With the holiday season is in full swing, let’s explore Georgia through a festive lens, reimagining the “Twelve Days of Christmas” with a uniquely Peach State twist. Each day unveils a gift steeped in Georgia’s culture, heritage, and charm.
A Partridge in a Peach Tree
In Georgia, the partridge trades places with a cheeky pigeon nestled in a peach tree at Jaemor Farms in Alto. This historic farm, surrounded by rows of peach trees, embodies the state’s agricultural pride and natural beauty.
Turtle Doves
Forget the doves; in Atlanta, the King and Queen Buildings stand as symbols of love and partnership. These iconic skyscrapers light up the skyline, representing unity and resilience in Georgia’s capital city.
French Hens
Georgia’s coastal marshes, home to the marsh hens of St. Simons and Jekyll Islands, offer a serene alternative to French hens. Their gentle calls echo through the reeds, showcasing the state’s rich biodiversity.
Calling Birds
‘Calling birds’ take on a sporty edge with Georgia’s favorite teams. The Atlanta Falcons and Hawks, along with college mascots like Kennesaw State’s Owls, create a rousing chorus of athletic energy.
Golden Rings
At The Varsity in Atlanta, golden rings come in the form of crispy, delicious onion rings. Paired with chili dogs and Frosted Orange shakes, these iconic treats are a true taste of Georgia.
Geese-A-Laying
Our first literal item on this list, Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge, just a short drive from Georgia’s border, is a haven for geese. By its tranquil waters, the sight of nesting geese highlights the state’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty.
Swans-A-Swimming
Buckhead’s Swan Coach House replaces the swans with swan-themed elegance. This historic site serves up art, history, and fine Southern cuisine, including the Georgia Peach Chicken Sandwich.
Maids-A-Milking
Georgia’s modern dairy farms, like Mountain Fresh Creamery & Glo-Crest Dairy, show off the agricultural tradition of The Peach State. The farm boasts “milk so fresh the cow doesn’t even know it’s gone.” connecting with the farm-to-table ethos. You won’t see actual maids a-milking, but you will find cows a-mooing.
Ladies Dancing
The Georgia Ballet in Marietta dazzles audiences with performances that bring grace and artistry to life. The elegance of the dancers embodies the festive spirit of the season.
Lords-A-Leaping
In Peachtree City, the Georgia Academy of Dance brings ‘Lords A-Leaping’ to life. Aspiring dancers leap and twirl, their energy reflecting the passion and artistry of Georgia’s dance community.
Pipers Piping
The historic Zion Episcopal Church in Talbotton echoes the theme of ‘Pipers Piping’ with the oldest functioning Pilcher pipe organ in the U.S. Its harmonious tones evoke a timeless holiday spirit and celebrate Georgia’s musical heritage.
Drummers Drumming
Atlanta’s Atlanta Ol Skool Drummers capture the spirit of ‘Drummers Drumming’ with vibrant, rhythmic performances. Their dynamic beats resonate across Georgia, showcasing the state’s cultural vibrancy and musical heritage.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.