Spending Christmas Day in Atlanta can be surprisingly fun, even though many businesses close and the city quiets down. Whether you live here or you’re visiting family, there’s plenty to do if you plan a bit ahead and know where to look.
Below is a practical guide to things to do in Atlanta on Christmas Day, with local context, tips, and realistic options for the holiday.
| Type of Activity | Likely Open? | Good For |
|---|---|---|
| Parks & outdoor trails | ✅ Usually open | Walks, photo ops, low-cost fun |
| Major attractions (zoo, museums) | ⚠️ Often closed | Check case-by-case |
| Restaurants | ⚠️ Some open | Mainly hotels & certain chains |
| Movie theaters | ✅ Commonly open | Families, couples, solo outings |
| Ice skating rinks | ✅ Often open | Kids, groups, holiday photos |
| Churches & religious services | ✅ Open for services | Worship, concerts, community |
| Public transit (MARTA) | ✅ Holiday schedule | Getting around without driving |
Even when most attractions close, Atlanta’s parks and paths are typically open on Christmas Day. The city feels calmer, and traffic is lighter than usual.
The Atlanta BeltLine Eastside and Westside Trails are open year-round and are a great way to get outside after opening gifts.
Nearby parking can be limited in popular areas (like near Ponce City Market), so arriving earlier in the day usually helps.
Piedmont Park
400 Park Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Piedmont Park is one of the easiest, most flexible options on Christmas Day:
Restrooms may be on limited schedules, so it’s worth planning ahead, especially if you’re bringing kids.
While the fountains and some on-site venues may not be fully operating, you can still walk through the area around Centennial Olympic Park and nearby attractions:
Note that the park itself has had changing operations in recent years, so check current access rules before you go if you’re planning a specific activity there.
Many intown neighborhoods are known for festive displays, which are perfect for an evening drive:
You can simply drive slowly and enjoy the lights, or park in a safe, legal spot and walk a few blocks where sidewalks allow.
Some holiday attractions in the Atlanta area do operate on December 25, but it varies by year. It’s smart to confirm details well before Christmas.
Many large holiday light events in metro Atlanta run late into December. Not all are open specifically on Christmas Day, but some have in past years:
Atlanta Botanical Garden – Garden Lights, Holiday Nights
1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
This is a major holiday tradition in Midtown. The event often runs through late December or early January, but Christmas Day operations change by year, so check their schedule early if this is a must-do.
Zoo Atlanta
800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315
The zoo itself is typically closed on Christmas Day, but holiday light events or special programming around the date can vary.
If you’re planning your trip around these attractions, it’s safer to book for Christmas Eve, December 26, or another nearby date, and treat Christmas Day as your “flex” day.
Pop-up and seasonal ice skating rinks in and around Atlanta often have extended holiday hours and may be open on Christmas Day:
Common seasonal locations include:
Because operators and locations can change, look up:
🧣 Tip: Holiday sessions can sell out, so if online reservations are offered, it’s wise to book ahead rather than walking up.
Many Atlanta-area movie theaters are open on Christmas Day, often with big crowd turnout for new releases.
General tips:
If you plan to use MARTA, consider theaters near MARTA stations or bus routes to avoid parking hassles.
Some bowling alleys and family entertainment centers operate on Christmas Day, especially those that cater to groups and tourists.
Typical offerings:
Hours can be shortened on December 25, so call ahead before you drive across town.
Finding a place to eat on Christmas Day takes planning. Most small, independent restaurants close, but a few categories often stay open.
Many hotel restaurants in Downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead stay open on Christmas, sometimes with special holiday menus.
You’ll often find:
Because these places can book up, reservations are recommended.
Some national or regional chains — especially those known for 24/7 service or holiday hours — may be open on Christmas Day in and around Atlanta.
Common options to check:
Call the specific location first; hours can vary even within the same chain.
The Buford Highway corridor (stretching through parts of Brookhaven, Chamblee, and Doraville) is famous for its global food scene. Some Asian, Latin American, and other international restaurants may open on Christmas Day, though not all.
If you’re exploring this area:
For many people, Christmas Day church services are the heart of the holiday. In Atlanta, you’ll find a wide range of options.
Most larger churches around metro Atlanta share holiday service schedules in advance. Christmas Day services can include:
Churches may be located across:
🕊 Tip: If you’re new to Atlanta, look up churches by denomination (Baptist, Methodist, Catholic, non-denominational, etc.) and review their “Christmas services” page in early December.
Some synagogues, mosques, temples, and other houses of worship may host:
Because practices vary widely, it’s best to reach out directly if you’re looking to visit or participate.
Atlanta has a strong network of nonprofits, shelters, and community groups that serve residents year-round. On and around Christmas Day, demand for volunteers and donations is often high — but spots can fill quickly.
Some shelters and community kitchens may offer:
Common patterns:
If you’d like to help:
If in-person spots are full:
Even small gestures can help local groups continue their work beyond the holidays.
MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) typically runs on a reduced or Sunday/holiday schedule on Christmas Day.
General expectations:
For planning:
Atlanta traffic is usually much lighter on Christmas Day, especially in the morning and early afternoon.
Things to keep in mind:
Not every plan has to be out on the town. If you’re visiting Atlanta and staying in a hotel, Airbnb, or with family, you can still lean into the local feel.
Some ideas:
To make your day go smoothly:
With a bit of planning, Christmas Day in Atlanta can be a mix of fresh air, city views, low-key outings, and memorable time with the people you’re here with — whether you’re a longtime local or just in town for the holidays.
