Discover the best things to do in Atlanta, Georgia with this Atlanta Event Calendar! Month by month, browse the best things to do in the ATL – from festivals, live music, and amazing eats to family activities, seasonal celebrations, and so much more!

Whether you’re a local or visiting Atlanta, this post is your guide to major events happening in the city throughout the year. Read on to find the best Atlanta activities!

Atlanta Event Calendar: Highlights

Read on for additional details on these events, and more fun ideas!

Honor MLK Day in his hometown of Atlanta
Taste the best of the South at the Beer, Bourbon, & BBQ Festival
Light up the night with the Beltline Lantern Parade
Rock out to amazing musical artists at some of the South’s biggest music festivals
Explore local neighborhoods through art, food, and museums
Run the world’s largest 10k race (6.2 miles) with the Atlanta Track Club!

In this post, you’ll find:

Atlanta event calendar: January-December
Ideas to enjoy Atlanta during every season
Events and activities for individuals, friends, couples, and coworkers
Family friendly Atlanta events
Fun things to do across Atlanta’s neighborhoods
Must-see Atlanta festivals and park offers

Atlanta Events Calendar

January Atlanta Activities

1. Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is honored on the third Monday in January each year. Honor Dr. King’s life and legacy during January on Unexpected Atlanta’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Atlanta History Tour – named by Conde Nast as one of the best things to do in Atlanta!

2. Lunar New Year Festival

Celebrate the Lunar New Year at “the largest Lunar New Year Spectacular in North America.” Head to Stone Mountain Park for this event featuring a drone show and light show, cultural craft activities, storytelling, puppetry, dance and drum exhibitions, parades, and other activities.

3. Atlanta Boat Show

Dreaming of the lake in the middle of January? Head to the Atlanta Boat Show at the Georgia World Congress Center! From sailing seminars to live performances and a kids’ zone, this is a unique event for midwinter fun.

February in Atlanta

4. Atlanta Jewish Film Festival

Each year, the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival is a unique and exciting event for cinephiles, members and friends of the Jewish community, and all those who wish to join. Explore the magic of film through the lenses of Jewish directors, writers, producers, actors, and other creatives!

5. Atlanta Winter Beer Festival

Warm up at the Atlanta Winter Beer Fest, serving plenty of brews and fun at Atlantic Station. Purchase a ticket to sample more than 150 beers – including local brews as well as sips from breweries around the country.

6. Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival

Also at Atlantic Station, the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival takes place at the end of every February. Tickets include beer and bourbon tastings, along with a souvenir pint glass!

7. Orchid Daze

Orchid Daze is a beloved annual orchid exhibition at the Atlanta Botanical Garden in Midtown Atlanta. Here, see thousands of beautiful, fragrant orchids in bloom from the middle of February through early April.

March Atlanta Events

8. Georgia Food + Wine Festival

Savor bites and sips at the Georgia Food + Wine Festival in Marietta. This annual festival features food and drink from across the state and the South, serving plenty of flavors and pours for every taste bud!

9. Atlanta St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Join fun St. Patrick’s festivities happening across the city, like the Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade! Great for all ages, this parade features floats, drum corps, bagpipes, and more through the streets of Midtown.

10. Atlanta Science Festival

The Atlanta Science Festival, engineered by Science Atlanta, is an annual tradition! With over 150 engaging events spanning the course of a week, learn about the natural world, agriculture, robots, STEAM careers, and more!

April Activities: Atlanta in Bloom!

Spend the day in Piedmont Park in Midtown at the Atlanta Dogwood Festival. Beloved for over 80 years, this immersive festival is host to a nationally-renowned artist market showcasing sculptures, paintings, pottery, jewelry, photography, and more!

12. Atlanta Film Festival

Spring in the city is also home to one of the region’s largest and longest-running celebrations of cinema. The Atlanta Film Festival features a plethora of film genres from independent, documentary, animated, short films, and more!

