Fall is when Dacula's social calendar comes alive. From festival weekends in Hoschton and Braselton to downtown tree lightings and neighborhood gatherings around Apalachee Farms, there are plenty of excuses to get out and enjoy the season. This roundup covers the upcoming events in Dacula, Georgia and the surrounding area, with a source link for every listing so you can verify details yourself.
A note on timing: many of Dacula's annual events announce their dates six to eight weeks out. As of October 28, 2026, the season ahead is packed, and Halloween lands this weekend. The treats come first: Dia de los Muertos fills Thrasher Park in Norcross on Friday, October 30, Pushing Daisies plays Del Rio in Dacula proper that same night, and Saturday, October 31 brings the Halloween Path Parade and Carnival in Braselton, the Halloween Carnival at Primrose School of Braselton and the Halloween Magic Show at the Lawrenceville Arts Center, while Not Dracula Day keeps celebrating Dacula's proper pronunciation all month long with T-shirts at City Hall. The Scream Zone Haunted Forest at Buford Corn Maze and the Trail of Terror at Lanier Islands keep frightening through early November, and Randy's pumpkin patch stays open through November 1, so there is still time for one more autumnal outing. Then the calendar marches straight into the holidays: the first full November weekend pairs the Suwanee Wine Fest, the Gobbler races at Little Mulberry Park, the Harvest Festival on the Lawrenceville Lawn, Sugarland at the Gas South Arena and PixieRock III close to home on Saturday, November 7, with the Dr. Seuss Grinch musical filling the Gas South Theater on Sunday, November 8. Gwinnett County honors veterans at the Fallen Heroes Memorial on November 11, Songwriters at the Lake debuts at Lanier Islands November 13-15, the Light Park at Gwinnett Field opens November 13, and the Glow Light Show at Coolray Field switches on November 14, the same day as the NFP Holiday Marketplace in the Dacula area, Sugar Hill's 23rd annual Christmas arts and crafts festival, and a pair of brand-new nights out: Banda MS at the Gas South Arena and the Suwanee Chili Cook Off and Music Festival. The Mall of Georgia lights its tree on November 15, Ernie Haase and Signature Sound sing in Hoschton that evening, the Festival of 100 Trees and the Christmas Canteen open on November 19, and November 20 stacks Braselton, Winder and Flowery Branch tree lightings with the opening of the Atlanta Christkindl Market, the Georgia Festival of Trees, the Magical Nights of Lights at Lanier Islands and the Vintage Market Days Holly Jolly market. Saturday, November 21 is the season's biggest day yet, with Gwinnett Glows at the Gas South District, Celebrate the Holidays in Braselton, the Art-Tiques Holiday Market, Christmas in the South at Buford Town Center, Jingle Mingle in Gainesville, Lilburn's drone-lit Holiday Lights and Flight Fest, the Lilburn Farmers Market holiday pop-up, and the second weekend of the Heart of Braselton Antique Show, with the new Tree Lighting at The Forum in Peachtree Corners rounding out Sunday, November 22. Thanksgiving week brings the Gobble Wobble 5K at Little Mulberry Park and the Lighting of the Great Tree on the Historic Courthouse lawn on November 26, the Emmanuel Cantata at the Gas South Theater on November 24, for KING + COUNTRY's A Drummer Boy Christmas on November 27, Santa's boat arrival at Lanier Islands the same day, the Northeast Atlanta Ballet's Nutcracker that Friday night, and Brunch with Santa in Braselton, Loganville's parade and tree lighting and Snellville's lighted parade all on November 28. December stays just as full: the Cravin' Bacon Walk on December 3, the Chateau Elan tree lighting, Jolly Holly Day and the Norcross Holiday Celebration on December 4, the Holiday 5K at Little Mulberry Park, Deck the Hall in Duluth, Martin Lawrence's comedy night and for KING + COUNTRY's return on December 5, the Buford Holiday Festival, Christmas in Grayson and Christmas on Green Street on December 6, the Jazz Legacy Project at Red Clay on December 2, the Gwinnett Ballet Theatre's Nutcracker through mid-December, Lilburn, Winder and the Night Before Christmas benefit concert on December 12, the new Arrival holiday experience at the Gas South Arena the same evening, Trans-Siberian Orchestra's The Ghosts of Christmas Eve on December 13, Sugar Hill's holiday celebration on December 13, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra's Holiday Showcase on December 16, Celtic Angels and Michelle Malone on December 18, the Summit Showdown trail race on December 19, Joe Gransden swings through the Red Clay Music Foundry on December 21, the Whoville Hustle charity run on Christmas Eve morning, and the Gwinnett County Black Chamber of Commerce's Kwanzaa celebration closes out the year on December 30. New since our last refresh on October 27: the second annual Atlanta Cup brings Tommy Paul, Taylor Fritz, Taylor Townsend and Amanda Anisimova to the Gas South Arena for a pro tennis exhibition on December 4, the Buford School of Ballet dances Star of Wonder onto the Gas South Theater stage November 19-22, the Atlanta Gladiators open a stretch of weekend home hockey at the arena starting November 13, Norcross offers free carriage rides on Thursday and Friday evenings December 4-18, Lionheart Theatre serves up its Holiday Punch run of short holiday plays December 17-20, The Winter Pour fills the George Pierce Park Community Center with grown-up holiday mingling on December 5, and the Grinch drops in on The Village at Mall of Georgia for a free afternoon on December 20. I refresh this guide each time as new dates are announced and old ones pass, so check back whenever you are planning a weekend out.
Recently Added to the Calendar
Since our last refresh on October 27, a fresh batch of announcements has joined the calendar, led by a fuller Gas South District season and some brand-new holiday traditions. The Atlanta Cup brings Tommy Paul, Taylor Fritz, Taylor Townsend and Amanda Anisimova to the Gas South Arena for a pro tennis exhibition on December 4, the Buford School of Ballet dances Star of Wonder onto the Gas South Theater stage November 19-22, and the Atlanta Gladiators fill the arena with weekend home hockey through November and December. Norcross adds free carriage rides on Thursday and Friday evenings December 4-18, Lionheart Theatre opens Holiday Punch December 17-20, The Winter Pour warms up the George Pierce Park Community Center on December 5, and the Grinch takes over The Village green at Mall of Georgia on December 20. Everything from our earlier refreshes, from the Light Park, the Glow Light Show and the Gobble Wobble to the town-by-town tree lightings, remains on the calendar and is covered in the sections below.
Mall of Georgia Tree Lighting Ceremony
The Village Amphitheatre at Mall of Georgia, 3333 Buford Drive, Buford, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Mall of Georgia lights its grand tree at The Village Amphitheatre on Sunday, November 15, an evening of live entertainment, face painting and a visit from Santa that has become a favorite holiday kickoff for families across north Gwinnett. It is free to attend, and it makes a cheerful way to open the holiday season with a little shopping thrown in.
Source: Mall of Georgia events and news , Guide to Gwinnett tree lightings on Explore Gwinnett
Christmas in the South at Buford Town Center
Buford Town Center, 2200 Buford Highway, Buford, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Vintage Markets holiday show returns to Buford Town Center with vendors packed with holiday decor, gifts and handmade finds, a show that has earned Best of Gwinnett honors three years running. It lands the weekend before Thanksgiving, which makes it a smart first stop for anyone who likes to get holiday shopping done early.
Source: Vintage Markets 2026 show schedule , Georgia fall festivals 2026 on Festivals and Fairs USA
Not Dracula Day in Dacula
Dacula City Hall, 442 Harbins Road, Dacula
Dacula's playful second annual Not Dracula Day is a month-long celebration of the city's proper pronunciation, Duh-CUE-luh, and the fun is still going: Not Dracula Day T-shirts are on sale at City Hall while the month's festivities continue. It is a delightfully Dacula tradition, and a reminder that this town knows how to have fun with its own name.
