Thomasville’s Victorian Christmas features ‘Winter Wonderland’

THOMASVILLE — Southwest Georgians are encouraged to get ready to step into a magical winter wonderland as Thomasville hosts its 38th annual Victorian Christmas, bringing holiday cheer, nostalgic traditions, and unforgettable culinary delights to the city’s downtown. This two-night event will take place on Dec. 12-13 from 6-9 p.m., making it a must-attend holiday celebration for the entire family.

In addition to an enchanting lineup of entertainment — including carriage rides, live nativity scenes, snow, and visits with St. Nick — guests can enjoy a variety of delectable dining options. Many downtown Thomasville restaurants will remain open late, providing warm and welcoming spaces for an evening meal. For those who enjoy street food, Victorian Christmas will feature vendors serving festive favorites such as kettle corn, chicken pilau, and funnel cakes. Many merchants also will join in the festivities by offering holiday-themed foods and beverages, ensuring no one goes hungry.

For those who have holiday shopping to do, this event is the perfect opportunity to check items off your list. Most downtown shops will be open on both nights, many offering in-store entertainment to add a festive touch to your shopping experience. Stroll through beautifully decorated stores, find unique gifts, and soak in the holiday spirit.

Visitors can expect Victorian charm combined with modern holiday magic.

“There’s truly something for everyone during Victorian Christmas,” Brandy Avery, the city of Thomasville’s director of Main Street, said. “Whether you’re savoring local flavors, shopping for loved ones, or enjoying live entertainment, this event showcases the best of Thomasville during the holiday season.”

Event highlights include horse-drawn carriage rides with a new route surrounding the Big Oak. New activities including a winter wonderland with real snow and viewings of the 1974 classic movie “The Year Without a Santa Claus,” creating a magical experience for kids and adults alike. Unique vendors will offer gifts such as hand-blown glass ornaments, artisanal goods, and festive treats, and South Georgia Ballet will return performing scenes from “The Nutcracker” right outside the Thomasville Visitors Center. Marshmallow roasting, live music, local entertainment, quick sketch artists, and more will add to the festive feel of this year’s event.

“Victorian Christmas attracts visitors from all around the country,” Thomasville Special Events Coordinator Cassidee Brooks said. “It’s not only a sentimental favorite, but it also provides a significant economic boost to our local economy. That boost, combined with all the work and preparation needed to make the event memorable, showcases the magic of Christmas in Thomasville.”

No tickets are required for Victorian Christmas, and most activities are free to the public. Additional events are scheduled throughout Thomasville during the holiday season. For more information, visit thomasvillega.com/holidayevents or contact the Thomasville Visitors Center at (229) 228-7977.

Special Photo: City of Thomasville