Atlanta festivals Tag Archive

  • AFWF 2026

    Atlanta Food & Wine Festival 2026 Announces Chefs, Talent

    4 Min Read

    ATLANTA — The Atlanta Food & Wine Festival presented by Invesco QQQ will mark its 16th year Sept. 10–13 at The Home Depot Backyard with a four-day lineup of tasting events, celebrity hosts and partner activations built around the theme “The City is the Story.”

    Organizers say nearly 100 Atlanta chefs, restaurants, beverage partners and culinary personalities will take part. Tickets are on sale at atlfoodandwinefestival.com.

    AFWF Announces Chefs, Talent

    Host talent includes Atlanta Journal-Constitution food and dining editor Monti Carlo; “Bizarre Foods” host Andrew Zimmern; chef and caterer Shawn Osbey; restaurateur Ford Fry; Food Network star Kardea Brown; and “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star, restaurateur and cookbook author Kelli Potter.

    Featured chefs include James Beard Award semifinalist Tana Bhamaraniyama of Tyde Tate Kitchen; cookbook author Renee Blackman; Food Network “Chopped” champion Gary Caldwell of Marcus Bar & Grille; Anthony Dudley of MICHELIN-recognized Hattie B’s; James Beard Award semifinalists Monique and Paul Feybesse of Tarts de Feybesse; James Beard Award nominee Ronald Hsu of MICHELIN-recognized Lazy Betty; Billy Kramer of NFA Burger; James Beard Award nominee Duane Nutter of Southern National; Gee Smalls of Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar; Biff “MrBBQ” Smith of Mobile Chef of Atlanta; and James Beard Award semifinalist Deborah VanTrece of VanTrece Hospitality Group. The full talent list is at atlfoodandwinefestival.com/talent.

    READ up on the 2026 Atlanta Food & Wine Festival.

    Invesco QQQ returns as presenting partner. Goya Foods is presenting partner of the Tasting Tents and official Hispanic foods partner, with Executive Chef Fernando Desa at a dedicated station. Mike’s Amazing is presenting partner of Stacked: The Burger Social and official mayo and mustard partner, serving a different burger each day from its Airstream trailer.

    Other partner experiences include Publix cake samples and chef demonstrations on the Publix Culinary Demonstration Stage; wines and spirits from Pernod Ricard; Caymus Vineyards wine from Princess Cruise Lines paired with grilled New York strip; two Coca-Cola signature cocktails created for the festival, the Dirty South Coke and Edgewood Express; Blade and Bow Kentucky Straight Bourbon at a Pony Trailer cocktail experience; and hospitality from official host hotel Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park. Organizers also cited partner giveaways and discounted rideshare.

    “The strength of the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival comes from the incredible partners who share our passion for showcasing the South’s culinary community,” said Brett Friedman, founder and CEO of a21. “Their collaboration helps transform the festival into a one-of-a-kind experience guests can explore and enjoy in so many different ways.”

    AFWF Event schedule

    Thursday, Sept. 10 — The Atlanta Standard, hosted by Monti Carlo
    Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods
    VIP 6:30–10 p.m.; general admission 7:30–10 p.m.
    Chef-driven bites from Deborah VanTrece, Simon Warren of Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park, Anthony Dudley and others, plus cocktails, wine, a saxophonist and live music.
    GA $135; VIP $185

    Friday, Sept. 11 — Flavors of Atlanta, hosted by Andrew Zimmern
    Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods
    VIP 6:30–10 p.m.; general admission 7:30–10 p.m.
    Walk-around tasting highlighting Latin, Asian, Caribbean and other influences. Featured chefs include Monique and Paul Feybesse and Tana Bhamaraniyama. Caribbean dancers and a steel pannist perform.
    GA $155; VIP $205

    Saturday, Sept. 12 — The Southern Spread, hosted by Shawn Osbey
    Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods
    VIP noon–3:30 p.m.; general admission 1–3:30 p.m.
    Southern classics and modern interpretations. Featured chefs include Biff “MrBBQ” Smith, Gee Smalls, Gary Caldwell, Renee Blackman and Duane Nutter.
    GA $155; VIP $205

