The Lights of Helen

The town of Helen, Georgia, is blazing with Christmas lights and decorations.

The alpine town of Helen, Georgia, never shines brighter than it does at Christmas. The town features light-covered trees, a huge decorated Christmas tree, a Christmas-decorated gazebo, and lights on all the buildings. It is a feast for the eyes.

The Christmas tree anchors the town plaza. (Margie Williamson/NowHabersham)
The downtown area of Helen is aglow in the Christmas lights. (Margie Williamson/NowHabersham)

The shops of Helen have also decorated their windows. Displays include a variety of Santas and special Christmas inventory.

Helen is nestled in the mountains of White County. Originally a town built to support the industry of logging, Helen reinvented itself in the late 1960s, adopting a German-alpine theme for the town.

The gazebo is a beautiful place to observe the Christmas lights. (Margie Williamson/NowHabersham)
Many of the town’s shop windows feature Santas. (Margie Williamson/NowHabersham)

The alpine town celebrates German architecture, food, products, and experiences. It’s month-long Octoberfest celebration has been visited by hundreds of thousands of visitors. Its hot-air balloon race weekend in May attracts thousands more as the race to the Atlanta ocean begins. And, its Christmas lights are outstanding.

The 200 shops of Helen are open for Christmas shopping. Restaurants, several with outdoor heated areas, are serving diners. The horse-drawn carriage rides are available, and Santa and Mrs. Claus make scheduled appearances.

Parking is available in lots a block off the shopping area for a fee of $5.00. Masks are required in all shops and are requested while out in the town as well. For up-to-date information on Christmas events, go to Helen’s website.