The North Atlanta suburbs truly come alive during the holiday season, and each city—Alpharetta, Milton, Roswell, Cumming, and Johns Creek—adds its own magical glow. From charming historic districts draped in twinkling lights to beloved neighborhood displays and animated home shows that families return to year after year, these communities offer some of the most beautiful and memorable Christmas light experiences in Georgia. Whether you're planning a cozy night out, capturing festive content, or creating holiday traditions with loved ones, this curated list highlights the best places to soak in the season’s sparkle close to home.

ALPHARETTA

The holiday spirit in Alpharetta often includes house-by-house light shows and community light events.

A standout is PierceLights — a free walk-up/park-and-watch synchronized light show at 370 Oak Terrace.

The city center and neighborhood streets often get dressed up with classic Christmas décor, making it a festive setting for strolls, dinner and lights.

MILTON

In Milton, the historic downtown of Crabapple, GA hosts a cozy, walkable holiday light event — great for families and casual holiday outings.

Many homes in Milton-area neighborhoods go all out with tasteful holiday décor.

ROSWELL

Roswell offers charming festive settings — from decorated historic districts to homes glowing with holiday lights.

One historically notable light display is Santa’s Village — traditionally in Roswell, offering lighted displays, holiday scenes, and often train rides during the season (weather-permitting). Roswell works well if you want a mix: historic charm, family-friendly holiday décor, and easy access for holiday drives.

CUMMING

In Cumming and surrounding areas, the Ashebrooke Night of Lights is a community favorite — many homes participate, and the lights-on event is a tradition for locals. There are also several individual holiday-light homes/neighborhoods in Cumming known for their seasonal displays (classic lights, synchronized houses, etc.) — ideal for a “holiday lights drive-around.” Cumming is a good pick if you want to explore a big-community, inclusive holiday-light vibe rather than just one or two standout homes.

JOHNS CREEK

In Johns Creek, many neighborhoods get involved in holiday decorating — including the popular Hillbrooke Subdivision which has a tradition of seasonal light displays. The stretch around Emory Johns Creek Hospital / Hospital Parkway also gets festive lights, making for an easy hotspot if you want a drive-through without tracking down multiple addresses. Johns Creek is great for a mix of suburban light-show charm, accessible drive-through viewing for holiday content, especially if you’re showcasing family-friendly neighborhoods or community life.

ENJOY THEM ALL!

No matter which North Atlanta community you explore, the holiday season shines brightest when shared with the people you love. From dazzling neighborhood displays to charming town-center lights, Alpharetta, Milton, Roswell, Cumming, and Johns Creek each offer their own festive magic—making it easy to create lasting memories close to home. Bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and enjoy the twinkling beauty all around you. Wishing you a joyful, bright, and heart-warming holiday season!