โœจ FairyTale Days Meet Elfโ€™d Up Nights (Alpharetta, Explain Yourself.)


Alpharetta, Milton, Johns Creek & Roswell Events: Nov 20 โ€“ Nov 30

โ€‹

If it feels like Alpharetta flipped the โ€œholiday lightsโ€ switch overnightโ€ฆ youโ€™re not wrong. One minute we were debating sweater weather, the next minute half the city is skating at Avalon, roasting marshmallows downtown, or quietly panicking about being the designated host this year.
โ€‹

Are you hosting this year or being hosted? I'm hosting!!!!! ๐Ÿฆƒ
My bestie and her family are coming to town....yay! One kid finishes classes this week the other is coming home Saturday so yeah, I'm having a house full and excited about it.
โ€‹

This weekโ€™s lineup is stacked (noticed I expanded dates until the end of the month because next week's issue might be, sparse ๐Ÿ˜ฐ) โ€” tree lightings, music nights, pop-up bars, kid-friendly magic, and enough twinkle-lit events to keep your in-laws thoroughly entertained. Whether youโ€™re leaning all the way into the festivities or just trying to get out of the house without stepping foot in a grocery store, weโ€™ve got the goods. Letโ€™s see whatโ€™s happening on the A-Side.
โ€‹

Naray
Publisher,
A Side Of Town
โ€‹

Subscribe and share the A Side Of Town, hereโ€‹

โ€‹


* Together With Ruggableโ€‹
โ€‹

โ€‹

With hosting season officially here, your floors are about to see a lot โ€” guests, cooking marathons, muddy shoes, rogue cranberry sauceโ€ฆ the full holiday circus. Thatโ€™s why Iโ€™m thrilled to partner with Ruggable, the brand behind those gorgeous, machine-washable rugs that keep your home looking intentional (even when life gets messy).

Ruggableโ€™s low-pile, slip-resistant rugs are built for real kitchens and real families โ€” the spills, the paws, the dropped spatulas โ€” all of it. When the chaos hits (and it will), just toss the rug in the wash and it comes out looking fresh again. No scrubbing, no sighing, no โ€œdonโ€™t walk there!โ€ energy.

And the best part?
They make every style imaginable โ€” modern, neutral, farmhouse, bold patterns, runners, large sizes โ€” so whatever your vibe is, thereโ€™s something that fits your space and your sanity.

โœจ Save 15% on any Ruggable rug with this link.โ€‹
โ€‹

If your kitchen, guest bedroom or entryway needs a holiday glow-up, this is the easiest upgrade you can make.

Multi-Day Experiences (Anytime This Week)โ€‹
Avalon on Ice โ€“ Outdoor Holiday Skating โญ
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Avalon, 2200 Avalon Blvd, Alpharetta
โฐ Opens Sun Nov 23; daily hours vary
๐Ÿ’ฒ $18 adults; $14 kids 9 & under (includes skates)
โ€‹What: Avalon turns into our very own mini Rockefeller Center โ€” twinkle lights, holiday music, and at least one person doing way too much for a public rink. Perfect for impressing visiting relatives or reliving your childhood figure-skating fantasy.

FairyTale Village โ€“ Winter Experience at North Point Mall โญโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ North Point Mall, Alpharetta
โฐ Thuโ€“Sun hours vary; runs through Nov 30
๐Ÿ’ฒ $ Timed tickets
โ€‹What: Eight immersive, glitter-dusted rooms of holiday magic. Think: characters, crafts, photo ops, and enough whimsy to make you forget you're technically inside a mall.

Merry Grinchmas Pop-Up Bar โ€“ Mercantile Socialโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Downtown Alpharetta
โฐ Evenings throughout Nov 20โ€“30
๐Ÿ’ฒ $ Specialty cocktails; no cover
โ€‹What: Mercantile goes full Whoville โ€” neon green everything, over-the-top dรฉcor, and cocktails that taste like holiday spirit with a mischievous twist. Bring your most dramatic side-eye.

Miracle on Main St. โ€“ The Hamiltonโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ The Hamilton, Downtown Alpharetta
โฐ Select evenings 5 pmโ€“late
๐Ÿ’ฒ $ Holiday cocktails; no cover
โ€‹What: The Hamilton transforms into a tinsel-wrapped holiday fever dream โ€” nostalgic glassware, cozy lighting, and drinks so cute they practically beg for Instagram.

