What to do in metro Atlanta this weekend: festivals, free events and more
Atlanta’s weekend calendar is packed, and we’ve rounded up 10 of the best ways to get out and enjoy it. From neighborhood festivals and pop-ups to live shows and unique local experiences, there’s no shortage of fun happening around the city.
And take note: Atlanta’s favorite, beer-filled spring tradition is back this weekend! SweetWater 420 Fest returns April 17–18 at Shirley Clarke Franklin Park, bringing together live music, tasty craft beers, and unbeatable outdoor vibes. Enjoy nationally loved artists, local favorites, and the energy that defines this iconic Atlanta festival. Grab your crew, raise a pint, and kick off festival season the SweetWater way! Tickets start at just $40! Check out the full details now at 420fest.com.
Taste of Atlanta
Get ready to indulge your taste buds at The Works. This foodie event features over 70 local restaurants and caterers offering a variety of delicious bites.
Location: Upper Westside - 1295 Chattahoochee Ave NW; Date: April 16; Admission: $95 and up; Time: 6-10 p.m.; Website: tasteofatlanta.com
Illumine
Stroll through beautifully lit pathways and explore captivating art installations that bring Oakland Cemetery’s rich stories to life after dark. This self-guided evening experience is a must this weekend.
Location: Southeast Atlanta - 374 M.L.K. Jr Dr SE; Date: April 16-19; Admission: $15 and up; Time: 7:30-11 p.m.; Website: oaklandcemetery.com
Sweetwater 420 Fest
This annual ode to music and great brews at Shirley Clarke Franklin Park will bring out heavy-hitting entertainers like Umphrey’s McGee, Thievery Corporation, Chromeo and Watchhouse to name a few.
Location: Northwest Atlanta - 660 Johnson Rd NW; Date: April 17-18; Admission: $47 and up; Time: 2-11 p.m. (Fri), noon to 11 p.m. (Sat); Website: sweetwater420fest.com
Plant Sale & Expo
Stroll through a vibrant outdoor market at Jim R. Miller Park filled with handmade crafts, tons of plants from all over and family-friendly activities everyone can enjoy.
Location: Marietta - 2245 Callaway Rd SW; Date: April 17-18; Admission: Free; Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Website: cobbmastergardeners.com
Cardi B: Little Miss Drama Tour
Cardi B is taking over State Farm Arena for a night packed with chart-topping hits and viral moments.
Location: Downtown Atlanta - 1 State Farm Dr; Date: April 17-18; Admission: Prices vary, see website; Time: 6:30-10 p.m.; Website: statefarmarena.com
Atlanta Home & Remodeling Show
Get inspired by hundreds of experts and designers at the Fall Atlanta Home Show at Atlanta Expo Center South. From kitchen and bathrooms to landscaping and smart homes, there’s something here for every project big or small.
Location: Southeast Atlanta - 3850 Jonesboro Rd; Date: April 17-19; Admission: Free; Time: Times vary, see website; Website: eventbrite.com
Pop-In for Family Fun: Mountain to Marietta
If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to spend the day with the kids then this is for you. Marietta History Center is hosting Pop-in for Family Fun and this month’s theme is Mountain to Marietta. Enjoy arts and crafts from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and free museum admission as well.
Location: Marietta - 1 Depot St; Date: April 18; Admission: Free; Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Website: mariettahistory.org
Chamblee Art Fest
Held in Downtown Chamblee, this free two-day event features local vendors, handmade crafts, food and live entertainment.
Location: Chamblee - 5468 Peachtree Rd; Date: April 18-19; Admission: Free; Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Sat), 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Sun); Website: splashfestivals.com
Big Shanty Festival
The streets of downtown Kennesaw will transform into a marketplace with vendors offering a wide range of arts, crafts and delicious food. Families can also enjoy carnival rides and games.
Location: Kennesaw - 2829 Cherokee St NW; Date: April 18-19; Admission: Free; Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Sat), noon to 5 p.m. (Sun); Website: kennesaw.com
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s Concert in the Park
Piedmont Park becomes an open-air concert hall where families and friends can watch the orchestra perform under the stars.
Location: Midtown Atlanta - 1320 Monroe Dr NE; Date: April 19; Admission: Free; Time: Starts at 6 p.m.; Website: aso.org
10 cool ways to spend your weekend in metro Atlanta: free festivals, …