Jim Gilvin Mayor at City of Alpharetta | Official website
Jim Gilvin Mayor at City of Alpharetta | Official website
Alpharetta is gearing up for its 46th annual Season of Celebration, set to kick off with the Alpharetta Tree Lighting ceremony on November 23 from 5 to 9 p.m. in Downtown Alpharetta. The event promises an evening filled with festive activities designed to create lasting holiday memories.
A highlight of the evening will be the lighting of a 50-foot Christmas tree, generously donated by Evans General Contractors, which will take place at 6:30 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the spectacle as thousands of lights illuminate the Town Green. Other attractions include roasting marshmallows at fire pits and Sugarplum Storytime inside the Metropolitan Ballet Theatre’s igloo. Hot beverages will be available for purchase from local vendors such as The Ginger Room, Boarding Pass Coffee, and Kilwin’s.
Live holiday music will be provided by the Alpharetta City Band’s Jazz Ensemble, along with other performances on the main stage near Alpharetta City Hall. Attendees can also look forward to snow flurries and a preview of the Metropolitan Ballet Theatre’s show "The Nutcracker," scheduled for December 13-15 at Innovation Academy. Santa Claus will make an appearance to meet children and spread holiday cheer.
"The tree lighting is one of Alpharetta’s most cherished traditions," said Mayor Jim Gilvin. "It brings me great joy to see our community come together, sharing the spirit of peace, hope, and love at the heart of the holiday season."
In addition to celebrating, attendees can participate in giving back through Alpharetta's annual Holiday Food Drive benefiting North Fulton Community Charities from November 23 through December 15. Non-perishable food donations are encouraged and can be dropped off at various locations around Alpharetta.
Donation bins are located indoors at several sites including Alpharetta Adult Activity Center and Alpharetta City Hall among others. Outdoor collection shelves are placed strategically downtown for convenience. Items most needed this year include peanut butter, pasta, canned soups, mac and cheese, canned fruit, oatmeal, and toiletries.
For those unable to donate goods but still wishing to contribute, monetary donations can be made online via NFCC’s website.
The Tree Lighting Ceremony is free for all attendees with parking available nearby. Further information about holiday events can be found online or through social media channels.