❄️ Snow Day, Santa Sightings & Sounds of the Season


Alpharetta, Milton, Johns Creek & Roswell Events: Dec 11 – Dec 18

Burrrrrr 🥶 December has been cold, right?! It's also in full sprint and so are we. Santa has at least six appearances this week, holiday concerts are multiplying like elves, and even the coffee shops are showing up in full dessert-mode. So take a deep breath, stretch your social muscles, and let’s see how much festive fun we can cram into seven days without losing a mitten.


Naray
Publisher,
A Side Of Town

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Editor's Picks


⭐️ Santa & Cider at Southern Post
📍 Roswell
⏰ Thu Dec 11, 5–8pm
💲 Free
What: Santa Bob, warm cider, carols, and Roswell’s newest live-work-play district twinkling for the holidays. A soft-launch to your weekend that hits all the cozy notes.

⭐️ Atlanta Dance Theatre – The Nutcracker
📍 Roswell Cultural Arts Center
⏰ Fri Dec 12, 7pm (plus Sat/Sun shows)
💲 From ~$23.50
What: A polished, hometown holiday tradition with full costumes, a big cast, and that unmistakable “Okay, now it’s finally December” feeling. A perfect pick for families, date night, or anyone chasing the warm-and-glowy vibes.

⭐️ Holly Jolly Market – You42 Studios
📍 Roswell
⏰ Sat Dec 13, 10am–2pm
💲 Free
What: A festive maker market with local vendors, Santa + Grinch photo ops, and very strong “last-minute but make it local” holiday shopping energy. Bring a tote — you’ll fill it.

⭐️ Metropolitan Ballet Theatre –
The Nutcracker at Innovation Academy
📍 Downtown Alpharetta
⏰ Sun Dec 14, 2pm & 6pm
💲 Ticketed
What: Alpharetta’s own Nutcracker in a modern, intimate venue right off Milton Ave. A beloved 24-year tradition that reliably sells out because it’s just that good.


⭐️ Jingle Jog at The Hotel at Avalon

📍 Avalon, Alpharetta
⏰ Sun Dec 14, time varies
💲 Registration / brunch fee
What: A festive little trot with Santa leading the way, followed by a holiday brunch on the Boulevard. Zero pressure, maximum merriment. The kind of event where everybody looks adorable in the photos afterward.


⭐️ Menorah Lighting at Avalon

📍 Avalon (Palmer Plaza), Alpharetta
⏰ Sun Dec 14, evening
💲 Free
What: A beautiful, glowing community celebration with music, blessings, and a menorah you can see from half a block away. Always uplifting, always packed, always worth it.


⭐️ Vince Guaraldi’s
A Charlie Brown Christmas – The Velvet Note
📍 Alpharetta
⏰ Sun Dec 14, 6pm & 8pm
💲 $45
What: The iconic Peanuts soundtrack performed live in an intimate jazz club. It’s nostalgic, it’s classy, and it’s practically engineered for holiday serotonin.


⭐️ Cross of Life’s Christmas Festival & Market

📍 Roswell
⏰ Sun Dec 14, 4–7pm (pre-fun starts 3pm)
💲 Free
What: Bounce houses, petting zoo, yard games, cocoa, s’mores, vendors — basically a mini Christmas carnival hiding right on Hembree Rd. It’s wholesome chaos in the best way.


⭐ Motown Christmas — Roswell Cultural Arts Center (Dec 19)
📍 Roswell Cultural Arts Center
⏰ Fri Dec 19 7pm
💲 $31
What: Smooth, soulful, nostalgic holiday magic. This one sells out for a reason.


THURSDAY Dec 11
Santa & Cider at Southern Post
📍 1035 Alpharetta St, Roswell
⏰ Thu Dec 11, 5–8pm
💲 Free
What: Santa Bob, warm cider, carols, and small-town festive charm at Roswell’s buzzy new development. Great light-hearted opener to the weekend.

