Historic Marietta, Georgia city street near Life University
Outdoors

Life University: Lights of Life

Through Dec 31Nov 26 – Dec 31 · 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM · Nov 26 (Thanksgiving Day) – Dec 31, 2026; open nightly rain or shine. Lights turn on at dark (approx. 5:30 PM). Sunday–Thursday: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM; Friday–Saturday: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM. No advance booking needed.

Life University Campus1269 Barclay Circle, Marietta, GA 30060 · 13.6 mi approx. from AtlantaDirections

All ages (enjoyed primarily from the warmth of your family vehicle; mid-point walking area for animal petting and train rides)

From $15$15 per car or truck; $30 per bus. Cash and major cards accepted at the entrance; no advance tickets needed

About this adventure

Running continuously since 1989, Lights of Life at Life University in Marietta stands as one of Metro Atlanta's longest-running and most budget-friendly holiday light traditions. The scenic 1.5-mile drive through the wooded university campus features more than one million twinkling LED lights illuminating hillside displays, nativity scenes, holiday symbols, and the signature 65-foot-wide animated Santa and his flying reindeer soaring high above the campus lake, accompanied by a towering 60-foot tall illuminated Christmas tree that ranks among the largest in the Southeast. Visitors pay a single flat rate per vehicle, making it an extraordinarily accessible holiday outing for families of all sizes. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings, families can park at the festival midpoint to visit Santa Claus for photos, ride the miniature holiday train through illuminated grounds, enjoy pony rides, pet barnyard animals at the petting zoo, and grab warm funnel cakes, cocoa, and cider from local concession stands. No advance reservations are required; drivers simply pay at the campus gate.

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