Goodwill Toward All

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! We’ve made it to the end of 2022. We’re definitely ready to celebrate, and this festive issue of Decatur Living certainly shows it, in more ways than one. Our entire magazine staff had no problem getting into the holiday spirit, and we hope this edition inspires you to try a new recipe or cocktail, give back to your favorite organizations, buy a well-thought-out gift for a loved one or simply savor the joy of where we live throughout this calm, cozy season. Ready to impress your dinner and drop-in guests? Flip to our cover story on page 9. Writer Vanessa Rust spoke to chefs and mixologists at several of our favorite restaurants in Decatur to get their beloved, time-tested recipes for drinks, entrees and snacks. Yum! Ready to knock out that looming shopping list? Our irresistible gift guide in this issue, starting on page 4, will probably double as a wish list for you! Skipping the gift frenzy this season but still want to give back to our community? We have that covered as well. Our favorite organizations are highlighted on page 16, in M. Mattingly’s feature, “To Give is to Receive.” Of course, what makes this time of year so special are the moments we spend with others we care about. I’m thrilled to share that the Avondale Tour of Homes, highlighted on page 22, offers the backstory on a few of the spectacular abodes to see during the holidays – and don’t forget to buy tickets for the corresponding holiday market, and check out our calendar of events for even more ways to get the neighborhood together. There’s no better way to close out the year. On behalf of everyone at Decatur Living, we hope you and your family have a memorable holiday season and cozy start to 2023. However you plan to celebrate, we’re right there with you, sharing the sentiment.

Natalie Gregory
Publisher, Decatur Living

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Mark Your Calendar

A December to Remember in Downtown Decatur

December 5
6 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Savor the season right here at home in Decatur with this heartwarming parade and downtown holiday festival. This year’s parade theme is all about the classic holiday movies we all know and love, each float representing a cherished film or theme. Get into the spirit by dressing as a character – and get ready for all the holiday feels.

Decatur Holiday Marketplace at Clairmont Elementary

December 9, 5:30 until 9 p.m.
December 10, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Finish your shopping and get into the holiday spirit at this year’s in-person marketplace at Clairmont Elementary. The school will magically transform into an inviting artists’ market, accompanied by delicious food and a festive atmosphere. Returning and new artisans and makers will be selling a number of unique handmade items, including paintings, glass art, jewelry, pottery, gourmet food items and much more. Professional food vendors and food trucks will keep you fueled for shopping. All proceeds from the event support learning initiatives for Clairemont students, so you can feel great about splurging.

Christmas Around the World at Decatur UMC

December 12
4 p.m.

Everyone is invited to celebrate the miracle of Christmas through a moving celebration of music and spoken word from around the world. This hour-long concert will include choirs of all ages, and, as a special treat, all attendees will be offered hot cocoa following the concert’s conclusion. Childcare available during the concert, so bring the entire family.

Mother’s Finest at Eddie’s Attic

December 30
7 p.m.

Atlanta-based rock ‘n’ roll band Mother’s Finest will bring down the house to finish out the year at our own Eddie’s Attic. Get ready to rock your socks off (or flops, depending on our weather in the South) and say farewell to the year along with this unforgettable band.

The Bitteroots Say Farewell at Eddie’s Attic

January 21
7 p.m.

After almost 15 years as a band, The Bitteroots will be together on stage one last time at their long-time home base of Eddie's Attic right here in Decatur on January 21. This will be the final farewell show, so don’t miss the chance to enjoy songs from the band’s seven albums and savor your favorite moments from the past decade and a half! Get tickets early for this show – it’s bound to sell out.

Mead Road Mardi Gras Parade

February 4

Let your hair down and enjoy a slice of king cake at the Mead Road Mardi Gras Parade! New Orleans comes to Decatur each February or March and gets the party started. Proceeds from this glittering event support music grants across City Schools of Decatur. Laissez les bons temps rouler!

20th Annual Tour deCatur 5k

March 11
8 a.m. until noon

Decatur’s largest 5K event happens each March and brings out more than 3,000 enthusiastic residents from age 2 to 82! The tour features a one-mile fun run and tot trot, in addition to the 5K, so be sure to bring the whole family, no matter the skill level!

Decatur Craft Beer Festival

October 15

Noon

The Decatur Craft Beer Festival features hundreds of the finest local and international beers, live music and food. The entry fee includes a special tasting glass. Proceeds benefit community projects. Entry is limited to 2,000 people. No one under 21 years of age or animals allowed inside the festival area. No exceptions. All tickets available online at decaturbeerfestival.org.

Winter 2022

Decatur restaurants share favorite recipes that are sure to impress your guests

A Taste of the Holidays