On Sunday, December 14th, guests will gather along Boulevard in Athens' historic streetcar suburb for Boulevard in Lights, an evening of history, hospitality, and holiday cheer.
The 2025 Historic Athens Holiday Gala marks the return of this beloved tradition to the Boulevard Historic District, where century-old trees, costumed carolers, and trolley rides evoke the neighborhood's storied past. Guests are invited to step inside some of the district's finest homes and celebrate the community that continues to protect them.
Set against the backdrop of Athens’ first planned suburb, the evening will feature exclusive home tours, trolley rides retracing historic streetcar routes, and seasonal fare, all culminating in a VIP celebration at The Athenian, the newly restored Stevens-Thomas House (c. 1850) and recipient of the 2025 Historic Athens Outstanding Rehabilitation Award.
Every ticket and every toast directly support Historic Athens’ meaningful work to conserve and celebrate the cultural and architectural heritage of our community. Together, we help make sure that Athens' history continues to shine for generations to come.
Contributing & Supporting Members use historic10 for 10% off your order.
Sponsors & Preserving Members use historic15 for 15% off your order.
Volunteers Needed!
Be part of the magic! We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help bring this event to life. Volunteer Roles Include:
Docents (4:00 - 7:00 PM): Welcome guests, share history about the homes, answer questions, and help make sure guests have an unforgettable experience.
Trolley Stop Assistants (4:00 - 7:00 PM): Be one of the first friendly faces guests meet! Help them on/off trolleys, direct them to homes, and help us track the trolleys as they move along their route.
Volunteer Perks: As a volunteer, you’ll enjoy a one-hour break during your shift to explore the gala! Tour the homes, enjoy the food and beverages in the main Festival Tent as a thank-you for your time and energy.
Sponsorship Opportunities Available!
Be a part of Boulevard in Lights and support the preservation of Athens’ history as a Gala Home Sponsor! This $1,500 sponsorship places your brand inside one of Boulevard’s beautifully restored historic homes, offering exclusive on-site visibility to over 500 engaged community members, local leaders, and preservation supporters. With all other sponsor levels claimed, these final Home Sponsorships are the last opportunity to activate your brand within the Gala experience while directly supporting Historic Athens’ mission.
To secure a Gala Home Sponsorship, please email michelle@historicathens.com
Main Event | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Historic Home Tours
Step inside stunning homes throughout the Boulevard Historic District, each brimming with stories of Athens’ past. During the Gala, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to these remarkable homes and the chance to meet the residents who care for these historic treasures today.
presented by Arch Orthopedic and Spine
Bid on a curated selection of local goods, exclusive experiences, and treasures you won’t find anywhere else. Your winning bids help preserve Athens’ historic places for generations to come.
Trolley Tours & Carolers
Step aboard trolleys operated by Athens Trolley Tours and travel along routes once traced by Athens’ historic streetcars through the Boulevard Historic District.
As you ride, the Classic City Carolers will fill the neighborhood with music, adding warmth and holiday spirit to your journey through Athens’ past.
Holiday Bites & Beverages
Enjoy delicious bites and holiday-inspired treats crafted by Epting Catering, featuring warm and sweet seasonal goodies. Raise a glass at our open bar, featuring wines from The Lark Winespace.
Spirits Tasting: Casa Noble Tequila Experience
Enjoy an exclusive guided spirits tasting featuring premium Casa Noble tequila selections. Guests arrive on the hour for their reserved seating for a curated presentation highlighting flavor profiles, production, and tasting techniques. The tasting takes place at the Historic Athens Fire Hall, and complimentary trolley service will transport guests to and from the venue. Seating is limited for each session, and this add-on is available to all Main Event and VIP ticketholders. Reserve your tasting seat during checkout to be part of this special experience.
Wine and Whiskey Pull
Take your chances in our Wine and Whiskey Pull, where every bottle is a winner and every ticket supports historic preservation. Will you discover a hidden gem for your holiday table or a rare bottle to savor?
VIP Party at The Athenian
A VIP ticket includes admission to both the Main Event and the VIP Party, creating the complete Historic Athens Holiday Gala experience. After the Main Event concludes at 7 PM, complimentary trolley service by Athens Trolley Tours will transport VIP guests directly to The Athenian for an unforgettable evening finale.
The VIP Party is both a celebration and a live fundraising event that supports Historic Athens’ mission-driven work to preserve the character and history of our city. Attendance is limited for those who wish to experience the Gala at its most memorable.
Exclusive Access to The Athenian
After the Main Event, VIP guests will ride by trolley to The Athenian, Athens’ newest boutique hotel inside the historic Stevens-Thomas House, built around 1850. Recipient of the 2025 Historic Athens Outstanding Rehabilitation Award, The Athenian blends original fireplaces and hardwood floors with refined finishes and warm light. In this intimate setting, guests will enjoy gourmet fare, drinks, and spirited live bidding.
Open Bar and Gourmet Bites
VIP guests will enjoy an open bar featuring specialty cocktails and wines, paired with gourmet bites served in The Athenian’s stylish parlors and on its grand porch.
Exclusive Live Auction
presented by Arch Orthopedic and Spine
The evening concludes with a lively auction of unique items and experiences, offering VIP guests the chance to take home something special while supporting Historic Athens.