10 things to do in Atlanta this weekend

Happy New Year, Atlanta! No matter what kind of experience you’re craving in 2025, you can always count on the city to deliver! Whether you’re a local looking to explore something new or a visitor eager to dive into all that ATL has to offer, this list of 10 must-do events will keep you having endless fun and make your time in the city unforgettable.

Comedy Clubhouse

Watch your favorite comedians face the ultimate challenge as they deliver the most fun (and borderline stressful) sets of their lives at Laughing Skull Lounge! Every comic gets just 5 minutes to conquer 4 comedy obstacles. The twist? The hosts stay on stage the entire time, throwing in their own jokes and keeping the pressure—and laughs—at an all-time high.

Location: Midtown Atlanta - 878 Peachtree St NE; Date: January 2; Admission: $20; Time: Show starts at 8 p.m.; Website: laughingskulllounge.com

Winter Lantern Festival

This larger-than-life event transforms Gwinnett County Fairgrounds with hundreds of breathtaking, hand-crafted lanterns that shimmer and glow in vibrant colors. Perfect for families, date nights, or anyone craving a little enchantment, this festival is more than just a spectacle—it’s an immersive journey into a world of wonder.

Location: Lawrenceville - 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy; Date: January 2-5; Admission: $16.99 and up; Time: 5-9:30 p.m.; Website: winterlanternfestival.com

Momocon Cosplayers on Ice

Calling all cosplayers and anime fans! Glide into a world of fandom as cosplayers take over the ice rink in their most epic costumes—because who says superheroes, villains, and anime icons can’t skate? Hot cocoa, good vibes, and jaw-dropping costumes await at Atlantic Station!

Location: Atlantic Station - 1380 Atlantic Dr NW; Date: January 4; Admission: $17; Time: 3-6 p.m.; Website: atlanticstation.com

Family Saturday at the High

Gather the crew and make memories that pop at Family Saturday at the High! Dive into a day packed with creativity, connection, and fun for all ages. Explore the museum’s incredible exhibits, get hands-on with interactive art activities, and enjoy live performances that will have the whole family smiling.

Location: Midtown Atlanta - 1280 Peachtree St NE; Date: January 4; Admission: Free; Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m; Website: midtownatl.com

Sonic Symphony

Sonic Symphony is the ultimate live music experience celebrating over 30 years of Sonic the Hedgehog’s iconic soundtracks! Feel the thrill as a full symphony orchestra brings your favorite Sonic moments to life, creating an electrifying tribute to the music that has shaped generations of gamers.

Location: Cobb County - 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy; Date: January 4; Admission: $90 and up; Time: 8-10 p.m.; Website: mgplive.com

Freakin’ Freezin’ 5K

This icy race takes place in the heart of winter, and it’s more than just a run – it’s a celebration of the bold, the brave, and the winter warriors who are ready to race through the cold for a good cause! Expect an epic mix of high-energy vibes, stunning winter scenery, and tons of surprises along the route.

Location: Atlanta Beltline - 306 Colonial Homes Dr NW; Date: January 4; Admission: $35 and up; Time: Race starts at 9 a.m.; Website: fivestarntp.com

Lip Gloss Making Class

Create your own signature gloss from scratch, blending colors, shimmer, and scents to design the perfect pout-worthy product at. Whether you’re a beauty lover, DIY queen, or just looking for a fun and creative outing with friends, this hands-on class is a total vibe! Walk away with your own custom lip gloss and all the confidence to slay.

Location: Northeast Atlanta - 659 Auburn Ave NE STE 128; Date: January 5; Admission: $55; Time: 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. time slots; Website: classpop.com

Sober Sunday Social

Kick off the New Year with Sober Sunday Social ag Joe’s Coffeehouse EAV—a vibrant, judgment-free monthly meet-up for LGBTQ sober folks! Get ready for a night of community, connection, and pure vibes with DJ sets, a full coffee bar and treats, little sober bar pop-up with non-alcoholic drinks, tooth jewelry, board games, activities, and so much more!

Location: Southeast Atlanta - 510 Flat Shoals Ave SE; Date: January 5; Admission: Suggested donations; Time: 7-10 p.m.; Website: eventbrite.com

Georgia Bridal Show

Georgia Bridal Show is your one-stop destination to make wedding planning fun, fabulous, and stress-free! Discover the hottest trends, meet top vendors, and sample everything from dreamy cakes to dazzling décor. Get inspired with stunning fashion shows featuring jaw-dropping gowns and suits, and snag exclusive deals to make your big day unforgettable.

Location: Cobb County - 2 Galleria Pkwy SE; Date: January 5; Admission: $10 and up; Time: Noon to 4 p.m.; Website: georgiabridalshow.com

Art and Salsa Dance Class

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of bachata and salsa with the sensational Fuego y Hielo Dance Company! Learn the basics and polish your technique in a fun, high-energy class at Buckhead Art & Company. After the class, show off your moves at the lively dance social, where you can mingle with fellow dance and art enthusiasts.

Location: Buckhead - 288 Buckhead Ave NE; Date: January 5; Admission: $20; Time: Class at 5-6 p.m.; Dance social at 6-8 p.m.; Website: eventbrite.com