Georgia Festivals That Draw Crowds For All The Right Reasons

Georgia knows how to throw a party.

From spring blooms to autumn harvests, the state hosts festivals that bring together food, music, art, and community in ways that feel genuinely special.

Whether you’re craving barbecue competitions, cultural celebrations, or small-town charm, these events offer something memorable for everyone.

1. Georgia Apple Festival

October brings apple season to the North Georgia mountains, and Ellijay celebrates with a festival that’s been going strong since 1971. This two-weekend event transforms downtown Ellijay into an apple lover’s paradise with over 300 vendors lining the streets. The festival takes place throughout downtown Ellijay, centered around the square at 1 River Street, Ellijay, Georgia 30540.

You can sample apple pies, apple butter, apple cider, fried apple pies, and candied apples from dozens of food vendors. Local orchards sell fresh-picked apples by the bushel. Craft vendors offer everything from quilts to wooden toys.

Live bluegrass and country music plays on multiple stages throughout both weekends. The parade on the second Saturday draws huge crowds. I suggest booking accommodations early since hotels fill up months in advance.

The mountain scenery during peak fall color makes the trip even more worthwhile.

2. International Cherry Blossom Festival

Macon’s springtime celebration honors the city’s 350,000 Yoshino cherry trees with a festival that lasts nearly three weeks. The International Cherry Blossom Festival began in 1982 and has grown into one of Georgia’s premier cultural events. Festival activities take place throughout downtown Macon, with the main hub at 794 Cherry Street, Macon, Georgia 31201.

When the cherry trees bloom in late March, the entire city turns pink and white. You can enjoy concerts, art shows, food vendors, a massive street party, and a parade that draws over 100,000 spectators. The Yoshino Grand Tasting showcases food and drinks from local restaurants.

Special events include a hot air balloon festival, a bed race through downtown, and nightly entertainment at various venues. Most festival activities are free, though some concerts and special events require tickets. The peak bloom period varies slightly each year depending on weather, so check the festival website before planning your visit.

3. Georgia National Fair

For 11 days each October, Perry becomes the fairground capital of Georgia. The Georgia National Fair brings together agriculture, entertainment, and good old-fashioned fun at one of the state’s largest annual events. You’ll find all the action at 401 Larry Walker Parkway, Perry, Georgia 31069.

Livestock competitions showcase prize-winning cattle, pigs, horses, and poultry from farms across the state. Agricultural exhibits highlight Georgia’s farming heritage. The midway features dozens of rides, from gentle carousels to stomach-dropping thrill rides.

Live concerts feature country, rock, and gospel artists performing nightly. Food vendors serve everything from corn dogs to deep-fried Oreos. I particularly enjoy the antique tractor displays and the butter sculpture exhibit.

Admission prices vary by day, with discount tickets available online. Parking is plentiful but requires some walking. The fair runs rain or shine, so dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes since you’ll cover a lot of ground.

4. Taste of Alpharetta

Food takes center stage at this annual celebration of Alpharetta’s restaurant scene. Taste of Alpharetta brings together dozens of local restaurants, food trucks, and beverage vendors for a weekend of culinary exploration. The festival happens in downtown Alpharetta at City Hall, located at 2 South Main Street, Alpharetta, Georgia 30009.

You purchase tasting tickets and exchange them for sample-sized portions from participating restaurants. This lets you try multiple cuisines without committing to full meals. Craft beer and wine vendors offer tastings alongside the food.

Live music and cooking demonstrations provide entertainment between tastings. Local chefs showcase their skills and share recipes with festival-goers. Kids enjoy activities in a designated family zone.

The festival typically takes place in May, though dates can vary. I recommend coming hungry and pacing yourself since there’s a lot to sample. Proceeds benefit local charities, so your ticket purchase supports good causes while you enjoy great food.

5. Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Festival

One of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in America transforms Savannah into a sea of green every March. This isn’t just a one-day event but a multi-day festival featuring concerts, pub crawls, and the famous parade. Festival activities spread throughout downtown Savannah, with the parade route running along Bay Street and Abercorn Street, starting near City Hall at 2 East Bay Street, Savannah, Georgia 31401.

The parade attracts over 400,000 spectators who line the streets to watch marching bands, bagpipers, military units, and elaborate floats. The city dyes the fountain water green in several squares. Irish music fills the air in restaurants and pubs throughout the historic district.

River Street becomes party central with outdoor stages, beer gardens, and food vendors. Family-friendly activities happen in the squares and parks away from the bar scene. I recommend arriving early to claim a good parade viewing spot and staying hydrated throughout the day since March weather can be warm.

6. Decatur Wine Festival

Wine lovers circle their calendars for this sophisticated yet approachable celebration of vino. The Decatur Wine Festival brings together wineries from around the world for a weekend of tastings, food pairings, and education. The festival takes place in downtown Decatur at the Decatur Square, located at 509 North McDonough Street, Decatur, Georgia 30030.

You’ll sample wines from dozens of vineyards while learning about different varieties and regions from knowledgeable pourers. Food vendors offer small plates designed to complement the wines. Live jazz and acoustic music creates a relaxed atmosphere.

Educational seminars teach wine basics for beginners and advanced topics for enthusiasts. A silent auction features wine-related prizes and experiences. The festival benefits local charities, adding purpose to your wine enjoyment.

