-
As the crisp Georgia autumn air settles in, Alpharetta’s Avalon is set to transform into a haven of handmade magic this weekend. The Makers Market Local Artist Fair makes its triumphant return on Sunday, October 12, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., inviting families, pet lovers, and savvy shoppers to dive into a world of local creativity just in time for Halloween haunts and early holiday hunts.
This kid- and pet-friendly extravaganza – free to all – promises a cozy escape amid Avalon’s tree-lined boulevards, where over 30 Georgia-based artisans will showcase their one-of-a-kind wares.
From shimmering handmade jewelry and permanent jewelry stations to intricately carved woodwork, scented soy candles, and apothecary elixirs, the fair is a treasure trove for those seeking thoughtful gifts or seasonal accents. Crochet enthusiasts will swoon over plush amigurumi toys, while plant parents can snag unique terrariums and succulents.
Pet owners, take note: Adorable accessories like custom collars and bandanas ensure your furry friends get in on the fun, too.
The fair’s timing couldn’t be sweeter, bridging spooky October vibes with the glow of impending festivities – think pumpkin-spiced home goods and festive art prints ready to deck the halls.
Adding to the charm? Live music from Alpharetta’s own Frank Whitaker, the singer-songwriter whose soulful covers of Grateful Dead classics and original tunes have made him a staple in the local scene. Fresh off gigs at Truck & Tap, Whitaker will strum and croon from the market stage, creating an easygoing soundtrack to your browsing.
But the fun doesn’t stop at the stalls. Adjacent to the action, the Makers Market store beckons with even more handmade delights from over 100 artists nationwide – everything from whimsical ceramics to bespoke leather goods. It’s the ultimate one-stop shop for those who want to support small businesses without the hassle.
Where Will the Makers Market Be Held?
The Makers Market will take place at 2200 Avalon Blvd Alpharetta, GA 30009. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Whether you’re hunting for a unique Halloween costume accessory or scouting early Black Friday steals, this fair embodies the heart of Atlanta’s vibrant maker community. With no admission fee and ample parking at Avalon, it’s an effortless outing for all ages.
Keen to join? RSVP via Eventbrite for updates, vendor spotlights, and exclusive perks straight from Makers Market. Doors – or rather, booths – open at 11 a.m. on October 12. See you there, Atlanta – let’s make some memories, one handmade find at a time.
More From AtlantaFi.com:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
-
Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is not only the world’s busiest, but it’s one of the most affordable. (Yes, its parking fees are below what many regional airports charge). You’d think it was an expensive airport, but you can save money if you know how.
In this article, I’ll show you how to fly out of Hartsfield-Jackson airport for less.
How To Get A Cheap Flight At Hartsfield In Atlanta
Really the only airline with a real hub at Hartsfield, is Delta Air Lines, which is based in Atlanta. But there are other airlines that have made flights out of Atlanta a major focus. They are:
- Frontier Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Spirit Airlines
Here’s how to get cheap flights out of Hartsfield: Instead of Kayak or Expedia, Use Google Flights.
- How To Track Airfare With Google Flights Price Alerts
- How To Set Filters On Google Flights
- Use Google Flights Explore
Be aware that some of the flights you see will be for economy or basic economy fares, so you’ll want to watch that.
1. How To Track Airfare At Hartsfield
You can track the prices of your airfare by setting up Google Flights price alerts. Here’s how to set up a price alert:
To do that, put in your origin and destination airports and add the dates you’d like to travel. You’ll see a Track Prices button that you can toggle and it will send you emails as prices fluctuate.
2. Use Google Flights Filters
To get the flight that you want, you can use an array of filters on Google Flights.
- Bags
- Stops
- Airlines
- Price
- Times
- Connecting Airports
3. Don’t Know Where To Go? Use Google Flights Explore
The secret to snagging low fares from ATL? Flexibility and foresight. Data shows Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays are the cheapest days to fly out, often 13% less than weekend jaunts, thanks to lighter business crowds. For domestic trips, book in September – the sweet spot for deals on routes to New York or Miami, where you might score round-trips under $100. International flyers, target August bookings for Europe or the Caribbean.
Pro tip: Ditch Kayak or Expedia for Google Flights – it tracks price drops and alerts you to the best windows, like 34-86 days out for Delta routes to JFK, potentially saving 25%. And don’t sleep on off-peak times: Midday flights (10 a.m.-3 p.m.) can dip 15% lower than red-eye or morning rushes. Tools like Hopper or Skyscanner can predict these dips with eerie accuracy.