FRIDAY Dec 12
Atlanta Dance Theatre – The Nutcracker
📍 Roswell Cultural Arts Center
⏰ Fri Dec 12, 7pm + Sat/Sun shows
💲 From ~$23.50
What: A polished, beloved local ballet tradition—big costumes, classic score, and a multigenerational audience that shows up dressed festive.

SATURDAY Dec 13

❄️ Snow Day at Alpharetta City Center

📍 Alpharetta City Center
⏰ December 13
🎟️ Free
What: A full-on snowy play day in the middle of downtown — sledding lane, snow play zone, photo ops, and festive fun for kids. One of the most magical Alpharetta traditions and shockingly not widely advertised.

🎁 Stuff a Mercedes! — Holiday Toy Drive
📍 The Village Green at Halcyon
⏰ December 13, 2025
🎟️ Bring a new toy to donate
What: RBM of Alpharetta is stuffing a Mercedes-Benz with toys for The Place Forsyth's Holiday House. Bring new toys and help create a little holiday joy for local families.

SUNDAY Dec 14

Metropolitan Ballet Theatre – The Nutcracker at Innovation Academy
📍 125 Milton Ave, Alpharetta
⏰ Sun Dec 14, 2pm & 6pm
💲 Ticketed
What: Downtown Alpharetta’s hometown Nutcracker in its 24th year—now in a sleek new venue. A strong “holiday culture moment” for A-Side readers.


Vince Guaraldi’s
A Charlie Brown Christmas – The Velvet Note
📍 Alpharetta
⏰ Sun Dec 14, 6pm & 8pm
💲 $45
What: An all-star jazz band performs the Peanuts soundtrack live. Pure nostalgia hit, intimate room, the definition of a December highlight.


Menorah Lighting at Avalon

📍 Avalon, Alpharetta
⏰ Sun Dec 14, evening
💲 Free
What: A glowing public Chanukah celebration in the heart of Avalon—music, blessings, and community joy.


Cross of Life’s Christmas Festival & Market

📍 Roswell
⏰ Sun Dec 14, 4–7pm (fun starts at 3pm)
💲 Free
What: Bounce houses, petting zoo, cocoa, s’mores, service-project stations, and vendors—basically a “holiday block party” without leaving Hembree Rd.

THURSDAY Dec 18
Southern Post: Santa & His Sleigh Holiday Market
📍 Roswell
⏰ Thu Dec 18, 5–8pm
💲 Free
What: A final-week shopping + photo-op market with Santa’s sleigh. Excellent for readers needing last-minute but still local gifts.

ONGOING / SEASONAL EVENTS
Lights on the Loop – Holiday Light Village

📍 Alpha Loop
⏰ Nightly, 5–11 PM
What: A walk-through winter wonderland with twinkling tunnels, glowing trees, and the perfect backdrop for your holiday card photo… even if you take it on December 23.

Avalon on Ice – Outdoor Holiday Skating

📍 Avalon, 2200 Avalon Blvd, Alpharetta
💲 $18 adults; $14 kids 9 & under (includes skates)
What: Avalon turns into our very own mini Rockefeller Center — 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 – Winter Experience at North Point Mall
📍 North Point Mall, Alpharetta
⏰ Thu–Sun hours vary; runs through Dec 30
💲 $ Timed tickets
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.

Miracle on Main St. – The Hamilton
📍 The Hamilton, Downtown Alpharetta
⏰ Select evenings 5 pm–late
💲 $ Holiday cocktails; no cover
What: The Hamilton transforms into a tinsel-wrapped holiday fever dream — nostalgic glassware, cozy lighting, and drinks so cute they practically beg for Instagram.

⭐Elf’d Up – Up on the Roof
📍 Up on the Roof, Downtown Alpharetta
⏰ Evenings; hours vary
💲 $ Food & cocktails; no cover
What: Rooftop views + elf chaos = peak Alpharetta holiday fun. Ideal for groups who want festive energy without committing to a full “matching pajamas” vibe.

💥 Sell-out Sidebar

Tickets to grab now before they’re gone.

