Where is the festival located?
Gas South Convention Center
6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy
Duluth, GA 30097
(Find us on the lower level)
Where do I park?
For the best access to the Convention Center, park in Parking Deck 1. This deck has designated handicapped parking.
The daily parking rate is $5.00. The first two hours are free.
Is the facility ADA-compliant?
- Wheelchairs: Please bring your own; they are not available on-site.
- Elevators: Yes, available.
- Escalators: Yes, available.
How much are tickets?
- At the Door: $21.95
- Online: $18.95
Do you offer group rates?
Group rates are not available, but senior discounts are offered. Check out www.gafestivaloftrees.org/tickets for more information.
Can I re-enter the festival if I leave?
Yes. Upon entry, you will be given a wristband that allows you to come and go from the venue space. Parking does not allow re-entry, so if you leave the lot, you will have to pay to re-park.
Is there food available for purchase?
A food court with a variety of dining options is available.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Gas South is a cashless facility. No cash will be accepted. We accept Mastercard, Visa, Discover, and American Express.
Can I smoke at the Gas South Convention Center?
Gas South Smoking Policy: Gas South District is a non-smoking facility.
Smoking is not allowed in public areas of the facility, but there are designated smoking areas for patrons. Anyone observed smoking inside the facility will be asked to extinguish the item immediately. Any person who refuses to comply with the policy after an appropriate warning may be removed from the facility. Please check with the nearest event staff member if you cannot locate the designated smoking areas.
Electronic cigarettes are permitted through security for events but may not be used inside the building. E-cigarettes are allowed in designated smoking areas.
Do you accept vendors at the festival?
No. We do not currently accept vendors.
Why did the festival move to Duluth?
The Georgia Festival of Trees moved to the state-of-the-art Gas South Convention Center in 2024 to accommodate growing crowds and simplify the guest experience. With easy highway access, affordable parking, and excellent food options, this venue will create a more enjoyable experience for visitors.
What can I expect from the Pink Pig Experience?
The Pink Pig is a highlight of the 2024 Georgia Festival of Trees, and it’s better than ever with a modern twist! The updated Pink Pig Train is now a rail-less, open ride, offering a fresh and exciting trek through the festival. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation, making it a must-see attraction for both longtime fans and new visitors.
To make the experience even more special, you can purchase VIP (Very Important Piggy) tickets, which come with perks like access to a VIP line for faster entry and a special souvenir for every rider. This inaugural year of the new Pink Pig promises to be a magical addition to the festival.
What’s included in a Child Ticket?
Children’s tickets include all activities EXCEPT:
- The Pink Pig
- Sugar Cookie Decorating
- Photos with Santa
These additional items can be purchased on-site or through our ticketing system when you purchase your general admission tickets.
How do I book Santa Photos?
Santa photo sessions are available prior to checkout when purchasing Festival of Trees tickets.
Georgia Festival of Trees Ticketing FAQs
Welcome to the Georgia Festival of Trees! Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about ticketing. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us.
Is my ticket refundable?
Tickets are non-refundable. Can’t come on the day you planned? It’s okay! Your ticket is good for any day the festival is open. You can also share it with family or friends.
How do I buy VIP Pink Pig Tickets?
VIP Pink Pig Tickets can be pre-purchased when you book your festival ticket online. This option is available during checkout. After selecting your date and tickets, click Checkout, and you will be offered add-on options. VIP Pink Pig tickets include access to a VIP queue line, one ride on the Pink Pig, and a special gift. Don’t delay—there are a limited number of VIP passes sold each day.
How do I buy Gala Tickets?
The First Night Celebration Gala is a magical evening not to be missed. Enjoy exclusive access to our beautiful silent auction items before we open to the general public. You will also enjoy an exciting live auction, raffles, games, and more! First Night tickets can be purchased on our website. Visit the homepage at www.gafestivaloftrees.org and select First Night Gala to proceed with your ticket purchase.
How do I buy After Dark Tickets?
After Dark Tickets can be purchased by clicking After Dark on the homepage (www.gafestivaloftrees.org), or by visiting www.gafestivaloftrees.org/after-dark. When redirected to the ticketing page, be sure to select November 30th to purchase your After Dark ticket.
What if I lose my ticket?
If you lose your ticket, please contact our ticketing support team at [email protected] to have it reissued.
What if I can’t come on the day I picked?
Your ticket is good for any day the festival is open to the general public, November 23rd – December 1st. We are closed on November 27th and 28th for Thanksgiving.
Can I pre-purchase my cookie-decorating experience?