The beautiful thing about Google Flights, is that you can use Google Flights Explore to find cheap flights out of Atlanta.
The key to finding a good price is not have any destination in mind. Let Google Explore show you the cheapest airfare and you can score a great deal.
To use Google Explore, type in your home airport (you can put Atlanta or ATL), and leave the departure box blank. Once you search, the Google Flights Explore map will show you all the cheap flights that you can fly to from Atlanta.
Once you book your travel on Google Flights, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip knowing that you took advantage of one of the great ways to save money.
Consider Carry-On Bags
Baggage fees can devour $60 round-trip on budget carriers, but at ATL, you can outsmart them. Carry-on only? Most airlines (including Delta) let you for free – just measure that roller at 22x14x9 inches.
For checked bags, Delta SkyMiles cardholders get their first one gratis, saving up to $70 per round-trip.Seating? Skip paying $20-50 for “preferred” spots; use the app’s free seat map post-check-in.
And for families, the international terminal’s security lines are a ghost town compared to domestic – breeze through in half the time, no CLEAR subscription needed (though the $78 annual pass shaves minutes during peaks).
Ground Game: MARTA Over Uber, Park Like a Local
Getting to ATL shouldn’t break the bank – a taxi or Uber from Midtown runs $40-60, but the MARTA Red or Gold line zips you from Five Points for just $2.50, door-to-door in 20 minutes.
It’s cleaner, faster, and ad-free – perfect for bleary-eyed early flights.Parking pros: Reserve spots via the ATL app for $9-14 daily in the Hourly Deck, beating walk-up rates by 20%.
Economy lots? As low as $7/day if booked ahead. Pro hack: Drop off at the Ground Transportation Plaza and shuttle in for free, dodging terminal traffic.
Cards in Your Wallet: Turn Everyday Spends into Free Flights
Nothing beats credit cards for ATL savings – especially Delta-focused ones. The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card waives the first checked bag and offers a $120 resale credit for partners like CLEAR, with a welcome bonus of 50,000 miles after $3,000 spend (enough for a round-trip to NYC).
For broader play, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card earns flexible points transferable to Delta, plus a $50 annual hotel credit – ideal for layovers.Budget option: Capital One Venture Rewards nets 75,000 miles after $4,000 spend, wiping out a domestic fare outright.
Always pay in full to avoid interest, and compare via sites like NerdWallet for 2025 perks.In a city where skies are always calling, these tweaks can turn a $500 weekend getaway into a $350 steal.
ATL’s chaos is part of the charm – but with a little strategy, your next takeoff won’t lighten your load. Safe travels, Atlanta; the runway’s yours.
How Cheap Are Flights From Atlanta Right Now?
- Atlanta to New Orleans – $83
- Atlanta to Las Vegas- $142
- Atlanta to Miami – $58
- Atlanta to New York – $92
Now it’s time to make sure your travel packing list is in order. Once you get your passport, you should be ready for your trip. Make sure you have found the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale.
More From AtlantaFi.com:
-
It’s chili season — and that means it’s time for the best to compete with the rest. The Douglasville Cultural Arts Council (CAC) Annual Chili Cook Off is set for October 18th, 6-9 PM, at O’Neal Plaza in downtown Douglasville.
Meet the final two of over 20 chili chefs vying for Best Chili, Most Spicy, and Most Sold titles!
Sharberry Kitchen, a local Chicago-style restaurant, is back after past wins and is a top contender for Most Sold in 2025.
A local rivalry brews as Douglasville Parks & Recreation faces off against the County parks team to see who sells more chili.
All the Things: Explore Metro Atlanta
First, to find all the cool things happening in Atlanta this weekend, all you have to do is take a look at downtown area. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. Downtown Atlanta or Midtown Atlanta often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
-
The 18th Annual Atlanta Arab Festival, a beloved staple of the local cultural calendar, is set to unfold over the first weekend of October, offering families, foodies, and culture enthusiasts a free dive into the rich tapestry of Arab traditions.
