Atlanta's vibrant energy peaks over the weekend, offering a rich variety of activities for...
The third week of November is a wonderful time to experience Atlanta. The city is alive with fall colors and a refreshing chill in the air. Each year, this week brings an outstanding lineup of unique markets, cultural attractions, festive shows, and food festivals—so you have plenty of exciting things to experience around Atlanta before Thanksgiving.
You’ll find highlights like bustling artist markets, holiday performances, and hotly contested cookoffs. Want a classic landmark? Don’t miss the World of Coca Cola, the Atlanta Botanical Garden, or the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. You can also expand your horizons with a visit to the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, discover art at the High Museum, and explore lively food halls like Ponce City Market.
Whether you’re in town with your family, hanging out with friends, or seeking a solo adventure, this guide features Atlanta events and attractions you’ll want to add to your plans.
Table of contents
- Tech Square Community Market
- Upper Deck Golf at Truist Park
- Xfinity Movie Series at The Battery Atlanta
- Gabby's Dollhouse Live! at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
- Holiday Lights and Flight Fest
- Atlanta Chili Cookoff
- IllumiNights at Zoo Atlanta
- Atlanta Halal Fall Festival
- A Magical Cirque Christmas at The Fox Theatre
1. Tech Square Community Market
Date: Thursday, November 20, 2025
Location: Centergy One Plaza, Midtown Atlanta
This popular Midtown market, organized by GVG Events and Georgia Tech Dining, is filled with vibrant energy. Stroll through rows of booths featuring handmade crafts, artworks, and vintage finds from artists all across the Southeast.
Discover locally made gifts for loved ones or find something special for yourself. Once you’ve browsed the market, head to Ponce City Market for more artisanal shopping or check out the neighborhood’s excellent bar and restaurant options. Explore the Atlanta BeltLine for public art and city vibes just steps away.
2. Upper Deck Golf at Truist Park
Date: Thursday, November 20 – Saturday, November 22, 2025
Location: Truist Park, Atlanta
Get a whole new perspective on Truist Park at this limited-time event. Upper Deck Golf transforms the home of the Braves into a golfer’s dream, where you drive balls from the stands straight onto the field.
This is a standout experience for sports and golf lovers alike. Play your way across the stadium and create lasting memories. After a round, explore The Battery Atlanta’s lively mix of food halls and entertainment, or stop by the College Football Hall of Fame nearby.
3. Xfinity Movie Series at The Battery Atlanta
Date: Friday, November 21, 2025
Location: The Battery Atlanta
Watch a family-friendly blockbuster under the stars as part of The Battery’s free outdoor film series. Bring a blanket and settle in on the plaza lawn.
This event is perfect for families and groups who want a laid-back evening after a busy week. Enjoy easy access to drinks, snacks, and nearby food hall favorites. If time allows, walk through The Battery’s entertainment district for more activities and night-life before or after the movie.
4. Gabby's Dollhouse Live!
Date: Friday, November 21, 2025
Location: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atlanta
Step into Gabby’s magical world and enjoy a lively stage production. This interactive musical features beloved TV characters, catchy songs, and bright visuals for young fans.
Parents seeking fun things to do with kids in Atlanta’s Westside will love this event. Pair your ticket with a daytime visit to the Atlanta Botanical Garden or catch breathtaking city views from the Jackson Street Bridge. There’s also plenty for adults—explore nearby restaurants and shopping or take in art at the High Museum.
5. Holiday Lights and Flight Fest
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
Location: Lilburn City Park, Lilburn
Light up your weekend at this family-friendly festival in the nearby suburb of Lilburn. Enjoy live performances and heartwarming cocoa as the city’s tree comes aglow. Santa’s visit caps off the evening, sparking extra joy.
This event is a favorite for those ready to get into the holiday spirit. Capture delightful photos, enjoy seasonal treats, and join a welcoming community tradition. For more holiday fun, head downtown to explore the swan house at the Atlanta History Center or seek out more local light displays.
6. Atlanta Chili Cookoff
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
Location: Brook Run Park, Dunwoody
Taste your way through a spicy showdown at this annual chili competition. Professional chefs and home cooks compete for culinary bragging rights, and guests vote for the winning flavors. The day also features live music and fun family games.
If you’re searching for epic food events in Atlanta’s suburbs, this chili cookoff should top your list. Before or after, visit the High Museum of Art to see inspiring works or explore the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. Refuel at a local bar or restaurant that rounds out your flavor adventure.
7. IllumiNights at Zoo Atlanta
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
Location: 8Zoo Atlanta, 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta
See hundreds of luminous lanterns after sunset at Zoo Atlanta’s walk-through festival. Larger-than-life animals and artistic glowing displays turn the zoo into a magical nighttime landscape.
This is a perfect activity for families or date night near Grant Park. Take your time admiring the artistry and stop in Zoo Atlanta’s food hall for a snack. Finish your evening with a stroll on the BeltLine or visit the nearby National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
8. Atlanta Halal Fall Festival
Date: Sunday, November 23, 2025
Location: 840 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta
Bring friends and an appetite to this picnic-style festival. Taste international foods, browse handmade items at the artisan market, and listen to live entertainment all day. It’s a celebration of Atlanta’s cultural diversity and community spirit.
This is one of the best places to sample new dishes, meet local vendors, and enjoy an energetic atmosphere. You’re also just blocks from major attractions: the Georgia Aquarium, the King Jr. National Historical Park, and the Atlanta History Center are all nearby for an easy day of exploring.
9. A Magical Cirque Christmas at The Fox Theatre
Date: Sunday, November 23, 2025
Location: The Fox Theatre, Atlanta
The legendary Fox Theatre welcomes cirque artists, musicians, and holiday magic in this visually stunning show. Dazzling feats and festive music delight audiences of all ages.
End your Atlanta weekend with an unforgettable performance in one of the South's grandest venues. Relive the experience over a meal in a nearby food hall or by admiring the Midtown skyline lit up for the season.
Explore Atlanta’s top attractions and landmarks
Looking to fill your weekend with even more? The World of Coca Cola and Georgia Aquarium are flagship experiences for Atlanta visitors, while the Atlanta Botanical Garden stays beautiful well into November. Take a walk over the Jackson Street Bridge for iconic city views, or discover the historic Swan House at the Atlanta History Center.
Don’t forget the impactful exhibits at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights and King Jr. National Historical Park. Locals and visitors alike enjoy strolling, biking, or dining along the vibrant Atlanta BeltLine. Seeking a bite? The city’s food halls—like Ponce City Market—offer global flavors and lively energy. Art, history, and culture shine at the High Museum of Art and throughout Midtown, giving you a wide variety of things to do around Atlanta any day of the week.
Whether you’re craving entertainment, exploring new cultural experiences, or diving into Atlanta’s renowned food scene, the week before Thanksgiving is packed with can’t-miss events and destinations. Grab your calendar, invite loved ones, and get out to experience everything Atlanta has to offer this November!
