Lights on the Loop Event
If you are looking for a festive way to enjoy the winter season outdoors, Lights on the Loop has become one of Alpharetta’s signature experiences. This annual event transforms a specific section of the Alpha Loop into an illuminated walking trail that is free and open to the public. It offers residents and visitors a chance to exercise, socialize, and enjoy holiday art installations in a safe, family-friendly environment.
What is Lights on the Loop?
Lights on the Loop is an immersive light installation organized by the Alpha Loop Foundation. Unlike drive-through light shows, this is a pedestrian-only experience that encourages you to get out of the car and connect with the community! The event features a one-mile stretch of the Alpha Loop trail with thousands of LED lights, live entertainment, and unique holiday-themed structures.
The display runs along the Alpha Loop trail, specifically the segment connecting Old Milton Parkway to Northwinds Parkway. It is designed to be accessible for everyone, including families with strollers and dog walkers. Because the trail is paved and well-maintained, it serves as an easy evening activity for people of all ages!
Where is Lights on the Loop Located?
Navigating to the event is simple, but knowing exactly where to start will save you time. The Lights on the Loop installation is located on the trail segment behind 2500 Northwinds Parkway. For those driving to the event, the lots are free for attendees and provide direct access to the trailhead, so you don’t have to walk far to reach the lights.
When to Visit Lights on the Loop
One of the best features of Lights on the Loop is its consistent schedule throughout the holiday season. Visitors can visit Lights on the Loop from December 5 through January 4, ensuring you have plenty of time to see the display even after Christmas Day has passed. The lights are turned on nightly from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Since the event is open every night, you can choose to visit on a quiet weeknight or a busier weekend depending on your preference. Many locals find that visiting on a Tuesday or Wednesday offers a more peaceful, solitary walking experience. However, weekends often feature additional festivities, making them a better choice if you are looking for a lively community atmosphere.
The Winter Village and Weekend Activities
While the lights are beautiful every night, weekends at Lights on the Loop feature the Winter Village during the 3 themed weekend on the first three weekends of the event. Located near the Northwinds Parkway entrance, this area serves as a gathering spot with food trucks, local artisan vendors, warm beverages, and more. It turns a simple walk into a full evening outing where you can grab a bite to eat and shop for local goods!
If you are interested in specific activities, we recommend checking the official Alpha Loop Foundation event page before you go. These pop-up events add significant value to the experience and are great for families looking for entertainment beyond the light display!
The Event’s Impact on Alpharetta
Lights on the Loop is more than just a seasonal decoration. The event is a celebration of Alpharetta’s commitment to walkability and connection. The Alpha Loop itself is a major infrastructure project designed to link neighborhoods, parks, and more in our community. By hosting events on the trail, the city highlights the utility and beauty of this greenway network.
Supporting this event also helps support the Alpha Loop Foundation, the non-profit organization dedicated to completing and beautifying the trail. When you donate on the Alpha Loop Foundation website, you are helping fund the expansion of this vital community asset. It is a great way to see your city from a new perspective while contributing to its future growth.
Tips for a Great Experience
To get the most out of your visit to Lights on the Loop, we suggest dressing in layers and wearing comfortable walking shoes. The trail is outdoors and can be quite chilly after sunset, especially near the open green spaces. Bringing a travel mug of hot cocoa or coffee from home or buying one at a nearby cafe can make the walk much more enjoyable.
We also recommend bringing a camera or smartphone with a good “night mode” setting. The light tunnels and illuminated trees are designed to be photogenic, and you will likely want to capture the moment. Finally, remember that this is a “leave no trace” event, so please be sure to dispose of any trash properly to keep the Alpha Loop beautiful for everyone.
Spencer Myers is a founder and editor of Alpharetta.com and a longtime Alpharetta resident who has observed the city’s transformation from a quiet suburban town into one of the Southeast’s fastest-growing tech hubs. Our team’s original interviews and unique content have been cited by Fox 5 Atlanta, MSN, Urbanize Atlanta, and other major local news outlets. Through Alpharetta.com, our team connects residents and newcomers with trusted local businesses, the latest local updates, and exclusive insights from the leaders shaping the community’s future.