Atlanta Arab Festival Brings Vibrant Arab Culture to DeKalb County
Hosted by the Alif Institute, the festival will take place on Saturday, October 4, and Sunday, October 5, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day at the institute’s campus at 3288 Marjan Drive in Atlanta’s DeKalb County. Free parking is available, with attendees directed to follow signs along Presidential Parkway for easy access. The event is open to the public at no cost, making it an accessible outing for all ages and backgrounds.
Now in its 18th year, the Atlanta Arab Festival has grown from humble beginnings—drawing just 300 visitors in its early days—to a major draw that welcomed over 8,000 attendees in 2024.
Organized by the Alif Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering understanding and preservation of Arab cultures, the festival serves as a vibrant platform for cultural exchange. It highlights the contributions of Arab-American artists, artisans, businesses, and nonprofits, while inviting the broader Atlanta community to partake in the festivities.
Expect a weekend packed with sensory delights and interactive experiences. The main stage will feature unique live performances showcasing Arabic music and dance, transporting visitors from the bustling streets of Cairo to the rhythmic beats of Beirut.
Food lovers can embark on a culinary tour at the Arab world food court, sampling authentic dishes from top local Arabic restaurants and caterers—think shawarma wraps, baklava sweets, and aromatic spices that fill the air with mouthwatering promise.For shoppers, the bustling souq (market) offers a treasure trove of handmade crafts, jewelry, and artisanal goods from Arab artisans.
Families won’t want to miss the exhibits, workshops, and games designed for all ages, including a special skills challenge hosted by Georgia Soccer to get kids moving and inspired on the field. Note that the event maintains a family-friendly atmosphere: pets, smoking, alcohol, weapons, and unauthorized promotional materials are not permitted.”
The Atlanta Arab Festival is more than an event—it’s a bridge that connects our diverse communities through shared stories, flavors, and rhythms,” said Alif Institute representatives in a recent announcement.
This year’s edition continues the institute’s mission to build lasting connections in Atlanta’s multicultural landscape.
Final Word
Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the festival for the first time, this two-day extravaganza promises to be a highlight of the fall season. For more details or to plan your visit, head to the Alif Institute’s website or email festival@alifinstitute.org. Mark your calendars—culture awaits in DeKalb County!
As the crisp air of fall sweeps through the Peach State, there’s no better time to dive into what makes Atlanta the festival capital of the South. From sun-soaked summer bashes to cozy autumn gatherings, our city’s event calendar is a whirlwind of music, flavors, art, and community spirit that keeps locals and visitors coming back year after year.
Whether you’re craving a soul-stirring jazz set, a plate of mouthwatering global cuisine, or just a day out with the family under colorful autumn leaves, Atlanta’s festivals deliver non-stop joy. But what exactly turns these gatherings into unforgettable adventures? Let’s break it down.
Check out our Atlanta Festival Guide.
More Content From AtlantaFi.com:
-
At the heart of Atlanta’s festival magic is its incredible diversity. This city thrives on blending Southern hospitality with international flair, creating events that feel like a passport stamp without leaving Georgia.
In this article, I’m going to show you the best fall festivals to attend in Georgia. Let’s jump right into the fun.
Here Are The Best Georgia Fall Festivals
In this article, we’ll look at some of the best Georgia festivals you can attend this fall.
Candler Park Fall Festival
Fall Fest 2025 is happening in Candler Park. This year, the festival takes. place on Saturday & Sunday, October 4 & 5. Read more.
Atlanta Arab Festival
The Atlanta Arab Festival is set to unfold over the first weekend of October, offering families, foodies, and culture enthusiasts a free dive into the rich tapestry of Arab traditions.
Atlanta Fall Wine Festival
Photo credit: Atlanta Wine Festivals The Atlanta Fall Wine Festival is happening Nov. 15 in Old Fourth Ward just across the street from Ponce City Market (whoohoo!) and it runs from 1 pm-5 pm.
Atlanta Mimosa Festival
Photo credit: Atlanta Mimosa Festival Food and drink have never looked more fun than at the Atlanta Mimosa Festival, which takes place this Oct. 18, 2025 in October in Georgia’s biggest city.
Date & Time:
- Session 1: 12pm-4pm
- Session 2: 6pm-10pm
Location:
Old Fourth Ward Skate Park, 830 Willoughby Way NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Georgia Shrimp & Grits Festival
The Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival, a celebration of Wild Georgia Shrimp, is scheduled for October 24-25, 2025. This popular, award-winning event will take place in Jekyll Island’s Historic District and will feature live music, an artists’ market, family-friendly entertainment, guest chefs, and a craft brew fest. The festival is free to attend, though there is a parking fee for Jekyll Island.
