10 things to do in Atlanta this Labor Day weekend
Access Atlanta Staff
Get ready for an unforgettable Labor Day weekend in Atlanta! From celebrating Black Pride to cheering on the “Ramblin’ Wreck from Georgia Tech,” to Dragon Con taking over downtown, our guide has you covered with some of the best things to do. Dive into the city’s vibrant scene and make this weekend one to remember. And if you’re off on Monday, enjoy!
Here’s the lowdown on Atlanta’s Labor Day weekend extravaganza:
And if you haven’t already heard, Rabun County, Georgia, is an amazing mountain escape that’s just a short trip away. You can experience outdoor adventures of all kinds just a two-hour drive north of downtown Atlanta. With three state parks and countless trails, rivers, lakes and streams, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy everything from thrilling white-water rafting, horseback riding, mountain coasters, and zip-lining to hiking, biking, kayaking, paddle boarding, boating, fishing and camping. There’s also plenty of fine dining, boutique shopping, golfing, art and antique galleries, wineries and distilleries, live music and historic attractions to complete the adventure. And all of it comes with spectacular mountain views, fresh air and a quaint and friendly atmosphere. So skip the crowds and expense of long-distance travel and escape to the mountains of North Georgia. There’s something for everyone in Rabun County! Start your Rabun County mountain adventure today at ExploreRabun.com. The mountains are calling!
37th Annual Dragon Con
Dive into pop culture paradise at Dragon Con! Join 65,000 fans in Atlanta for epic encounters with celebrities, artists, and creators. Show off your cosplay, make friends, and be sure to catch the FREE parade on Saturday morning.
Location: Downtown Atlanta; Date: Aug. 31 through Sept. 4; Admission: $30+; Website: accessatlanta.com
Atlanta Black Pride Weekend
Get ready to party at Atlanta Black Pride this Labor Day weekend! There are tons of events going on around town, including an influencer dinner, the Pure Heat Community Festival, poetry slams and more.
Location: Various locations; Date: Aug. 31 through Sept. 4; Admission: Various events; Website: instagram.com
Aflac Kickoff Game: Louisville v Georgia Tech
Score big as college football returns! Head to Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Friday night for the Aflac Kickoff Game. Georgia Tech takes on Louisville.
Location: Downtown at Mercedes-Benz Stadium - 1 AMB Dr NW; Time: 7:30 p.m.; Date: Friday, Sept. 1; Admission: $36+; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
End of Summer Luau
Say aloha to summer’s end at Ponce City Market’s Roof! Join the luau on Saturday for a tropical blast — limbo, Polynesian fun, themed treats, and prizes await. Plus, a portion of your ticket supports Maui wildfire relief too!
Location: Ponce City Market Rooftop at Skyline Park - 675 Ponce De Leon Ave NE; Time: 11 a.m. to midnight; Date: Saturday, Sept. 2; Admission: $30; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Welcome to South Cobb Festival
Round up the fam and get ready to play this weekend at the Welcome to South Cobb Festival! From live music performances to local treats, games, and even a massive water zone, you’re sure to have a good time.
Location: Mableton at RiverLands Gateway Park - Discovery Boulevard and Mableton Pkwy SW, Mableton, Georgia 30126; Time: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Sept. 2; Admission: $20, kids under 5 free; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
All Things Chile Fest
Spice up your Saturday plans at the All Things Chile Fest at SweetWater Brewing for a sizzling celebration of all things spicy. Sample a variety of mouthwatering sauces, groove to live music, and indulge in flavorful adventures.
Location: Northeast Atlanta at SweetWater Brewing Company - 195 Ottley Dr NE; Time: 1-10 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Sept. 2; Admission: $20; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Taste of Soul Atlanta
This weekend, indulge in soul food, music, and culture over two vibrant days at Taste of Soul Atlanta (TOSA), across from the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. It’s FREE!
Location: West Downtown at Northside Dr. & MLK Jr Dr.; Time: Noon to 9 p.m., Date: Saturday, Sept. 2 and Sunday, Sept. 3; Admission: Free; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Atlanta Hip Hop Day Festival
On Saturday and Sunday, join the Atlanta Hip Hop Day Festival at Historic Fourth Ward Skate Park for an iconic time filled with music, art, and history. Honor the legends and groove to the rhythm of revolution!
Location: East Atlanta at Historic Fourth Ward Park - 680 Dallas St NE; Time: Noon to 9 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Sept. 2 and Sunday, Sept. 3; Admission: Free; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
El Pum Pum Latin Festival
Sunday night is gonna be lit at El Pum Pum Latin Music Festival! Immerse yourself in a cultural explosion with chart-topping artists, irresistible beats and shopping at The Pum Pum Market. Most folks are off Monday for Labor Day, so enjoy it!
Location: Southeast Atlanta at Lakewood Amphitheatre - 2002 Lakewood Way SW; Time: 2-11 p.m.; Date: Sunday, Sept. 3; Admission: $70+; Website: events.accessatlanta.com
Big Peach Sizzler
If you’re up for a Labor Day challenge, join the Big Peach Sizzler 10K and 5K runs by Miles for Cystic Fibrosis. Thousands will hit the pavement in Chamblee and Brookhaven, followed by a post-race bash at Buckhead Station featuring breakfast from Flying Biscuit Café, StillFire Brewing’s cold beer, and live music. Join the fun for a fantastic cause!
Location: Brookhaven at Peachtree Rd NE, Brookhaven, Georgia 30319; Time: 7-10 a.m.; Date: Monday, Sept. 4; Admission: $60; Website: events.accessatlanta.com