Catch up on the latest events with the above video, or read along bellow for the full calendar, and be sure to check the weather.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Ellijay is buzzing with festive energy this December. From twinkling light displays to live music, holiday markets, and family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your curated guide to the best events happening in and around our mountain community.
A Glimmering Start to the Season
The holiday season continues shining bright with Holiday Lights of Ellijay! Open every evening from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Lions Club Fairgrounds, this massive display is perfect for a scenic stroll or a cozy, slow drive with the family.
Weekday & Weekend Happenings
Our local wineries, breweries, and venues are hosting a fantastic lineup:
- Gilmer County Commisioners Work Session: On December 10th (9 PM – 10 PM), Gilmer County government is holding a work session for the board of commisioners at the Community Center on Industrial Boulevard.
- Grapes and Ladders Open Mic: On December 11th (5 PM – 8 PM), Grapes and Ladders Vineyard is hosting an Open Mic night featuring… you! Come on and join in the fun.
- Grapes and Ladders Trivia Night: On December 12th (6 PM – 8 PM), Grapes and Ladders will be hosting a trivia night, fun for date nights or an fun start to the weekend!
- Cress Creek Farm Breakfast with Santa: On December 13th (9 AM – 11 AM) Cress Creek Farm is hosting Breakfast with Santa featuring a hearty buffet. Buy your tickets today on their website.
- American Legion Presents: “A Gnome Christmas”: On December 13th (12 PM – 5 PM) at the American Legion Post, the Legion is hosting “A Gnome Christmas” with food, games, face painting, hot cocoa and gifts from Santa. Parents please fill in applications in advance. All are welcome.
- Ellijay Paws in Need Presents: “Pictures with Santa”: On December 13th (10 AM – 1 PM) at the Maximum One Real Estate office, Ellijay Paws in Need is hosting Pictures with Santa from 10 AM to 1 PM, asking for $5 donations to support the Gilmer County Animal Shelter. Help a dog in need and get your family photos ready early!
- Engelheim Vineyards Christmas Jazz Concert: On December 13th (6:30 PM – 9 PM) is hosting their Christmas Jazz Concert with Becky Shaw and Allen Broyles from 6:30 PM to 9 PM, featuring wine tastings from 6:30 PM and doors opening at 7:15 PM. Children are welcome, and all proceeds support the Gilmer Community Food Pantry. Help support a worthy cause and enjoy a lively festive event!
Free Fun at the Library
The Gilmer County Public Library has a wonderful schedule of free activities for kids and teens:
- On Thursday, December 11th, the Gilmer County Library will be hosting Family Storytime at 10 AM with books, singalongs, and a craft. No registration required, all children must be accompanied by an adult.
Laughs & Live Performances at Gilmer Arts
Get ready for some exceptional performances:
- “Ten Ways to Survive the Holidays”: A hilarious comedy performance on on December 12th, 13th, (7 PM – 9 PM) and December 14th (2 PM – 4 PM). Let local performers guide you through holiday chaos with family photos and ghostly life lessons! Visit https://gilmerarts.com/ for more information.
Events in Our Neighboring Counties
Venturing out? Don’t miss these nearby highlights:
- Pickens County Chamber of Commerce Breakfast and Business: On December 9th (7 AM – 8:30 AM) the Chamber of Commerce is hosting Breakfast and Business at the Chatahoochee Technical College.
- Snowman Stroll: On December 12th (5 PM – 8:30 PM), Lee Newton Park in Pickens Countywill be hosting Snowman Stroll, featuring Mr. and Mrs. Claus and a light display with activities for all ages.
- Jasper Farmers Market: On December 13th (9 AM), the Jasper Farmers Market will be held in the Rideshare Lot in Lee Newton Park.
- Blue Ridge Ice Skating: Blue Ridge is hosting ice skating all through the holidays at the Farmer’s Market, come enjoy a lovely skate this holiday season.
- Swan Drive-In Theatre: Swan Drive-In in will be hosting movies nightly from Thursday to Sunday all holiday season. Enjoy a classic moviegoing experience fun for the whole family!
Looking Ahead…
Start planning your Rockin’ New Year’s Eve! Stay tuned for details on local wineries and pubs, like Butcher and Bottle, hosting their own bashes to ring in 2026.
A Friendly Reminder
As you enjoy all our community has to offer, please remember to practice safe driving habits, especially on our beautiful but winding mountain roads with limited visibility.
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We hope this guide helps you make the most of a magical December in Ellijay. For the latest updates, always visit newellijay.tv and follow us on social media.
Enjoy the season, support local. Take it easy, but take it!