Atlanta Parent_November 2022

HAVE

WHOLEFAMILYCARE

Keeping everyone in your circle healthy is your top priority — and ours, too. At Wellstar, it’s easy to stay well with world-class providers, convenient locations close to home and virtual appointments on your schedule. From wellness exams to routine screenings, we make sure each person gets expert, tailored care. Count on Wellstar to help you and your family thrive at every stage of life. wellstar.org/primarycare

YEARS OF ATLANTA PARENT

Eight Ways to Be Thankful

It’s important to practice gratitude all year –find inspiration with our tips.

Holiday Toy Guide

From games to art to STEAM-inspired toys, find the perfect gift for kids of all ages.

Arts in Education

Learn about the connections between the arts and academics, and meet some Atlanta students who are following their passions.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS

Holiday Fun is Here! 26

Celebrate the season with these 12 special events in metro Atlanta.

Enjoy a family-friendly holiday getaway at one of these top destinations.

Why We Love Our School

Choosing the right school is so important. Learn why these families are confident in their private school choice.

Family Fun Guide / Page 41

Countdown to the holidays: Top events, light displays, tree farms and more. Plus, the best things to do in November!

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PUBLISHER Liz White lwhite@atlantaparent.com

ASSOCIATE Laura Powell PUBLISHER lpowell@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Carolyn Haushalter EXECUTIVE chaushalter@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Genie Lockeretz EXECUTIVE glockeretz@atlantaparent.com

ACCOUNT Christy Craig EXECUTIVE ccraig@atlantaparent.com

STAFF WRITER Emily Webb and DIGITAL ewebb@atlantaparent.com

CONTENT CREATOR

COPY Mary Williams EDITOR

EDITORIAL Sheri Taylor-Emery ART DIRECTOR creative@atlantaparent.com

PRODUCTION Robin Mintz

ADMINISTRATIVE Amanda Allen ASSISTANT

Publisher’s Note

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Atlanta Parent magazine is published monthly by Atlanta Parent, Inc., 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, GA 30341. Telephone 770-454-7599, Fax 770-454-7699.

Atlanta Parent magazine is available free of charge throughout the metro area and as a digital issue at atlantaparent.com. Atlanta Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photographs from its readers and the community. Atlanta Parent magazine is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part, is prohibited without written permission.

© Atlanta Parent, Inc. 2022

Where did the time go? It’s hard to believe November is here, with its cool weather and beautiful fall colors. For some of us, it can also bring feelings of stress, with to-do lists, shopping and planning for the holidays. This month, I’m trying to avoid getting caught up in the frenzy, focusing instead on enjoying some down time. Because of Atlanta’s great fall weather, our family spends lots of time outdoors Thanksgiving weekend; the weather is usually perfect for a bike ride, hike or a game or two of tennis.

There are plenty of things to do over Thanksgiving weekend, whether it’s a family tradition like running in the Atlanta Track Club races, visiting a Christmas tree farm, or doing something new, like visiting an outdoor ice rink. We’re looking forward to seeing the lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden and catching “A Christmas Carol” at Alliance Theatre. Use our Family Fun Guide to start planning family activities for November and into the holiday season.

Our November issue also features our annual Holiday Toy Guide; you can get a head start on shopping for everyone on your list, from toddlers to teens. Our testers loved making lollipops, playing games and creating ZipLinx towers that react like dominoes after building.

One of the best gifts we can give our children is a thankful heart. It’s easy to lose sight of things to be thankful for, especially during the busy holiday season. Helping a neighbor, keeping a journal, or remembering to say “thank you” can improve your outlook and sets a great example for your kids.

What will you and your family be doing for Thanksgiving? Share your traditions, old or new, with us at Facebook.com/AtlantaParentMagazine.

Associate

Email lwhite@atlantaparent.com Website www.atlantaparent.com

Snail Mail 2346 Perimeter

Atlanta, Georgia 30341

atlantaparent.com

Film Festival

Gwinnett County Public Library is proud to present the Student Film Festival for the 2022-2023 school year! Middle School,High School, and Higher Education students are invited to sub mit original films of any genre, and winners in each category will receive awards and prizes. At tend the festival on March 11th, 2023 for film screenings, an awards ceremony, and an after party with opportunities to network with film industry professionals.

8

Ways to Practice Gratitude

The Thanksgiving season reminds us to count our blessings, and research shows that grateful people tend to be happier and more satisfied with their lives. Make gratitude a habit all year; not only will you feel more positive, you’ll set a great example for your kids.

T H A N K F U L

T HTake time to be with family, not just during the holidays. Connect with long-distance family and friends all year.

Help others in need, whether it’s donating items to charity, volunteering in your community, or just helping a neighbor out. You’ll be surprised at how good it feels to pay it forward.

A N K F U L

Encourage your kids to express themselves through art. Ask them to think of things they’re thankful for, and to write, paint, draw, collage or sing about it.

Take time to appreciate nature. Take a walk in the neighborhood, plan a family hike in a park, or just play in the backyard with your kids. Being outdoors will lower stress and improve your outlook.

Practice random acts of kindness. Help your kids bake cookies or draw a card for a neighbor, give an unexpected compliment, or write a note to your mail carrier.

Spend time with friends. In spite of our busy schedules, it’s important to stay in touch. Plan a girls’ night out, have coffee with a friend, or chat while your kids play on the playground.

Take a break from constant distractions and unplug. Meditate, read a book, call a friend or ignore social media for a few hours. Give your brain a break and reflect on the positives in your life.

Make a list of 10 things you love about your kids, and share the list with them. Be affectionate and demonstrate your love – you’ll feel more connected and improve their self-confidence.

StUff Good

THINGS WE LIKE YOU’VE GOT MAIL!

The Builder

Nurture imagination with the power of play with a box featuring interactive building toys for kids 3-5. The Sago Mini Box provides learning moments through hands-on play with different themed boxes delivered each month. Made with sustainable and recyclable materials, everything comes included in the box. Starting at $23 at sagominibox.com.

Culinary Creations

A Delight for the Senses

Help develop important sensory motor skills with the Sensory TheraPlay Box. Items are therapeutic and can be calming or help to manage anxiety with fun and silly sensory play. Boxes are created for children with autism and sensory needs in mind, and each box is curated by a licensed occupational therapist and includes a description card. Boxes available for $42- $462 at sensorytheraplaybox.com.

The Smartest in the Room

Work alone or as a team to solve the puzzles and crack the codes in order to Escape the Crate, a subscription box adventure with all of the fun of an escape room. Each box has everything you need to play, and each game has multiple chapters in one, so you can solve it as fast as you can or split a box up into multiple playthroughs. Available at escape-the-crate.com for $29.99-$159.

All Around the World

Each month, try the delicious food of a different country with Universal Yums. Unforgettable flavors include Italian Bruschetta Bites, Spanish Sour Pineapple Gummies, Belgian Hazelnut Truffles and more. Each box contains an information booklet featuring an interactive tasting game, trivia, recipes and facts. Available at universalyums.com from $15-$41 per box.

Combine a love of reading and baking with the Bookakery Boxes. Each new box is filled with a beautiful hardback picture book, a kid-tested recipe, baking tools and other goodies centered around an exciting theme. With each new subscription purchase, a picture book is also donated to READ, which seeks to promote education and personal development by collecting and distributing books written by BIPOC authors. Starting at $29.95 per month at bookakeryboxes.com.

by Emily Webb

‘Tis the Season for Holiday Fun!

These topnotch events and attractions will get your family in the holiday spirit.

l The Magic of Winter

Celebrate the season at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia’s Winter WonderLights, presented by the UGA Office of the President. Follow a half-mile trail past shimmering snowflakes, through a tunnel of multicolored lights and a cone tree forest. Along the way, visitors can purchase marshmallows for roasting s’mores over an open fire, hot chocolate or cold refreshments. Come see why it was voted “Best Local Event” in Athens! Select nights Nov. 23-Jan. 8. 706-542-1244; wonderlights.uga.edu

l Rare Puppets and the Return of Rudolph

The Center for Puppetry Arts is thrilled to announce the return of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ live and in-person! This faithful adaptation of the beloved 1964 stop-motion special speaks to the misfit in all of us. Plus, see the rare Santa and Rudolph puppets from the original Rankin & Bass TV production on display in the Festive Features Special Exhibition! Your all-inclusive ticket includes the performance, museum admission, and a CreateA-Puppet Workshop™. Prices vary by date. Discounted performances are available in November. Performances Nov. 9-Dec. 31. Special exhibition Nov. 15-Jan. 8. 404-873-3391; puppet.org

l Dazzling Holiday Trees

Kick off your holiday season with the Georgia Festival of Trees presented by Atlanta Gas Light! Sure to become a memorable family tradition for years to come, the Festival features a forest of dazzling Christmas trees available for auction, live music and entertainment, a gingerbread contest, Christmas brick challenge, kids’ activities and games, boutique gift shops, food carts and more. All proceeds from the event and holiday tree sales will benefit Wellspring Living, a local nonprofit organization that supports and serves survivors of human trafficking in metro Atlanta. Tickets are available now! Nov. 19-27. 678-783-4455; gafestivaloftrees.org

