Your metro Atlanta weekend game plan
Metro Atlanta is turning up the volume on fun. You’ll find family-friendly gems, fitness-fueled events and art outings you can’t miss. Here are 10 of the most exciting things to do this weekend.
And take note! Kroger makes back-to-school shopping simple, affordable, and convenient for families. With a wide selection of school supplies, snacks, and lunchbox essentials, it’s a one-stop shop for everything students need to start the year strong. Parents can find notebooks, pens, backpacks and more in seasonal displays, often at competitive prices or part of special promotions. Kroger also offers a variety of healthy and kid-friendly food options, including fresh produce, ready-to-eat meals and organic snacks.
For busy families, the Kroger app and online shopping services allow for easy ordering and curbside pickup or delivery. Weekly digital coupons and fuel rewards add even more value, helping families stick to their back-to-school budgets. Whether shopping in-store or online, Kroger aims to make the transition from summer to school stress-free and organized. With everything under one roof, back-to-school shopping at Kroger is convenient, cost-effective and family-friendly.
Harold and the Purple Crayon
The Center for Puppetry Arts is bringing Harold and the Purple Crayon to life. Experience the kind of storytelling that feels like walking inside your favorite childhood book. It’s next-level family theater that’s appealing to all ages.
Location: Midtown Atlanta - 1404 Spring St NW; Date: July 31-August 3; Admission: $22.50 and up; Time: Show times vary, see website; Website: puppet.org
Cobb International Film Festival
Head to The Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre for a weekend of films and back-to-back screenings. This festival offers filmmakers a platform to introduce their work and discuss topics shown in the film as well as the filmmaking process to encourage and create dialogue.
Location: Marietta - 117 N Park Square; Date: July 31-August 3; Admission: $15 and up; Time: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Website: cobbfilmfestival.com
Glow Nights at Georgia Aquarium
Georgia Aquarium transforms into a glowing wonderland for Glow Nights. Experience magic as the aquarium comes alive with glowing corals and exciting live performances.
Location: Downtown Atlanta - 225 Baker St NW; Date: Now through August 17; Admission: $50.49; Time: 4-9 p.m.; Website: georgiaaquarium.org
UNCRUEL SUMMER: A Girly Pop Dance Night
Get ready, Atlanta because MJQ Concourse is throwing the ultimate girl’s night out. Enjoy tunes from Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, Ariana Grande and more. It’s the perfect way to spend your Friday night.
Location: Downtown Atlanta - 736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE; Date: August 1; Admission: $18 and up; Time: 10:30-11:59 p.m.; Website: eventbrite.com
Atlanta Water Lantern Festival
Get ready for a night of fun at Jim R. Miller Park with live music, food trucks and lantern decorating stations.
Location: Marietta - 2245 Callaway Rd SW; Date: August 2; Admission: $30.99; Time: 6-10 p.m.; Website: waterlanternfestival.com
Back to School Bash
United Church is throwing a back to school bash for the kids so expect photo booths, bounce houses, face painting, and of course, free school supplies and backpacks for students in need.
Location: Southeast Atlanta - 1775 Water Pl; Date: August 2; Admission: Free; Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Website: united.online
MLB Speedway Classic
Need a weekend escape not too far from home? Head to Tennessee for the MLB Speedway Classic at Bristol Motor Speedway, where baseball fans can cheer on their favorite squad from the peach state.
Location: Bristol - 151 Speedway Blvd; Date: August 2; Admission: Prices vary, see website; Time: Game starts at 7 p.m.; Website: bristolmotorspeedway.com
Westside BeltLine 5K-8K
Get ready to lace up for the Westside BeltLine 5K & 8K. It’s a great way to spend your weekend and what’s great is they welcome racers of all levels. Whether you sprint or stroll, this race is worth it.
Location: Westside Beltline - 1020 White St SW; Date: August 2; Admission: $50; Time: Starts at 7 a.m.; Website: atlantatrackclub.org
Georgia VegFest
The plant-based party of the year just hit Cobb County Civic Center. From vegan soul food to cruelty-free products, this fest has something for everyone.
Location: Cobb - 548 South Marietta Pkwy SE; Date: August 2-3; Admission: Prices vary, see website; Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Website: vegfestexpos.com
18th Annual Jerry Day ATL
The 18th Annual Jerry Day ATL is going down at Terminal West and it’s about to be a full-on Grateful Dead celebration of Jerry Garcia’s life, music and legacy.
Location: West Midtown - 887 West Marietta St NW; Date: August 3 Admission: $57.44; Time: 3 p.m to midnight.; Website: terminalwestatl.com
An unusual name and history: Your city guide to Lilburn