The annual AthFest Music & Arts Festival is set to return for its 27th edition this summer in downtown Athens, Georgia. Spanning from June 20 to June 22, the event promises an exciting lineup of performances across various venues, along with family-friendly activities such as KidsFest. All proceeds will support AthFest Educates, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing music and arts education for K-12 students in Athens-Clarke County. The festival includes free outdoor stages, a two-night club crawl featuring local spots, and a vibrant artist market showcasing handmade crafts. This year’s event aims to bring together residents and visitors alike for a weekend filled with live music, delicious food, and community engagement.
Details of the Festivities
In the heart of Athens, during the lively days of late June, the AthFest Music & Arts Festival will unfold over three dynamic days. Presented by Wicked Weed Brewing, the festival kicks off on Friday evening with performances at multiple locations, including the Mainstage powered by Wicked Weed. Here, audiences can enjoy sets by Florence Cardigan, Commüne, and T Hardy Morris among others. Saturday expands the musical journey further, introducing acts like Bea Porges, Petty Kash, Kimberly Morgan York, and Bubba Sparxxx, while Sunday wraps up with Tropical Breeze Steel Band, Smokey Jones, and The Vegabonds.
Beyond the main stages, several local venues host intimate shows. At Hendershot's, Kenosha Kid performs on Friday, followed by Zach Ritter and the Eternal Soup on Saturday. Ciné offers edgy rock sounds with La Suegra on Friday and ENOX on Saturday. For those seeking electronic beats, Nightshade DJs take over Live Wire Athens on Saturday night. Special events include the Gospel Brunch on Saturday morning, Voices of Athens—a spoken word showcase—and a screening of "Weirdo" accompanied by a live performance from Five Eight at Ciné on Thursday.
Throughout the weekend, families can participate in KidsFest, where young performers entertain their peers. Meanwhile, JokerJokerTV broadcasts exclusive content featuring interviews and music videos from participating artists. Club Crawl passes grant access to all venue shows, while VIP Weekend passes offer premium experiences, including reserved seating and exclusive viewing areas.
From a journalist's perspective, AthFest exemplifies how festivals can foster cultural enrichment within communities. It not only supports educational initiatives but also strengthens local economies through tourism and business patronage. By celebrating diversity in genres and talents, it inspires both creators and attendees to embrace creativity and collaboration. Such events remind us that art has the power to unite people across backgrounds, creating lasting memories and shared joy.