Your Local Guide to Events Happening in Atlanta, GA

Atlanta always has something going on—whether you live in the city, commute in, or are visiting for a weekend. From major sports and concerts to neighborhood festivals and family-friendly activities, you can usually find an event any day of the week.

This guide walks through the main types of events in Atlanta, where they usually happen, how to find what’s going on this week or this weekend, and tips for getting around and planning ahead.

How to Find Events Happening in Atlanta Right Now

Because Atlanta’s event scene changes daily, the most useful approach is to know where and how to look.

Key ways locals keep up with Atlanta events

• Venue calendars
  Most major venues and museums maintain updated online calendars. Check:

  • State Farm Arena (downtown)
  • Mercedes-Benz Stadium (downtown)
  • Fox Theatre (Midtown)
  • Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre (Cumberland area)
  • Atlanta Symphony Hall (Midtown)

• Neighborhood and district sites
  Many Atlanta neighborhoods and districts promote their own events, especially:

  • Atlanta BeltLine (multiple segments around central Atlanta)
  • Ponce City Market (675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE)
  • Atlantic Station (1380 Atlantic Dr NW)
  • Westside Provisions District (1100 Howell Mill Rd NW)
  • Downtown Atlanta (Centennial Olympic Park / Peachtree Center area)

• City and county resources
  The City of Atlanta and surrounding counties often list public meetings, festivals, and community events:

  • City of Atlanta government: events, public hearings, and city-sponsored programs
  • Fulton County and DeKalb County pages for regional happenings

• Physical bulletin boards and signage
  You will often see current event flyers at:

  • Coffee shops and bookstores (especially in Little Five Points, Virginia-Highland, Decatur)
  • Community centers and public libraries
  • Recreation centers and parks offices

Major Event Types in Atlanta

1. Sports Events

Atlanta is a major sports city, with professional teams playing nearly year-round.

Main teams and venues:

• Atlanta Falcons (NFL)

  • Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, 1 AMB Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
  • Typical season: August–January (preseason through playoffs)

• Atlanta United FC (MLS)

  • Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
  • Typical season: February–October (plus playoffs)

• Atlanta Hawks (NBA)

  • Venue: State Farm Arena, 1 State Farm Dr, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • Typical season: October–April (plus playoffs)

• Atlanta Braves (MLB)

  • Venue: Truist Park, 755 Battery Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30339 (Cobb County, just outside city limits)
  • Typical season: April–September (plus playoffs)

What to know:

• Game days increase traffic significantly around downtown and the Battery area. Plan extra time or use MARTA.
• Many games have theme nights, fireworks, or fan giveaways.
• Even if you don’t go inside, areas around the stadiums (like The Battery Atlanta at Truist Park) often host pre- and post-game events, live music, and watch parties.

2. Concerts and Live Music

Atlanta has a reputation as a music hub, especially for hip-hop, R&B, and indie music, but you’ll find nearly every genre represented.

Key music venues in and around the city:

Tips for concert-goers in Atlanta:

• Parking can be limited, especially around Midtown, Downtown, and the BeltLine. Many locals use MARTA or rideshare.
• Some venues (like the Fox Theatre) have dressier crowds for certain events; others are casual.
• For events at outdoor amphitheaters (like Cellairis Amphitheatre at Lakewood or Chastain Park Amphitheatre), bring weather-appropriate clothing and check bag policies.

3. Festivals and Fairs

Atlanta is packed with festivals throughout the year, from neighborhood block parties to large regional events.

Common types of festivals:

• Music and arts festivals
  Often found in areas like Piedmont Park, Centennial Olympic Park, and along the Atlanta BeltLine.

• Food and drink festivals
  Showcasing local restaurants, food trucks, breweries, and regional cuisine.

• Cultural and heritage festivals
  Celebrating different communities and cultures across Atlanta.

• Neighborhood festivals
  Typical in places like:

  • Inman Park
  • Virginia-Highland
  • Grant Park
  • Candler Park These often include artist markets, live music, kids’ zones, and local food vendors.

Where festivals typically happen:

• Piedmont Park – Large city park in Midtown (1320 Monroe Dr NE). Hosts major art and cultural events.
• Centennial Olympic Park – Downtown green space often used for concerts and festivals.
• Grant Park – East of downtown; home to neighborhood events and festivals.
• Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail – Pop-up markets, art walks, and community events.
• Old Fourth Ward – Near Ponce City Market, with frequent pop-ups and outdoor events.

Because festival dates change year to year, it’s best to search by festival name plus “Atlanta” or check community calendars and park event listings when planning.

4. Theater, Comedy, and Performing Arts

If you’re interested in plays, dance, comedy, or classical music, Atlanta has a broad range of options.

Major performing arts spots:

• Fox Theatre – 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
  Hosts touring Broadway shows, concerts, and special events.

• Alliance Theatre – 1280 Peachtree St NE (inside Woodruff Arts Center)
  Known for professional theater productions and new works.

• Atlanta Symphony Orchestra – Atlanta Symphony Hall at Woodruff Arts Center, Midtown
  Regular performances of classical and contemporary music.