Yes! You can pre-purchase your cookie-decorating experience when you book your festival ticket online. This option is available during checkout. After selecting your date and tickets, click Checkout, and you will be offered all our add-on options.
How do I purchase Photos with Santa?
You can purchase a Santa photo session when you book your festival ticket online. This option is available during checkout. After selecting your date and tickets, click Checkout, and you will be offered all our add-on options. Once you complete your purchase, you will receive a link to the scheduling system to select your appointment.
Can I purchase a ticket at the door?
Yes, tickets are available at the door for $21.95. Purchasing online saves you time and money! Go to www.gafestivaloftrees.org/tickets.
How do I get Senior Day tickets?
Seniors aged 62 and over are eligible for one free ticket on Senior Day. Tickets are available online. Be sure to select Tuesday, November 26th, to choose the free Senior Day ticket. Senior Day tickets are provided by WellCare.
How do I get Special Needs Day tickets?
Individuals with special needs are eligible for one complimentary ticket plus an additional free ticket for a companion. Tickets are available online. Be sure to select Monday, November 25th, to choose the free Special Abilities Day ticket. Special Abilities Day tickets are provided by CareSource.
How do I get my American Legion Day Ticket?
Bring your American Legion ID to the festival on American Legion Day to receive free tickets for you and your family. The American Legion Day tickets are also available online at www.gafestivaloftrees.org/tickets. Scroll down to Saturday, November 30th, to select your American Legion Day tickets.
Is there a separate ticket for “After Dark”?
Yes, After Dark requires a separate ticket. These can be purchased on our website www.gafestivaloftrees.org/tickets. Select November 30th to get your After Dark tickets.
Is admission to the festival included with the “After Dark” ticket?
Yes, an After Dark ticket includes admission to the Festival on Saturday, November 30th, as well as the After Dark event. You may enjoy the Festival anytime during the day on November 30th.
What if I buy a ticket and then want to stay for After Dark?
If you purchase a Festival of Trees ticket for November 30th and want to stay for the After Dark party and show, you can purchase After Dark access through our ticketing agents. Please be aware that After Dark is an adults-only event featuring a comedy showcase, raffles, games, and more!
We hope this FAQ helps you plan your visit to the Georgia Festival of Trees. Enjoy the festivities.
How do I register?
To register as a volunteer, go to gafestivaloftrees.org/volunteer and fill out the quick form. You will be immediately directed to our volunteer portal, Bloomerang, where you can view volunteer opportunities and register as a volunteer in our organization. This process takes about 5–8 minutes and is a crucial part of the registration process.
How do I select my shifts?
Once you are registered in our Volunteer Portal, you can sign up for any shift that appeals to you. Our system is intuitive and only offers volunteer opportunities based on your interests and abilities. If you get lost in the system, you can find available options by clicking the orange search icon in the upper left-hand corner of the page. After selecting an opportunity, you will be guided to choose a shift that works best for you. For additional help, visit our website: gafestivaloftrees.org/volunteers.
How many shifts can I work?
There are no limits to the number of shifts a volunteer can work. We recommend signing up only for shifts you are committed to covering so we don’t end up short-staffed. However, we understand that life happens. If for any reason you cannot fulfill your commitment, please notify us by emailing [email protected].
Will I receive tickets for the event?
All volunteers will receive two complimentary general admission tickets, valued at nearly $36. These can be used or shared by the volunteer. Please ensure that you are registered in our portal, as we will use our list of registered volunteers to determine the ticket count. You will receive a special redemption code the week before the festival, allowing you to claim your tickets. We appreciate your generous service and hope you enjoy the festival with your family and friends.
Where is the festival located?
The Georgia Festival of Trees will be held at the Gas South Convention Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth. We will be utilizing all of the exhibit halls on the lower level of the Convention Center.
How long is a shift?
Most shifts at the Georgia Festival of Trees are 4.5 hours long. However, on set-up days (Wednesday, November 20th, and Thursday, November 21st) and tear-down days (Sunday, November 30th, and Monday, December 1st), shifts are 5 hours long.
Where do I park?
We suggest that volunteers and guests park in the Convention Center parking deck. Use entrance #1 to be closest to the building entrance.
How much is parking?
Parking is $5 per day. There is no re-entry—if you leave and return, you’ll need to pay again.
What should I do if I cannot complete my shift?
If you are unable to complete your shift, please notify your shift supervisor immediately using the Bloomerang app. If the app is unavailable, log into the portal and remove your name from the shift by going to the blue “My Shifts” tab and selecting the option to remove yourself from the shift.
What is the dress code for volunteers?
