As the holidays approach, the inevitable shopping mania follows. A magical Christmas market provides opportunities to buy one-of-a-kind gifts for family and friends. The Atlanta holiday bazaar and Christmas market spots usually feature artists, craftspeople, and creative minds selling products you wouldn't find in big box retailers or online. Think about these holiday markets like walking through an Etsy wonderland! Here's the best part: Christmas market locations offer more than great artisans —many of these events may have Santa sightings, live music, food trucks, freebies, and more.

Take a look at our favorite Atlanta holiday and Christmas market events sure to make everyone on your gift list smile!

Ice skating near Atlanta is the quintessential winter activity, whether you're ready for the Olympic trials or can barely stand upright. Though it may take a few turns around the ice skating rink to get your "ice legs," adults and children alike enjoy spending time together spinning, skating, and realistically, falling down, together. These seasonal outdoor ice skating rinks pop up each year from November through January or February.  Families can find lots of ice skating in Atlanta, most of which include fun music and concessions like hot chocolate. We've rounded up the best ones and even included one that requires no skates at all (sock skating at Fernbank)! 

Take a look at our favorite spots to nail that triple toe loop or cling to the ice skating rink wall and put in family bonding time on the ice! Want more ideas this holiday season? Read about Harry Potter: The Exhibition Atlanta and make a visit to Hogwarts or ride a Polar Express Train Ride and Christmas Train Near Atlanta. If you need more ideas of what to do in Atlanta, visit our Atlanta events calendar.