13. Georgia Renaissance Festival

Join the hundreds of festival-goers each year traveling back to medieval Europe at the Georgia Renaissance Festival! Here, be immersed amongst costumes and characters galore!

The Sweetwater 420 Fest is an annual spring music festival held in Atlanta, hosted by Sweetwater Brewing Company. The festival features a diverse lineup with acts from rock and blues to funk, reggae, and EDM.

May Things to Do in Atlanta

15. Atlanta Jazz Festival

The Atlanta Jazz Festival is an annual celebration of music, culture, and the art of Jazz, in Piedmont Park. Free to all who join, this Memorial Day Weekend event draws fans, professional musicians, and everyone in between, for a 3-day-long festival showcasing 15+ artists.

16. Shaky Knees Music Festival

The Shaky Knees Music Festival is an annual spring music festival featuring a diverse lineup with over 60 rock acts. Located in Central Park in the Old Fourth Ward neighborhood, enjoy live music, vendors, food trucks, activities, and more!

17. Sweet Auburn Springfest

Explore a historic Atlanta neighborhood at the annual Sweet Auburn Springfest! Going on more than 25 years, this celebration hosts live entertainment, activities for every age, and sweet fun together in the sun!

18. Beltline Lantern Parade

The Atlanta BeltLine Lantern Parade features hundreds of lanterns from the creative community! Enjoy an evening after-dark, outdoors alongside thousands of others to see lantern puppets, homemade lanterns, and more showcasing Atlanta’s bustling art scene.

June Atlanta Festivals & Activities

19. Celebrate Pride Month

While Atlanta Pride takes place during the month of October, Pride Month is celebrated in June around the world! Take part in celebrating by exploring the city’s many LGBTQIA+ businesses, events, and more, like the Atlanta Pride Run!

20. Honor Juneteenth

With many deep ties to the Civil Rights movement, our city is a prime spot to learn about and celebrate Juneteenth on June 19 each year. The main event: the Juneteenth Atlanta Parade and Music Festival!

21. Atlanta Summer Beer Fest

Hosted in the Historic Fourth Ward neighborhood, enjoy tastes of more than 150 beers and wines, including those from local breweries and throughout the Southeast. Plus, enjoy live music, activities, food vendors, and more!

Head to the Virginia Highland neighborhood for the annual Summerfest! This eclectic, family fun festival includes food vendors, art, and live music from local and national talent.

July: Atlanta Summer Activities

23. Atlanta Ice Cream Festival

Beat the summer heat by attending the ever-loved Atlanta Ice Cream Festival! Hosted in Piedmont Park, enjoy a full day of tasting more than 85 ice cream options and other fun activities.

24. Peachtree Road Race

Join the world’s largest 10k alongside over 60,000 runners, walkers, and road race enthusiasts! No matter your speed, this event is all about challenging yourself, having fun, and feeling a sense of accomplishment as you exercise through Atlanta.

August Atlanta Ideas

The Piedmont Park Arts Festival is a vibrant celebration of creativity, bringing together a diverse range of artists and artisans. While attending, explore a rich tapestry of visual arts, crafts, live performances, and interactive exhibits that showcase immense talent and cultural diversity.

26. Atlanta Underground Film Festival

With its diverse selection of films spanning various genres, the Atlanta Underground Film Festival promises an enriching cinematic experience. Across four days, connect, network, and immerse yourself in a creative atmosphere that celebrates independent cinema.

The Summer Shade Festival is a must-attend event that captures the essence of summer and community spirit. Here, immerse yourself in a weekend filled with live music, local art, delicious food, and engaging entertainment, set against the backdrop of beautiful Grant Park.

September Atlanta Events

The Yellow Daisy Festival is a premier event that celebrates art, crafts, and the beauty of nature. At this four day event, find handmade crafts, jewelry, and artwork, surrounded by the vibrant hues of yellow daisies that fill the festival grounds.

