Longing for the Christmases of childhood? These Georgia holiday events offer comfort and joy

Across the state as communities prepare for holiday tree lighting ceremonies, concerts, art exhibitions, stage shows and more, a theme is emerging: nostalgia.

On a rooftop above the crowd at the annual tree lighting at Atlantic Station in Midtown Atlanta Saturday night, the countdown began.

“5 – 4 – 3 -2 -1,” thousands cheered.