Get ready for Alpine Helen’s winter wonderland! The popular Northeast Georgia tourist town will transform into a holiday paradise from the day after Thanksgiving through February 17, 2025.
On Friday, November 29, Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive at Riverside Park as the village is lighted to begin the holiday season. Musical performances by local groups will precede their arrival, and children are invited to meet with Santa from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday.
Known for its enchanting Christmas atmosphere, Helen extends the holiday spirit with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and heartwarming events throughout the winter season. This town’s charm and beauty have attracted two Lifetime Christmas movies.
Visitors can expect a magical ambiance with festive shop windows, lighted streets, and handcrafted Christmas ornaments. The town’s specialty retailers and restaurants cater to the winter season, staying open late to allow visitors to fully experience the Alpine charm.
Christmas market and more
In addition to the town’s amazing Christmas light display, Helen will host various events throughout the winter, starting with its 17th Annual Christmas Market this weekend and next, Nov. 30-Dec. 1, and Dec. 7-8.
Helen’s Christmas Market, formerly Christkindlmarkt (the name was changed to make it easier to pronounce), offers unique handmade gifts and decorations and an assortment of candy, food, and drinks.
Beginning this year, the market will be held on the downtown plaza and at Unicoi Hill Park, located on the northern end of town, just off North Main Street.
Other upcoming events include:
- Dropping of the Edelweiss New Year’s Eve Celebration: December 31, at the Helen Festhalle. Ring in the new year with music, dancing, and the symbolic dropping of the Edelweiss, a flower symbolizing courage and devotion.
- Fasching Celebration (German Mardi Gras): February 7-8, 15, and 22, 2025. Join the festivities with a pub crawl, scavenger hunt, costumed party, and even a tubing parade down the Chattahoochee River.
- WinterFest Arts Tour / Sautee Nacoochee Arts Festival: February 15-16, 2025. This two-day event features over 175 artists showcasing their work at four locations, including the Helen Arts & Heritage Center and Unicoi State Park & Lodge.
