Our Favorite Under-the-Radar Atlanta Summer Festivals
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
This city is filled with so many amazing festivals and events year-round. Atlanta’s summer festivals feel like a well-deserved reward for surviving a pollen-filled spring and a sweltering summer. As Atlanta natives, we love events that are off the beaten path – festivals where you can experience something completely unique, make new friends, educate yourself, and of course, eat delicious foods. Here are some of our favorite summer festivals in June, July, and August.
Theatre | Atlanta Fringe Festival | June | Little 5 Points & Inman Park
If you’re into adventurous, offbeat entertainment, the Atlanta Fringe Festival is for you! Each year in early-mid June, dozens of artists come together for an incredible week of live theatre at venues in Little 5 Points and Inman Park. The types of performances vary wildly, with mediums including dance, puppetry, sketch/improv, and more. Some pieces are hilarious, some are thought-provoking, some are raunchy, and all are worth seeing!
Food | Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival | July | Westside Provisions District
A brainchild of Chef Ford Fry, this July Atlanta festival benefits the nonprofit organization Georgia Organics, allowing you to feel all warm and fuzzy about your altruistic tomato binge. You’ll leave the festival with a belly full of tomato-based treats made by dozens of standout chefs and mixologists (doesn’t an event always sound so fancy when it has “mixologists”?). If anyone in your life is a ‘mater hater, this festival is a great way to convert them. You can also expect local craft beer on tap, outdoor games, and live music. Emma swears that this is the best festival in Atlanta, hands down!
Libations | Atlanta Summer Wine Festival | August | City Winery
With more than 50 wines, beers, and ciders to try, the Atlanta Summer Wine Festival at City Winery is a fun way to hone your palette and enjoy a few summer sips. Live music and a DJ will keep everyone entertained. As much as we love outdoor festivals, there’s something to be said for sipping a glass of rosé in the sweet, cold air conditioning of City Winery.
Fun | Atlanta Comic Convention | August | Marriott Hotel-Century Center
Browse comics, connect with other fans and collectors, and meet local artists and creators at Artist’s Alley! The Atlanta Comic Convention prides itself on being the “fan-friendliest show in the South.” In addition to comic books, you can also check out vendor booths selling action figures and collectible figurines, toys, pop-culture themed glassware and home goods, books, and rare treasures!