Spring Festivals and Events in Athens, GA

Spring in Athens, GA is packed with festivals, live music, outdoor activities, and can’t-miss events. From vibrant street festivals and local art markets to one of America’s top cycling races, Athens comes alive with things to do all season long. Explore our Athens, Georgia spring events calendar to discover what’s happening this weekend and beyond—plus find plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, from patio dining to parks, trails, and nearby adventures.

Athens Spring Events Calendar:

Spring Scenes

What are the Best Spring Festivals and Events Happening in Athens Georgia?

March Events

• March 19-21, 2026: The Great Southland Stampede Rodeo is one of the only large-scale rodeos that is completely student operated. UGA Block and Bridle members are proud to hold the event that meets the National Cowboy Professional Rodeo Association guidelines. It's great fun for the entire family.
   
• March 28, 2026:  Love being outside, checking out great scenery, and staying active? Then the Firefly Ticket to Ride cycling event is for you! This non-competitive (read: anyone and everyone is welcome!) bike ride winds through beautiful countryside and friendly towns along the historic corridor of the Georgia Railroad Athens Branch.  Choose the start location that's best for your preferred length and terrain.  All proceeds benefit the work of Firefly Trail Inc. to promote the completion of the 39-mile multipurpose trail from Union Point to Athens.
   
• March 28, 2026: Jam in the Streets returns to downtown Athens on March 28, 2026, bringing multiple stages, world-renowned and local artists, food vendors, and interactive activations to Washington Street. Hosted by Jam For Cam, this annual festival supports the fight against melanoma through awareness, education, prevention, and research funding.

April Events

Hold on tight- April is packing a season's worth of entertainment into ONE weekend!

• April 17-18, 2026: Tens of thousands of visitors flock to Athens to witness the two-wheeled madness of Athens Twilight. This storied, weekend-long event attracts dedicated cyclists from around the globe to compete in the men’s and women’s pro-am criteriums and has recently been called the most insane criterium in the world. The event also features distance running challenges catering to both adults and children, while a food court and expo areas offer spectators and participants a taste of several regional vendors.
   
• April 18, 2026: The UGA International Street Festival unites on-campus international student organizations with various community groups on an exciting day packed full of cultural displays, international music and more. Activities abound for all ages, and visitors have the opportunity to score giveaways and door prizes provided by local sponsors.
   
• April 18, 2026 : G-Day! The University of Georgia's annual Red v. Black Spring Game is much-anticipated after several months without collegiate football. Fans will get a first gameday-style glance at the 2026 edition of the Georgia Bulldogs!
   
• April 18, 2026: Garden Tour of Athens. The Piedmont Gardeners host this annual tour of private gardens not typically open to the public. Enjoy the spring weather and take the opportunity to visit inspirational gardens in Athens.

May Events

• May 2-3, 2026: The Indie South Springtacular Market at General Time. This big Spring event takes place the first weekend of May, and it's the perfect place to shop local for Moms & Grads. 
   
• May 9, 2026: The Winterville Marigold Festival is spring small-town fun at its best-- plan to spend the day with plenty of activities including a 10K road race, an auto show, a parade, a kids area, great vendors and an impressive lineup of live music all day long. The 10K race is a Peachtree qualifier and is one of the oldest 10K races in Georgia, second only to the Peachtree.

Outdoor Activities and Attractions

Plan your Visit!