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29th Annual Christmas Made in the South coming to Macon next weekend. Here’s what to know.

Christmas Made in the South is back for its 29th year in Macon.
Christmas Made in the South is back for its 29th year in Macon.

Christmas came early this year in Macon.

Christmas Made in the South is back for its 29th year in Macon — and the best part? Santa will be there.

The magic that brings in more than 15,000 Middle Georgians starts next Friday, Nov. 4 and continues all weekend at the Macon Centreplex.

Crowds of people attend Christmas Made in the South at the Macon Coliseum in this 2013 file photo.
Crowds of people attend Christmas Made in the South at the Macon Coliseum in this 2013 file photo. Beau Cabell bcabell@macon.com

General admission is $9, free for children under 12, and will have something unique for everyone on your list. There will be more than 300 artists in attendance, showcasing their one-of-a-kind art, homemade gifts, food, decor, clothing, pet items and more.

Participating artists include Mark A. Ballard, Diana Cutter, Dee Jackson and Beth Varnadoe, as well as specialty homespun treats by Southern Straws Cheese Straws, Chuppcakes, Love & Sugar and Sinlicious Fudge. There will even be a Christmas buffet available for all three days of the event.

Like the spirit of Christmas, the event is about more than just the gifts, according to Ross Hunt, director of the event..

“Watching three generations of families come to the show to speak with all the artists and makers is always heartwarming. I love seeing that type of tradition and respect for fine arts and crafts. It is our 29th year in Macon, so it’s become a very strong family tradition,” he said.

Families are encouraged to bring their wish lists and cameras because Santa will make a special appearance.

Here are some other things to know before you go:

  • On Friday, the event will be held from 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 10-6 and Sunday 11-5

  • Parking is free at the Macon Centreplex

  • Tickets should be purchased online; directions for mobile ticket purchasing can be downloaded from the Macon Centreplex’s ticketing page.

  • One admission fee is good for all three days with a hand stamp.

  • A coupon for $1 off admission is available on the event’s website.

  • There is a clear bag policy; the rules are listed on the Macon Centreplex’s safety page.

  • Strollers are welcome and there will be a separate stroller entrance for convenience.

Chelsea Madden
The Telegraph
Chelsea is a service journalism reporter who began working for McClatchy in 2022. She was born and raised in Middle Georgia and lives in Forsyth. She attended Wesleyan College for undergrad and a few years after that, went to SCAD for an MFA in writing. Outside of work, Chelsea likes to watch Netflix, read books in the thriller genre and chase her toddler around.
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