This holiday season brings the arrival of Peter Jackson’s new film “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey,” debuting on December 14, 2012.  Celebrate this trip into Middle Earth by seeing the movie with old friends or with new friends, as many local meet-up groups are meeting in costume to enjoy the release. However, if the movie alone won’t satiate those hobbit taste buds, there’s always the actual book to read itself or go see it performed on stage as well. Either way, this film will be on wide distribution at all of the local movie houses for you to see over and over through the Christmas season.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Atlanta Line Party
Regal Atlantic Station Stadium 16 & IMAX
261 19th St. N.W.
Atlanta, GA 30363
(404) 347-9894
www.theonering.net

Date: December 13
Price: Movie admission ticket

Atlantic Station has made it super easy to both finish your holiday shopping and enjoy a premiere party for the release of “The Hobbit.” Atlantic Station is covered in retail stores likes Dillard’s, H&M, Banana Republic, The Gap and more. This gives you plenty of time to do some shopping and then enjoy a great party for this highly anticipated movie. The event kicks off at 10 p.m. with trivia questions and prizes. Costumes are highly encouraged and stick around for a few movie premiere surprises up Regal Atlantic Station’s sleeves.

Related: Best Movie Theaters In Atlanta

Lionheart Theatre Company presents “The Hobbit”
Lionheart Theatre
10 College St.
Norcross, GA 30071
(678) 938-8518
www.lionhearttheatre.org

Dates: December 13-16
Price: $12-$15

Why just see “The Hobbit” on the big screen when you can see it performed live on stage? Community theater playhouse Lionheart Theatre opens” The Hobbit” on December 13. Director Jason Caldwell will bring to life the whimsical story of Bilbo Baggins as he begins his endeavor of leaving his hometown village on a quest made quite popular by “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. This production is family friendly and a great alternative to the multiple Christmas plays. Also, guests can enjoy a complimentary dessert at intermission.

CON*tourage HOBBIT party
Regal Atlantic Station Stadium 16 & IMAX
261 19th St. N.W.
Atlanta, GA 30363
(404) 347-9894
www.con-tourage.com

Date: December 15
Price: Movie admission ticket

There’s nothing like going to see “The Hobbit” with a ton of die-hard fans, especially if they’re in costume. CON*tourage hosts a party for the public to attend at Regal Atlantic Station Stadium 16. A costume contest is guaranteed along with a social function with drinking in the aftermath of the celebratory movie watching. Grab a friend or make a new one at this fun movie meet-up.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey – Midnight Premiere
Regal Atlantic Station Stadium 16 & IMAX
261 19th St. N.W.
Atlanta, GA 30363
(404) 347-9894
www.meetup.com/AtlantaGeeks

Date: December 14
Price: Movie admission ticket

This intown social group meets regularly for trivia, board games and sci-fi movie marathons. It provides plenty of opportunities to meet new friends and have fun new experiences. This midnight viewing has an RSVP list of 30 plus and it’s growing. Plan your attendance now and buy a ticket as soon as possible. There are plenty of restaurants in Atlantic Station to grab a bite or drink beforehand for more social mingling time.

A Cappella Books
208 Haralson Ave. N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30307
(404) 681-5128
www.acappellabooks.com

Even though the much-awaited Peter Jackson film version of “The Hobbit” will attract huge crowds, there wouldn’t be a movie without the original book by J.R.R. Tolkien. Pick up a copy of the book at a local bookstore, like A Cappella Books, and then see how well Jackson did on bringing the story to life. For the release of this movie, there’s also “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Chronicles: Art & Design” hardcover book. It’s packed with photos, concept designs and more. Get both and they could make a great holiday gift.

Related: 5 Must-Read Books By Atlanta Authors

Stacy Sheets is native to Atlanta. She is a graduate of the University of Georgia. Stacy is a freelance writer who enjoys keeping abreast on the best Atlanta has to offer. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.