    Saturday, Sept. 12 — Stacked: The Burger Social, hosted by Ford Fry, presented by Mike’s Amazing
    VIP 6:30–9:30 p.m.; general admission 7:15–9:30 p.m.
    Burger tasting with participating chefs including Billy Kramer and Eleazar Fuerte of Mike’s Amazing. Guests vote for the Mike’s Amazing People’s Choice Burger Award.
    GA $125; VIP $155

    Saturday, Sept. 12 — Whiskey & Fire Atlanta
    Guardian Works, 775 Echo St. NW
    VIP 5–8:30 p.m.; general admission 5:45–8:30 p.m.
    Second-year collaboration between Heritage Fire and Whiskies of the World, with open-fire cooking by chefs including Black Girls Grilling and Biff “MrBBQ” Smith and hundreds of whiskies.
    GA $129; early access $169

    Sunday, Sept. 13 — The Homecoming, hosted by Kardea Brown
    Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods
    VIP and general admission noon–3:30 p.m.
    Grill-focused tasting with a live marching band. Featured chefs include Simon Warren.
    GA $135; VIP $185

    Sunday, Sept. 13 — Southern Fried: A Fried Chicken Affair, hosted by Kelli Potter
    VIP 4:30–7:30 p.m.; general admission 5:15–7:30 p.m.
    Walk-around fried chicken tasting from Southern and global styles. Chefs include Ronald Hsu and Anthony Dudley.
    GA $125; VIP $155

    Tickets and the complete calendar are available at atlfoodandwinefestival.com.

    Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?

    Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta

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  • Piedmont Park Arts Festival

    Piedmont Park Arts Festival Happening In Midtown

    2 Min Read

    The Piedmont Park Arts Festival is happening this weekend in Midtown Atlanta. It’s one of the city’s top festivals for a reason.

    They’ll be arts and crafts, food and more on site. The festival is free and brought to us by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces.

    Piedmont Park Arts Festival 2026: What You Need To Know

    Bring the whole family out for a good time! There will be more than 250 artisans and craftsmen showing off a a wide variety of arts and crafts. As always, you can also expect plenty of local food and beverage concessions including “gourmet” food trucks.

    There will also be live acoustic musical performances as well as a kids area for the little ones.

    When Is The Piedmont Park Arts Festival 2026?

    This year’s Piedmont Park Arts Festival is set for the following dates:

    • Sat., August 15, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
    • Sun., August 17, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

    Where Will The Piedmont Park Arts Festival Be Held?

    The festival will be held in Midtown’s crown jewel greenspace, Piedmont Park.
     
    Location:
    Piedmont Park
    1071 Piedmont Ave.
    Atlanta, GA 30309

    Final Word

    Don’t let another weekend pass you by! Take advantage of Atlanta’s great outdoors. Here are some fun things to do outside.
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  • Atlanta Quilt Festival

    18th Annual Atlanta Quilt Festival Runs This Weekend at Southwest Arts Center in South Fulton

    3 Min Read

    The 18th Annual Atlanta Quilt Festival is underway at the Southwest Arts Center in South Fulton and continues through September 5, 2026.

    Atlanta Quilt Festival: What To Know

    This long-running celebration of textile art highlights African American quilting traditions alongside traditional, modern, and art quilts, drawing makers and visitors for exhibits, workshops, lectures, and community events. Not to mention, it’s one of the top festivals in Atlanta.

    Dates, Location & Hours

    • Dates: July 31 – September 5, 2026
    • Location: Southwest Arts Center, 915 New Hope Road, South Fulton, GA 30331
    • Viewing hours: Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (hours begin August 1)

    The festival features a juried exhibition of more than 100 quilts. It emphasizes the preservation and promotion of African American quilting and other textile arts while welcoming work across styles. A standout special exhibit, “Music Moves Movements,” explores the deep ties between music, song, and social justice movements—from spirituals to freedom anthems—through original quilt works.

    Workshops, Classes & Events

    Beyond the gallery displays, the festival offers a full slate of hands-on classes, master classes, lectures, and trunk shows. Offerings span beginner to advanced levels and include topics such as:

    • Beginning quilting and free-motion quilting
    • Bag making and hand embroidery
    • Paper piecing (including a Niemeyer-method master class)
    • Kawandi slow-stitching in the Siddi tradition
    • Silk painting, T-shirt quilts, pixel quilts, and Instagram for quilters
    • An “AI Meets Quilting” class that introduces generative tools for design inspiration

    Many classes include materials guidance, continental breakfast or lunch, and separate ticket fees (typically in the $40–$65 range depending on the session). Check the official schedule for exact dates, times, and availability, as sessions continue on weekends and select weekdays through early September.