Photo by Clay Walker

Winter WonderLights

Center for Puppetry Arts

l A Magical Fantasyland

Let Atlanta Ballet transport you and your family into a magical fantasyland full of warmth and wonder, where dreams come true. Imaginations will soar as dancing snowflakes, beautiful ballerinas, waltzing flowers, toy soldiers and more come to life in Atlanta Ballet’s reimagined production of The Nutcracker, set to the iconic Tchaikovsky score played live by the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra. Travel with Marie and her handsome Nutcracker Prince into a magical winter wonderland that is nothing shy of extravagant. The magic of the holidays comes alive as Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker takes the stage this December at Cobb Energy Centre. Dec. 9-26. 800-982-2787; atlantaballet.com

l Charming Holiday Puppet Shows

Don’t miss the delightful Winter Puppet Series at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center! In “Trouble in Toyland” by Lee Bryan, it’s Christmas Eve, but the toys aren’t finished, elves are on strike, Santa has lost his laugh, and Rudolph has a runny nose! Will Christmas be canceled? Of course not! This show delivers holiday hijinks and is fun for the whole family, Dec. 15-17. Frisch Marionettes’ “Holiday Punch” packs a punch! This fastpaced, fun-filled show features puppets performing tricks that will have you laughing and shouting for more! Dec. 20-22. These productions will delight audiences of all ages. 770-594-6232; roswellcac.com

l Light Up Your Imagination

Zoo Atlanta partners with Hanart Culture to bring IllumiNights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival back to Atlanta! In this one-of-a-kind light experience, vistas of illuminated wildlife and awe-inspiring sights await in a nighttime wonderland celebrating the beauty and wonder of the natural world. Stroll the Zoo after dark to be inspired by more than 80 natureinspired lanterns depicting some of Earth’s most amazing and charismatic flora and fauna, both real and imagined. Each lantern is made and handpainted by Chinese artisans, representing thousands of hours of work. In keeping with Zoo Atlanta’s commitment to sustainability, each lantern features environmentally-friendly LED lights. Tickets on sale now. Nov. 21-Jan. 15. 404-624-9453; zooatlanta.org/illuminights

Georgia Festival of Trees

Winter Puppet Series

Atlanta Ballet

Cont’d on next page IllumiNights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival

l A Wonderland of Lights

Making its debut at Coolray Field in Lawrenceville this holiday season, Shine Light Show is a drive-thru holiday light experience running from Nov. 18-Jan. 1. Timed and ticketed guests are invited to stay in their cars, tune their radio to a designated station, and immerse themselves into a wonderland of synchronized light displays to music from the comfort of their car. The dazzling show is a leisurely drive through archways and illuminated installations for all ages. Purchase tickets online; only one ticket is required per vehicle. 312-467-7334; shinelightshow.com

l Art and Holiday Cheer

Visit Callanwolde Fine Arts Center for 10 days of Winter House 2022! From Nov. 25 to Dec. 10, Callanwolde will be open to the public to celebrate a new winter tradition, one filled with art and holiday cheer. Inside the 27,000-square-foot historic mansion, you’ll find art workshops, Santa visits, board games to play, cozy spots to enjoy a beverage, and more. Santa will be making a special trip to Callanwolde for photo sessions and hot chocolate! Outside, gather by fire pits to roast s’mores. Entry is free, the pre-purchase of tickets for performances, events and workshops is recommended. 404-872-5338; callanwolde.org/ winterhouse2022

l A Flurry of Outdoor Fun

Trade in your flip-flops for snow boots this winter! License to Chill Snow Island and the Lakeside Lights Spectacular are open Nov. 19-Feb. 26. Take the crew snow tubing, get your skates on and practice figure eights at the ice rink, hop on the carnival rides, make snow angels, and warm up with s’mores and hot cocoa by the fire pits. Lakeside Lights Spectacular is a magical walk through an amazing lighting extravaganza with music, themed displays and light tunnels. Get outdoors for some fresh air and family-friendly fun at one of the best winter attractions in the southeast! 470-323-3440; margaritavilleatlanierislands.com

l Captivating Stage Productions

Roswell Performing Arts presents a season of captivating stage productions for the entire family! Roswell Youth Theatre brings “Shrek the Musical JR.” to life! Everyone’s favorite ogre is back in this hilarious stage spectacle, based on the Oscar-winning hit film and Broadway musical, Dec. 2-3. Later in the month, Roswell Dance Starz dazzles with “The Grinch Remixed” on Dec. 17. Join The Grinch, Max, Cindy Lou Who and more, and discover the true meaning of Christmas. This family-friendly dance performance is sure to warm your heart and put you in the holiday spirit! 770-594-6232; roswellcac.com

License to Chill Snow Island

Roswell Performing Arts

Shine Light Show

Winter House 2022

l Deck the Hall This Holiday Season

The College Football Hall of Fame is the perfect destination to celebrate the holidays and bowl season. This year the Hall of Fame amplifies the lights, sounds and traditions of college football as the Hall is decked out with illuminating decorations and holiday cheer! Fans, be festive! Come out to the home of college football and one of the most sought-after tourist attractions in the nation. While visiting the Hall, make sure you and your team play like a legend on the 45-yard field, engage with exciting interactive exhibits, and go “caroling” with your alma mater fight song! Follow @cfbhall and plan your visit. 404-880-4800; cfbhall.com

l The Most Magical Time of the Year

The City of Norcross’ Annual Holiday Celebration returns with activities, lights, Santa and more on December 2! Enjoy carols performed by the local choir, hot chocolate, s’mores and “The Grinch” (2018) on the big screen. Santa himself will arrive to great fanfare and be on hand for photos! But the fun doesn’t stop there. Throughout the month, carriage rides will dash through the sparkling streets of Norcross, and Santa will continue to pop up downtown to hear your Christmas wishes and take pictures. 770-448-2122; aplacetoimagine.com

City of Norcross

College Football Hall of Fame

Festive Holiday Destinations

Celebrate the holidays with a family-friendly getaway to one of these top destinations.

l Alpine Winter Lights

The Alpine Bavarian Community of Helen magically transforms into a Christmas wonderland and brings lights, a German Christmas market and festive holiday decor! Kick off the holiday season November 25 with Helen’s Annual Lighting of the Village at 5 p.m. The Alpine Lights of Helen lets families extend their holiday memories through February. Don’t miss the Christkindlmarkt on November 26-27 and December 3-4, with unique gifts and decorations to savory foods and candied treats. 706-878-2181; helenga.org

l A Mountain Holiday Getaway

If you’re looking for quality family time away from the crowds this holiday season, come to the mountains! Atlanta’s most charming mountain getaway, Rabun County is just a short trip away. Enjoy quaint and traditional holiday experiences, all of which come with fresh air and views that are even more amazing during the winter months. From outdoor activities and boutique shopping to cozy accommodations and fine dining, there’s something for everyone in Rabun County! 706-782-4812; explorerabun.com

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l A Holiday Celebration

Visit Villa Rica for holiday fun at Christmas on Main at The MILL Amphitheater December 3. Join the Reindeer Run 5K and Fun Run, shop at the Mistletoe Market, enjoy the Christmas parade, tree lighting and pictures with Santa! Afterward, visit Pine Mountain Gold Museum for the Winter Wonderland Train, Christmas lights, carolers and more. 678-840-1440; downtownvillarica.com

l Animal Adventures

This holiday season, visit Pine Mountain Safari, Georgia’s largest wild animal safari! Experience the thrill of meeting animals from around the world on a guided or self-guided tour. Keep the holiday cheer going all year with an annual membership; shop their Black Friday sale online. 706-663-8744; animalsafari.com

2022 Holiday TOY Guide

It’s the season for gift giving! While presents don’t make the holidays special by themselves, they make them fun. Plus, giving gifts makes you feel good. To give you a head start, we’ve reviewed the coolest products, toys and games for your kids this holiday. Here are our top picks for every age and interest.

n Care for the cutest pets with Little Live Pets: Mama Surprise from Moose Toys. Take care of the mama guinea pig, and in time, three baby guinea pigs will be born. The three babies come with their own care packages. For ages 5 and older. At moosetoys.com. $64.99.

n Play with the beautiful Naturalistas Fashion Dolls from Just Play/Purpose Toys. They feature easy to play with naturally curly hair styles, and the doll profiles include successful characters from chemists to fashion designers. For ages 3 and older. At mynaturalistas.com. $12.99-$24.99.

n Duunnn dunnn… escape the land shark! Control the Mega Chomp R/C Shark from Skyrocket to attack siblings, friends and family. At 16-inches long, the Mega Chomp strikes fear into those he chases with a swishing tail and a half-submerged body to turn any surface into shark-infested waters. For ages 4 and older. At skyrocketon.com. $39.99.

Reviewed by the Atlanta Parent staff. Shop early and check with stores on availability. Prices listed are MSRP.

n Care for the animals of the rainforest with PLAYMOBIL’s Wiltopia – Animal Care Station. Use the exam table to check the animals and administer treatment; then, house the creatures in an outdoor enclosure with trees and food. When not helping animals, hop into the rowboat to explore the jungle and find new animals. For ages 4 and older. At playmobil.us. $109.99.

n Create an enchanting home for animals with the Build & Grow Tree House from Faber-Castell. Build and decorate this wooden tree house with paint and stickers. Bring the house to life with easy-to-grow chia seed, so the included miniature owl, turtle, frog, hedgehog and chipmunk have a place to stay. For ages 6 and older. At fabercastell.com. $24.99.

n Little shoppers will have fun learning with Melissa & Doug’s Wooden Shape Sorting Grocery Cart. Push the cart, sort pieces, play with puzzles and more. For ages 1-2. At melissaanddoug.com. $74.99.

n Create your dream home with MindWare’s Art-chitect

3-D Home Design Architecture Kit. Aspiring architects and interior designers can draw and design everything they need for the perfect home with a drafting triangle, compass and more to design, furnish and decorate floor plans. For ages 8 and older. At mindware. orientaltrading.com. $73.95.

n Older kids can take outdoor fights to the next level with Nerf Pro Gelfire Mythic from Hasbro Pulse. The blaster features rounds that you can hydrate so they burst on impact. For ages 14 and older. At hasbropulse.com. $79.99.

n Send playtime soaring into space with the LEGO Friends’ Olivia’s Space Academy. Build and play with a set that includes a classroom, mission control, a Shuttle model and an observatory. For ages 8 and older. At lego.com. $69.99.

n Bring the night sky inside with AirFort’s Constellation (Glow). Explore outer space, and travel the galaxy to spot the constellations Ursa Major, Orion, Cassiopeia, Ursa Minor and Gemini with this glow-in-the-dark design. Each AirFort attaches to a box fan via Velcro strips to create a 77-inch wide and 50inch tall fort. For ages 3 and older. At airfort.com. $59.95.

Cont’d on next

Win Toys! Go to atlantaparent.com/contests for a chance to win prize packs selected by age. See details on what toys are included in each prize pack on our website.