Oktoberfest
Photo credit: Pixabay
When the weather starts to get a bit cool, throngs of people are going to flock to Helen, Georgia in North Georgia for Oktoberfest.
Dates: September 4–November 2, 2025 (weekends through September, then daily from September 25)
Location: Downtown Helen (about 1.5 hours north of Atlanta)Prost to Georgia’s longest-running Oktoberfest, celebrating its 55th anniversary with an extra week of revelry! Immerse yourself in this Bavarian village’s alpine charm with authentic German beers, oompah bands, folk dancers, and hearty eats like bratwurst and pretzels. Parades, yodeling contests, and lederhosen-clad crowds make it a lively escape—perfect for a romantic weekend or group outing. Entry is free, but beer gardens charge per mug.
Taste & Brews Fall Fest
Taste & Brews Fall Fest comes to Canton, Ga., the second weekend in September. It features live music, and of course, brews and BBQ.
Date & Time:
Saturday, September 13th, 2025 · 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. · Sunday, September 14th, 2025 · 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Georgia Farm Fall Activities
Photo credit: Frances Gunn / Unsplash If you want to visit a Georgia farm this year, festivals are a great recreational activity — they also provide food! Here are some farm festivals in Georgia you don’t want to miss.
- Apple Pickin’ Jubilee at Hillcrest Orchards — Through Nov. 2, 2025
- Mitcham Farm Pumpkin Festival — Saturday, October 7, 2025, Noon-6PM*
- Southern Bell Farm — Through Nov. 2, 2025
Final Word
For family and friends, there are a lot of fun things you can do with your family in Atlanta in North Georgia and across the state.
There are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
-
As fall colors begin to paint the city, Atlanta’s vibrant Upper Westside is set to transform Howell Mill Road into a pedestrian paradise for the third annual Westside Stride block party.
Though anticipation has been building for the event’s original Oct. 4 slot, organizers announced a slight shift to Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, ensuring families and friends can kick off the weekend with a full afternoon of community fun from noon to 6 p.m.
Inspired by the successful Atlanta Streets Alive series, Westside Stride closes a bustling stretch of Howell Mill Road to cars, inviting residents to reclaim the pavement on foot, bike, scooter, or stroller.
Check out where to eat in West Midtown Atlanta.
This year’s route spans from 8th Street to Trabert Avenue, with an extension along parts of 17th Street, creating over a mile of car-free space for exploration and enjoyment.
“Westside Stride is more than just a street closure—it’s a celebration of our neighborhood’s growth, connectivity, and spirit,” said Adeline Collot, program director for the Upper Westside Community Improvement District (CID), the event’s primary organizer.
2025 Westside Stride Music Schedule
17th Street Stage
Sponsored by QTS
Noon — The Dappled Grays
2 p.m. — BOOM! Trio ft. Lavahi
4 p.m. — Sarah Nova Band
Huff Road DJ
Sponsored by Mabra Law
Noon — DJ Chops
3 p.m. — DJ Steve
Brady Avenue Stage
Sponsored by Northside Tavern
12:30 p.m. — Nathalie Rose Band
3 p.m. — Band X
9th Street DJ
Noon -3 p.m. — DJ iLL Withers Turnin’ n’ Burnin’ with DJ Bottom Shelf
3-6 p.m. — Disc Jockey Bottom Shelf with Raina & Jade
Edgehill Ave DJ
Noon – 6 p.m.— DJ Alex Heisey sponsored by Ga Followers
The CID, a nonprofit formed by local property owners, uses the festival to highlight ongoing efforts to enhance walkability, bikeability, and safety in the area.
“Our streets aren’t getting wider, but events like this show how we can move more efficiently and joyfully through our community.”
Expect a feast for the senses: live music stages featuring local Atlanta artists, a bustling vendor and artisan market showcasing handmade goods and crafts, and a lineup of culinary pop-ups from beloved Westside eateries.
Food trucks and interactive demos will offer everything from gourmet tacos to sweet treats, while children’s activities—including face painting, games, and bounce houses—ensure the little ones stay entertained.
The event underscores the Upper Westside’s evolution into a dynamic hub, home to trendy spots like the Works development and the BeltLine’s western extension.