We ask volunteers to wear dark-colored pants or a skirt (no blue jeans) and a red, green, or white shirt. You will receive a Georgia Festival of Trees apron and a nametag button upon arrival, both of which you need to wear during your shift for easy identification. If you return to volunteer on another day, please leave your apron with us for retrieval when you come back. After you finish volunteering, the apron and nametag button are yours to keep.
Will there be training for volunteers?
When you arrive at your assigned volunteer station, your supervisor will provide all the information you need to perform your assigned job.
Are snacks provided for volunteers, or can I bring food?
We will provide limited coffee and donuts in the morning, along with bottled water throughout the day. You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks, but please note that there is no storage space, refrigerator, or microwave available for volunteer use. A food court is located on the lower level of the Convention Center, where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and meals. There are also numerous restaurants nearby in the Gas South District.
1. Is there a place to change?
Yes, there is a locker room and two dressing rooms available.
2. Is there a place to secure personal items?
No, personal items are the responsibility of each individual.
3. Is there a place to load/unload equipment?
Yes, performers needing access to the loading dock should contact Rodney Daniel at [email protected].
4. What is the arrival time for performers?
Performers should arrive 90 minutes prior to their performance.
5. How many tickets will the Teacher/Leader receive?
Each group leader or teacher receives one ticket.
6. How many tickets will performers receive?
Each performer receives one ticket plus one companion ticket; any additional family members will need to purchase tickets.
7. Is there a place for performers to change and rehearse?
Unfortunately, rehearsal space is not available due to limited venue space.
8. What is the stage made of?
The stage is made of polypropylene.
9. Where will performers and guests enter the festival?
Performers and guests will enter through the main ticketing area, and Entertainment Check-In will be in the far-right corner near the stage.
10. Where is the check-in area for performers?
Entertainment Check-In is located in the far-right corner near the stage. Please follow instruction provided during check-in to ensure our schedule runs on time.
11. How much time do performers have?
- Singers: 15 minutes
- Choirs, dancers, and school groups: 30 minutes
12. Will performers arriving late still be able to perform?
Unfortunately, the festival cannot accommodate late arrivals.
13. Are teachers/leaders and performers required to sign a waiver?
Yes, waivers are required for all teachers/leaders and performers. Tickets will not be released to the group until all waivers are signed.
14. When will teachers/leaders and performers receive their tickets?
Once all waivers for the group are received, the leader/teacher will receive tickets and dispersal information via email. Each performer, companion, and teacher/leader must have an individual ticket.
What is the difference between a large and small tree?
Large trees range from 6 to 9 feet in height, while small trees are often between 3 to 6 feet tall. Please choose the donation that best suits your ability to decorate it on decorating day.
What does it cost to donate a tree to the festival?
There is no cost to donate a tree. We encourage donors to creatively decorate their trees to attract the highest bids, which supports our cause and charity partners.
When is decorating day?
Decorating Days are on Wednesday, November 20, 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., and Thursday, November 21, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where is the festival located?
The festival will be held at the Gas South Convention Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, GA 30097. Directions for decorating day drop-off and other details will be provided to all donors in November.
Can I use glass ornaments?
For safety reasons, we recommend using shatterproof or non-breakable ornaments. If glass ornaments are used, they must be disclosed to auction staff to ensure proper handling during delivery. Please help us deliver your tree in excellent condition by showing our auction volunteers your fragile decorations before leaving on decorating day.
Can I pre-decorate my tree at home and bring it fully assembled?
Due to transportation challenges, we ask that large trees not be fully decorated beforehand. Trees should be assembled and decorated on-site during the designated decorating day. We will reinforce your tree trunk to ensure it is stable enough to move to its new home. Moving the tree without the reinforcement can lead to devastating damage.
Small trees can be decorated at home and brought fully assembled if the tree sections are secured so they do not separate. Please refer to the decorating guidelines for these instructions.
I can’t make it during decorating day times. Can I bring it another time?
Because of the complex nature of executing an auction of this size, we cannot accept late items. Please contact your auction coordinator to assess other options.
What does Suggested Retail Value mean?
The Suggested Retail Value (SRV) is an estimate of the price your donated item would sell for in a retail setting. This information helps bidders understand the value of your donation. Please watch this video for additional details on estimating the suggested retail value of your auction donation.
Can I donate a gift certificate or other items with my tree, wreath, or centerpiece?
Yes, additional donations, such as gift certificates or other items, are welcome and will add value to your auction contribution. Any items included in the tree or wreath space will be sold with the auction item.
Who do I contact with questions?
