5 Ways To Enjoy Helen Christmas Lights

Helen, Georgia, a small alpine-style town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The town's annual Christmas in Helen celebration features a plethora of festive activities, but the crowning jewel is undoubtedly the Helen Christmas lights. Here are five ways to enjoy this spectacular display.

The Helen Christmas lights extravaganza kicks off in late November and runs through December, attracting visitors from all over the country. As you stroll through the town's charming streets, you'll be mesmerized by the millions of twinkling lights that adorn the buildings, trees, and streets. The lights are carefully designed and placed to create a magical atmosphere, making Helen a must-visit destination during the holiday season.

For those who have never experienced the Helen Christmas lights, it's essential to plan ahead. Book your accommodations early, as the town's hotels and resorts tend to fill up quickly during this time. Consider visiting during the week or on a Sunday to avoid the crowds that flock to the town on weekends.

1. Take a Stroll through the Town

The best way to experience the Helen Christmas lights is to take a leisurely stroll through the town. Start at the town square, where you'll find a beautiful Christmas tree surrounded by festive decorations. From there, wander through the streets and take in the sights and sounds of the season. Be sure to check out the unique shops and restaurants, many of which offer special holiday deals and discounts.

As you walk, keep an eye out for the town's famous Christmas lights displays. You'll find them on the buildings, in the windows, and even on the streets. The lights are carefully designed to create a magical atmosphere, making you feel like you're walking through a winter wonderland.

Insider Tip:

For a truly unforgettable experience, take a stroll through the town after dark, when the lights are at their most breathtaking. Bring a cup of hot cocoa or coffee to keep you warm, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

2. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

For a more romantic and relaxing experience, consider taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the town. This will give you a unique perspective on the Helen Christmas lights, and you'll get to see the town's festive decorations from a new angle.

The carriage ride will take you through the town's most beautifully decorated areas, including the town square and the Chattahoochee River. As you ride, you'll be treated to the sounds of Christmas music and the soft clip-clop of the horses' hooves on the pavement.

Insider Tip:

Be sure to book your carriage ride in advance, as they tend to fill up quickly during the holiday season.

3. Visit the Anna Ruby Falls

Just outside of Helen is the beautiful Anna Ruby Falls, a pair of stunning waterfalls that are surrounded by lush forest. During the holiday season, the falls are adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a breathtakingly beautiful display.

Visit the falls at night, when the lights are at their most spectacular, and take a short hike to the top of the falls for a panoramic view of the surrounding forest. The lights are carefully designed to create a magical atmosphere, making this a truly unforgettable experience.

Insider Tip:

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight, as the hike to the top of the falls can be steep and uneven in some areas.

4. Enjoy the Festive Food and Drink

Helen is famous for its German-inspired cuisine, and during the holiday season, the town's restaurants and cafes offer a wide range of festive food and drink. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as glühwein (a hot, spiced wine) and lebkuchen (a type of German gingerbread).

You'll also find a wide range of traditional holiday treats, such as Christmas cookies and fudge, at the town's many bakeries and sweet shops. And don't forget to try some of the local craft beer, which is brewed on-site at the town's many breweries.

Insider Tip:

Be sure to check out the town's many holiday markets, where you can find unique gifts and try local foods and drinks.

5. Attend a Holiday Event

Throughout the holiday season, Helen hosts a wide range of festive events, from Christmas parades to holiday markets. Be sure to check out the town's events calendar to see what's happening during your visit.

Some of the most popular events include the annual Christmas parade, which takes place on the first Saturday in December, and the holiday market, which runs throughout the month. You'll also find a wide range of festive activities, such as visits with Santa and holiday craft workshops.

Insider Tip:

Be sure to book your accommodations early, as the town's hotels and resorts tend to fill up quickly during the holiday season.

As you can see, there are many ways to enjoy the Helen Christmas lights, from taking a stroll through the town to attending a holiday event. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a fun family vacation, Helen has something for everyone. So why not start planning your trip today?