Metro Atlanta is a bustling metropolitan area that is home to a diverse population and a range of exciting events throughout the year. From cultural festivals to sporting events, there is something for everyone in this vibrant region of Georgia. Here are some of the most popular events in Metro Atlanta that you won’t want to miss:
1. Atlanta Jazz Festival: Held over Memorial Day weekend in Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Jazz Festival is a beloved annual event that draws jazz enthusiasts from all over the country. The festival features an impressive lineup of local and national jazz musicians, as well as food and drinks from some of the city’s best restaurants.
2. Atlanta Food & Wine Festival: Foodies flock to this event, which takes place in Midtown Atlanta each June. The Atlanta Food & Wine Festival celebrates the region’s culinary heritage with tastings, demonstrations, and workshops led by top chefs and mixologists.
3. Dragon Con: This massive convention draws sci-fi and fantasy fans to downtown Atlanta each Labor Day weekend. With celebrity guests, cosplay contests, and panels on everything from comic books to gaming, Dragon Con is a must-attend event for fans of all ages.
4. Atlanta Film Festival: Celebrating its 46th year in 2022, the Atlanta Film Festival is one of the longest-running film festivals in the country. Each spring, the festival showcases a diverse range of independent films from around the world, as well as panels, workshops, and networking opportunities for filmmakers.
5. Peachtree Road Race: Held on Independence Day, the Peachtree Road Race is a beloved Atlanta tradition that draws runners of all abilities to the streets of Buckhead. The 10K race is one of the largest in the world, with more than 60,000 participants each year.
6. Atlanta Pride Festival: Held in Piedmont Park each October, the Atlanta Pride Festival is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in the Southeast. The festival features a parade, live music, and vendors offering everything from food and drinks to pride-themed merchandise.
7. Shaky Knees Music Festival: This indie rock festival takes place each May at Central Park in Midtown Atlanta. With a lineup of top-tier artists like The Strokes, The Black Keys, and Tame Impala, Shaky Knees draws music fans from all over the country.
8. Atlanta Braves games: Whether you’re a diehard fan or just looking for a fun night out with friends, catching a game at Truist Park is a quintessential Atlanta experience. With a range of ticket options and special promotions throughout the season, there’s never a bad time to root, root, root for the home team.
9. Music Midtown: Music Midtown is a large music festival held in Atlanta, Georgia. In May of 2023, it was announced that Music Midtown would return. The festival runs for one weekend each year, typically in September. The event drew in excess of 300,000 attendees per year during its peak years. You’ll find it located in Piedmont Park. Enjoy music from all genres.
10. Atlanta Porch Fest: There are several. VA/Higland and Oakhurst are a couple of spots. Come listen to a variety of musicians playing their tunes on someones porch!
11. Oyster Fest: Yum- come experience fun and food at this yummy festival! Enjoy a great selection of Oysters, beer, wine, mimosas, brunch punch, seltzer, and live music !
These are just a few of the many exciting events that take place in Metro Atlanta throughout the year. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just visiting the area for the first time, be sure to check out some of these popular events to experience the best that the city has to offer.