    Why It Matters

    Founded and sustained as a space that honors quilting as both craft and cultural storytelling, the Atlanta Quilt Festival has grown into an 18-year tradition. It provides a welcoming platform for established artists and newcomers alike while spotlighting the historical and contemporary significance of African American textile traditions. Recent coverage has highlighted its role in community connection and creative expression.

    Admission and class ticket details can vary; the most current information, RSVPs, and purchases are available on the official website, atlantaquiltfestival.com. The Southwest Arts Center is located in South Fulton, making the festival an accessible metro Atlanta destination for a day (or multiple visits) of art, learning, and inspiration.

    Whether you’re a longtime quilter, a curious beginner, or simply looking for a meaningful cultural outing this summer, the Atlanta Quilt Festival offers a rich, multi-week experience that runs through the first weekend of September.

    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:

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  • Fairburn’s Seafood & BBQ Festival and Concert Southern soul Music Fest

    Fairburn’s Seafood & BBQ Festival and Concert Returns

    3 Min Read

    The City of Fairburn’s annual Seafood & BBQ Festival and Concert is heading back to Fairburn City Center on Friday, August 21, delivering a perfect close to the summer season with delicious food, live entertainment, and a strong sense of community in the heart of downtown.

    Fairburn’s Seafood & BBQ Festival: What To Know

    This signature “Fairburn Outside!” event promises an evening of flavorful seafood, savory barbecue, and performances by The Boykinz, J-WONN, Meeka Meeka, Mike Clark Jr., and Cupid. Hosting duties fall to DeeDee Parker of KISS 104.1, with music provided by DJ Antron.

    Expect line dancing, festival eats, high-energy shows, and plenty of local community spirit. The event is completely free to attend. Organizers encourage visitors to bring lawn chairs, gather friends and family, and settle in for a night of music, culture, and connection.

    Fairburn’s Seafood & BBQ Festival and Concert

    More Fun in Fairburn

    While the Seafood & BBQ Festival is a highlight, Fairburn offers plenty of other ways to enjoy the area year-round.

    Stroll historic downtown Fairburn, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The district features late 19th- and early 20th-century commercial buildings and train depots, along with unique shopping, dining, and a walkable small-town atmosphere just a short drive from Atlanta.

    Outdoor enthusiasts can head to Duncan Park for its pool, splash pad, playground, sports fields, and walking paths—ideal for families. Nearby Cochran Mill Park provides hiking, mountain biking, and horseback-riding trails through scenic woods, creeks, and waterfalls across hundreds of acres.

    For active fun with a social twist, Swing ATL offers an 18-hole mini-golf course, axe-throwing lanes, vibrant murals, and a lively atmosphere suitable for families, date nights, or groups. Catch live theater at the Southside Theatre Guild, one of Georgia’s oldest all-volunteer community theaters, which stages dramas, comedies, improv, and musicals in historic downtown.

    Seasonal draws include the massive Georgia Renaissance Festival (typically spring), complete with jousting, artisans, period food, and immersive entertainment on expansive grounds in Fairburn. Check out the Fairburn Farmers Market in season for local produce, crafts, and community vibes, or relax with craft beer at spots like Cochran Mill Brewing Company.

    Fairburn’s mix of free community events under the “Fairburn Outside!” banner, historic charm, parks, and easy access to Atlanta makes it a welcoming spot for a day trip or longer stay. Mark your calendar for August 21, bring those lawn chairs, and experience one of the city’s can’t-miss summer celebrations.

    Check out our Atlanta Festival Guide for more metro events.

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  • One Musicfest tickets Atlanta

    ONE Musicfest Cancels 2026 Edition to Reimagine the Festival

    2 Min Read

    Atlanta’s long-running ONE Musicfest is sitting out 2026. The 16-year-old event, known for mixing established stars with rising talent, announced it is pausing this year’s edition to rethink its approach and develop a refreshed version.

