A Hallmark Christmas in Dahlonega, Georgia

As soon as December 1st rolls around its time for Christmas time preparations to begin and for me that includes cozying up with some popcorn to watch 1 or 10 Hallmark Channel movies.  I know I’m not alone in wanting to slip into one of these movies, have all my problems solved in 90 minutes, and marry the cute guy at the end.  Ok , ok I’m getting off track.  But really, a quick getaway to Dahlonega, Georgia during the Christmas season feels just like a beautifully decorated movie.  Allow me to explain…

Within the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll find the small town of Dahlonega.  It’s only about 65 miles north of Atlanta, but the quick drive up leaves you transported to a small town dripping with charm.  Let me tell you, this downtown square is all decked out for Christmas with plenty of lights and trees that surround an illuminated courthouse directly in the center of town square.  Shops and restaurants make up the periphery, with a Catholic Church within walking distance as well.  I love coming here as often as possible, but it’s especially beautiful at this time of year.

My family and I recently drove up for a Sunday night to have a nice dinner and see the lights and decorations.  We ate at Shenanigans Restaurant and Irish Pub.  The menu offered variety and on select nights there is live entertainment.  I enjoyed my fish dinner and thought the portion was just right.  Shenanigans was inside of a converted old home, originally built in the late 19th century.  However, a ramp at the front door makes it accessible.  I’ve always been able to do what I want on my trips to Dahlonega, but because everything is small and built inside old buildings some shops aren’t perfectly accessible.    It hasn’t deterred me from going in the past, but it’s helpful to understand this in advance.

Whenever I go to Dahlonega, I always stop by the Fudge Shoppe.  Because it was a Sunday night and I didn’t pay attention to closing times, they were already closed when we finished dinner.  Oops.  Typically this is a can’t miss for me.  The General Store also closes early on Sunday, but I love stopping in here.  I can always find something to buy here. 🙂   It’s very small and my wheelchair can’t get to the upper level, but it’s still a unique shop that I love to pop in.  There’s a few antique shops that can be fun to hunt for treasures.  I may have just aged myself a few decades, but I love a good antique shop! 

I think what I love most about about Dahlonega is the sense that I have somehow traveled much further than just a 45 minute drive.  I love finding local getaways that take you away from the daily grind.  Step back in time and enjoy the charm of Dahlonega!