โญElfโ€™d Up โ€“ Up on the Roofโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Up on the Roof, Downtown Alpharetta
โฐ Evenings; hours vary
๐Ÿ’ฒ $ Food & cocktails; no cover
โ€‹What: Rooftop views + elf chaos = peak Alpharetta holiday fun. Ideal for groups who want festive energy without committing to a full โ€œmatching pajamasโ€ vibe.

Naturally Artistic โ€“ Chattahoochee Nature Centerโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Roswell
โฐ Daily through Nov 30
๐Ÿ’ฒ $ Regular CNC admission
โ€‹What: Artsy installations tucked between nature trails โ€” like a peaceful palette cleanser in the middle of holiday madness.

DIY Candle Bar Workshop โ€“ Roswellโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Roswell
โฐ Most days during shop hours
๐Ÿ’ฒ $ Priced per candle
โ€‹What: Pour-your-own candle magic. Choose a scent, pick a chic vessel, and walk out smelling like someone who absolutely has their life together.

Genesis Juried Art Exhibit โ€“ Roswell Fine Arts Allianceโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Roswell
โฐ Select days
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free to browse
โ€‹What: A quiet, gallery-style escape filled with local art โ€” and maybe that one piece you didn't know you needed above your mantle.

โ€œWhen in Roswellโ€ Photography Exhibitโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Roswell City Hall
โฐ Public hours
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free
โ€‹What: Roswell through the eyes of the people who live here โ€” charming, quirky, and very โ€œsmall town with big heart.โ€

Roswell Georgia Scavenger Hunt (Self-Guided)โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Historic Roswell
โฐ Anytime
๐Ÿ’ฒ $ Per team
โ€‹What: App-guided challenges around Roswellโ€™s most photogenic corners. Great for kids, in-laws, or competitive couples.

โ€‹
โ€‹
THURSDAY Nov 20
โ€‹
๐Ÿท Bad Ass Redsโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Fermented University
โฐ Thu, Nov 20 | 6 PM
๐Ÿ’ต $50 tickets
What: Big, bold, unapologetic reds that punch back. Youโ€™ll leave knowing which bottle pairs best with confidence.
โ€‹Women Entrepreneur Networking Event โ€“ Tech Alpharetta โญโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Tech Alpharetta
โฐ Thu Nov 20, 6โ€“9 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ $ Registration required
โ€‹What: A powerhouse room full of women founders, leaders, and sideโ€‘hustlers swapping ideas, raising each other up, and pretending we all remembered our business cards.Jeopardy Bar League โ€“ Fetch Parkโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Fetch Park, Alpharetta
โฐThur Nov 20, 7โ€“9 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free to play
โ€‹What: Trivia night meets dog park. Fierce competition for humans, social hour for pups. A perfect Thursday.
โ€‹
โ€‹FRIDAY Nov 21
โ€‹
Outta the Box Gallery Exhibit โ€“ Alpharetta Arts Centerโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Alpharetta Arts Center, 238 Canton St
โฐ Nov 21, 8 amโ€“5 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free
โ€‹What: A daytime wander through creative, quirky, โ€œwait, I kind of want that in my houseโ€ art pieces. Perfect for a quiet pre-chaos outing before the eveningโ€™s tree lighting frenzy begins.Arts Aglow: Interactive Light Displayโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Alpharetta Arts Center, 238 Canton St
โฐ Nov 21, 8 amโ€“5 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free
โ€‹What: Step inside glowing, hands-on light installations that make everyone look mysteriously photogenic. Great for kids, adults, or anyone who loves things that light up and feel a little magical.
โ€‹
โ€‹

SATURDAY, Nov 22
โ€‹
Season of Celebration โ€“ Alpharetta Tree Lighting โญโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Downtown Alpharetta
โฐ Nov 22, 5โ€“8 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free
โ€‹What: Alpharettaโ€™s iconic 50โ€‘foot tree, faux snow, performers, marshmallow roasting, and holiday energy turned all the way up.โ€‹
โ€‹
โ€‹
โ€‹SUNDAY , Nov 23โ€‹
โ€‹The Lighting of Avalon โญโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Avalon
โฐ Nov 23, 2โ€“7:30 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free; skating extra
โ€‹What: Avalonโ€™s biggest night โ€” Santaโ€™s arrival, live bands, skating, and a crowd that fully commits to the moment.

