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Now in its 10th annual campaign in Atlanta, Black Restaurant Week returns for two weeks of celebrating and supporting African American-owned restaurants, food trucks, sweets vendors, and culinary businesses. It’s a prime opportunity to discover and enjoy the vibrant flavors of African American, African, and Caribbean cuisine across metro Atlanta.
Black Restaurant Week is dedicated to supporting and promoting Atlanta’s African-American owned restaurants, food businesses and farms.
Black Restaurant Week Atlanta 2026: Everything You Need To Know
Black Restaurant Week in Atlanta, running from August 3 to August 17, 2025, is the 9th annual campaign celebrating African American, African, and Caribbean cuisine. The 2025 event introduces a Bites and Birdies Golf Invitational at Canongate 1 Golf Club and features specials like free appetizers with entrees at some locations.
When Is Black Restaurant Week In Atlanta?
This year in Atlanta, Black Restaurant Week runs from Sunday, August 3 through Sunday, August 17, 2025.
Here are some events you won’t want to miss:
Black Restaurant Week 2026: Kickoff and Key Events
- Throughout August 2–16, 2026: Dining Specials: Various participating restaurants, food trucks, and vendors across metro Atlanta will offer curated specials, promotions (such as discounted items, free add-ons with entrees, or featured dishes). Over the years, participation has grown to dozens of businesses — check the official site for the full, updated list.
- Kickoff and Preview Events: Expect a “First Taste” style launch (historically at spots like The Corner Grille) to preview offerings. Details for 2026 will be posted on the official website closer to the date.
- Bites and Birdies Golf Invitational: The popular golf event, which debuted in 2025 at Canongate 1 Golf Club in Sharpsburg, combines culinary tastings with golf to support Black-owned businesses and the Feed the Soul Foundation. Watch for 2026 confirmation and registration details.
- Curated Dinners, Happy Hours, and Themed Nights: Partnerships (e.g., with brands like Stella Artois in past years) often bring special dinners, happy hours, and unique experiences like Dinner and Skate Night at locations such as Marquis Restaurant & Lounge. Exact 2026 dates and venues will be announced on the official calendar.
The focus remains on dining and direct support rather than panels or workshops — eat at participating spots and spread the word.
Black Restaurant Week takes its goal of creating experiences that will cater to a diverse culture of tastemakers, professionals and area foodies seriously. Gone this year are the panels and food workshops, it’s all about support. That’s why the goal is just to eat at participating restaurants and spread the word.
What began in Houston seven years ago has expanded in major U.S. markets like Atlanta, New York, Washington D.C. and Chicago.
“We’re in the trenches with the owners and operators, which is why we created our Feed the Soul Foundation Restaurant Business Development Fund,” states Falayn Ferrell, Black Restaurant Week, LLC’s Operations Managing Partner. “We understand they need ‘more than just a week’ of support to thrive in such a competitive industry. Through the support of our corporate partners, the foundation is able to provide funding and business development to create sustainability for minority-owned culinary businesses.”
Photographer: Oliver Sjöström, https://ollivves.com Black Restaurant Week: Participating Atlanta Restaurants
The official list is updated annually and features a wide range of spots. Recent and returning participants often include:
- Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen and Bar (West Midtown, Conyers) — Gullah-Geechee and Lowcountry favorites.
- Black Coffee Company — Creative sandwiches, beverages, and event enhancements.
- Marquis Restaurant & Lounge (Cascade Skating Rink) — Caribbean and dining + skating experiences.
- Busy Bee Cafe (Vine City) — Classic soul food.
- Ray’s Southern Foods, Southern National, Apt 4B, Auburn Angel, and many more.
- Additional 2026 spots (from early listings): Oreatha’s At The Point, The Breakfast Boys, Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles, Omni Coffee & Eggs, Whisk Breakfast & Brunch, and others offering soul food, barbecue, Caribbean, Creole, and fusion cuisine.
For the complete, current list of participants, specials, and locations, visit the official Black Restaurant Week site: blackrestaurantweeks.com/atlanta-black-restaurant-week.