    Organizers said the break will allow them to move beyond repeating the same format and instead create “the next iteration” with new experiences, energy, and ideas.

    ONE Musicfest Cancels 2026 Festival

    In their statement, they noted that the festival has always aimed to push culture forward and bring generations together rather than simply stage another music event.

    What started with about 1,500 attendees has grown into an annual gathering of more than 100,000 people. Founder Jason “J” Carter has previously highlighted the festival’s focus on uniting legends and emerging artists—an approach reflected in the 2025 lineup that featured Future, the Dungeon Family, Jazmine Sullivan, Kehlani, Ludacris, Leon Thomas, Clipse, Doechii, Chief Keef, Mary J. Blige, and others.

    The festival’s full statement reads:

    “For 16 years, ONE Musicfest has never been content to just throw another music festival. We’ve pushed culture forward, brought generations together, and built something that didn’t exist before we created it. That same commitment to innovation is why we’re pausing ONE Musicfest in 2026.

    Rather than produce the same festival we’ve done in the past, we’re taking this year to build the next iteration of ONE Musicfest with the same bold vision and a commitment to giving you the very best.

    What began with 1,500 music lovers at our very first festival has grown into a homecoming for more than 100,000 people each year. That’s because of you. We never take that for granted.

    We’re spending this year reimagining what’s next. New experiences, new energy, new ideas worthy of what this community has built together.

    To every artist, fan, and supporter who made ONE Musicfest what it is: thank you.”

    No return date has been announced yet, but the organizers made clear they plan to come back with a reimagined version of the Atlanta homecoming.

    Check out our Atlanta Festival Guide.

    More From AtlantaFi.com:

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  • Atlanta Wine & Food Festival: info, dates, time

    Atlanta Food And Wine Festival 2026: What You Need To Know

    4 Min Read

    The Atlanta Food and Wine Festival 2026 presented by Invesco QQQ, returns for its 16th year September 10–13, 2026. It is a four-day celebration of Southern food, wine, beer, and craft spirits (with global influences), spotlighting Atlanta’s chefs, restaurants, neighborhoods, and culinary identity under the theme “The City is the Story.”

    The festival (produced by a21) features signature walk-around Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods, the return of Whiskey & Fire Atlanta, and two new events: Stacked: The Burger Social presented by Mike’s Amazing and Southern Fried: A Fried Chicken Affair. Expect 150–200+ chefs, artisans, beverage professionals, and hospitality leaders, plus live music, activations, and the Publix Culinary Demonstration Stage. 

    Atlanta Food and Wine Festival: Here’s What To Know Before You 

    Main hub: The Home Depot Backyard at Mercedes-Benz Stadium (1 Backyard Way, Atlanta, GA 30313).

    Other location: Whiskey & Fire at Guardian Works (775 Echo St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318). Additional experiences may occur at various metro Atlanta spots. 

    This signature event, a staple since its inception in 2011, will bring together renowned chefs, sommeliers, mixologists, and industry insiders for a weekend of indulgence, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of the South and beyond.

    Approximate schedule (times and details can shift—confirm on the official site)

    Event Schedule and Highlights

    •  Thursday, September 10 | The Atlanta Standard (Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods)
    VIP: 6:30–10 p.m.; General Admission: 7:30–10 p.m.
    Hosted by Monti Carlo (AJC Food & Dining editor). Celebration of Atlanta’s late-night eats, neighborhood legends, rising stars, and cultural icons with chef-driven bites, cocktails, wines, and live music. Tickets starting at ~$99.

    •  Friday, September 11 | Flavors of Atlanta (Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods)
    VIP: 6:30–10 p.m.; General Admission: 7:30–10 p.m.
    Hosted by Andrew Zimmern. Focus on Atlanta’s international influences (Latin, Asian, Caribbean, and more) with high-energy tastings. Tickets starting at ~$109.

    •  Saturday, September 12 | The Southern Spread (Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods)
    VIP: ~12–3:30 p.m.; General Admission: ~1–3:30 p.m.
    Hosted by Chef Shawn Osbey. Afternoon gathering of Southern hospitality, classics, and innovative takes with live music. Tickets starting at ~$109.

