Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
The holidays are all about cozy lights, chosen family, and finding ways to lift each other up. This season, four Atlanta traditions bring that spirit center stage, blending community, music, and a dash of Speedo-level boldness. From the naughty holiday spirit at Bad Santa and the sleek cocktail attire at Toy Party to the velvet harmonies of the AGMC, and the nearly-naked courage of the Speedo Run, these events all share a single mission: uplifting Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ community while spreading holiday cheer. Whether you want to give, sing, run—or simply raise a glass—there’s a way to take part and keep the season bright.
Bad Santa
Naughty Meets Nice
When you’ve had enough sugar-plum sweetness, there’s Bad Santa at Woofs Atlanta, the city’s beloved, friendly gay sports bar. This annual event invites guests to level up their festive thirst: think sexy Santas, cheeky elves, jockstraps under red velvet coats, and a crowd that knows how to toast the season. It’s a flirt-forward holiday hangout—equal parts nightlife, mischief, and community.
Beyond the naughty aesthetic, Bad Santa serves a purpose: the event supports PALS Atlanta this year, making your revelry more than just a night of handsome fun.
Date: December 4, 7 pm
Location: Woofs Atlanta
- A photo with Santa and naughty elves is a $25 donation
- Arrive early—this one fills up fast.
Santa Speedo Run
Bare Your Holiday Spirit
Part charity fundraiser, part bold social spectacle, the Santa Speedo Run turns Atlanta’s winter chill into blistering holiday energy. Participants slip into red Speedos (or equally festive barely-there attire) and jog a short route through Midtown—Santa hats, jingle bells, and confident queer spirit encouraged.
The event raises money for local charities, often benefiting groups focused on health and community needs. This year, the beneficiary is Joining Hearts also known for their nightlife fundraiser, including the spectacular pool party at the Piedmont Park Pool. The vibe is playful and body-positive: whether you’re running or cheering, it’s impossible not to feel the joy. There’s typically a post-run celebration with awards, photos, and drinks—because of course.
Date: December 6, 12-3 pm
Location: Politan Row at Colony Square
- Register to run here: atlantasantaspeedorun.org
- Donate to your favorite teams either at atlantasantaspeedorun.org or through givebutter.com/WyOe2i
- You can donate directly to Joining Hearts at joininghearts.org
AGMC Holiday Concerts
Voices That Warm the Season
Nothing says holiday magic like the harmonies of the Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus. Since 1981, the AGMC has been a cornerstone of queer cultural life—lifting spirits, amplifying LGBTQ+ visibility, and bringing large audiences together through music. Their seasonal concerts are a beloved tradition: think soaring arrangements, campy comedic moments, and a heartfelt message of unity.
The program typically blends holiday classics with new arrangements and a few surprise numbers that make the audience laugh, cry, and cheer in equal measure. Whether you’re bringing your partner, your chosen family, or a new date, an AGMC holiday show guarantees instant warmth.
Tickets at voicesofnote.org
Date: December 5 & 6
Location: Cathedral of St. Philip
- General Admission: $45
- VIP Admission: $85
Includes entrance to the catered Champagne reception one hour prior to show start and at intermission and reserved section seating
For The Kid In All Of Us Toy Party
Glamour Meets Generosity
Atlanta’s iconic Kid Toy Party is one of the city’s longest-running LGBTQ+ holiday charity events. Founded by For The Kid In All Of Us, the soirée brings together holiday glamour and philanthropy. Guests arrive chic and celebratory with one clear mission: Each guest must bring one new, unwrapped toy valued at $25 for entry to support local children and families in need.
Expect glamorous looks, DJs, cocktails, special performances (this year by out country star Ry Rivers) and a buzzy, joyful vibe that makes it feel more like an upscale holiday bash than a fundraiser—yet the impact is real. Hundreds of toys are distributed to nonprofits serving metro Atlanta.
Tickets at forthekid.org
Date: Sunday, December 7, 2025
Location: Southern Exchange Ballrooms, Atlanta, GA
- General Admission: $50 | 5:00–10:00 PM
Includes cocktails, food, and entertainment. - VIP Admission: $150 (single) / $275 (pair) | 5:00–10:00 PM
Includes early entry to the VIP Happy Hour (5:00-6:00 PM), premium cocktails, food, special photo booth experience, swag bag, and a meet & greet with Ry Rivers. - Each guest must bring one new, unwrapped toy valued at $25 for entry.