Final Word
Black-owned restaurants contribute significantly to Atlanta’s economy, particularly in neighborhoods like Vine City, Summerhill, and Cascade.
Events like Black Restaurant Week boost revenue for these businesses, which often face challenges like rising food and labor costs or limited access to capital. By drawing diners, these restaurants create jobs and stimulate local economies, supporting Black entrepreneurs and their communities.
Atlanta has a rich African American heritage, often described as a hub for Black culture in the U.S.
Black restaurants preserve and showcase culinary traditions from African American, African, and Caribbean communities, offering dishes like soul food, Gullah-Geechee cuisine, continental food and Caribbean-inspired fare. Establishments like Busy Bee Cafe and Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen and Bar serve as cultural anchors, passing down recipes and traditions that reflect resilience, creativity, and history.
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Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Looking for a fun, low-key way to spend Friday evening? Head to Mimms Museum for Night Mode on Friday, July 10, when the museum will remain open until 9 p.m.
Night Mode at Mimms Museum: What To Expect
This special evening extension transforms the museum into a perfect destination for a casual night out. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a date night, or a relaxed get-together with friends, Night Mode offers a more laid-back atmosphere than the usual daytime visit. Stroll through the exhibits at your own pace under softer evening lighting while enjoying the company of those you love.
Event Details:
- Date: Friday, July 10
- Time: 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
- Location: Mimms Museum
Visitors can purchase soft drinks, beer, and wine on-site, making it easy to grab a beverage and unwind. The event is ideal before or after dinner, giving you the flexibility to build a full evening around your museum visit.
Regular admission rates apply—no special tickets or reservations are required. Just show up, explore the collections in a new light, and make the most of the extended hours.
Night Mode is the perfect opportunity to experience everything Mimms Museum has to offer without the daytime crowds. Bring the kids, your partner, or a group of friends for an enjoyable, memorable evening filled with culture and conversation.
Mark your calendar and plan to stop by Mimms Museum this Friday for a refreshing twist on a classic museum visit!
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Trilith is gearing up for another unforgettable evening as the popular Taste of Trilith event makes its triumphant return on Friday, August 15, 2026. This beloved community celebration promises an ideal summer night filled with delicious food, refreshing drinks, live entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks display once the sun goes down.
Taste of Trilith: What To Know
Set in the vibrant heart of Trilith, the event offers attendees the perfect opportunity to unwind, socialize, and savor the best that the area has to offer. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the region, Taste of Trilith delivers a festive atmosphere where great company meets exceptional experiences.
Expect a wide array of culinary delights from participating vendors, craft beverages, and live performances that will keep the energy high throughout the evening. As darkness falls, the sky will light up with a dazzling fireworks show, capping off the night in memorable fashion.
“Taste of Trilith is back and better than ever,” event organizers shared. “It’s the perfect way to enjoy a warm summer evening with friends and family in the heart of our community.”
This all-ages event is designed for everyone to enjoy — bring your people, grab a spot on the lawn, and make lasting memories under the stars. Early ticket purchase is strongly encouraged as these popular gatherings tend to sell out.
Event Details:
- Date: Friday, August 15, 2026
- Time: Evening (exact hours available on the event page)
- Location: Trilith (heart of the community)
- Highlights: Gourmet food vendors, drinks, live entertainment, and fireworks
Tickets are now on sale. Secure yours today here.
Don’t miss this highlight of the summer season in Trilith. Gather your friends and family for an evening of flavor, fun, and fireworks that you won’t soon forget!
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Metro Atlanta — Mimms Museum of Technology and Art (Mimms Museum), a nonprofit home to one of the world’s largest collections of digital-era artifacts and technology-inspired artwork, is kicking off its summer season with a vibrant lineup of events.
This is one of the best things to do with kids in Atlanta. The programming blends returning favorites with fresh interactive experiences, all included with general admission or membership unless otherwise noted.
