Things to do in Atlanta Friday, May 4 (and this weekend)

Updated: Things to do this weekend in Atlanta

It’s Friday, at last, and it finally feels like May in Atlanta. So let’s get out and have some fun this weekend.

There are so many things to do over the next few days, but here are a few highlights, and some links to more options.

SHAKY KNEES

Beginning this afternoon, May 4, the Shaky Knees Music Festival will bring three days, four stages and more than 60 artists to Central Park in downtown Atlanta. Jack White headlines tonight, with appearanaces by Courtney Barnett, David Byrne, Fleet Foxes and Franz Ferdinand. And that's just today. Queens of the Stone Age headlines Saturday and the National tops the bill on Sunday. Check out our complete guide to navigating the festival.

JOHNS CREEK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Johns Creek Summer Concert Series kicks off with a Kenny Chesney tribute act called the Pirate Flag Band. It looks like we might have a beautiful evening to sit outside and soak up the tunes. Get all the weather details courtesy of Channel 2 Action News. You'll also be able to grab a bite from from Patty Wagon and score a chilly treat from King of Pops. The free concert happens at 7 p.m. Friday, May 4, at Mark Burkhalter Park Amphitheater at 3150 Old Alabama Road in Johns Creek. Get more details at johnscreekga.gov.

DR. SEUSS CAT IN THE HAT

The beloved children's classic comes to life on stage at the Center for Puppetry Arts. The show is in it's final weeks, continuing through May 20, so catch it before it's gone. Tickets for the show are $25 and include the live performance, a Create-A-Puppet Workshop™ or to-go kit and admission to the Worlds of Puppetry Museum. Tickets and times are at puppet.org.

Don't forget that Saturday is Cinco de Mayo, and we have a few suggestions on ways to celebrate here. 

Saturday is also the day of the Kentucky Derby, but you don't have to be at Churchill Downs to join in the fun. Here are some local spots to gather for Derby Day.

ALSO: "Imaginary Worlds" opens at the Atlanta Botanical Garden on Saturday, May 5

ONSTAGE: There are two more performances of the Atlanta Opera's "Carmen" this weekend. Read of review of the production.

Looking for more? Listen to our weekly accessAtlanta podcast, which offers more ideas for things to do in and around Atlanta.

Browse the AJC calendar: FestivalsConcertsMost Popular Events