This weekend, don’t miss Reggae Fest – The Return of Vybz Kartel in downtown Atlanta. The star-studded event is happening at downtown Atlanta’s largest concert venue, State Farm Arena.

One of the biggest reggae artists out now, Vybz Kartel, aka Adidja Azim Palmer, was born January 7, 1976, in Kingston, Jamaica. Known as Vybz Kartel, he’s a prominent Jamaican dancehall deejay, often called the “Worl’ Boss” or “King of Dancehall.”

How To Get Tickets

Available through Ticketmaster, with prices starting at $70 and averaging $758 for premium options like floor seats. Buy tickets here.

Various tiers (Bleachers, Grand Stand, Infield, Centre Stage, Cycle Track) offer different experiences, from lively to close-up views.

Kartel gained prominence in the early 2000s with his debut album Up 2 Di Time (2003). His music blends dancehall with reggae and R&B influences, characterized by provocative lyrics, braggadocious delivery, and themes ranging from party anthems to social commentary on working-class struggles.

His notable tracks include “Clarks” (2009), “Romping Shop” (2009, featuring Spice), “Summertime” (2011), and “Fever.” His collaborations include artists like Major Lazer, Rihanna, and Missy Elliott.

What To Expect from the Show

A high-energy reggae concert celebrating Vybz Kartel’s return, featuring live performances and a festive atmosphere. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster; prices vary.

How To Get To State Farm Arena

State Farm Arena is located at 1 State Farm Drive, Atlanta, GA 30303. 

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State Farm Arena, located at 1 State Farm Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, is in the heart of downtown Atlanta’s Centennial Olympic Park District. Here are your best options for getting there, tailored for a traveler possibly heading to a concert or event, as inspired by your interest in vibrant experiences like the Salar de Uyuni:

1. By Public Transit (MARTA)

MARTA is the most stress-free way to avoid downtown traffic and parking hassles, especially during events.

  • Subway: Take the Blue or Green line to the GWCC/CNN Center Station, which is directly across the street from the arena (a 1–2 minute walk). Alternatively, you can get off at Five Points Station (Red, Gold, Blue, Green lines), then walk about 6–8 minutes (0.4 miles) or transfer to a westbound train to GWCC.
  • From Key Stations:
    • Hartsfield-Jackson Airport: Take the Red or Gold line north to Five Points, then transfer to the Blue/Green line west to GWCC (30–40 minutes, $2.50 one-way).
    • Doraville Station (if coming from outside the perimeter): Free parking available, then take the Gold line to Five Points and transfer (45–50 minutes).
  • Bus: Lines 26, 55, or 94 stop near the arena. Closest stops include Forsyth St @ Alabama St (4-minute walk) or Marietta St @ Centennial Olympic Park Dr (4-minute walk).
  • Tips: MARTA can get crowded after concerts, but it’s safer and cheaper than driving during events. Buy a Breeze Card in advance to avoid ticket machine lines.

2. By Car

Driving offers flexibility but comes with traffic and parking challenges during events.

  • Directions:
    • From I-75/I-85: Take Exit 249C (Williams St) from the north or Exit 249D (Spring St) from the south. Spring St turns into Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW; turn right on Baker St, then left on Marietta St to reach the arena.
    • From I-20: Take the exit for I-75/I-85N toward Atlanta, then follow Exit 249D (Spring St) and the same route as above.
  • Parking:
    • Pre-purchase parking through ParkMobile to save time and money. Options include:
      • State Farm Drive: Steps from the arena, uncovered, $10–$30 depending on the event.
      • Diamond Deck (100 Lower Andrew Young International Dr): VIP parking with player/artist entrance, <1-minute walk.
      • Sapphire Deck (127 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW): Across the street, <5-minute walk.
      • Ruby Lot (199 Alabama St SW): Below street level, <5-minute walk.
    • All lots offer ADA parking, but prices vary by event, and traffic can be gridlocked if there are simultaneous events at nearby venues like Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

3. By Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

  • Drop-Off: Rideshare drop-off is typically at the Andrew Young International Blvd entrance, near Gate 4, a short walk to the arena.
  • Cost: From Midtown, expect $10–$15; from the airport, $30–$40, depending on surge pricing.
  • Tip: Post-event pickup can be chaotic. Walk a few blocks away (e.g., toward Centennial Olympic Park) to avoid crowds and surge pricing.

Final Word

ortunately, there are other ways and venues to enjoy live music in Atlanta. Our Atlanta Live Music Guide lets you know every week and each fun-filled weekend who’s playing and where.  

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.

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