Get ready to usher in the holiday season with the much-anticipated Sparkle Sandy Springs event on Sunday, December 3, 2023, at City Springs! This year's festivities promise to be bigger and more dazzling than ever,  with highlights like the beloved Sparkle Sandy Springs Parade, a festive concert by The Rupert's Orchestra, the Sparkle Holiday Gift Market, and the enchanting Sparkle Village—a month-long display of miniature lit homes.

Event Highlights:

The Sparkle Sandy Springs Parade

The Sparkle Parade showcases an array of over 45 floats and groups, encompassing marching bands, dancers, characters, puppets, and more—all adorned with stunning, shimmering lights! Commencing at 6:00 p.m., the parade steps off at the intersection of Mount Vernon Highway and Hildebrand Drive. It proceeds along Mount Vernon Highway, takes a left onto Galambos Way, passing by the impressive 3-story-tall tree, and concludes in front of Sandy Springs City Hall. You can expect to see some amazing themed floats, including The Nutcracker, Ghostbusters, and, of course the man himself, ole' St. Nicholas. Below, you can see a drawn-out map of the route! 

Sparkle Parade Route

Sparkle Village

Prepare to be enchanted by the Sparkle Village—a display of six-foot-tall wooden houses adorned with twinkling lights. These miniature homes are creatively decorated by local businesses, schools, and nonprofits, which, coupled with the Skate City Springs ice rink, turns the area into a true winter wonderland. This display will be running all month long, so if you happen to miss this event, don't worry!

Sparkle Sandy Springs

Concert by The Rupert's Orchestra

​From 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., enjoy the sounds of the season with a festive concert by The Rupert's Orchestra on the outdoor stage at City Green. Let the music add to the holiday magic and get everyone into the spirit of the season.

Rupert's Orchestra playing music at sparkle sandy springs

Menorah and Tree Lighting

At 6:50 p.m., witness the beauty of the Menorah lighting, followed by the grand Tree lighting at 6:55 p.m. These timeless traditions add a warm glow to the evening, marking the official start of the holiday season in Sandy Springs.

A family taking a photograph in front of the tree at Sparkle Sandy Springs.

Event Timeline:

  • 3:00 PM: Roads close, paving the way for a safe and enjoyable celebration.

  • 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Immerse yourself in the Sparkle Gift Market on Blue Stone Road—a perfect opportunity to find unique holiday gifts. Food trucks, including Dot Bowl, The Patty Wagon, Gyro Chef, and Mac Queen ATL, will be serving up delicious treats. Don't forget to check out CityBar for snacks, hot chocolate, and the seasonal specialty drink, Mocha Mudslide!

  • 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM: Groove to live music on the Green featuring The Rupert's Orchestra.

  • 6:00 PM: The Sparkle Parade officially steps off, captivating spectators with its festive charm.

  • 6:50 PM: Join in for the Menorah lighting, a symbol of light and hope during the holiday season.

  • 6:55 PM: Witness the grand Tree lighting, illuminating the night with the spirit of the holidays.

  • 7:00 PM: As the clock strikes 7, the event concludes, leaving everyone with heartwarming memories of a magical evening.

​Tips On How To Best Enjoy The Event:

1. Use the Free Shuttle

Due to road closures and expected congestion, opt for the free shuttle service operating from Lake Forest Elementary School (5920 Sandy Springs Circle, 30328) throughout the event. Parking at Lake Forest Elementary is free-of-charge, and the shuttle operates from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. If you do choose to park, check out THIS PAGE to see all of your options.

2. Arrive Early

This is one of the most anticipated Sandy Springs events of the year, and we expect a big crowd! Get to City Springs early to claim your spot for the Sparkle Parade, and take part in all the other fun festivities that'll be taking place. 

3. Pick the Right Viewing Area

There will be plenty of spots to choose from to check out the parade, but some are definitely better than others! The best spot is the new Sparkle Wonderland area being introduced this year. It features snow machines, your favorite holiday characters, and more. Plus, you've got prime access to hot cocoa: Visit the Churro Up Churros Cart to purchase hot cocoa or churros. 

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Don't miss out on this unforgettable community celebration that brings friends, families, and neighbors together in the heart of Sandy Springs. Sparkle Sandy Springs 2023 is set to create cherished memories and kick off the holiday season with joy and splendor. We hope to see you there!

Check out some of our other winter and holiday blogs below: