Decatur, GA December 2025

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD TREE SERVICE.

Tree Care Tips

• Check for Hazardous Trees: Winter storms can bring down weak trees or limbs. Inspect for dead branches, leaning trunks, or decay. Call an arborist if unsure.

• Prune for Safety & Health: Late winter pruning strengthens trees and prevents disease. Remove weak or overgrown branches to promote healthy spring growth.

• Mulch & Protect Roots: Add mulch around the base (but not against the trunk) to insulate roots, retain moisture, and prevent soil erosion.

• Plan for Spring Planting: Now is the time to choose native trees and schedule early spring planting for the best start.

• Watch for Pests & Disease: Even in winter, pests and fungal infections can threaten trees. Look for holes, sap oozing, or discolored leaves. Early action can save a tree!

Your source for

Holiday Events: Shopping Parties! See our instagram @kudzuantiques Santa is coming: Saturday, December 13 11:30am - 1:30pm & Saturday, December 20 12:00pm - 2:00pm

The Giving Issue

As 2025 draws to a close, we celebrate a city where creativity, kindness, and community spirit thrive year after year. Amid so much change in the world, our city remains a place where people come together, share stories, and turn everyday moments into meaningful change.

Our city sure knows how to make the season magical, and every December, Decatur seems to sparkle a little brighter. Behind that Decatur holiday magic is pure collaboration. From neighbors, businesses, and city departments, there is a team of people working hand in hand to create festive moments that bring holiday cheer. Whether it’s lighting the menorah, gathering around the tree on the square, or roasting marshmallows at the annual Bonfire, these shared experiences remind us of the novelty of our town.

In this month’s Giving Issue, we shine a light on that spirit of generosity that defines Decatur. You’ll meet the volunteers behind A Season of Giving, who for more than three decades have made the holidays brighter for hundreds of local families and seniors. You’ll see how a neighborhood book swap has grown into a cherished tradition of connection and laughter. And who could forget the most delicious part of the holiday. La Chiquiada is lighting things up for its second annual Christmas Cantina .

Looking back on this past year, I’m filled with gratitude for the stories we’ve shared in these pages — stories that prove local connection is still what matters most. Decatur’s small businesses, artists, nonprofits, and residents continue to remind us that supporting one another is the foundation of who we are.

As we step into a new year and the next chapter of this millennium, may we carry that giving spirit with us into our neighborhoods, our workplaces, and our daily lives. Here’s to a joyful close to 2025, and to all the reasons we continue to love and celebrate our city.

Wishing you a magical holiday season,

CAROLINE FICKEN, PUBLISHER @DECATURCITYLIFESTYLE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Caroline Ficken | caroline.ficken@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Natalie Fox | natalie.fox@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Grace Boudreau | grace.boudreau@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Caroline Ficken, Natalie Fox, Brandon Malcolm

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rebecca Burns, Caroline Ficken, John Wachs

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

Proverbs 3:5-6

December Events

THURSDAY 4 Tree Lighting Downtown Decatur 6 pm | THURSDAY

Bonfire + Marshmallow Roast East Court Square, Downtown Decatur 6 pm | FREE!

Menorah Lighting Downtown Decatur 4:30 pm | FREE!

THURSDAY

Around Downtown Decatur 6-8 pm | FREE! SUNDAY

Screen on the Green: Happy Feet Ebster Recreation Center, 105 Electric Ave. 6 pm | FREE!

inside the issue

Decatur Makes Holiday Magic

Cheers To The Holidays

city scene

Looking back on 2025! 1: The City of Decatur Announces Decatur WatchFest26 in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 2: ‘Not Your Mother’s Menopause Talk’ with Amy Robbins, Karen Riggs, Beth Kemper, & Dr. Taniqua Miller at The Book Bird. 3: In April, the City of Decatur broke ground on the Square’s transformation project. 4: Decatur FC dominates in its second season. 5: The Madison Avenue Derby celebrated its 14th year. 6: Brick Store Pub hosts its 29th annual Oktoberfest. 7: Sati Yoga celebrates its first graduates of the Sati Yoga & Wellness Yoga Teacher Training.

Whether you’re reimagining a bedroom or ready to update the entire

Scheule your FREE estimate today!

Happy Painting

For Decatur Parents, Professionals, and People on the Go!

Our self-serve Dry Cleaning Kiosk in Downtown Decatur is open daily from 6:30am to 10:00pm, including holidays, so you can drop off or pick up on your time Need help? Our friendly attendant is available 11am – 5pm Monday through Friday and 1pm – 4pm on Saturdays

Mention Decatur City Lifestyle Magazine for 25% off your first order!

