Nestled at the base of the Appalachian Mountains is a small town discovered by big Hollywood. It’s home to one of Hallmark’s 2016 Christmas movies.

Before its debut on the big screen a few years ago, Dahlonega, Georgia, was known for being a small college town with a history of gold….. literal GOLD! Small mining attractions can be found dotted around the area for tourist to enjoy ‘striking it rich’ in the mountains. The University of North Georgia boasts an ever growing campus that seems to be a large portion of the town. Their ROTC program is well known for bringing out some of the best for our military.

But what really attracts people from all walks of life to Dahlonega is the small quaint town that offers an assortment of activities for you to enjoy all year long. However, just after Thanksgiving, the lights go up, the shops extend their hours, and people flock from all over to experience a real life Hallmark Christmas movie moment.

Christmas in Dahlonega is no small thing. It’s a big deal. The downtown ‘square’ is decked out in Christmas lights. Garland, bows, wreaths and more adorn the shops. Hot chocolate is the drink of choice. Oh, and don’t forget to stop by and say hello to Santa just outside the Visitor’s Center.

Daily between Thanksgiving and the New Year, the lights will be on display along with horse drawn carriage rides (for a fee). Throughout December, the Festival of Trees can be found in Hancock Park; just one block off the square - each tree on display is decorated by a local business. Other activities such as Christmas Sip & Paint and Pancakes & Pajamas can be enjoyed on select dates. For more information about all the activities available during the Christmas season, visit Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas website here.

If you are a fan of the Hallmark Channel’s annual Christmas movie marathons, you may want to look for certain landmarks displayed in their 2016 movie, “Christmas In Homestead”. The ‘Homestead Inn’ is actually the Baptist Collegiate Ministries building; located approx. two blocks away from the festive square. The Holly Theater makes its own debut at the very end of the movie. The theater already being aptly named for a Christmas movie can be found just off the square also.

Top off your day with some delicious fare at any of the local restaurants. Options range from seafood to pizza to down home southern cooking. We chose to experience a bit of Ireland at the popular local pub, Shenanigans. With outdoor and indoor seating, the quaint pub stays quite busy. Be sure to check out the currency covered walls inside.

Whether a day trip or a long weekend getaway, you will leave filled with the Christmas spirit and probably lots of hot chocolate. There’s nothing quite like a southern Christmas but throw in some Hallmark magic and you certainly won’t be disappointed.

Merry Christmas everyone! Blessings to you and your loved ones in the New Year!