Must-see Christmas display lights up Scataway Road

HIAWASSEE, Ga. – A longheld tradition in Towns County is an annual pilgrimage to view a spirited display of Christmas lights on Scataway Road. Robert Buchanan and family welcome the holiday season by decorating their land with thousands of dazzling lights, complete with Christmas music, for young and old to marvel.

The display came to life on Thanksgiving eve and will run until Jan. 2, between dusk and approximately 10:30 p.m. The must-see exhibit is free to the public although donations are appreciated to offset the cost of the electricity consumed.

On the third week in September, Buchanan begins creating the impressive winter wonderland, altering the display each year to offer a fresh perspective for visitors. Additional Christmas trees, two giant reindeers, and many more lights debuted in 2019. A single tree on the lot holds over 20,000 glowing lights, taking days in itself to decorate for the festive season.

Scataway Road is located east of Hiawassee, off State Route 76, toward the Rabun County line. The stunning Buchanan display can be seen upon approach when traveling up the winding hill. Visitors are welcome to park in front of the holiday spectacle and safely exit their vehicles to fully experience the magic along the roadway.

Other holiday events include Mountain Country Christmas in Lights at the Georgia Mountian Fairgrounds.  Visitors are invited to enjoy caroling, arts & crafts, food, and entertainment throughout the site. The show runs each Thursday, Friday, and Saturday through Dec. 29 from 6 – 9 p.m. Admission is $5 per person. Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge.

Hiawassee Town Square and Mayor’s Park in Young Harris are additionally aglow with holiday decor for the Christmas season.