  • ❄️ Motown Christmas – LIVE Holiday Concert(Fri Dec 19)
    What: A powerhouse night of soulful Christmas hits and Motown classics. Big vocals, big band, big holiday energy. This one always sells out — grab seats while you can.
  • ❄️ Holly & Harmony Cabaret(Dec 19–21)
    What: A cozy, intimate holiday cabaret with gorgeous vocals, festive arrangements, and that warm “classic holiday special” vibe. A perfect dress-up date night. Limited run = limited seats.
  • ❄️ Central City Tavern – Hollywood New Year’s Eve Party(Tue Dec 31)
    What: Red-carpet entrance, champagne toast, live DJ + saxophonist, and VIP bottle service options. Free entry with RSVP — but don’t wait too long; it’s billed as Alpharetta’s biggest NYE bash.

❄️ Kringle Crawl – Crabapple Market District(mid-December, date confirmed by venues)
What: Suite 200 Grille, HYDE Brewing, and Vice Steak Bar join forces for Crabapple’s biggest Christmas bar crawl. Expect festive cocktails, holiday chaos, and a packed crowd. RSVPs recommended.

Have an event you would like to spread the word about? Click 👉 here to submit your event.

A holiday advent calendar… but make it for adults.

We’ve entered the stretch of December where kids get advent calendars filled with chocolate, toys, and tiny sugar bombs — and honestly? Good for them.
But adults deserve a countdown too… ideally one with caffeine, candles, or the occasional mini bottle of wine.

So tell us:

Here are this week’s five “doors” — festive little treats you can click, gift, or hoard for yourself (no judgment).



🍷
1. The 12 Nights of Wine Sampler

What: A chic collection of single-serve wines, perfect for quiet evenings, festive gatherings, or pretending you’re in a Hallmark movie.
Why it hits: No commitment to a full bottle — just nightly holiday joy.

🍫 2. Artisanal Chocolate Flight Box

What: A gourmet set of tiny truffles that taste like the expensive part of December.
Why it hits: Ideal for “just one more” moments.

🕯️ 3. “Light the Season” Candle Trio

What: A cozy candle sampler with winter scents like pine, fireplace ember, and vanilla snow.
Why it hits: Adds instant atmosphere without rearranging your whole house.

🧖‍♀️ 4. Lancome 10pc Spa Reset Kit

What: 10 pc Beauty Box This season, embark on an extraordinary journey from Paris to happiness.
Why it hits: December is loud — we believe in the power of rest + relaxation

☕ 5. Holiday Hot Drink Advent Sampler

What: 16 different mini BomBombs flavors and cocoa mixes — all in a cute box.
Why it hits: Perfect for chilly mornings, office desks, and “I deserve something nice” moments.

🎙️ If it’s loud, live, or worthy of a standing O, it's live on the A-Side!

  • Open Mic Jam hosted by Dwan Bosman – The Velvet Note
    📍 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, Alpharetta
    ⏰ Thu Dec 11, 8–11pm
    💲 $20
    What: Georgia’s longest-running jazz open mic — a talent-packed, standing-room-sometimes event where the vibe is intimate and the musicianship is unreal.

    Atlanta Dance Theatre – The Nutcracker
    📍 Roswell Cultural Arts Center
    ⏰ Fri Dec 12, 7pm (plus Sat/Sun shows)
    💲 From ~$23.50
    What: A polished, hometown holiday production with gorgeous costumes, big stage energy, and the annual “Yep, it’s December now” moment.

    Acoustic Soul starring Antonio Ramone – The Velvet Note
    📍 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, Alpharetta
    ⏰ Fri Dec 12, 7:30pm & 9:30pm
    💲 $40
    What: Smooth R&B + jazz in a living-room-sized venue. Steamy, soulful, and tailor-made for date night.

    The Nutcracker – Roswell Cultural Arts Center
    📍 950 Forrest St, Roswell
    ⏰ Sat Dec 13, 2pm & 7pm
    💲 From ~$23.50
    What: Saturday brings both a matinee and an evening option for this local classic. A perfect multigenerational outing before holiday dinners.