Festive Finds at Decatur Package Store

Decatur Package Store is making holiday gifting easy this year! From clever stocking stuffers to unique little finds perfect for teachers, white elephant exchanges, and Secret Santa surprises, you’ll discover something for everyone on your list. Stop by and shop local for gifts that bring cheer— and maybe pick up something festive for yourself, too!

Unwrap 30% Off Pure Barre Classes

This December, Pure Barre Decatur is making it easier than ever to jumpstart your fitness journey! Mention "Decatur City Lifestyle Magazine" and enjoy 30% off your first month of Unlimited classes and experience a full-body workout that strengthens, lengthens, and tones. Whether you’re new to barre or a seasoned pro, our expert instructors will guide you in a supportive, energizing environment. Don’t miss this chance to move, feel strong, and join our welcoming community.

CertaPro Painters of Atlanta & Decatur Celebrates 25 Years this December

December marks the beginning of CertaPro Painters of Atlanta & Decatur's 25th year in business. From humble beginnings in a spare bedroom in a Kirkwood bungalow in 2001, to tackling high-rise building projects, our community has provided rich support. They are kicking off their 25th year with a “Thank You” offering to those who have supported us throughout the years. Schedule an estimate online at CertaPro.com or call 404-377-1867. Discount code: AnniversaryThankYou.

Decatur takes its reputation as a holiday season magic maker seriously. Our city collaborates across departments to deliver events filled with good tidings, holiday cheer, and hot chocolate to savour. I sat down with three City of Decatur powerhouses: Victoria Cohen, Business Development Manager; Jackie Moore, Special Events Coordinator; and Sherry Jackman, Director of Tourism, to get the scoop on how our city turns into a veritable winter wonderland.

DE C ATUR MAKESHOLIDAYMAGIC

OUR CITY ENSURES YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON WILL BE MERRY, BRIGHT, AND UTTERLY MAGICAL WITH A SLEW OF FAMILY-FRIENDLY EXPERIENCES CRAFTED TO FORM CORE MEMORIES.

ARTICLE BY NATALIE FOX | PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA BURNS

Annual Tree Lighting

The Tree Lighting on the first Thursday in December epitomizes the Christmas spirit with community caroling, gingerbread cookies from Butter & Cream, and a seemingly unending supply of steaming hot chocolate passed out by the Decatur Youth Council. The choir from Fifth Avenue Upper Elementary serenades everyone with their adorably angelic voices. Justin Calusi from Little Shop of Stories serves as Master of Ceremonies starting at 6 pm, bantering back and forth with Santa Claus to the delight of the crowd. The tree is lit at 7 pm in the square (following a climactic countdown) by a lever crafted by Decatur Makers, pulled by Santa, as neighbors sing holiday favorites with provided sheet music. Victoria recalls her experience last year with her daughter, who was four at the time, with “her little cheeks sticking out of her hat and hood, just sipping on the hot chocolate.” She describes the awe in her eyes as she watched the snow machine’s snowflakes billow through the air while Santa worked through the blissful mob, escorted by the Fire Marshal. It isn’t every day that there are purely joyful community events, and this is one of them, overflowing with sweetness and good spirits.

Make magical memories this year on Thursday, December 4th, at 6 pm by the Historic DeKalb Courthouse.

Pictures with Pets

If you’re looking for a way to loop your fur babies into the holiday spirit, there’s a perfect annual tradition right here in Decatur. Pictures with Pets, a two-hour photo opportunity, returns for its third year as one of our city’s most beloved events for our most beloved creatures. Dogs, cats, and even reptiles intermingle for possibly the cutest photoshoot all year long. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus attend, giving your sweet pets a chance to pose with the rest of the family or soak in the spotlight. Due to the square’s ongoing construction, this experience will take place at Harmony Park in Oakhurst in collaboration with Taj Ma Hound and Oakview Coffee. There will be holiday shopping opportunities too, as Krista Aversano of Taj Ma Hound shared, “We’ll have our K9 Cookie Training Treats as well as gifts for pups on sale. They make great stocking stuffers and presents for all your dog-loving puppy parents.” Oakview Coffee offers complimentary hot cocoa, and, “because every good pup deserves a treat, we’ve got a free Pup Cup waiting too!” This year we are also partnering with Dr. Chris Simmons, Simmons Veterinary, who will be sharing a little free gift and will be there in person to give people the chance to bring their little questions to him during “ask-a-vet”. Feel free to reach out to Chris if needed. simmonsveterinary@gmail.com; 561-329-5886

