I’ve always loved the holiday season. Every year, I look forward to the lights, the music, and the way even ordinary streets seem to sparkle under strands of lights. But there’s something extra special about discovering a place that not only embraces the holidays but seems to become a living, breathing snow globe of cheer. For me, that place is Americus, Georgia.
From Birmingham, Americus is just a few hours’ drive, and it feels like stepping right into a holiday postcard. The first time I visited during the holiday season, I wasn’t sure what to expect. What I found was straight out of a Hallmark movie, complete with a grand historic hotel, decorated storefronts, a community tree lighting, and even a holiday trolley. It was the kind of trip that made me feel like a kid again, and it’s one I think your family should add to their holiday bucket list.
Cherith Glover Fluker
The Windsor Hotel
The Windsor Hotel: Holiday Magic at the Heart of Town
The centerpiece of downtown Americus is the Windsor Hotel, a beautiful Victorian hotel that dates back to the late 1800s. Walking through its doors feels like stepping straight into the past. During the holiday season, the Windsor doesn’t hold back. Wreaths and garlands drape across its balconies, twinkling lights sparkle from every corner, and the grand staircase looks like something out of a storybook.
When I first walked into the lobby, I just stood there, taking it all in. The woodwork is stunning, the atmosphere warm, and the holiday decor makes you feel instantly at home. Honestly, I could have spent my entire visit right there in the lobby, sipping cocoa and people-watching. But Americus had more holiday magic waiting outside those doors.
Cherith Glover Fluker
A Downtown Dressed for the Holidays
Cherith Glover Fluker
Judging the annual storefront decorating contest
Strolling through downtown Americus during the holidays is a treat in itself. The storefronts don’t just hang a wreath and call it done; they transform their windows into elaborate holiday scenes.
One of the biggest thrills during my time in Americus was serving as a judge for the annual storefront decorating contest. Let me tell you, it was way harder than you’d think! Each shop poured creativity and heart into their displays. Some were whimsical, with bright colors and playful touches that made children stop in their tracks. Others were elegant, the kind of displays you’d expect to see in a magazine. Every single one felt like a gift to the community.
As I walked block after block, clipboard in hand, I realized the contest wasn’t really about competition; it was about joy. What I witnessed was pure holiday magic. Families gathered at each window, children pressed their noses to the glass with wide-eyed wonder, and couples pointed out their favorites, smiling as they strolled along. The air buzzed with laughter and conversation, mingling with the carols drifting from nearby speakers. It was one of those rare moments when you feel completely present, wrapped in the glow of holiday spirit.
The Tree Lighting Tradition
Cherith Glover Fluker
Another highlight of my visit was the annual community tree lighting. This event is a big deal in Americus, and it shows. People arrive early to chat with friends, sip warm drinks, and eagerly wait for the countdown. The anticipation builds as the crowd grows, and by the time the switch is flipped, the energy is electric.
Standing there among strangers who felt like instant friends, I was reminded of why traditions like these matter. They’re about coming together as a community, sharing in something that’s bigger than any one person. That sense of connection is part of what makes Americus so special during the holidays.
Cherith Glover Fluker
All Aboard the Holiday Trolley
If you want to feel like a kid again, don’t skip the holiday trolley. Imagine climbing aboard a cheerful red trolley, the streets glowing with lights outside your window, and holiday music filling the air. As the trolley wound its way through town, I couldn’t stop smiling. I was just soaking in the moment—wide-eyed, full of wonder, and reminded of how simple joys are often the best ones.
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Madison Hernandez Photo + Art LL
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A Community That Lives the Season
What struck me most about Americus was the way the entire community came together to celebrate. You could see the pride in the shopkeepers’ window displays, hear the joy in families laughing on the trolley, and feel the warmth in the way people greeted one another at the tree lighting.
Americus during the holidays is the kind of experience you’ll want to return to year after year.
Why Birmingham Families Should Go
If you’re in Birmingham and looking for a festive road trip this season, consider Americus. It’s far enough away to feel like a getaway, but close enough to make the trip without stress. Best of all, it offers an unforgettable holiday experience that lets you slow down, enjoy the season, and create lasting memories with the people you love.
As I drove back home from Americus, I found myself replaying the images in my mind: the glow of the Windsor Hotel, the whimsical storefronts, the festive trolley ride, the hush of the crowd before the tree lit up. It made me realize that holiday magic isn’t just in the movies or in faraway places. Sometimes, it’s just down the road, waiting for you in a small Georgia town with a big heart.
So, this year, if you’re craving a little extra holiday spirit, grab your family and let Americus wrap you in its Christmas cheer. Who knows? You might just find yourself living out your very own Hallmark holiday story.