29. Music Festivals

September is a music festival-lover’s dream in Atlanta! Enjoy a range of genres and artists across these must-see outdoor music festivals:

Music Midtown, hosted in Piedmont Park
Imagine Music Festival, hosted at Atlanta Motor Speedway
ONE Musicfest, hosted in Piedmont Park

30. Dragon Con

Dragon Con is an epic gathering that attracts fans of science fiction, fantasy, gaming, and pop culture from all over the world. At this multi-genre celebration, encounter a variety of panels, workshops, costume contests, celebrity appearances, and social events.

From thought-provoking dramas to hilarious comedies, the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival offers a wide range of theatrical experiences that are both entertaining and enlightening. This festival promises a powerful and memorable experience that showcases the richness and vibrancy of Black storytelling.

October Events: Atlanta’s Spooky Season

32. Little 5 Points Halloween Festival & Parade

Whether you’re seeking a thrilling night out or a family-friendly event, the Little 5 Points Halloween Festival & Parade is the perfect destination for Halloween enthusiasts of all ages. Enjoy live music, street performers, food vendors, and an energetic parade!

33. Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade

The Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade is a vibrant event that celebrates and supports the LGBTQ+ community. By attending, be a part of a joyful and inclusive atmosphere where diversity, equality, and love are celebrated.

34. Taste of Atlanta

The Taste of Atlanta is a culinary extravaganza that brings together the city’s top restaurants, chefs, and food enthusiasts for a delectable experience. Embark on a culinary journey, sampling a wide array of dishes, flavors, and cuisines that highlight the city’s diverse culinary scene.

35. Atlanta Fair

Each year, the Atlanta Fair is an exciting event for thrill seekers, carnival lovers, and all those who enjoy a good funnel cake. Explore the magic of the fair with classic carnival games, tasty fair food, exhilarating rides, and attractions for all ages.

November: Thankful for ATL

36. Cabbagetown Chomp and Stomp

Calling all chili aficionados and lovers of live music! The Cabbagetown Chomp and Stomp is a must-attend event with its chili cook-off, cornbread competition, kids’ activities, a festive parade, and more!

37. Chastain Park Fall Arts Festival

Head to the Chastain Park Amphitheater in November for the sensational Chastain Arts and Craft Festival! Rich in culture, explore more than 500 exhibitors featuring fine painters, photographers, glass blowers, sculptors, jewelers, and more!

38. Atlanta Christkindlmarkt

The Atlanta Christkindlmarkt is a magical and festive event that brings the enchantment of a traditional German Christmas market to Atlanta. Here, be immersed in holiday spirit, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and flavors of a European-style Christmas market!

December: Celebrate the Season

39. Ice Skating

Ice skating holds a special place in winter traditions and festivities. Check out Atlanta’s top ice skate rinks for seasonal, holiday fun:

Pullman Yards, on the edges of Kirkwood and Edgewood
Skate the Station, at Atlantic Station
Skate the Sky, on the Roof at Ponce City Market
The Rink, at Park Tavern

40. Holiday Light Shows

There are several amazing light shows in Atlanta each winter. All are designed to dazzle you and put you in the holiday spirit. Check out the top spots:

Garden Lights, Holiday Nights, at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
Holiday in the Park, at Six Flags Over Georgia
IllumiNights at the Zoo: A Chinese Lantern Festival, at Zoo Atlanta
ATL Lights, at Lakewood Amphitheater

41. Year-Round Fun

For more unforgettable Atlanta fun, check out these year-round Atlanta activities!

Browse travel site Kayak’s Atlanta Activity Guide for details on popular Atlanta spots like the World of Coca-Cola, Fox Theatre – plus restaurants, hotels, and more!
Check out Unexpected Atlanta’s unique walking tours – including food and history experiences you won’t find anywhere else
Ride the Atlanta Ferris Wheel
Enjoy art at the High Museum of Art
See a show at the Center for Puppetry Arts
Catch sun rays at Centennial Olympic Park
Play mini golf at Ponce City Market
View animals up close like giant pandas at Zoo Atlanta and whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium
Venture through the Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Atlanta Event Calendar: The Best Things to Do All Year!