Source: City of Dacula news flash: Not Dracula Day , City of Dacula official site
13th Annual Suwanee Wine Fest
Suwanee Town Center Park, 330 Town Center Avenue, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Gwinnett's biggest wine tasting returns for its 13th year at Suwanee Town Center Park, with unlimited samples of more than 150 wines selected by TopShelf Beverage, plus Georgia craft beer, cocktails, live music, food trucks and grape stomping. It is strictly 21 and older, and tickets sell in advance through the festival's official site starting around $65. A grown-up afternoon out before the holidays take over the calendar.
Source: Suwanee Wine Fest official site , City of Suwanee calendar: Suwanee Wine Fest
Scream Zone Haunted Forest at Buford Corn Maze
Buford Corn Maze, 4470 Bennett Road, Buford, about 10 miles from Dacula
When the sun goes down at the Buford Corn Maze, the fields turn into the Scream Zone: a haunted forest with its own ticket and a decidedly spooky walk through the woods. The maze season runs through November 15, and the haunted forest opens Friday and Saturday nights, so thrill-seeking Apalachee Farms teens have plenty of chances to test their nerve.
Source: Scream Zone Haunted Forest at Buford Corn Maze , Buford Corn Maze 2026 tickets
Hairspray at the Aurora Theatre
Lawrenceville Arts Center, 128 East Pike Street, Lawrenceville, about 25 minutes from Dacula
The big-hearted musical Hairspray takes the stage at the Aurora Theatre in Lawrenceville this fall, opening October 2 with its signature mix of 1960s dance, humor and a message about standing up for what is right. It is the rare show that makes the whole family laugh and feel something real, and it is a wonderful excuse for an evening in downtown Lawrenceville.
Source: City of Lawrenceville events calendar , The DiG: Lawrenceville 2026 save-the-date events
Halloween Carnival at Primrose School of Braselton
Primrose School of Braselton, 2711 Old Winder Highway, Braselton, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
A family Halloween carnival for the littlest goblins sits right on the edge of town on Halloween morning, with games, treats and costumed fun hosted by the Primrose School of Braselton. It pairs beautifully with the Path Parade in downtown Braselton, making October 31 a full day of community fun for young families.
Mike Farris Sings The Soul of Christmas
Buford Community Center, Buford, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Grammy-winning singer brings a soulful, rock-and-roll Christmas show to the Buford Community Center in early December, a holiday concert that mixes gospel heat with seasonal warmth. It is listed on Explore Gwinnett's official Christmas guide, and it is a lovely way to open the holiday concert calendar close to home.
Source: Explore Gwinnett: The Official Christmas Guide to Gwinnett County , Holidays in Gwinnett on Explore Gwinnett
Motown Christmas at the Lawrenceville Arts Center
Lawrenceville Arts Center, 128 East Pike Street, Lawrenceville, about 25 minutes from Dacula
Motown favorites get a holiday twist as the Lawrenceville Arts Center presents Motown Christmas in mid-December, a toe-tapping seasonal show straight from the official Gwinnett Christmas guide. For anyone who grew up on the Supremes and the Temptations, it is a warm, joyful way to mark the season.
Source: Explore Gwinnett: The Official Christmas Guide to Gwinnett County , Holidays in Gwinnett on Explore Gwinnett
A Christmas Carol at the Lawrenceville Arts Center
Lawrenceville Arts Center, 128 East Pike Street, Lawrenceville, about 25 minutes from Dacula
The classic Dickens tale comes to life on the Lawrenceville stage in mid-December, a holiday theater tradition that families carry through generations. It shares the arts center calendar with Motown Christmas, so a single evening at the Lawrenceville Arts Center can renew the whole family's holiday spirit.
Source: Explore Gwinnett: The Official Christmas Guide to Gwinnett County , Holidays in Gwinnett on Explore Gwinnett
Heart of Braselton Antique Show
Braselton, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Heart of Braselton Antique Show brings its second fall weekend of vintage finds, antiques and collectibles to the area on November 21-22, per the 2026 show schedule from the Vintage Markets series. It pairs nicely with the Christmas @ Countryside market in the same series, giving treasure hunters a full season of dates across the holiday months to browse.
Halloween Magic Show at the Lawrenceville Arts Center
Lawrenceville Arts Center, 128 East Pike Street, Lawrenceville, about 25 minutes from Dacula
Magician Arthur Atsma brings a family magic show to the Metro Waterproofing Main Stage on Halloween morning, a playful mix of tricks and lighthearted fun for the littlest witches and wizards. It is a lovely way to start the big day before the evening's trick-or-treating begins.
Source: Halloween Magic Show at the Lawrenceville Arts Center , Aurora Theatre productions and programs
Trail of Terror at Lanier Islands
Lanier Islands, Buford, about 35 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Lanier Islands transforms into a haunted trail with live performers on select nights through November 7, part of the region's bigger Halloween lineup at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. It is a larger-than-life scare for the teens who have graduated from corn mazes, and a worthy road trip on a crisp fall evening.
Source: FOX 5 Atlanta: Halloween haunts around metro Atlanta
Dia de los Muertos Festival in Norcross
Thrasher Park, Norcross, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Norcross honors Dia de los Muertos with an evening of remembrance, dance and live authentic entertainment at Thrasher Park, part of the city's month-long Spirits of the Season lineup. It is a beautiful, family-friendly way to close out October and learn about a meaningful cultural tradition just down the road from Dacula, with candlelight and color filling the park as the month winds down.
Source: Dia de los Muertos Festival on the City of Norcross site , Norcross October events in the North Atlanta Star
Songwriters at the Lake at Lanier Islands
Lanier Islands Resort, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford, about 35 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The inaugural Songwriters at the Lake festival brings more than 20 award-winning songwriters to Lanier Islands for a weekend of intimate performances and the stories behind the hits, headlined Saturday night by Rolling Stones and Allman Brothers keyboardist Chuck Leavell and friends. Three-day tickets include resort gate entry, and a portion of proceeds benefits the Georgia Mountain Food Bank and a songwriting scholarship. It is a brand-new reason to point the car toward the lake in November.
Source: Songwriters at the Lake official site , Songwriters at the Lake tickets on Big Tickets
Stone Mountain Christmas
Stone Mountain Park, 1000 Robert E. Lee Boulevard, Stone Mountain, about 40 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Stone Mountain Park turns into a Christmas village with more than two million twinkling lights, a nightly Christmas parade, the Enchanted Tree Lighting Ceremony and visits with Santa on select dates from November 7 through January 3. It is a larger-than-life holiday outing worth the drive for Apalachee Farms families, and the Summit Skyride and family attractions make it a full day rather than a quick stop.
Source: Stone Mountain Christmas on Stone Mountain Park , Stone Mountain Park festivals and events
Festival of 100 Trees at the Southeastern Railway Museum
Southeastern Railway Museum, 3595 Buford Highway, Duluth, about 25 minutes from Dacula
The Southeastern Railway Museum decks its halls and historic rail cars with more than 100 decorated Christmas trees for the holidays, with Santa visits and family programming running daily from November 19 through early January. It pairs beautifully with the museum's trains-and-treats events for kids who never tire of locomotives, and it is a bright, indoor way to ease into the season as the weather turns.
Source: Southeastern Railway Museum events , Southeastern Railway Museum homepage
Snellville Christmas Tree Lighting and Lighted Christmas Parade
Snellville Towne Green, 2342 Oak Road, Snellville, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Snellville marks its 45th annual Christmas tree lighting and 12th annual lighted Christmas parade on the Towne Green, an evening of floats, lights and community cheer on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It is a lovely family outing and a sweet way to kick off the holiday season, with the glow of the parade making the first holiday weekend of the year feel official.
