-
The Big Shanty Festival is once again coming your way in one of Cobb County’s most dynamic cities.
In downtown Kennesaw, this free festival features over 250 arts and crafts vendors, food stalls, live music, a parade, and children’s activities. Aside from being one of the best Atlanta-area festivals, the Big Shanty Festival is a classic community event with broad appeal.
The Big Shanty Festival: What To Know
The Big Shanty Festival, officially known as the Superior Plumbing Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival, is an annual event held in downtown Kennesaw, Georgia, that’s been running for nearly five decades.
The vibe’s a mix of small-town heritage and modern fun—Kennesaw’s old nickname “Big Shanty” ties it to its Civil War-era roots, but today it’s about community and commerce. It draws over 60,000 people, boosting local businesses and tourism.
Here’s what you should know if you’re planning to check it out or just want the rundown:
What is The Big Shanty Festival?
It’s happening on April 18-19, 2026, for its 50th year. The festival kicks off Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., after a parade that’s been canceled this year due to low participation—usually it’d start at 9:30 a.m. with kids, sports teams, and marching bands.
Sunday runs from noon to 5 p.m. Admission is free, so you won’t need to shell out just to walk in.
Big Shanty Festival: What To Expect
Expect a big setup: over 250 arts and crafts booths, 25 food vendors slinging fair classics like turkey legs and funnel cakes, and a beer garden for those looking to sip something cold.
It’s family-friendly with a kid’s zone featuring activities, plus live entertainment all weekend—think acoustic sets at the food court, puppet shows by Peter Hart of Atlanta Puppetry, and a new Ready Go Dog Show with frisbee-catching dogs at the United Bankshares Amphitheater.
The Georgia Grown Member Village is back too, spotlighting local Georgia-made goods.
Where Is the Big Shanty Festival Happening?
Location-wise, it’s smack in downtown Kennesaw near the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. If you’re driving up I-75 north, take Exit 273 (Wade Green Road), head west for about two miles, and you’ll hit it.
Parking’s available at Adams Park, Kennesaw First Baptist Church, and Swift-Cantrell Park, with free shuttles running from Swift-Cantrell to the festival both days. Main Street gets closed off, making it safer to roam between spots like City Hall and the museum area.
Final Word
Heads-up: it’s pet-friendly—lots of folks bring dogs—but the crowds and hot pavement can be rough on pups, so plan accordingly. Weather’s not a dealbreaker; it’s rain or shine. For more details, you can call JRM Management at (770) 423-1330. That’s the gist—big, busy, and a slice of North Georgia life.
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:
-
The Spring Wine Festival is quickly approaching at historic Fourth Ward Park this weekend with wine, beer, music and more.
The event is one of Atlanta’s best festivals. this year, so you don’t want to miss it. If you’re planning on going, you’ll no doubt enjoy the selection of 50+ wines, beer and mimosas as well as live music from Davis and the Love, DJ QTip and more.
Atlanta Spring Wine Festival: What To Know
The Atlanta Spring Wine Festival takes place on Saturday, April 11, 2026. There will be two sessions:
- Session 1: from 12 to 4 p.m.
- Session 2: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The Atlanta Spring Wine Festival is a 21 and up event and there will be no kids, no babies, no pets. Chairs, blankets, and small bags are okay. No outside food or beverage. Rain or shine event, no refunds. We will not have Designated Driver Tickets. Free bottled water available.
The Spring Wine Festival won’t have Designated Driver Tickets. Free bottled water available. Beer and Wine will be cut off at 4:45pm. Do Not Drink and Drive.
They reserve the right to cut off anyone who has had enough alcohol.
BUY TICKETS HERE
The address of Old Fourth Ward Park is Historic 4th Ward Park 665 North Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30308.
$45 advance, $50 after April 6, $60 day of event
Final Word
The Atlanta Spring Wine Festival is one of the city’s best free outdoors events, but there are some associated ticketed events
You can expect beautiful weather, great food and live music just like it’s been in years past. The Dogwood Festival will have a VIP Experience includes Food and Beer Tasting, Access to VIP tent, Private Restroom Trailers and Seating.
Explore Atlanta At Your Own Pace
There are so many fun things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. Downtown Atlanta or Midtown often has something cool going on!
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
-
If you want that familiar feel of the neighborhood festival, you need to head to North Fulton County. The Taste of Alpharetta is happening the second weeked in May and it promises to be a feast for the senses.
