The December Calendar is filled with holiday activities in the mountains. Living and working around the corner from Helen, we often take a drive through town to see the lights, people, and excitement. We hope you take time to visit the area and to celebrate Christmas by attending one or more of the special events, festivals, and parades scheduled this month. Welcome to a Christmas in the Mountains with Georgia Mountain Rentals!
November 15 to December 14, 2025
Festival of Trees: A Unicoi Tradition - 10 am to 10 pm
If you’re looking for philanthropic Helen, GA events, the Unicoi’s Festival of Trees might be just what you need to spark some holiday cheer. As most seasonal guests know, the holiday season doesn’t truly kick-off until Unicoi’s annual Festival of Trees auction begins. The display graces the second floor of the lodge from mid-November through early December. Visitors from all over the country bid on the passionately decorated trees and wreaths. At the end of the display period, the festive souvenirs are awarded to the highest bidder. We encourage all guests to view and participate in this event that supports a wonderful local organization.
December 5 to December 20, 2025
Victorian Christmas at Hardman Farm – 10 am to 4 pm
Step back in time to Christmas of 1877--See the Mansion at West End decked in gorgeous period holiday decor and learn about Victorian Christmas traditions from reenactors in period dress. This open house on Friday and Saturday nights in December is highlighted by twinkling candle lights, live music, s'mores around the campfire, and more! Pre-registration required. Tickets available at https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/victorian-christmas-2025-4570303. Hardman Farm Historic Site – Sautee Nacoochee, GA 30571
December 6 and 7, 2025
Annual Christkindlmarkt - 11 am to 5 pm
The Tenth Annual Christkindlmarkt is in Helen this weekend. Christkindlmarkts are a German tradition of combining food, music, and entertainment with markets of imported and local Christmas specialties in a holiday atmosphere. Sponsored by the Greater Helen Area Chamber of Commerce.
December 6, 2025
Annual Victorian Christmas at Sautee Junction – 10 am to 4 pm
Shops – Food – Music – Artisans – Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus from 11 am to 3 pm. 2269 Ga Hwy 17, Sautee Nacoochee, GA 30571.
December 6, 2025
Christmas in the Mountains, Parade & Celebration in Cleveland, GA - 12 pm to 7 pm
Join us for the Chamber’s annual Christmas in the Mountains Celebration! This county-wide, community event kicks off the holiday season in White County with festive fun and fantasy. This event features a holiday market on the Cleveland Courthouse Square and lighted Christmas parade through Downtown Cleveland. The Holiday Market will be on the Cleveland Courthouse Square 12-7 pm, and we’ll have amazing crafts, gifts, and food vendors! The Lighted Parade will begin at 6 pm.
December 13, 2025
Light Up the Mountains! – Alpine Helen’s Annual Christmas Parade – 6 pm to 7 pm
Get ready for a magical evening as the beautiful lights and holiday spirit come to Downtown Helen, GA! Bring your family and friends to experience the joy of the season. Enjoy the signts and sounds as the parade travels through the heart of Helen. What to Expect… Festive Floats dazzling with holiday lights; Marching Groups and local organizations; Music and Cheer throughout the route and a special appearance by Santa Claus!
December 26, 2025 to January 4, 2026
Winter Break Fun and Christmas Tree Toss - 11 am to 3 pm
For many families, having a live Christmas tree is a tradition. However, a few days after the celebration, you will want it out of the house and even out of the yard. North Georgia Wildlife Park will be taking in recycled trees and using them as tasty treats and toys for their zoo animals. Curious about what the animals do with their recycled trees? Come join us and see for yourself! They love dragging them, eating them, rubbing on them, tearing them up and much more! Great fun and enrichment for both animals and humans alike! 2912 Paradise Valley Road - Cleveland, GA 30528. Zoo Hours from 11 am to 3 pm with the Tree Toss between 1 pm to 3 pm.
December 31, 2025
Dropping of the Edelweiss – 8 pm to 12 am
Join everyone as we ring in the New Year at the Festhalle with the Annual Dropping of the Edelweiss! Live Music – Dancing – Party Favors – Heavy Hors d’Oeuvres – Champagne Toast at Midnight – Beer and Wine available for purchase.
Admission: Adults - $30, Kids 6 to 12 - $15, Kids under 6 – Free.