โ€‹

โ€‹
โ€‹
THURSDAY , Nov 27

๐Ÿฆƒ Alpharetta Turkey Trot
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Downtown Alpharetta
๐Ÿ•’ Thu Nov 27 ยท 8 AM
๐Ÿ’ฒ $35 Registration
What: Burn off the pies before you eat them. The annual trot returns โ€” festive, funny, and fueled by cold-morning adrenaline.
โ€‹SATURDAY , Nov 29

โญ๏ธ๐Ÿ›๏ธ Small Business Saturday Crawl
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Downtown Alpharetta, Milton, and Roswell
๐Ÿ•’ Sat Nov 29 ยท All Day
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free Event
What: Your friendly reminder that Target doesnโ€™t remember your dogโ€™s name โ€” but local shops do.

โ€‹
โญ๏ธSanta Tuck-Inโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Hotel at Avalon
๐Ÿ’ต Reserved room required
โ€‹ What: Santa in slippers reading โ€™Twas the Night Before Christmas? Instant childhood core memory unlocked.

โ€‹
โ€‹EVENTS ON THE HORIZON ( May want to mark your calendar!!):
Breakfast with Santa โ€“ Halcyon
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Halcyon
โฐ Sat Dec 6 & Sun Dec 7
๐Ÿ’ฒ $$ Ticketed
โ€‹What: A cozy, cameraโ€‘ready breakfast with the big man himself.
โ€‹

Have an event you would like to spread the word about? Click ๐Ÿ‘‰ here to submit your event.
โ€‹

โญ๏ธ = Editor's Picks
โ€‹

Before the turkey drama begins, letโ€™s tackle the most controversial dish on the tableโ€ฆ

โ€‹

Gobble Gobble.

โ€‹

THURSDAY Nov 20
โ€‹
Sinatra Night with Ray Allen
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Taste The Flavor Brunch Bar, 5325 Windward Parkway, Alpharetta
โฐ Thu, Nov 20 | 7โ€“10 PM
๐Ÿ’ต Ticketed event
What: Alpharettaโ€™s getting its swagger back โ€” crooner vibes, cocktails, and a night that practically begs for a martini and a twirl.
โ€‹Mike Rainey โ€“ Stand-Up at Helium Comedy Clubโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Helium Comedy Club, Alpharetta
โฐ 7:30โ€“9:30 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ $ Ticketed show
โ€‹What: Adult-leaning comedy that hits just right before holiday hosting officially kicks in.
โ€‹โ€‹
โ€‹
FRIDAY Nov 21โ€‹
โ€‹Behind the Music Live โ€“ Autrey Mill โญโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Johns Creek
โฐ Nov 21, 7:30โ€“9:30 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free; donations appreciated
โ€‹What: Intimate, storyteller-style performances under the trees. Bring a blanket and someone who loves a good acoustic moment.
โ€‹
โ€‹SUNDAY Nov 23โ€‹
โญ๏ธA Little Peace of the Holidays w/ Karla Harris
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Roswell Cultural Arts Center
โฐ Sun, Nov 23 | 4 PM
๐Ÿ’ต Tickets at roswell365.com
What: Silky jazz, warm lights, and holiday nostalgia โ€” Karla Harris brings the kind of peace you actually want this season.
โ€‹โ€‹
WEDNSDAY Nov 26
โ€‹
โ€‹Laughsgiving Comedy Showโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Cafรฉ Efendi
โฐ Wed, Nov 26
๐Ÿ’ต Tickets required
What: Forget the turkey โ€” bring the giggles. A pre-holiday lineup serving punchlines, not pumpkin pie.
โ€‹

Queen of Hearts Antiques & Interiors
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Alpharetta Hwy, Alpharetta
โฐ Hours vary; check website or call for current schedule
๐Ÿ’ฒ Browsing + boutique finds
โ€‹What: Tucked away off the main drag, this charming antique shop mixes vintage furniture, quirky dรฉcor pieces, and one-of-a-kind home accents that you wonโ€™t dig up at the big box stores. Perfect for a stroll-through when you want to add personality to your space โ€” not just more stuff.


