Athens, Georgia, invites travelers to immerse themselves in its vibrant and creative energy in 2025. The year ahead brings an exciting array of new attractions, special events and milestone celebrations that further enrich the city’s storied cultural scene. As Athens continues to build on its Classic City legacy, it remains a dynamic destination where tradition meets innovation.
NEW DEVELOPMENTS AND ATTRACTIONS
Top-Tier Entertainment at Akins Ford Arena
Just steps from downtown’s lively center, the brand-new Akins Ford Arena is redefining the city’s entertainment scene. Opening in December 2024, this 8,500-seat, state-of-the-art venue will host an exciting array of events throughout 2025. As the home of the Rock Lobsters FHPL hockey team and the UGA Ice Dawgs, the arena is set to thrill sports fans. The 2025 calendar also boasts performances by country stars like Riley Green, Parker McCollum and Megan Moroney, alongside family-friendly favorites including the Harlem Globetrotters and Disney on Ice. With its top-tier programming and unbeatable location, Akins Ford Arena is set to become a cornerstone of Athens’ entertainment landscape.
Beyond the Medici: The Haukohl Family Collection at the Georgia Museum of Art
February 1 – May 18, 2025 Experience one of the finest private collections of Florentine baroque art outside Italy at the Georgia Museum of Art. “Beyond the Medici,” an exhibition showcasing works from the renowned Haukohl Family Collection, brings together masterpieces acquired over 40 years by Houston-based art collector Sir Mark Fehrs Haukohl. This collaboration with the Medici Archive Project offers a rare chance to experience world-class art in Athens. Situated on the University of Georgia campus, the Georgia Museum of Art is the state’s official art museum, known for its dynamic exhibitions and permanent collections. With free admission, it’s a must-visit destination for both art lovers and those seeking cultural enrichment in 2025.
Distilling at Athentic Brewing Company
Athentic Brewing Company is elevating Athens’ beverage scene in 2025 with its entry into the world of distilling. In August 2024, Athentic announced a partnership with Drayton Distillery, a collaboration that brings craft spirits to the forefront of its offerings. Production began in fall 2024, and the first releases—vodka, an agave spirit and white rum—are set to debut in 2025. This new venture complements Athentic Brewing’s celebrated lineup of beers, expanding its taproom and to-go options while adding a fresh layer of creativity to Athens’ vibrant craft beverage community.
Award-Winning Rivet House
Rivet House, Athens’ newest boutique hotel, has already made waves since its opening in June 2024. Recognized as a finalist in Interior Design Magazine’s 2024 Best of Year Awards, this 50-room gem redefines modern hospitality. Located in the vibrant Southern Mill development, Rivet House combines cutting-edge design with a deep connection to local culture. The hotel, brought to life by husband-and-wife team James and Jessica Whitley and managed by Indigo Road Hospitality Group, reimagines a historic denim mill with stunning interiors designed by Jessica herself. Guests can indulge in signature experiences, including Osteria Olio, a contemporary Italian dining destination, and a tranquil spa offering rejuvenating treatments.
ANNIVERSARIES AND ANNUAL EVENTS
25th Anniversary of Five & Ten
In 2025, Five & Ten marks its 25th anniversary as a cornerstone of Athens’ dining scene. Originally founded by two-time James Beard Award-winning chef Hugh Acheson, this flagship restaurant put Athens on the national culinary map in the early 2000s, sparking a golden era of local gastronomy that endures to this day. Now under the stewardship of UGA Grady College alum Peter Dale, Five & Ten continues to honor its rich legacy while embracing fresh perspectives. Dale has revived iconic dishes from the restaurant’s past and introduced new creations, all crafted with ingredients from local farmers and artisans. Even its desserts highlight Athens connections, featuring chocolate from Condor Chocolates, co-owned by Peter and his brother Nick Dale.
Athens Wine Weekend
February 7-9, 2025
Wine enthusiasts and food lovers won’t want to miss Athens Wine Weekend 2025, a highly anticipated three-day event held February 7-9 at The Classic Center. This celebration will feature a dynamic lineup of wine tastings, educational seminars and gourmet pairings from top local chefs, including participants from Five & Ten, Pretty Boy, South Kitchen + Bar and The Pine Bar. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a curated selection of wines from around the world, engage in interactive sessions with industry experts and indulge in expertly crafted food and wine combinations. Set against the vibrant backdrop of downtown Athens, Athens Wine Weekend promises to be an unforgettable experience that highlights the artistry of wine and cuisine.
50th Anniversary of Juried Exhibition at the Lyndon House Arts Center
March 13 – May 10, 2025 The Lyndon House Arts Center will commemorate the 50th Anniversary of its iconic Juried Exhibition, a cornerstone of Athens’ vibrant arts community. This milestone event invites Athens-area visual artists to submit works in any medium for consideration. The 2025 juror is Michael Rooks, the Wieland Family Senior Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at Atlanta’s High Museum. Renowned for his dedication to fostering community and making art accessible to diverse audiences, Rooks brings a wealth of expertise and vision to this special anniversary. The celebration will kick off with an opening reception, where attendees can meet Rooks and explore the exceptional creativity of local artists.
Third Annual Athens Beer Fest
April 6, 2025
Celebrate the arrival of spring at the Third Annual Athens Beer Fest, set for Sunday, April 6, 2025, from 1 pm to 4 pm at The Classic Center’s 440 Foundry Pavilion. This exciting event invites beer lovers to sample the latest and greatest brews from some of the region’s top breweries, including Akademia, Athentic, Creature Comforts, Normaltown, Terrapin and more! Enjoy an afternoon filled with live music, food trucks and plenty of craft beer to savor. Plus, your participation supports The Classic Center Cultural Foundation, which funds over $60,000 in grants and scholarships for hospitality education, performing arts and visual arts. Don’t miss out on this fun-filled event that’s as good for the community as it is for your taste buds!
15th Anniversary of Athens Showgirl Cabaret
Celebrating 15 years of performance and community, the Athens Showgirl Cabaret, founded in 2010 by Kelly and Alice Divine, continues to bring drag, burlesque and variety shows to Athens. Known for their monthly performances at Hendershot’s in downtown Athens, the Cabaret hosts three signature events: Fabulous Fridays, Drag For All (an all-ages show) and quarterly Sunday Drag Brunches. A portion of the tips from each show supports local charities, with the Boybutante AIDS Foundation being a regular recipient. As a collective group of performers, the Athens Showgirl Cabaret not only entertains but also raises awareness for intersectional LGBTQ+ issues, supports local charities, and participates in community events.