Last year’s gathering drew thousands, fostering connections among neighbors and newcomers alike. This edition promises even more energy, with expanded green spaces for picnics and yoga sessions amid the festivities.
Admission is free, and no registration is required—simply show up ready to stride.
Organizers encourage eco-friendly transport: park at nearby garages like those at Atlantic Station or the Westside Provisions District, then pedal or walk in. Bicycles, skateboards, and rollerblades are all welcome, but remember to wear helmets and follow posted guidelines for a safe time.
Final Word
Westside Atlanta has made some recent upgrades, and city officials are refocused on revitalizing the area’s historic core. These changes reflect a broader effort to make the Upper Westside more vibrant, walkable, and economically robust, particularly in preparation for events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
More Content From AtlantaFi.com:
- Centennial Yards: 50-Acre Redevelopment of the Gulch
- What Is The Average Cost of an Atlanta Home?
- The Most Fun Things To Do in Centennial Park
- Best Tattoo Shops in Atlanta
For those eager to dive deeper, the official Westside Stride website offers a full schedule, vendor list, and volunteer opportunities. Follow @WestsideStrideATL on social media for real-time updates as the big day approaches.
Mark your calendars for Oct. 5 and join the stride—Atlanta’s Westside is waiting to welcome you home.
-
The inaugural Soul Symphony Weekend, is happening now, from September 19 to September 21, 2025, sponsored by Bentley Atlanta.
The multiday event presented by the Miguel Wilson Collection and the Ride to the Olympics Foundation reimagines the Atlanta Fashion & Polo Classic.
This three-day event features a golf outing, a black-tie orchestra experience, musical performances, a fashion show, and polo matches, highlighting two historic teams co-founded by Miguel Wilson: the Morehouse Polo Club, the first HBCU polo team, and Atlanta’s BEST Academy Polo Team, the first all-Black high school polo team.
When Is Soul Symphony Weekend?
The weekend begins Friday, September 19, with the Soul Symphony Golf Outing at Eagles Landing Country Club and a Welcome Party at the Kimpton Overland Hotel rooftop.
On Saturday, September 20, the Black Tie Soul Symphony at Enon Ranch offers an elegant evening with a live fashion show, performances by the Soul Symphony Orchestra, composer Camden Stewart, singers Kevin Ross, Syleena Johnson, Madelyn Brené, and Brady Turner, with Maryland Governor Wes Moore as a special guest.
The weekend concludes on Sunday, September 21, with the Atlanta Polo Party at Bouckaert Farm, featuring gourmet food, cocktails, live music, and equestrian exhibitions.
Attendees are encouraged to wear derby attire.
Notable past attendees include Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Frank Ski, Pastor Jamal Bryant, Young Jeezy, Nene Leakes, Cynthia Bailey, Sheree Whitfield, Egypt Sherrod, Mike Jackson, Q Parker, RL, and Waka Flocka.
Immerse Yourself In Your Atlanta
Atlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
-
Atlanta’s vibrant music scene is gearing up for another unforgettable weekend as the Shaky Knees Music Festival makes its triumphant return. You won’t want to miss it! The outdoors event is one of Atlanta’s best festivals.
For the first time in its history, the beloved three-day event will take over the iconic Piedmont Park, shifting from its traditional spring slot in May to a fresh fall edition. This change promises cooler temperatures, stunning autumn views of the park’s rolling hills and skyline backdrop, and an even more immersive experience for rock, indie, and alternative fans from across the Southeast and beyond.
Shaky Knees Festival: What To Know Before You Go
If you’re interested in going, you know traffic is going to be a bear. The festival organizers are encouraging fest-goers to use public transit! Getting to the festival is easy when using MARTA.
The Shaky Knees Festival Box Office is located at the corner of North Ave NE & Central Park Place NE and will be open.
When Is The Shaky Knees Festival Taking Place This Year?
The Shaky Knees Festival is happening at Central Park in Midtown Atlanta on May 3-5, 2024. Here are the hours:
- Friday, Sept. 19 — 11:30am – 7pm
- Saturday, Sept. 20 — 10am – 10pm
- Sunday, Sept. 21 — 10am – 9pm
Music Lineup: Who’s Performing At The Shaky Knees Festival?