Tickets sell out quickly, so purchase yours early. The festival typically happens in early June. I suggest designating a driver or using rideshare services since you’ll be sampling throughout the day.

Dress comfortably but nicely since this event has a more upscale vibe than typical street festivals.

7. Atlanta Flamenco Festival

Passion, rhythm, and Spanish culture come alive at this unique celebration of flamenco art. The Atlanta Flamenco Festival showcases world-class dancers, musicians, and singers performing this dramatic art form. Performances take place at various venues, with the main location at Emory University’s Schwartz Center for Performing Arts, 1700 North Decatur Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30322.

Professional flamenco companies from Spain and the United States perform evening shows featuring intricate footwork, swirling skirts, and emotional guitar music. Workshops during the day let you learn basic flamenco techniques from expert instructors. You don’t need dance experience to participate in beginner sessions.

The festival typically spans a long weekend in February or March. Film screenings, lectures, and art exhibits explore flamenco’s history and cultural significance. Food vendors serve Spanish tapas and other Mediterranean dishes.

Ticket prices vary by event, with workshop packages available. Evening performances often sell out, so book early. Even if you’ve never experienced flamenco before, the energy and skill on display make this festival unforgettable.

8. Arts in the Heart of Augusta

Creativity explodes across downtown Augusta during this three-day celebration of visual and performing arts. Arts in the Heart of Augusta has been showcasing artistic talent since 1982, growing into one of the Southeast’s premier arts festivals. The festival spreads throughout downtown Augusta, centered around the Riverwalk at 10th Street, Augusta, Georgia 30901.

More than 200 artists display paintings, sculptures, photography, jewelry, and other works for viewing and purchase. Juried competitions recognize excellence across multiple categories. Live performances include dance troupes, theater groups, and musicians representing genres from classical to contemporary.

Hands-on activities let visitors create their own art projects. Food vendors serve diverse cuisines alongside local restaurant booths. The festival typically happens in mid-September when weather permits comfortable outdoor browsing.

Admission and entertainment are free, making this accessible to everyone. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes since you’ll walk several blocks exploring different artist areas. Parking fills quickly, so consider using shuttle services or arriving early.

The riverside setting adds natural beauty to the artistic displays.

9. Lilburn Days Festival

Community spirit shines at this annual celebration that brings Lilburn residents and visitors together. Lilburn Days Festival has been a spring tradition since the 1980s, offering family-friendly entertainment and activities. The festival takes place at Lilburn City Park, located at 76 Main Street NW, Lilburn, Georgia 30047.

Arts and crafts vendors fill the park with handmade goods ranging from jewelry to woodwork. Food trucks and local restaurants serve diverse cuisines. A carnival area features rides and games that kids love.

Live music performances span multiple genres throughout the weekend. A car show displays classic and custom vehicles. The festival parade on Saturday morning winds through downtown Lilburn with floats, bands, and community organizations participating.

Admission and parking are free, making this an affordable family outing. The festival usually happens in April when spring weather is ideal. I suggest bringing blankets for sitting on the grass during concerts.

Local businesses often offer special promotions during festival weekend, so explore downtown shops and restaurants while you’re there. The small-town atmosphere makes everyone feel welcome.

10. Mountain Laurel Festival

Spring blooms take center stage at this celebration of North Georgia’s natural beauty. The Mountain Laurel Festival honors the state flower with parades, pageants, and community events. Festival activities happen throughout downtown Trenton, centered around 100 Main Street, Trenton, Georgia 30752.

When mountain laurel bushes burst into pink and white blooms in May, the festival brings the community together. A parade featuring floats, marching bands, and beauty queens winds through downtown streets. Arts and crafts vendors display handmade items.

Live music and entertainment continue throughout the day. Food vendors serve festival favorites and local specialties. A car show attracts automotive enthusiasts with vintage and custom vehicles.

The festival has been a Trenton tradition since 1957, making it one of Georgia’s oldest continuous festivals. Most events are free to attend. I recommend combining your festival visit with hiking in nearby Cloudland Canyon State Park to see mountain laurel in its natural habitat.

The small-town atmosphere and genuine hospitality make visitors feel like part of the community. Bring your camera to capture the beautiful blooms.

11. Hay House Festival

History comes alive at this annual celebration held at one of Georgia’s most beautiful historic homes. The Hay House Festival showcases this Italian Renaissance Revival mansion while providing family entertainment and cultural experiences. The festival takes place at the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation’s Hay House, located at 934 Georgia Avenue, Macon, Georgia 31201.

Tours of the 18,000-square-foot mansion reveal original furnishings, artwork, and architectural details from the 1850s. The house features advanced technology for its era, including indoor plumbing and a central heating system. Festival activities spread across the mansion’s grounds with craft vendors, food trucks, and live music.

Living history demonstrations show period crafts and customs. Children’s activities include games popular in the Victorian era. The festival typically occurs in spring when the mansion’s gardens are in bloom.

Admission fees support the preservation of this historic property. I recommend taking a guided tour before exploring the outdoor festival areas. Photography is allowed in most areas.

The combination of history, architecture, and festival fun creates a memorable experience that educates while entertaining.