2022 Holiday

n The fashionista in your family will love to wear the creations made with the Ice-Dye Headbands from Faber-Castell. Using cold brew, ice-dye techniques, make stylish headbands for a unique twist on the tie dye trend. For ages 7 and older. At fabercastell.com. $24.99.

Guide

n Create and display dazzling wall art that lights up with the Lite-Brite Wall Art Pop Wow! Edition from Basic Fun!. The 16x16inch grid features 6,000 mini pegs in eight assorted colors with 45 LEDs for beautiful wall art you design yourself. For ages 14 and older. At basicfun.com. $99.99.

n Bubbles are made better with the Fömalanche Foam Machine. The machine makes piles and piles of light, airy foam – just add concentrate and water to the reservoir. Bubbles just dissipate for easy cleanup. For ages 5 and older. At fommania.com. $50.

n Combine learning and imagination with the Interactive Learning Easel from LeapFrog. With the double-sided whiteboard/chalkboard, use the letter magnets and reader to teach kids letter names, sounds and words. Guided art activities and music will help your child learn about the alphabet, colors, shapes and creativity. For ages 3-5. At store.leapfrog.com. $69.99.

n Build, sculpt and paint with the Clay Sculpting Station from Crayola. Make everything from animal sculptures to clay pots. This all-in-one air-dry clay kit includes everything in an easy-totravel-with storage case. For ages 4 and older. At crayola.com. $24.99.

n Satisfy your sweet tooth with Thames & Kosmos’ Lollipop Lab. Whip up batches of red cherry and blue raspberry lollipops and make a giant ring lollipop with both flavors. For ages 8 and older. At store. thamesandkosmos.com. $21.95.

n Get creative with the Made by Me! Sand Dough Pottery Press from Horizon Group USA. The Sand Dough is a squishy, air-dry, mess-free material that is easier to manipulate than clay. Make unique pottery with included mold base. For ages 6 and older. At amazon.com. $19.99.

n Design fashionable jewelry with Horizon Group USA’s Just My Style Glitzy Pop! Sparkling Charm Studio. This jewelrymaking kit comes with more than 650 beads, 10 charms and a jewelplacing pen for creating sparkling bracelets, necklaces and more. For ages 6 and older. At amazon.com. $21.97.

n Mini bakers will enjoy playing in the pretend kitchen with the Disney Junior Alice’s Wonderland Bakery Alice Doll & Magical Oven Set. The set includes a scented Alice, a magical light-up oven, pot, two layer cakes, two jars and a spatula. For ages 3 and older. At justplayproducts.com. $39.99.

THE TOTS

n Put building skills to use with Educational Insights’ Design & Drill Bolt Buddies Barn. This barn-themed playset features dozens of pretend play pieces for imagining farm life with a kid-safe power drill. For ages 3-7. At educationalinsights.com. $44.99.

n Have fun on the farm with the Plush Baby Soft Fabric Newborn Ring Rattles from iPlay, iLearn. The dog, duck, sheep and donkey live together in a cute, red house. For ages 2 months and older. At iplayilearntoys.com. $26.99.

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n Have a party with Hape’s Rock & Slide House. This cute house features a kitchen, music room, pool, nursery, and more. It is also packed full of nine exciting sound effects, including pets, a keyboard, and a ticking clock. For ages 3 and older. At hape.com. $34.99.

n Splish, splash, I was taking a bath! Make bath time a blast with Dimpl Splash from Fat Brain Toys. This set of three bath toys features a green pitcher, a blue donut and a yellow starfish. Scoop and pour water, create rain or a stream and float the toys. For ages 2-4. At fatbraintoys.com. $21.95.

n It’s easy to soothe baby to sleep with the LoveLight Buddies from Cloud.b. These cute creatures feature calming lights, melodies, white noise and a warm glow for a bedtime buddy. Parents can use the recording function to leave a sweet message or sing the baby a lullaby. For ages 0 months and older. At cloudb.com. $49.99.

n Become a little rockstar with Fat Brain Toys’ Lamaze Squeeze Beats First Drum Set. Babies will love creating fun sound effects, and goofing around with animal sounds with this drum set made for little ones. For ages 1-2. At fatbraintoys.com. $34.95.

n Balance play and spatial learning with the Little Partners’ Learn N’ Balance Set. Help your little one develop their balance with this easily portable, folding balance beam and a set of colored stepping stones. For ages 18 months-4 years. At littlepartners.com. $149.95.

n Set up the cute Christmas Steaming Train Set from BRIO for sweet holiday memories. This train set produces realistic steam effects and can be used as holiday décor with snowy tracks, Santa Claus and a North Pole train station. For ages 3 and older. At brio.us. $129.99.

n Explore creativity and the satisfaction of puzzle-solving with Plus-Plus’ Puzzle by Number. Using the enclosed patterns for a rainbow, butterfly and space to fill in the design by matching each number with the corresponding color. Available in 250, 500 and 800 pieces. For ages 5 and older. At plusplususa.com. $14.99-$34.99.

n Play with a twist with Hasbro’s Connect 4 Spin Game. This strategic game of weights and balances makes players choose where to put their disc into the grid, and then spin the column to line them up. Get four in a row to win, but keep an eye out for your opponent’s discs. For ages 8 and

n Entertain your child with the Kanoodle Fusion from Educational Insights. Mixing logic and reasoning, kids try to replicate the 50

n Thief! In Blue Orange Games’ Museum

Suspects, one of the museum artifacts has been stolen, and the director is relying on you to unmask the thief (or thieves!) hidden among the 16 suspects. Each turn, you’ll select a clue, and keep track of your investigation in your notebook to suggest a suspect. The player who bets the most on the real thief will win!

For ages 8 and older. At blueorangegames.com.

WE LOVE TO

n Gear up for battle with the Pokémon TCG: Pokémon GO Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box Plus. Pokémon GO meets the Pokémon Trading Card Game with this box. For ages 6 and older. At pokemoncenter.com. $64.99.

n Get the kids outdoors with VTech’s KidiGo NexTag. This watch-like accessory is a high-tech spin on 20 different backyard games, including Capture the Flag, Freeze Tag, Hide-andSeek and more. For ages 5 and older. At vtechkids.com. $44.99.

n Race around the USA and deliver as many parcels as you can with Big Potato Games’ USPS Great American Mail Race. Use 15 different types of transportation to travel across the map to drop off mail. Each time you successfully drop off a package, you’ll acquire stamps to try and win! For ages 10 and older. At bigpotato.com. $34.99.

n Oh, no! The pugs have eaten all the lollipops in Blue Orange Games’ Tongues Out! Although they’re cute, we can’t let them get away with it. Each turn, try to match two lollipops on the dice with the squishy pugs you think ate them. The first player to match the six pugs with the lollipops’ colors wins the game. For ages 4 and older. At blueorangegames.com. $21.99.

n Travel through the night sky to reach for the moon with Catch the Moon from Thames & Kosmos. Use your imagination and cleverness to strategically place ladders in order to grab the moon. Collect the fewest raindrops to win. For ages 8 and older. At store. thamesandkosmos.com. $34.95.

WESLEYAN?

to learn more!

n Blast off with this awesome engineering project. Construct an air-powered robotic glove from 100 pieces that launches safe foam darts with Thames & Kosmos’ Ultra Bionic Blaster. It’s entirely powered by your hand – no batteries or motors required. For ages 10 and older. At store. thamesandkosmos.com. $39.95.

n Save the day with Learning Resources’ Switcheroo Coding Crew: 3-in-1 Rescue Robot. Transform your robot into a police car, fire truck or construction vehicle. Use coding to program your robot to solve the rescue challenges. For ages 4-7. At learningresources.com. $59.99.

n Watch the incredible transformation of a small energy core into a poseable figure with Giga Bots Energy Cores from Blip Toys. Each Giga Bot contains 33 buildable pieces for building and swapping between bots. For ages 5 and older. At giga-bots.com. $16.99.

n Build racing fun with the Connetix Tiles’ 92 Piece Ball Run Pack. Includes clear fluted tubes, six rainbow wooden balls, special effect stair soundscape tubes, S-bend tubes and a split tube. For ages 3 and older. At connetixtiles.com. $109.

n From the hit TV series, learn how numbers work with the Numberblocks MathLink Cubes 1-10 Activity Set from hand2mind. Kids can build their own Numberblocks from One to Ten as they master key early learning math skills with hands-on play. For ages 3-6. At hand2mind.com. $24.99.

n Create high-flying chain reactions with the ZipLinx Triple Tower Blast from Blip Toys. Launch ZipLinx into the tower trigger to make the towers fall onto the Target Launchers. Although it’s similar to the classic domino run, ZipLinx pieces can launch up to three feet high into the air and Hi-Fly Balls may reach six feet in the air! For ages 6 and older. At bliptoys.com. $44.99.

n Look mom, no remote! The power is in your hands with Skyrocket’s Sky Viper Force Hover Sphere Drone. Smart sensors detect your hands and surroundings, which allow the drone to fly itself. All you need to do is toss the toy into the air! For ages 6 and older. At skyrocketon.com. $22.99.

Why We Our School

Families weigh many factors when choosing the right school for their child. They look at curriculum, teachers, values, culture, academic focus and much more.

n

Find out from a parent’s perspective why these families love their school and are confident with their school choice.

Why We Love Our School

ATLANTA ACADEMY / THE WELLFORD FAMILY

Why We Chose Atlanta Academy:

About the School: Established 2000 385 students Preschool-Grade 8 Roswell atlantaacademy.com

About the Family: Cheryl and Walker

Wellford; Walker, 16; William, 12; Jack, 10. Lives in Dunwoody. A part of the Atlanta Academy family for 5 years.

The school provides a family atmosphere. We love that everyone truly knows our boys – their personalities, their strengths, and even their needs. They are supported and challenged at the same time. We place high value on the teachers, the small class sizes, individualized instruction, academic support, nurturing environment, quality sports programs, the arts, and the strong community.

Learning Experience:

Walker has repeatedly commented to us on how well Atlanta Academy prepared him for the transition, the workload, and the overall experience of high school.

