By Lindsay Field Penticuff

Nothing brings a community together like a beloved annual event. Fortunately, there are plenty of options all across the metro Atlanta area, from food and arts festivals to holiday parties, concert series and more. Be sure to check out these can’t-miss events that draw both locals and visitors to Braselton, Smyrna, Peachtree Corners and Marietta each and every year.

BRASELTON:

Home to nearly 13,000 residents, the town of Braselton is where Southern hospitality thrives. And as locals say, “It’s better in Braselton.” The city beams with charm thanks to its historic downtown and scenic beauty. There’s also plenty to do year round, welcoming visitors from all across the Southeast.

Motul Petit Le Mans

For more than 20 years, Petit Le Mans has been the sporting event to experience in the Southeast. Drivers, teams and manufacturers from around the world compete each October at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in Braselton. The event also includes a kids zone, vendors, food trucks, displays, car corrals, camping, a bar, a grid walk, autograph sessions and more. The best part? Kids 12 and younger get in free.

Braselton Antique and Artisan Festivals

Looking for vintage and handmade finds? Look no further! Join 300 vendors and 25,000 attendees for three days of shopping during the semi-annual Braselton Antique and Artisan Festivals, held on the fourth weekends in April and October in downtown Braselton. Dealers from across metro Atlanta and surrounding states bring their best for this popular festival series, which has been held for 20 years.

Vineyard Fest

For more than two decades, Vineyard Fest has been Chateau Élan Winery and Resort’s signature celebration. This highly anticipated event, which is held each November, offers full access to 100 domestic and international wines, regional craft beers and spirits and locally sourced cuisine. The professional culinary and winemaking teams also host demonstrations and seminars, and guests have an opportunity to appreciate the native Georgia Muscadine grapes that are part of North Georgia’s heritage.

SMYRNA:

Known as the Jonquil City for the thousands of jonquils that bloom in gardens and along the streets each spring, Smyrna boasts a long and colorful history. It is located just 10 miles northwest of Atlanta, and it is home to more than 56,000 residents who enjoy a bounty of events all year long.

City of Smyrna Birthday/Culture and Spirit Festival

The City of Smyrna’s 150th birthday celebration was such a hit last year that the city decided to host a similar event again in 2023! The downtown festival will begin at 11 am, with performances held on multiple stages throughout the day. This year’s festival also will include the grand opening of Smyrna’s redesigned Village Green and a featured performance on the Community Center stage in the afternoon.

Food Truck Tuesdays

Held at Taylor-Brawner Park in Smyrna, Food Truck Tuesdays have been a must-eat event since the concept first began in 2012. Every Tuesday from May 2 to September 26, guests can enjoy food and live music from 5 pm to 9 pm. The park also includes a playground and dedicated restrooms, so it’s a great spot to enjoy an afternoon with family, friends, neighbors or colleagues after work.

Crafts and Drafts Festival

This beloved annual fall festival features cold beer, football on big screen televisions and 150 arts and crafts booths, as well as food booths and plenty of fun activities for the whole family. In 2023, the event is scheduled for Saturday, October 28, and Sunday, October 29, on the Village Green in downtown Smyrna. In addition to the usual activities, the weekend will serve up a slice of the Halloween season for guests.

PEACHTREE CORNERS:

While Peachtree Corners didn’t officially become a city until 2011, locals have enjoyed its work-life-play balance throughout many decades. This includes an abundance of activities and festivals that draw many to the area throughout the year for celebrations, concerts and much more.

Night Music

An awesome concert series hosted by the City of Peachtree Corners, Night Music is a free event held the second Saturday of every month from May through October. Guests enjoy live music featuring local artists and a great way to spend the weekend with family, friends or neighbors in the city’s Town Center.

Summer Concerts Series

Also hosted by the City of Peachtree Corners, the Summer Concert Series is a free event that features live music under the stars. The concerts are held on the last Saturday of each month from May through October. The series features popular tunes performed by original artists and cover bands, and fans are encouraged to eat at restaurants in the city’s Town Center or bring their own food to the concerts.

Holiday Glow

Held on the Town Green each year—and scheduled for Thursday, November 30 this year—Holiday Glow is a festival that celebrates the holiday season with lights, music, singalongs, treats and a very special visit from Santa Claus himself. Guests are reminded to bring their lawn chairs so they can sit back and relax while sipping on hot chocolate and enjoying the holiday fun.

MARIETTA:

The City of Marietta is located northwest of Atlanta and is known for its lively community and vibrant history. Marietta Square, which is the heart of the downtown area, features quaint shops, awesome eats, a beautiful park and theaters and is the perfect setting for an array of celebrated annual events.

Taste of Marietta

The Taste of Marietta is one of the largest and longest-running food festivals in metro Atlanta. The annual food event is held on the last Sunday in April and has become a favorite annual tradition among local residents and visitors. It’s an opportunity to showcase and highlight some of Cobb County’s most-loved restaurants and caterers.

Chalktoberfest

Enjoy a beautiful October weekend sampling craft beers, listening to live music, eating great food and watching professional chalk artists chalk the streets on beautiful Marietta Square during Chalktoberfest. Always a big hit with locals and visitors, this event offers a fun outing for the family, and it’s free to attend. All proceeds benefit the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art.

Marietta Pilgrimage Christmas Home Tour

This December marks the 37th annual Marietta Pilgrimage Christmas Home Tour, which is organized by Visit Marietta and the Cobb Landmarks & Historical Society and supports each of these nonprofits. The tour allows attendees to get a glimpse inside five lovingly restored private homes located in Marietta that have been beautifully decorated for the holiday season.