Candler Park Fall Fest is the kind of Atlanta event that still feels like a block party, even when 20,000 people show up.
On Saturday, October 3, and Sunday, October 4, 2026, the park and surrounding streets in one of the city’s most walkable eastside neighborhoods fill with live music, an artist market, food trucks, kids’ attractions, and a 5K. Admission is free. The money raised goes back into the park.
That combination is why the festival has lasted. Founded in 2001 by the Candler Park Neighborhood Organization, Fall Fest is now in its 25th year. It skipped only the COVID year of 2020. Organizers have held it in rain and sun, on grass and pavement. The point has stayed the same: put on a good weekend, then use the proceeds for playground upgrades, Mulberry Fields, Mary Lin Elementary’s outdoor classroom, and other neighborhood projects. In recent years, nearly $200,000 from Fall Fest has gone into those improvements.
Candler Park Fall Festival 2026: Everything You Need To Know
Fall Fest is FREE and produced by the Candler Park Neighborhood Organization.
Artist market open 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. Music and food from noon until late.
5K and Fun Run Races
Run through the beautiful and challenging Candler Park neighborhood as we kick off Fall Fest. Starting Saturday morning (9/29) at 9:00am (registration begins at 7:30) the 5K will kick off, followed by the 1 mile Fun Run at 10 a.m.
Tour of Homes
In early October, the Tour of Homes took place, which showcased a wonderful collection of residences to view that will illustrate several of the values we share as a community.
One of the homes was rebuilt incorporating several aspects of sustainable living. They recycled many items of the previous structure, installed pecan floors created from a tree which grew in their backyard and included various natural elements in the construction of stone walls, all resulting in a stylish, spacious, comfortable, contemporary living space.
Many of the homes displayed their significant art collections, much created by local artists. Of course, we also consider our gardens part of the art world, so stay alert to the many forms of gardening that have been created. You may even notice that some of us have eliminated grass entirely from our landscapes.
Artists Market
Open 11:00 am to 7:00 pm Saturday and Sunday, the Fall Fest Artist Market is full of local artist and vendors that have been carefully curated just for you! With over 200+ booths, there is something for everyone! From handmade pottery and paintings to kids crafts and apparel, we know you will find just what you are looking all while supporting local businesses.
Final Word
So, the Candler Park Fall Fest boasts food trucks slinging everything from gourmet tacos to craft brews, paired with kids’ rides and live bands—drawing crowds for its unbeatable combo of flavor and family fun.
No Atlanta festival would be complete without a culinary showdown that leaves taste buds dancing. Our events are notorious for turning ordinary weekends into gourmet escapades, featuring everything from BBQ showdowns to international street eats.
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