Photo by: Caroline Ficken

Decatur's 2025 Ornament

The annual Decatur Ornament is an excellent way to spotlight independent artists and local businesses. The Decatur Arts Alliance locates artists for submission, with the opportunity to craft an original collector’s item depicting the best version of a Decatur holiday season. Last year’s ornament, created by Decatur Glassblowing, was a stunning globe that utilized the colors of the City of Decatur logo. This year’s winning ornament (a stunning gingerbread man) was crafted by Maggie Cruz, an independent artist hailing from California. Each year’s ornament is sold at various local retailers for a limited run. It’s not a revenue-generating item; they’re sold at cost, and the initiative is meant as a purely fun way to commemorate the holidays while supporting local businesses. During the last week of December, if any are left, they can be purchased at the Decatur Visitor’s Center as a courtesy. The city really encourages buyers to pick them up at the local shops, and hopefully, you’ll find other holiday gifts while you’re there. They make a wonderful keepsake for any Decatur resident, and it’s a lovely way to build out your decoration collection.

Find the Decatur 2025 ornament around town for purchase!

CONTINUED >

Small Business Saturday

We live in an era where it’s all too easy to scroll on our screens and click to make a purchase. While convenience is often a necessity, holiday shopping in person is a delightful way to romanticize the season while supporting local commerce. Decatur takes it up a notch, sprinkling magic all over a sometimes overwhelming task. Small Business Saturday is the ideal start to the holiday season, and it sets the tone for our shopping choices throughout December and beyond.  This nationally-recognized holiday is celebrated with aplomb here in our twinkling downtown, where Christmas music plays and locally-bought gifts are wrapped for free, and fun for the whole family abounds. Taking place on the Saturday after Thanksgiving every year, it’s much more than a single day in November. Rather, it represents a year-round phenomenon in Decatur, where locally-owned businesses become our go-to shopping destinations, and supporting our neighbors’ endeavors is a lifestyle. Especially this holiday season, say no to the big box retailers and turn to our downtown Decatur mom & pop stores for all your gifting and hosting needs.

In the words of Decatur Business Association President Sean Crotty, “Decatur is known for its vibrant small business scene. Our retail shops and restaurants are part of what makes Decatur a great place to live, and we appreciate all the support we get from our community. Small Business Saturday is a great reminder to shop small!”

The Bonfire

There’s an ancient serenity that comes from gathering around a fire with your community. It feels life-giving amidst the cold air, and everything sparkles with beauty in the glow of firelight. Decatur’s annual Bonfire is viewed by many as the pinnacle of the holiday experience schedule. Coordinated between all City of Decatur departments, especially fire, police, and public works, it’s a collaborative creation that alights our town with holiday cheer. The Talley Elementary choir sings, and thousands of sticks with marshmallows are handed out for roasting. Last year, they gave out over 2,500! Many neighbors bring their own sticks or save theirs from previous years, which is much appreciated.

Join the roaring bonfire and marshmallow roast on Thursday, December 11th, from 6-8 pm in the downtown East Court Square.

Decatur loves bringing people together to celebrate, and this time of year is a shining example of that. Don’t miss the Menorah Lighting on December 14th (organized by Chabad Intown) and Movie Night on December 18th for the fully fledged Decatur holiday agenda.

Find all the details here: https://visitdecaturga.com/holidays-2025/

services

CUSTOM BRACES PORCELAIN BRACES INBRACE

INVISALIGN TWO PHASE TREATMENT

PEDIATRIC ORTHODONTICS PALATAL EXPANDERS

LIVING

CHEERSTO T HE HOLIDAY

“I wanted to create a place where people can come and gather and feel at home.”

The holiday season is upon us, and that means it’s time for that classic winter tradition: tacos and tequila! The good folks at La Chiquiada Mexi-Cali restaurant on West Trinity are back with their popular Christmas Cantina this season and bringing no shortage of festive vibes to Downtown Decatur.

“We’re making the Christmas Cantina even bigger this year,” says La Chiquiada founder Catherine Zuber. “More decorations, more drinks- it’s a tradition we hope to grow year after year.”

Opening three years ago, La Chiquiada is an extension of Catherine’s passion for hospitality and a love for hosting, instilled in her by the women in her family. “I wanted to create a place where people can come and gather and feel at home. The Christmas Cantina is a fun way to extend that hospitality.”

In addition to La Chiquiada’s regular menu of scratch-made California-inspired Mexican cuisine, visitors to the Christmas Cantina can expect a festive selection of seasonal cocktails and treats to cozy up with at the bar. Cocktails like the Christmas Canelazo, a toddy-style tequila drink spiced with cinnamon, pair perfectly with a belly-warming bowl of queso, some red and green salsa, and floor-to-ceiling holiday cheer.

