Jimmy Economos of Economos Event Productions helps run Light Up Dunwoody, the free holiday festival in Dunwoody Village each November with Santa, real reindeer, food trucks, local performers and the lighting of the Christmas tree and menorah. He started as the event DJ in 2006 and helped revive it after COVID with support from the Dunwoody Homeowners Association.
This episode is all about the magic behind Light Up Dunwoody and how it grew from a small street gathering into a major community festival. Jimmy Economos walks through the volunteers, the sponsors and the traditions everyone loves, like Santa, the reindeer and the tree and menorah lighting.
It brings thousands of people together every year, and it’s one of the events that makes Dunwoody feel like home.
Listen on Apple Podcasts. Planning for this year? Here’s my Light Up Dunwoody 2026 guide.
Who Is Jimmy Economos?
Jimmy Economos owns Economos Event Productions and has been part of Light Up Dunwoody since 2006, when he started as the DJ. He took on a bigger leadership role in the post-COVID revival.
His wife, Leah Economos, handles sponsor outreach. Together, with support from the Dunwoody Homeowners Association and sponsors like First Baptist Church and Lisa Torres, they’ve kept the tradition going strong.
What Happens at Light Up Dunwoody
It’s held on a Sunday in November in Dunwoody Village. The 2024 event ran from about 2 p.m. until the tree and menorah lighting at 6 p.m., and it’s free.
- Live performances from the Dunwoody High School Marching Band, Dan and Company dance studio and North Georgia School of Ballet
- Kids’ crafts from the Spruill Center for the Arts, face painting and holiday booths
- Free photos with Santa and real reindeer to pet
- Food trucks, including the famous cheesecake funnel cake
- The Christmas tree and menorah lighting to close the night
Why the DHA and Sponsors Matter
The Dunwoody Homeowners Association is volunteer-led and puts the money it raises back into community events. Leah makes sure every sponsor feels valued, and local partners give both money and hands-on help.
Growing Pains in Dunwoody Village
As Dunwoody Village changes, the event has to adapt. At the time of this episode, the possible sale of the Burger King lot, a central spot for the festival, had Jimmy Economos planning for new layouts. Dunwoody Village has stayed a strong partner, providing power and logistics.
Jimmy’s take: it’s not about the location, it’s about the people.
Volunteers Make It Happen
From setup to breakdown, neighbors from all over Dunwoody donate their time to handle performers, vendors and crowds. Want to help? Volunteer or sponsor next year.
My Take
Light Up Dunwoody is one of those nights that makes you fall in love with this town all over again. Jimmy Economos and Leah do so much for Dunwoody, from this to the 4th of July Parade. Bring the kids, get a funnel cake and stay for the lighting.
Thinking About Moving to Dunwoody?
Read my Moving to Dunwoody guide and things to do in Dunwoody, search Dunwoody homes for sale, or text me or call 404-502-8683.
Frequently Asked Questions About Light Up Dunwoody
Who is Jimmy Economos?
The owner of Economos Event Productions and a longtime leader of Light Up Dunwoody, which he first worked as the DJ in 2006.
When is Light Up Dunwoody?
It is held on a Sunday in November in Dunwoody Village, ending with the tree and menorah lighting. Check the current year’s guide for exact times.
Is Light Up Dunwoody free?
Yes. Photos with Santa and visiting the reindeer were free at the 2024 event.
Who supports Light Up Dunwoody?
The Dunwoody Homeowners Association, local sponsors and many neighborhood volunteers.