SATURDAY Dec 13 📍 Alpharetta City Center 🎁 Stuff a Mercedes! — Holiday Toy Drive
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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:
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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!
The place you’ve been looking for… even if you didn’t know it yet.
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.
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
Johns Creek
Halcyon (Cumming border)
❄️ Blizzard Punch — Central City Tavern (all week)
Atlanta
❄️ GardenGarden Nights, Holiday Lights – Atlanta Botanical Garden (Nightly -Dec)
📍 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.
📍 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.
📍 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, 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.
📍 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.
📍 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.
📍 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.)
📍 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.
Help fuel the city’s caffeine cravings. Perks include espresso proximity, regulars who tip well, and smelling like pastries (in a good way).
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.
For the organized, book-loving soul who enjoys helping people find their next great read. Bonus: peaceful work environment and zero holiday Muzak.
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.
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.”
Backroom elves needed. Great for early birds and people who find folding towels therapeutic.
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.)
📍 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.
Thanks to the neighbors who developed the concept, built, painted, lighted, and installed the
holiday decor at the neighborhood entrance!!! Y'all rock!!!
Nothing spreads holiday cheer (and permanent micro-sparkle) faster than opening one of these in your living room. One bag = glitter until April.
Between Santa Social, Miracle on Main, and Elf’d Up… the town is giving full “December nightlife Olympics.” Gold medals all around.
Your kids had fun. They burned energy. They now have 47 candy canes. You’ve earned a quiet moment and possibly a cocoa flight.
Cold in the morning, warm by lunch, freezing by dinner. Alpharetta is basically cosplaying as three different states a day.
Halcyon, Little Sunshine Playhouse, and a dozen neighborhood bins are overflowing. You all showed UP this week, A-Siders. Big heart energy.
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! 👇
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.
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!!!
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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."
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."
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.
More for locals: Things to Do in Alpharetta (hub)
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