    •  Saturday, September 12 | Stacked: The Burger Social presented by Mike’s Amazing
    Early Access: ~6:30–9:30 p.m.; General Admission: ~7:15–9:30 p.m.
    Hosted by Ford Fry. Creative, over-the-top burgers paired with cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits. Tickets starting at ~$89.

    •  Saturday, September 12 | Whiskey & Fire Atlanta (at Guardian Works)
    Collaboration between Heritage Fire and Whiskies of the World. Open-fire cooking stations with chefs, wood-fired bites, and hundreds of global whiskies. (Official event page lists Saturday; earlier announcements varied—verify current details.)

    •  Sunday, September 13 | The Homecoming (Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods)
    VIP/GA roughly midday–afternoon (around 12–3:30 p.m. range in prior listings).
    Hosted by Kardea Brown. Bold, smoky, savory bites with Sunday Funday vibes and Atlanta hospitality. Tickets starting at ~$99.

    •  Sunday, September 13 | Southern Fried: A Fried Chicken Affair
    Early Access/GA in the late afternoon/evening (around 4:30–7:30 p.m. range).
    Hosted by Kelli Potter. Classic Southern and global fried chicken interpretations. Tickets starting at ~$89.

    Hosts of the Tasting Tents also lead live cooking demos at the Publix Culinary Demonstration Stage. Multi-day passes are available. Additional intimate dinners or experiences may be announced. 

    Attendees can expect a dynamic lineup of immersive experiences, walk-around tastings, and gourmet dining, all set against the vibrant backdrop of downtown Atlanta, with the festival entrance conveniently located across from Ponce City Market.

    How Much Do Tickets Cost?

    Tickets for the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival range between $89 to $109. Each ticket will include:

    • Unlimited food
    • Wine and beer cocktails
    • All-day entertainment

    Buy tickets here.

    Final Word

    Among the city’s best festivals, the event is shaping up to be Atlanta’s premiere food festival with a focus on Georgia-grown talent.

    Foodies will also get to enjoy a slate of dishes from the most beloved participating chefs around the South.

    The festival is speedily approaching this year. If you’re planning on going to this year’s reimagined event, here’s everything you need to know.

    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.

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  • Blues, Brews, and BBQ in Fayetteville

    Canceled: Blues, Brews & BBQ Happening in Fayetteville

    2 Min Read

    UPDATE: Due to stormy weather, Blues, Brews & BBQ is canceled for this weekend.

    UPDATE: Due to stormy weather, Blues, Brews & BBQ is canceled for this weekend.

    t’s going down this weekend at The ‘Ville this weekend.

    Originally scheduled for Saturday, July 25, 2026, the event was set to take place at The ‘Ville Amphitheater (also known as Fayetteville Amphitheater or Southern Ground Amphitheater) at 301 Lafayette Avenue in downtown Fayetteville, Georgia. Doors were planned to open at 6:00 PM, with the show starting at 7:00 PM and running until around 10:00 PM.

    Blues, Brew & BBQ is one of the best festivals in Atlanta‘s area.

    Blues, Brews and BBQ in Fayetteville: Planned Lineup and Atmosphere

    The evening was billed as a celebration of blues, craft brews, and barbecue, headlined by the Texas Headhunters—a guitar-driven supergroup featuring Ian Moore, Johnny Moeller, and Jesse Dayton. Supporting acts included The Venus Kings, an Atlanta-based soul, funk, and blues band, and Sons N Britches.

    Attendees could look forward to live music under the stars in the outdoor venue, along with food vendors offering BBQ and other treats, plus options for brews. Ticket prices had ranged from about $23 to $105 depending on seating.

    Cancellation Details

    City and venue officials announced the cancellation citing the rain forecast. All tickets will be automatically refunded, with no action required from ticket holders. Refunds are expected to process and appear in accounts within 3–5 business days.

    Organizers expressed disappointment but encouraged fans to check upcoming shows at The Ville. The amphitheater’s 2026 summer concert series continues with other events, including tribute acts and festivals later in the season—details and tickets are available at thevilleamp.com or theville.freshtix.com.

    While this weekend’s blues, brews, and BBQ gathering won’t happen as planned, Fayetteville’s downtown venue remains a hub for live outdoor music just south of Atlanta. Check official sources for the latest on future dates and any potential rescheduling.