Gwinnett County Kwanzaa Celebration
Gwinnett County Public Library Duluth Branch, 3180 Main Street, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Dacula
The Gwinnett County Black Chamber of Commerce closes out the year with a Kwanzaa celebration honoring the fifth day and the principle of Nia (Purpose), with a program of reflection and community at the Duluth library branch. It is a meaningful, free way to round out the holiday season with neighbors, and tickets are available in advance through Eventbrite.
Source: Gwinnett County Kwanzaa 2026 on Eventbrite , Gwinnett County Black Chamber of Commerce Kwanzaa page
Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve
Gas South Arena, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The arena-rock holiday spectacle returns for its 30th anniversary with The Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO and More, a full evening of lasers, fire, snow and soaring orchestral rock on the closest big stage to Dacula. Two shows on Sunday, December 13 give families and fans plenty of ways to catch the season's most theatrical concert, and tickets are on sale now through the arena's official event page.
Source: Trans-Siberian Orchestra at Gas South Arena , Gas South Arena events on Ticketmaster
for KING + COUNTRY: A Drummer Boy Christmas
Gas South Arena, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Grammy-winning duo's theatrical holiday tour brings its annual Christmas spectacular to the Gas South Arena on the Friday after Thanksgiving and again in early December, with a full band, striking visuals and a joyful mix of original songs and seasonal classics. It is a polished, family-friendly way to open the holiday concert season close to home.
Source: Gas South Arena official events calendar , Gas South Arena events on Ticketmaster
Sugarland at the Gas South Arena
Gas South Arena, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The country duo behind hits like Stuck Like Glue and Something More brings its Ride or Die tour to the Gas South Arena on a Saturday night in early November, one of the biggest country dates on the arena's fall calendar. It is a lively excuse for a night out in Duluth, and tickets are available through the arena's official listings.
Source: Gas South Arena official events calendar , Gas South Arena events on Ticketmaster
NFP Holiday Marketplace with the North Pole Kids Zone
Williams Place, 1575 Natchez Way, Grayson, in the Dacula area
The NFP Social Committee hosts a holiday shopping market in the Dacula area with local businesses, creators and entrepreneurs set up for seasonal browsing, plus a North Pole Kids Zone to keep the little ones entertained while parents shop. It is a cheerful, close-to-home way to start crossing names off the holiday list, and tickets are free to reserve through Eventbrite.
Braselton Tree Lighting Celebration
Historic Downtown Braselton, 9924 Davis Street, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Historic downtown Braselton lights its community tree on the Friday before the big Celebrate the Holidays weekend, an evening of carols and warm lights that kicks off the town's holiday calendar. It pairs perfectly with the parade, festival and vendor village the next day, making it a full weekend of small-town holiday cheer.
Source: Braselton events on Explore Georgia , Holidays in Braselton on Explore Braselton
Christmas on Green Street
Historic Green Street, 830 Green Street NE, Gainesville, about 35 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Gainesville's beloved holiday tradition returns on the first Sunday of December: a parade of antique cars, holiday floats and marching bands steps off from the Civic Center, historic homes along Green Street open their doors, and live music, Santa, train rides and a tree-lighting finale fill the afternoon. It is free, family-friendly and one of the prettiest holiday afternoons in Northeast Georgia.
Jingle Mingle and the Lighting of the Chicken
Roosevelt Square, Gainesville, about 35 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Gainesville's official holiday kickoff fills Roosevelt Square with music, food, family activities and the city's famously playful Lighting of the Chicken, alongside the grand reveal of the annual Festival of Trees. It is a free, festive evening that gives Apalachee Farms families a fun reason to explore downtown Gainesville as the season begins.
Pendant Making Workshop at Wildbird Bookshop
Wildbird Bookshop, 1048 Homestead Way, Dacula, about 10 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Dacula's beloved indie bookshop hosts a hands-on pendant making workshop on Friday evening, a cozy craft night in the Homestead at Hog Mountain development. Wildbird has quickly become a gathering place for the community with its book clubs and storytimes, and a craft night like this is a lovely way to meet neighbors while making something to keep.
Source: Wildbird Bookshop official site , Dacula area events listing
PixieRock III Concert
Dacula area, about 10 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Dacula area concert scene keeps a lively beat going into November with PixieRock III, a local show listed on the town's rolling concert calendar. It is a reminder that live music near Apalachee Farms does not stop when the festival season winds down, and a fun option for a night out close to home.
Source: Bandsintown: Dacula, GA concerts
Skyhoundz Discdogathon World Qualifier
2032 Jones Phillips Road, Dacula, about 10 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Man's best friend takes center stage when the Skyhoundz Discdogathon World Qualifier comes to Dacula, a day of disc-catching dogs and their humans competing for a spot at the world championship. Spectators are welcome, and it is a wonderfully family-friendly, tail-wagging way to spend the Sunday before Thanksgiving weekend with the kids.
Source: Dacula area events listing
GDU Moms Stand Up Comedy Night
802 Dacula Road, Dacula, about 5 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Dacula's mom community turns a December Saturday night into a laugh-out-loud evening with a stand up comedy show, a grown-up night out right in town. It is a fun, lighthearted way to unwind as the holiday season ramps up, and another sign of how much the local community likes to gather together.
Source: Dacula area events listing
Gwinnett Glows Tree Lighting
Gas South District, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Gwinnett County's signature holiday kickoff returns to the Gas South District on Saturday, November 21, when the big tree outside the convention center lights up to the sounds of food trucks, music, activities and a gift drive for families in need. It is free to attend, and it doubles as opening night for the Georgia Festival of Trees right next door, making it one of the brightest ways to begin the holiday season within an easy drive of Apalachee Farms.
Source: Gwinnett Glows on the Gas South District , Georgia Festival of Trees 2026 daily schedule
Vintage Market Days of Greater Atlanta: Holly Jolly
Gwinnett County Fairgrounds, 2405 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Greater Atlanta edition of this popular upscale vintage market sets up at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds for a Holly Jolly weekend of vintage and vintage-inspired finds, handmade gifts and seasonal decor. With three full days of browsing on the way to Thanksgiving, it is a wonderful stop for anyone who loves a treasure hunt or likes to get a head start on holiday shopping.
Source: Vintage Market Days of Greater Atlanta: Holly Jolly , Vintage Market Days official market page
Lilburn Holiday Lights and Flight Fest
Lilburn City Park, 340 Main Street, Lilburn, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Lilburn City Park closes out its fall season with an afternoon of holiday treats and crafts, photos with Santa, a tree lighting and a coordinated drone show lighting up the sky over the park. It is a free small-town celebration with a big finale, and the kind of family-friendly evening that makes the season feel officially underway.
Source: Holiday Lights and Flight Fest on the City of Lilburn , Guide to Gwinnett tree lightings on Explore Gwinnett
Flowery Branch Christmas Tree Lighting and Lantern Parade
Downtown Flowery Branch along Railroad Avenue, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Downtown Flowery Branch glows along Railroad Avenue when the community tree lights up and a lantern parade winds through the streets, with music and festive activities filling the little railroad town. It is a cozy, picture-perfect way to welcome the holiday season near the shores of Lake Lanier, and close enough for an easy Friday night drive from Dacula.
Loganville Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
Downtown Loganville and the Town Green, 235 Main Street, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Loganville's Christmas parade fills downtown with floats and local groups at 6 PM, followed by the tree lighting on the Town Green. It is a classic small-town holiday night out, and with the parade stepping off the Saturday after Thanksgiving, it is a gentle way to ease into back-to-back weeks of holiday fun.
