As the holiday season sparkles into full swing, the Atlanta BeltLine is transforming into a winter wonderland of runs, romps, and revelry. With crisp December air and twinkling lights lining the paths, this Atlanta weekend offers the perfect mix of active adventures, pet-friendly festivities, and merry bar-hopping for locals and visitors alike.
Festive Fun on the BeltLine: Holiday Weekend Activities, December 13-14, 2025
Whether you’re lacing up for a race, bundling up your furry friend for a crawl, or donning your ugliest sweater, the BeltLine has something to jingle all your bells. Here’s our roundup of can’t-miss events to keep your holiday spirit — and steps — high.
Saturday, December 13: Race, Craft, and Crawl Your Way Through the Holidays
Kick off the weekend with a dash of holiday cheer that’s equal parts fitness and fun. The White Elephant 5K/10K/Half Marathon takes over the Eastside Trail starting at 8:30 a.m. from New Realm Brewing Co.
Runners and walkers of all levels are invited to this festive twist on a classic gift exchange, where mystery shirts and post-race surprises await.
The scenic loop along the BeltLine promises stunning views of decked-out neighborhoods, and with distances for every pace, it’s an ideal way to burn off those cookie calories. Registration is still open via RunSignUp — early birds get the best swag.
For a more relaxed morning, head to the Grant Park Gateway at 10 a.m. for a free Zumba/Hip Hop Cardio session.
Led by energetic instructors, this high-energy dance class will have you grooving to holiday hits under the open sky, blending cardio with community vibes. No experience necessary — just bring your holiday spirit (and maybe a jingle bell or two).
Pet parents, rejoice: The Yappy Holidays Doggie Crawl returns from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. along the Eastside Trail, organized by BiteLines Atlanta Food Tours.
Your four-legged friend can feast on gourmet pup treats at pet-friendly spots, snap a photo with Santa, shop for holiday goodies, and even compete in a “Most Festive Furry” contest. Tickets are $39 per person (humans only — pups are free!) and include all the festive flair; snag yours on Eventbrite before they paw-sitively sell out.
As the day winds down, channel your inner eco-elf at Patagonia’s Krog Street store with Cards for the Climate from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
This free, family-friendly event invites you to craft thank-you cards for local nonprofits or pen wishlist letters to elected officials about climate action — all while sipping hot cocoa and browsing sustainable gear. It’s a heartwarming reminder that holidays can be merry and meaningful.
Evening plans? Dust off that thrift-store gem for the 11th Annual Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl, firing up at 5 p.m. from Brewdog Atlanta.
This BeltLine staple promises two holiday shots, a custom koozie, pro photos, and hopping between Inman Park haunts till midnight.
Tickets start at $20 on Eventbrite, with group discounts for squads of eight or more — because nothing says “season’s greetings” like tacky knits and toasty toasts.
Don’t forget the ongoing glow: Stroll by Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall at Mile Marker 925 for their dazzling holiday light display, complete with campfire s’mores and seasonal bites — the perfect nightcap after your adventures.
Sunday, December 14: Paws, Peace, and Post-Holiday Glow
Ease into Sunday with round two of the Yappy Holidays Doggie Crawl (same deets as Saturday: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Eastside Trail).
bringfido.com If Fido missed the fun yesterday or you’re craving more tail-wagging cheer, this repeat romp ensures every pup gets their holiday hurrah. Pro tip: Pair it with a leisurely BeltLine walk to spot pop-up markets and street performers adding impromptu carols.For two-legged twinkle-toers, the free Zumba/Hip Hop Cardio isn’t listed for Sunday, but keep an eye on the official BeltLine calendar for any last-minute wellness pop-ups.
Otherwise, embrace the post-Saturday recovery with a self-guided tour of the trail’s festive installations — from lit-up sculptures to vendor carts hawking hot cider and handmade ornaments.
As the year wraps (almost), reflect on the BeltLine’s magic with a sunset jog or bike ride. The paths will be buzzing with families, joggers, and holiday strollers, all under strings of lights that make every mile feel like a postcard.
Why the BeltLine Shines This Holiday Season
The Atlanta BeltLine isn’t just a trail — it’s the heartbeat of our city’s community spirit, connecting neighborhoods with 17 miles of green space that’s seen over 1.5 million visitors this year alone. December amps up the joy with these events, blending fitness, family, and frolic while supporting local causes like climate advocacy and animal welfare.
Weather forecast? Mostly sunny with highs in the low 50s — bundle up, but leave room for that ugly sweater.For the latest updates, check beltline.org/events.
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