Taste of Alpharetta is coming back around and this time it’s full of more great food from area chefs and restaurants. Rain or shine, this event is going to be one of those must-attend festivals in Atlanta.
The event will have live music performances by Adam Patterson, DejaBlue Grass, The Platonics, Sami Michelson and more.
When Is The Taste Of Alpharetta?
The 31st annual Taste of Alpharetta festival – May 14, 2026 in downtown Alpharetta.
Where Will The Taste of Alpharetta Be Located?
The Taste of Alpharetta is located at 50 Canton St, Alpharetta, GA 30009. Here is a map to help you find it.
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.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
-
The Atlanta Science Festival 2026 is underway, bringing a vibrant, citywide celebration of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) to metro Atlanta.
Now in its 13th year, this annual event—engineered by the nonprofit Science ATL—continues to inspire curiosity and showcase the region’s world-class STEM ecosystem through nearly 150 interactive events spread across more than 80 venues.
The event, presented by Delta Air Lines, is one of the best festivals in Atlanta.
When Is The Atlanta Science Festival?
The Atlanta Science Festival takes place from March 7 to March 21, 2026, this year and promises to be a science-filled adventure.
Here’s what’s in store if you decide to attend the festival.
- GEORGIA TECH SCIENCE & ENGINEERING DAY
- ANIMALS IN MOTION: BIOMECHANICS DAY AT ZOO ATLANTA
- ATLANTA FERMENTATION FESTIVAL
- ADVENTURE LAB AT MASON MILL
- ADVENTURE LAB AT MASON MILL
The festival officially launched on Saturday, March 7, 2026, with the “Celebrate STEAM” open house at Georgia Tech. From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., attendees explored hands-on activities, demonstrations, and exhibits across campus.
Highlights included robotics, brain science, biology, space exploration, nanotechnology, bioengineering, chemical engineering, computer science, and more.
Visitors connected with student researchers and witnessed cutting-edge advancements in a free, family-friendly environment.This kickoff set the tone for two weeks of discovery, with events ranging from workshops and talks to outdoor trails and performances.
A Diverse Lineup of Events
Throughout the festival period, participants can enjoy a packed schedule of experiences. Examples from the 2026 lineup include:
- Science Escape Room Trails at Mason Mill Park (multiple dates, such as March 10, 11, and 14), offering puzzle-solving adventures infused with scientific concepts.
- University-led demonstrations, lab tours, and public lectures at institutions like Emory University and Georgia Tech.
- Community partner events at museums, parks, libraries, and businesses across metro Atlanta.
Many events are free, while others may require registration or a small fee. The full interactive schedule is available on the official website at atlantasciencefestival.org/events-2026/, where filters help users find activities by date, audience (adults, families, kids), location, or topic.
The Grand Finale: Exploration Expo
The festival culminates in the Exploration Expo on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Piedmont Park (near 10th Street and Charles Allen Drive).
This free, flagship event is Atlanta’s largest interactive science gathering, typically attracting over 20,000 visitors.
Attendees can expect around 100 hands-on booths hosted by local universities, organizations, companies, and research groups.
Past and anticipated highlights include touching a real human brain, peering inside a jet engine, robotics displays, chemistry experiments, environmental science demos, and live performances. It’s especially geared toward families with children ages 8–13, but engaging for all ages and interests.
Parking is limited due to crowds—public transit, walking, or rideshares are recommended. In case of severe weather, updates appear on the festival’s website and social media.
Sponsors and Community Impact
Presented by Delta Air Lines, the 2026 festival receives major support from founders Emory University and Georgia Tech, plus key sponsors including UPS, Google, Cox, NCR Atleos Foundation, and others.
Over 80 community partners collaborate to produce the events, emphasizing Atlanta’s role as a hub for innovation and STEM education.
The festival fosters connections between the public and local scientists, promotes STEM career awareness, and celebrates how these fields improve daily life and shape the future.
Those are just some of the things you’ll learn at the Atlanta Science Festival. Check out the full schedule.
Final Word
The Festival is brought to you by Science ATL and community partners, with generous support from presenting sponsor Delta Air Lines, founding partners Emory University, Georgia Tech, and the Metro Atlanta Chamber, as well as other sponsors like NCR Foundation, UPS, Lenz Marketing, Cox Enterprises, Kennesaw State University, Lockheed Martin, Mercer University, and many more.
Atlanta has a thriving cultural, food, sports and music scene, with venues like the Tabernacle and the Fox Theatre hosting concerts and shows throughout the year. The city is also home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Opera, offering world-class performances for music lovers.
Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots. Explore the city.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
-
Hey Atlanta, how does a giant weekly food market sound? Delicious, right? It’s called Smorgasburg and it’s already a thing in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami.
Now Smorgasburg finally is happening every week in Georgia’s largest city.
What Is Smorgasburg Atlanta?
Smorgasburg brings together local vendors so they can express themselves and their cuisines to the masses. Attendees can expect great eats, drinks and more for this weekly event that begins in March 7, 2026 in downtown Atlanta.
This new ongoing outdoor street food festival brings a rotating lineup of vendors to South Downtown, offering a diverse range of global cuisines.
It’s a great opportunity to sample innovative street food in a casual, open-air setting. Check roughdraftatlanta.com for updates on vendors and schedules.
When Did Smorgasbord Debut in Atlanta?
Smorgasburg Atlanta debuted in South Downtown in October 18, 2025. Since then, it’s been happening every Saturday.
Where Is Smorgasbord in Atlanta?
The weekly open-air food festival will take place every Saturday at 140 Forsyth Street SW, featuring over 40 local vendors, including food trucks, pop-up tents, artists, and retailers, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Final Word
If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
-
This weekend, the Atlanta Fair returns to the city. This family-friendly fun event features rides, sweet treats and loads of entertainment. Tickets are now on sale.
When Does The Atlanta Fair Come To Town?
Kicking off Friday, March 6, the Atlanta Fair has transformed the fairgrounds across from Georgia State’s Center Parc Stadium into a vibrant carnival wonderland. Running through Sunday, April 12, the event promises weeks of classic carnival excitement right in the heart of Atlanta, perfect for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone craving some springtime fun.
Located at 688 Central Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30315, the grounds are buzzing with bright lights, spinning rides, challenging midway games, and all the beloved fair foods that make memories. Attendees can dive into a thrilling lineup of attractions, including heart-pounding favorites like the iconic HIMALAYA, Expo Wheel, Nemesis 360, Zero Gravity, Alien Abduction, and Time Warp.
Classic staples such as bumper cars, the Deluxe Sizzler, Silver Streak, and Orient Express are back, while younger visitors will love pint-sized adventures on the all-new Jumping Jumbos and Tea Cup ride, Scooby-Doo Kiddie Train, Motorcycle Jump, and more.
A fresh mix of nostalgic fair favorites and local-inspired bites rounds out the experience, ensuring there’s something delicious for every palate.
Event Details at a Glance
What: Atlanta Fair, Spring 2026
When: Friday, March 6 – Sunday, April 12- Monday – Thursday: 5 – 10 p.m.
- Friday: 5 – 11 p.m.
- Saturday – Sunday: 1 – 11 p.m.
Where: Across from Georgia State (Center Parc Stadium), 688 Central Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30315
Admission Fees:
- Children (42” & under): $3
- Monday – Thursday (42” & over): $5
- Friday – Sunday (42” & over): $10
Ride Options:
- Unlimited Ride Armband: $35 (valid from open to close; sold until 1 hour before closing)
- Single tickets: $1.25 each
- Book of 25 tickets: $25
(Rides typically require 2–4 tickets each per person.)
Important Policies to Know
- Youth Attendance: After 6 p.m. each day, no one under 17 will be admitted without a parent or guardian.
- Clear Bag Policy: Only clear bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12” are permitted. One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags and small clutch purses (max 4.5” x 6.5”) are also allowed. Diaper bags and medically necessary items are permitted after inspection and tagging. All bags are subject to search.
- Prohibited Items: Backpacks, purses/clutches larger than allowed sizes, fanny packs, luggage, briefcases, tinted or patterned plastic bags, mesh bags, camera cases, binocular cases, and more.
- Gate Entry Cutoff: No entry Sunday–Thursday after 9 p.m., or Friday–Saturday after 10 p.m.
Whether you’re chasing thrills on the big rides, winning prizes at the games, or just enjoying classic cotton candy under the lights, the Atlanta Fair is the perfect way to welcome spring in Atlanta. Grab your friends, family, or date night crew and head downtown—it’s open now through April 12! For the latest updates, check the official Atlanta Fair Facebook page or atlantafair.net.
The fair accepts all credit & debit cards (MC, Visa, AX, Discover), Apple Pay, Google Pay and cash. The fair stops selling armbands one hour.
What Times Will The Atlanta Fair Open And Close?
