Holiday Traditions at Lake Oconee
October 13, 2025
Holidays at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee
- Ice Skating: Step into The Winter Forest, where adventures and memories await. Guests can glide across the 5,000 square-foot ice rink, holding hands and laughing as they take in views of Lake Oconee. Find respite in the Ice Lounge with plush sofas, creative drinks, and twinkle lights. They will be serving up warm classics such as hot cocoa, apple cider, and hot toddies. Creative cocktails will also make an appearance, adding a festive twist to your evening. Ice skating begins on November 26th. The Winter Forest will be open daily from 10 am to 2 pm and 4 to 8 pm.
- Gingerbread Cottage: Pastry Chef Michael Gaddy and his team present a life-sized Gingerbread Cottage in the lobby, adorned with thousands of candy pieces. Step inside for a closer look and capture magical holiday memories with festive photos.
- Gingerbread House Decorating: Get in the holiday spirit with Mrs. Claus and her merry elves as you build your very own Gingerbread House. Everything you need will be provided, from the pre-built house to an assortment of candy and icing. You will even receive a box to take your masterpiece home. Indulge in cookies, hot chocolate, and apple cider as you create delightful memories.
Dates: December 13, 20, and 21Time: 1pm
- Build a Buddy: Build your “beary” own holiday friend you will love for a lifetime. Traditional and festive bears available for all ages.
Dates: December 13, 20, and 21
Time: 10am
- Breakfast with Santa: Kids will love Breakfast with Santa, where they can share their wish lists while enjoying a festive breakfast buffet featuring pancakes, waffles, omelets, and more. Come dressed in holiday attire for this special occasion!
Dates: November 29, December 13, 20, and 21Time: 8:30am and 11am
- Elf Tuck-Ins: Receive a special visit from Santa’s Elves and hear a bedtime story from them as they deliver a personalized bag filled with hand selected items from Santa.
Dates: December 13, 20, and 21
Time: 6-8:30pm
- Elf Special Delivery: Create some magic while you are away by having Santa’s Elves drop off a special surprise in your guestroom to be found upon your return. Children will receive a book from Santa, holiday trinkets, and an assortment of sweet treats.
Dates: December 13, 20, and 21
Time: 3-5pm
- Story Time with Mrs. Claus: Experience the enchantment of the season as the most beloved storyteller fills little hearts with timeless Christmas tales all through the holidays.
Dates: December 13, 20, and 21
Time: 12pm
Gift Shopping at Lake Oconee
- Genuine Georgia: Pick up unique, handcrafted items from local artisans, perfect for one-of-a-kind gifts.
- Bend the Trend: Offering sleek, modern designs perfect for your holiday shopping, helping you find unique, luxury pieces for your home this Christmas season.
- Greensboro Jewelers: Find the perfect piece of jewelry for your someone special.
- J H McCommons Co: Offering a wide variety of gifts for just about anyone, including those hard-to-find items. From handbags to home decor and jewelry, they offer specialty items you won’t find anywhere else.
- Soiree at the Lake: Your one-stop shop for Christmas gifts, home décor, stylish women’s clothing, and more!
- Empire South: Nestled in Parkside Commons in Greensboro, Empire South is a boutique destination for men’s and women’s clothing, accessories, and gifts with a Southern twist.
- Greensboro Antique Mall: If you’re hunting for unique gifts or just want to soak up small-town charm this holiday season, Greensboro Antique Mall is a must-stop on Main Street. Housed in the historic “Big Store” building (built in 1860), this 11,000-sq-ft mall features over 50 dealers offering everything from vintage treasures and home décor to quirky collectibles and one-of-a-kind finds.
- Lake Country Books & Gifts: For book-lovers and gift-seekers alike, this is a hidden gem you don’t want to miss this season. Located at Harmony Crossing, this cozy independent shop offers a thoughtfully curated selection of books across genres alongside journals, mugs, faith-based gifts, children’s goodies, and more.
Holiday Events Around Town
- Downtown Greensboro Tree Lighting: Join Downtown Greensboro for the Lighting of the Tree. Enjoy a festive evening filled with live performances, amazing children’s activities, delicious food vendors, and some late-night shopping. Grab free hot chocolate, roast s’mores, and gather in front of Festival Hall as they light up our big tree and kick off the holiday season!
Date: December 5Time: 6pm-8pm
- Greene County Historical Society Tour of Homes: Step back in time this holiday season! Join us for the Greene County Historical Tour, presented by the Greene County Historical Society. Explore the rich history and festive charm of Downtown Greensboro and White Plains as beautifully decorated homes and landmarks open their doors.
Date: December 13Time: 10am-4pm
- Holiday Show with Joe Gransden’s Little Big Band: Celebrate the season in style, Festival Hall welcomes back Joe Gransden’s Little Big Band for a special holiday show. Enjoy high-energy swing, festive classics, and big band brilliance in Downtown Greensboro. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the holidays and 15 years of unforgettable performances at Festival Hall!
Date: December 18Time: 7:30pm-9:30pm
- Fa-La-La: Tony Award-winning conductor and OPAS favorite Stuart Malina returns to ring in the holiday season with The OPAS Philharmonic for this highly anticipated celebration. This year, he’s joined by powerhouse vocalist Shayna Steele, who stepped into the spotlight 15 years ago after singing backup for stars like Bette Midler and Kelly Clarkson. With Malina and the Philharmonic, Shayna brings her soul-stirring voice and commanding stage presence to make this holiday concert a heartwarming and unforgettable experience.
Date: December 12Time: 7:30pm-9:30pm
Eat, Drink and Be Merry
- Coffee and Pastries at PJ’s Coffee: Sip on seasonal favorites like peppermint mochas, spiced lattes, and rich hot chocolate after a day of shopping.
- Dinner at Table at the Lake: Enjoy exceptional dishes featuring local produce, seafood, and inviting flavors. Ask for expert wine pairings to complement your holiday dining experience.
- The Yesterday Cafe: Stop by the cafe located in Downtown Greensboro for a dose of small-town charm. Order a whole buttermilk pie to take home for the holidays.