    Drummer Lorenzo Sanford – The Velvet Note
    📍 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, Alpharetta
    ⏰ Sat Dec 13, 7:30pm & 9:30pm
    💲 $40
    What: A powerhouse jazz drummer backed by an all-star group. Expect tight rhythms, improvised magic, and that signature Velvet Note intimacy.

    Vince Guaraldi’s A Charlie Brown Christmas – The Velvet Note
    📍 4075 Old Milton Pkwy, Alpharetta
    ⏰ Sun Dec 14, 6pm & 8pm
    💲 $45
    What: The nostalgic Peanuts soundtrack performed live. It’s warm, whimsical holiday energy wrapped in jazz — one of the city’s best December traditions.

    Metropolitan Ballet Theatre – The Nutcracker at Innovation Academy
    📍 125 Milton Ave, Downtown Alpharetta
    ⏰ Sun Dec 14, 2pm & 6pm
    💲 Ticketed
    What: A 24-year Alpharetta holiday tradition, now staged in a sleek new venue. Local dancers, big heart, classic magic.
    Annie – Arcadia Theater
    📍 180 Academy St, Downtown Alpharetta
    ⏰ Sun Dec 14, 2–4pm
    💲 Ticketed
    What: The beloved musical returns with a full cast of local talent. Expect standout kids, classic songs, and a heart-melting “Tomorrow.”

The place you’ve been looking for… even if you didn’t know it yet.

⭐️ Linen & Flax – Roswell’s Chicest Home Boutique

What:
A beautifully curated home shop in the heart of Historic Roswell, Linen & Flax is where neutral palettes, warm textures, and timeless style quietly steal your heart (and possibly your paycheck). From luxe throw blankets and sculptural pottery to candles, tabletop pieces, seasonal accents, and giftables that feel effortlessly elevated, everything here looks like it came straight out of a magazine spread.

Their holiday collection is especially swoon-worthy — think soft winter whites, natural greenery, handcrafted ornaments, and cozy home layering pieces that make your whole space feel intentional and calm in the midst of December chaos.

A-Side Take:
If you’re aiming for that “my home looks ready for a holiday photoshoot without me doing the most” vibe, this is your spot. Go for a gift. Leave with a new coffee table arrangement. It happens to the best of us.


📸 Guess the Photo

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

Answer revealed next week in the Fadeout!!



Candy Cane Hunt – East Roswell Recreation Center

📍 9000 Fouts Rd, Roswell
⏰ Fri Dec 12, 6–7:30pm
💲 Modest fee
What: Flashlights + sugar rush = the kids’ favorite event of the season. Fast-paced, outdoors, and guaranteed to burn off at least some December wiggles.

Breakfast with Santa – Park Place

📍 3125 Old Alabama Rd, Johns Creek
⏰ Sat Dec 13, 10:30am
💲 Free
What: A sweet, small-town style meet-and-greet with Santa that avoids the mall chaos. Crafts, treats, and plenty of adorable photo ops.


Holly Jolly Market – You42 Studios

📍 11000 Alpharetta Hwy, Roswell
⏰ Sat Dec 13, 10am–2pm
💲 Free (may request registration)
What: Market stalls, Santa + Grinch photo ops, and lots of kid-friendly holiday energy. Great for last-minute gifts and letting the littles run around.


Cookies with Santa + Toy Drive – Little Sunshine Playhouse

📍 12070 Etris Rd, Roswell
⏰ Sat Dec 13 (check host for times)
💲 Free
What: Cookie decorating, train rides, Santa photos, and the feel-good bonus of donating toys for the Salvation Army. Kids leave sticky and happy — the true measure of success.


Halcyon Countdown to Christmas Shopping Event + Toy Drive

📍 6365 Halcyon Way (Alpharetta/Cumming area)
⏰ Sat Dec 13 (two sessions; see event)
💲 Free entry
What: A family-friendly shopping stroll with holiday activations and a community toy drive. Grab cocoa, browse boutiques, drop off toys, and enjoy Halcyon’s easy-breezy “park once and roam” setup.

