10 things to do in Atlanta this weekend
As we head into the fall season, this is the perfect time to explore all the fun Atlanta has to offer! The city has something for foodies, art lovers, outdoor adventurers, families and anyone else looking to have a good time this weekend. Let’s dive into 10 must-attend experiences that will make your time in the ATL unforgettable!
And take note! SCAD’s signature festival for all things digital media, AnimationFest will be held at the university’s state-of-the-art SCADshow theater in Midtown Atlanta on Sept. 26-28, 2024. SCADFILM’s signature three-day event will feature sessions with top executives and creatives from Adult Swim, Bad Robot, Crafty Apes, DC Studios, DreamWorks Animation, Netflix, and Warner Bros. Animation, as well as showcase SCAD students and alumni whose creative work is at the forefront of animation, motion media design, and visual effects. This year’s SCAD AnimationFest Award of Excellence will be awarded to Genndy Tartakovsky for his impressive creative contributions to the animation and entertainment industries. Tartakovsky is an award-winning animation visionary, director, writer, and producer who is best known for the popular animated series Dexter’s Laboratory, Samurai Jack, and Genndy Tartakovsky’s Primal, as well as the hit monster movie franchise Hotel Transylvania. For passes and more information visit: scad.edu
Piedmont Park’s 125th Birthday
Come out and celebrate Piedmont Park’s 125th Birthday celebration! This historic milestone invites the community to celebrate the park’s rich legacy with a day filled with festivities, including live music, food vendors, family-friendly activities, and historical exhibits that showcase Piedmont Park’s evolution over the years.
Location: Piedmont Park - 1071 Piedmont Ave NE; Date: September 26; Time: 6:30-10:30 p.m.; Admission: Free; Website: piedmontpark.org
SCAD Animationfest
This exciting event brings together industry professionals, students, and animation enthusiasts for a series of screenings, panels, and workshops. Attendees can explore cutting-edge trends in animation, from feature films and television to emerging technologies like virtual reality and interactive media.
Location: Midtown Atlanta - 1470 Spring St NW; Date: September 26-28; Time: 12:30-6 p.m. (Thursday); Noon to 8 p.m. (Friday); 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Saturday); Admission: $10 individual tickets, $35 screening pass, $100 festival pass; Website: scad.edu
Disney On Ice
This enchanting show features stunning figure skating performances set to the backdrop of iconic Disney stories. Audiences of all ages can enjoy the spectacle as characters like Mickey, Minnie, Elsa, and Moana take to the ice.
Location: Duluth - 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy; Date: September 26-29; Time: Showtimes vary, see website; Admission: $20 and up; Website: gassouthdistrict.com
Autumn Art Market
Enjoy the beginning of fall at this wonderful art market where you can shop from a variety of local vendors and handmade goods. Visitors can stroll down the road from Krog Street Tunnel for an evening of drinks and snacks, music, and even a dance floor. Remember to treat yourself and shop small!
Location: Southeast Atlanta - 552 Decatur St. SE; Date: September 27; Time: 6-10 p.m.; Admission: Free; Website: eventbrite.com
Atlanta Tattoo Festival
Calling all tattoo lovers! This festival showcases live tattooing from some of the best local and international tattoo artists, offering attendees the opportunity to get unique, custom designs on-site. Beyond tattoos, the event also features art exhibits, contests, and workshops focused on the artistry and history of tattooing.
Location: Downtown Atlanta - 240 Peachtree St; Date: September 27-29; Time: noon to 10 p.m. (Friday); 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Saturday); 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Sunday); Admission: $30 for a single day pass and $65 for a weekend pass; Website: atlantatattoofestival.com
AIDS Walk Atlanta Music Festival & 5K Run
Held in Piedmont Park, participants will join forces to walk or run the scenic 5K route while enjoying live music, food trucks, and engaging activities throughout the day. The festival atmosphere adds energy and celebration to the cause, featuring performances from Lil Kim and Durand Bernarr.
Location: Midtown Atlanta - 1322 Monroe Dr NE; Date: September 28; Time: 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; Admission: Free; Website: aidswalkatlanta.org
Afro Street Market Festival
Celebrate the African culture, creativity, and community in Atlanta this weekend! Shop from local and international vendors and enjoy cultural performances, live music, and dances that highlight the diverse heritage of the African diaspora.
Location: Southwest Atlanta - 8 Mangum St SW; Date: September 28; Time: 2-10 p.m.; Admission: Free; Website: wowafro.com
The Latin American Association Presents: Portraying the Immigrant Experience - An Art Contest and Cultural Celebration
This inspiring art contest and cultural celebration highlights the stories, struggles, and triumphs of immigrants through artistic expression. This unique event invites artists from all backgrounds to submit works that capture the essence of the immigrant journey, reflecting themes of identity, resilience, and cultural heritage.
Location: Northeast Atlanta - 2750 Buford Highway NE; Date: September 28; Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Admission: Free; Website: thelaa.org
Sweet Auburn Music Fest
The Sweet Auburn Music Fest is a fun, two-day event that celebrates Atlanta’s rich history and culture through music, food, and community. Held in the historic Sweet Auburn District, this festival features a diverse lineup of musical performances, ranging from hip-hop and R&B to gospel, jazz, and soul, highlighting both local talent and well-known artists.
Location: Southeast Atlanta - 312 Irwin St NE; Date: September 28-29; Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Admission: Free; Website: sweetauburnmusicfest.com
Duluth Fall Festival
Join the Duluth community to celebrate the arrival of autumn with fun, family-friendly activities. This two-day festival offers an wide-range of entertainment, including a lively parade, arts and crafts vendors, carnival rides, and live music performances all taking place in Downtown Duluth. It’s a festive and welcoming event that attracts visitors from all over Georgia to experience the warmth and excitement of fall.
Location: Downtown Duluth - 3167 Main St; Date: September 28-29; Time: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Saturday); 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Sunday); Admission: Free; Website: duluthfallfestival.org