๐Ÿ“ธ Guess the Photo

This is a photo of an object around town, tightly zoomed in, can you guess what it is?
๐Ÿ‘‰ Do you know what it is?

Answer revealed next week in the Fadeout!!

โ€‹

โ€‹

โ€‹
โ€‹

THURSDAY, Nov 20โ€‹
โ€‹Movie Night at Halcyon โ€‹
โ€‹The Nightmare Before Christmasโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Halcyon
โฐ Thu Nov 20, 6 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free
โ€‹What: Outdoor movie night featuring the Tim Burton classic. Bring blankets, snacks, and your inner goth child.
โ€‹FRIDAY, Nov 21
โ€‹
Christmas Tree Lightingโ€‹
โญ๏ธ๐Ÿ“ The Hamilton, Alpharetta
โฐ Fri, Nov 21 | 5:30 PM
๐Ÿ’ต Free (Reservations recommended)
โ€‹ What: The glow-up of the year โ€” live music, cocoa, and twinkle lights that make you forget how many tangled strands you left at home.โ€‹
โ€‹
โญ๏ธ โ›ธ๏ธ Avalon on Ice Opening Weekend
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ The Plaza at Avalon, Alpharetta
๐Ÿ•’ Fri Nov 21 ยท 5โ€“10 PM
๐Ÿ’ฒ $18 Adults / $14 Kids (includes skates)
What: The ice rink is back. Grab a cider, lace up, and hope no oneโ€™s filming your first lap.

๐ŸŽ„ Milton Tree Lighting
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Milton City Hall Greenspace
๐Ÿ•’ Fri Nov 21 ยท 6โ€“8 PM
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free Event
What: The city flips the switch on holiday mode โ€” carols, cocoa, and a crowd thatโ€™s 60% people youโ€™ll wave to at Publix tomorrow.
โ€‹FairyTale Village โ€“ Evening Sessionโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ North Point Mall
โฐ Nov 21, 12โ€“8 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ $ Tickets
โ€‹What: A nighttime stroll through a winter storybook โ€” id
โ€‹Tuck-Ins with Santa โ€“ The Hotel at Avalon

๐Ÿ“ The Hotel at Avalon, 9000 Avalon Blvd
โฐ Fri Nov 21, 7โ€“10 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ $$ Ticketed (hotel guest experience; limited public spots)
โ€‹What: Santa literally comes to your hotel room for a bedside story and holiday tuck-in. Peak cozy-season energy. Even if youโ€™re not staying overnight, itโ€™s fun to wander through the lobby and soak up the festive buzz.

Friday Night Lights โ€“ All-You-Can-Play at Dave & Busterโ€™s

๐Ÿ“ Dave & Busterโ€™s Alpharetta, 6500 North Point Pkwy
โฐ Fri Nov 21, 9 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ $$ All-you-can-play passes available
โ€‹What: The grown-up version of recess. Unlimited games, neon lights, and the joyful realization that youโ€™re really good at skee-ball when the stakes are nonexistent.
โ€‹
โ€‹SATURDAY, Nov 22
โ€‹
๐ŸŽ… Run Santa Run 5K
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Alpharetta City Center
๐Ÿ•’ Sat Nov 22 ยท 8 AM
๐Ÿ’ฒ $40 Registration
What: Yes, people actually run in Santa suits โ€” and yes, itโ€™s hilarious. Bring your sense of humor (and maybe a camera).

๐ŸŽจ Holiday Market at Halcyon
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Halcyon Green, Alpharetta
๐Ÿ•’ Sat Nov 22 ยท 10 AMโ€“5 PM
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free Event
What: Local artisans, handmade gifts, live music โ€” think of it as Etsy, but you can taste-test the candles.

