The holiday season arrives early here, and this year’s holiday events in Forsyth County stretch from the first weekend of November to mid-December. Giant trees are lit in the heart of Cumming, artisan markets fill the village greens, and neighborhood streets glow after dark. Here is where to go, what to expect and how to plan your visit.
2026 Holiday Dates at a Glance
- Nov. 7: Holiday Artists Market at Halcyon.
- Nov. 7: HOBNOB’s Elf Upstairs pop-up at Halcyon.
- Nov. 8: Glitter Star Fest at Cumming City Center.
- Nov. 14: Tree Lighting and Holiday Market at The Collection at Forsyth.
- Nov. 14–15: Christmas Festival at the Cumming Arts Center.
- Nov. 21: Winter/Holiday Market and Tree Lighting at Cumming City Center.
- Dec. 5: Halcyon Holiday Magic.
- Dec. 12: City of Cumming Christmas Parade.
- Dec. 13: Cumming Christmas Jingle Jog 5K.
- December: Ashebrooke Night of Lights (check the neighborhood’s Facebook page for 2026 dates).
Cumming City Center: A Giant Tree and a Winter Market
Cumming City Center is the county’s holiday headquarters. On Saturday, Nov. 21, the fifth annual Winter/Holiday Market brings more than 100 local vendors to 423 Canton Road from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free. Shoppers will find gifts and seasonal treasures, plus Santa for photos, live holiday music and a Kids Zone with crafts and games.
Plan to stay for the evening. The Cumming City Center Tree Lighting follows the market at 6 p.m. at the Lou Sobh Amphitheater. The giant tree is lit, The Big Beyond performs live, and local vendors serve treats and warm drinks…