As the days shine brighter and temperatures start to rise, that can only mean one thing — summer is almost here — and it’s time to start thinking of the best ways to enjoy the season. Grab your friends, family or special someone, and head outside the metro to enjoy these ten summer fairs and festivals.
Taste of Spring
10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 6, Randal S. Mills City Center Park (Olde Town Pavillion) Conyers
Do you have a young entrepreneur in your house between the ages of 5 and 18? If so, you might want to take them to the Taste of Spring Festival in Conyers. They have a children’s business fair where you or your little one can set up shop. You will also enjoy classic cars, great music, food and crafts.
Georgia Apple Blossom Festival
9 a.m.-5 p.m May 6, 9 a.m-4 p.m May 7, 696 1st Avenue, East Ellijay
The Apple Blossom Festival in East Ellijay is free and has a ton of activities for the entire weekend. Check out more than 60 local vendors, as well as food, entertainment and a ton of activities for kids. From face painting to grandkid-friendly entertainment, bouncy houses and more, the Georgia Apple Blossom Festival is fun for the entire family.
Hiawassee Highlands Wine Festival
11 a.m.-5 p.m. May 13, 1331 Music Hall Road, Hiawassee
Held at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds, the Hiawassee Highlands Wine Festival is perfect for all the wine lovers out there and those who love music, arts and crafts, food trucks and more. With more than 30 wineries to check out and free parking, you’ll get to enjoy your favorite wines while picking up some new ones. Tickets are $60 in advance and $65 at the gate.
Renaissance Festival
10:30 a.m.-6 p.m, Continuing through June 4, 6732 Virlyn B. Smith Road, Fairburn
Travel back in time at this years’ Georgia Renaissance Festival in Fairburn. Enjoy entertainment at every turn, dress up in Renaissance-era costumes, eat great food and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Check out their website for themed weekends as well as lodging options.
July Fourth Celebration
10 a.m.-10 p.m., July 4, 235 Castleberry Road, Cumming
Don’t miss this year’s Fourth of July celebration in Cumming. This will be the Thomas Mashburn Steam Engine’s 66th year bringing you an amazing parade followed by family fun and a jaw-dropping fireworks show at 9:30 p.m. If you have an elastic stomach, take your chances and sign up for the hot dog and pizza eating contests.
Star-Spangled Snellville
4 p.m.-10 p.m. July 4, Snellville Town Green, 2342 Oak Road SW, Snellville
Family fun is all around at Star-Spangled Snellville, with large playgrounds, the KAHUNA water slide, food from your favorite places around town and a 9-hole mini-golf course.
Madison Firefly Festival
6 p.m.-8 p.m. July 28, 7 p.m.-9:30 p.m. July 29, Madison
The Firefly Festival is a two-night event dedicated to kids on one night and adults on the other. On Friday — Kids Night — the entire family will enjoy crafts, face painting, bouncy houses, music and more.
On Saturday, grab your friends, family or that special someone and enjoy date night with The Sensational Sounds of Motown party band. You’re allowed to bring coolers for the Saturday event, along with your blanket and lawn chairs.
Credit: Madison Firefly Festival Website
Credit: Madison Firefly Festival Website
Chattooga County Agricultural Fair
5 p.m.-10 p.m. Aug. 24-25, 2 p.m.-11 p.m. Aug. 26, 2 p.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 27, 40 Middle School Road, Summerville
With live entertainment, animal shows and beauty pageants, the Chattooga County Agricultural Fair offers fun for the entire family. This year, Peachtree Rides will be back in action for all to enjoy, so grab your friends or family and get ready for a night of non-stop entertainment.
