Metro Atlanta and North Georgia feature New Year's Eve celebrations, and the annual 'Bring One for the Chipper' tree recycling program begins post-holidays.

Georgia will implement new laws on January 1, 2026, impacting home warranties, vehicle permits, tax savings, campaign disclosures, teledentistry, agency oversight, and litigation financing regulation.

Athens-Clarke County faced a week of traffic fatalities, including a crash that killed Dejon Ellis, 53, when his car hit a power pole. This raised the year's total to 10 fatal crashes and 14 deaths in the area.

Shaquille O'Neal was promoted to Chief of Community Relations in Henry County Sheriff's Office and praised for his significant community engagement efforts.

Cobb County's annual Bring One for the Chipper event offers Christmas tree recycling on January 3, helping the environment and improving local landscapes.

Hosea Helps provided meals to 1,500 people and toys to 700 children in Atlanta this Christmas, with a focus on those facing homelessness or financial struggles.

Three people died in Georgia crashes during the Christmas travel period, and state troopers arrested 38 for DUI, according to preliminary DPS reports.

Former Atlanta Housing executive Tracy Jones is expected to plead guilty to charges including defrauding government funds from Section 8 and COVID-19 relief programs.

Eight-year-old Kayla Frazier spent Christmas hospitalized after being hit by a car in Atlanta, requiring two surgeries and rehabilitation to walk again.

A man, 67, died on Christmas after crashing his car into an Atlanta home; police are investigating, the cause is unknown, and no other injuries were reported.

The City of Marietta has announced holiday schedule changes, including closures and altered sanitation services, with emergency services remaining available.

Kazoo Toys in Buckhead experiences record holiday sales despite tariff-induced price increases, showcasing the community's support for local businesses and the enduring holiday spirit.

Georgia reports "high" flu activity, with a notable increase in cases and hospitalizations. A new, less vaccine-responsive strain, Influenza A subclade K, raises concerns, but vaccination is still urged for prevention.