• Dad’s Garage Theatre – 569 Ezzard St SE
  Improv comedy and original shows in the Old Fourth Ward area.

• Local comedy clubs
  Various venues around Buckhead, Midtown, and the city host stand-up nights and touring comedians.

What locals often do:

• Combine a show with dinner in Midtown or Inman Park, especially when attending events at the Fox or Alliance Theatre.
• Check for rush tickets, student discounts, or weekday deals if schedules are flexible.

5. Family-Friendly and Kid-Focused Events

Atlanta offers many activities for families, especially on weekends and school breaks.

Popular family destinations with regular events:

• Georgia Aquarium

  • 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
  • Hosts themed days, educational programs, and occasional after-hours events.

• Zoo Atlanta

  • 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315 (Grant Park)
  • Offers seasonal programs, animal encounters, and family days.

• Fernbank Museum of Natural History

  • 767 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30307
  • Regular family programs, science days, and special exhibits.

• Children’s Museum of Atlanta

  • 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
  • Hands-on exhibits and rotating kid-centered events.

• Atlanta BeltLine

  • Multiple access points; family-friendly festivals, outdoor art, and fitness events.

Family planning tips:

• Weekends and school holidays are busiest, so consider morning arrivals.
• Check if you need advance tickets or timed entry, especially for major attractions during peak seasons.
• Many parks (like Piedmont Park, Grant Park, and Chastain Park) hold free or low-cost family events—check their rec center or online calendars.

6. Free and Low-Cost Events in Atlanta

If you’re trying to enjoy the city without spending a lot, Atlanta still gives you plenty of options.

Common free or low-cost event types:

• Outdoor movie nights in parks or at mixed-use developments (Atlantic Station, Colony Square, The Battery, etc.).
• Free concerts in public spaces during warmer months.
• Art walks and gallery nights in neighborhoods like Castleberry Hill or West Midtown.
• Farmer’s markets that feature live music and community activities, such as:
  • Grant Park
  • East Atlanta Village
  • Piedmont Green Market
• Library programs, including story times, workshops, and lectures at:
  • Atlanta-Fulton Public Library branches
  • DeKalb County Public Library branches

Money-saving tips:

• Look for weekday events, which are often less crowded and more affordable.
• Many city and county facilities offer free admission days or special events—checking their calendars can uncover good options.

7. Seasonal Events: What Happens When in Atlanta

Atlanta’s event calendar shifts with the seasons. This can help you narrow down what’s likely happening when you’re in town.

Spring (roughly March–May):

• Outdoor festivals and neighborhood fairs ramp up.
• Parks and gardens (like the Atlanta Botanical Garden) hold seasonal flower or garden events.
• Many 5K runs, races, and charity walks use routes in Midtown, Downtown, and along the BeltLine.

Summer (June–August):

• Concerts at outdoor venues and parks.
• Fireworks and Independence Day events in and around the city.
• Evening events to beat the heat: outdoor movies, night markets, and extended museum hours.

Fall (September–November):

• Some of the biggest festivals of the year, especially arts and neighborhood celebrations.
• College football events in and around downtown.
• Halloween-themed events at attractions, neighborhoods, and parks.

Winter (December–February):

• Holiday light displays at major attractions and some neighborhoods.
• Seasonal markets and ice skating rinks at select locations.
• New Year’s celebrations and indoor concerts or performances.

Practical Tips for Attending Events in Atlanta

Getting There: Transportation and Parking

• MARTA (rail and bus)

  • Convenient for events near:
    • Downtown (State Farm Arena, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Centennial Olympic Park)
    • Midtown (Fox Theatre, Woodruff Arts Center, Piedmont Park access)
    • Buckhead (shopping and some event spaces)
  • Using MARTA can help you avoid event parking fees and traffic near major venues.

• Driving and parking

  • Many venues use paid lots or garages; costs can be higher during big events.
  • Downtown and Midtown garages fill quickly on game and concert nights—arrive early.
  • Read street signs carefully; some streets convert to event or tow-away zones.

• Rideshare and taxis

  • Commonly used for night events or when parking is limited.
  • Venues often have designated pickup/drop-off zones—following the signs usually saves time.

Safety and Comfort

• Check bag policies and prohibited items before heading to a major event.
• Outdoor events in Atlanta can be hot and humid in summer, so bring water and sun protection.
• For late-night events, stay in well-lit, busy areas and plan your transportation in advance.

Where to Look Next When You Want “What’s Happening in Atlanta Today”

To quickly see what’s happening in Atlanta on a specific day or weekend, most residents use a combination of:

• Venue calendars (stadiums, theaters, museums)
• Neighborhood and district event listings (BeltLine, Midtown, Downtown, major mixed-use centers)
• City or county event pages for public, cultural, and family events
• Local bulletin boards and library/community center postings for grassroots and free activities

By focusing on where events usually cluster—Downtown, Midtown, the BeltLine, West Midtown, Grant Park, and major parks—you can almost always find something to do, whether you want a big-ticket concert, a free outdoor movie, a neighborhood festival, or a family-friendly activity.

Use these patterns and locations as your starting points, then narrow down by your dates, budget, and interests to find the best events happening in Atlanta for you.