Here are five of the best things to enjoy in Northeast Georgia in December

Northeast Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains

Here are five of the best things to enjoy in Northeast Georgia in December, when the mountains take on a festive, peaceful charm and holiday traditions are in full swing:

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1. Experience Holiday Lights and Small-Town Christmas Events

December transforms mountain towns such as Dahlonega, Helen, Blue Ridge, and Cleveland into glowing holiday villages. Dahlonega’s “Old-Fashioned Christmas” is especially renowned, with its illuminated square, horse-drawn carriages, and live performances. [About Dahlonega]
Why December is ideal: Cool evenings, twinkling lights, and a classic mountain-town holiday atmosphere.

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2. Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway’s Holiday Train

The railway offers special Holiday Express excursions in December, featuring Christmas music, storytelling, festive treats, and decorated train cars. It is a family favorite and also a nostalgic experience for adults. [About the BRSR]
Why December is ideal: The route feels magical when the trees are bare and the lights along the river come alive.

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3. Visit a Mountain Winery for Winter Tastings

North Georgia’s vineyards — including those in Dahlonega, Cleveland, and Young Harris — stay active through winter. Tasting rooms are warm and inviting, often with fireplaces, seasonal wines, and panoramic mountain views free of crowds. [North Georgia Wine Tour]
Why December is ideal: Cozy, quiet, and scenic, with winter wine releases and holiday pairings.

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4. Hike to Winter Waterfalls and Scenic Overlooks

Cold, clear December days offer some of the best visibility of the year. Waterfalls such as Amicalola Falls, Helton Creek Falls, and Anna Ruby Falls are especially striking with higher winter flow and fewer visitors. [Top 5 Waterfalls Near Blue Ridge]
Why December is ideal: Crisp air, open views, excellent photography, and peaceful trails.

Your November Family Fun List

Northeast Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains

1. Visit a state park for late fall foliage and outdoor views

Amicalola Falls is in the North Georgia mountains near Dahlonega and offers a stunning waterfall (the highest in Georgia) plus hiking trails.

November is a great time because the leaf-color season is generally still going strong in the mountains, and the cooler air makes being outside more comfortable.

Tip: Go early in the day (fewer crowds) and bring layers (mountain temps drop, especially in the morning/evening).

2. Explore small mountain towns + local vineyards/wineries

Blue Ridge and nearby towns in North Georgia are ideal for a relaxed “getaway” — charming downtowns, scenic drives, and fall scenery.

November is also good for visiting wineries, craft breweries, and taking in harvest-season ambiance.

Tip: Combine a scenic drive + wine tasting + local dinner at one of the town’s cozy mountain restaurants.

3. Go apple-picking or visit an orchard

Many orchards in North Georgia invite visitors for apple-picking, cider donuts, and general fall fun.

Even in November, depending on the season, you can find orchards still active and less crowded than peak October.

Tip: Check online for the orchard’s schedule (some close earlier than you expect) and bring a cooler if you’ll take apples home.

4. Scenic drives & overlooks for mountain views

Brasstown Bald is the highest point in Georgia and gives panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains—especially dramatic with autumn color.

A drive up + moderate walk rewards with a “mountain top” feel without having to commit to a long, strenuous hike.

Tip: Weather can be windier and colder at the summit—dress accordingly and bring a jacket.

5. Attend fall festivals / early holiday events

As fall transitions into the holiday season, many towns host live music, craft fairs, and light-up events in November.

The ambiance in early November is often cozy: fewer crowds than peak summer/fall, crisp air, warm cafés.

Tip: Check local “events calendar” for the exact weekends (weather can affect things) and pick lodging in advance if it’s a “light-up” or festival weekend.

Top 10 Things to Do in Northeast Georgia This October

Northeast Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains

Top 10 Things to Do in Northeast Georgia This October

October in Northeast Georgia is pure magic — crisp mountain air, fiery fall colors, and that unmistakable small-town charm around every corner. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or savoring a glass of wine with a view, here are ten unforgettable ways to celebrate the season:

1. Cruise the Scenic Byways for Fall Foliage

Roll down the windows and take in the views along the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway or Wolfpen Gap Road. Every turn reveals a kaleidoscope of color as the Blue Ridge Mountains put on their autumn show.

2. Celebrate Helen’s Famous Oktoberfest

Step into Bavaria right here in Georgia! Helen’s Oktoberfest runs all month long, with lively polka music, dancing, hearty German fare, and locally brewed beer. It’s a must for festive fall vibes. [ https://highsouthadventures.com/helen%20ga.html ]

3. Explore Tallulah Gorge State Park

This breathtaking canyon is even more spectacular in October. Hike the rim trails for sweeping views or, if you’re adventurous, grab a limited gorge floor permit to see the waterfalls up close. 

4. Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

All aboard! This nostalgic train journey takes you along the Toccoa River, through golden forests, and into charming small towns — the perfect way to soak up the season’s beauty. https://highsouthadventures.com/Blue%20Ridge%20Ga.html

5. Experience the Georgia Mountain Fall Festival (Hiawassee, mid-October)

Live bluegrass music, mountain crafts, and carnival rides make this one of the region’s most beloved fall traditions at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds.

6. Hike to the Top of Brasstown Bald

At 4,784 feet, Georgia’s highest point offers panoramic views stretching into four states — a front-row seat to fall’s fiery colors.  https://highsouthadventures.com/Brasstown%20Bald.html

7. Step Back in Time at Dahlonega’s Gold Rush Days

Held the third weekend of October, this heritage festival fills the historic square with artisans, live music, and gold mining history — all surrounded by autumn’s golden glow.  https://highsouthadventures.com/Dahlonega.html

8. Sip Wine with a View

Northeast Georgia’s wine country shines in fall. Enjoy a tasting at Wolf Mountain, Three Sisters, or Yonah Mountain Vineyards, where the vineyards are framed by mountains dressed in color.   https://highsouthadventures.com/North%20Georgia%20Wine%20Tour.html

9. Go Apple Picking and Pumpkin Hunting

Celebrate the harvest at Hillcrest Orchards or Jaemor Farms. Pick your own apples, sip cider, and wander through pumpkin patches — the essence of fall fun.

10. Chase Waterfalls Wrapped in Color

Autumn adds a special magic to Anna Ruby Falls, Dukes Creek Falls, and Amicalola Falls. Each is surrounded by forests glowing in red, orange, and gold.

---Travel Tip: Mid to late October is typically peak color in the higher elevations — plan scenic drives early and pack layers for cool mountain mornings.

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