Gratitude, Comfort & Celebration in the Heart of Georgia
Every year, Thanksgiving in Atlanta brings people together in the spirit of gratitude, generosity, and good food. The city shines with its southern charm, offering world-class dining, unbeatable shopping deals, and heartfelt community service opportunities.
Whether you’re a foodie searching for the perfect Atlanta Thanksgiving dinner, a bargain hunter ready for holiday shopping in Atlanta, or a family looking to give back to the community, this city offers it all.
And with ConCord Limousine taking care of your transportation, you can focus on what truly matters—celebrating the holiday with ease, comfort, and style.
1. Where to Dine: The Best Thanksgiving Feasts in Atlanta
Atlanta knows how to do Thanksgiving right. From luxurious hotel banquets to cozy southern diners, the city offers a feast for every taste and budget.
Here’s your guide to the best Thanksgiving dining experiences in Atlanta for 2025.
1.1. The St. Regis Atlanta – A Feast Fit for Royalty
Located in Buckhead, The St. Regis Atlanta is known for its elegance and exquisite Thanksgiving brunch. Expect a gourmet spread featuring carved turkey, prime rib, seafood towers, and decadent desserts.
The event is hosted in the Grand Ballroom, complete with live jazz and champagne.
Perfect For: Families, couples, or anyone looking for luxury.
Address: 88 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA
Reservations: Required weeks in advance.
1.2. Mary Mac’s Tea Room – A Southern Classic
When you think of Atlanta Thanksgiving dining, Mary Mac’s Tea Room always comes to mind. This legendary restaurant has been serving traditional Southern comfort food since 1945.
Their Thanksgiving menu features turkey with cornbread dressing, sweet potato soufflé, mac and cheese, collard greens, and their signature banana pudding.
Perfect For: Families, locals, and anyone craving nostalgic Southern flavors.
1.3. South City Kitchen Midtown – Modern Southern Charm
With its chic ambiance and modern take on Southern fare, South City Kitchen is one of Atlanta’s top Thanksgiving dining spots. Enjoy roasted turkey, bourbon-glazed ham, and side dishes that celebrate Georgia’s culinary heritage.
Pro Tip: Reserve early—the restaurant fills up fast every Thanksgiving.
1.4. Maggiano’s Little Italy – Family-Style Celebration
If you’re looking for a warm, family-style Thanksgiving dinner, Maggiano’s in Buckhead and Cumberland offers both dine-in and take-home options. Their three-course holiday menu includes turkey, pasta, and classic Italian sides.
Perfect For: Families and large groups.
1.5. Canoe Restaurant – Riverside Elegance
Nestled along the Chattahoochee River, Canoe combines breathtaking views with farm-to-table cuisine. Their Thanksgiving dinner includes smoked turkey, roasted duck, and seasonal sides made from locally sourced ingredients.
Perfect For: Romantic dinners or quiet family gatherings.
1.6. Ray’s on the River – Thanksgiving by the Water
For seafood lovers, Ray’s on the River is a top pick. Their Thanksgiving buffet blends traditional dishes with fresh seafood options. Pair your meal with a glass of wine while enjoying scenic riverfront views.
1.7. The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta – Downtown Sophistication
The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta offers one of the city’s most elegant Thanksgiving brunches, featuring carving stations, artisanal breads, and gourmet desserts.
For travelers spending the holiday downtown, this is a must-visit.
2. Where to Shop: Black Friday & Holiday Markets
After a day of feasting, it’s time to shop! Atlanta’s holiday shopping scene transforms into a festive wonderland, filled with deals, boutiques, and artisan markets.
Here are the best places to find gifts and enjoy holiday shopping in Atlanta this Thanksgiving weekend.
2.1. Lenox Square Mall
Atlanta’s most famous shopping destination, Lenox Square, is home to brands like Louis Vuitton, Apple, and Macy’s. During Black Friday, doors open early, offering massive discounts on luxury and tech products.
Pro Tip: Arrive in a ConCord Limousine to avoid parking chaos and long lines.
2.2. Phipps Plaza – Upscale Holiday Shopping
Located across from Lenox Square, Phipps Plaza caters to luxury shoppers. Visit Saks Fifth Avenue, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co., then dine at one of its fine restaurants for a sophisticated shopping day.
2.3. Atlantic Station Holiday Market
This open-air market in Midtown features artisan vendors, handmade crafts, and festive decorations. You’ll also find a giant holiday tree, ice skating rink, and family-friendly entertainment.
Perfect For: Families and couples seeking a cozy holiday atmosphere.
2.4. Avalon in Alpharetta
A short limo ride from downtown Atlanta, Avalon offers boutique shopping, upscale dining, and outdoor movie screenings during the holiday season.
It’s ideal for a relaxed post-Thanksgiving weekend outing.
2.5. Ponce City Market – Local & Eclectic
This former Sears building turned retail hub is one of Atlanta’s trendiest destinations. Ponce City Market hosts pop-up shops, rooftop games, and restaurants offering post-Thanksgiving cocktails and bites.
Perfect For: Young professionals and trendsetters.
3. Where to Give Thanks: Volunteer & Community Service Opportunities
Thanksgiving is a time to give back. Atlanta’s generous spirit shines through numerous volunteer programs and charitable events that help those in need.
Here’s where you can give thanks and give back this holiday season.
3.1. Hosea Helps Thanksgiving Dinner
For over 50 years, Hosea Helps has hosted Atlanta’s largest community Thanksgiving dinner, serving meals to thousands in need. Volunteers assist with cooking, serving, and organizing donations.
Location: Georgia International Convention Center
Best For: Groups, families, corporate volunteers.
3.2. Atlanta Community Food Bank
Help pack and distribute food to families across the metro area. The Atlanta Community Food Bank welcomes volunteers of all ages during the holiday season.
3.3. Meals on Wheels Atlanta
Deliver warm meals to seniors and homebound residents. This act of service is a beautiful way to connect with the community while spreading kindness.
3.4. Habitat for Humanity – Holiday Builds
Spend Thanksgiving weekend helping build homes for families in need. It’s hands-on, fulfilling, and perfect for team-building or family volunteering.
3.5. Trees Atlanta – “Give Thanks, Plant Trees”
For nature lovers, Trees Atlanta hosts volunteer events focused on reforestation and park clean-ups—turning gratitude into growth.
4. Thanksgiving Events & Family Fun
Thanksgiving in Atlanta is more than food and shopping. The city buzzes with festivals, parades, and activities perfect for family bonding.
4.1. Macy’s Great Tree Lighting at Lenox Square
This beloved tradition marks the start of the holiday season with live music, fireworks, and the lighting of the 70-foot tree. It’s one of Atlanta’s most magical nights.
Date: Thanksgiving night, November 27, 2025
4.2. Garden Lights, Holiday Nights – Atlanta Botanical Garden
A dazzling display of over one million LED lights turns the Botanical Garden into a winter wonderland. Families love exploring the glowing tunnels and sipping hot cocoa.
4.3. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta – Thanksgiving Fun
Perfect for young kids, the Children’s Museum offers hands-on crafts, storytimes, and science activities with a Thanksgiving twist.
4.4. Stone Mountain Park Pumpkin & Holiday Festival
Celebrate Thanksgiving weekend with laser shows, train rides, and glowing pumpkin parades at Stone Mountain Park.
4.5. Callaway Gardens Fantasy in Lights
Just a short drive from Atlanta, this world-renowned light display features millions of sparkling bulbs and holiday-themed scenes.