โ€‹
โ€‹SUNDAY, Nov 23

๐ŸŽ Christmas Village at North Point
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ North Point Mall, Alpharetta
๐Ÿ•’ Sun Nov 23 ยท 12โ€“6 PM
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free Event
What: Santa selfies, pop-up shops, hot cocoa โ€” the works. Great for kids, better for parents who love one-stop seasonal chaos.
โ€‹โ€‹
๐ŸŽ„ Lighting of Avalon
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Avalon Boulevard, Alpharetta
๐Ÿ•’ Sun Nov 23 ยท 2pm- 7:30 PM
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free Event
What: The official start of sparkle season. Think: fireworks, Santaโ€™s arrival, and all the cozy chaos you secretly love.
โ€‹TUESDAY, Nov 25โ€‹
โ€‹Groovinโ€™ with Grandfriends โ€“ Arbor Terraceโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Crabapple/Roswell
โฐ Nov 25, 10:30โ€“11:30 am
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free
โ€‹What: Seniors + little ones + music = the cutest hour youโ€™ll see all week.Mini Melodies โ€“ GiGiโ€™s Playhouseโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Alpharetta
โฐ Nov 25, 11 amโ€“12 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free
โ€‹What: A joyful music session for young kids with Down Syndrome and their families.
โ€‹Barn Book Sale โ€“ Friends of the Milton Libraryโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Milton
โฐ Nov 25, 1โ€“5:30 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ Most items $0.50โ€“$3
โ€‹What: A treasure hunt for readers โ€” books, puzzles, movies, and nostalgia.
โ€‹
Click ๐Ÿ‘‰ here to submit your event.

โ€‹

โ€‹
โ€‹โ€‹
๐ŸŽค Live at Loyal Q: Local Jam Session
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Loyal Q & Brew, Alpharetta
๐Ÿ•’ Sat Nov 22 ยท 8 PM
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free Event
What: Craft beer, pulled pork, and a lineup of local musicians who always sound better live than online.

โ€‹
โ€‹Malvi Mallow Pop-Upโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Avalon
โฐ Sat, Nov 23 | Open Daily
๐Ÿ’ต Varies
โ€‹ What: Alpharettaโ€™s sweetest little secret โ€” handmade marshmallows that will ruin you for store-bought forever.
โ€‹
โ€‹๐ŸŽธ Sunday Sounds: The Bourbon Brothers
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Gate City Brewing, Roswell
๐Ÿ•’ Sun Nov 23 ยท 3โ€“6 PM
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free Event
What: A beer-and-blues combo that hits just right on a lazy Sunday.
โ€‹Open Mic Night โ€“ The Stout Brothersโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Roswell
โฐ Monday Nov 24, Evening
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free entry
โ€‹What: Casual, cozy, and full of surprise local talent.
โ€‹

โญ๏ธChocolate & Wine Pairing
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Fermented Wine Boutique
โฐ Tue, Nov 25 | 6 PM
๐Ÿ’ต $50
What: Because adulting means finally learning which cabernet goes best with caramel. (Hint: all of them.)
โ€‹
โ€‹

โ€‹

โ€‹
โ€‹
โ€‹๐ŸŽค Kings of Swing Holiday Show
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Roswell Cultural Arts Center
๐Ÿ•’ Fri Nov 21 ยท 7:30 PM
๐Ÿ’ฒ Tickets required
What: Big band, bigger energy. A brass-filled throwback that makes โ€œfestiveโ€ feel like a verb.

โ€‹
โ€‹Roswell Farmers Market โ€“ Final Market Day โญโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Behind Roswell City Hall
โฐ Nov 22, 8 amโ€“12 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free entry
โ€‹What: The last chance to snag local produce, flowers, breads, and โ€œI swear this will be great for Thanksgivingโ€ finds.

โ€‹

Historic Homes Open House โ€“ Autrey Millโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Johns Creek
โฐ Nov 22, 10 amโ€“2 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free
โ€‹What: Holidayโ€‘decorated historic homes with docents, nostalgia, and a surprise Santa moment.

๐ŸŽ„ Roswell Tree Lighting
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Roswell Town Square
๐Ÿ•’ Sat Nov 22 ยท 5โ€“7 PM
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free Event
โ€‹Karla Harris Holiday Jazz Concertโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Roswell Cultural Arts Center
โฐ Sun Nov 23, 4โ€“5 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ $$ Ticketed
โ€‹What: Swingy, soulful holiday jazz that feels like warm lighting and a perfectly mixed Old Fashioned.
What: Choirs, cookies, and that dramatic countdown moment everyone loves. Santa might โ€œaccidentallyโ€ show up early.
โ€‹๐ŸŽถ Holiday Pops with the Roswell Symphony
โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Roswell Cultural Arts Center
๐Ÿ•’ Sat Nov 29 ยท 7:30 PM
๐Ÿ’ฒ Tickets required
What: Big voices, classic carols, and that moment when the brass section makes you tear up a little.โ€‹
โ€‹
โญ๏ธVictor Rolf. Fashion Statements.
๐Ÿ“High Museum of Art
โ€‹ ๐Ÿ•’ Oct 10 - Feb 8
โ€‹ ๐Ÿ’ฒ Ticketedโ€‹
โ€‹What: Couture gets conceptual. The Dutch duoโ€™s larger-than-life gowns, irony, and edge prove fashion can be both fabric and philosophy. Prepare to be floored โ€” and inspired to overdress at brunch.
โ€‹Christkindlmarket Roswellโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Roswell Town Square (TBA)
โฐ Late Novโ€“Dec
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free entry
โ€‹What: Mulled wine, German treats, handmade gifts โ€” the coziest little European market in the suburbs.