Source: City of Loganville community events , Loganville Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting on Eventeny
Norcross Holiday Celebration
Thrasher Park, Norcross, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Thrasher Park hosts the Norcross holiday celebration with Santa, live entertainment, children's activities and the first glow of the season's lights in the park. Part of the city's HoliDAYS lineup, it is a warm, walkable evening in one of Gwinnett's most charming historic squares.
Source: Holiday Celebration on the City of Norcross , Norcross Holiday Celebration on Explore Gwinnett
Christmas in Grayson
Grayson City Park, 475 Grayson Parkway, Grayson, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Free holiday crafts, performances by Grayson's school groups, Santa and train rides fill Grayson City Park on the first Sunday of December. It is a sweet, laid-back afternoon the whole family can enjoy, and it sits close enough to Dacula to make a lovely Sunday outing.
Source: Christmas in Grayson on Explore Gwinnett , Grayson events on Explore Georgia
Santa's Magical Arrival at Lanier Islands
Lanier Islands Resort, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford, about 35 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Santa arrives at Lanier Islands Resort by boat for the holiday season on Friday, November 27, kicking off a run of festive appearances and family activities through the season. It is a charming way to pair a visit with Santa with the glow of Magical Nights of Lights, and kids who love the water will not want to miss his grand entrance.
Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
Gas South Theater, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Whoville comes to the Gas South Theater when the stage adaptation of Dr. Seuss' holiday classic plays a Sunday matinee in Duluth. With the familiar songs, festive mischief and the Grinch's change of heart, it is a perfect early-November outing for young Apalachee Farms families ready to start feeling festive.
Gwinnett County Veterans Day Ceremony
Fallen Heroes Memorial, 75 Langley Drive, Lawrenceville, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Gwinnett County pauses on Veterans Day for its annual ceremony at the Fallen Heroes Memorial behind the Justice and Administration Center in Lawrenceville, a dignified 11 AM gathering to honor those who served. It is a meaningful, free way for Apalachee Farms families to mark the holiday and teach the next generation what the day is really about.
Source: Gwinnett County hosts annual Veterans Day ceremony , Veterans Day Ceremony on Explore Gwinnett
12th Annual Gwinnett Gobble Wobble 5K
Little Mulberry Park, 3855 Fence Road NE, Dacula
Apalachee Farms' own Thanksgiving morning tradition returns for its 12th year at Little Mulberry Park, with an untimed family 5K and a timed 5K on the park's paved paths, plus music, door prizes, long-sleeve race shirts and post-race treats. Runners are asked to bring canned goods: the race benefits The Pantry at Hamilton Mill UMC, Feeding the Valley Food Bank and other local food ministries, a warm way to begin a day of gratitude right in Dacula.
Source: Gwinnett Gobble Wobble official race site , 12th Annual Gwinnett Gobble Wobble on Active
Martin Lawrence Comedy Night at Gas South Arena
Gas South Arena, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Comedian Martin Lawrence brings his national tour to the Gas South Arena in early December, with Nate Jackson, Desi Banks and more on the bill. A big-laughs night out on the closest arena stage to Dacula, it is a fun way for grown-ups to balance out the season's family activities, and tickets are available through the venue's official listings.
The Nutcracker by Gwinnett Ballet Theatre
Gas South Theater, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Gwinnett Ballet Theatre's beloved Nutcracker returns to the Gas South Theater for a full run of December performances, and the December 11-12 evening shows are presented as The Nutcracker: The Encore Experience. It is the closest full-scale Nutcracker to Dacula and a delightful way for families to make the ballet a holiday tradition.
Source: The Nutcracker at Gas South District , Gas South Theater events on Ticketmaster
Lilburn Christmas Parade
Old Town Lilburn, Main Street, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Lilburn's official holiday parade steps down Main Street through Old Town on the second Saturday of December, with floats, bands and community groups filling the classic route. It pairs neatly with the town's other December festivities and makes a cheerful weekend outing in a walkable historic downtown close to Dacula.
23rd Annual Christmas Arts and Crafts Festival in Sugar Hill
Sugar Hill, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Sugar Hill's long-running Christmas arts and crafts festival brings local makers and early holiday gift ideas together mid-November, getting the shopping season started with a distinctly small-town feel. It is a handy first stop on the holiday circuit, close enough for a quick morning browse without eating the whole day.
Source: Sugar Hill Patch calendar: 23rd Annual Christmas Arts & Crafts Festival
Sugar Hill Holiday Celebration
The Landing, downtown Sugar Hill, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Sugar Hill turns its downtown into a holiday gathering at The Landing with free photos with Santa, a vendor market, hot chocolate and a little manufactured snow, with visits from the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who rounding out the fun. The city has posted the December 13 date on its official holiday pages, so Apalachee Farms families can plan the outing now.
Source: Holiday Celebration on the City of Sugar Hill , Holiday Celebration on Downtown Sugar Hill , Official Christmas Guide to Gwinnett on Explore Gwinnett
Holiday 5K, 10K and Half Marathon at Little Mulberry Park
Little Mulberry Park, 3855 Fence Road NE, Dacula
The December edition of the seasonal race series at Dacula's own Little Mulberry Park offers a festive 5K, 10K and half marathon with themed finisher medals for runners and walkers alike. It lands the same weekend the town is at its holiday best, and it is a cheerful way to earn a little extra season spirit before the day's hot chocolate.
Source: Holiday 5K, 10K and 13.1M at Dacula on US Road Running , Summit Run Co. running events
Summit Showdown 10 Mile and 5K at Little Mulberry Park
Little Mulberry Park, 3855 Fence Road NE, Dacula
Part of the Mulberry Madness trail series, the Summit Showdown sends trail runners over the hills of Little Mulberry Park with 10-mile and 5K options. It is a friendly, well-marked trail day right in Dacula, and mid-December is a lovely time to see the park's woods at their crispest before winter settles in.
The Whoville Hustle Christmas Eve Run
Little Mulberry Park, 3855 Fence Road NE, Dacula
A Christmas Eve tradition in the making, the Whoville Hustle pairs a 5K with a family fun run at Little Mulberry Park, with proceeds benefiting the Feeding the Valley Food Bank. It is a heartwarming way to start the holiday morning together before the wrapping paper takes over the living room.
Art-Tiques Holiday Market in Buford
Buford Town Park and Theatre, Buford, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Art and antiques meet holiday shopping when the Art-Tiques Holiday Market fills Buford's Town Park and Theatre with vintage finds and one-of-a-kind gifts the Saturday before Thanksgiving. It is a lovely complement to the town's holiday festival season, and an easy morning out for anyone who loves a treasure hunt.
Nashville Noel Holiday Show in Buford
Buford Town Center, 2200 Buford Highway, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Country and holiday favorites meet on stage when Nashville Noel brings a festive night of music to Buford Town Center in mid-December. It is an evening out for the grown-ups, a little seasonal sparkle for the parents while the family calendar fills up with Santa events.
Celtic Angels Christmas Show in Buford
Buford Town Center, 2200 Buford Highway, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Celtic Angels bring an evening of Irish and Christmas music to Buford Town Center on a December Friday, a lively blend of strings, voices and seasonal favorites. It is a warm, toe-tapping way to spend a holiday evening close to home, and tickets are listed on the venue's holiday calendar.
Christmas Canteen at the Aurora Theatre
Lawrenceville Arts Center, 128 East Pike Street, Lawrenceville, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Aurora Theatre's holiday revue returns with its familiar mix of music, comedy and seasonal cheer, a long-running favorite for Gwinnett families looking for a festive night out. It runs from mid-November through the week before Christmas, with the full schedule posted on the arts center's pages.
