From baking cookies to decorating the tree, the holidays are about making memories with family and friends. For residents of metro Atlanta, the opportunities to make new holiday memories while exploring the surrounding areas are endless.

Here is a list of some of our favorite holiday traditions in Atlanta:

The Nutcracker

For many Atlanta residents, the Atlanta Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker is synonymous with the holidays. Celebrating its 55^th season of The Nutcracker, the Atlanta Ballet invites individuals to join it at the Fabulous Fox Theatre with performances going on now through Dec. 28, 2014. Tickets are currently on sale at www.atlantaballet.com with prices starting as low as $20.

Snow Mountain

Quickly becoming one of metro Atlanta’s premier holiday events, Stone Mountain Christmas and Snow Mountain are two attractions that you will not want to miss. Highlights of Stone Mountain Christmas include two million lights at the quaint mountain village of Crossroads, as well as a variety of live shows and a nightly parade that ends with fireworks. For families looking to build a snowman or go tubing, Snow Mountain is the only snow park in Atlanta. After you enjoy some frosty fun, roast some marshmallows and warm-up by the fire. For more information, including tips from Stone Mountain’s Public Relations Manager Jeanine Jones, click here.

Garden Lights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden

During the holiday season, the Atlanta Botanical Garden turns into an electrical extravaganza with spectacular light displays located throughout the Garden. Going on now through Jan. 3, individuals will have the opportunity to view new color schemes, as well as fan favorites such as the Orchestral Orbs, Radiant Rainforest and more. Perfect for the entire family, you will want to make sure Garden Lights is on your holiday to do list. For more information, visit www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org.

Ice Skating

For families looking to lace up their skates and do a few laps around the rink, there are plenty of opportunities to ice skate in metro Atlanta. From Centennial Park to Atlantic Station to the IceForum in Kennesaw, there is an ice skating rink located just a short drive from your front door.

These are just a few of the several holiday events going on throughout metro Atlanta. The best part for residents of our metro Atlanta communities is that the fun is just minutes away.

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