There are plenty of winter wonderlands in Georgia, which may surprise some people since throughout much of the state, you can wear shorts at Christmastime. Many tourists hunting for a Georgia wonderland in the colder months often head to beautiful Dahlonega or Blue Ridge, and don't get us wrong: those are great places to celebrate the winter holidays! Still, there are plenty of small towns in Georgia and one of our favorite tiny gems that's worth taking a trip to is Helen. It's most famous for its lengthy and celebratory Oktoberfest in the fall, but the entire town becomes a holiday wonderland for all who visit, and it feels like each year gets better and better than the last. If you're looking for a last-minute getaway to get you into the holiday spirit, Helen, GA in winter is one trip you don't want to miss out on.

As if Alpine Helen doesn't already resemble a year-round storybook town, it somehow becomes even more magical when dolled up for Christmas. Winter in Helen, GA is a celebration like no other, and the whole town transforms into a winter wonderland in Georgia.

This is a picture-perfect town that becomes even more of a special place. Some consider it to be the epitome of a winter town experience, something we don't always get in the relatively warm climate of the Peach State.

When Helen, GA in winter is all lit up and decorated for the holidays, it can almost feel like you're stepping into a life-sized gingerbread village.

Strolling up and down the streets and popping in and out of all the cute boutique shops is the perfect way to spend a weekend. If you're looking to get some last-minute shopping done before Christmas, this is the spot for it!

Make sure you come hungry! You'll find plenty of delicious wintertime treats in some of the town's many bakeries.

Of course, you can always grab a few of the town's heartier Alpine delicacies. Visiting here feels like a trip to Germany, no passport required, and it's a culinary adventure for your taste buds.

It's not just the town of Helen that gets into the holiday spirit. The neighboring small town of Cleveland, GA also celebrates Christmas traditions in just as festive of a fashion.

Cleveland's annual Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade is a winter favorite for many White County families.

This area of the state is perfect for when you're seeking an entire winter weekend adventure. It's such a unique (and fun) way to usher in the holiday season.

Helen, GA in winter is full of little pockets of festivity, scattered all throughout town. It elevates this little Alpine village into a winter wonderland in Georgia.

If you time your visit just right and visit after a light dusting of snow, it manages to make the whole town even more amazing.

For more information about visiting Alpine Helen and all the winter festivities there, check out the White County Convention & Visitors Bureau Facebook page.

Have you ever visited this Georgia wonderland in the wintertime, or do you prefer the activities of fall celebrations in Helen, GA? Share your thoughts in the comments!

There are plenty of amazing places to stay near Helen, GA. We love this creekside cabin rental: it's the perfect romantic escape for two!