The Decatur Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has announced a comprehensive lineup of holiday initiatives designed to attract visitors and support local businesses. The program, dubbed “Holidays in Decatur,” includes weekly “Terrific Thursday” events from Nov. 6 through Dec. 18, featuring activities such as an official ornament unveiling, photos with Santa, a tree lighting ceremony, a bonfire, and an outdoor screening of Happy Feet. Additional promotions include a “Shop Early, Shop Local” campaign offering a $20 gift card for every $200 spent at local retailers in November, and a “Gingerbread Takeover” where shops decorate giant cookie cutouts.
Conor McNally, chair of the Decatur DDA, emphasized the collaborative effort behind the events: “We are excited to welcome locals and visitors alike to Downtown Decatur this holiday season, as our team has worked hard to ensure we truly have something for everyone.” The DDA also highlighted ongoing investments in the area, including new restaurants and retailer enhancements. The holiday season will unfold against the backdrop of the $8.5 million renovation of Decatur Square, which is on track for an April 2026 reopening, just in time for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the associated Decatur WatchFest ’26.
Key holiday events include a menorah lighting on Dec. 14 for Hanukkah, and Small Business Saturday on Nov. 29 with Santa visits, free milk and cookies, and gift wrapping. Letters to Santa can be dropped at three locations, including the Decatur Visitors Center. The DDA, founded in 1982, manages Decatur’s commercial districts and works to attract investment. For details, visit VisitDecaturGA.com/holidays.
