of Lenox Square are invited to visit Macy’s Court and join Santa and his elves for story time, snacks, giveaways and more to help kick of the most wonderful time of the year! Register for this fun filled day on Eventbrite.
    • Macy’s Great Tree Lighting: November 24 at 7 p.m.
      The 72nd annual Great Tree Lighting event will feature live musical performances, holly jolly entertainment and fun! The holiday spectacular will conclude with a festive fireworks finale set to fan-favorite music. The Great Tree will be on display November 24 – January 7.
    • The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program: November 22 – December 6
      Lenox Square will host The Salvation Army’s annual Angel Tree program, which provides new clothing and toys for children of families in need. This year’s Angel Tree will be located on the Plaza Level near Urban Outfitters. Representatives will be available Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
    • Marcus Autism Center Quiet Shopping Hour: December 1 from 11 a.m. – noon
      Lenox Square will host a “quiet hour” with the Marcus Autism Center for families with children on the Autism Spectrum Sunday, December 1 from 11 a.m. – noon. At participating stores, dimmed lights, muted music and reduced crowd sizes will provide shoppers on the Autism spectrum with a more comfortable and subdued shopping experience.

Mall of Georgia

  • Photos with Santa/Belk Court: November 1 – December 24
    Families can visit jolly St. Nick from November 1 – December 24 and join Papa Elf for a special appearance at Santa’s workshop on December 1, 7, 14 and 21! Visit simon.com/mallofgeorgia for Santa’s daily schedule. Save time and avoid the line by reserving a magical moment with Santa’s Fast Pass.

    • ​​​​​​​Pet Photos with Santa/Belk Court: November 24 from 7-9 p.m. and December 8 from 8-10 p.m.
      Pet parents are invited to get the paw-fect photo of their four-legged friends with the jolly man in red! Use the mall entrance between Belk and Von Maur. Reptiles and exotic animals are not permitted.
    • ​​​​​​​Caring Santa/Belk Court: December 1 from 8-10:30 a.m.
      Caring Santa is a private photo event designed for children and young adults with special needs and their families. Mall of Georgia has made adjustments to the environment to support the sensory, physical and other developmental needs of children of all abilities for this special event. Caring Santa will be held during private mall hours to provide a more sensory-friendly environment. Guests are encouraged to use the mall entrance between Belk and Von Maur. Advanced registration on simon.com/caringsanta.
  • Marcus Autism Center Quiet Shopping Hour: December 1 from 11 a.m. – noon
    Mall of Georgia will host a “quiet hour” with the Marcus Autism Center for families with children on the Autism Spectrum Sunday, December 1 from 11 a.m. – noon. At participating stores, dimmed lights, muted music and reduced crowd sizes will provide shoppers on the Autism spectrum with a more comfortable and subdued shopping experience. This will follow the Caring Santa event from 8-10:30 a.m.
  • Tree Lighting: November 9 at 3 p.m.
    St. Nick kicks off the merry season at 3 p.m. in The Village! Families can enjoy holiday-themed performances from a DJ; live entertainment by The Xperience; the annual 50-foot Christmas tree lighting; visits from Santa and Papa Elf; a special Movie Under the Stars presentation of “The Grinch;” festive activities and more! Chairs and blankets and welcome and guests are encouraged to come early, grab a seat, sip a cocktail and celebrate the start of a cheerful season!
  • Disney Holiday Play Date: November 23 from noon – 2 p.m.
    Disney Junior spreads cheer in JCPenney Court, with festive activities from noon – 2 p.m.!
  • Red Cross Blood Drives: November 29 – December 1 from noon – 5 p.m.; December 26 – 28 from noon – 5 p.m. Trained Red Cross staff will collect donations from noon-5 p.m. in the Upper Level near Dick’s Sporting Goods. Visit redcrossblood.org to schedule an appointment in advance, and enter code ‘moga’ for Mall of Georgia.
  • The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program: November 22 – December 6
    The Salvation Army will again visit Mall of Georgia for its annual holiday Angel Tree program, providing new clothing and toys for children of families in need on the lower level near Gap. Representatives will be available Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Sounds of the Season: December 5 and 6 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
    Local community and school groups will lead festive holiday performances in the Dining Pavilion to get shoppers in the spirit of the season.
  • Holiday Giftwrap: December 4-24
    Shoppers looking to save some time to spend with family can have their gifts wrapped in JCPenney Court!

North Georgia Premium Outlets

  • Photos with Santa/Food Pavilion: November 15 – December 24
    Families are in for a holiday treat with the brand-new Santa photo experience at Atlanta’s premier outlet shopping destination! For Santa’s day-to-day schedule, please visit premiumoutlets.com/outlet/north-georgia. Save time and avoid the line by reserving a magical moment with Santa’s Fast Pass.

