So you live in Atlanta and you’re bored this weekend? Honestly, you have no reason to be. Between concerts, gaming conventions, soccer celebrations, food events, and plenty of summer activities happening around the city, there is something for just about everyone. Whether you’re looking for live music, family-friendly fun, or just an excuse to get out of the house, here are a few events worth checking out this weekend. (Secret Atlanta)
July 16
Southern-Fried Gaming Expo
Gamers, pinball fans, and arcade lovers won’t want to miss the Southern-Fried Gaming Expo at the Cobb Galleria Centre. Running all weekend, the event features hundreds of arcade games, pinball machines, tabletop games, tournaments, and special guests. Whether you’re competitive or just feeling nostalgic, it’s a fun way to spend the day.
More information:
https://gameatl.com
American Football
The legendary emo band is making a stop at Variety Playhouse. If you’re into indie rock or looking for a laid-back Thursday night concert, this one’s worth checking out. (Ticketmaster US)
More information:
https://www.variety-playhouse.com
July 17
J. Cole – The Fall-Off Tour
One of the biggest concerts of the summer is coming to State Farm Arena. J. Cole brings his highly anticipated The Fall-Off Tour to Atlanta, and it’s expected to be one of the hottest tickets of the weekend. (Ticketmaster US)
More information:
https://www.statefarmarena.com/events
The Beach Boys
If classic rock is more your style, The Beach Boys will be performing at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Friday night. It’s the perfect excuse to sing along to some timeless summer hits. (Ticketmaster US)
More information:
https://www.cobbenergycentre.com
India Shawn
Atlanta native India Shawn brings her smooth R&B sound to Vinyl for an intimate Friday night show. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key than an arena concert, this is a great option. (Ticketmaster US)
More information:
https://www.centerstage-atlanta.com
July 18
Celebration of Soccer & Sound (FREE)
Head to Piedmont Park for a free festival celebrating the FIFA World Cup Final weekend. There will be live music, international food vendors, games, and activities leading up to Sunday’s championship match. Bring a blanket and spend the afternoon outside. (Axios)
More information:
https://discoveratlanta.com/events
UniverSoul Circus
Still one of Atlanta’s favorite summer traditions, UniverSoul Circus continues this weekend with incredible acrobatics, music, dance, and family-friendly entertainment under the big top. UniverSoul Circus
More information:
https://www.universoulcircus.com
July 19
World Cup Final Watch Party & Celebration of Soccer & Sound (FREE)
If you weren’t lucky enough to score tickets to the World Cup Final, Piedmont Park is hosting one of Atlanta’s biggest free watch parties. The event includes a giant viewing screen, international food vendors, live entertainment, and a performance by Ludacris after the match. This is expected to be one of the largest gatherings in the city all weekend. (Axios)
More information:
https://discoveratlanta.com/events
Jukebox Giants: Disco Fever!
If you’re not ready for the weekend to end, head to Atlanta Symphony Hall for an afternoon of disco classics performed live. It’s a fun way to wrap up the weekend with music everyone knows. (Atlanta Music Guide)
More information:
https://www.atlantasymphony.org
Also Happening This Weekend
Atlanta Magic Theater
Looking for something different? Catch an evening of close-up magic and comedy at Atlanta Magic Theater. It’s a unique date night or group outing and consistently earns great reviews.
More information:
https://www.atlantamagictheater.com
World Cup Watch Parties Around Atlanta
Restaurants, breweries, and public spaces all over the city are hosting watch parties throughout the weekend as Atlanta celebrates the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup. If you love the excitement of watching with a crowd, there are plenty of places to join the fun. (Axios)
More information:
https://discoveratlanta.com/events
If your ideal weekend includes live music, J. Cole is the can’t-miss show. If you’re looking for something free, the Celebration of Soccer & Sound in Piedmont Park is shaping up to be one of Atlanta’s biggest events of the summer. And if you’re feeling nostalgic, the Southern-Fried Gaming Expo is a fun way to spend an afternoon reliving the arcade days.