This year’s music lineup for the Shaky Knees Festival includes the following acts: Queens of the Stone Age, Foo Fighters, Noah Kahan and Weezer.
The full lineup features over 60 acts across four stages. While the official daily schedule is available on the festival website, here’s a comprehensive list of confirmed performers based on announcements:
- My Chemical Romance (Headliner – Friday)
- Blink-182 (Headliner – Saturday)
- Deftones (Headliner – Sunday)
- Vampire Weekend
- Lenny Kravitz
- Cage the Elephant
- Alabama Shakes
- The Black Keys
- Sublime
- “Weird Al” Yankovic
- The Marías
- Public Enemy
- Lucy Dacus
- Devo
- Pixies
- The Backseat Lovers
- TV On The Radio
- The All-American Rejects
- IDLES
- Spoon
- Stereophonics
- Wet Leg
- And more to be announced…
Check out the Shaky Knees Festival poster here:
Where Is The Shaky Knees Festival Taking Place?
The Shaky Knees Festival will take place at Piedmont Park in Midtown Atlanta at Atlanta, GA 30309 NE. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Final Word
Atlanta has just about everything you need for a fun time in a big-city. If you love to laugh, you should check out the best comedy clubs in Atlanta.
For those who feel like dancing or vibing to some music, Atlanta’s got some of the best clubs in the South.
Want to get out of the house during the day? Why not get some shopping in the city by patronizing local vendors with handmade goods, arts, crafts, candles, soaps, vintage and more.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
-
As the crisp autumn air begins to settle over metro Atlanta, families are gearing up for one of the region’s most beloved traditions: the North Georgia State Fair.
Running from September 18 to 28, 2025, at the Cobb County International Firefighters Association Fairgrounds in Marietta, this 93-year-old event promises a whirlwind of excitement, drawing over 300,000 visitors annually from across north Georgia and neighboring states.
Georgia State Fair: What To Know Before You Go
Billed as the largest fair in the metro Atlanta area, it’s the perfect spot for thrill-seekers, foodies, and animal lovers to celebrate the fall season.
With its roots tracing back to the early 20th century, the North Georgia State Fair has evolved into a cornerstone of community life in Cobb County.
Originally established to showcase agricultural achievements and local craftsmanship, the fair has grown into a massive celebration of Georgia’s heritage while incorporating modern entertainment.
“This fair isn’t just an event; it’s a family reunion for the entire region,” said fair organizer Sarah Jenkins in a recent statement. “We’ve been making memories here for generations, and 2025 is shaping up to be our biggest year yet.”
A Lineup of Unmatched Attractions
Attendees can expect a jam-packed schedule of free and ticketed activities designed to appeal to every age group. The fair’s centerpiece is the Great James H. Drew Exposition Midway, one of the largest carnival setups in the United States, featuring heart-pounding rides like the Wildcat Rollercoaster, the towering Georgia Mountain Lift, and the Mega Slide.
For younger visitors, kiddie rides and gentle carousels provide safe, whimsical fun. A pay-one-price ride special will be available every day, making it easier for families to enjoy unlimited thrills without breaking the bank.Live entertainment takes center stage with a series of world-class performances. New for 2025, the Zerbini Family Circus will pitch its 1,200-seat Big Top for acrobatic feats, aerialists, clowns, and jugglers in a family-run spectacle that’s sure to dazzle.
Magic enthusiasts won’t want to miss Lady Houdini (aka Kristen Johnson), the trailblazing illusionist making her debut with death-defying escapes and mind-bending tricks.
“Lady Houdini brings a fresh, empowering twist to classic magic,” noted fair promotions director Mike Rivera.
Other highlights include the Rhinestone Roper’s lasso artistry, Circus Hollywood’s high-wire acts, and Puppy Pals’ adorable canine comedy show.Animal lovers will flock to the two petting barns: the North Georgia Animals Petting Barn, where visitors can interact with horses, goats, cows, rabbits, llamas, and ponies; and the Eudora Farms Petting Zoo, featuring exotic creatures like zebras, lemurs, wallabies, and even camel rides.
Pig races and a live wolf show add to the menagerie, offering educational insights into Georgia’s agricultural roots.
Competitive spirits can enter blue-ribbon contests for handmade goods, fruits, vegetables, artwork, and flower shows, celebrating local talent and produce.