โ€‹

๐ŸŽ„GardenGarden Nights, Holiday Lights โ€“ Atlanta Botanical Gardenโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Atlanta
โฐ Evenings late Novโ€“Dec
๐Ÿ’ฒ $$โ€“$$$ Ticketed
โ€‹What: Millions of lights, glowing sculptures, and the Canopy Walk shining like a holiday runway. Worth the drive every single year.

Historic Homes Open House โ€“ Autrey Mill (Real Estate Spotlight Edition)โ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Johns Creek
โฐ Nov 22, 10 amโ€“2 pm
๐Ÿ’ฒ Free
โ€‹What: Hereโ€™s a fun twist for our real-estate-loving readers: Autrey Millโ€™s Historic Homes Open House gives you a rare peek into the architectural DNA of Johns Creek. These restored gems โ€” from the Summerour House to the 19th-century tenant cabin โ€” are like flipping through a living Zillow archive, except with docents, holiday dรฉcor, and an occasional Santa sighting.

If you love a good porch, original woodwork, or imagining how people lived before quartz counters and open-concept everything, this is your kind of Saturday stroll. A perfect reminder that todayโ€™s โ€œmodern farmhouseโ€ has nothing on the real thing.

โ€‹
โ€‹

โ€‹

Can you solve this weekโ€™s scramble?
โ€‹

Scramble:โ€‹
S O E W R N L F A K

Hint:โ€‹
Youโ€™ll spot these drifting around town before the real ones ever show up.

Blanks:โ€‹
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (10)
Answer revealed at the bottom see The Fadeout section! ๐Ÿ‘‡

โ€‹

Set the Tone at the Threshold

If youโ€™re hosting this Thanksgiving, your entryway is doing a lot more heavy lifting than you think. Itโ€™s the first hello, the first impression, and the first place guests dropโ€ฆ well, everything. A quick foyer refresh can instantly set the tone: think a washable runner (because pumpkin-spice anything will spill), a small console vignette with a warm lamp glow, and a catch-all bowl that quietly whispers โ€œIโ€™ve thought of everything.โ€ Add in a seasonal stem or two, swap out that tired doormat, and suddenly your home feels intentional before guests even make it to the kitchen. Consider this your five-minute power move for a welcoming, pulled-together holiday vibe.
โ€‹

Why This Works

Because the entryway is your homeโ€™s โ€œfirst impression.โ€ A little warm lighting, natural texture, and smart storage instantly make your space feel intentional โ€” even if everything beyond it isnโ€™t quite guest-ready yet.

Shop the Entryway Edit:

โ€‹
๐Ÿ‘‹ Here for Thanksgiving?โ€‹
Excellent timing โ€” Alpharetta is currently operating at peak sparkle. Between the tree lightings, pop-up bars, markets, and things that look suspiciously like Hallmark movie sets, thereโ€™s plenty to do when you need a breather from your relatives. Stick with us and youโ€™ll know exactly where to wander, sip, skate, and politely avoid doing dishes.

โ€‹

โ€‹Subscribe Hereโ€‹

North Fulton Community Charities โ€” Holiday Assistance Programโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Roswell & Alpharetta NFCC locations
โ€‹What: NFCC is collecting new toys, winter coats, gift cards, and holiday meal items for families in need. One of the most impactful ways to support neighbors right here in North Fulton.

The Drake House โ€” Holiday Wish List for Moms & Kidsโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Roswell
โ€‹What: Donate toys, teen gifts, pajamas, and grocery gift cards to help single moms create a magical holiday morning for their children at The Drake House Holiday House.