For any additional inquiries, please contact our Pre-festival Auction Team at [email protected].
What is the cause this auction supports?
Proceeds from the auction go to Street Grace and Atlanta Redemption Ink, local organizations working to eradicate the sexual exploitation of women and children in Georgia and beyond. Funds provided directly impact individuals in our local communities.
How many tree spaces are available?
We have a limited number of tree spaces available. We recommend early registration to ensure your spot.
How are tree spaces assigned?
Tree spaces are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, balanced with spatial and design considerations for the festival.
What happens if my tree does not sell?
Any auction items not sold during the event will be donated to local charities or families in need. The Georgia Festival of Trees has never had an auction item remain unsold. We are grateful to all who continue to support this important cause.
How do you determine the opening bid?
The opening bid for each item is set by our auction committee, which considers the fair market value, uniqueness, and potential interest from buyers. This decision is based on historical data, current market conditions, and the overall presentation of the auction item.
Will someone help me unload my supplies at the Gas South Convention Center?
Yes, we will have volunteers to assist you with unloading your supplies on the designated drop-off days. You will receive detailed instructions in the weeks leading up to the festival.
If I’m just dropping off a wreath or centerpiece, do I have to pay to park?
No, we will have a drop-off area for wreaths, centerpieces, and nativity donations, saving time and parking fees. Please remember that we must have all the required information for your donation in our system before you can drop it off. If this information is missing, you will be asked to park and come inside to provide the missing info. Please contact your auction representative if you have questions about providing your auction item information.
How many people can come to help me decorate my tree?
We do not have a limit on the number of people who can help decorate a tree. Working with friends and family is one of the best parts of giving to the Festival of Trees. As a reminder, no children under 12 are allowed on decorating day.
Where do I park?
Parking is available at the Gas South Convention Center in Parking Deck 1, for just $5.00/day. Look for signs directing you to the Convention Center designated parking area. Our volunteer team will ensure you have directions to the parking deck once you complete drop-off.
Can my business name be on the tree?
Please refrain from placing your business name on your tree/wreath or other donations. However, your business name can be included on items around your tree/wreath and on your official auction card. Tree decorations should be free of logos or business names.
Do I bring my own ladder, etc., on decorating day?
We recommend bringing any necessary tools and equipment, such as ladders, scissors, and other decorating supplies, as these are not provided at the venue.
Does the tree have to be pre-lit?
Trees are not required to be pre-lit. However, if you wish to include light strands or other types of lighting on your tree, they must adhere to safety standards and be in good working order. Please do not string more than five strands of lights together. Remember to bring any cords or power strips you need if you are self-lighting your tree.
Can I pick any theme—what’s off-limits?
We love creativity! You are welcome to choose any theme for your tree if it’s family-friendly and doesn’t contain controversial or offensive material (i.e. weapons, political statements, drugs, etc.).
Benefits for Donors
- Recognition: Your name and/or business name will be prominently displayed on your auction item.
- Program Acknowledgment: We’ll include your name or business in our festival program.
- Online Visibility: Receive recognition on our website and social media platforms.
- Complimentary Tickets: Enjoy ten free tickets to the festival – share with friends, family, or colleagues.
How large can my gingerbread creation be?
Your gingerbread creation must be constructed on a 1/2” or 3/4” plywood base that does not exceed 18”x18”. The height of the structure cannot exceed 24 inches, and the total weight must not exceed 50 pounds.
Can I use glue?
Yes, glue is permitted to hold your gingerbread structure together due to the environmental conditions in the display area. Royal icing can be used to cover the glue for aesthetic purposes.
Can I use non-food items?
Yes, you are permitted to use up to 20% mechanically produced components, such as 3D-printed or laser-cut elements, but 80% of your entry must be handcrafted. However, no artificial structural materials like Styrofoam are allowed. The rest of the creation, aside from glue and lights, must be 100% edible.
When can I drop off my gingerbread?
You can drop off your gingerbread entry at the Georgia Festival of Trees venue during the following designated times:
- Wednesday, November 20, 2024: 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Thursday, November 21, 2024: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
All entries must be delivered and fully set up before 8:00 p.m. on November 21, 2024.
What is the drop-off procedure?
A clear drop-off process will be communicated via email by Wednesday, November 7, 2024. If you do not receive this information by that date, you should email [email protected].
Can I choose where and how my gingerbread is displayed?
No, participants are not allowed to choose where and how their gingerbread creation is displayed. Entries must be brought to the Georgia Festival of Trees venue (Gas South Convention Center), where they will be set up in a designated display area.
