Experience the Joy of a Small-Town Christmas in Oneonta
By Nicole Tolbert
This holiday season, make Oneonta your destination for festive fun, local shopping, and timeless Christmas traditions. The celebrations begin on Friday, November 28th, with Christmas in Toyland, Blount County's largest holiday event. Hosted in partnership with numerous community organizations, the evening features the Community Christmas Tree Lighting, City Christmas Market, carriage rides, photos with Santa, and more from 5pm - 8 pm. All the magic happens at the Oneonta Depot ( 28117 State Highway 75 Oneonta, AL 35121).
"We're proud to be part of such a wonderful community that comes together to make this special event happen," says Oneonta Business Association member Lisa Wester. "The OBA began hosting the Community Christmas Tree Lighting a few years ago, and since then, the City of Oneonta has joined in with the City Christmas Market on the same night. This year, the fine folks from the Blount-Oneonta Chamber of Commerce and Blount County Tourism are also getting involved. It's a beautiful event, and we're thrilled to see it continue to grow each year."
In addition to the November 28th celebration, Christmas in Toyland festivities continue on Friday, December 5th, from 5pm - 8pm. Visitors can enjoy more holiday shopping with local handmade merchants, take a carriage ride, and visit Santa for photos and memories. New this year is the Walk to Bethlehem, and immersive experience featuring live scenes of the Nativity story presented by local churches. "We invite visitors to journey through these scenes depicting the birth of Christ," says Lisa Wester. "It's a meaningful way to celebrate the season and reflect on the true heart of Christmas."
While Christmas in Toyland will draw visitors from across the area, another beloved tradition returns soon after. The Blount County Christmas Parade, hosted by the Blount-Oneonta Chamber of Commerce is scheduled for Tuesday, December 9th, this five-mile celebration fills the streets with festive floats, marching bands, walking groups, and holiday cheer. The parade begins at 7 p.m. and remains one of Blount County’s most cherished Christmas events.
Twinkling lights to cherished traditions help Oneonta shine with the spirit of Christmas. Visitors can shop local, enjoy festive carriage rides, experience the Walk to Bethlehem, and take in the sights and sounds of the Blount County Christmas Parade. With so much to see and do, Oneonta offers a season full of holiday magic and community cheer.
