Summers in Atlanta are never boring. As the weather heats up and the days become longer, Black cultural festivals are popping up all over the city. Whether you’re a fan of music, film, theater or food, there will be plenty of opportunities for culture and community.
As you plan your summer activities, consider our round-up of festivals. Our list includes a variety of options that will keep you busy throughout the season.
Atlanta Funk Fest
The outdoor concert featuring legendary hip-hop, R&B and soul acts returns to Wolf Creek Amphitheater for its 25th anniversary. The two-day live show features performances by The Isley Brothers, Stokely, Donell Jones, Jon B., Erykah Badu, Big Boi, Goodie Mob and YoungBloodZ.
3 p.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, August 10 through Sunday, August 11. Wolf Creek Amphitheater, 3025 Merk Road SW, South Fulton. 470-945-5600. https://funkfesttour.com/atlanta/
A Taste of Black Gwinnett
The free event open to the public showcases Black-owned businesses, professional and community organizations in Gwinnett County. Guests can sample products and services from local eateries, caterers and food retailers.
6 p.m-9 p.m. Friday, August 16. Norcross Cultural Arts Center, 10 College Street, Norcross. 678-421-2025. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-taste-of-black-gwinnett-august-2024-national-black-business-month-tickets-795644382767
Pan African Festival
The fourth annual event celebrates people of African descent with arts, crafts, food vendors, musical performances and dance routines. Guests can participate in workshops, activities, and discussions themed around the diversity of the African continent.
2 p.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, August 17. Decatur Square, 509 North McDonough Street, Decatur. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-4th-annual-pan-african-festival-tickets-962262893217
National Black Business Conference
Coinciding with Atlanta Black Business Weekend and the 40th anniversary of the World Conference of Mayors, some of the nation’s esteemed Black business leaders, professionals, organizations and community figures are gathering to hold networking events, workshops, sessions and roundtable conversations concentrating on entrepreneurship, economic and community development for the 124th conference. Daniel “Chappy” James, Tuskegee Airman and the first Black four-star general in the Air Force, is serving as keynote speaker.
Wednesday, August 21 through Saturday, August 25. Hilton Atlanta, 255 Courtland Street NE, Atlanta. 404-659-2000. https://nationalblackbusinessconference.com/
BronzeLens Film Festival
2024 marks the 15th anniversary celebration for this non-profit organization dedicated to highlighting films produced by people of color here in Atlanta. In addition to screenings of more than 140 films at Tara Theatre, there will be lots of networking opportunities for filmmakers of the future, with panels and workshops for Black women directors, crowdfunding films and more. This year also marks the launch of BronzeLens’ Filmmaker Sneaker Ball, and you won’t want to miss AJC Films’ productions The Dancer: The Beautiful and Tragic Life of Geraud Alexander, and our Southern hip-hop documentary The South Got Something To Say.
Wednesday, August 21 through Sunday, August 25. Tara Theatre, 2345 Cheshire Bridge Road. NE, Atlanta. bronzelens.com
The Afrobeats Festival
Immerse yourself in the world of Afrobeats during this two-day event, which includes a lineup of more than 20 reggae and Latin artists. You can also experience the fashion, food and art of the culture by checking out the various installations.
Various times. Saturday, August 24-Sunday, August 25. Atlanta Motor Speedway, 1500 Tara Place Hampton. 503-705-890. theafrobeatsfestival.com.
Afro Fest Atlanta
The immersive, four-hour event pays homage to African and Haitian culture through infectious music, vibrant dance, savory food and various forms of visual art. The day celebrates the diversity of the African community in Atlanta.
7 p.m.-11 p.m. Saturday, August 24. Essence Venue, 5439 Riverdale Road, Atlanta. 30349. 678-685-5114. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/afro-fest-atlanta-tickets-905279975777
Atlanta Black Theatre Festival
At this two-day festival, actors, playwrights, producers and art lovers will gather over their appreciation for Black theater. With a wide range of live performances, panels and parties, the festival aims to amplify Black voices on the stage.
Various times. Friday, August 30-Saturday, August 31. Holiday Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport North 1380 Virginia Avenue, Atlanta. Southwest Art Center, 915 New Hope Road SW, Atlanta. support@atlantabtf.org. atlantabtf.org.
Atlanta Pride Weekend
One of the largest LGBTQ celebrations in the world is making its way back to Atlanta for Labor Day weekend. Daily activities will include independent film screenings, educational panels and forums, workshops, counseling sessions, day parties, karaoke and more.
Various times. Friday, August 30-Wednesday, September 4. Various locations. 140-448-3229. atlantaprideweekend.com.
Atlanta Hip Hop Day Festival
Celebrate Atlanta’s contributions to the hip-hop movement at this day-long event, which will feature live deejays, food and more. This year’s performers will include DJ Scream of the “Big Facts” podcast and DJ Swamp Izzo of Cash Money Records.
Various times. Saturday, August 31-Sunday, September 1. Fourth Ward Historic Park, 680 Dallas St. NE, Atlanta. 678-825-4859. eventbrite.com.
Dragon Con
The iconic five-day pop culture convention is returning to downtown for its 38th year. Show your love of science fiction, fantasy, gaming and comics with a parade, cosplay, arcade games, photo opportunities and much more.
Various times. Thursday, Aug 29–Monday, September 2. Various locations in Midtown Atlanta. 404-669-0773. dragoncon.org.
Atlanta Seafood and Caribbean Music Festival
Bring your coolers, lawn chairs and pitch your tents for this all-day, outdoor event that brings together live music and DJs with delectable seafood and Caribbean cuisine for the whole family to enjoy. Free crawfish is available for attendees from noon - 3 p.m.
Noon-10 p.m. Saturday, September 7. Morris Brown College, 643 Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive NW, Atlanta. 30314. 706-333-9513 or 229-376-4180. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/atlanta-seafood-caribbean-music-festival-tickets-856247588587
Black Men’s Wellness Day
Prioritize your wellness during this day-long, community event designed specifically for Black men. Sign up for the 5k race and take advantage of the free health screenings. You’ll also enjoy live entertainment throughout the day.
7 a.m.-noon. Saturday, September 14. Friendship Baptist Church, 80 Walnut St. SW, Atlanta. 470-334-3322. eventbrite.com.