Can I use lights?
Yes, you can use lights inside or outside your gingerbread structure. If you use lights, you must include replacement bulbs, fuses, and batteries. Due to staffing constraints, we may not be able to change the light bulbs immediately.
When will I know if I won?
Winners for Best in Show and Most Creative will be announced at the First Night Celebration Gala on Friday, November 22 and posted on social media and the Georgia Festival of Trees website. People’s Choice winners will be announced on Saturday, November 30 via social media and the website.
If I win, what will I receive?
Winners will receive a ribbon, which will be displayed on their creation during the festival. The ribbon will be mailed to winners after the festival ends on December 1, 2024. Winners will also have bragging rights for the next year.
What will happen to my gingerbread creation at the end of the festival?
You can either choose to donate your gingerbread house to a local skilled nursing facility or pick it up on Sunday, December 1 after 4:00 PM or on Monday, December 2 between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Any houses not picked up by these times will be either donated or disposed of.
When can I bring my creation to the festival?
You can drop off your creation at the Gas South Convention Center on:
- Wednesday, November 20, 2024: 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Thursday, November 21, 2024: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
What are the drop off procedures?
- Bring your creation in person to the Gas South Convention Center at the designated display area. Park in the Deck 1 parking deck and enter the facility through the main doors. The festival is located in the exhibit halls on the lower floor.
- You must unpack and set up your creation on-site.
- Creations should be fully constructed ahead of time, with no more than 15 minutes allowed for re-attaching parts loosened during transport or connecting large sections.
- Follow volunteer instructions for where to place your creation.
How long will I have to set up my LEGO creation?
You will have 15 minutes for final assembly/setup on-site.
When will the judging take place?
Judging will take place on Friday, November 22, 2024.
When will I know if I won?
The winners will be announced by 8:00 p.m. on Friday, November 22, 2024, online via social media and the Georgia Festival of Trees website.
If I win, what will I receive?
Winners will receive cash prizes and certificates for the top 3 in each division. You may pick up your prize and certificate any day during the festival or when you retrieve your creation. Please visit the Festival Business Office on the upper floor to retrieve these items.
How big can my creation be?
Your creation must be:
- Base size: Between 5″ x 5″ (16 x 16 studs) and 20-1/4″ x 20-1/4″ (64 x 64 studs).
- Height: No taller than 36 inches (95 bricks).
- The remaining portions of your creation may not exceed a length or width of 20-1/4 inches (64 studs).
Can I use any part of a LEGO set?
Yes, but entries must be original creations. You can use parts and minifigures from individual or multiple LEGO sets, but they must be assembled in your own way. Builds based on official set instructions or custom instructions found online are not allowed.
Can I use non-brick parts or pieces?
You cannot use non-LEGO craft materials like felt, cotton balls, construction paper, or clay. The only exception is string, thread, or thin fishing line if it serves a functional purpose (e.g., as a cable for a ski lift) are not allowed.
What will my creation be judged on?
Judging will be based on the following criteria:
- 25% – Originality/Creativity: How unique, clever, and imaginative the creation is.
- 25% – Presentation/Aesthetics: The colors, shapes, patterns, and overall visual appeal.
- 25% – Construction Skill: Advanced building techniques and creative use of elements.
- 25% – Contest Theme: How well the creation reflects the Christmas or winter theme.
When can I pick up my LEGOs?
You can pick up your creation on:
- Sunday, December 1, 2024: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Monday, December 2, 2024: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
What happens if I can’t pick up my LEGOs?
If you cannot pick up your creation by the designated times, it will be considered a permanent donation to the Georgia Festival of Trees’ LEGO collection.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
Cisco Sanchez – [email protected]
Purchasing Santa Photos
- Select Tickets: Choose your Festival day and time, then click check-out to add Santa Photos and other extras.
- Reserve Time: After purchase, you’ll receive a link to schedule your photo session with Santa.
Session Details
- Time with Santa: Each family gets about 4 minutes, which is designed to be just the right amount for a special moment.
Ticket Availability
- On-Site Purchase: If available, you can buy Santa photo tickets at the Festival.
Refund Policy
- Non-Refundable: Santa Photos are non-refundable, but you can transfer your purchase to someone else if needed.
Purpose of Payment
- Supporting Charities: The cost helps cover the professional Santa’s fees, allowing more funds to go to charities fighting human trafficking.
Receiving Your Photos
- Accessing Photos: You’ll get an email link to your photos.
- Delivery Time: Expect the link within 60 minutes of your session, ideally allowing you to view them before leaving the Festival.
