10 things to do in Atlanta this weekend

Attendees looking at artwork at the Piedmont Park Arts Festival
Ben Dashwood

Summer is not over yet! Enjoy the warm weather while you still can and have some fun in the A. Whether you’re looking to explore the city or simply enjoy a day of outdoor fun, this guide will take you through 10 must-try activities in Atlanta.

And take note! Manish Arora “Life is Beautiful” is on view at SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film.  Renowned for dazzling designs in a rainbow of colors, Manish Arora has brought the talent and craftsmanship of India’s rich sartorial history to the global forefront, earning international acclaim on runways across three continents. Designing in India since the 1990s, Arora’s glittering garments celebrate extravagant expressions of self through varied materials, techniques, and silhouettes in a triumphant union of Western and Eastern aesthetics adapted to today’s multicultural society with a touch of humor. Find out more at scadfash.org.

Manish Arora: Life is Beautiful

Known for his bold use of color, intricate patterns, and innovative designs, Manish Arora has made a significant impact on the global fashion scene. This exhibition showcases a stunning collection of his work, including iconic garments, accessories, and artworks that reflect his unique fusion of traditional Indian aesthetics with contemporary flair.

Location: Midtown - 1600 Peachtree St NE; Date: Now through September 10; Time: Times vary, see website; Admission: Free; Website: scadfash.org

Black Restaurant Week

Black Restaurant Week is an annual celebration dedicated to showcasing the culinary excellence and cultural diversity of Black-owned restaurants, chefs and caterers. The week-long event includes special menus, exclusive dishes, and discounted dining options at participating establishments, along with a variety of events.

Location: Greater Metro Atlanta area; Date: Now through August 18; Time: Times vary, see website; Admission: Free; Website: blackrestaurantweeks.com

Cirque du Soleil - Corteo

Known for its stunning visual effects and breathtaking performances, Cirque du Soleil transforms the traditional circus experience into an artistic spectacle. Taking place at Gas South Arena, this event is really cool for families and friends looking for an amazing experience.

Location: Duluth - 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy; Date: August 15-18; Time: Times vary, see website; Admission: Prices vary, see website; Website: gassouthdistrict.com

Pigs and Peaches BBQ Festival

Bring the family and have some fun at this lively annual event that celebrates Southern barbecue culture with a blend of mouthwatering flavors, music and friendly fun. Held at Adams Park, this festival attracts BBQ lovers from all over, offering a chance to savor some of the best smoked meats and peach-inspired dishes around.

Location: Kennesaw - 2600 Park Dr; Date: August 16-17; Time: 6-10 p.m. (Friday); 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Saturday); Admission: Free; Website: kennesaw-ga.gov

Atlanta Underground Film Festival

Calling all movie lovers! The Atlanta Underground Film Festival will be held at Limelight Theater this year and provides a platform for filmmakers to present their work and features a mix of genres, including experimental, horror, documentary and so much more.

Location: Downtown Atlanta - 349 Decatur St. SE Suite L; Date: August 16-18; Time: noon to midnight; Admission: $12-$50; Website: auff.org

Pop-In For Family Fun: Bugs and Flowers

Pop-In For Family Fun: Bugs & Flowers is a delightful event designed for families to explore the fascinating world of insects and flowers. Hosted at the Marietta History Center, this engaging event offers hands-on activities, crafts, and educational exhibits that highlight the beauty and importance of bugs and flowers in our ecosystem.

Location: Marietta - 1 Depot St; Date: August 17; Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Admission: Free; Website: mariettahistory.org

Yappy Hour

Calling all dog lovers! This event invites pet owners to unwind with refreshing dog-themed cocktails and tasty treats while their dogs enjoy a playful and safe space to socialize. This is also a great opportunity to meet other adoptable dogs and simply spend time with other animal lovers.

Location: Alpharetta - 35 Milton Ave; Date: August 17; Time: 9-11 a.m.; Admission: Free; Website: eventbrite.com

Popsicle 5K, 10K and Half Marathon

This exciting event is open to runners of all skill levels, making it perfect for families, seasoned athletes, and everyone in between. As a fun twist, participants are greeted with ice-cold popsicles at the finish line, providing a cool treat to celebrate their achievement.

Location: Northeast Atlanta - 550 Somerset Terrace; Date: August 17; Time: Races start at 7 a.m. and 8 a.m.; Admission: Prices vary, see website; Website: runsignup.com

Piedmont Park Arts Festival

Celebrating creativity and community, the Piedmont Park Arts Festival features a huge diverse selection of artwork, including paintings, photography, sculpture, jewelry, and more, crafted by talented artists from across the country. Visitors can stroll through the park’s paths, enjoying live music, artist demonstrations, and a variety of food vendors.

Location: Midtown Atlanta - 1322 Monroe Dr NE; Date: August 17-18; Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Saturday); 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Sunday); Admission: Free; Website: piedmontparkartsfestival.com

Truu Colors Music and Taste Fest

Bring a friend and stop by Truu Colors Music and Taste Fest at Underground Atlanta. This event will also have an amazing lineup featuring No Cap, Baby Drill, Sadababy, Layton Greene, Nick Lavelle, Josiah “JP” Gillie, and so many more! Guests can also indulge in delicious food from some of Atlanta’s best food trucks.

Location: Downtown Atlanta - 50 Upper Alabama St; Date: August 18; Time: 2-11 p.m.; Admission: $37.50 and up; Website: eventbrite.com

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Hey Atlanta! Whether you’re a foodie, an art enthusiast, a music …