RHS Soccer “Run for Kicks” 5K & Fun Run

📍 Sweet Apple Elementary, Roswell
⏰ Sat Dec 13, 8am
💲 Registration fee
What: A community race supporting Roswell HS soccer teams. Great for families who like to start Saturday with a little sweat before diving into holiday treats.


Cross of Life’s Christmas Festival & Market

📍 1000 Hembree Rd, Roswell
⏰ Sun Dec 14, 4–7pm (pre-fun at 3pm)
💲 Free
What: Bounce houses, petting zoo, yard games, cocoa, s’mores, vendors, and service-project stations. Basically the “Swiss Army knife” of family events — one stop, tons to do.


Jingle Jog at Avalon

📍 Avalon, Alpharetta
⏰ Sun Dec 14 (time varies)
💲 Registration/brunch fee
What: A fun, low-pressure run with Santa himself, followed by brunch. Great for active families and cute holiday photos.


Menorah Lighting at Avalon

📍 Palmer Plaza, Avalon
⏰ Sun Dec 14, evening
💲 Free
What: A warm and welcoming community Chanukah celebration that brings families together for music, light, and festive moments.


Avalon on Ice (Ongoing)

📍 Avalon, Alpharetta
⏰ Daily rink hours
💲 Ticketed
What: Whether it’s the kids’ first time on skates or their 50th, Avalon’s rink remains the most photogenic winter backdrop around.




Click 👉 here to submit your event.

Santa Social Pop-Up Bar – Downtown Alpharetta
📍 Multiple venues across Downtown Alpharetta
⏰ Thu Dec 11, Tue Dec 16, Wed Dec 17 | 5–11pm
💲 Varies by venue
What: A twinkle-lit holiday bar hop with seasonal cocktails and more photo ops than your camera roll can handle. Ideal for friend groups, after-dinner drinks, or a spontaneous “let’s be festive” moment.


Miracle on Main Street Pop-Up Bar

📍 Downtown Alpharetta
⏰ Fri Dec 12, 5pm–2am
💲 Varies
What: The campiest, coziest holiday cocktail takeover in town — think tinsel explosions, boozy hot chocolates, and the kind of décor that screams yes, it’s December.


Elf’d Up Holiday Pop-Up Bar

📍 Downtown Alpharetta
⏰ Mon Dec 15 & Thu Dec 18, 5–11pm
💲 Varies
What: A cheeky, Elf-inspired holiday lounge with punny cocktails and over-the-top decorations. Perfect for office outings or a night when you want your drink with a side of chaos.


Crazy Love Coffeehouse – Christmas Flights

📍 1088 Canton St, Roswell
⏰ Available daily (limited seasonal run)
💲 Varies
What: A cozy winter trio featuring Peppermint White Mocha, Gingerbread Latte, and Snickerdoodle Steamer. Basically the happiest caffeine flight of the season — and yes, all come in full-size options.


Blizzard Punch – Central City Tavern

📍 Alpharetta (City Center) & Halcyon locations
⏰ Seasonal special
💲 Standard cocktail pricing
What: A frosty-blue, coconut-rimmed, ski-lodge-in-a-glass moment. “Snow gear optional” but strongly encouraged — this cocktail is pure winter vacation energy.


Trivia Night at Catrina’s Mexican Grill

📍 870 N Main St, Alpharetta
⏰ Tue Dec 16, 7pm
💲 Free to play
What: Friendly, slightly chaotic general-knowledge trivia night with great tacos and even better margaritas. A surprisingly fun Tuesday hang that always attracts a lively crowd.


Halcyon Countdown to Christmas + Toy Drive

📍 Halcyon, 6365 Halcyon Way
⏰ Sat Dec 13 (two sessions)
💲 Free entry
What: Holiday shopping meets bites and sips — with toy donations, festive activations, hot drinks, and dessert stops. A perfect “grab a cocoa and wander” outing.