“Whether you’re looking for a spot for the office holiday party or a cozy spot to warm up when it’s cold out, the holiday spirit will be in full swing here,” says Zuber.

Follow La Chiquiada on Instagram @lachiquiada_decatur to see all the seasonal food and drink specials and be the first to know about special events and happenings at the restaurant. ¡Salud y Feliz Navidad!

A Tradition Wrapped in Friendship

Fifteen Years of the Annual Book Swap

Fifteen years ago, Jill Joplin gathered a few book-loving friends in her Great Lakes neighborhood for what she thought would be a single evening of trading favorite reads. Instead, she sparked a tradition that’s grown into a neighborhood ritual with an ever-growing circle of readers, and where the joy of unwrapping a new story rivals the laughter that fills the room.

“I started it myself with just a handful of women in my neighborhood,” Jill recalls. “Every year, more readers join in — friends of friends, new neighbors, people who just love books.”

Over the years, the book swap has evolved, bringing together women who share a love for stories and connection. Jill asked two book-loving friends, Anne Dishman and Molly Marrah to join her in planning and hosting the event. Since then, the three have co-hosted each December, rotating homes and welcoming new readers every year. “It’s my favorite party of the year — and I’m a host!” Jill laughs. Guests regularly declare the book swap their most-loved annual event, a festive mix of laughter, good conversation, and a playful gift game full of “steals” and surprises.

Even in 2020, when gatherings were impossible, Jill and her co-hosts (Ann and Molly) found a creative way to keep the tradition alive.

ARTICLE

AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY CAROLINE FICKEN

They transformed the swap into a cheerful “pickup” version — neighbors dropped off books at Jill’s house, and the trio wrapped and re-bagged them with cozy extras like tea, socks, and bookmarks. “We wanted it to still feel special,” Jill explains.

Molly Marrah (co-host) reflects on the swap’s enduring appeal: “What started as a small gathering to swap books has become one of my favorite holiday events! Not only do we get to hear about books we may not have had on our radar, we get to reconnect with friends we might not get to see very often during the year for whatever reason. It’s truly become a staple of my holiday calendar.”

Anne Dishman adds, “For us, the book swap is the perfect culmination of the year. Jill‘s brainchild has evolved into a truly special tradition of friendship, sharing, and discovery of books that influenced us over the past 12 months.”

One of Jill’s favorite memories involves a copy of Reese Witherspoon’s Whiskey in a Teacup wrapped with a tiny bottle

of bourbon attached to the ribbon.

“Everyone wanted that one,” she laughs. “People get so creative — that’s part of the fun.”

The swap’s charm lies in its simplicity. “It’s such an easy party to have,” Jill explains. “You don’t need much — just books, some snacks, and good company. We do it on a Sunday afternoon; people pop in, swap, laugh, and head home happy.”

It’s only fitting that Jill Joplin dreamed up this tradition — after all, she’s the Executive Director of the DeKalb Library Foundation, someone who knows firsthand how books bring people together. Jill spends her days championing stories and the

people who love them. When asked why she thinks people, especially women, are drawn to this tradition, she doesn’t hesitate, “Reading is an escape. It’s learning, curiosity, and comfort. And women love to talk — what better way to connect than through a story that moved you?”

Fifteen years later, that impulse to gather, give, and connect remains the heart of Jill’s beloved book swap. As she looks ahead to this year’s 15th gathering, she reflects, “It’s grown, sure, but it still feels like sitting down with friends who love the same thing you do. That’s what makes it special.”

One of the most powerful parts of their annual book swap is the community it’s cultivated. If you’re inspired to find a network of passionate readers to begin your own swap, or simply fall in love with reading again, your local library is the perfect place to begin.

Neighbors Spreading Holiday Cheer

A SEASON OF GIVING MAKES TRUE COMMUNITY IMPACT

ARTICLE BY BRANDON MALCOLM

The Decatur community is one in which neighbors take pride in taking care of each other. It’s a true hallmark of our city and something worthy of celebrating. There’s no time better than the holidays to lean into that spirit of generosity, and for over 30 years, A Season of Giving has brought light and joy to the holidays for thousands of those in need around the City of Decatur.

“We think A Season of Giving officially started around the year 2000, but it had different names and shapes years before then”, says long-time volunteer and web specialist Beth Thompson. “Really, we don’t know exactly when or who started it. It has been an organic community project that has grown naturally over the years. The community really takes ownership of it.”

