The tiny town that’ll steal your heart this holiday season.
See whyChristmas is the perfect timeto visit Dahlonega, Georgia.
Hint: It was also voted one of ourSouth’s Best Small Towns.
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
But the town isn’t frozen in perfectionit’s full of life and constantly celebrating.
An Actual Hallmark Movie
Southerners aren’t the only ones who have noticed either.
The Hallmark Channel filmed one of its signature seasonal hits,Christmas in Homestead,in Dahlonega years ago.
The dedicated residents of Lumpkin County preserved the 1948 Holly Theatre.Credit: Robbie Caponetto
“It just feels good,” explains Tony Owens, second-generation owner ofThe Fudge Factoryon the square.
“People are caroling.
We’re opening our doors and inviting everyone in.
The restored 1888 House gets dressed up for the season.Credit: Robbie Caponetto
There’s something about smelling hot cider and toasted nuts.
Our square just harks back to a different time.
We have a busy Christmas season, but it doesn’t feel like going to the mall.
After the official festivities are over, there’s still plenty happening here.Credit: Robbie Caponetto
You’re coming to hometown America, to Main Street.”
Dahlonega is the jot down of place where residents can’t round a corner without spotting an old friend.
She ownsCranberry Cornersgift shop.
Pick up some cookies for St. Nick at Dahlonega’s Picnic Cafe and Dessertery.Credit: Robbie Caponetto
On every first Friday of December, Kathy and her staff wear their Christmas pj’s to work.
She’s appropriately clad in a black-and-red plaid set as she greets every shopper.
One after another, the floats and marchers that follow reveal what makes this town so charming.
Credit: Robbie Caponetto
Spirited ladies from the local Jazzercise class pass by disguised as elves and performing a choreographed routine.
Vintage cars roll along.
Candy tossed from floats rains down over the crowd.
Catch Mr. and Mrs. Claus as they stroll around Dahlonega’s town square.Credit: Robbie Caponetto
Santa, dressed in mountain finery, closes the show on his sleigh.
Lighting the Tree
Just after sundown, a massive fir tree in the square lights up.
(Well, ideally.
Credit: Robbie Caponetto
In reality, the lights flicker to life about a breath or two after.
But somehow, this little pause makes it even better.)
Carriages roam around downtown, filled with late-night, sweater-swathed passengers craning to catch every inch of the scenery.
Wine and dine at Montaluce Winery & Restaurant.Credit: Robbie Caponetto
Right down the street, the Shenanigans crew celebrates well into the night.
The annual fundraising event takes place the first two weekends in December on Fridays and Saturdays.
Shop for unique gifts offered by artists and craftsmen, themed gift baskets, and homemade sweets.
it’s possible for you to also visit the many wineries in the surrounding area.
And yes, it might take just a few extra seconds.