Malvi Mallow Pop-Up
📍 Avalon
⏰ Open Daily
💵 Varies
What: Alpharetta’s sweetest little secret — handmade marshmallows that will ruin you for store-bought forever.


A quick peek at the festive fun happening just beyond Alpharetta’s borders.

Roswell

  • ❄️ ChristKindlmarket- Roswell Town Square (ongoing)
  • ❄️ Candy Cane Hunt — East Roswell Rec Center (Fri Dec 12)
  • ❄️ Holly Jolly Market — You42 Studios (Sat Dec 13)
  • ❄️ Cookies with Santa + Toy Drive — Little Sunshine Playhouse (Sat Dec 13)
  • ❄️ RHS “Run for Kicks” 5K & Fun Run (Sat Dec 13)
  • ❄️ BYOM Yoga — Gate City Brewing (Sat Dec 13)
  • ❄️ The Nutcracker — Roswell Cultural Arts Center (Fri–Sat Dec 12–13)
  • ❄️ Cross of Life Christmas Festival & Market (Sun Dec 14)
  • ❄️ Crazy Love Coffeehouse Christmas Flights (all week)

Johns Creek

  • ❄️ Breakfast with Santa — Park Place (Sat Dec 13)
  • ❄️ The Sounds of the Seasons — Johns Creek Chorale (Sat Dec 13)

Halcyon (Cumming border)

  • ❄️ Halcyon Countdown to Christmas + Toy Drive (Sat Dec 13)

❄️ Blizzard Punch — Central City Tavern (all week)
Atlanta

❄️ GardenGarden Nights, Holiday Lights – Atlanta Botanical Garden (Nightly -Dec)

🎄 Tate House Holiday Tours – The Pink Palace Goes Full Christmas Magic

📍 Tate, GA (easy weekend drive from Alpharetta)
Dec 1–23, 2025 (multiple dates & times)
💲 $25 Tour | Add-on lunch, tea, or dinner packages available

What:
Georgia’s famous “Pink Palace” only opens to the public once a year — and the holiday season is the moment it goes all out. This year’s décor is reportedly the best yet (locals are already buzzing), thanks to its new conservatory and design magic by Paul, the former decorator from Tavern on the Green in NYC. Think maximalist Christmas layered onto a 1920s marble mansion.

Guided tours walk you through every room dripping in seasonal glam, followed by a charming onsite holiday market. It’s part architecture tour, part design inspiration, part Hallmark movie — and absolutely worth the drive.

A-Side Take:
If you love interiors, décor, or just want to feel immersed in “holiday-but-make-it-grand,” this is your December must-do. Book ahead — these tours always get snapped up.

Can you solve this week’s scramble?

Scramble: EBIERFE
Hint:
Something you don't have to pay for

Blanks: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (7)


Answer revealed at the bottom see The Fadeout section! 👇

The Pine-But-Make-It-Chic Trick

If your greenery is looking a little tired, tuck in fresh pine or cedar clippings from your yard (or honestly, from the seasonal aisle at Trader Joe’s). Instant volume, instant fragrance, and that expensive holiday look—without the expensive part.

It works like magic on garlands, wreaths, mantel swags, and even stray vases that need a little “December joy.” A tiny tweak that makes the whole room feel intentional.

Hello! 👋
A warm welcome to everyone who just moved to Alpharetta, Milton, Johns Creek, or anywhere nearby. This community runs on good food, good neighbors, and an always-busy events calendar—and we’d love for you to be part of it.

If this is your first December on the A-Side, you picked a magical time to arrive. Expect twinkle lights everywhere, markets buzzing, Santa making cameo appearances all over town, and more festive happenings than your calendar has room for.

Jump in wherever you like. There’s always room at the table.

🎒 Newcomer Starter Kit

A few quick tips to help you settle in like a local.

1. Start with coffee (always).
Crazy Love in Roswell for cozy mornings, Warm Waves for minimalist caffeine vibes, and Valor for when you need espresso that means business.

2. Learn the Alpharetta triangle.
Avalon → Downtown Alpharetta → Halcyon.
If you can navigate these three, you can basically navigate the entire social ecosystem here.