Mimms Museum Summer Events in Atlanta: What to Know
“Following the opening of ‘iNSPIRE: 50 Years of Innovation from Apple,’ we’ve seen tremendous excitement from visitors who are eager to explore the museum in new ways,” said Elaine Pelaia, director of museum operations. “This summer’s event calendar combines many of the experiences our members and guests look forward to each year with some really fun, timely opportunities to explore innovation and engage with technology.”
Typewriter Tom Returns for National Typewriter Day Celebration
Visitors can step back in time on Saturday, June 20, and Sunday, June 21, as the popular Typewriter Tom makes his annual return. From noon to 5 p.m. both days, guests of all ages will have the chance to try out historic typewriters and experience “The Machines That Wrote America” firsthand.
The weekend serves as the perfect warm-up for National Typewriter Day on June 23, offering hands-on fun and insight into how these iconic machines helped shape modern communication.
RoboSoccer Takes Center Field Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026
On Saturday, June 27, from noon to 5 p.m., the museum will celebrate Atlanta’s role as a host city for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ with a lively family-friendly event called RoboSoccer. Attendees can grab remote-controlled vehicles and miniature soccer balls to compete in fast-paced, action-packed matches on a custom mini-field.
The event promises high-energy fun suitable for all ages while highlighting the intersection of technology, robotics, and sports.Additional summer programming details will be announced soon. For more information on hours, tickets, membership, and the full event calendar, visit the Mimms Museum website.
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On Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., Atlanta’s Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark area (830 Willoughby Way NE, Atlanta, GA 30312) transforms into a bustling hub of culture, commerce, and connection for Shop Black Fest Atlanta.
Shop Black Fest Atlanta Returns: A Vibrant Celebration of Black-Owned Businesses and Community
This free, family-friendly vendor market spotlights Black-owned businesses and creators, offering attendees a chance to shop intentionally while enjoying live music, food, giveaways, and community vibes.
What to Expect at Shop Black Fest
Organized as part of Shop Black Fest’s 2026 multi-city tour, the Atlanta stop features more than 120 Black-owned vendors selling everything from fashion, beauty, and art to home goods, wellness products, jewelry, books, gourmet foods, and more. It’s not just a market—it’s a full-day experience designed to highlight Black entrepreneurship and foster real connections.
Highlights include:
- Diverse Marketplace: Discover unique, high-quality products from local and regional Black creators.
- Food Trucks & Refreshments: Enjoy a variety of eats, from soul food and Caribbean flavors to vegan options and more.
- Live Music & Entertainment: DJ sets, performances, and a lively atmosphere.
- Family Activities & Giveaways: Kid-friendly fun, community building, and sponsored prizes.
- VIP Experience: For $50, VIP ticket holders gain front-row main stage access and a “Shop Black Box” filled with gifts from Black-owned businesses.
Admission is free (with optional RSVP via Eventbrite or social channels), and free parking is available. The event is all-ages and outdoors at the skatepark field, making it an ideal way to spend a Saturday in the heart of Atlanta.
The Mission Behind Shop Black Fest
Shop Black Fest is more than a one-day pop-up. The organization supports Black-owned businesses and creative entrepreneurs by helping them get discovered, connect with customers, and build sustainable growth. Through vendor readiness programs and tools, participants move beyond single-event sales into long-term success.
Across its tours, Shop Black Fest has:
- Served 4,000+ Black-owned businesses.
- Activated 13+ cities.
- Circulated over $3 million in local economies.36
The Atlanta edition marks a strong return stop on the 2026 tour, following Memphis and preceding Chicago, Nashville, and more. Organizers emphasize community: “Bring your friends. Bring your family. Bring your shopping bags.”
Why Attend?
In a world of online shopping, events like Shop Black Fest create intentional, in-person spaces to support Black excellence in business and culture. Attendees often leave with new favorites, fresh connections, and a sense of belonging. Past participants describe it as fun, welcoming, and inspiring—full of diverse vendors, ages, and experiences.
Whether you’re hunting for unique gifts, supporting local entrepreneurs, enjoying good food and music, or simply soaking up positive community energy, Shop Black Fest Atlanta delivers.