Extracurricular Activities:

We are avid sports fans. At Atlanta Academy, William was able to play soccer, basketball, and be on the passing league football team as a 5th grader, which was such a gift for him.

write and perform an original song, Sloths Eat Tacos on Sundays, paint a teacher’s jeep, and care for baby chicks?

Why We Love Our School

ATLANTA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL / THE SHAHAB FAMILY

Academics:

About the School: Established 1984 1,325 students 3K-Grade 12 Atlanta aischool.org

About the Family: Mojy and Neiku Shahab live in Buckhead. Neiku enrolled in AIS at age 4, entering the French track. She is now 17 and fluent in French. Also pictured is Neiku’s older brother Keon, 29.

The IB curriculum, unique approach to language learning and the academic programs all stood out to us when choosing AIS. In grade 5 Neiku was in robotics, Middle School she was involved in STEM, sports and MUN. Now, in High School, she is leading MUN with a few of her friends. Technology has also been important, she certainly challenged herself but with tremendous

support and encouragement from her teachers.

Community:

Everybody at AIS is so friendly. The buildings are close to each other, it’s easy to get around and facilities, like the library are such welcoming places to read a book or study for a test.

School Culture:

Every year we celebrate United Nations Day. Culture to my family is about your day-to-day environment, friendships and connection to diversity. As the Head of School says every year in his speech, “At AIS, we are citizens of the world.” I cannot thank my amazing AIS family enough for 14 years of pure pleasure.

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About the School: Established 2007 150 Students Grades 5-12 Atlanta capstoneacademy. com

About the Family: Rebecca and Cha Holmes; Clint, 15 and Hollis, 14. Live in Virginia Highland. A part of the Capstone Academy family for five years.

Why We Love Our School

Why We Love Our School

CAPSTONE ACADEMY / THE HOLMES FAMILY

Why We Chose Capstone Academy:

Capstone Academy has given our entire family the flexibility we’ve needed to maintain a challenging athletic schedule, honors level academics, and a well rounded family life without compromising the rigor expected from a competitive independent school.

School Culture:

Our teachers and staff have fostered a real sense of community at Capstone – they are truly invested in their successes both in and out of the classroom. Our small class sizes have allowed students to really connect on a more personal level, and our parents could not be more engaged and supportive!

College Preparedness:

The condensed, three-day-a-week model at Capstone is not unlike what our kids will experience in college! They quickly learn essential skills like time management,

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project based planning and collaboration, communication, and disciplined study and research skills that will surely prepare them for their future both in higher education and in the work force.

Why We Love Our School

GRACEPOINT SCHOOL / THE COYNE FAMILY

Why We Chose GRACEPOINT:

About the School: Established 2012 133 students Grades 1-8 Marietta gracepointschool.org

About the Family: Julie and Chad Coyne; Grayson, 11. Live in Marietta. A part of the GRACEPOINT family for 3 years. Also pictured is Grayson’s older brother, Cooper, 13.

The moment we walked into the building, GRACEPOINT felt like home, exuding warmth and kindness. We were embraced and supported by the faculty and staff. Their encouragement and caring meant the world to us. Learning we were not alone in our dyslexia journey lifted a weight from our shoulders.

School Community:

Being with other kids that were “just like me” on the shadow day allowed Grayson to see himself as who he is, not who all the years of struggles in public school made him see. He began to learn he was created just the way he was supposed to be. When we picked him up, he said, “Can I come back tomorrow? This is where I belong.” Grayson now embraces his dyslexia as a superpower; the confidence that knowledge gives him is indescribable.

School Culture:

Grayson says, “The teachers and staff understand us and teach us the way we learn best. There is so much excitement and energy! I love HOUSE time. Everyone is always rooting for one another. We are one big family.”

Why We Love Our School

THE MOUNT VERNON SCHOOL / THE McCORD FAMILY

Inquiry-Based Academic Approach:

About the School:

Established 1972

1,247 students

Preschool-Grade 12 Sandy Springs mountvernonschool.org

About the Family:

Jami and Michael McCord; Gracie, 11; Wiley, 10; Tucker, 7. Live in Atlanta.

A part of The Mount Vernon School family for six years.

Starting with questions is one of Mount Vernon’s norms. “Does this tree have a name?” That was one of Tucker’s questions last year in kindergarten. The School leaned into his natural curiosity and created unique learning experiences which included science, maker, design, and engineering. Tucker is one of three co-founders of the Tree Club on the Lower Campus. It has instilled a sense of responsibility in both Tucker and his classmates.

Values:

We have a strong religious faith and appreciate the weekly Chapel. Mount Vernon is a place where our children are encouraged to grow up and become the confident, responsible, strong-minded individuals that we pray they will be.

Mission:

At Mount Vernon, students realize their full potential is possible and sustainable with the right mix of hard work, imagination, and guidance – this makes MV the choice for our family.

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Why We Love Our School

WESLEYAN SCHOOL / THE GOLDWIRE FAMILY

Why We Chose Wesleyan:

About the School:

Established 1963

1,207 students K-Grade 12 Peachtree Corners wesleyanschool.org

About the Family: Franklin Goldwire and Vanessa AndersonGoldwire; Melissia, 11. Live in Alpharetta. A part of the Wesleyan School Family for two years.

Virtual schooling during the pandemic left our daughter academically and socially isolated. We wanted a school that would provide a safe environment for her to grow academically, creatively, socially, and spiritually. At Wesleyan, we saw a faculty and staff that knew and cared for each of their students.

Campus and Curriculum: With one campus tour, we observed students sharing the STEM robots they built from scratch and an exceptional fine arts department. We saw academic and extracurricular opportunities allowing students to grow and explore their interests; we knew our daughter would thrive.

New Student Experience:

In the first two months of school, our daughter had the opportunity to sing the national anthem at a football

game, act in a play, and sing in the fall chorus recital. She looks forward to going to school. For us, Wesleyan is more than a premiere college preparatory school, it is a home away from home.

Why We Love Our School

Why We Love Our School

WOODWARD ACADEMY / THE ROBINSON FAMILY

Curriculum: It was important to our family to find one school to meet the academic needs of both our children who are very different. The Woodward curriculum allows each child to tap into their academic strengths and interests with its leveling system.

College Preparedness: An emphasis on independence and self-advocacy in the learning process has prepared our children for college. We fully appreciate the guidance and resources the WA College Counseling Office offers our family.

Extracurricular Activities: Academics, arts and athletics are cornerstones of the Woodward experience! There is really something for every child at Woodward!

School Culture: We have experienced a culture that respects the growth of each child and supports his/her family! There is a connection and friendship amongst the families we have met over the years. The academic culture provides structure for the younger grades and independence for the middle and upper school years.

About the School: Established 1900. 2,525 students Pre-K-Grade 12 Two campuses: Main Campus, College Park (Pre-K-12); Woodward North, Johns Creek (Pre-K-6) woodward.edu

About the Family: Rick and LaKesha Robinson; Bailey, Alum ‘21; Blake, 16. Live in Smyrna. A part of the Woodward Academy family for 10+ years.

Why Private School Matters

Private school students generally perform higher than their public school counterparts on standardized achievement tests.

By eighth grade, private school students score higher in music, visual arts and writing

Sources: National Assessment of Educational Progress Nation’s Report Card

For more on private schools and boarding schools, visit atlantaparent.com

Porter

1,240+ Students | Preschool - Grade 12

Mount Vernon students are empowered to discover, explore, learn, design, create, and effect change.

education, the School provides a platform for

with limitless paths for impact where

is amplified through real-world

ARTS IN EDUCATION

Where Academics and Creativity Meet

MUSIC AND MATH

Learning music boosts math skills. Foundationally, music is math. When students learn to read sheet music when playing an instrument or singing in a chorus, they have to understand the time signatures, beats per minute and formulaic progressions.

VISUAL ARTS AND SCIENCE

The methods of creating a visual arts project and conducting a scientific experiment are similar. They each have their own specific steps – ask a question, investigate, observe, analyze, conclude – that mirror one another and result in a finished product. Also, an artist must understand visual perspective, color and light – all of which are scientific concepts.

THEATER AND READING

The obvious connection is that you have to read a script in order to perform a play. Aside from this, performing requires reading comprehension skills. If a student does not understand the story or what is happening to her character, it can be very difficult to progress as an actress.

The arts are inherently connected to more traditional academic subjects like math, science and reading. Here’s a more in-depth look at these intersections.

by Tali Benjamin

FUTURE STARS OF THE ARTS

Atlanta is home to some truly talented kids and teens. From playing instruments in Carnegie Hall to performing on Broadway, you might be amazed by some of the accomplishments of our city’s young arts students. Here’s a look into how they got started, why they love what they do, and advice for aspiring performers and artists.

Ovie, 17, and Arjun, 13, Nirgudkar Pace Academy

This brother and sister pair make a dynamic duo that have played at Carnegie Hall multiple times. Ovie plays the piano and has since she was 4. Arjun plays the cello and loves the adrenaline rush it brings. Ovie has also graced international stages – Royal Albert Hall in London and the Sheremetev Palace in St. Petersburg; Arjun is currently the principal cellist for the Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra Philharmonic Division.

n Her favorite thing about performing: It’s a mode of universal communication. Every audience can understand what she chooses to convey, and that is very special. She also loves the thrill of putting on a beautiful dress, doing up her hair and walking on stage with confidence.

n What he wants you to know about him: Watch out! He’s just getting started.

“We would both like to say that none of our success would be possible without our parents and our teachers. They push us – first, to have good values and character, and second, to always outwork the competition.”

Cameron Flotta, 13

The Mount Vernon School

Cameron is a middle schooler with a future in sound design. At the Georgia Junior Thespian Conference, his work received a Superior score and was recognized at the closing ceremony. He also presented his sound design at the International Thespian Festival this summer. He was one of only a few middle schoolers to receive his medal on stage at the closing ceremony in front of an audience of more than 3,500 festival attendees.

n How he got started: He started sound design at the beginning of 7th grade when he was 12. At the end of his 6th grade year, he learned about sound design and tried it out on a small show they did, but it really started in 7th grade when he did the entire process by himself.

n His favorite thing about sound design: Finding the sounds is a lot of fun because you can discover random funny sounds while trying to find the perfect sound for that cue.

