It’s that “sweet spot” time of year – not too hot, the bugs aren’t in season, and school’s almost out for summer. There are so many fun things to do in Atlanta right now – so grab your kids, head outside, and enjoy a few of these family-friendly events in May – some are perfect for Mother’s Day!
May Family-Friendly Events In and Around Atlanta
May 6-7: Smoke on the Lake BBQ Festival – For residents of Acworth, Kennesaw, and Marietta. Dig into some great barbeque and vote for your favorites! There’s also a Kid Zone and an evening concert with Creedence Clearwater Revival songs. Proceeds go to local charities.
May 6-8: Decatur Arts Festival – Start off with a Kids’ Fest that includes inflatables, a flamenco demonstration, and even an open mic for the little ones! Also enjoy a city-wide ArtWalk, featuring exhibits at local businesses, a scavenger hunt, a variety of entertainment, and free classes, including interactive improv and yoga, live chalk art, and food for every palate.
May 7: Alpharetta Chamber Orchestra Sensory Friendly Concert – This one is indoors but worth a mention. The orchestra will present “Peter and the Wolf,” and children will be invited to learn about musical instruments, participate in music, dance, and theater workshops, and even make their own puppets! You can email the organizers to ensure special accommodations for your child as needed.
May 7-8: Dunwoody Art Festival – Food trucks, an artists’ market, and a kid’s center with games, face painting, a parrot experience, and more! Treat yourself to a new decoration for your home, or some well-deserved bling!
May 7-8: Roswell Spring Arts and Crafts Festival – Artists of all mediums have collaborated to create a festival to display their work, give demonstrations, and spread the word about the robust art opportunities in the area. There will also be live acoustic music and gourmet food trucks. Pets welcome!
May 7-8: Sweet Auburn Springfest – Dubbed the “Largest Family Reunion in the World”, you’ll enjoy the music of many distinct genres, an international food court, a merchandise market, and a Kids’ Zone, all to support this historic district.
May 12: Taste of Alpharetta – It’s the largest “Taste Of” event in the Southeast! Sample cuisine from over 60 restaurants, settle in for some live music on several stages, stop by the beer garden, and definitely check out the Kids’ Fun Zone!
May 13-15: Marietta Greek Festival – Northwest Georgia’s largest cultural event offers authentic food, music, and dancing from different regions of Greece, as well as tours of the Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church. There are activities for kids as well, and the event is rain or shine. Proceeds support charitable outreach in the community.
May 14-15: Chastain Park Arts Festival – Bring your checkbook to explore almost 200 artists, live music, local food offerings, and a dedicated children’s area with hands-on art activities, all within the beautiful setting of Chastain Park.
May 19: Alive in Roswell – A monthly street festival in and around the very quaint Canton Street, boasting food trucks, music, interactive vendors, and fun and games for kids in the Historic Town Square. Free parking and trolley service.
May 21: Atlanta BeltLine Lantern Parade – Come for a magical night of lights! Bring your homemade lanterns and join your neighbors in this 1-mile parade of giant puppets, marching bands, and more, through a special part of Atlanta. The organizers even offer lantern-making workshops if you need inspiration.
May 28-30: Gwinnett County Hot Air Balloon Festival – So many fun things for kids to do during this event – rides on trains, rock walls, magic shows, and more. There will also be music, vendor booths, food, and, of course, hot air balloon rides. It ends with a Hot Air Balloon Glow & Laser show. Blankets, chairs, and umbrellas are recommended.
Now through May 30: Georgia Renaissance Festival – Go back to 16th century England and experience jousting, acrobatics, comedy, medieval music, birds of prey, storytelling, an artisan market, tests of strength, camel rides, juggling school, macaroni, and cheese on a stick – what are you waiting for?!
Now through June 5: UniverSoul Circus – The old Turner Field is the temporary home of this visual masterpiece! Be amazed at the acrobatics, contortionists, motorcycle stunts, dancing, and more! Come support this special organization that provides free shows to families with children who are experiencing homelessness and food donations to the Hosea Helps Food Bank.
