Everything you need to know about attending Shaky Knees

An incredible lineup, the best bites in town and access to luxury perks like VIP seating — what’s not to love about Shaky Knees?

This homegrown rock ’n’ roll festival, now in its ninth year, takes place in the heart of Atlanta at Central Park. Whether you are thinking about going for the first time or you’re a lifer with the SK tattoo, here’s everything you need to know about attending Shaky Knees in 2022:

Before you go

A few helpful tips: check the weather and plan your outfit accordingly, understand what you can and cannot bring into the festival, chart your perfect schedule and figure out how you’re going to get there.

For starters, don’t plan on driving. There is no official parking. The festival encourages attendees to use public transportation. The Civic Center station, which is about half a mile to the West entrance, and the North Avenue station, which is about half a mile to the North entrance, are the two train stations closest to the festival.

If you’re taking rideshare, 395 Piedmont Avenue NE, Atlanta is a good address to use. Do not go to 400 Merritts Avenue or type in Central Park Atlanta on any map, as it will take you to the wrong spot and you’ll be turned away. To request a ride, exit the festival grounds and follow the signs to the Uber Zone, which is located off Piedmont Avenue NE between Ralph McGill Boulevard NE and Pine Street, just outside the festival’s West Entrance.

Gates are welcome on the festival grounds from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday. Attendees can leave and re-enter the festival until 7 p.m. but must scan their wristband each time they leave and must pass through security each time they re-enter.

While you’re there

Once you’ve arrived, get acquainted with Shaky’s map. You’ll need to know where each stage is, where the restrooms are and where you can get a bite to eat. Pro-tip: Rent a locker so you don’t have to lug your jacket and other belongings from stage to stage.

While the headliners are the stars of the show, there are plenty of other talented artists to see before the main act, including performances from Songs For Kids — Atlanta’s music mentorship program for kids and young adults with illnesses, injuries and disabilities — each morning at 11:45 a.m.

If you have some downtime between bands, explore the rest of the festival. Shaky Knees has something for everyone, including tasty bites, merch tables, lounges like the Mike’s Hard Lemonade Backyard Bar, premium experiences and interactive displays.

After you leave

Once the headliner unplugs and the lights come on, it’s time to go. But where? If you have an early morning or a long commute, you should probably go home. However, if you want to continue your festival celebrations into the wee hours of the morning, you have a few options.

The Shaky Knees’ Late Night Shows are a unique opportunity to catch Shaky artists you missed due to a scheduling conflict, or to see your favorite artist a second time in a more intimate setting. These shows, which take place in smaller venues around Atlanta, require a separate ticket and are not included in your Shaky Knees pass.

If you’re looking to hang out but are searching for something more low-key, there are tons of restaurants and bars open late nearby. The Local, Cookout, the Highlander, Waffle House, the Albert and the iconic Majestic Diner are just a few to consider.