“If you want to try out sound design, make sure you always go through and read the script two or more times. This helps a lot to make sure you don’t make any mistakes or leave out some important moments in your show.”

Margaret Black, 17

Marietta High School

Margaret was exposed to all things music related at a very young age, because both of her parents are musicians. She saw how her dad could convey emotions without words and a deeper meaning to music. She’s been playing the piano and singing ever since.

n Her favorite thing about performing: For Margaret, the most gratifying part about performing are the deep bonds you make with your fellow musicians and with your audience. Some of her strongest and most resilient friendships have blossomed through chorus and theater.

n Her most recent role: Playing the Woman in Chair as a part of Marietta High School Theatre department’s production of “The Drowsy Chaperone.” This is one of the biggest roles she has ever received.

“To anyone who wants to perform –just do it. Don’t listen when other people say that it isn’t cool to be in the arts, because that could not be farther from the truth. It doesn’t matter what other people think about it. You can change the world through performing.”

FUTURE STARS OF THE ARTS

Marco Schittone, 15 The Galloway School

Marco got his big break on Broadway in “Tuck Everlasting” several years ago. Since then, he’s worked on a variety of local plays and been cast in several onscreen performances, including “Just Beyond” on Disney+, “Doom Patrol” on DC Universe and “Sleepy Hollow” on Fox, as well as his most recent project “I Want You Back” on Amazon Prime Video.

n How he got started: At 5 years old, his acting journey began at the Alliance Theatre during summer camp when he played the role of the tortoise in “The Tortoise and the Hare.”

n His favorite thing about performing: The people he has met and worked with, such as Broadway stars Andrew Keegan-Bolger and Michael Park, plus celebrities like Clint Eastwood, Bradley Cooper and Gina Rodriguez. To him, it feels like one big family when working with a big crew.

“Having the experience of being on Broadway will forever be one of the best experiences of my life. Walking out on stage every night for about 4 months and seeing around 1,000 people looking at me and living my dream is something that I will never forget and miss incredibly.”

Owen Axelberd, 16

Atlanta Music High School

Composing music may not sound like a teenager’s hobby, but that’s exactly how it started for Owen. Now, his compositions are being played at the prestigious Interlochen Arts Camp. This past summer, his pieces included a brass quintet, a mixed ensemble piece for cello, viola, clarinet and flute, and even a piece for double bass and mandolin.

n How he got started: He started watching many videos on YouTube on music theory. These inspired him to try composing, so he bought a copy of Sibelius and started experimenting!

n His advice for other kids: Find a way to make it interesting. Learning an instrument or composition takes consistent practice each day. If you can find a way to make practicing exciting, then practicing each day should be a breeze. Even a little practice is better than none at all, so have fun!

“I firmly believe that anyone at any age can be a great musician no matter how late they start, so long as they have the passion and dedication. I hope if you are on the fence about learning an instrument that you will not make age the deciding factor!”

LEARNING TO

AT EVERY LEVEL.

10 OUTSTANDING OUTCOMES OF ARTS EDUCATION

The arts have an amazing impact on learners, no matter what medium. From practical abilities to strengthening connections to academic subjects, the arts give students life skills that will come in handy long after the classroom.

LEADERSHIP

Being creative means you feel comfortable thinking outside of the box and sharing your ideas with others, which translates into becoming a future leader.

RESILIENCE

The creative process teaches students that failing or making mistakes is a natural part of learning and of life.

RESPONSIBILITY

Managing project deadlines, memorizing lines, learning the architecture of the time and maintaining a portfolio – these smaller tasks will create students who can effectively handle all levels of responsibility.

COLLABORATION

Being part of a cast, band, chorus or art show forces students to work together, and communicate their different perspectives and ideas.

EMPATHY

The arts are the perfect outlet for exploring someone else’s motivations, emotions and perspectives.

RESPECT

The arts tell stories from around the world and in different formats, which creates a foundation of understanding of people and mediums students may not have familiarity with.

APPRECIATION

Students who know what it takes to create art or perform in front of others will have a greater affinity for the arts as they get older.

ENGAGEMENT

When students are learning in a hands-on manner, they are more likely to be interested in the subject matter.

CONFIDENCE

Learning to speak in front of others and share their unique perspectives gives students the confidence in who they are as artists and as people.

COMMUNITY

Students get to be around others who share their passion and a feeling of mutual respect.

NOVEMBER: Things to do this month

Atlanta Air Show

Disney Junior Live On Tour

Stone Mountain Christmas

Harry Potter The Exhibition

NOVEMBER TOP EVENTS

Events may be cancelled or changed after our deadline. Please check before visiting to confirm. Full calendar online at atlantaparent.com

Atlanta Air Show

Native American Festival and Pow Wow

Stone Mountain Park

Nov. 3-6. See website for times.

Learn and enjoy Native American culture through dance, music, authentic craft demonstrations, cooking traditions, storytelling, wildlife presentations and more. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. $39.95; ages 3-11, $34.95; ages 2 and younger, free. stonemountainpark.com

IrishFest Atlanta

Historic Downtown Roswell

Nov. 4, 2-9 p.m. and Nov. 5, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Watch performances from artists, musicians and dancers, and enjoy family activities, vendors and more. Some events and workshops are registration-only. See website for locations. $0-$65. irishfestatlanta.org

Twilight Trek Zoo Atlanta

Nov. 5, 6:30-9 p.m.

Learn how accredited zoos help animals survive and thrive with this after-hours tour. Reservation required. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $25; ages 3 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org

Atlanta Air Show

Falcon Field / Nov. 5-6, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

This air show features performances from Daredevil Aerobatics, Formation Flying and more, as well as a headlining performance from the U.S Navy Blue Angels. 7 Falcon Dr., Peachtree City. 321-395-3110. $33+. airshowatlanta.com

Suwanee Classic Car Show

Suwanee Town Center Park

Nov. 6, 10 a.m.

View 175 classic cars, listen to music, 0and participate in giveaways. 330 Town Center Ave., Suwanee. 678-878-2818. Free admission. suwaneeartscenter.org

Native American Festival and Pow Wow

Apple Cider Days

Donaldson-Bannister Farm Nov. 12, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

This fall fun event includes family activities, a petting zoo, pioneer crafts, an apple scavenger hunt, a vintage items display and more. Reservation required. 4831 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody. 770-668-0401. $10. dunwoodypreservationtrust.org

Harvest Festival

Lawrenceville Lawn

Nov. 12, 1-8 p.m.

Celebrate the season of fall with festive entertainment including games, hayrides, a petting zoo, pumpkin painting and food. 210 Luckie St., Lawrenceville. 678-407-6653. Free admission. downtownlawrencevillega.com

Cirque du Soleil’s Kurios: Cabinet of Curiosities

Under the Big Top, Atlantic Station

Through Dec. 24. See website for showtimes.

Step into the curio cabinet of an ambitious inventor and be transported into his imagination as he tries to reinvent everything around him. 241 20th St., Atlanta. 877-924-7783. $49-$59+. cirquedusoleil.com

UPS Second Sunday

High Museum of Art

Nov. 13, noon-5 p.m.

Listen to music, enjoy drop-in art making, and peruse the permanent and special exhibitions. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4400. Free admission. high.org

SEE A SHOW

Head to a nearby theater to view an amazing production.

Roob and Noob

Manchester Orchestra’s The Stuffing

Fox Theatre

Nov. 18, 4:50 p.m.

Celebrate Thanksgiving with this annual concert. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-881-2100. $35+. foxtheatre.org

Thanksgiving Break Hikes

Chattahoochee Nature Center

Nov. 21-23, 11 a.m.-noon

Take in the views of the river with a guided hike on the River Boardwalk trail. Reservation required. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $15; ages 13-18, $11; ages 3-12, $9; ages 2 and younger, free. chattnaturecenter.org

Alliance Theatre / Oct. 26-Nov. 6. See website for showtimes.

Watch these two overly curious scientists discover something new, build machines and explore the wonders of the different seasons. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4600. $15; ages 6-17, $10; ages 3-5, $5; ages 2 and younger, free. alliancetheatre.org

Charlotte’s Web

Woodstock Arts / Nov. 11-20. See website for showtimes. Determined to save young pig Wilbur from the butcher, the extraordinary spider Charlotte weaves compliments in her web. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $18-$23. woodstockarts.org

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella Legacy Theater / Nov. 11-Dec. 18. Fri.-Sat. 7 p.m. and Sat.-Sun. 2 p.m.

This enchanting musical is a retelling of the classic fairy tale of Cinderella. 1175 Senoia Rd., Tyrone. 404-895-1473. $35-$45; ages 12 and younger, $15-$20. legacytheater.com

Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza

Fox Theatre / Nov. 26, 4 p.m.

Watch your favorite Disney Junior characters and Marvel Super Heroes perform with singing, dancing, acrobatics and more at this huge costume party. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-881-2100. $29.50-$49.50. foxtheatre.org

Apple Cider Days

Thanksgiving Break Hikes

Disney Junior Live On Tour

LAST CHANCE FOR FARM FUN

Head to these farms for a fall adventure with pumpkins, corn mazes, animals, activities and more.

Sleepy Hollow Farm

Through Nov. 5. Closed Mon.-Tues.; Wed.-Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Take a tractor ride, explore the corn maze, visit the pumpkin patch, play on the farm playground, and visit farm animals. Reservation required. 628 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Powder Springs. 770-880-8846. $13; ages 2 and younger, free. sleepyhollowtrees.com

Warbington Farms

Through Nov. 5. Tues.-Thur. noon-7 p.m. and Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Fun park including a corn maze, barnyard, hayride, slides, swings, jumping pillow, flowers and more. 5555 Crow Rd., Cumming. 770-889-1515. $13.50; ages 3 and younger, free. warbingtonfarms.com

Washington Farms

Through Nov. 6. Fri. 4-8 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. and Sun. 1-6 p.m. This farm features more than 35 activities, including a pumpkin patch, pick-your-own flowers, corn maze, campfires, delicious food and more. Reservation required. 5691 Hog Mountain Rd., Bogart. 706-769-0627. $18.91; ages 1 and younger, free. washingtonfarms.net

Southern Belle Farm

Through Nov. 6. Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sun. 1-4 p.m. Get lost in the corn maze, watch pigs race, explore the pumpkin patch, go on the cow train ride, race pedal carts and more. Advance ticket purchase encouraged. 1658 Turner Church Rd., McDonough. 770-288-2582. $14.95; ages 2 and younger, free. southernbellefarm.com

Jaemor Farms

Nov. 5, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Nov. 6, 1-6 p.m.