Monday thru Thursday
- Opens at 5PM
- Get in GATE before 9PM & Stay until 10PM
Friday
- Opens at 5PM
- Get in GATE before 10PM & Stay until 11PM
Saturday & Sunday
- Opens at 1PM
- Get in GATE before 10PM & Stay until 11PM
Final Word
Atlanta Fair is a can’t miss event for the whole family. Remember that tickets are available at the gate.
The Atlanta Fair is just one of many things to do outdoors in the Georgia. Check out our list.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
-
Atlanta locals have a meaningful way to support breast cancer awareness and treat themselves to expert lingerie advice this March.
Dillard’s at The Shops at Buckhead (1371 Market St NW, Atlanta, GA 30363) will host a “Fit for the Cure®” event on Thursday, March 12, 2026, starting at 11:00 AM and running throughout the day.
Presented by lingerie brand Wacoal in partnership with Susan G. Komen®, the event offers free professional bra fittings while raising funds for breast cancer support.
For every guest who receives a fitting and purchases a regular-priced Wacoal or b.tempt’d bra, Wacoal donates $5 to Susan G. Komen®.
All donations go directly toward Komen’s patient services, including the Patient Care Center, which provides breast health resources, financial assistance, clinical trial information, and education.
The initiative, now in its 25th year, emphasizes empowering women through proper fit—something that can boost confidence and comfort—while contributing to the fight against breast cancer.
“Bring your daughters, friends, sisters, and neighbors for a girls’ day with purpose,” event organizers encourage. Participants can expect personalized, expert fittings to help refresh their lingerie wardrobe and make a direct impact on breast cancer support.
The fittings are completely free, with no purchase required to participate. However, purchases of qualifying bras trigger the $5 donation. Appointments are recommended for convenience, but walk-ins are welcome.
To book a fitting or learn more, visit the Dillard’s event page at dillards.com/events/fit-for-the-cure.
This event is part of a broader series of Fit for the Cure® activities across metro Atlanta and beyond in March 2026, highlighting community-focused efforts during Breast Cancer Awareness season extensions and related programming.
Atlanta residents looking for a practical, feel-good way to give back are encouraged to stop by and support this long-standing partnership between Wacoal and Susan G. Komen®.
-
The Publix Atlanta Marathon Weekend kicks off this Saturday with the 5K and youth events, followed by the full marathon and half marathon on Sunday, March 1—marking the 20th running of this beloved Atlanta tradition organized by the Atlanta Track Club.
With the Georgia World Congress Center Expo in full swing today and tomorrow (Friday, February 27, and Saturday, February 28, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Hall C4), thousands of runners are picking up bibs, shopping gear, and attending sessions like course previews with In-Training Coach Bob Wells.
Many are also taking in stories from marathon founder Victoria Seahorn, and chats with “streakers” who’ve completed all 19 prior events.
The 5K starts bright and early Saturday at 7:15 a.m. from The Home Depot Backyard (1 Backyard Way, Atlanta, GA 30313), giving participants a fun, fast tour to kick off race weekend.
Note: The 5K is officially sold out, but limited spots may remain for Sunday’s longer distances—check atlantatrackclub.org for updates.
Runners are preparing to tackle a certified, rolling-hills course that winds through iconic Atlanta spots: past Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park, Piedmont Park, Grant Park, and campuses including Georgia Tech, Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Spelman College, and Georgia State University.
It’s a true city showcase, and this milestone year has generated huge excitement.
Weather looks favorable for performance: Forecasts for Saturday, February 28, point to daytime highs around 60-64°F with partly cloudy skies—milder than a typical late-February chill, though overnight lows could dip into the upper 40s.
Sunday, March 1, should be similar or slightly warmer. Organizers advise layering up for early-morning starts and staying hydrated, as these conditions are ideal for PR attempts but can still feel brisk pre-dawn.
Road closures will impact Midtown, downtown, and surrounding areas both days—starting early Saturday morning for the 5K and expanding Sunday for the marathon and half.
Atlanta Track Club strongly recommends taking MARTA to avoid traffic delays; trains will run with increased frequency (every 10-20 minutes on key lines, with extras during peak times). Full closure maps and times are posted at atlantatrackclub.org/road-closures.
Local runners shared their prep vibes at the Expo: “This course hits all the heart of Atlanta—rolling but rewarding,” said one Midtown resident training for the half.
Elite athletes are expected to vie for top spots, and pace teams will help guide thousands chasing Boston qualifiers or personal milestones.
