Cannot Miss Holiday Events

Milledgeville comes alive with holiday cheer, offering a wide range of festive events that are sure to make your season memorable. Whether you're strolling through enchanting light displays, enjoying a magical paddle on the Oconee River, or taking in a captivating holiday performance, there's no shortage of experiences to embrace the spirit of the season. From November through December, be sure to mark your calendar with these can't-miss events that highlight the warmth and charm of Milledgeville during the holidays.

November Signature Events

November 2nd - Chicago The Musical at Georgia Military College

Join Georgia Military College Prep School Performing Arts for their captivating performances of Chicago the Musical on Thursday, October 31st, and Saturday, November 2nd, both at 7:00 p.m. Convicted and sent to death row, Roxie and fellow "Merry Murderess" Velma Kelly compete for fame and headlines while ultimately joining forces in pursuit of the elusive "American Dream."

November 2nd - Sunset Paddle

Join Oconee Outfitters for a magical Sunset Paddle on the Oconee River, a 3-hour adventure that allows you to paddle under the stars as the sun sets over the water. Starting at the Oconee River Greenway, you'll embark on a serene 4.5-mile journey to Central State, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the river at dusk, accompanied by the sights and sounds of nocturnal wildlife. The experience includes kayak rental, paddle, PFD, and shuttle service from the Central State Boat Ramp to the Oconee River Greenway—don't miss this unique evening on the water, and be sure to register now!

November 6th - 9th - Twelfth Night at Georgia College

Join Georgia College & State University's Department of Theatre & Dance for their production of Twelfth Night, a classic Shakespearean comedy of mistaken identities and unrequited love. This lively performance runs from November 6th-9th at 7:30 p.m. and November 10th at 2:00 p.m. at the Campus Black Box Theatre in downtown Milledgeville.

November 14th - Lockerly in Lights

Lockerly in Lights returns this holiday season, running every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from November 14th to December 21st. Thursday nights are drive-through only from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with tickets available for $15 per car, cash only at the gate. On Friday and Saturday nights, the garden transforms into a walk-through experience with advance tickets required, available online for $10 per adult and $5 for children aged 3-12.

November 16th - Christmas at the Mansion

Experience the holiday season at Georgia's Old Governor's Mansion, adorned with 19th-century holiday decor and open for tours from November 16th-23rd and December 3rd-23rd, 2024. Step into the traditions of Milledgeville's earliest families and enjoy a glimpse of the past. Don't miss Photos with Santa on Friday, December 13th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with reservations required.

November 20th - Rein-Dog Night at Lockerly Arboretum

Bring your furry friends to Lockerly Arboretum for Rein-Dogs on November 20th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., where pups can enjoy a festive evening strolling through the sparkling lights of Lockerly in Lights. Dogs are encouraged to dress in their cutest holiday outfits, and guests are asked to bring a pet food or treat donation to benefit ARF Animal Rescue Foundation. Tickets are $20 per dog, including admission for two humans, with the event sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

November 22nd A& 23rd - Bountiful: Fall Dance Concert

The Department of Theatre and Dance presents Chi Tau Epsilon's 11th annual Bountiful Fall Dance Concert on November 22-23 at 7:30 p.m. in Russell Auditorium. This student-produced event showcases choreography by Guest Artist Jillian Mitchell and talented GCSU undergraduate artists. Tickets are available at tickets.gcsu.com, with general admission at $15 and discounted rates for seniors, students, and children.

November 28th - Christmas Cove on Lake Sinclair

Experience the magic of Christmas Cove, a unique holiday light show on Lake Sinclair, open exclusively at sunset from November 28th to December 31st. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride as you drift past festive displays like cheerful snowmen and Santa's sleigh, all reflected on the calm lake waters. Located near Sinclair Dam, this one-of-a-kind spectacle is only viewable by boat, making it a truly enchanting experience.

December Signature Events

December 2nd - 4th & 9th - 11th - Milledgeville Trolley Express

Hop aboard the Milly Trolley Express for a magical journey to the North Pole! With your golden ticket in hand, you'll enjoy a special reading of The Polar Express by Liam Neeson while meeting characters from the beloved story. Rides are available December 2-4 and 9-11, with multiple departures each evening—tickets go on sale November 12th!

