Growing up in Marietta, our family had a summer tradition of buying a big bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken and going to Stone Mountain Park to see the laser show. I remember running around barefoot in the grass with my sisters waiting for the laser show to start. The big splurge was buying glow in the dark necklaces. But, Stone Mountain Park has much more to offer than its summer laser show as I recently found out.
Our family took a Saturday trip to experience Stone Mountain Christmas. We were instantly put in the holiday spirit with all the decorations, festive music and shimmering lights in the village. As our tween boys have a love of mini golf, we first made our way to the Great Locomotive Chase Adventure Mini Golf. The boys loved it when the evening came and the course was adorned with lights and glow in the dark effects.
We made our way over to the Snow Angel's Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony. The parade had floats, characters, dancing and music. And, of course Mr. and Mrs. Claus closed out the parade waving to all the kids. I suddenly felt like Buddy the Elf chanting "SANTA," and snapping photos like I was the paparazzi. You couldn't help but feel the Christmas excitement in the air. Be sure to check the parade schedule and find a spot along the route a little early.
There is a sing-along open aired train ride that takes riders on a scenic tour of the mountain and includes a stop for passengers to hear a beautiful story. Throughout the park, there is live entertainment and meet and greet opportunities with holiday characters including Santa Claus. We also enjoyed hot chocolate and treats.
Before we left, we hopped over to the 4-D Polar Express movie experience. Our boys liked all the 4-D special effects, including the snow. As I watched the short movie of the magical Christmas train and the story a young boy finding in his heart to believe, it gave me the nostalgic feelings from back in the day when our boys would ask for simple things like a train for Christmas. Fast forward to the tween years when their wish lists entails electronics and specific brand shoes. I am quickly reminded how fast kids grow up and the need to truly enjoy each Christmas they spend with us.
As we headed to the car, the boys were talking about their Christmas wish lists. And, as I heard one exclaim, "can we do that Snow Mountain thing next time," it gave me an experience gift idea! (Snow Mountain is not included in the Stone Mountain Christmas price).
You don't have to travel far to find a winter escape this holiday season. Check out Stone Mountain Christmas and experience the joy of a family holiday outing right here close to home.
Note: I received complimentary admission to Stone Mountain Park for my family in exchange for this review, however all thoughts and opinions above are my own.