Source: Lawrenceville Christmas shows 2026 , Aurora Theatre productions and programs
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Holiday Showcase
Gas South Theater, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra brings its holiday showcase to the Gas South Theater in December, a polished evening of seasonal orchestral favorites on the closest big stage to Dacula. It is a lovely way to hear the season in full concert form, and tickets are available through the venue's official listings.
Source: Gas South Theater events at Gas South District , Christmas events in Duluth in December on AllEvents
A Charlie Brown Christmas Live in Duluth
Red Clay Music Foundry, 3116 Main Street, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The beloved Peanuts holiday story takes the stage at the Red Clay Music Foundry with live jazz from the Vince Guaraldi score, a charming evening for anyone who grew up with the special. It is listed on the venue's December calendar, and it is a cozy way to share the season with the whole family.
Swapna Vijayam's Nutcracker Ballet in Suwanee
Suwanee Town Center, 330 Town Center Avenue, Suwanee, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The classical dance company Swapna Vijayam presents its Nutcracker Ballet at Suwanee Town Center in mid-December, a distinctive, colorful retelling of the holiday classic. It is listed on the City of Suwanee's official calendar, and it offers a delightful new way to see an old favorite.
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan: Once Upon A Time
Gas South Arena, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
One of the most celebrated voices of the subcontinent, widely known for the Coke Studio hit Afreen Afreen, brings his Once Upon A Time tour to the Gas South Arena on the first Friday of November. It is a rare chance on the closest big stage to Dacula to hear classical and Sufi masterworks sung live, and the kind of concert night that lingers long after the encore.
Source: Gas South District official events calendar , Gas South Arena events on the Duluth Arena calendar
Atlanta International Night Market
Lillian Webb Park, 5 College Street, Norcross, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Norcross closes out its event season with an international night market on the Lillian Webb Park lawn, a weekend of global food vendors, performances and family fun that turns the Gwinnett fall calendar into a world tour. It opens the Gwinnett holiday season on the county's official events calendar, and it is a colorful, flavorful way to spend a fall evening a short drive from Dacula.
A Kindred Collective Christmas
Wink Wynne Lodge at Eagle Ranch, Flowery Branch, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
A holiday shopping night lands in the gorgeous lodge at Eagle Ranch just outside Flowery Branch, bringing local makers and festive gift ideas together under one roof in the week before Thanksgiving. It is listed among the Dacula-area holiday events on Eventbrite, and it is a warm, close-to-home way to start the gift list with something handmade.
Banda MS: Somos MS Tour 2026
Gas South Arena, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
One of Mexican regional music's biggest bands brings its Somos MS Tour 2026 to the Gas South Arena mid-month, a full night of the horns and romantic ballads that have made Banda MS a global phenomenon. For fans of regional Mexican music in the Apalachee Farms area, it is one of the fall's can't-miss arena dates, and tickets are available through the arena's official listings.
Source: Gas South District official events calendar , Gas South Arena events on the Duluth Arena calendar
Suwanee Chili Cook Off & Music Festival
Suwanee Town Center Park, 330 Town Center Avenue, Suwanee, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Suwanee turns up the heat mid-November with its annual chili cook off and music festival at Town Center Park, a savory afternoon of tasting, live music and family fun on the lawn. It is listed on the City of Suwanee's community calendar, and it pairs beautifully with the town's wine fest earlier in the month for a full season at the park.
Source: City of Suwanee community events calendar , 2026 Georgia Festival Guide
Tree Lighting at The Forum in Peachtree Corners
The Forum, 5155 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners, about 30 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Peachtree Corners lights its community tree at The Forum on the Sunday before Thanksgiving, an evening of carols and warm lights in the open-air shopping district. It is listed on Explore Gwinnett's annual guide to tree lightings, and it rounds out a full weekend of countywide holiday kickoffs within an easy drive of Dacula.
Source: Guide to Gwinnett tree lightings on Explore Gwinnett
Emmanuel Cantata
Gas South Theater, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
A full Christmas cantata takes the Gas South Theater stage the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, an evening of seasonal choral music that opens the holidays from the first notes. It is an easy way for Apalachee Farms families to hear the season in concert form while the whole month of December still stretches ahead.
The Nutcracker by Northeast Atlanta Ballet
Gas South Theater, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Northeast Atlanta Ballet dances its Nutcracker onto the Gas South Theater stage the night after Thanksgiving, an early, twinkly first Nutcracker of the season for families who cannot wait for the December runs. It pairs with the Gwinnett Ballet Theatre's longer December engagement, which means two chances to catch the holiday classic within easy reach of Dacula.
Source: Gas South Theater events at Gas South District , Gas South Arena events on the Duluth Arena calendar
The Arrival: A Christmas Experience
Gas South Arena, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
A theatrical Christmas experience takes over the Gas South Arena in mid-December, a full-scale holiday production that fills the closest big stage to Dacula with seasonal spectacle. It is one of the newest additions to the arena's holiday lineup, and tickets are listed on the venue's official calendar.
Source: Gas South District official events calendar , Gas South Arena events on Live Nation
The Atlanta Cup 2026
Gas South Arena, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
American tennis stars Tommy Paul, Taylor Fritz, Taylor Townsend and Amanda Anisimova headline the second annual Atlanta Cup at the Gas South Arena, a pro exhibition whose 2025 debut drew more than 7,300 fans. It is an easy drive from Dacula and a lively way to see world-class tennis close to home, with tickets on sale now through the official Atlanta Cup site.
Source: The Atlanta Cup 2026 at Gas South District , The Atlanta Cup official site
Star of Wonder 2026 by Buford School of Ballet
Gas South Theater, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Buford School of Ballet brings its holiday showcase Star of Wonder to the Gas South Theater for a four-day run in late November, with matinee performances on Saturday for families with little ones. It is a gentle, twinkly way to open the season's dance calendar before the Nutcracker runs take over the same stage.
Source: Gas South Theater events at Gas South District , Gas South Theater tickets on Ticketmaster
Grinch on the Green at The Village at Mall of Georgia
The Village at Mall of Georgia, 3333 Buford Drive, Buford, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Grinch makes a free appearance on The Village green at Mall of Georgia on the Sunday before Christmas Eve, a playful, photo-friendly stop on the holiday calendar listed in Explore Gwinnett's official Christmas guide. It is a cheerful, low-cost way to mark the countdown to Christmas with the kids.
Source: Grinch on the Green on Explore Gwinnett , The Official Christmas Guide to Gwinnett County
Holiday Punch 2026 at Lionheart Theatre
Lionheart Theatre, Historic Downtown Norcross, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Gwinnett's oldest community theatre serves up Holiday Punch, eight short family-friendly plays celebrating the season, on its historic downtown Norcross stage in mid-December. It is a warm, intimate alternative to the big arena shows, and an evening in Norcross's walkable downtown is part of the charm.
Source: Lionheart Theatre 2026 season , Holidays in Gwinnett on Explore Gwinnett
Complimentary Downtown Norcross Carriage Rides
Historic Downtown Norcross, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Downtown Norcross offers free horse-drawn carriage rides on Thursday and Friday evenings through mid-December, an unhurried way to see the town's holiday lights with the family. It is a lovely, no-cost December tradition within an easy drive of Dacula, listed on Explore Gwinnett's holiday guide.
Source: Holidays in Gwinnett on Explore Gwinnett , The Official Christmas Guide to Gwinnett County
Atlanta Gladiators Home Hockey at Gas South Arena
Gas South Arena, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Gwinnett's ECHL hockey team plays a busy home slate at the Gas South Arena through the fall, with weekend games that make for an affordable, family-friendly night out. Between the holiday concerts, the arena's hockey calendar gives Apalachee Farms sports fans a regular reason to head to Duluth.