3. Weekend rule: wander first, plan later.
Farmers markets, pop-ups, festivals, and surprise performances happen constantly. If you hear music or see twinkle lights—follow them. It’s probably something fun.

Subscribe Here

Cross of Life’s 5th Annual Christmas Festival & Market

📍 1000 Hembree Rd, Roswell
⏰ Sun Dec 14, 4–7pm (pre-fun at 3pm)
💲 Free
What: A wholesome community evening with bounce houses, yard games, cocoa, s’mores, a petting zoo, local vendors, and hands-on service project stations. Easy parking, family-friendly, and powered entirely by neighbors who show up big for the season.

Cookies with Santa + Toy Drive – Little Sunshine Playhouse

📍 12070 Etris Rd, Roswell
⏰ Sat Dec 13 (times vary)
💲 Free
What: A Christmas cookie workshop for kids combined with a Salvation Army toy drive. Bring a new toy, grab a sweet treat, and sprinkle a little kindness around town.

Halcyon Countdown to Christmas – Community Toy Drive

📍 Halcyon, 6365 Halcyon Way
⏰ Sat Dec 13 (two sessions)
💲 Free entry
What: Not strictly civic, but the toy drive component absolutely lands here. Drop off donations, shop small, and support the community while soaking up the festive scene.

Menorah Lighting at Avalon

📍 Palmer Plaza at Avalon
⏰ Sun Dec 14, evening
💲 Free
What: A beautiful public Chanukah ceremony with music and blessings that brings the whole community together. Always warm, always welcoming, and always very Alpharetta.

RHS Soccer “Run for Kicks” 5K & Fun Run

📍 Sweet Apple Elementary, Roswell
⏰ Sat Dec 13, 8am
💲 Registration fee
What: A community fundraiser supporting Roswell High School’s soccer programs. A great way to contribute locally — and get those steps in before the holiday snacking begins.

Toys for Tots / Salvation Army Toy Drop Spots

📍 Various locations (Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek)
⏰ Ongoing through mid-December
💲 Free
What: Multiple holiday drives are live around town — perfect for families wanting to give back. (Let me know if you'd like a roundup of confirmed drop-off spots to include in this section.)

BYOM Yoga @ Gate City Brewing (Community Wellness Add-in)

📍 43 Magnolia St, Roswell
⏰ Sat Dec 13, 10:30am
💲 ~$15–20
What: Not civic in the strictest sense, but it’s a solid community wellness gathering — neighborly, local, and an easy Saturday feel-good win. You were right: it fits best here rather than in food/drink or entertainment.

North Fulton Community Charities — Holiday Assistance Program
📍 Roswell & Alpharetta NFCC locations
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 — Holiday Wish List for Moms & Kids
📍 Roswell
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 — Alpharetta Fire Stations
📍 All Alpharetta fire stations (official drop sites)
What: Drop off new, unwrapped toys that stay local, supporting families in Alpharetta and North Fulton.


Click 👉 here to submit your event.

🧁 Bakery Counter + Barista — Warm Waves Coffee, Alpharetta

Help fuel the city’s caffeine cravings. Perks include espresso proximity, regulars who tip well, and smelling like pastries (in a good way).

🎨 Kids Art Studio Assistant — Roswell

A cheerful, creative studio is looking for a part-time helper who doesn’t mind glitter, tiny masterpieces, or the occasional paint-splattered high-five.

📚 Library Circulation Assistant — Milton / Crabapple

For the organized, book-loving soul who enjoys helping people find their next great read. Bonus: peaceful work environment and zero holiday Muzak.

🍴 Host + Front of House Roles — Downtown Alpharetta Restaurants

City Center hot spots are hiring warm, friendly hosts to handle December’s rush. Great for students home on break or anyone wanting flexible hours.

🐾 Pet Care + Kennel Tech — Johns Creek

A local vet clinic is hiring for part-time pet helpers. Must love dogs. And cats. And owners who refer to their pets as “fur babies.”

