Athens comes alive with an array of fall activities, ranging from popular concerts and unique festivals to delectable culinary experiences. To ensure you make the most of this fall season, we're here to highlight some of the top upcoming events in Athens. Get ready to tick off your Athens fall bucket list with these fantastic options. Let the festivities begin!
Annual Events
Georgia Rodeo
When: October 6, starting at 10 AM
Where: Athens Fairgrounds
Price: General Admission starting at $92
What: Calling all music enthusiasts and country fans! Get ready for a day of live music, tailgating, and country vibes at the Georgia Rodeo. Enjoy performances from Hardy, Yung Gravy, Ian Munsick, Megan Moroney, and The Castellows, all while indulging in delicious food and refreshing drinks!
Historic Athens Porchfest
When: October 15, 12 PM – 8 PM
Where: Boulevard, Buena Vista Heights, Cobbham, Newtown, Normaltown, and Pulaski Heights neighborhoods
Price: Free!
What: Experience the captivating energy of Athens' music scene and its authentic neighborhoods at this year's Historic Athens Porchfest! Enjoy 155 concerts on 150 porches all over the course of a single afternoon. Seize this opportunity to delight in the city's musical talents while simultaneously exploring the charming streets and neighborhoods of Athens!
AthHalf Half Marathon & 5K
When: 5K on October 21 at 2:30 PM, Half Marathon on October 22 at 7:30 AM
Where: Downtown Athens
Price: 5K: $35, Half Marathon: $65-$125
What: Immerse yourself in our picturesque city by taking part in the upcoming AthHalf Half Marathon & 5K. This race route will guide you through the heart of downtown Athens, local neighborhoods, and the iconic University of Georgia campus. Soak in the stunning scenes that Athens has to offer, all while staying active and contributing to a great cause!
Wild Rumpus
When: October 28, starting at 8 PM
Where: Downtown Athens
Price: Free!
What: You will not want to miss Wild Rumpus, one of Athens’ largest fall spectacles! Join thousands of your closest friends in the streets of Athens for a magnificent parade, a myriad of intricate costumes, and, naturally, an abundance of food and beverages. The 15th Annual Wild Rumpus Celebration invites all to celebrate! Top sponsors include Downtown Athens, GA, Creature Comforts Brewing Co., Widespread Panic, and more.
Recurring Events
Athens Farmers Market
When: Wednesdays, 5 PM – 8 PM & Saturdays 8 AM – 12 PM
Where: Wednesdays at Creature Comforts Brewing Co. & Saturdays at Bishop Park
Price: Free!
What: Make some time to visit the Athens Farmers Market on a Wednesday afternoon at Creature Comforts or a Saturday morning at Bishop Park. With fresh and local produce and goods available weekly, you are sure to find the best of this season's offerings. Spend time with family and friends on a beautiful fall day while supporting local vendors!
UGA Sports
When: Check the UGA Sports Calendar!
Where: University of Georgia
Price: Varies by sport
What: Come out and cheer on the Georgia Bulldogs this fall! Whether you are a football fanatic, a soccer enthusiast, or a gymnastics superfan, we have plenty of options for you. Enjoy competitive games from the Georgia Bulldogs in a wide variety of sports. Find information on other fall sports teams here. Go Dawgs!
Georgia Theatre
When: Check Events Calendar!
Where: Georgia Theatre
Price: Varies by show
What: The Georgia Theatre is the cornerstone of the Athens music scene, with performances from a wide array of artists and bands. There is plenty of music at the theatre this fall, so make sure to go check out a show! And as the weather cools, enjoy an evening on the Rooftop prior to your show. You can’t go wrong with fantastic food and even better music!
Athens Haunted History Walking Tours
When: Tours by appointment
Where: Athens Haunted History Walking Tours
Price: $18 per person, reservations required
What: Join local historian, Jeff Clarke, for a fascinating 2-hour walking tour called “Athens Haunted History!” With a deep knowledge of Athens’ past, Clarke brings to life the stories of love and loss that linger in the city. His engaging storytelling and dramatic flair make this tour an exciting way to explore Athens’ secrets and history!
Zombie Farms Haunted Trail
When: September 30 – October 29 (recurring on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays)
Where: Zombie Farms
Price: $28 – $40 depending on night and group size
What: Ready to get in the Halloween spirit? Look no further than the Zombie Farms Haunted Trail, a thrilling ¾ mile walk through spooky woods filled with frightening monsters and creepy characters. This 2023 season brings a fresh addition – the Halloween Forest – featuring cool scenery and new paths to explore. Get yourself in the spooky season mood with a thrilling night at Zombie Farms!
Take the opportunity to finally check off these Athens activities from your bucket list, but with a delightful fall twist! Embrace the spirit of the season and try something new. If you're a local, dive into experiences you've been meaning to have. If you're new to Athens, start making plans to get here soon and spend fall the right way - in the Classic City.