At the Harvest Celebration, explore the corn maze, go on a hayride, visit the petting zoo, play farm skeeball, shoot apple cannons, enjoy delicious concessions and more. 5340 Cornelia Hwy., Alto. 770-869-3999. $15; ages 2 and younger, free. jaemorfarms.com

Buford Corn Maze

Through Nov. 13. Fri. 6-10 p.m. and Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Solve the corn maze, race ducks, eat at the Barnyard Grill, play in the corn box, travel via a hayride, shop for pumpkins and more. View the alpacas on Nov. 4-6. 4470 Bennett Rd., Buford. $16; combo, $28. bufordcornmaze.com

Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch

Through Nov. 13. Fri. 4-10 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sun. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Along with the corn maze and pumpkin patch, shop fall décor, view goats on the towering goat walk, climb Tire Mountain, go on a wagon ride and more. For the little ones, check out the kiddy maze. 125 Bannister Rd., Dawsonville. 770-772-6223. $15. uncleshucks.com

Hillcrest Orchards

Through Nov. 30, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Pick apples and visit the Farm Market and Bakery for apple cider doughnuts or fried apple pies. Farm fun includes pig races, cow milking, a petting farm, giant slides, corn hole and more. U-pick apples limited due to a late frost. 9696 Hwy. 52 E, Ellijay. 706-273-3838. $12-$18; ages 1 and younger, free. hillcrestorchards.net

Red Apple Barn

Through Dec. 23. Sat. 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sun. 1-4 p.m. Go on a tractor ride to the orchard to pick an apple, enjoy apple cider and a doughnut, view the animals, pick flowers, play on the playground and tire swings and more. Apple picking available until the apples are picked. 3379 Tailscreek Rd., Ellijay. 706-635-5898. $10; ages 2 and younger, free. redapplebarn.com

Jaemor Farms

HONOR VETERANS

Veterans Day is a federal holiday that pays tribute to military veterans.

Veterans Day Ceremony

Brook Run Park

Nov. 11, 10-11 a.m.

Honor all who served with music, a guest speaker and invocation. 4770 N. Peachtree Rd., Dunwoody. 678-382-6700. Free admission. dunwoodyga.gov

Veterans Day Ceremony 2022

Veterans Park at Atlanta History Center

Nov. 11, 11 a.m.

Active duty service members, veterans, their families and grateful community members are invited to a ceremony with a keynote speaker, music and more. Advance reservation recommended. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. Free admission. atlantahistorycenter.com

PLACES TO VISIT

n Heritage Park. This 129-acre park is tons of fun for families with softball fields, a paved track, two playgrounds, a library, community gardens and more. Visit around Veterans Day to view the Veteran’s Wall of Honor, a 75-foot long granite wall engraved with depictions of battle scenes. Drop by the Veteran’s Historical Museum to view vehicles, uniforms and artifacts from America’s wars. 101 Lake Dow Rd., McDonough. 770-288-7300. Free admission. visithenrycountygeorgia.com

n Newtown Park. The Veterans Memorial Walk stands as a symbol of remembrance and respect for the men and women in the U.S. Armed Services. The five-acre memorial features monuments paying homage to each conflict starting with WWI, along with monuments for Purple Heart Recipients, POW/MIAs and Women in Service. The Wall That Heals, a 250foot replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, was added in 2020. 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek. 678-512-3200. Free admission. johnscreekga.gov

n American Legion Post 201. The Walk of Memories honors those who have bravely served the country with nearly 8,000 bricks inscribed with the names of Georgians who have served. Monuments along the walkway spotlight WWII, Korea and Vietnam Wars. You’ll also see a WWII M60 tank, a Vietnam-era helicopter and a twin gun mount on display. 201 Wills Rd., Alpharetta. 770-475-9023. Free admission. awesomealpharetta.com

Veteran’s Day Ceremony

Park at City Center / Nov. 11, 7-9 p.m. Join the City of Woodstock, MGen Warren R. Johnson Marine Corps League Detachment #1311 in Woodstock, the American Legion Post 316 Woodstock and the Warriors’ Watch

Riders to celebrate veterans. 101 Arnold Mill Rd., Woodstock. 770-517-6788. Free admission. visitwoodstockga.com

Georgia Veterans Day Parade

The Battery Atlanta Nov. 12, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Show support for military men and women with this parade, and after the parade, enjoy an observance ceremony and a festival.

Battery Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-539-0228. Free admission. georgiaveteransday.org

n Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center. Located on the grounds of this center, the Fallen Heroes Memorial pays tribute to Gwinnett residents who have died in the line of duty. The memorial honors about 700 individuals on black granite markers, and the central pedestal features a Gwinnett firefighter’s bronze sculpture of an eagle carrying a rose. 75 Langley Dr., Lawrenceville. 770-822-8000. Free admission. gwinnettcounty.com

Free Entrance Days:

n Brooke Street Park. Set behind Alpharetta City Hall, visit Brooke Street Park to view the Alpharetta Veterans Memorial. The centerpiece is a 7-foot tall bronze statue featuring two soldiers in full combat gear and is titled “The Defenders.” The memorial is a tribute to all who have served to protect America. 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta. 678-297-2811. Free admission. awesomealpharetta.com

National Parks / Nov. 11. Visit a National Park for free to commemorate Veterans Day. See website for locations. Free admission. nps.gov

Veterans Park at Atlanta History Center

Newtown Park

HOLIDAY COUNTDOWN

Atlanta’s festivities begin in November! Start planning your celebrations now.

Ballets and Shows

l Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Center for Puppetry Arts. Nov. 9-Dec. 31. See website for showtimes. Based on the beloved 1964 stop-motion special, see Rudolph and his misfit friends learn that it’s okay for them to be exactly who they are. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $21-$36. puppet.org

l The Nutcracker. Gas South Theater. Nov. 11-12, 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 12-13, 2:30 p.m. Presented by North Atlanta Dance Theatre, this holiday favorite adventures through the Land of Sweets to meet the Sugar Plum Fairy. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-813-7500. $24-$30. gassouthdistrict.com

l A Christmas Carol. Alliance Theatre. Nov. 12-Dec. 24. See website for showtimes. This adaptation of the famous story will include a reimagined set design and stunning new costumes. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4600. $17.50-$78; ages 5-19, $17.50-$54.60; ages 0-5, call for Lap Passes. alliancetheatre.org

l A Charlie Brown Christmas. Alpharetta Arts Center. Nov. 17-18, 7-9 p.m. The City of Alpharetta’s Youth Musical Theater presents this play with the City Center Players. 238 Canton St., Alpharetta. 678-297-6165. Free admission. awesomealpharetta.com

l The Nutcracker: Land of the Sweets. Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Nov. 18, 7 p.m.; Nov. 19, 1, 3:30 and 6:30 p.m. and Nov. 20, 3 and 6 p.m. Presented by the Dance & Music Academy, get into the holiday spirit with this classic adventure through the Land of Sweets. 950 Forrest St., Roswell. 770-924-1661. $15; ages 3 and younger, free. woodstocknutcracker.com

l A Very Grinchy Christmas. Gas South Theater. Nov. 19-20, 2:30 p.m. and Nov. 19, 7 p.m. Dr. Seuss’ classic children’s story meets “The Nutcracker” in this special performance from Southern Ballet Theatre. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464. $14.50-$21.50. gassouthdistrict.com

l Baby Shark Live! The Christmas Show. Atlanta Symphony Hall. Nov. 20, 2 and 6 p.m. Splash along with Baby Shark and Pinkfong as they journey into the sea to sing and dance to holiday songs and kids’ favorites. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4900. $26-$66+. aso.org

l The Gift of the Magi 2.0. Marietta’s New Theatre in the Square. Nov. 25-Dec. 4. Fri.-Sat. 8 p.m. and Sun. 2 p.m. Jim, an Atlanta streetcar driver, struggles to make ends meet during the holiday season, and he goes to great lengths to buy a gift for his wife Della. 11 Whitlock Ave., Marietta. 770-426-4800. $30-$45. theatreinthesquare.net

Photo by Chris Bartelski

Christmas Canteen

Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theatre’s The Nutcracker

l Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theatre’s The Nutcracker. Jennie T. Anderson Theatre. Nov. 25-27. Visit website for showtimes. See visions of sugar plums, waltzing flowers and dancing snowflakes in this classic ballet. 548 S. Marietta Pkwy. SE, Marietta. $20-$35. georgiametrodance.org

l The Nutcracker. Gas South Theater. Nov. 25 and 27, 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 26, 10 a.m., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Presented by the Northeast Atlanta Ballet, join Clara and her Nutcracker prince as they set out on a wonder-filled journey through the Land of the Snowflakes and Kingdom of the Sweets. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth. 770-626-2464. $25-$28. gassouthdistrict.com

l Roswell Dance Theatre Presents: The Nutcracker. Byers Theatre. Nov. 25-Dec. 4. See website for showtimes. This beloved holiday ballet takes Clara and her prince into a strange new world. 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs. 770-206-2022. $27-$40. citysprings.com

l Christmas Canteen. Lawrenceville Arts Center. Nov. 25-Dec. 23. See website for showtimes. This holiday tradition shows the magic of Christmas with songs, comic sketches and trips down memory lane. 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $30-$65. auroratheatre.com

l The Polar Express in Concert with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Atlanta Symphony Hall. Nov. 26, 7 p.m. and Nov. 27, 3 p.m. Watch “The Polar Express” as it’s accompanied by a live orchestra. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-733-4900. $39.50-$69+. aso.org

l Mannheim Steamroller Christmas. Fox Theatre. Nov. 27, 2 and 7 p.m. Experience the spirit of the season with Christmas music and dazzling multimedia effects. 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-881-2100. $49+. foxtheatre.org