🛍️ Holiday Stock / Merch Team — Roswell Home Goods Store

Backroom elves needed. Great for early birds and people who find folding towels therapeutic.

📣 Hiring? Know of a gig?

Send your job posting to the A-Side and we’ll help spread the word.
👉 Submit here: submit-a-gig
(Or reply directly to this newsletter — neighbor to neighbor works too.)

🌿 Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville, Autograph Collection

📍 44 E Camperdown Way, Greenville, SC
⏰ Perfect for a 1–2 night winter getaway
💲 Rates vary (Autograph Collection)

What:
A dramatic, design-forward lodge perched above the Reedy River with all the warmth of a mountain retreat — minus the long drive. The Grand Bohemian Lodge blends stone, wood, oversized fireplaces, curated art, and that signature Autograph Collection ambiance that feels equal parts cozy and couture.

The interiors are what stop people in their tracks: soaring ceilings, moody paint, velvet textures, curated bookcases, sculptural lighting, and a lobby that looks like a luxury home theater set mixed with a National Park lodge.

Outside, you’re steps from Falls Park, the Liberty Bridge, local galleries, and Greenville’s lively restaurant scene.

A-Side Take:
It’s the “let’s escape but keep it bougie” winter getaway. A perfect overnight for couples, design lovers, or anyone who wants a peaceful reset without crossing state lines twice.

🥂 TOAST — To the Fieldstone Neighbors

Thanks to the neighbors who developed the concept, built, painted, lighted, and installed the
holiday decor at the neighborhood entrance!!! Y'all rock!!!

🔥 ROAST — Whoever invented glittered gift bags

Nothing spreads holiday cheer (and permanent micro-sparkle) faster than opening one of these in your living room. One bag = glitter until April.

📣 BOAST — Alpharetta’s pop-up bars showing up BIG

Between Santa Social, Miracle on Main, and Elf’d Up… the town is giving full “December nightlife Olympics.” Gold medals all around.

🥂 TOAST — To every parent who survived a Candy Cane Hunt

Your kids had fun. They burned energy. They now have 47 candy canes. You’ve earned a quiet moment and possibly a cocoa flight.

🔥 ROAST — To the weather for not picking a lane

Cold in the morning, warm by lunch, freezing by dinner. Alpharetta is basically cosplaying as three different states a day.

📣 BOAST — To the local toy drives filling up fast

Halcyon, Little Sunshine Playhouse, and a dozen neighborhood bins are overflowing. You all showed UP this week, A-Siders. Big heart energy.

🎁 Have a holiday Roast, Boast, or Toast?

Did your lights tangle themselves? Did your neighbor’s décor win the block? Did someone finally perfect the peppermint bark?
Share your festive highs, lows, and LOLs — we’ll feature our favorites in next week’s sleigh-ride edition. Click a button below to submit! 👇

🔥 Roast 🏆 Boast 🥂 Toast

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

🎁 Wanted:
A neighbor with impeccable wrapping skills

Compensation includes cocoa, gossip, and unlimited use of our sparkly ribbon stash. Must not judge crooked corners.

🪩 For Trade:
Holiday candles (3) — scents include “Winter Cabin,” “Cozy Flannel,” and “Hmm… Interesting.”

Open to swaps for something citrus-forward or less existential.

📦 For Sale:

Set of unused gift bags (12)
Bought optimistically… realized I am a chronic last-minute wrapper. Yours for $5 or one good roll of tape.

❄️ Wanted:

A pre-lit wreath that actually lights
Ours flickers like it’s sending Morse code. Will pay cash or cookies.


Editor’s Note:
Have a real ad? We’ll happily mix it in with the fake ones next week — bonus points if it’s just as weird.

Click 👉 here to submit your item / opportunity.

Word Puzzle Answer: FREEBIE

Last Week's Guess the Photo Answer:

The Laborer- Climb up his left leg to experience the magic!!!


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


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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.....

🌙 More joy, less hurry. More cocoa, less chaos. See you next week on the A-Side.

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