Event Details:
- Date & Time: Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Location: Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark Field, 830 Willoughby Way Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30312
- Admission: Free (VIP upgrade available)
- More Info & Tickets: Check Eventbrite or follow @shopblackfest on Instagram/Facebook.0
Mark your calendar, grab your reusable bags, and head to the Fourth Ward for a day that celebrates Black businesses, creativity, and Atlanta’s vibrant spirit. See you there!
For vendor opportunities or future events, visit shopblackfest.com.
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ATLANTA — Lenox Square is launching a community donation drive for new soccer balls to support young athletes with the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, timed to coincide with major international soccer events coming to the city this summer.
The drive runs through Friday, July 31. Shoppers can drop off new soccer balls of any size in designated bins located throughout the Mall Level at Lenox Square or at the Mall Management Office on the Market Level near the Dining Pavilion restrooms.
Lenox Square Soccer Ball Donation Drive to Equip YMCA Youth Athletes
“Our city is stepping onto the global soccer stage, and we want Atlanta’s youth to be part of the moment,” said Sean Carroll, general manager at Lenox Square. “That is why supporting the YMCA of Metro Atlanta to put soccer balls in young hands is a goal worth scoring. With the tournament and the Peachtree Road Race drawing thousands of visitors to our center, we invite everyone to give back to the organization that has shaped Atlanta soccer for decades.”
The YMCA of Metro Atlanta, the city’s oldest nonprofit dedicated to community service, has deep roots in local youth soccer. The organization began offering programs in the 1960s in Decatur and has grown into the region’s leading provider of youth soccer, with locations across Metro Atlanta. It continues to focus on making the sport accessible at every stage of youth development.
“As the birthplace of youth soccer in the U.S., we’re proud to continue making the game affordable, inclusive and accessible,” said Lauren Koontz, president and CEO of YMCA of Metro Atlanta. “The generous support of Lenox Square and our community is integral in helping kids to get involved in soccer, learn and grow as part of a team and build fundamental skills that set them up for success.”
As Atlanta prepares to host high-profile soccer matches this summer, the partnership aims to ensure local children are not left on the sidelines, equipping more young players with the basic gear needed to participate in the sport.
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Do you love daring tricks and awesome acrobatics under a big top? If so, you’ll definitely want to check out the UniverSoul Circus, better known as “the coolest show on Earth.”
For over three decades, UniverSoul Circus has brought high-energy performances, global talent, and soulful vibes to audiences across the United States—and it all started in Atlanta. Founded in 1994 by Cedric Walker, this single-ring circus stands out for its emphasis on performers of color, blending traditional circus arts with theater, music, dance, and cultural flair. Often called “Cirque du Soul” by early reviewers, it continues to deliver fresh, funky, and family-friendly entertainment under its iconic purple-and-yellow big top.
The Universoul Circus is performing in downtown Atlanta with new tricks up its sleeve.
For How Long Is The UniverSoul Circus Coming in Atlanta?
As of early June 2026, UniverSoul Circus is now playing at Old Turner Field – Grey Lot (150 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd, Atlanta, GA 30312). Shows run through mid-June, with multiple performances daily (matinees and evenings). It then heads to Gwinnett Place Mall starting June 18.
The show typically lasts about 2.5 hours and is a lot of fun.
“Atlantic Station serves as a bustling cultural epicenter for numerous residents of Atlanta, and we are thrilled to bring the unique experience of UniverSoul to all its visitors,” said Cedric Walker, UniverSoul Circus Founder & CEO.
Presented in a brand-new custom purple Big Top imported from Italy, UniverSoul’s Big Top is 157 feet wide and 330 feet long, the size of a football field. It is enhanced with advanced state-of-the-art lighting and a sound system that moves and grooves as if it were the show itself. Atlantans will be able to see the tent being raised this week from the connector!How Much Are Tickets To UniverSoul Circus?
You can purchase tickets here for the Atlanta dates here.
You can find UniverSoul Circus tickets for as low as $27.50, with an average price of $60.
