So you live in Atlanta and you’re bored this weekend? Honestly, you have no reason to be. Between Juneteenth celebrations, live music, sports, festivals, and plenty of opportunities to get outside before the Georgia heat fully takes over, there is something happening every day. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly festival, a concert, or just an excuse to get out of the house, here are a few events worth checking out this weekend.
June 18
Cocktails in the Garden
If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to spend your Thursday night, the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s popular after-hours event is back. Grab a drink, listen to live music, and wander through the garden after dark. It is one of the prettiest ways to spend an evening in the city. The event runs throughout the summer and is a perfect excuse to enjoy Niki in the Garden before sunset. (Atlanta Botanical Garden)
More information:
https://atlantabg.org/calendar/category/atlanta/
Czechia vs. South Africa
Mercedes-Benz Stadium continues hosting international soccer matches this month, and this matchup is expected to bring plenty of energy to downtown Atlanta. Soccer fans have definitely had a busy summer. (Axios)
More information:
https://www.mercedesbenzstadium.com
June 19
Juneteenth Atlanta Parade & Music Festival
One of the biggest Juneteenth celebrations in the Southeast returns to Piedmont Park all weekend long. Expect live music, food vendors, community organizations, cultural exhibits, and family-friendly activities throughout the festival grounds. The festival runs June 19–21 and is free to attend. (Juneteenth Events)
More information:
https://www.juneteenthatl.com
Juneteenth at the Grove
Celebrating Black culture, Black-owned businesses, food, music, and community, Juneteenth at the Grove is bringing a full day of programming to Atlanta’s Westside. This is one of the newer Juneteenth events in the city and is expected to draw thousands of attendees. (juneteenthatthegrove.com)
More information:
https://www.juneteenthatthegrove.com
Conway The Machine
Hip-hop fans can catch Conway The Machine live at The Masquerade on Friday night. If you’re looking for a concert that feels a little different from the major arena shows, this could be a great option. (Axios)
More information:
https://www.masqueradeatlanta.com
June 20
Juneteenth Freedom Day Parade
The highlight of the Juneteenth festivities is Saturday’s Freedom Day Parade. Floats, marching bands, dance teams, community organizations, and performers will make their way from the MLK Center to Piedmont Park before the celebration continues throughout the afternoon. (Juneteenth Events)
More information:
https://www.juneteenthatl.com
Atlanta Dream vs. Indiana Fever
One of the biggest sporting events of the weekend is happening at State Farm Arena as the Atlanta Dream take on the Indiana Fever. Expect a packed crowd and one of the best atmospheres you’ll find in Atlanta this weekend. (Ticketmaster US)
More information:
https://dream.wnba.com
Atlanta Beltline Fest
Food, live music, vendors, and performances are taking over Pittsburgh Yards for Atlanta Beltline Fest. With major performers, local businesses, and plenty of food options, this is shaping up to be one of the city’s biggest festivals of the weekend. (Axios)
More information:
https://beltline.org
Pride Night at Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta is hosting a special after-hours Pride event featuring entertainment, activities, and a chance to explore the zoo in a completely different atmosphere than a normal daytime visit. (Axios)
More information:
https://zooatlanta.org
June 21
Juneteenth Atlanta Festival – Final Day
If you missed the festivities earlier in the weekend, Sunday is your last chance to experience the Juneteenth Atlanta Festival. The event wraps up with live performances, vendors, food, family activities, and community celebrations throughout Piedmont Park. (Eventeny)
More information:
https://www.juneteenthatl.com
Juneteenth Freedom Run 5K
Looking to balance out all the festival food? The Freedom Run is part of the Juneteenth weekend festivities and brings runners together for a community-focused event celebrating health, wellness, and freedom. (Eventeny)
More information:
https://www.juneteenthatl.com
Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival
Browse local artists, makers, photographers, and vendors while enjoying one of Atlanta’s favorite parks. Events like this are perfect for people who claim they’re “just looking” and somehow end up buying three things they definitely didn’t need. (Axios)
More information:
https://www.affps.com
If your ideal weekend includes festivals, Juneteenth Atlanta is probably the biggest event happening in the city. If you’re looking for music, Atlanta Beltline Fest and Conway The Machine are great options. And if you want something a little more low-key, Cocktails in the Garden remains one of the best Thursday night events Atlanta has to offer.