Live music stages will host a rotating lineup of local bands and performers, with free concerts throughout the day. And for those seeking a bit of whimsy, Atlanta puppeteer Peter Hart will deliver award-winning shows in the Georgia Grown Exhibit Hall.Indulge in Fair Food Favorites and New TwistsNo fair visit is complete without sampling the savory and sweet staples.
Expect classic treats like funnel cakes dusted with powdered sugar, corn dogs on a stick, cotton candy clouds, and deep-fried everything—from Oreos to Twinkies. This year, organizers are introducing unexpected culinary delights, including gourmet fair fusions like loaded tater tot nachos and vegan-friendly options to cater to diverse palates.
“We’re blending tradition with innovation to keep the fair food scene as exciting as the rides,” Jenkins added.The fair’s emphasis on Georgia-grown products shines through in exhibits highlighting local farmers and artisans, reinforcing its significance as a showcase for the state’s agricultural economy.
Practical Info for Your Visit
The fairgrounds at 2375 Cobb Parkway N., Marietta, open daily from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. on weekends, with gates closing earlier on the final day. Admission is $15 for adults, $5 for children ages 5-12, and free for kids 4 and under; parking costs $10 per vehicle.
Clear bags and security-checked diaper bags are permitted, ensuring a safe environment for all.
For those planning a trip from downtown Atlanta, the fair is just a 30-minute drive north via I-75.
Ride-sharing services and shuttles from nearby MARTA stations will be available to ease traffic congestion. Groups, military personnel, and seniors can take advantage of discounted rates—check the official website for details.
Final Word
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime fan, the North Georgia State Fair offers an unbeatable mix of nostalgia, novelty, and non-stop fun. Mark your calendars for September 18-28 and get ready to make some unforgettable memories under the fall stars. For tickets and the full schedule, visit northgeorgiastatefair.com.
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
-
Art enthusiasts, families, and community members are gearing up for a vibrant weekend of creativity and culture as the Sandy Springs Fall Arts and Craft Festival returns to the tree-lined streets of Sandy Springs on September 13 and 14.
This beloved two-day event, now in its fifth year, is one of the top festivals around Atlanta and promises to transform the area into an expansive outdoor art gallery, showcasing the talents of local and regional artists from across the United States.
Sandy Springs Fall Arts and Craft Festival: What To Know
Organized by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces (AFFPS), the festival will take place at 6100 Lake Forrest Drive NE, near the Sandy Springs Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, PC.
It’s a dog-friendly affair, making it perfect for pet owners looking to enjoy the festivities al fresco. Gates open at 10 a.m. on Saturday and run until 5 p.m., with Sunday hours from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., giving attendees plenty of time to browse, shop, and soak in the atmosphere.
At the heart of the festival are over 125 artist booths featuring a diverse array of handmade works. Visitors can expect to see everything from paintings and photography to sculptures, jewelry, leather and metal crafts, and even glassblowing demonstrations.
The event emphasizes original, jury-approved pieces, ensuring a high-quality showcase of creativity.
“This festival is all about highlighting the incredible talent right here in our community and beyond,” said festival director Jennifer Humphrey. “It’s a chance for artists to connect with buyers and for families to discover unique, one-of-a-kind items.”
Beyond the art, the festival offers a full lineup of family-friendly activities. Live music will fill the air throughout the weekend, courtesy of local musicians performing on stages scattered across the venue.
Gourmet food trucks will be on hand, serving up a variety of culinary delights to keep hunger at bay while exploring. For the little ones, a dedicated children’s play area provides interactive fun, including hands-on art stations where kids can get creative themselves.
Art demonstrations will also be a highlight, allowing attendees to watch skilled artisans at work and perhaps pick up some inspiration.
Admission to the festival is free, making it an accessible outing for all.
Organizers encourage attendees to arrive early for the best parking spots, with designated areas available nearby. In keeping with its community focus, the event supports local artists through scholarships and partnerships, fostering a sense of connection in the Sandy Springs neighborhood.
Don’t miss this opportunity to support local makers and enjoy a picturesque fall day in metro Atlanta. For more details, including artist maps and updates, visit the official website at sandyspringsartsapalooza.com
Final Word
Whether you’re hunting for that perfect holiday gift or simply looking to celebrate the arts, the Sandy Springs Fall Arts and Craft Festival is set to be a highlight of the September calendar. See you there!
Check Out Our Atlanta Travel Guide
