3 Atlanta Events to Look Forward to in July

Despite the summer heat, festival season will still be going strong in July in Atlanta. With Independence Day at the top of the month, non-holiday related events don’t start to pick up until after the popular holiday. If you are looking for something to do for July 4th weekend, there are plenty of options like checking out one of the several fireworks displays or being a spectator at the Peachtree Road Race. If you prefer indoor events, you can try to snag tickets to one of the many concerts making a stop in the city.

I have to admit that in July I tend to me a bit distracted with other festivities. It is my birth month after all, and this year is a big one for me. However, I still like to squeeze in a few events when I can. This year will be no different, and I still have your best interest in mind. Blasian Bon Vivant is always looking out for you! If you are curious what things I take into consideration when searching for events that excite me, check out my post from back in March. The criteria remains the same.

Of all the events happening in July, three really piqued my interest. Read on to get the scoop on each of those events. I think you will enjoy them. One is even family-friendly!.

Ice Cream Festival

Saturday, July 22, 2023
11:00am – 6:00pm
Piedmont Park at Charles Allen Dr.
Cost: FREE
More info here

The Atlanta Ice Cream Festival is the perfect event for all ages. It is fun event that is open to everyone. If you have little ones, this is an event that will be sure to put a smile on their faces. The festival takes place over the course of 7 hours on a Saturday in Piedmont Park. You can expect to see over 85+ restaurants and pop-ups represented. And the best part is that the event is free to attend. If you plan on going, they do ask that you register though.

Given the name of the festival, there will obviously be plenty of ice cream. However, you can expect more than just sweet treats. They are promoting a well-balanced lifestyle so there will also be food and non-food vendors, live music, fitness routines, and wellness engagement activities. There will be a free health pavilion and a dedicated kids zone. Although it’s a free festival, expect to pay for goods at the vendors booths.

The best way into the Piedmont Park for the festival is to go through the Charles Allen Dr. gate. If you’ve ever driven to the park on the weekend, you know that finding parking can be a hassle. You can come early and snag a spot in one of the decks. If you street park, beware of ‘resident only’ parking zones. Alternatives to driving are rideshare, MARTA, or walking in from the Beltline.

Wine + Culture Fest

Sunday, July 23, 2023 – Sunday, July 30, 2023
4:00 – 7:00pm
Cost: $10-$525
Buy tickets here

End the month of July with the 5th annual Wine & Culture Fest. This event is a weeklong culture-curated experience celebrating Black and brown brands, winemakers, industry professionals, and wine enthusiasts. Wine & Culture Fest is presented by The Hue Society, a community-based organization committed to creating access and resources for Black, brown, and Indigenous communities while providing enriching cultural wine experiences for consumers and brands alike.

Wine & Culture Fest hosts interactive sessions from industry mavens, tastings of fan favorites and rare selections, and premiere social events that unite the entire industry. They advocate for economic inclusion and recognition by providing the community a safe space to learn and share experiences. Events will be mostly be held at the Thompson Hotel and Darwin Hotel with some social events at venues throughout Atlanta. Tickets are available now and there are several options to choose from. You can purchase tickets to individual events, but you also have the options of week passes or bundles. Check out their website for a full list of events.

This will be my first year attending the event, and I am so excited to cover the event. I first learned about it last year and had so much FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) when I saw all my wine industry friends at events having a blast. I look forward to making new connections, learning more about different wines and the industry, and just having a good ol’ time!

Attack of the Killer Tomato Festival

Sunday, July 30, 2023
1:00 – 4:00 pm
Westside Provisions District
Cost: Starting at $95
Buy tickets here

One of my favorite things about summers in Georgia is tomato season! Attack of the Killer Tomatoes Festival celebrates this beloved fruit (remember, it IS a fruit). This event is in it’s 12th year, and it is hosted by Georgia Organics and their mission is to invest in organic farmers for the health of our community and land. The festival celebrates the Farmer Champion partnership between Georgia’s organic farmers and the culinary teams who make local ingredients shine.

Several farms will be represented at the festival. Expect tasty bites & drinks from some of the city’s favorite chefs and bartenders (including recent James Beard recipient, Chef Terry Koval of The Deer & Dove). The festival will also includes live music, an auction with prizes, the annual Farmer Champion Awards ceremony, and the crowning of the best chefs and bartenders of the day. General admission and VIP tickets are available and include all your tastings and beverages. VIP gets you the benefits of early access along with access to the Forza Storico private VIP Lounge with exclusive seating, specialty beverages, luxury restrooms, and a “swag bag” upon entry.

Unfortunately, there is no on-site parking for this festival so plan to rideshare or take MARTA. But go, have a great time, and enjoy all the tomato-ey goodness!