Holidays in Douglas-Coffee County
Words by Ashley Locke
Some places do the holidays better—and Douglas-Coffee County, Georgia is one of them. While the rest of the world is rushing through crowded malls and tangled in traffic, this charming South Georgia destination invites you to slow down, breathe in the crisp December air, and reconnect with what the season is really about: wonder, joy, tradition, and the simple magic of time well spent.
In Douglas-Coffee County, the holidays feel like coming home, even if it’s your first visit. You’ll find yourself strolling down a historic downtown lit with twinkling lights, sipping cocoa as you browse locally owned boutiques, watching a Christmas classic at the beautifully restored Martin Centre Theatre, or catching a parade float roll by under a canopy of stars. It’s festive without being frantic, nostalgic without feeling old-fashioned. It’s everything you want this season to be—and nothing you don’t.
Whether you’re traveling with family, gathering your girlfriends for a weekend getaway, or simply chasing a quieter kind of holiday spirit, Douglas-Coffee County offers something special.
Thursday, December 4
Downtown Tree Lighting Ceremony
Start your weekend early with one of the town’s most heartwarming traditions: the tree lighting at Atkinson Plaza. As the sun sets, join the community to watch the giant Christmas tree burst to life in a glow of lights and cheer. Local choirs, including First Methodist Church Kids Choir and the Coffee High Show Choir, will fill the air with holiday classics. You can even grab snacks and cocoa, get your face painted, and snap a selfie with the one-and-only Doug the Gopher Tortoise. (And yes, Santa will be there too!)
Friday, December 5
John Glosson Holiday Concert at the Martin Centre
If you’re a fan of soulful holiday music, don’t miss this: John Glosson—of Duets fame—returns for a heartwarming night of Christmas classics. The beautifully restored Martin Centre Theatre sets the scene for a cozy, elegant evening that’ll have you humming your favorites all the way back to your hotel. It’s no wonder this concert sells out every time.
Friday, December 12
Festival of Lights Christmas Parade
Douglas knows how to throw a parade—and the 61st Annual Festival of Lights is a glowing testament to that. On Friday night, grab a spot along Peterson Avenue and watch as lit-up floats, marching bands, fire trucks, dancers, four-wheelers, and a certain jolly visitor bring the streets to life. This year’s theme? “Holiday Movie Magic.” Expect cinematic charm and small-town sparkle that will wow kids and adults alike.
Saturday, December 13
A jam-packed Saturday with three incredible holiday experiences:
A Royal Christmas Breakfast
Start your day with pancakes and magic! Little ones can meet storybook characters, craft with Santa’s elves, and pose for a festive photo with the big man himself. It’s a joyful way to kick off the day—especially for families traveling with children.
The Trap Carnival
This isn’t your average fair. Curated by The Trap Atelier, this high-energy cultural carnival celebrates creativity and community through rides, food trucks, vendors, music, games, and live entertainment. It’s where South Georgia’s cultural pride shines—and where families and friend groups can make memories that last beyond the holidays.
Christmas on the Farm at General Coffee State Park
Wrap up your day in the most peaceful, picturesque way possible. Head to General Coffee State Park for “Christmas on the Farm,” where the rustic charm of the historic farmstead is lit up in its holiday best. Sip cocoa, enjoy live storytelling and music, and take a keepsake photo with Santa (for just a $5 donation). It’s the perfect holiday wind-down—complete with starry skies and twinkle lights strung through the trees.
While You’re in Town…
Don’t miss the chance to soak in the festive atmosphere all month long. Douglas’s historic downtown is filled with holiday spirit—boutiques and antique stores feature charming window displays, restaurants are dressed up for the season, and the Martin Centre often hosts local performances under the glow of Christmas lights.
Grab lunch at J&D Café to warm up with a bowl of soup and a sandwich, pick up treats at Pearl Makery (their cupcakes and cookies are legendary), and enjoy a memorable dinner at DJ’s Steak and Seafood. And if you’re still shopping for gifts, explore:
- Davis Gifts & Jewelry for stylish finds
- Carver & Co. Boutique for cozy-chic holiday fashion
- Blue Sage for meaningful books and gifts
- Beyond Paradise for trendy apparel and home accessories
December in Douglas-Coffee County feels exactly the way the holidays should: joyful, cozy, and full of connection. Lights twinkle a little brighter, cocoa tastes a little cozier, and every event feels like a treasured memory in the making.
Whether you come for the parade, the music, the shopping, or the stories shared under twinkle lights, you’ll leave with your heart full… and maybe even a new holiday tradition.
