School's out and it is officially the most wonderful time of the year. It’s the season to bake cookies, drink hot chocolate, buy sweaters, put up Christmas lights, go ice skating and sing Christmas carols. There is no better way to celebrate the holidays than by being festive.

Growing up only 40 minutes away from Atlanta, I have always looked forward to the holidays in the city. The city of Atlanta has so many festive things going on during Christmas and throughout the rest of the holiday season.

Here are six festive things to do in Atlanta.

1. Atlanta Ballet’s "Nutcracker"

Date: Through 12/27/2015

This is a holiday tradition that everyone should, at least, go see once. It is performed at the Fox Theater in downtown Atlanta. When I was in middle school, I was lucky enough to be a part of this show and it has become one of my favorite traditions ever since.

2. Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain

Date: Through 1/3/15

Even though it doesn’t snow very often in Georgia, it snows every year at Stone Mountain. You can tube in the snow and enjoy many other festive activities the park offers.

3. Ice Skating at Atlantic Station

Date: Through 1/5/2015

Lace up your skates and go for a spin on the ice. Even though there are several places to ice skate in Atlanta during the holidays, Atlantic Station is my favorite. Before you skate you can do some Christmas shopping and after your skating session, you can take a picture by the Christmas tree and grab some hot chocolate.

4. Garden Lights at Atlanta Botanical Garden

Date: Through 1/9/2015

There are several places you can see Christmas lights in Atlanta, but my favorite is at the Botanical Garden. This year there is a new feature called the "Tunnel of Light."

5. New Year’s Eve Countdown in Atlanta

Date: 12/31/15

Party your way into 2016 with music, food and friends. The biggest party of the year is going to be at the Hyatt Regency.

6. Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl

Date: 12/31/15

I love Chick-Fil-A and I love football. What better way to kick-start your New Year's Eve than a football game. This year the Houston Cougars and the Florida State Seminoles will face each other in this matchup at the Georgia Dome.

The holidays are only as good as you make them. So, don’t sit around at home, instead, get out and explore Atlanta and all the festive things it has to offer. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!