Santa Arrivals and Tree Lightings

l Holiday Tree Lighting. Atlanta History Center. Nov. 18, 7 p.m. Kick off the holiday season by watching this 50-foot Christmas tree be lit, listening to music, taking photos with Santa, playing children’s activities and more. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-814-4000. $20; ages 3 and younger, free. atlantahistorycenter.com

l Santa Arrives! Southeastern Railway Museum. Nov. 19, 1-4 p.m. Santa Claus arrives by train for photos with friends and family. Advance ticket purchase recommended. 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770476-2013. $18; ages 2-12, $12; ages 1 and younger, free. trainmuseum.org

l Jingle Mingle. Historic Downtown Gainesville Square. Nov. 19, 4-8 p.m. Bask in the holiday spirit with live music, carriage rides, kiddie train rides, Santa, the lighting of the chicken and more. 301 Main St., Gainesville. 770-535-6860. Free admission. gainesville.org

l The Lighting of Avalon. Avalon. Nov. 20, 1-8 p.m. Get in the holiday spirit with a magnificent tree lighting, festive music and an appearance from Old Saint Nick. 400 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-1000. Free admission. awesomealpharetta.com

l Lighting of the Tree. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. Nov. 24, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Watch as the Greet Tree is lit before visiting with Santa, enjoy kids’ activities, s’mores, live entertainment and more. 185 Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-822-5450. Free admission. downtownlawrencevillega.com

l Santa on the Square. Downtown Newnan. Nov. 25, 6-8 p.m. Watch Santa arrive in a fire truck to light the Christmas tree before your visit. N. Court Sq., Newnan. 770-253-8283. Free admission. mainstreetnewnan.com

l Christmas Tree Lighting. Snellville Towne Green. Nov. 26, 5-8 p.m. Watch the Lighted Christmas Parade from Wisteria Plaza to the Towne Green, along with a tree lighting, cookie decorating, s’mores and more. 2342 Oak Rd. SW, Snellville. 770-310-0429. Free admission for parade and visiting with Santa; activities, extra. experiencesnellville.com

A Very Grinchy Christmas

Jingle Mingle

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

The Lighting of Avalon

SPONSORED BY

Festive Fun

l Festival of Trees. Town Center at Cobb. Nov. 11-Dec. 26. Mon.-Thur. 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sun. noon-6 p.m. View beautifully decorated trees and support local nonprofits lining the Belk Wing. 400 Ernest Barrett Pkwy., Kennesaw. 770-424-0742. Free admission. towncenteratcobb.com

l Holiday Kids Fair. Town Center at Cobb. Nov. 12, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy pretty Christmas trees, vendors, music, performances, giveaways and crafts for kids. 400 Ernest Barrett Pkwy., Kennesaw. 770-424-0742. Free admission. towncenteratcobb.com

l Stone Mountain Christmas. Stone Mountain Park. Nov. 12-Jan. 1. See website for times. Immerse yourself in holiday magic with a new 20-minute light show, festive music, spectacular shows, holiday characters and more. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. 800-401-2407. $39.95; ages 3-12, $34.95; ages 2 and younger, free. stonemountainpark.com

Winter Market at the

Stone Mountain Christmas

Holiday Model Trains

l Holiday Model Trains. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Nov. 12-Jan. 14. Sat.-Sun. 9 a.m.8 p.m. This delightful holiday display runs day and night on the Alston Overlook. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $27.95; ages 3-12, $24.95; ages 2 and younger, free. atlantabg.org

l Georgia Festival of Trees. Georgia World Congress Center. Nov. 19-27. See website for schedule. This holiday event features dazzling holiday trees, a gingerbread house competition, photos with Santa, games, cookie decorating and more. 285 Andrew Young International Blvd. NW, Atlanta. 678-783-4455. $19.46; ages 4-12, $14.30; ages 3 and younger, free. gafestivaloftrees.org

l Holiday in the Park. Six Flags Over Georgia. Nov. 19-Jan. 1. See website for hours. More than 1 million LED lights, dozens of Christmas trees, festive shows and culinary treats create the perfect winter wonderland atmosphere. 275 Riverside Pkwy. SW, Austell. 770-739-3400. $49.99+; parking, $30. sixflags.com

l A Country Christmas. Pettit Creek Farms. Nov. 24-Dec. 30. Tues.-Thur. 6-9 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 6-10 p.m. and Sun. 6-9 p.m. Take a drive or hayride through beautiful Christmas lights, visit with Santa and his reindeer from Thur.-Sun., meet the animals at the petting zoo, and taste s’mores. 337 Cassville Rd., Cartersville. 770-386-8688. $30-$45; hayride, $10. pettitcreekfarms.com

l Winter House. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. Nov. 25-Dec. 10. See website for schedule. Enjoy twinkling lights and delicious treats in this historic mansion filled with holiday magic, activities, an artist market, photos with Santa and workshops. 980 Briarcliff Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-872-5338. Free admission; pre-purchase tickets for workshops and performances. callanwolde.org

l Christmas on the Farm. Southern Belle Farm. Nov. 25-Dec. 18. See website for hours. Visit with Santa, drive pedal karts, go on a hayride or train ride, play games, see barnyard animals, and more. 1658 Turner Church Rd., McDonough. 770-288-2582. $3+. southernbellefarm.com

Sensory-Friendly Performances

l Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Center for Puppetry Arts. Nov. 13, 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-3391, puppet.org

l The Nutcracker Ballet. Georgia Ballet. Dec. 1, 7 p.m. 548 S. Marietta Pkwy. SE, Marietta. 770-528-0881, georgiaballet.org

l A Christmas Carol. Georgia Shakespeare Company. Dec. 10, 2:30 p.m. 499 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta. 404-874-5299, shakespearetavern.com

l A Christmas Carol. Woodstock Arts. Dec. 17, 10 a.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251, woodstockarts.org

ARE YOU ON THE LIST?

Holiday in the Park

Dazzling Light Displays

l Garden Lights, Holiday Nights. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Nov. 12-Jan. 14, 5-10 p.m. New this year, see an installation of illuminated large metal sculptures of birds, and walk along a colorful Glowing Grove in the Flower Walk, watch lights dance to music and more. Reservation required. 1345 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $27.95-$47.95; ages 3-12, $24.95-$44.95; ages 2 and younger, free; parking, $5-$10. atlantabg.org

l Let It Shine Lightshow. Coolray Field. Nov. 18-Jan. 1, 6-10 p.m. Drive through this Christmas light show experience for a wonderland of lights synchronized to fun holiday classics. 2500 Buford Dr., Lawrenceville. 312-467-7334. $32.99-$42.99. shinelightshow.com

l Fantasy In Lights. Callaway Gardens. Nov. 18-Jan. 1. See website for schedule. Christmas cheer includes an all-new Callaway Christmas Village, twinkling lights, nutcrackers, snowflakes, decorated trees and more holiday lights and seasonal sights. 17617 US-27, Pine Mountain. 800-225-5292. $24.95-$39.95; ages 3-11, $19.95-$34.95; ages 2 and younger, free. callawaygardens.com

l Holiday Lights at Veteran’s Park. Veteran’s Park. Nov. 19-Dec. 31. See website for schedule. View lights at this two-mile drive-thru show. 7345 Cumming Hwy., Canton. $20 per car. facebook.com/ holidaylightsatveterans

l Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular. Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. Nov. 19-Jan. 16. See website for schedule. Go on a magical walk through an amazing light show set to festive seasonal music. 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 470-3233440. $24.99; ages 3-7, $19.99; ages 2 and younger, free. margaritavilleresorts.com

l IllumiNights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival. Zoo Atlanta. Nov. 21-Jan. 15, 5:30-9:30 p.m. Illuminated wildlife lights the night at this Chinese lantern festival with more than 80 nature-inspired lanterns. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta. 404-624-9453. $20.99-$24.99; ages 3-11, $17.99-$19.99; ages 2 and younger, free. zooatlanta.org

l Winter WonderLights. State Botanical Garden of Georgia. Nov. 23-Jan. 8. See website for schedule. Walk through sparkling light displays, including a Garden of Delights, a Cone Tree Plaza and a Candy Cane Lane, and shop the holiday market. 2450 S. Milledge Ave., Athens. 706-5421244. $15; ages 3 and younger, free. wonderlights.uga.edu

l Lights of Life. Life University. Nov. 24-Dec. 31. See website for schedule. Drive through a 1.5-mile light display, and enjoy an array of seasonal entertainments, including pony rides, train rides and the petting zoo. 1269 Barclay Cir., Marietta. 800-543-3202. $10; buses, $20. travelcobb.org

l Winter West Wonderland. University of West Georgia. Nov. 29-Dec. 2, 4:30-9 p.m. Walk through a winter wonderland with lighted displays of student-built sculptures, a holiday market, photos with Kris Kringle and Winter Wolfie and more. 302 W. Georgia Dr., Carrollton. 678-839-5000. Free admission; some activities, extra. westga.edu

l World of Illumination’s Reindeer Road. Six Flags White Water. Nov. 16-Jan. 1, 6-10 p.m. See a gorgeous light display synchronized to a music show, and on Magic Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, visit with Santa. 250 Cobb Pkwy. N, Marietta. $39.99-$49.99. worldofillumination.com

IllumiNights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights

CUT-YOUR-OWN CHRISTMAS TREE FARMS NEAR ATLANTA

Start a family tradition with a trip to a Christmas tree farm! Most also offer pre-cut trees, wreaths and garland; look for kid-friendly activities like hayrides and petting farms. Call to verify hours and tree availability before heading out.

