Atlanta is ushering in the summer season with a diverse array of events this Memorial Day weekend, offering residents and visitors a blend of music, culture, and entertainment. From May 24 to 26, the city is alive with activities ranging from the soulful rhythms of jazz to the energetic beats of Caribbean music, alongside conventions celebrating pop culture and thrilling sports matchups.
Atlanta Jazz Festival: A Melodic Tradition
Piedmont Park takes center stage as it hosts the 48th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival, a signature Memorial Day weekend tradition. This free event is one of the largest jazz festivals in the country and features performances from a stellar lineup of international stars and local favorites. Artists such as Derrick Hodge, Ravi Coltrane, Dianne Reeves, Russell Gunn, and the Joe Gransden Big Band are slated to perform, drawing jazz enthusiasts from across the region.
Each day, the festival runs from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., creating a vibrant atmosphere that blends soulful music with community celebration. In addition to live performances, the event includes an artist market, food trucks offering a range of cuisines, and activities that cater to families and children. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs to enjoy a full day of music under the sun.
MomoCon 2025: Celebrating Pop Culture
Meanwhile, pop culture fans are flocking to the Georgia World Congress Center for MomoCon 2025, a four-day celebration of anime, gaming, comics, and cosplay. The event, marking its 20th anniversary, includes panel discussions, celebrity appearances, gaming tournaments, and interactive experiences. Highlights include the ANX Kpop Battles, a popular draw for fans of Korean pop culture, and an expansive exhibitor hall filled with merchandise and collectibles.
MomoCon provides a space for fans of all ages to connect with their passions and find community among fellow enthusiasts. Many attendees come in elaborate costumes, showcasing months of preparation and creativity, making the convention a colorful and inclusive spectacle.
Atlanta Caribbean Carnival: A Cultural Extravaganza
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Atlanta Caribbean Carnival brings a burst of culture and color to the city streets. This high-energy event celebrates the diverse Caribbean heritage with a parade filled with vibrant costumes, rhythmic music, and traditional dance. Marchers and floats move through the city accompanied by the sounds of steel drums and soca music.
Beyond the parade, the carnival grounds feature live performances, food stalls offering Caribbean delicacies, and craft vendors. It’s an opportunity to experience the rich traditions of Caribbean culture in an immersive and joyful setting.
Brew at the Zoo: Sips and Sounds
Zoo Atlanta’s annual Brew at the Zoo event returns on May 24, offering a unique combination of wildlife viewing, live music, and beverage tasting. Guests 21 and over can enjoy samples of beer and wine while exploring the zoo’s exhibits in the evening. With performances from local bands and DJs, the event offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a night out.
This event supports Zoo Atlanta’s conservation efforts, making it not just fun but meaningful. It’s also a rare opportunity to enjoy the zoo without the daytime crowds, providing a fresh experience for returning visitors.
Atlanta Dream and Atlanta United: Sports Action
Sports fans have two big games to look forward to over the weekend. The Atlanta Dream hosts their first home game of the WNBA season against the Indiana Fever at State Farm Arena, welcoming fans back for another exciting season of women’s basketball. Simultaneously, Atlanta United faces off against FC Cincinnati at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in a major MLS matchup.
Both games are expected to draw large crowds and high energy, adding to the city’s already festive atmosphere.
Stone Mountain Park: Patriotic Celebrations
For families and those looking for traditional celebrations, Stone Mountain Park offers patriotic programming all weekend long. Each evening features a spectacular Drone & Light Show set to music, followed by a fireworks finale. Performances from the 116th U.S. Army Band add to the holiday spirit. Military members and their families are honored with complimentary and discounted admission.
This multi-day celebration is ideal for families looking to enjoy Memorial Day in a classic American setting.