Light Up Dunwoody returns to historic farm

The Dunwoody Homeowners Association will open the holiday season on Nov. 15 with its annual Light Up Dunwoody event at the Donaldson-Bannister House. The gathering is scheduled for the lawn located at the corner of Chamblee Dunwoody and Vermack Road.

This marks the second year the event has been held at the farm site. Organizers moved the celebration from the Shops of Dunwoody in 2025 because the previous location could no longer accommodate the growing attendance. Last year’s crowd was estimated at 3,500 people.

DHA President Tim Brown said the association believes it has found the right setting for the tradition. “After last year’s success, I think we have found our place for Light Up Dunwoody,” Brown said. He added that the group is excited to deepen its relationship with the Dunwoody Preservation Trust, which co-hosts the event.

The event runs from 2 to 6 p.m. and includes live music, dance performances, and children’s crafts. Visitors can take photos with Santa and purchase dinner and desserts from food trucks. The program concludes with the traditional lighting of the Christmas tree and menorah.

Members of the Chesnut family, who owned and lived at the Donaldson-Bannister Farm from 1975 to 2005, will flip the switch to illuminate the displays. EEP Events LLC, owned by Jimmy and Leah Economos, will produce the event.

The Dunwoody Homeowners Association and the Dunwoody Preservation Trust are the co-hosts for this year’s gathering. Rough Draft Atlanta serves as the media sponsor for the function.