The Summer Shade Festival in Atlanta is scheduled for August 23-24, 2025. Taking place in Grant Park, the beloved two-day festival is a perfect way to celebrate the end of summer. Organized by the Grant Park Conservancy, the celebration brings together Atlanteans and tourists for a weekend filled with live performances, art exhibits, food, and a sense of community.
Highlights
- The 23rd Summer Shade Festival will be held August 23–24, 2025, in Atlanta’s Grant Park.
- The two-day event runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
- This year’s program includes a curated artist market, a vintage goods fair, children’s activities, live shows, and a 5K run.
Grant Park Hosts Summer Shade Festival 2025
The Summer Shade Festival will take place from August 23 to August 24, 2025. The two-day, free event returns to Grant Park, one of Atlanta’s oldest and most historic public green spaces.
This year marks the 23rd year of the festival, which is organized by the Grant Park Conservancy. The festival showcases local art, music, and creative programming while supporting the Grant Park Conservancy’s mission. With live music, family-oriented activities, and food and drink offerings, the festival will enliven one of the city’s most historic green spaces.
The Summer Shade Festival ranks among the Conservancy’s largest annual fundraising events. From families and art enthusiasts to music lovers and casual weekend visitors, there’s something for everyone. Expect surprises at every turn as the season winds down in style.
Music, Markets, and More
The weekend features an impressive lineup of live performances hosted by the Main Stage and the Gazebo Stage. GVG Event’s curated showcase of vintage goods joins over 140 local artists who will be set up near the restored Milledge Fountain.
Food vendors will serve a variety of offerings, including empanadas, hibachi-style dishes, and barbecue. Whether exploring handmade goods, catching local tunes, or relaxing under the trees, it’s a perfect way to spend the weekend.
Across the weekend, the park will pulse with music and creative energy. Attendees can expect two daily performances by Deep South Wrestling as well as family programming like the Kids’ Bouncy House Village. The festival provides a platform for regional artists and chefs.
Interactive activities include face painting, yoga on the lawn, and dancing under the trees, keeping the weekend lively for all ages. The Sunday morning Move & Groove activation will be hosted by the Grant Park Parents Network.
5K Race Event
Saturday’s first activity, the Adams Realtors Run for the Park 5K, begins at 8:00 a.m. This local 5K supports the Conservancy’s ongoing programs and fundraising efforts. Runners, walkers, and stroller teams of all abilities are welcome to participate in the event. Registration is now open to the public here.
Admission
The 2025 Summer Shade Festival welcomes everyone with free admission. Admission to the festival is free, though food and beverages are available for purchase. Per city rules, pets are not allowed at the festival.
Grant Park brings natural shade for attendees despite the peak heat of August. Attendees will find water stations located throughout the site to stay hydrated. Festival hours run rain or shine.
The Summer Shade Festival combines live music, local art, and community activities for a memorable end-of-summer weekend.