Toys for Tots โ€” Alpharetta Fire Stationsโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ All Alpharetta fire stations (official drop sites)
โ€‹What: Drop off new, unwrapped toys that stay local, supporting families in Alpharetta and North Fulton.

โ€‹โ€‹
โ€‹
โ€‹

Click ๐Ÿ‘‰ here to submit your event.

Job postings for the creative economy (by which I mean totally made up ๐Ÿ˜‰) But A Side Of Town would love to post your real jobs, gig, service, or help wanted ads.
โ€‹

๐ŸŽจ Calling All Creatives:Alpharetta Arts Center needs volunteers for upcoming winter workshops. No degree required, just enthusiasm and maybe a beret.

๐Ÿ• Help Wanted: Waggy Walks Pet Care is adding part-time dog-walkers for the holiday travel season. Must love pups, puddles, and being told youโ€™re the best human ever.
๐Ÿ’‡ Hiring:Drybar Alpharetta is looking for stylists who can tame holiday-party hair and hold gossip securely under a blow-dryer.
๐Ÿง‘๐Ÿฝโ€๐ŸŽ„ Seasonal Gig:Avalon Events Crew needs extra hands for Santa photo ops and light display setup. Ideal candidates can lift 50 lbs and maintain holiday cheer under pressure (and peppermint-scented fog).

โ€‹
โ€‹Got a real-life job you need seasonal help with? Let's get it posted next week?
Click ๐Ÿ‘‰ here to submit your posting

โ€‹

โ€‹

Weekend Getaway- Greenville, SC โ€” Holiday Lights + Foodie Weekend Energyโ€‹
๐Ÿ“ Downtown Greenville, SC
โฐ Ideal for a 1โ€“2 night getaway (2 hr 30 min drive)
๐Ÿ’ฒ $$ Dining + optional skating/activities
โ€‹
โ€‹What: If youโ€™re craving a getaway that feels festive but not chaotic, Greenville is your sweet spot. Main Street glows with early holiday lights, โ€œIce on Mainโ€ opens for crisp-weather skating, and Falls Park delivers that perfect scenic stroll without needing a hiking kit. Add their seriously good restaurant scene, boutique shopping for early gifts, and a walkable downtown youโ€™ll want to wander for hours. The ideal pre-Thanksgiving reset โ€” close enough for one night, fun enough for two.
โ€‹

Where to Stay:โ€‹
โ€‹The Westin Poinsett โ€” Classic, elegant, and right on Main Street. The easiest way to stay in the center of the holiday glow.
โ€‹Grand Bohemian Lodge โ€” A luxury lodge overlooking Falls Park and the Liberty Bridge. Stone fireplaces, dramatic architecture, and perfect for a cozy, upscale escape.

Caption for Illustration:โ€‹
Greenvilleโ€™s Main Street glowing under early holiday lights โ€” the perfect backdrop for a festive weekend wander.
โ€‹
โ€‹

โ€‹

๐Ÿ”ฅ Roast: To the driver who tried to parallel park on Canton Street during the tree-lighting preview โ€” bold move, wrong dimension.

๐ŸŒŸ Boast: To the Alpharetta High marching band โ€” because nothing says โ€œholidaysโ€ like Jingle Bells with a drumline.

๐Ÿท Toast: To whoever invented the Merry Grinchmas Martini โ€” the city of Alpharetta owes you a key to downtown.
โ€‹
โ€‹

๐Ÿ”ฅ Roast ๐Ÿ† Boast ๐Ÿฅ‚ Toast

Keep it kind + local. We may edit for clarity/length.

๐Ÿ‚ For Sale: One decorative hay bale, slightly used, now housing a family of chipmunks. Free to a good porch.

๐Ÿ•ฏ๏ธ Wanted: Someone who can relight my fall candle without judgment for how fast I burned through the first one.

๐Ÿฅง Trade: One homemade pie crust for a functioning rolling pin. (Mine retired mid-Thanksgiving prep.)

๐Ÿฟ๏ธ Lost: My willpower at Kilwins. If found, please return before I buy another caramel apple.

โ€‹
Editorโ€™s Note:
Have a real ad? Weโ€™ll happily mix it in with the fake ones next week โ€” bonus points if itโ€™s just as weird.
โ€‹
โ€‹ Click ๐Ÿ‘‰ here to submit your item / opportunity.