December 6th - First Friday: Holiday on Hancock

Milledgeville Main Street is gearing up to fill downtown Milly with Christmas cheer, culminating in the festive tree lighting at 6:00 p.m. on the First Friday in December. Gather with family and friends to admire the beautifully illuminated Christmas tree right in the heart of downtown. Be sure to stop by City Hall to drop off your letters to Santa in Main Street’s special Christmas mailbox!

December 6th - Georgia College’s 17th Annual Holiday Concert

Join Georgia College for the 17th Annual Holiday Concert at 7:30 p.m. in Russell Auditorium, featuring the entire music department and guest artist David Coucheron, concertmaster of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Enjoy a delightful mix of old favorites and new tunes performed by various ensembles, including the Wind Symphony, String Quartet, and University Chorus. 

December 7th & 21st - Candlelight Tours at the Mansion

The Old Governor’s Mansion is transformed into a Christmas wonderland for its annual Christmas tours, featuring twinkling lights and a majestic choir. Evening candlelight tours, complete with lit candles and singing choirs in the rotunda, will take place at 6:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., and 8:00 p.m. on December 7th and 21st, with reservations required.

December 7th- Merry Milly Market

The Merry Milly Market invites visitors to explore a delightful selection of unique arts, crafts, and homemade treats on Saturday, December 7th, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Organized by Milledgeville Main Street, this enchanting event showcases the talent of local artisans, featuring everything from handmade jewelry and textiles to pottery and delicious snacks. It provides the perfect opportunity for attendees to find special gifts for their loved ones while supporting the creative community in Milledgeville.

December 7th - Milledgeville Christmas Parade

Join the festive fun at the annual Milledgeville Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 7th, starting at 3:00 p.m. The parade will travel through Downtown Milledgeville, beginning at the South Gate of Georgia Military College and featuring marching bands, elaborately decorated floats, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Presented by the Milledgeville Exchange Club, this event is a wonderful celebration of community spirit and holiday cheer!

December 9th- Brown Stetson Sanford House Holiday Open House

The Brown Stetson Sanford House will host a festive Holiday Open House on December 9th at 5:30 p.m., inviting the community to celebrate the season within one of Milledgeville's most storied landmarks. This event offers live holiday music, seasonal decor by the Carrington Woods Garden Club, and light refreshments, creating a warm, historic ambiance for visitors to enjoy. As guests explore the nearly 200-year-old inn and tavern, knowledgeable docents will be available to share stories from its remarkable history, with donations accepted to support future preservation efforts. 

December 11th - 25th - Reindeer Flight School

Experience Baldwin County's largest lights display at the Reindeer Flight School, where you can stroll through a winter wonderland featuring over 40,000 dazzling lights on trees, snowflakes, wreaths, and flying reindeer. From December 11th to December 25th, enjoy abundant photo opportunities, including a chance to climb atop a life-size wooden reindeer, with Santa making special appearances on Friday and Saturday nights from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.

December 13th - 15th - Georgia College’s The Nutcracker

Celebrate the festive holiday tradition of The Nutcracker, featuring dancers of all ages from the Community Dance and Dance Minor programs in its 28th year. Directed by Natalie King, the performances will take place at Russell Auditorium on December 13th and 14th at 7:30 p.m., with a matinee on December 15th at 2:00 p.m. Don’t miss this enchanting production that brings the magic of the season to life!

December 15th - Jingle Jog at Lockerly Arboretum

Join Lockerly Arboretum on December 15th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. for the Jingle Jog, where participants can run or walk at their own pace through stunning holiday lights. This festive event is suitable for all ages and creates a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the season's spirit. The cost is $15 per person, and attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the Chard Wray Food Pantry, helping spread joy to those in need during the holidays.

December 18th - Date Night at Lockerly Arboretum

Enjoy an enchanting evening of romance and charm at Lockerly Arboretum on December 18th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Couples can stroll beneath twinkling holiday lights while savoring fine wine, delicious food, and the captivating beauty of the Forest Forms exhibit. Priced at $80 per couple, this event includes everything needed for the perfect date night, including a cozy blanket to make the night truly magical.

See our full events calendar here.