Thanksgiving morning begins with the Atlanta Half-Marathon, which features more than 6,000 runners. The full marathon run is approximately 26 miles while the half-marathon run is approximately 13 miles. Participants must wake up early as the full marathon begins at 7:30 a.m. and the half-marathon begins at 7:00 a.m. Entry fees are $25 for the full marathon and $25 for the half-marathon. Training for the Atlanta Half Marathon begins in August. Registration for the 13-week training program begins in August and provides participants with 13 Saturday runs along with information to maintain training.
After Thanksgiving dinner, the city of Atlanta hosts the Macy's Great Tree Lighting, which as of 2010 will celebrate its 63rd anniversary. The event's highlight is the lighting of a 70-foot white pine tree along with musical performers by some of the music industry's biggest names such as country music star Josh Turner. The Macy's All-Star Holiday Choir also performs. More than 100,000 people from across the country attend the event that Macy's spokeswoman, Melissa Goff, says is "its gift to Atlanta." The event ends with a fireworks display accompanied by holiday music.
A good way to burn calories after Thanksgiving dinner is by ice skating at Centennial Park. As of 2010 the park celebrated its 13th year of existence. Surrounded by stage lighting and holiday music, visitors can skate up to 90 minutes for $2. Lockers are also available for those needing to store personal items. If you want to bring the entire family you may contact the park and request a group rate in advance. Group discounts are available for groups of 20 or more people.
