If your weekend plans are still up in the air, consider this your sign to get out of the house. From concerts and festivals to late-night puppets (yes, really) and outdoor events, Atlanta has plenty happening this weekend. Whether you’re planning a date night, meeting up with friends, or just looking for something fun to do, here are a few events worth checking out.
August 6
Tesla vs. Edison (18+)
The Center for Puppetry Arts is kicking off its newest Puppetry After Dark production, Tesla vs. Edison. This adults-only show brings the famous rivalry between the two inventors to life with large-scale puppets, comedy, and some seriously impressive special effects. Even if you think puppets aren’t your thing, this one might change your mind. (Center for Puppetry Arts)
More information:
https://puppet.org/programs/tesla-vs-edison/
Cocktails in the Garden
The Atlanta Botanical Garden’s popular after-hours event returns Thursday night with live music, drinks, and the chance to wander the gardens after dark. It’s one of the best ways to spend a summer evening in Midtown.
More information:
https://atlantabg.org/calendar/category/atlanta/
The Fray – Summer of Light Tour
The Fray is making a stop in Atlanta with Dashboard Confessional for a nostalgic night of early-2000s hits. If you’ve ever screamed the words to “How to Save a Life,” this one’s for you. (Discover Atlanta)
More information:
https://www.ticketmaster.com
August 7
Glow Nights at Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium stays open late for Glow Nights, featuring colorful lighting, specialty drinks, music, and one of the coolest nighttime experiences in the city. It’s a fun date night or a great excuse to visit one of Atlanta’s most popular attractions after hours.
More information:
https://www.georgiaaquarium.org/events/
Atlanta Underground Film Festival
Independent films, documentaries, experimental projects, and filmmaker Q&As take over 7 Stages Theatre in Little Five Points throughout the weekend. It’s a great option if you’re looking to discover something a little different.
More information:
https://auff.org
August 8
Piedmont Park Arts Festival (FREE)
Spend the day browsing artwork from local and regional artists, grabbing food from vendors, and listening to live music in one of Atlanta’s favorite parks. This is one of those events where you say you’re “just looking” and somehow leave carrying a handmade candle and a new painting.
More information:
https://www.piedmontparkartsfestival.com
Water Lantern Festival
Thousands of glowing lanterns, food trucks, live music, and one very Instagram-worthy evening. Whether you’re going with friends or making it a date night, this is easily one of the prettiest events happening around Atlanta this weekend.
More information:
https://www.waterlanternfestival.com
Studio Ghibli Film Fest
If you’re an anime fan, Aurora Cineplex is continuing its Studio Ghibli Film Fest with special screenings of beloved classics. It’s a fun way to escape the heat for a few hours. (Access Atlanta)
More information:
https://www.fathomevents.com
August 9
UPS Second Sunday at the High Museum (FREE)
The High Museum offers free admission on the second Sunday of every month, making it the perfect excuse to spend an afternoon exploring incredible art without spending a dime.
More information:
https://high.org
Tesla vs. Edison (Final Weekend Performances)
If you missed it earlier in the weekend, Sunday is another chance to catch Tesla vs. Edison before heading back to work or school. It is definitely one of the most unique shows happening in Atlanta this month. (Center for Puppetry Arts)
More information:
https://puppet.org/programs/tesla-vs-edison/
Also Happening This Weekend
Atlanta Magic Theater
Looking for something different? Atlanta Magic Theater combines comedy, sleight of hand, and audience participation into a fun evening that’s perfect for date night or a night out with friends.
More information:
https://www.atlantamagictheater.com
Frame by Frame: The Art of Stop-Motion Animation
The Center for Puppetry Arts is also showcasing its new special exhibition celebrating the art of stop-motion animation. It’s included with museum admission and features behind-the-scenes looks at some iconic animated films. (Center for Puppetry Arts)
More information:
https://puppet.org/visit/see-full-calendar/
If you’re looking for something unique this weekend, I’d definitely recommend Tesla vs. Edison. If you’d rather be outside, the Piedmont Park Arts Festival is hard to beat. And if you’re planning a fun night out, Glow Nights at Georgia Aquarium is always a solid choice.
