10 things to do in Atlanta this weekend
Whether it’s a night out with friends or family-friendly fun, Atlanta has an array of weekend activities that will get you in the seasonal spirit — from holiday markets to festivals and more. There’s even a special treat in store for dogs, too!
The 1940s Radio Hour at the Strand Theatre
This weekend, time travel to the swinging 1940′s in historic downtown Marietta’s Strand Theatre. Be transported to the golden era of live radio broadcasts with this entertaining live musical that takes place within a bustling radio station.
Location: The Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre - 117 N Park Square; Date: Through Sunday, Nov. 19; Time: 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. times (see website for more details); Admission: Starting at $24; Website: thestrand.my.salesforce-sites.com
Cobb County Gem and Mineral Show
Rock out at the Cobb County Mineral Show, a gem-packed adventure for the whole family where you’ll dig into a world of gemstones, rocks, fossils and minerals. Check out the gemstone and mineral polishing and identification demonstrations, as well as the signature Geode Cracking event.
Location: Cobb County Civic Center - 548 South Marietta Pkwy SE; Date: Nov. 17 - 19; Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday; Admission: Free; Website: ccgms.org
Atlanta Christkindl Market (Preview)
The Atlanta Christkindl Market at Buckhead Village is offering a sneak preview this weekend before it officially unveils its holiday magic starting Nov. 24. Sip on glühwein (mulled wine) as you shop this German-themed market for special handicrafts this holiday season. And did you know? “Weihnachten” means “Christmas” in German!
Location: Buckhead Village - 290 East Paces Ferry Road; Date: Nov. 17 - 19; Time: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Admission: Free; Website: christkindlmarket.org
First Voices Festival: A Celebration of Indigenous Cultures
The second annual First Voices Festival will be taking place both this weekend and next in celebration of the indigenous people of our land. Participate in a Storytelling Workshop, experience a PowWow on the soccer field in Little 5 Points and more. You can also extend your support to local indigenous artists by purchasing their unique artisanal goods.
Location: Multiple locations in Little Five Points; see website for details; Date: Nov. 17 - 19 (additional event on Nov. 24); Time: Various hours; Admission: Free (this weekend only): Website: 7stages.org
Atlanta Fall Wine Festival
Due to inclement weather, the Atlanta Fall Wine Festival has been postponed to Saturday, Nov. 18. Gather your friends and head to Historic Fourth Ward Park to try 50 different wines, as well as beer, seltzers and more. You’ll also receive a souvenir tasting glass to remember all your (literal) pour decisions.
Location: Historic Fourth Ward Park - 680 Dallas St NE; Date: Saturday, Nov. 18; Time: 1 - 5 p.m.; Admission: $55 in advance: $65 at the gate; Website: atlantawinefestivals.com
Cumming City Center Winter Market
Jingle all the way to Forsyth County this weekend and get a head start on your holiday shopping with a holly jolly selection of homewares, decor, fashion, accessories and unique gifts. This family-friendly market will get everyone in the festive mood with live music, games and activities.
Location: Cumming City Center - 423 Canton Rd; Date: Saturday, Nov. 18; Time: Starting at 10 a.m.; Admission: Free; Website: cummingcitycenter.com
Georgia Festival of Trees
Starting this weekend and running through the upcoming week, watch Downtown Atlanta’s Georgia World Congress Center transform into a dazzling forest of elaborate Christmas trees available for auction. Take part in festive activities such as sugar cookie-decorating, ornament-making and more at this family-friendly event.
Location: Georgia World Congress Center - 285 Andrew Young International Blvd NW; Date: Nov. 18 - 26; Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Admission: $21.79 for adults; $16.04 for kids ($21.79 for all-inclusive wristband); Website: gafestivaloftrees.org
Garden Lights, Holiday Nights at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
Let the magic of a beloved Atlanta holiday tradition brighten up your weekend. Atlanta Botanical Garden’s “Garden Lights, Holiday Nights” officially lights up on Nov. 18 and runs until January. And this year, the White Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland returns – well as many other new installations!
Location: Atlanta Botanical Garden - 1345 Piedmont Ave NE; Date: Saturday, Nov. 18 through Jan. 14; Time: Entrance tickets start at 5 p.m. and run until 9:30 p.m.; Admission: Starting at $37.95 for adults; $34.95 for children; Website: atlantabg.org
Barks and Bites: Doggie Crawl on the BeltLine
Ditch your regular walk around the block this weekend. Instead, treat your canine companion to a gourmet adventure at dog-friendly restaurants on the Atlanta BeltLine. Don’t have a dog? No worries! Join as a “companion” and share in the delicious food in the company of adorable pups.
Location: Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail; Date: Sunday, Nov. 19; Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Admission: $50 with dog; $79 without dog; Website: eventbrite.com
WildWoods: AGLOW
When the sun sets, Fernbank comes alive with this multisensory adventure that seamlessly blends nature, music and luminous ambiance. Your ticket also grants you access to the latest show on the Giant Screen Theater and special exhibits within the museum.
Location: Fernbank Museum of Natural History - 767 Clifton Rd; Date: Through February 2024; Time: Starting at 6 p.m. (hourly increments until 9 p.m.); Admission: Starting at $27.95; Website: fernbankmuseum.org
