Hey, Crescent City crew! If you’re eyeing a quick escape from the bayou vibes to the bustling heart of the South this Thanksgiving weekend, Atlanta’s got your back.

With crisp fall air (think highs in the low 60s°F—pack a light jacket), the Peach State’s capital is kicking off the holiday season with a mix of high-energy sports, twinkling lights, festive markets, and family-friendly spectacles.

Whether you’re dodging Black Friday crowds or just craving some Georgia soul, here’s our roundup of the coolest happenings from Friday, Nov. 28, through Sunday, Nov. 30. Pro tip: Traffic can be fierce post-turkey, so hop on MARTA or snag a rideshare.

Friday, Nov. 28: Kick Off with Gridiron Glory and Holiday Magic

Start your weekend with a bang—literally, if you’re into fireworks.

Invesco QQQ Atlanta Gridiron Classic: Georgia Tech vs. Georgia

Invesco QQQ Atlanta Gridiron Classic: Georgia Tech vs. Georgia


Nothing says “rivalry renewed” like the Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate matchup between the Yellow Jackets and Bulldogs. This college football clash at Mercedes-Benz Stadium promises packed stands, tailgate energy, and post-game fireworks.

Kickoff at 3:30 p.m.; tickets start at $50. It’s a perfect intro to Atlanta’s sports scene—think brass bands and that electric Southern roar. ticketmaster.com Grab a bite from nearby food trucks slinging BBQ and craft brews.

Atlanta Hawks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

hawks peachtree edition jerseys

Basketball fever hits State Farm Arena at 7:30 p.m. as the Hawks tip off against the Cavs in the Emirates NBA Cup’s knockout round.

It’s prime for hoops heads. Tickets from $40; expect halftime hype with local artists. If you’re traveling light, the arena’s connected to MARTA’s Peachtree Center station.

Macy’s Great Tree Lighting at Lenox Square

Macy's Great Tree Lighting at Lenox Square

Head to Buckhead for this free tradition: A 70-foot Norwegian spruce lights up with live performances, carolers, and fireworks around 7 p.m. (gates open at 5 p.m.). It’s Atlanta’s answer to Rockefeller Center—festive, family-oriented, and oh-so-Instagrammable. Pair it with early holiday shopping at the mall’s luxury spots.

Saturday, Nov. 29: Culture, Crafts, and Classic Cinema

Shake off the feast with artsy vibes and nostalgic fun.

Piedmont Park Holiday Gift Market

Atlanta’s “front yard” turns into a winter wonderland from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Browse 100+ artisan vendors for handmade jewelry, local art, and seasonal eats like hot cider and gourmet popcorn. Live acoustic sets and a kids’ play area keep it lively—free entry, pet-friendly, and right by the park’s iconic skyline views. Ideal for unique souvenirs to bring back to NOLA. roughdraftatlanta.com +1

Georgia Festival of Trees

At Gas South Convention Center (Duluth, about 30 minutes north), this anti-trafficking fundraiser dazzles with 500+ decorated trees, live entertainment, kids’ crafts, and a silent auction. Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; tickets $15 adults, $8 kids. It’s heartfelt holiday cheer with a side of shopping—think gourmet gift vendors and photo ops galore. gosouthatlanta.com +1

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York in Concert

Relive Kevin’s NYC chaos with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra playing John Williams’ score live at Symphony Hall (8 p.m.). Tickets $35–$125; it’s a cozy, laugh-out-loud evening for all ages—perfect if you’re missing that ’90s nostalgia after your own family feast. gosouthatlanta.com +1

The Nutcracker Performances

Multiple troupes bring Tchaikovsky’s ballet to life: Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theatre at Jennie T. Anderson Theatre (Marietta, various shows) or Northeast Atlanta Ballet at Gas South Theatre (Duluth). Tickets $25–$50; from graceful solos to Sugar Plum magic, it’s a timeless holiday kickoff. gosouthatlanta.com

Sunday, Nov. 30: Wrap Up with Lights and Laughter

Ease into the week with glowing wonders and feel-good tunes.

IllumiNights: A Lantern Festival at Zoo Atlanta

From 5–10 p.m., wander 100+ illuminated animal lanterns and festive displays—think glowing pandas and starry paths. Tickets $30 adults, $25 kids; it’s magical after dark, with s’mores stations and seasonal treats. A stone’s throw from downtown, it’s Atlanta’s zoo reimagined as a holiday dreamscape. gosouthatlanta.com

Home Alone 2 Encore and Dave Koz & Friends Christmas

Catch the symphony’s second screening (3 p.m.) or smooth sax vibes from jazz maestro Dave Koz at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre (8 p.m.). Tickets $45+; both ooze holiday spirit—pick based on your mood: chaotic comedy or chill crooners.

The Outsiders Musical

Closing weekend at Fox Theatre (2 p.m. matinee): This Broadway hit turns S.E. Hinton’s teen tale into a toe-tapping rock musical. Tickets $40–$100; raw emotion meets killer choreography—great for a reflective Sunday outing.

Atlanta’s Thanksgiving weekend blends high-octane action with cozy cheer, making it an easy hop from New Orleans (direct flights under an hour!). For more deets or last-minute tickets, hit up DiscoverAtlanta.com. Safe travels, y’all—laissez les bon temps rouler, Georgia-style.

Traffic tip: Use MARTA for Midtown spots. What’s your pick? Drop us a line in the comments! Stay tuned for more updates.

SEE MORE THINGS TO DO ON A SUNDAY IN ATLANTA

Immerse Yourself In Your Atlanta

Atlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!