Whether you’re running, cheering, or just navigating the city this weekend, Publix Atlanta Marathon Weekend promises energy, community, and a celebration of 20 years of finish-line memories. Stay tuned for live updates, results, and post-race coverage from Atlanta News!
More From AtlantaFi.com:
-
Norcross, GA – February 19, 2026 – With Ramadan approaching, metro Atlanta foodies and families are gearing up for one of the most anticipated late-night events of the season: the Atlanta Ramadan Food Festival, returning for its second year on Friday, February 27, into Saturday, February 28, from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Atlanta Ramadan Food Festival: for a Vibrant Late-Night Celebration
Hosted at 2077 Beaver Ruin Rd. in Norcross, this overnight night market-style festival transforms the venue into a welcoming hub of halal eats, artisan shopping, and cultural experiences.
Featuring more than 60 carefully curated halal food vendors, the event promises diverse flavors from around the world with no menu overlap—ensuring every bite feels fresh and exciting.
Rooted in Ramadan traditions of iftar (breaking the fast) and suhoor (pre-dawn meal), the festival blends delicious food with community spirit, artisan markets, engaging cultural activations, and a dedicated kids’ area.
Indoor and outdoor spaces create a cozy, inclusive atmosphere designed for Muslims and non-Muslims alike to come together, enjoy the vibes, and celebrate the holy month.
This year’s event is intentionally limited in space and tickets to keep the experience intimate and high-quality.
Organizers from the Atlanta Muslim Festival Collective have highlighted special perks, including a custom waffle bar collaboration with Waffle House—where the first 500 ticket buyers score free waffles!
Co-Founder Hasnain Lakhani, a metro Atlanta restaurateur and community advocate, has been instrumental in bringing these inclusive food festivals to life, building on the success of previous events to foster cultural connection through cuisine.
Whether you’re craving global halal dishes, unique artisan finds, family-friendly activities, or simply a memorable night out, this festival offers something for everyone.
Event Details:
- When: Friday, February 27 – Saturday, February 28, 2026 | 9 p.m. – 6 a.m.
- Where: 2077 Beaver Ruin Rd., Norcross, GA 30071
- Tickets: $12 (plus fees), available online via cenvi.events (limited availability—grab yours soon!)
- More Info: Follow @atlramadanfoodfest on Instagram or visit the Atlanta Muslim Festival Collective website for updates, vendor previews, and high-res images.
The Atlanta Ramadan Food Festival is more than a food event—it’s a delicious way to welcome Ramadan, support local businesses, and experience the warmth of Atlanta’s diverse communities. Don’t miss out on this one-night-only extravaganza!
Stay tuned to your local source for Atlanta-area events, food news, and community spotlights.
More Content From AtlantaFi.com:
-
The Sip & Swine BBQ Festival is set to make its mouthwatering return to Coolray Field in Lawrenceville, bringing Georgia’s top BBQ competition vibes right to Gwinnett County.
This is one of the best metro Atlanta festivals of 2026.
This beloved annual event, now in its 11th year, is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, March 6-7, 2026, with the main public day on Saturday, March 7, running from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Note: The original invitation referenced March 7 as the Saturday focus—full details confirm the two-day format.)
Sip & Swine Fest: What To Know
Admission and parking are both completely free, making it an easy, family-friendly outing for Atlanta-area residents.
Attendees can look forward to fierce competition BBQ action—featuring pro and backyard teams battling it out in categories like chicken, pork, ribs, brisket, and more—plus a popular People’s Choice BBQ Tasting (Saturday 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., with taster kits available for attendee judging), a Kid’s Q Competition for young pitmasters ages 6-15, nonstop live music throughout both days, food vendors, craft booths, and plenty of fun for all ages.
At its core, Sip & Swine is a major fundraiser benefiting Home of Hope at Gwinnett Children’s Shelter, which supports homeless children and their mothers on the path to independence. The event has already raised over $1 million to date for this vital cause, with all proceeds continuing to go directly to the shelter.
Past festivals have delivered that perfect mix of smoky aromas, lively crowds, great tunes, and community spirit—captured in the photos shared from previous years.
Whether you’re a BBQ fanatic, looking for a fun weekend outing, or want to support a great local charity, mark your calendar and head to Coolray Field. For more details, ticket options (if any special tastings or add-ons apply), or updates, visit sipandswine.com.
Questions? Reach out to event organizer Chrissy Keheley (contact info available on the site or in official releases). We’d love to see you there—come hungry and ready to enjoy one of metro Atlanta’s tastiest traditions!
Final Word
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:
