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 $10.00.
Is the facility ADA-compliant?
- Wheelchairs: Please bring your own; they are not available on-site.
- Elevators: Yes, available.
- Escalators: Yes, available.
Will you have motorized scooters available?
Yes. We will have a few motorized scooters available for a $25.00 fee on a first-come, first-served basis. You can access them through our guest services area on lower level of the Convention Center. We want to thank Mobility City in Lawrenceville for their generous support. For more information, please contact Mobility City at (470) 291-5337 to learn more about their amazing products and services.
How much are tickets?
- At the Door: $22.95
- Online: $19.95
Do you offer group rates?
We do not offer group rates, but discounted tickets for senior citizens 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 park again.
Is there food available for purchase?
A food court with a variety of dining options is available inside the convention center. We will also have a snack bar available in the exhibit hall.
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 as well as tap to pay.
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 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 a VIP line for faster entry.
What’s included in a Child Ticket?
Children’s tickets include all activities EXCEPT:
- The Pink Pig
- Sugar Cookie Decorating
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?
NEW for 2025 — visit with Santa and take photos for FREE!!! Bring your own camera. We’ll have volunteers available to snap photos of your entire group with your camera.
-
Ride The Pink Pig*
- Take FREE photos w/Santa
- See Buddy the Elf (1/22, 2:00 – 4:00 only)
- Decorate a holiday cookie
- Play reindeer games
- Create a LEGO masterpiece
- Watch (nonstop) live entertainment
- Hug the Coca-Cola Polar Bear (11/25 only)
- Ride The Pink Pig again
- Snap fun pics at the Selfie Stations
- Complete the Scavenger Hunt for a fun Surprise
- Dance, play, and win with us at the Christmas in Paradise Kickoff Party! (11/22 – 6:30 PM – 21+)
- Meet Mr. Meter
- Wander through the forest of trees
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Make an ornament to take home
- Bid and win a Christmas tree
- Zip around the Elf Academy
- Ride The Pink Pig again
- Laugh your socks off at After Dark (11/29 – 6:30 PM – 21+)
- Find gifts for your parents at Santa’s Workshop
- Participate in cool LEGO activities: Building Challenges, LEGO Car Races & more
- Hit reset in the Parent Relaxation Station
- Give Penny and Porter big hugs
- Have a dance party with Waffles the Elf
- Ride The Pink Pig one last time
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Go home happy with visions of sugar plums dancing in your head, knowing that after all the fun, it was also all for good in support of our mission
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 and one ride on the Pink Pig, Don’t delay—there are a limited number of VIP passes sold each day.
How do I buy Christmas Kickoff Tickets?
NEW FOR 2025 – Our Christmas Kickoff is a magical evening not to be missed. Our theme this year is ‘Christmas in Paradise’ — highlighted by entertainment from A1A, Jimmy Buffet tribute band, food stations and a cash bar. You will also enjoy exciting raffles, games, and more as you experience all the Festival has to offer. Christmas Kickoff tickets can purchased on our website. Visit the homepage at www.gafestivaloftrees.org and select Christmas Kickoff 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 29th to purchase your After Dark ticket.
What if I lose my ticket?
If you can’t find your ticket, don’t worry, we can look up purchases by phone number or email. Please contact our ticketing support team at [email protected] for assistance.
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 22 – November 30. We are closed on November 26 and 27 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?
NEW FOR 2025 – visit and take photos with Santa at no additional cost. We’ll have volunteers available to take photos of your entire group with your camera.
Can I purchase a ticket at the door?
Yes, tickets are available at the door for $22.95. 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 25, to choose the free Senior Day ticket (62+ only)
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 24, to choose the free Special Abilities Day ticket.
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 29 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 29.
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. Once our new volunteer portal is ready in September, we’ll contact you to let you know it’s time to choose your volunteer opportunity.
How do I select my shifts?
You can view all open volunteer shifts in our volunteer portal without registering. Once you find the prefect shift(s) for you, you’ll be prompted to register in order to sign up for shifts. 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 one complimentary general admission tickets, valued at nearly $22. 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 and tear-down days shifts are longer.
Where do I park?
We suggest that volunteers and guests park in parking deck #1 at Gas South District. This is the closest parking to the Convention Center.
How much is parking?
Parking is $10 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 through the volunteer portal.
What is the dress code for volunteers?
We ask volunteers to wear dark-colored pants or a skirt 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?
Unfortunately, we are not able to provide snacks for volunteers. Also, please note that Gas South Convention Center does not allow outside food to be brought in. A food court located on the lower level of the Convention Center will be open during Festival days as well as limited availability (meal times) during set-up and tear-down days, where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and meals. There are also numerous restaurants nearby in the Gas South District. Volunteers who serve two consecutive shifts on a given day will receive a meal voucher for the food court.
1. Is there a place to change?
Yes, dressing rooms will be 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 their assigned entertainment coordinator to make arrangements directly with them, or email [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. Performance date/time and 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 5.5 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 19, 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., and Thursday, November 20, 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. NEW FOR 2025 — glass ornaments are NO LONGER ALLOWED on large trees but can still be used on small trees & wreaths. 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.