Tickets are available via Ticketmaster or the official site, with options for groups (20+), special offers, and no-service-fee days. Parking is available in nearby private lots (starting around $20 for cars). Box office hours vary by day.
Universoul Circus History
Universoul Circus has been drawing crowds since 1994, when entrepreneur Cedric Walker got the idea to create an entertaining show comprised of some of the most talented people of color around.
Diligently looking for people with incredible gifts, Walker’s search took him around the globe. Today, the Universoul Circus has entertained over 25 million people and performed more than 14,000 shows. The party has been going on for 25 years and there ain’t no stopping them now.
What to Expect Under the Big Top
UniverSoul Circus is highly interactive, combining breathtaking acrobatics, thrilling stunts, and high-energy music. Performances typically run about two hours and feature a mix of acts that celebrate diversity and culture. Standout elements include:
- Soul Skaters and high-flying aerialists
- Hoop Divers, extreme motorcycle riders, and power tumblers
- Caribbean Carnival vibes and global dance performances
- Acts like Vertigo, Double Vision, Power of Love, and more
The show is bold, colorful, and designed to engage the whole family—think edge-of-your-seat excitement paired with feel-good moments, sing-alongs, and audience participation.
In 2026, the circus is celebrating more than 30 years (often marketed as its 31st or 32nd season of fun) with updated productions full of nonstop energy.
Where is UniverSoul Circus Performing in Midtown Atlanta?
UniverSoul Circus is at 150 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd, Atlanta, GA 30312 . Here’s a map to help you find it.
Final Word
The circus always promises a wild time. While we can’t promise lions, tigers and bears, we can get out outdoors for a good time.
Interested in dining outside? Here are the best Atlanta restaurants for outdoor eating and here are those with great patios.
If you want to take your dog to the park, here are the best Atlanta parks for Fido.
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There’s only one food holiday that we crave year in and year out — National Donut Day — which is here again. On this beautiful Friday June 5, 2026, we’ve listed the donut deals that you can munch on.
The holiday traces its origins to wartime America. It was in 1938 when the Chicago Salvation Army sought to honor the women who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I. The war ended, but the tradition got sweeter and sweeter. Now, Americans annually give the donut its just desserts one day a year.
National Donut Day 2026: Where To Get Free Donut In Atlanta
Ready to find out where the donut deals are around metro Atlanta?
Krispy Kreme
Photo credit: Krispy Kreme Krispy Kreme: Free donut of your choice (no purchase necessary). Also, buy any dozen donuts and get a dozen Original Glazed for just $2. Available in-shop and drive-thru.
Dunkin’ Donuts
At Dunkin’ get a free classic donut (e.g., Boston Kreme, Glazed, etc.) with any beverage purchase.
Five Daughters Bakery
If you’re in the mood for something bougie, Ponce City Market’s Five Daughters Bakery is slashing 15% off their famous 100-layer donut-croissant hybrids today. The Strawberry Lemon Shortcake is a fall must-try, with its flaky layers and tart-sweet filling. At 675 Ponce de Leon Ave NE, Suite N143, Atlanta, GA 30308, this Nashville transplant has fully embraced ATL with its walk-up window. Grab a few for the office (or your WFH desk) and watch them disappear faster than rush-hour traffic on I-75.
Revolution Doughnuts & Coffee
Tucked in the heart of East Atlanta Village at 745 Edgewood Ave. NE, Revolution Doughnuts is all about handmade, small-batch magic. They’re running a National Donut Day special: Buy a half-dozen assorted donuts and get a free small coffee (hot or iced). Flavors rotate daily, but expect crowd-pleasers like the Maple Bacon Long John or the vegan-friendly Blueberry Cake. This family-owned gem emphasizes sustainable sourcing and has become a neighborhood staple—perfect for supporting local while treating yourself.
Sublime Doughnuts
For those craving something a tad more artisanal, Inman Park’s Sublime Doughnuts is Atlanta’s go-to for elevated treats that blend Southern flair with global inspiration. Today, they’re offering 20% off any purchase of six or more donuts—think their signature Voodoo (chocolate-glazed with sea salt) or the seasonal Pumpkin Spice Cake. This spot’s cozy vibe makes it ideal for a mid-morning treat or post-brunch stop.