Source: Gas South District official events calendar , Gas South Arena events on the Duluth Arena calendar
The Winter Pour: A Christmas Mingle Experience
George Pierce Park Community Center, 55 Buford Highway, Suwanee, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Winter Pour turns the George Pierce Park Community Center in Suwanee into a grown-up holiday mingling spot on the first Saturday of December, with seasonal pours and festive cheer for the adults. It is listed on Eventbrite's Dacula-area Christmas events page, and it pairs nicely with the family events filling the same weekend.
Mark Your Calendar: Confirmed Dates Across the Season
Alongside the newest additions above, the rest of the confirmed season stays busy. Halloween weekend rounds out October with the Dia de los Muertos Festival, the Halloween Path Parade and the town's family carnivals; the Gobbler races at Little Mulberry Park, the Harvest Festival on the Lawrenceville Lawn, Ernie Haase and Signature Sound in Hoschton, the Suwanee Wine Fest, the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds shows and the Veterans Day ceremony open November; and December fills in with Brunch with Santa, the Cravin' Bacon Walk, the Chateau Elan tree lighting, Jolly Holly Day, Deck the Hall, Winder's tree lighting and Christmas parade, the Magical Nights of Lights at Lake Lanier and The Light Park at Gwinnett Field. Here is where to point the car over the next few weekends.
Brunch with Santa
Braselton Civic Center, 134 Harrison Street, Braselton, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Braselton's holiday season gets a gentle, family-first start with a morning brunch with Santa at the Braselton Civic Center, listed on the town's official holidays page. It is a warm way to ease the kids into the season while the town is still glowing from its Thanksgiving-week tree lighting.
Source: Holidays in Braselton on Explore Braselton , Explore Braselton event list
Cravin' Bacon Walk in Downtown Braselton
The Mill, 1000 Broad Street, Braselton, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The bacon-themed tasting walk winds through downtown Braselton's restaurants and shops on the first Thursday of December, a cozy food crawl with a holiday glow. It is a favorite on the town's official holiday calendar and a fun way to turn dinner out into a little seasonal wandering.
Source: Holidays in Braselton on Explore Braselton , Explore Braselton event list
Chateau Elan Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
The Atrium at The Inn, Chateau Elan Winery and Resort, 100 Rue Charlemagne Drive, Braselton, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The resort that anchors Braselton's wine country lights its grand Christmas tree in The Atrium at The Inn with an evening of holiday music, warm lights and festive spirit, open to resort guests and the local community. It is one of the prettiest seasonal evenings in the area and a lovely way to open the first full December weekend.
Source: Holidays in Braselton on Explore Braselton , Chateau Elan's Annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Explore Braselton
The Night Before Christmas Benefit Concert
Braselton, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
A holiday benefit concert lands mid-December in Braselton, pairing seasonal music with a good cause as the town counts down to Christmas. Details and ticket links are posted on the town's official holiday event listings.
Source: Holidays in Braselton on Explore Braselton , Explore Braselton event list
Christmas @ Countryside Holiday Market
Countryside Antiques, Braselton, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
A Christmas market at the longtime Countryside Antiques venue brings holiday shopping with a vintage feel to Braselton, with vendors, seasonal decor and one-of-a-kind gifts. It is listed on the Vintage Markets calendar of the region's regular holiday shows.
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound in Concert
North Metro Baptist Church, 1047 Highway 124, Hoschton, about 10 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The award-winning Southern gospel quartet Ernie Haase & Signature Sound brings its Evening of Christmas, Gospel & Patriotic Songs tour to Hoschton in November, a full concert at North Metro Baptist Church just up Highway 124 from Dacula. Tickets are available through the group's tour listings, and it is a warm way to welcome the holiday season with the family.
Source: AllEvents: Hoschton events listing , Ernie Haase & Signature Sound on iTickets , North Metro Baptist Church official site
Buford Holiday Festival & Parade
Downtown Buford, 301 East Main Street, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Downtown Buford celebrates the season with a holiday parade stepping off at 10 AM, followed by live stage performers, food trucks, vendors, a holiday dog contest and bouncy houses. It is a full Sunday in a walkable historic downtown, and an easy drive from Dacula.
Source: Buford Holiday Festival and Parade on Eventeny , Buford Holiday Festival & Parade on Explore Gwinnett
Jolly Holly Day in Suwanee
Suwanee Town Center Park, 330 Town Center Avenue, Suwanee, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The City of Suwanee lights up Town Center Park for Jolly Holly Day with holiday fun for all ages, and the Suwanee Arts Center's Jolly Holly Festival weekend adds live entertainment, Santa and Grinch photo opportunities and the Run Run Rudolph 5K. It is a cheerful early-December outing in one of Gwinnett's prettiest town centers.
Source: Jolly Holly Day 2026 on Eventeny , Jolly Holly Festival on the Suwanee Arts Center site
Atlanta Christkindl Market at the Lawrenceville Lawn
The Lawrenceville Lawn, 210 Luckie Street, Lawrenceville, about 25 minutes from Dacula
The German American Cultural Foundation has confirmed the Lawrenceville market's 2026 run: five weeks of European-style holiday shopping opening the Friday before Thanksgiving, November 20, and running through Christmas Eve, December 24. Free admission, mulled wine, holiday gifts and the glow of the market make it a favorite December destination, and organizers are opening a second Georgia location in Senoia on Black Friday this year.
Source: Atlanta Christkindl Market Lawrenceville official page , Christkindl Market on Explore Gwinnett , Atlanta Christkindl Market in Lawrenceville on Mommy Poppins
Georgia Festival of Trees
Gas South Convention Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Dacula
The state's premier holiday tree festival fills the Gas South Convention Center with dozens of decorated trees, festive displays and family activities, and its opening weekend now pairs with the free Gwinnett Glows tree lighting on the same grounds. The official 2026 schedule runs November 20-29 with Thanksgiving closures on November 25-26, making it a bright, indoor way to ease into the season when the weather starts to turn.
Source: Georgia Festival of Trees official site , Georgia Festival of Trees 2026 schedule
Deck the Hall in Downtown Duluth
Downtown Duluth and the Town Green, 3142 Hill Street, Duluth
The City of Duluth free holiday kickoff brings the community tree lighting, a real snow playground with a giant snow slide, Santa photo opportunities, holiday crafts, live music and carolers, a holiday market and food trucks to the Town Green. It is a picture-perfect way to spend the first Saturday of December, and the most complete holiday kickoff within an easy drive of Apalachee Farms.
Source: City of Duluth: Deck the Hall , Deck the Hall on Ready Set Gwinnett
Winder Holiday Tree Lighting
Downtown Winder, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The City of Winder's official calendar lights up downtown for the season on the Friday before Thanksgiving week. Carols, cocoa and the community tree mark the start of the holidays in Barrow County's seat, an easy evening drive from Dacula and a lovely kickoff for the weeks ahead.
77th Annual Winder Christmas Parade
Downtown Winder, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Nearly eight decades old, Winder's Christmas parade steps off downtown on Saturday, December 12 with floats and bands, and Santa's After Party with the Kids Markets follows at Jug Tavern Park just after 2:30 PM. The city posted the December 12 date on its official calendar and event listing, and the after party makes it easy to turn the parade into a full downtown afternoon.
Source: City of Winder festivals and events page , Winder Christmas Parade on Eventeny
Magical Nights of Lights at Lake Lanier
Lanier Islands, off Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford, about 35 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The drive-through holiday light tour at Lanier Islands returns for the season: six miles of animated lights tuned to festive music, ending at Holiday Headquarters with cocoa, games and seasonal fun. It is a beloved North Georgia tradition and a spectacular way to spend a crisp winter evening with the family.