A true grassroots effort, A Season of Giving is a neighbor-to-neighbor endeavor led entirely by volunteers every holiday season to bring essential items and gifts to children and seniors in need around the City of Decatur. No for-profit efforts or corporate intentions are involved here; simply community members looking out for each other to make the holidays a little brighter.

“It’s just nice,” says Anna Summerlin, who helps run day-to-day operations for the organization. “I started volunteering as a bag checker and enjoyed meeting new people and giving back in a fun way. 20 years later, we have grown and expanded, but still share the same mission and communal connection.”

A Season of Giving has always partnered with local churches such as Decatur First United Methodist and Decatur Presbyterian, as well as legacy businesses like Brickstore Pub, to contribute to the cause. It’s a holistic community effort. “While we are always so grateful for our large sponsors, it's the sponsors who provide

donations for 2 or 3 individuals every year that help us keep this going,” says Summerlin. “We couldn’t do what we do without support from all of our neighbors.”

In their decades of growth, A Season of Giving has worked its way up to serving more than 650 individuals each year. This year, they are on track to hit 600 sponsored children and seniors.

“We really want to meet a need, not just give people stuff,” says Summerlin. “We respect the recipients and their privacy. We just want to be good neighbors when someone reaches out.”

Essentials like clothing are chosen based on the size and preferences of the recipient, and specific requests are welcomed. Gifts include a book for every child, gift cards for middle and high schoolers, and special requests are honored as often as possible. “One of our seniors asks for a fruit cake every year, and we make sure he gets it. Those little gestures really make people feel seen.”

If you are looking for an opportunity to give back to the community around the holidays, there’s no shortage of ways to get involved with A Season of Giving. New sponsors are always welcome at any level. Volunteer opportunities are available to help pack and distribute gift bags, and monetary donations are always helpful to grow the cause and purchase additional items to donate.

“This is direct local action you can take to truly make an impact in your community and serve your neighbor in a simple, tangible way,” says Summerlin. “It’s real and in your neighborhood. This is about as grassroots as you can get.”

To learn more and find volunteer opportunities, visit aseasonofgiving.org

“This is direct local action you can take to truly make an impact in your community and serve your neighbor in a simple, tangible way.”

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 4TH

The Tree Lighting on the Square

Downtown Decatur Square | 6:00 PM

Kick off the holidays at Downtown Decatur’s annual Tree Lighting! Enjoy festive carols, hot cocoa, and plenty of cheer on the Square starting at 6 p.m. Then, at 7 p.m. sharp, Santa lights the tree—followed by a magical “snowfall.” Sponsored by Little Shop of Stories. Free and family-friendly fun for all!

DECEMBER 11TH

Bonfire + Marshmallow Roast

Downtown Decatur Square | 6:00 PM

Gather on the Decatur Square for a giant community bonfire and marshmallow roast! Enjoy free hot chocolate, marshmallows, and roasting sticks while supplies last—or bring your own. The bonfire lights at 6 p.m., with roasting from 7–8 p.m. Hosted by the Supervised by the Decatur Fire Department.

DECEMBER 12TH & 13TH

Decatur Holiday Marketplace

Clairemont Elementary School

The Decatur Holiday Marketplace + Café returns for its 34th year — a festive favorite featuring 100+ local artists, makers, and our beloved community café. Find gifts, meet makers, and feel the holiday spirit in every booth. Dec 12th 5:30p.m.- 9:00p.m. & Dec 13th 10:00a.m.- 5:00p.m.

DECEMBER 13TH & 20TH

Santa Claus is coming to Kudzu

Kudzu Antiques + Modern, 2928 E. Ponce de Leon Ave.

Stop by for festive photos (and a Polaroid keepsake!) with Mr. Claus himself. Saint Nick will be visiting on Saturday, Dec. 13 from 11:30am–1:30pm and Saturday, Dec. 20 from 12:00–2:00pm -- and stick around to shop for unique holiday treasures!

DECEMBER 14TH

Menorah Lighting

Downtown Decatur Square | 4:30 PM

Celebrate Chanukah in downtown Decatur with festive fun for all! Enjoy hot drinks, delicious latkes, lively music, photos with Mr. Dreidel, and the exciting Chanukah gelt drop from the Decatur Fire Department. Hosted by Chabad Intown. Learn more at chabadintown.org

DECEMBER 18TH

Screen on the Green

Ebster Recreation Center Courtyard, 105 Electric Ave | 6:00 PM

Grab your blankets and enjoy a screening of Happy Feet under the stars in downtown Decatur! Family-friendly films promise fun for all ages, with free popcorn while supplies last. Everyone is welcome, and the event is free. Presented by Visit Decatur GA and the Decatur Downtown Development Authority.