    • Pet Photos with Santa/Food Pavilion: December 8 from 7-9 p.m.
      Pets need photos with the jolly man in red, too! Four-legged best friends are invited to get the paw-fect photo with Santa. Food pavilion main entrance (reptiles and exotic animals are not permitted).
  • Get Holiday Ready: November 1-17
    It’s never too early to begin shopping for the most wonderful time of the year! Fashionistas are invited to get advance access to the best deals on the season’s hottest gifts – including clothing, shoes, accessories, home goods and more.
  • The Ultimate Holiday Outlet Sale: December 6-24
    North Georgia Premium Outlets is taking the guesswork out of gifting during The Ultimate Holiday Outlet Sale! The center will offer a digital savings guide providing even more deals on over 140 premier brands – perfect for last minute gift-giving.

Phipps Plaza

  • Marcus Autism Center Quiet Shopping Hour: December 1 from noon-1 p.m.
    Phipps Plaza will host a “quiet hour” with the Marcus Autism Center for families with children on the Autism Spectrum Sunday, December 1 from noon-1 p.m. At participating stores, dimmed lights, muted music and reduced crowd sizes will provide shoppers on the Autism spectrum with a more comfortable and subdued shopping experience.
  • Sounds of the Season/Holiday Community Day: December 7 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
    As part of Phipps Plaza’s Tenth Annual Holiday Community Day, families are invited to celebrate the season with a day of live entertainment from local Atlanta organizations in Monarch Court.

Town Center at Cobb 

  • Santa Arrival Celebration: November 1 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
    Santa is riding his sleigh to Town Center at Cobb for the county’s best Santa Arrival Celebration! Shoppers can gather outside the Main Entrance to the Food Court between Belk and JCPenney at 6 p.m. to welcome Saint Nick with a festive parade of reindeer, other special guests, an enchanted snowfall and even photos with live reindeer! Activities include face painting and giveaways; and photos will be available from 6-9 p.m. in Center Court. The first 200 people to visit with Kris Kringle will receive a special gift courtesy of Town Center at Cobb. This is sponsored by WellStar Pediatrics.
  • Photos with Santa: November 2 – December 24
    Say “jingle bells” and smile with the jolly Mr. Claus himself! The man in the red suit will be stationed at holiday headquarters in Center Court for photo opportunities. Check simon.com/towncenteratcobb for his schedule! Save time and avoid the line by reserving a magical moment with Santa’s Fast Pass.

    • Pet Photos with Santa/Center Court: November 24 from 6-8 p.m. and December 15 from 8-10 p.m.
      On November 24 and December 15, shoppers can bring their beloved furry friends to pose with Santa Claus! Food Court’s main entrance between Belk and JCPenney; no reptiles or exotic animals will be permitted.Caring Santa/Center Court: December 1 from 10 a.m.-noon and December 8 from 9-11 a.m.
      Caring Santa is a private event designed for children and young adults with special needs to have a photo opportunity with Santa in a quieter setting along with their families. Town Center at Cobb will make adjustments to the environment to support the sensory, physical and other developmental needs of children of all abilities. Register online at simon.com/caringsanta to attend.
  • Marcus Autism Center Quiet Shopping Hour: December 1 from noon-1 p.m.
    Town Center at Cobb will host a “quiet hour” with the Marcus Autism Center for families with children on the Autism Spectrum Sunday, December 1 from noon-1 p.m. At participating stores, dimmed lights, muted music and reduced crowd sizes will provide shoppers on the Autism spectrum with a more comfortable and subdued shopping experience. This will immediately follow the Caring Santa event from 10 a.m. – noon.
  • The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program: November 22 – December 7
    Town Center at Cobb will once again host The Salvation Army for the annual Angel Tree program, which provides new clothing and toys for children of families in need. This year’s Angel Tree will be located in the Upper Level Center Court, and representatives will be available Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Red Cross Blood Drives: November 27 and 29 from noon-5 p.m.; December 22-23 from noon-5 p.m.
    Join in the spirit of giving at Town Center at Cobb’s annual holiday blood drives. Trained Red Cross staff will be collecting donations on the Upper Level JCPenney Wing. Visit redcrossblood.org to schedule an appointment in advance, and enter the code ‘tcac’ for Town Center at Cobb.
  • Sounds of the Season: November 29 – December 23
    Local organizations and schools will lead holiday performances throughout the season for shoppers. Visit simon.com/towncenteratcobb or facebook.com/towncenteratcobb for a list of scheduled appearances.
  • Holiday Giftwrap: December 5-24
    Newly purchased gifts can be wrapped at the Oakwood Gift Wrap booth – located on the Lower Level Macy’s wing – and have them complete by the time they are finished shopping. Visit simon.com/towncenteratcobb for schedule and pricing
  • PJ Party with Santa/Disney Jr. Holiday Event/Upper Level JCPenney Wing: December 7 from 1-3 p.m.
    ‘Tis the season to cozy up in holiday PJs! Town Center at Cobb’s PJ Party welcomes all kids on the nice list to enjoy activities, games and giveaways. During a special appearance, Kris Kringle will read a story to all of the good little boys and girls! For more information: simon.com/towncenteratcobb. This event is sponsored by WellStar Pediatrics.