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  • Atlanta Ice Cream Festival: Date, time, info

    Atlanta Ice Cream Festival 2026 | Here’s What To Know

    2 Min Read

    Are you game for some stone-cold ice cream this Saturday? The Atlanta Ice Cream Festival is once again happening in the city’s largest park.

    If you’re looking for a cool place for some cool treats? The Atlanta Ice Cream Festival will take place at Piedmont Park in Midtown.

    Come out to Piedmont Park in the heat of the summer and cool off with some ice cream at this festival.

    Atlanta Ice Cream Festival: Everything You Need To Know

    Historically, attendees have been able to come to the festival and enjoy delectable local ice cream, gelato, and more, while celebrating the season with games, activities.

    When Is The 2026 Atlanta Ice Cream Festival?

    The Atlanta Ice Cream Festival is set for Saturday, July 25, 2026 in Midtown’s largest park. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

    The Atlanta Ice Cream Festival is still slated to be held at Piedmont Park in Midtown. Here’s a map to help you find it.

    https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3316.0547004501445!2d-84.37599168497829!3d33.78508558067958!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x88f504395064ac19%3A0xf3aeea4ef52f350e!2sPiedmont+Park!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sus!4v1560710451269!5m2!1sen!2sus

    This festival is one of the premiere outdoor events in Atlanta this year. Held in Atlanta’s prime venues, festival season spotlights the best of the city.

    Whether you prefer neighborhood events or huge festivals, all ages will be accommodated when it comes to food, live entertainment and more. The best part? Many of Atlanta festivals are FREE.

    Interested In Other Atlanta Events?

    While it’s warm, take advantage of the outdoors. Don’t miss these awesome summer festivals.

    As the weather warms, you can expect the best things to do in Midtown, Atlanta festivals, many who probably have never heard of, to hit every weekend.

    Don’t worry, AtlantaFi.com has got you covered.

    Whether you enjoy food-focused festivals, or some downhome blues under the sunset. We’re going to cover them all.

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  • Atlanta FIFA Fan Festival: Ultimate Guide

    Atlanta FIFA Fan Festival: Ultimate Guide

    4 Min Read


    The FIFA Fan Festival Atlanta opens this Saturday for more World Cup festivities and the like.

    The FIFA World Cup 2026 brings the world’s biggest soccer tournament to Atlanta, and the FIFA Fan Festival Atlanta serves as its beating heart. Located at the iconic Centennial Olympic Park—site of the 1996 Summer Olympics—the festival transforms downtown into a vibrant, inclusive celebration of football, culture, music, food, and Southern hospitality.

    When and Where

    • Dates: Through July 15, 2026 (core program across about 17–18 select days, with potential extensions).
    • Location: Centennial Olympic Park, 265 Park Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30313.
    • Hours: Vary by day (typically opening in the morning or early afternoon and running into the evening, e.g., 11 AM–12 AM on some match days or later for others). Check the official schedule for exact times.

    The festival aligns with Atlanta’s World Cup matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium (referred to as Atlanta Stadium for the tournament), including group stage games and a semifinal.

    Tickets and Entry

    Atlanta FIFA Fan Festival

    The free General Admission tickets are sold out but you can still register for free GA+ and VIP Package passes (up to 6 per order) via the official site. Children under 2 may not need a ticket, but most guests do. Bring a valid ID and your digital QR code.

    Upgrades available:

    • GA+: Guaranteed entry, private bar, and restrooms ($45–$65 range).
    • VIP/Suites: Premium air-conditioned lounges, elevated viewing decks, curated food/drinks, and hospitality for an elevated experience (higher pricing).

    Note: GA tickets generally do not allow re-entry. Weather can affect operations—severe storms have led to early closures or adjustments in the past, with safety prioritized.

    What to Expect: Four Zones

    The park divides into dynamic areas for all ages:

    • Main Stage: Giant screens for live match broadcasts, plus concerts, DJs, and performances. This is the high-energy hub.
    • The Playground: Family-friendly zone with soccer games, activities, and kid-focused experiences.
    • The Pitch: Cultural and tech zone with community programming, podcasts, stories from around the world, and immersive AR/VR experiences.
    • Georgia Street: Local flavors—food vendors showcasing Southern and international cuisine, plus artists and makers.