Shipley Do-Nuts
In honor of National Doughnut Day, Shipley Do-Nuts is giving customers a complimentary doughnut with any purchase from 5 a.m. until noon, at all locations while supplies last.
- Dough in the Box: Free glazed donut (no purchase necessary).
- The Salty Donut: 50% off any coffee with donut purchase (opening to noon, in-shop or via app).
- Randy’s Donuts (Lenox Mall): One free classic donut per person (no purchase necessary), 6 a.m. to noon.
- Paris Baguette (Rewards members): Free sugar mochi or small twist donut with purchase; new sign-ups may get a free donut/pastry. Locations in Doraville, Perimeter, Duluth
Final Word
Do you want a free doughnut? If so, there’s a sweet deal for you this week. Metro Atlanta doughnut makers will be in a giving mood to celebrate National Doughnut Day.
National Doughnut Day is the sweetest holiday of the year, but it’s not the only way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Read up on where to get the best lattes in Atlanta.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
But Atlanta also has trendy restaurants, pop-ups and time-tested landmarks that continue to draw big crowds.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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Where them fans at? Southern soul fans in the Atlanta area are gearing up for a high-energy celebration of rhythm, blues, and feel-good grooves. The ATL Southern Soul Music Fest is scheduled for Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the scenic Wolf Creek Amphitheater in South Fulton, Georgia (just outside Atlanta).
ATL Southern Soul Music Fest: Event Details and Lineup
The event promises a full afternoon and evening of live performances from some of the biggest names in contemporary Southern soul and blues. Headliners and featured artists include:
- King George — The rising star known for smooth, nostalgic vocals and hits like “Keep On Rollin’,” “Too Long,” and “Girl You Got It.” His party-centric R&B tracks with old-school flair have made him a fan favorite.
- Sir Charles Jones
- 803 Fresh
- Tonio Armani
- Nephew Jones
- Money Train
Additional performers include Mike Clark Jr., Uncle Daddy, Charmeka Joquelle, and more.
Gates open at 3:00 PM, with the show starting at 5:00 PM and running until approximately 8:00 PM. It’s a BYOB event with free parking, making it easy and affordable for attendees to settle in for the day.
The Venue: Wolf Creek Amphitheater
Wolf Creek Amphitheater is a premier outdoor venue located on a picturesque 435-acre wooded site in South Fulton at 3025 Merk Road, Atlanta, GA 30349 (often listed in College Park or South Fulton areas).
It features reserved seating, table seating, and spacious lawn areas, with a capacity of approximately 5,420 guests. Its convenient location near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Camp Creek Marketplace makes it accessible for locals and out-of-town visitors alike.
The amphitheater has become a hub for diverse live music, festivals, and community events since its reopening, offering a relaxed, open-air atmosphere perfect for soul music under the Georgia sky.
Tickets and How to Attend
Tickets are on sale now through VarietyEnt.net and platforms like Etix, with options ranging from General Admission to reserved seating, table seats, Platinum VIP, and Skybox VIP suites. Prices start around $45 (plus fees) for pre-sale GA, though they may increase closer to the event.
For the latest updates, full lineup announcements, or ticket purchases, visit the official Wolf Creek Amphitheater site or Variety Entertainment’s page.
Why You Should Go
Southern soul music continues to thrive with its blend of blues, R&B, gospel influences, and relatable storytelling. This festival delivers a perfect mix of established legends and rising talents for an unforgettable day of live music, good vibes, and community. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or new to its infectious grooves, the ATL Southern Soul Music Fest is shaping up to be one of the must-attend events of the summer in Atlanta.
Don’t miss your chance to experience Southern soul at its finest—grab your tickets, bring your cooler, and get ready for a soul-stirring Saturday night!
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The Atlanta Fringe Festival is a vibrant, artist-driven multidisciplinary event that brings together theatre, dance, comedy, storytelling, puppetry, burlesque, magic, and more for two wild weeks each year in Atlanta, Georgia.