l Barn Hill Tree Farm: This family farm has cut-your-own trees, a fire pit, marshmallows to toast, and plenty of photo ops. Opens Nov. 25. Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. 417 Oklahoma Ave. W., Dahlonega. 770-851-2432. barnhilltreefarm.com

l Berry’s Tree Farm: Seven tree varieties to choose from, plus train rides, concessions, a petting zoo and more. Take pictures with Santa (select dates). Opens Nov. 19. Mon.-Thurs. noon-7 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. 70 Mt. Tabor Rd., Covington. 770-786-5833. berrystreefarm.com

l Bottoms Tree Farm: Take a hay ride, enjoy cider and hot chocolate, and take photos with Santa (select dates). Nov. 19-Dec. 17. See website for hours. 5880 John Burruss Rd., Cumming. 706-429-3173. bottomstreefarm.com

l Hunter’s Christmas Tree Farm: Cut your own Leyland Cypress, take a hay ride, feed the ducks and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. Opens Nov. 19. Mon. and Fri., 4 p.m.-dusk; Sat., 9 a.m.-dusk. 14680 Wood Rd., Milton. 770-475-0713. hunterschristmastreefarm.com

l Kinsey Family Farm: Take a wagon ride to choose your tree, then warm up with marshmallow roasting and hot cocoa. Opens Nov. 25. See website for hours. 7170 Jot-em Down Rd., Gainesville. 770-887-6028. kinseyfamilyfarm.com

l Minter’s Farm: Choose from Virginia Pines, Murray Cypress, Carolina Sapphire and more. Take a hay ride and enjoy cider from the market store. Nov. 24-Dec. 24. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 283 Hill’s Bridge Rd., Fayetteville. 770-461-2840. mintersfarm.com

l Sleepy Hollow Farm: Cut your tree and visit the country store. Opens Nov. 19. Tues.-Fri., 2-6 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 628 Sleepy Hollow Rd., Powder Springs. 770-880-8846. sleepyhollowtrees.com

l Southern Cypress Christmas Tree Farm: Cut your own tree and shop for wreaths, tree boxes and gifts at the market. Opens Nov. 24. See website for hours. 851 L.C. Pope Rd. East, Dublin. 478-279-2528. facebook.com/ southerncypresschristmastrees

l Sugarland Tree Farm: Find the perfect tree, then visit the Sugarhaus for decorations, wreaths and gifts. Take photos with Santa on select dates. Opens Nov. 25. See website for hours. 3933 Hwy. 155, Stockbridge. 770-957-6438. sugarlandtreefarm.com

l Thompson’s Tree Farm: Choose from five types of evergreen trees and enjoy cider and hot chocolate. Opens Nov. 19 by appointment only. Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 9-6 p.m. 1829 Prospect Rd., Lawrenceville. 770-513-2552. thompsonstreefarm.com

l Yule Forest: Stay warm with homemade apple cider and take a winter hay ride before choosing your tree. Opens Nov. 18. Daily, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 3565 Hwy. 155 N., Stockbridge. 770-954-9356. yuleforest.com

SNOW AND ICE

Winter Thrills at License to Chill Snow Island

This year, License to Chill Snow Island opens for the season on Nov. 19. There’s tons of fun to be had with unlimited snow tubing, amusement rides, playing in the snow, delicious food and treats and more! Get outdoors for fresh air with snow tubing, including Blizzard Mountain, an adrenalineboosting tubing experience on the 575-foot-long, eight-story snow slide. Glide around Frosty’s Ice Rink for fun ice skating. Hop on the carousel, cruise on the bumper cars, ride the Ferris wheel and more with the Snow Island Amusement Rides. Play in the snow, challenge your family to a snowball fight or create snow angels in Snowball Alley.

Grab a quick bite at Glacier Café, which offers cheeseburgers, chicken tenders and combos, as well as cocoa, signature cocktails and favorite brews, while you enjoy the spectacular view from the patio. At the Bakeshop, treat yourself to cookies, cake pops and flavored bark, or purchase a s’mores kit for roasting marshmallows at the firepits. If you’re not super hungry, you can enjoy a quick snack at Jack Frost’s Shark Shack, and adults will love the brews and cocktails available at Tipsy Snowman.

n Details: 7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Buford. 470-323-3440. $54.99; ages 3-7, $39.99; ages 2 and younger, free; All Access Day Ticket, $69.99. margaritavillelanierislands.com

GO SKATE

The Ice Rink

Sugar Hill. Nov. 10-Feb. 19. See website for hours. Practice your moves on this outdoor rink – it’s the same size as the rink at Rockefeller Center. 5039 W. Broad St., Sugar Hill. 770-554-7506. $12; ages 8 and younger, $10; skate rental, $3. haidrinks.com

Skate the Station

Atlantic Station. Nov. 16-Jan. 16. See website for hours. Skate under the stars at this large outdoor skating rink. 1380 Atlantic Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-410-4010. $15. atlanticstation.com

Ice Days

Legion Field Fair Grounds. Nov. 17-Feb. 19. See website for hours. This covered rink features real ice; after skating, stop for a treat at the snack bar. 3173 Mill St. NE, Covington. 678-374-7655. $12. icedays.com/covington

Olde Town on Ice

Olde Town Conyers Pavilion. Nov. 18-Feb. 13. See website for hours. This indoor/outdoor rink has been in operation for 20 years and is made with real ice. 949 S. Main St., Conyers. 678-374-7655. $12. icedays.com/conyers

Sweetland on Ice

Sweetland Amphitheatre. Nov. 18-Feb. 14. See website for hours. Practice your moves at this outdoor rink. 110 Smith St., LaGrange. 706-298-5434. $14; ages 10 and younger, $10. visitlagrange.com

Avalon On Ice Avalon. Nov. 20-Jan. 16. See website for hours. Get in the holiday spirit at this festive outdoor rink. 2200 Avalon Blvd., Alpharetta. 770-765-1000. $18; ages 9 and younger, $14. experienceavalon.com

The Rink Park Tavern. Nov. 25-Feb. 15. Mon.-Fri., 4:30 p.m.-midnight; Sat.-Sun., 11:30 a.m.-midnight. This Midtown rink has a heated tent, state-of-the-art sound system and rink-side dining. After 8:30 p.m., The Rink becomes an ages 16+ venue. 500 10th St. NE, Atlanta. 404-249-0001. $15-$20. parktavern.com

It’s unusual to see snow or ice in Georgia, but not at these venues sporting wintry weather.

Photo by Addison Hill

The Rink – Park Tavern

Skate the Station – Atlanta Station

NOT-TO-MISS EXHIBITS

These venues combine education and fun for interactive learning and cool experiences.

See websites for hours.

In a Galaxy Far, Far Away Head to the new Exhibition Hub, Atlanta Art Center to view

The Fans Strike Back: The Largest Star Wars Fan Exhibition. Explore one of the world’s most beloved franchises with the largest private collection of official Star Wars items, including life-size figures, models, photos, posters, costumes and more. Opening Nov. 11. 5660 Buford Hwy. NE, Atlanta. $29.50+; ages 4-12, $19.90+; ages 3 and younger, free. thefansstrikebackexhibition.com

Across the Stars

At Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s Journey to Space, explore the vacuum of space, radiation, meteoroids and temperature extremes by climbing aboard an orbiting space station. Learn more with games and multimedia components that show how astronauts eat, sleep and even go to the bathroom while in space. Through Jan. 1. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6300. $24.95; ages 3-12, $22.95; ages 2 and younger, free. fernbankmuseum.org

No Pup’s Too Small

Help your favorite pals from the hit show Paw Patrol at PAW Patrol: Adventure Play at Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Join Marshall, Chase, Skye, Rubble, Everest, Rocky, Zuma and Tracker as you explore your unique abilities, overcome challenges and help friends. You’ll even get to drive the PAW Patroller on a rescue mission! Through Jan. 8. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. $13.95-$17.95; ages 11 months and younger, free. childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Double, Double, Toil and Trouble

Celebrate the iconic moments, characters, settings and beasts seen in the Harry Potter film series and the Wizarding World at Harry Potter: The Exhibition at the 200 Peachtree Building. Featuring storytelling, interactive technology and original props and costumes, prepare for an immersive wizarding adventure with classes, Quidditch practice and more. Through Feb. 28. 155 Carnegie Way NW, Atlanta. $29; ages 3-12, $25; ages 2 and younger, free. atlanta.harrypotterexhibition.com

for the fridge

Kids mispronouncing things is super adorable but at some point I will have to tell my daughter we don’t put Farmer John cheese on spaghetti.

Simon Holland @simoncholland

Favorite characters also available for birthday parties. Book early to secure talent. Atlanta

Based Since 2001.

Pretty Princess By JACI Kidz prettyprincesskidz.com

The BEST place to have a birthday party fit for a princess. Choose between a spa, dance, or art party. We can customize any birthday package. Pick a theme and leave the rest to us.

BIRTHDAY PARTY PLANNER

Zone of Light Studio ZoneofLightStudio.com

Zone of Light is THE place for any kind of party, you tell us what you want – we’ll make it a party! Plus, we have the coolest Black Light room. Check us out – we put the ART in parties!

Altitude Trampoline Park altitudeeastcobb.com

Altitude Trampoline Park is the place for kids to freeplay! Parties are indoor adventures that will have guests bouncing, soaring, tumbling and battling their way to a one-of-kind experience. Call today! 770-693-7627.

remember. Latina owned and Eco-Friendly. @Celebrar_Events. 770-715-6166.

Pastry Addict pastryaddict.com

Pastry Addict is the perfect combination of taste, style, and service. Cakes and desserts will be the show-stopping centerpiece of your event. Wow your party guests with a custom dessert! Call today. 404-500-9760.

Ms. Jennifer’s Music Birthday Party MusicBirthdayParty.com

Celebrate your baby’s special day with live music! Circle-dances and sing-alongs, our music birthday parties are perfect for 1-4 year olds and guests of all ages. 404-618-1475.

Jason’s Music Party jasonsmusicparty.com

A Birthday Concert for Your Child. Interactive live kids music for all occasions. Performing classics and new favorites, percussion jams, singing, dancing and more. Options for every budget. Easy set-up, best for ages 1-8.

KB Fun Zone KBFunZone.com

Step foot into the KB Fun Zone. A mobile gaming truck party offering a top-of the-line gaming experience. Equipped with the latest and greatest video games. Book your party today! 404-916-0703.

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SECTION

WALK THROUGH YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE SCENES IN AN ALL-NEW, MULTI-SENSORY EXPERIENCE