Source: Magical Nights of Lights at Lake Lanier event page , Lanier Islands official holiday events
The Light Park at Gwinnett Field
Gwinnett Field at Coolray Field, 2500 Buford Drive, Lawrenceville, about 20 minutes from Dacula
The Gwinnett Stripers' brand-new walk-through holiday light experience has confirmed its debut run: millions of LED lights fill Gwinnett Field from November 13 through January 3, with immersive paths, holiday lights, market vendors, rides and food on site. It is the freshest addition to the area's light-show lineup, tickets are on sale in advance, and it carries the season straight through New Year's.
Source: The Light Park at Gwinnett Field on Explore Gwinnett , The Light Park Lawrenceville location page , Gwinnett Stripers announce The Light Park
Gwinnett County Fairgrounds Fall Shows
Gwinnett County Fairgrounds, 2405 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville, about 15 miles from Dacula
The fairgrounds stay busy long after the fair closes. The RK Lawrenceville Gun Show returns November 28-29, and the Expo Center calendar keeps filling in with shows through the fall and holiday season. There is usually something for every taste on the calendar.
Source: Gwinnett County Fairgrounds event schedule , Gwinnett County Fairgrounds Expo Center schedule , Lawrenceville Gun and Knife Show on Gun Shows USA
Gobbler 5K, 10K and 13.1M at Little Mulberry Park
Little Mulberry Park, 3855 Fence Road NE, Dacula
The Thanksgiving-themed Gobbler series brings 5K, 10K and half-marathon options to Little Mulberry Park just days before the holiday arrives. It is an easy, cheerful way to begin the month of gratitude, and registration is online in advance through RunSignup.
Source: Gobbler 5K, 10K and 13.1M on RunSignup , US Road Running Dacula race calendar
Harvest Festival at the Lawrenceville Lawn
The Lawrenceville Lawn, 210 Luckie Street, Lawrenceville, about 25 minutes from Dacula
Downtown Lawrenceville's fall arts celebration brings homegrown music, a Great Pumpkin Smash, more than 200 vendors and artisans, and food trucks to the lawn for an easy afternoon out. It is a vibrant, family-friendly way to spend the first Saturday of November, and entry is free.
Source: Harvest Festival on the Downtown Lawrenceville calendar , Harvest Festival on Explore Gwinnett
Halloween Path Parade and Carnival
Begins at S&S Ace Hardware, 3740 Village Way, Braselton, with the carnival on the Braselton LifePath
Braselton's family Halloween tradition lines up a costumed parade through town, then rolls into a carnival on the Braselton LifePath with games and treats for the kids. It is a sweet way to spend Halloween morning close to home before the evening's trick-or-treating begins.
Source: Halloween Path Parade and Carnival on Explore Braselton , Braselton events on Explore Georgia
Celebrate the Holidays in Braselton
Historic Downtown Braselton, 9924 Davis Street, Braselton, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Historic downtown Braselton kicks off the season with a holiday parade, a festive vendor village on the Town Green and an evening tree lighting, with the 2026 theme Magic of the Holidays. It is a lovely early taste of the season and a perfect warm-up for the bigger December celebrations in Dacula.
Source: Braselton events on Explore Georgia , Braselton city events on Explore Georgia
Pushing Daisies LIVE at Del Rio
Del Rio Mexican Grill, Dacula, listed on the Dacula area events calendar
A live music night at Del Rio in Dacula proper gets a holiday-adjacent kick on the Friday before Halloween, with Pushing Daisies on stage for a fun local show. It is a great example of how the town keeps its evenings lively close to home.
Source: Dacula area events listing
Braselton Holiday Lights Trolley Tours
Departs from 6322 Grand Hickory Drive, Braselton, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Climb aboard for a rolling tour of Braselton's holiday lights, a cozy December evening ride that shows off the town at its most festive. It is a lovely family outing and a gentle way to add a little hometown wonder to the season.
Lawrenceville Lights
First United Methodist Church, 700 Braselton Highway, Lawrenceville, about 20 minutes from Dacula
A free drive-through holiday light display frames the church grounds with glowing holiday scenes on two December weekends, timed for a slow, warm drive with the family. Hot cocoa weather, holiday music and lights for miles make it an easy December tradition.
Source: Guide to Gwinnett tree lightings on Explore Gwinnett , Lawrenceville Lights on First United Methodist Church
EquiSol Winter Solstice 5K
Snellville, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The EquiSol Race Series closes out its year of seasonal runs with a winter solstice 5K, a friendly, all-paces course in Snellville timed to the turning of the seasons. It is a cheerful way to greet the shortest day of the year and see one more Gwinnett park at its best.
Source: Winter Solstice 5K on RunSignup
Watch for Official Dacula Announcements
Newly posted fall dates appear on the City of Dacula news page and its community calendar. If you see an event listed here without a firm date yet, this is where the city posts it first.
Newly Confirmed: Harvest Season Favorites
Fall around Gwinnett means pumpkin patches, corn mazes and festival weekends, and the big favorites now have their 2026 seasons locked in. These give Apalachee Farms families a full menu of autumn outings within an easy drive.
Randy's Pumpkin Patch
1460 Lawrenceville Highway, Lawrenceville, about 20 minutes from Dacula
Randy's pumpkin patch has its 2026 season confirmed from October 1 through November 1, with weekday evening hours and longer weekend hours. It sits close enough to Dacula to make an easy first trip of the season, and weekend afternoons are a low-effort way to kick off fall with the family.
Source: Randy's Pumpkin Patch official site , Explore Gwinnett fall festivals guide
Buford Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch
4470 Bennett Road, Buford, about 10 miles from Dacula
One of the area's biggest autumn traditions, the Buford Corn Maze has 2026 tickets on sale now and a season that opens in early September and runs into November. Evenings on the maze grounds, packed with festival lights, make it a repeat favorite for Apalachee Farms families.
Source: Buford Corn Maze 2026 tickets , Buford Corn Maze listing
Holiday Happenings Around the Corner
Dacula knows how to close out the year,and these traditions are worth marking on your calendar. Exact 2026 dates are typically announced in the fall as the city gears up for December.
Dacula Tree Lighting Ceremony
Dacula City Hall, 442 Harbins Road
The city kicks off the holiday season with carols, dance performances, cookies, hot cocoa,and Santa himself around the community tree. Recent years drew big crowds, so arriving a little early pays off.
Source: City of Dacula tree lighting page , City of Dacula tree lighting overview
Dacula Christmas Parade
Parade route through Dacula
Floats from local schools, businesses,and community groups, marching bands,and a final appearance by Santa marks the official start of the holiday season. Families line the route year after year,and it is an especially sweet way to introduce new neighbors to Dacula traditions.
Glow Light Show at Coolray Field
Coolray Field, 2500 Buford Drive, Lawrenceville, about 20 minutes from Dacula
The drive-through holiday light display wrapped in sound has confirmed its 2026-27 run at Coolray Field: more than a million LED lights turn the ballpark into a glowing holiday drive from November 14 through January 4. It is a warm, inside-the-car way to see the season in lights, and it pairs beautifully with the new Light Park on the same grounds.
Source: Glow Light Show official site , Explore Gwinnett: The Official Christmas Guide to Gwinnett County
Gwinnett County Lighting of the Great Tree
Gwinnett Historic Courthouse Lawn, 185 West Crogan Street, Lawrenceville, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The county's long-running holiday tradition lights the great tree on the Historic Courthouse lawn on Thanksgiving evening, with carols, cocoa, crafts and the official start of the season in Lawrenceville. This year's edition is set for Thursday, November 26, so the whole family can plan the evening now.