    Expect fan games, guest appearances, live art, brand activations, and a global atmosphere blending Atlanta’s creativity with World Cup energy.

    Entertainment and Highlights

    Ludacris Free Concerts FIFA Fan Festival

    The lineup mixes local talent, hip-hop, R&B, and international acts. Past and announced performers include:

    • Killer Mike (June 21)
    • EarthGang (July 11)
    • Ludacris (July 14)
    • Others like 6LACK, Nappy Roots, Davido, CeeLo Green, Summer Walker influences, DJs, and more.

    Programming evolves—check daily highlights for matches, music, and special events.

    Food, Drink, and Atmosphere

    Georgia Street delivers local eats alongside global options. Food and beverages are available for purchase (some VIP inclusions). Atlanta’s diverse food scene shines here, from Southern classics to international bites.

    Getting There and Practical Tips

    • Public Transit: MARTA is recommended. The SEC District (formerly GWCC/CNN Center station) is a short walk away. Trains run frequently.
    • Parking: Limited downtown—avoid driving if possible.
    • Arrival: Gates open hours before key matches. Arrive early on big days for better spots and potential upgrades.
    • What to Bring: Clear bag policy applies. Stay hydrated (Atlanta summers are hot and humid). Wear comfortable shoes and team colors.
    • Family-Friendly: All ages welcome; minors should be accompanied.

    Pro Tips:

    • Register early and for multiple days if planning several visits.
    • Combine with other Atlanta events like BeltLine festivities or murals.
    • Download apps or check atlantafwc26.com for real-time updates.

    The Atlanta FIFA Fan Festival™ captures the true spirit of the World Cup: accessible, celebratory, and unifying. Whether you’re a die-hard fan watching every match or soaking in the culture, it’s the perfect place to experience “the world’s game” in the heart of the South. For tickets, full schedule, and updates, visit atlantafwc26.com/fan-fest or the FIFA site.

    More From AtlantaFi.com:

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  • The Battery Atlanta

    Pokémon GO Fest 2026 Brings Trainers Together at The Battery Atlanta

    2 Min Read

    Atlanta, GA – Pokémon GO fans across the metro area have something exciting to look forward to this weekend. On Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., The Battery Atlanta will host a free Pokémon GO Fest celebration open to trainers of all experience levels.

    The event promises a full day of community, competition, and classic Pokémon GO fun right in the heart of the city. Organizers invite players to connect with fellow trainers, explore the venue, and dive into special in-game activities designed for everyone from casual walkers to dedicated raiders.

    What to Expect at Pokémon GO Fest 2026

    • Interactive Activities & Community Vibes: Trainers can participate in hands-on experiences, join group challenges, and mingle with the local Pokémon GO community. The Battery Atlanta’s vibrant outdoor setting provides the perfect backdrop for catching Pokémon while socializing.
    • Special Giveaways: Attendees will have chances to win exclusive merchandise, in-game items, and other Pokémon-themed prizes throughout the day.
    • Epic Raid Battles: A highlight of the event will be Mega Mewtwo Raid Battles. Trainers are encouraged to team up and take on this powerful Mega Pokémon.
    • Featured Pokémon Encounters: Throughout the day, players can look forward to increased spawns and special encounters with featured Pokémon, making every spin of a PokéStop and every step around the venue potentially rewarding.

    Whether you’re a longtime player hunting for rare shinies or a newcomer just getting started, the free event offers an accessible and welcoming atmosphere to enjoy the game in person with others who share the same passion.

    Event Details

    • Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
    • Time: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
    • Location: The Battery Atlanta
    • Cost: Free and open to the public

    No ticket is required, but trainers should come prepared with charged phones, comfortable shoes, and plenty of Poké Balls. Staying hydrated and wearing sunscreen is also recommended for a full day outdoors in mid-July Atlanta weather.

    This local celebration is part of the broader excitement surrounding Pokémon GO’s ongoing events in 2026, giving Atlanta-area players a chance to experience the game’s social side while enjoying one of the city’s premier entertainment districts.

    Got questions or planning to attend? Drop a comment below or tag your fellow trainers on social media with #POGOFest2026ATL. See you out there, Trainers!

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