Now in its 14th edition (2026), it has grown into one of the city’s most exciting cultural happenings, emphasizing accessibility for creators and audiences alike. The Fringe Festival is one of Atlanta’s best festivals.
Origins and InspirationThe festival draws direct inspiration from the legendary Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which began in 1947 as an unjuried alternative to the official arts program. Like its Scottish counterpart, Atlanta Fringe prioritizes bold, original, and uncensored work from artists of all backgrounds and experience levels.
Atlanta Fringe Festival: Dates, Times, Info
A small group of Atlanta theatre lovers conceived the idea in 2010. The first festival debuted in 2012 with a handful of performances. Since then, it has expanded significantly while staying true to its grassroots roots. Produced by Twinhead Theatre, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the event operates with a dedicated volunteer committee and focuses on an artist-first model. en.wikipedia.org +1How Atlanta Fringe WorksUnlike juried festivals, Atlanta Fringe uses a lottery-based selection process. Artists submit during an open period (typically December–January), and selected participants pay low fees. In return, they receive:
- Guaranteed four performances plus one technical rehearsal in fully equipped venues.
- 100% of box office revenue (minus minimal fees).
- Professional photos of their shows.
- Opportunities for audience-voted awards, Critic’s Choice, and Producer’s Choice prizes. atlantafringe.org
This open-access approach lowers barriers, especially for emerging and underrepresented voices, fostering a diverse lineup of local, national, and occasional international talent.The 2026 Festival: May 27 – June 7The 14th annual edition runs for a full two weeks, featuring 51 artist groups across roughly 8 venues in vibrant East Atlanta neighborhoods like Little Five Points (L5P), East Atlanta Village, and nearby areas. Expect over 245 live acts and hundreds of individual performances.
Highlights include:
- Mainstage Shows — A mix of 27 Atlanta-based productions and 18+ touring acts from across the U.S. and one from Scotland. Genres span everything from intimate dramas to high-energy dance and improv. encoremagazine.com
- Free Preview Party (May 27 at 7 Stages) — Every artist gets two minutes to tease their show, plus special guests. Free but RSVP recommended.
- Five/5ths of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (June 1) — Five different groups each tackle a segment of the classic film in their own wild style.
- Atlanta Street Fringe — Free outdoor busking, music, dance, and comedy throughout L5P and East Atlanta Village.
- Kids Fringe — Family-friendly activities and performances on select weekends.
- Fringe Audio — A free podcasting component featuring original audio dramas and stories.
- Closing Party & Awards (June 7) — Celebration, cash prizes, and wrap-up festivities.
Venues include 7 Stages, Metropolitan Studios, The Supermarket, Dynamic El Dorado, and others—all within a compact, walkable/drivable cluster packed with food, drinks, and shopping options.
Atlanta Fringe Festival: Why It Matters
Atlanta Fringe creates space for experimental, boundary-pushing work that might not find a home in more traditional venues. It builds community by connecting artists with enthusiastic audiences in an atmosphere of joy and collaboration. Past participants often return, and the festival has paid out significant sums to artists, technicians, and staff over the years while drawing thousands of attendees.
Executive Director and co-founder Diana Brown, along with the core team (including Production Director Nadia Morgan and others), keeps the event running with passion and practicality—from securing venues to handling everything in between.Plan Your VisitTickets are available via the official site (atlantafringe.org), with options for single shows or multi-show passes. Pro tips from the organizers:
- Arrive early—shows start on time.
- Expect Atlanta heat and traffic; dress comfortably and budget extra travel time.
- Take advantage of nearby eats and festival badges for discounts. atlantafringe.org
Whether you’re a longtime theatre fan, curious newcomer, or visiting from out of town, the Atlanta Fringe Festival delivers an unforgettable dose of creativity and fun. It’s proof that independent arts thrive when given room to be weird, wonderful, and wildly entertaining.For the full schedule, artist lineup, and tickets, visit atlantafringe.org. See you in the audience!
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