Filming is underway this week in the Dahlonega square for a Hallmark Christmas movie production titled "Shooting Christmas."
Production will be taking place throughout town, primarily in the Dahlonega square, until October 13 impacting traffic, commerce and the appearance of the mountain city.
For the two week period, Dahlonega has been "transformed" into a small Iowa town during Christmas time. The production company has decorated the square in full holiday fashion and have even placed fake blankets of snow.
Amy Lassiter, the Co-Owner of Gustavo's Pizzeria located on the square, said the production is bringing a lot of visitors to Dahlonega.
"I don't think the town was expecting this much. But it seems to be a good thing because it is bringing a lot of people out that are curious as to what is going on. The film crew has been coming in, which is a good thing so all in all it is a good thing for everybody," she said.
Lassiter added that traffic has been a bit strange.
"Traffic has been slower if you look now. But I think there are a lot of gawkers that are looking too. But the city is handling it well. The parking is tight, but it always is here."
"I think the only drawback is the time of the year. This is our busiest time of the year with Gold Rush coming up really soon. That is the only impact. I think more filming would be great at a different time of the year," Lassiter said.
Several visitors spent Wednesday afternoon walking around the square taking in the sights and sounds of the production including one man from Texas.
"I came to Dahlonega for vacation because I am on vacation and I have heard about this town for a long time. I also heard they were filming so I thought it was a good time to come over and see what was going on," he said.
A couple from Cartersville, GA said they were traveling through Dahlonega and decided to stay and watch the filming. They both believe that television and film productions in Georgia are great for Georgia towns like Dahlonega.
"Its a great thing. As long as the crew is respectful to the town and the people of the town, it can't do anything but help the economy. And look around you, this is a beautiful little town and it should be on TV," they said.
The movie is set to air on the Hallmark channel around Thanksgiving. More information about the production is available here.