โ€‹

Word Puzzle Answer: Snowflake
โ€‹

Last Week's Guess the Photo Answer: Avian

โ€‹

Avian

2011
Forged iron and bronze

Artist-Michael Dillon

Located inside the Alpharetta Arts Center
โ€‹

Michael Dillon has had a deep interest flying or the feeling of flight in his work. The ability to transcend oneโ€™s physical abilities and to see the limitless possibilities has become a hallmark theme of his work.
โ€‹


Some links in this newsletter may be affiliate links, which means A-Side of Town could earn a small commission if you choose to purchaseโ€”at absolutely no extra cost to you. We only recommend things we genuinely love and think you will too.

โ€‹
๐Ÿ’Œ Share the Love

If you enjoyed this edition of the A Side Of Town, share it with a friend, your neighbor, or that cousin who's always "thinking about moving down here."
โ€‹
โ€‹
It cost nothing to click the "share" button below, tell a friend, or hit reply and tell us what you think-the good, the bad, or the "y'all have a typo."
โ€‹
Every click, comment, and forward helps keep this line-dance moving. We appreciate the heck out of you so much. Slide to the right.....1,2,3.....
โ€‹
Happy Thanksgiving, neighbors. May your turkey be tender and your parking be easy.

โ€‹
โ€‹
โ€‹

No longer want to receive A Side OF Town? Unsubscribe

Share with friends, get cool stuff!

Have friends who'd love our newsletter too? Give them your unique referral link (below) and get an awesome reward when they subscribe.

[RH_REFLINK GOES HERE]

Facebook Whatsapp Email

PS: You have referred [RH_TOTREF GOES HERE] people so far

See how many referrals you have

Windward Plaza, Suite F460, Alpharetta, GA 30009
Advertise with the A Side of Townโ€‹

โ€‹

โ€‹

" If you live in Alpharetta, this is a MUST read. ๐ŸŽฏ ๐Ÿ” ๐ŸŽญ ๐ŸŒณ ๐Ÿšฒ"!

*NEW FREE LOCAL NEWSLETTER* covering community happenings, events, new business openings, job postings, new restuarants you didn't know existed, contractors you can hire, weekend getaways, and more-- all delivered straight to your email. New editions Thursday at 7am. ๐Ÿ’Œ Subscribe for free! โฌ‡๏ธ

Read more from " If you live in Alpharetta, this is a MUST read. ๐ŸŽฏ ๐Ÿ” ๐ŸŽญ ๐ŸŒณ ๐Ÿšฒ"!
Transitional living room with gray sectional and lantern floor lamp

Alpharetta, Milton, Johns Creek & Roswell Events: Jan 15 โ€“ Jan 21 Welcome back, January always feels a littleโ€ฆ quiet. The holidays are packed away, the inbox is full again, and suddenly weโ€™re all staring at the calendar like, okay, now what?This weekโ€™s A Side is here to ease you back in โ€” low-lift plans, hidden gems, and just enough reasons to leave the house without overcommitting. No pressure. Just good stuff, right where you are. NarayPublisher, A Side Of Town Subscribe and share the A...

modern fireplace mantle with cozy winter eucalyptus leaves white lanterns with candles, and a wood bowl with white yarn.

Alpharetta, Milton, Johns Creek & Roswell Events: Jan 08 โ€“ Jan 14 Welcome back, Come inside, it's nice and cozy in here. I hope you like what I've done with the place. I have edited and made some changes you may notice. This experiment is ever evolving and I appreciate all of you being here, sending suggestions, sharing and supporting. You have any goals for yourself this year? Besides growing this passion project I'm always struggling to move my body more. I'm thinking about trying out...

Alphie, Alpharetta's digital robot mascot is baking holiday cookies illustration line drawing.

Alpharetta, Milton, Johns Creek & Roswell Events: Dec 18 โ€“ Dec 31 ๐Ÿ‘‰ New here? Get the weekly A Side of Town email (plus the free GA-400 Escape Plan) at asideoftown.com so you never miss the good stuff.If this week feels a littleโ€ฆ untethered, youโ€™re not alone. The stretch between Christmas and New Yearโ€™s has a way of bending time โ€” routines disappear, calendars blur, and suddenly itโ€™s Tuesday but also somehow Saturday. Thatโ€™s part of the charm. This issue leans into that energy. Whether youโ€™re...