With the heat index so high lately, it's hard to believe Labor Day is just around the corner. Fortunately, Atlanta has an abundance of Labor Day weekend events this year to occupy every personality type. Whether you are active, adventurous or just looking to relax, we've rounded up a list of the very best Atlanta area Labor Day weekend events.
Soul Rise 5k : Mercedes Benz Stadium
September 1, 2018
Feeling energetic? The annual Soul Rise 5k might be just the thing to kick start your Labor Day weekend. The race begins just across from the Mercedes Benz stadium and runs through historic downtown Atlanta. Not only is this event good for your heart, it's good for the soul. Proceeds from race registrations will help support early childhood development at the YMCA and local community non-profit organizations.
For more details and registration visit the Soul Rise 5k website.
Decatur Book Festival : Decatur Square
August 31 - September 2, 2018
Calling all bibliophiles. The annual AJC Decatur Book Festival is the largest independent book festival in the country and one of the 5 largest book festivals in the world! The event takes place in Decatur Square where visitors can mingle with their favorite authors, collect autographs, listen to author readings and children can enjoy an interactive play area, live music and much more.
This year's keynote speaker at the Book Festival will be Kenny Leon, 'internationally acclaimed director and actor of stage, film, and television."
Read more about the event at the AJC Decatur Book Festival website.
Hot Air Balloon Festival : Callaway Gardens
August 31 - September 2, 2018
The Hot Air Balloon Festival at Callaway Gardens is quite possibly the most beautiful way to see the summer out. On Friday night hot air balloons will light up the dark sky and through the weekend you'll be able to enjoy the balloons, live music, and a kids zone. If you're looking for a quiet retreat you can head off to the many miles of hiking and biking trails surrounding the area.
Don't miss the classic car show and dog frisbee demonstrations as well! You can see a full schedule of events at the Hot Air Balloon Festival website.
Dragon Con : Downtown Atlanta
August 30 - September 3, 2018
Pop culture convention, multigenre party, or sci-fi mega party, whatever you call it, Dragon Con is sure to leave you amazed. Founded in 1987 this annual Atlanta event fixture is returning for its 32nd year and certainly won't disappoint fans with an extensive list of guests. Highlights include appearances by Evangeline Lilly, Jennifer Morrison and Mitch Pileggi of X-Files fame.
Come as you are or come in cosplay (ie. costume). Either way, it's going to a party to remember! For full details and tickets visit the official Dragon Con 2018 website.
TOSA Festival : 10 Northside Drive, Atlanta
August 30 - September 2, 2018
The sister music event to the Soul Rise 5k Run, the TOSA Music Festival is FREE and features an impressive lineup of talented musicians. You'll find a variety of items from food, music, art, and games all paying homage to classic soul.
For more details visit the TOSA Festival website.
Stone Mountain Lasershow Spectacular : Stone Mountain
Varied times/dates
If you've never been to the Lasershow at Stone Mountain you're missing out! Many families have made this spectacular fireworks and laser/music display part of their annual tradition. Labor Day weekend shows will also feature epic flame cannons to add even more wow factor. You know it's major when the FAA has to be consulted prior to show scheduling to avoid interfering with air traffic!
Visit the Stone Mountain website for more information about the Lasershow.