Source: City of Lawrenceville: Lighting of the Great Tree , City of Lawrenceville news: Lighting of the Great Tree , Official Christmas guide to Gwinnett on Explore Gwinnett
Weekend Markets and Fresh Local Produce
One of the quiet joys of living in Apalachee Farms is how close good food grows. These Dacula-area markets and farm stands keep the season fresh, many running spring through fall and closing out as the holidays arrive.
Dacula Local Market
Dacula
A weekend gathering of local vendors with fresh produce, plants,and pantry staples. Hours shift seasonally, so confirm with the market before you plan your trip.
Source: Gold Peach Realty farmers markets guide , Green In Gwinnett farmers market roundup
Dacula Briarpatch
2503 Cammie Wages Road, Dacula
A certified Georgia farm produce stand known for apples, blackberries, blueberries, figs, muscadine grapes, plums,and seasonal vegetables. A favorite stop for Apalachee Farms residents who like to cook with the seasons.
Source: Blue Book Services farm listing , Georgia Dept of Agriculture certified market page
Alegre Farm Market
2225 Givens Road, Dacula
A local farm market with online ordering for seasonal produce; orders are typically placed midweek and picked up later in the week. A convenient option for busy families.
Source: Alegre Farm shop
Duluth Farmers & Artisan Market
Duluth Town Green, 3142 Hill Street, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Dacula
The City of Duluth brings local farmers, makers and artisans to the Town Green on the first and third Sundays of the month through the fall, and the two remaining 2026 dates are locked in. It is a lovely way to round out a Sunday afternoon close to Apalachee Farms while fall produce is still at its best.
Source: City of Duluth Farmers & Artisan Market page , City of Duluth community events
Braselton Farmers Market Fall Dates
Braselton Town Green, 9924 Davis Street, Braselton, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The weekly Braselton Farmers Market winds down for the season with a final fall date on the Braselton Town Green: the November 6 market runs 3 to 6 PM as the days grow short. A nice excuse for a Friday browse and a walk around the green.
Source: Braselton Farmers Market on Explore Braselton , Braselton Farmers Market on Explore Georgia
Lawrenceville Winter Farmers Market
Lawrenceville, about 25 minutes from Dacula
When the summer market season ends, Lawrenceville's winter market keeps local produce and vendors going on select Saturday mornings through the cooler months. The Explore Gwinnett farmers market guide lists the winter schedule, and it is a good reason to keep the Saturday-morning routine alive all year round.
Suwanee Winter Farmers Market
Town Center on Main and DeLay Nature Park, 421 Main Street, Suwanee, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
When the summer market season winds down, Suwanee keeps the Saturday routine going with a winter market of fresh produce, baked goods and meats on select Saturday mornings through April. The City of Suwanee posts each season's dates on its official farmers market page, and it is a lovely reason to keep the weekend errand a little more local.
Source: City of Suwanee farmers market page , Suwanee Farmers Market 2026 on Eventeny
Lilburn Farmers Market Holiday Pop-Up Market
Lilburn, about 25 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Lilburn's producer-only farmers market, which normally runs Friday evenings from May through August, returns for a holiday pop-up on the Saturday before Thanksgiving with seasonal produce and handmade gifts. It is a small, friendly market with a loyal following, and a nice way to shop local while the holiday lists grow.
Live Music And a Night Out
The season's music calendar is stacked from here through the holidays: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan brings his Once Upon A Time tour to the Gas South Arena on November 6, Sugarland plays the arena on November 7, the Dr. Seuss Grinch musical fills the Gas South Theater on November 8, Banda MS brings its Somos MS Tour on November 14, the Emmanuel Cantata sings at the Gas South Theater on November 24, for KING + COUNTRY brings A Drummer Boy Christmas on November 27 and December 5, Martin Lawrence brings his comedy tour to the Gas South Arena on December 5, the Northeast Atlanta Ballet's Nutcracker dances on November 27 at the theater, The Arrival: A Christmas Experience fills the arena on December 12, Trans-Siberian Orchestra's The Ghosts of Christmas Eve lights up the arena on December 13, the Jazz Legacy Project and Michelle Malone play the Red Clay Music Foundry on December 2 and 18, and Joe Gransden swings through the foundry on December 21. For a rolling view of what is playing around town, the Dacula listings on Bandsintown stay current week to week: Pushing Daisies brings a Halloween-weekend show to Del Rio in Dacula proper on October 30, and the listings keep filling in as venues post dates.
Swingin' Through the Holidays with Joe Gransden
Red Clay Music Foundry, 3116 Main Street, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Dacula
Eddie Owen Presents brings the Atlanta trumpeter and vocalist Joe Gransden to the Red Clay Music Foundry in Duluth for a holiday evening of swinging standards and seasonal favorites. It is a polished, cozy way to close out the concert year, and one of the loveliest December stages within an easy drive of Apalachee Farms.
Source: Swingin' Through the Holidays on Explore Gwinnett , Discover Atlanta event listing
Jazz Legacy Project
Red Clay Music Foundry, 3116 Main Street, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
The Jazz Legacy Project brings its signature blend of story and song to the Red Clay Music Foundry in early December, a night that unpacks the lives behind some of jazz's most beloved music. It is the kind of warm, intimate concert that makes the foundry one of the best small stages in Gwinnett, and a lovely midweek escape for music-loving Apalachee Farms residents.
Michelle Malone
Red Clay Music Foundry, 3116 Main Street, Duluth, about 20 minutes from Apalachee Farms
Atlanta roots-rock favorite Michelle Malone plays the Red Clay Music Foundry on a December Friday, a homegrown night of bluesy Americana from one of the city's most respected singer-songwriters. It is a warm, toe-tapping way to wind down the year on a small stage minutes from Dacula, and the foundry's December calendar is worth a browse for the whole season.
For live music, the easiest way to see what is playing around town is the rolling Dacula concert listings on Bandsintown.
Closer to home,37 Main on Buford's Historic Main Street, about 15 minutes from Apalachee Farms, hosts free live music every Thursday alongside its kitchen and bar, and its event calendar keeps filling in with weekend shows as the season rolls on. It is the kind of low-key night out that feels a world away from the weekday routine, and the venue's page is worth a look whenever you are planning a night out.
Around Apalachee Farms: In-Community Happenings
Beyond town events, Apalachee Farms keeps its own social calendar busy. These community gatherings, organized by the Social Committee, are among the traditions that make the neighborhood feel like home. Exact dates are shared with residents first, but here is what typically fills the fall calendar.
Thanksgiving Neighbors' Potluck
Annual potluck dinner at the clubhouse where residents share dishes and gratitude.
Holiday Light Decorating Contest
Neighborhood competition for the best holiday light display across all five sections.
You will find more detail on these community traditions in our fall guide,our community news page,and our holiday events post.
Public golf outingsand member happenings at the Trophy Club of Apalachee are posted on the course's official site. As of early October the club's calendar had not yet listed dated public events, and its outings are typically booked by reservation, so check back as the season unfolds and confirm directly with the course.
Before You Head Out
- Confirm dates and times with the organizer before you head out. Small-town events often post updates closer to the date.
- Arrive early for parking, especially at the Celebrate the Holidays festival in Braselton, the Harvest Festival on the Lawrenceville Lawn and the tree lighting ceremonies.
- Bring chairs and blankets for outdoor evening events like the tree lighting.
- Watch the City of Dacula news page for newly announced fall dates, and the Explore Gwinnett tree lightings guide for December happenings like Lawrenceville Lights. This guide refreshes as organizers confirm details.
Explore Dacula This Fall
Whether you are new to Apalachee Farms or have been here for years, there is always a reason to get out and enjoy the community. If you are thinking about making Dacula home, Lisa Harris can share what living here is really like season by season.