Atlanta, GA, August 30, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta is gearing up for a lively Labor Day weekend filled with diverse events from festivals to parades. The highlight includes Dragon Con, a popular convention celebrating pop culture and cosplay. Families can enjoy special promotions like Kids Free September, alongside cultural celebrations and outdoor activities. With concerts, food festivals, and a vibrant entertainment scene, the city expects an influx of visitors and a boost to the local economy.
Atlanta is gearing up for a vibrant Labor Day weekend, which occurs from August 28 to September 1, 2025. This holiday weekend heralds the unofficial start of fall in Atlanta, enriched with a multitude of events, festivals, and attractions that cater to a variety of interests. Visitors and residents can expect lively festivities including the much-anticipated Dragon Con, a parade, and special promotions at local attractions.
Dragon Con, a premier convention celebrating cosplay, superheroes, and pop culture, is poised to welcome thousands from August 28 through September 1. A highlight of the event will be a free parade taking place on Saturday, August 30, at 10 a.m. along Peachtree Street, drawing fans of all ages. In conjunction with Dragon Con, Atlanta will also host the Atlanta Black Pride celebration and the Atlanta Hip Hop Day Festival, showcasing the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
Another exciting initiative during this month is the Kids Free September promotion, available from September 2 to 30, allowing children to gain free admission to numerous local attractions when accompanied by a paying adult. As the city gears up for fall festivities, Hispanic Heritage Month will take place from September 15 to October 15, highlighting the contributions and culture of the Latino community.
Fashion enthusiasts will also have something to look forward to with Sustainable Fashion Week, running from September 24 through 27, themed “Fashion, Reclaimed.” For foodies, the highly-regarded Atlanta Food & Wine Festival will coincide with various fall festivals like the Yellow Daisy Festival, Candler Park Fall Festival, and Chastain Park Arts Festival, which promise delicious cuisine and shopping opportunities that support local businesses.
In addition to these events, the city is already planning for exciting autumn activities, including a range of Halloween events offering fun for all age groups. Following Halloween, Thanksgiving will be celebrated with the Invesco QQQ Half Marathon and family-oriented events throughout the holiday weekend.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the striking fall colors at local parks and outdoor spaces in Atlanta, making it an ideal time for hiking and exploring the city’s natural beauty. Noteworthy attractions include the Atlanta Botanical Garden, which will feature the captivating “Enchanted Trees” exhibit until January 11, 2026. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra will also be in full swing with over 150 concerts annually, presenting a variety of classical and holiday music performances.
The Georgia Aquarium will host events such as “A Night of Fantasy & Sci-Fi” on August 30, accompanied by various educational programming throughout the fall. Meanwhile, the High Museum of Art will present engaging exhibitions, including works by Faith Ringgold through October 12 and Kim Chong Hak until November 2. Families can enjoy unique experiences at Zoo Atlanta, featuring the upcoming Haunted Seas event and additional special programs as the season progresses.
A lively entertainment scene will be punctuated by major concerts and performances, including a highly anticipated show by Chris Brown at Truist Park, along with several stand-up comedy performances happening over the long weekend.
With an estimated surge of 100,000 extra visitors expected over Labor Day weekend, the local economy is projected to benefit significantly, generating over $100 million through increased foot traffic in businesses. Traffic may be heavier than usual, particularly along interstates and around key event locations. The local transportation agency, MARTA, will implement crowd management measures and offer shuttle buses specifically for Dragon Con attendees.
The weather forecast for Labor Day weekend indicates mild temperatures in the low 80s, with chances of scattered showers, making it a prime time for enjoying outdoor festivities.
Key Events and Attractions
- Dragon Con: August 28 – September 1
- Free Parade: August 30, 10 a.m.
- Kids Free September: September 2 – 30
- Hispanic Heritage Month: September 15 – October 15
- Sustainable Fashion Week: September 24 – 27
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dragon Con, and when does it take place?
Dragon Con is a popular convention celebrating cosplay, superheroes, and pop culture, running from August 28 to September 1, 2025.
What are some activities available for families during Labor Day weekend?
Families can enjoy numerous activities, including the Kids Free September promotion allowing free admission to local attractions with a paying adult, festivals, and events at Zoo Atlanta.
What should visitors be aware of regarding transportation during the weekend?
Expect heavy traffic throughout the weekend, particularly around major event locations. MARTA will offer shuttle buses for Dragon Con attendees to help manage crowds.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Storms Threaten Labor Day Weekend Plans in Georgia
Atlanta Prepares for Labor Day Weekend Festivities
Atlanta Prepares for Warm and Humid Labor Day Weekend
Atlanta: A Thriving Hub for Music Innovation and Global Impact
Atlanta Celebrates Culinary and Cultural Richness in September
Dragon Con 2023 Kicks Off in Atlanta
Surge in Travel Expected for Labor Day Weekend
Atlanta Hosts the World’s Largest Black Pride Celebration
Atlanta Prepares for Busy Labor Day Weekend with Major Events
Labor Day Weekend Brings Thrilling Events to Atlanta
Additional Resources
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Things to Do Labor Day Weekend
- Wikipedia: Labor Day
- AJC: Dragon Con Labor Day Weekend
- Google Search: Atlanta Dragon Con 2025
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Labor Day Events in Atlanta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Labor Day
- WALB: Atlanta Airport Labor Day Weekend Travelers
- Google News: Atlanta Labor Day Weekend Traffic
- Patch: Labor Day 2025 Grocery Store Hours
- Google Scholar: Atlanta Events Labor Day Weekend
- Atlanta News First: Labor Day Weekend Events
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
