Athens, Georgia is about to shine even brighter than usual from April 17-19, 2025, with one of the most exciting and family-friendly weekends out of the year, and this year it's extra jam-packed with events. With the high-speed thrills of the Athens Twilight Criterium, the unbeatable spirit of G-Day, the rush of Rock Lobsters Ice Hockey, and the color of the UGA International Street Festival, plus tons of local happenings all across town, this is the weekend to bring the whole family out to play, explore, and make memories.

Twilight for Families: More Than Just a Bike Race

The Athens Twilight Criterium (April 17-19) may be known for its professional nighttime bike races that loop through the heart of downtown Athens, but this festival is packed with fun for all ages — and it’s especially welcoming for families. Be sure to catch the main races at 7pm and 8:30pm on Saturday, but don't miss out on everything else the weekend has to offer!

Here’s how families can enjoy the Twilight experience:

Twilight Kids Zone

Located near the action but away from the crowds, the Twilight Kids Zone is a must-stop for families. Expect inflatable bouncy fun, crafts. and interactive activities for curious minds. Kids can burn off energy while staying engaged. Bouncy houses will be open 5-9pm Friday and 10am- TBD Saturday.

The Twilight Kids Races

Let your little cyclists feel like part of the main event! The Kids Bike Race is one of the most heartwarming Twilight traditions. Bring your child’s bike and helmet and cheer them on as they race (at a much friendlier pace) on a portion of the pro race course. The Kids 1k Bike Criterium is usually at 1:30pm Saturday, the Kids 1k Run is at 1:45pm, and the Kids Parade Lap is at 5:50pm. Staging is in the Kids Zone 20 minutes prior to each event. We'll update here if there are updates to the schedule.

Live Music & Street Performers

From local bands to kids performers, the entertainment doesn’t stop when the bikes whiz by. Stages are set music suitable for all ages. There’s something magical about watching a bike race with a soundtrack of live music in the background.

UGA International Street Festival

Don't miss out on the celebration of the senses at UGA International Street Festival. You don't need to leave Athens to experience food, performances, and activities from all around the world. Happening downtown on April 18th, this is the perfect opportunity to grab an interesting bite to eat between bike races or catch a mind-blowing performance.

🎨 Additional Family-Friendly Activities

Beyond the main events, Athens offers a plethora of family-oriented activities:

• The Rock Lobsters Ice Hockey team will play in Akins Ford Arena on Friday, April 17, and Sunday, April 19.

• Athens Farmers Market and Marigold Farmers Market on Saturday, April 18! Celebrate spring with fresh food, crafts, and music! 

• Visit Indie South's Abnormal Bazaar on Sunday, April 19 for an array of interesting crafts and vintage goods. 

• State Botanical Garden of Georgia: Children can water plants, dig for dinosaur bones, see underneath the soil for how plants grow, and frolic in a forest treehouse. There are gigantic ladybugs to crawl over, water features, fun sculptures, and much, much more. Even better? The Children's Garden is a free attraction!

• Bear Hollow Zoo: Visit native Georgian wildlife in a serene setting. Spot the bears, otters, owls, and many more! Bear Hollow Zoo also has no admission fee!

• Sandy Creek Park: Enjoy outdoor recreation with playgrounds, picnic areas, a beach on lake Chatman, dog park, walking trails and more. Entrance to the park grounds is $2, under 4 years old and over 64 years old free.

For a comprehensive list of events and attractions during this weekend, check out the Visit Athens event calendar.

With a blend of thrilling races, magical performances, and enriching activities, Athens Twilight Weekend 2026 promises unforgettable memories for families.