22 Free October Events To Enjoy Around Metro Atlanta
October in Atlanta ushers in crisp autumn air and a calendar overflowing with free events.
Halloween thrills, cultural festivals, live performances, and seasonal markets create a festive mix that captures the spirit of fall.
Whether you’re seeking family outings or laid-back evenings, metro Atlanta offers countless ways to celebrate the season without opening your wallet.
1. Oakhurst Porchfest
Neighbors transform their porches into stages as local musicians perform throughout Oakhurst’s charming streets.
Wander between homes while enjoying diverse musical styles from jazz to folk to rock. The community atmosphere makes this grassroots music festival uniquely special and perfect for music lovers of all ages.
2. Denim Fest
Fashion meets fun at this celebration of America’s favorite fabric.
Local designers showcase creative denim pieces while visitors enjoy live music and food trucks. Bring your favorite jeans to participate in DIY customization stations where experts help add personal flair to your denim collection.
3. Boo Fest
Kids squeal with delight during this family-friendly Halloween celebration packed with not-too-scary fun.
Face painting, costume contests, and trick-or-treating stations create magical memories for little ones. Parents appreciate the daytime setting that offers Halloween excitement without frightening younger children.
4. Decatur Book Festival
Bookworms unite at Georgia’s largest independent book festival!
Meet favorite authors during signings and engaging panel discussions exploring diverse literary topics. Browse tables stacked with novels, memoirs, and children’s books while connecting with fellow readers who share your passion for the written word.
5. Little 5 Points Halloween Festival And Parade
Quirky creativity explodes during Atlanta’s most eccentric Halloween parade through the bohemian Little Five Points neighborhood.
Elaborate floats, zombie marching bands, and wildly costumed performers delight crowds lining the streets. After the parade, festival areas offer local art, food vendors, and music stages continuing the celebration.
6. Chris Cagle In Concert
Country music fans rejoice as Chris Cagle delivers his signature high-energy performance under October skies.
Sing along to hits like “What Kinda Gone” and “Chicks Dig It” during this rare free concert. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for comfortable seating while enjoying authentic country sounds.
7. Howl On The Green
Four-legged friends strut their stuff in adorable costumes during this Halloween pet parade on the town green.
Laughter fills the air as dogs showcase their superhero, princess, and spooky outfits competing for prizes. Pet-friendly vendors offer treats and accessories while adoption agencies introduce potential forever friends.
8. Powder Springs Marketplace
Artisans display handcrafted treasures at this vibrant open-air market in charming Powder Springs.
Shop for unique jewelry, homemade soaps, and seasonal decorations while chatting directly with makers. Live acoustic music creates a pleasant backdrop for discovering one-of-a-kind gifts created by talented local craftspeople.
9. The French Market
Parisian charm arrives in Atlanta during this delightful celebration of French culture and cuisine.
Admire displays of lavender, sample cheese, and browse French-inspired art while accordions play in the background. Language exchanges and cultural demonstrations offer glimpses into French traditions right in the heart of Georgia.
10. Haints & Saints Day Of The Dead Halloween Parade
Mexican and Southern traditions blend beautifully in this colorful parade honoring ancestors and celebrating life.
Vibrant sugar skull makeup and elaborate costumes create a visual feast for spectators. Musicians, dancers, and puppet performers process through streets transformed by marigold decorations and candlelit altars.
11. Grayson Trunk Or Treat
Classic cars become candy stations at this automotive twist on traditional trick-or-treating.
Vintage vehicles line up with decorated trunks full of treats while their proud owners chat with admirers. Kids safely collect candy in a controlled environment while parents appreciate the community atmosphere and chance to view remarkable automobiles.
12. Trees Atlanta Panel Discussion
Environmental experts share fascinating insights about urban forests during this engaging educational event.
Learn about native tree species and their crucial role in Atlanta’s ecosystem while connecting with fellow nature enthusiasts. Questions from audience members spark thoughtful conversations about practical ways to protect and expand our vital tree canopy.
13. Movies Alfresco
Starlight cinema magic happens when family-friendly films play on a giant outdoor screen under October’s clear skies.
Snuggle under blankets while enjoying classics or new releases in the open air. Arrive early to claim prime viewing spots and participate in themed pre-movie activities related to the evening’s feature presentation.
14. Apple Arts Festival
Fall’s favorite fruit takes center stage at this celebration combining harvest traditions with creative arts.
Sample different apple varieties and apple-infused treats while browsing craft booths featuring apple-themed artwork. Kids delight in apple-based activities from bobbing contests to painting with apple prints.
15. Dinner And A BOOvie
Moonlight illuminates food trucks serving delicious meals before Halloween-themed movies play for gathered families.
Kids arrive in pajamas and costumes ready for spooky (but not too scary) films perfect for younger viewers. Bring chairs and blankets for comfortable viewing under the stars while enjoying seasonal treats from local vendors.
16. Cultura Fiesta Latina
Rhythmic Latin music pulses through this vibrant celebration of Hispanic heritage and culture.
Dancers in colorful traditional costumes perform while food vendors serve authentic dishes from various Latin American countries. Art displays, cultural exhibits, and interactive workshops provide insights into diverse Hispanic traditions and contemporary Latino experiences.
17. Wire And Wood Songwriters Festival
Musicians reveal the stories behind their songs during intimate performances showcasing the songwriting craft.
Listen as talented artists explain inspirations and creative processes between playing original compositions. Multiple stages feature diverse musical styles from folk and country to rock and blues in Alpharetta’s charming downtown setting.
18. Hapeville Chili Cook-Off
Spicy aromas fill the air as competitive cooks vie for bragging rights with their signature chili recipes.
Sample dozens of unique chili varieties from traditional beef to creative vegetarian versions with unexpected ingredients. Judges award prizes while visitors vote for the coveted People’s Choice Award in this deliciously heated competition.
19. Gopher Tortoise Festival
Wildlife conservation becomes a celebration at this family festival highlighting Georgia’s state reptile.
Meet live gopher tortoises and learn about efforts to protect their threatened habitats. Environmental organizations provide interactive educational activities teaching children about ecosystem preservation through games and crafts.
20. Atlanta Pride Parade
Rainbow flags wave proudly during this joyful celebration of LGBTQ+ community and inclusion through Midtown streets.
Colorful floats, marching groups, and performers create a spectacular procession celebrating diversity. Spectators cheer from sidewalks during this powerful demonstration of love and acceptance that draws participants from across the Southeast.
21. Marietta HarvestFest
Historic Marietta Square transforms into autumn wonderland with pumpkins, hay bales, and fall flowers creating perfect photo backdrops.
Artisan vendors surround the charming gazebo while live music fills the air throughout the day. Children enjoy face painting and seasonal crafts while adults appreciate the chance to support local businesses in this picturesque setting.
22. Atlanta Beltline Lantern Parade
Magical light creations illuminate the night as parade participants carry handmade lanterns along the popular Eastside Trail.
Thousands of spectators watch the glowing procession featuring giant puppets and illuminated art pieces. Musicians playing drums and brass instruments create a festive soundtrack for this enchanting community celebration of creativity and light.
