5 can’t-miss events this fall in Athens, GA
The leaves are changing, the weather is cooling down, and there’s a chill in the air — it’s the perfect time to visit Athens, Georgia.
CHECK OUT: Your neighborhood guide to fall festivals in metro Atlanta
And what better way to discover it than with live music, haunted tours and other free events? Check out some of the best things to do in the Classic City this fall season:
The North Georgia Folk Festival
Mark your calendars for the 37th Annual North Georgia Folk Festival on Saturday, Sept. 24 at Sandy Creek Park.
In addition to the live music, there will also be artists, traditional craft demonstrators, food vendors and plenty of activities for the kids. This year’s headliner is Cicada Rhythm!
Location: Athens - 400 Bob Holman Rd, Athens, GA 30607; Time: 11 a.m. to dark; Date: Saturday, Sept. 24; Admission: $8-$15; Website: visitathensga.com
Porchfest
If you’re looking for a fun way to end the weekend, check out the Historic Athens Porchfest on Sunday, Oct. 2.
This free-to-attend event features 155 performances on 150 porches in six historic neighborhoods — all over a day. There’s no better way to experience the creative energy of the Athens music scene and authentic Athens neighborhoods.
Location: Athens - Various locations; Time: 1-8 p.m.; Date: Sunday, Oct. 2; Admission: Free; Website: visitathensga.com
Athens Haunted History Walking Tour
If you want to learn about the history of Athens and its haunted past, book a tour with historian Jeff Clarke! You’ll walk along the streets of this college town while learning about ghosts from Colonial Georgia, the Civil War, Prohibition and more. This tour is family-friendly and sure to be a great time.
Location: Athens; Date: Recurring daily; Tours by appointment; Admission: $18; Website: visitathensga.com
Wild Rumpus Parade and Spectacle
Get ready for Athens’ own Mardi Gras — the Wild Rumpus Parade & Spectacle.
The streets of downtown Athens are transformed into a dazzling display of hand-crafted, wildly imaginative costuming that you won’t find anywhere else in the Southeast. It’s an incredible sight to see and it’s FREE to attend!
So what are you waiting for? Get your costume on and get ready to march through the streets of The Classic City. You won’t be disappointed.
Location: Athens - Downtown Athens; Time: 8 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Oct. 29; Admission: Free; Website: visitathensga.com
AthHalf
If you’re looking for an opportunity to see all of Athens in one day, look no further than AthHalf.
This event combines the best of Athens’ historic districts, downtown and UGA campus into one race course. You’ll get the chance to run or walk through the city while passing live music performances along the way. If you’re not up for the half marathon but still want to participate in this fantastic event, they also offer a 5K race a day before!
Location: Athens - Downtown Athens; Date: 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22, and 7:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 23; Admission: $30+; Website: visitathensga.com
About the Author
Avery Newmark covers travel, wellness, events and trending news for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With a dual background in film production and journalism, Avery came to the AJC after working as a video editor. She enjoys film photography and live music in her free time. Reach her at avery.newmark@ajc.com.
