By Kelley Musson

The great thing about Atlanta, is that it offers an array of festivals year-round. Whether you’re a foodie, or an adventurer, or simply looking to enjoy the city a little more here are a few of the best fall festivals this year:

Fall in Atlanta isn’t just about cooler weather and colorful leaves – it’s also prime time for foodies to indulge in the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Whether you’re craving barbecue, international eats, or classic Southern comfort food, there’s a festival for you. Here are some of the best fall food festivals in Atlanta, complete with insider tips to make the most of your visit.

1. Taste of Atlanta

When: Mid-October
Where: Historic Fourth Ward Park
Website: tasteofatlanta.com

Taste of Atlanta is the city’s premier food festival, showcasing dishes from over 50 of Atlanta’s best restaurants. It’s a foodie’s dream, with everything from gourmet sliders to vegan delicacies. Your entry ticket includes access to the festival, but tasting tickets are required to sample the dishes. Pro tip: Purchase your tasting tickets in advance – they can sell out quickly!

Be sure to try the smoked wings from local favorite Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q and the decadent lobster rolls from BeetleCat. Don’t forget to save room for dessert – Sublime Doughnuts often makes an appearance with their signature Nutella-filled treats. Between bites, you can catch live cooking demos or groove to live music under the fall sky.

2. Atlanta Kosher BBQ Festival

When: Late October
Where: Brook Run Park, Dunwoody
Website: theatlantakosherbbq.com

Love barbecue? The Atlanta Kosher BBQ Festival puts a unique spin on this Southern staple by adhering to kosher dietary laws. Admission is free, but food is pay-as-you-go, so bring your appetite and a little extra cash.

Expect tender brisket, smoky ribs, and perfectly grilled chicken – all kosher, of course. While you’re there, check out the pickle-eating contest and grab a side of creamy coleslaw or baked beans to complete your plate. This family-friendly event also features a kid’s zone, making it perfect for all ages.

3. Little Five Points Halloween Festival and Parade

When: Late October
Where: Little Five Points
Website: l5phalloween.com

While technically a Halloween festival, this iconic event in Atlanta’s bohemian Little Five Points neighborhood also doubles as a foodie haven. Admission to the festival is free, but you’ll want to bring cash or cards for the incredible street food vendors.

Local favorites like The Vortex are known to pop up with their legendary burgers, while you’ll also find unique bites like jerk chicken tacos and fried Oreos. Pair your snacks with a cold craft beer from one of the local breweries in attendance. And of course, the people-watching here is unmatched – costumes are encouraged!

4. Cabbagetown Chomp and Stomp Chili Cook-Off

When: Early November
Where: Cabbagetown
Website: chompandstomp.com

If you’re a chili enthusiast, the Cabbagetown Chomp and Stomp is your must-visit fall festival. This beloved neighborhood event features a chili cook-off where you can sample dozens of creative chili recipes. Tickets are just $10 for a tasting spoon, giving you access to all the chili your heart desires.

Local chefs and amateur cooks alike compete for the top prize, so you’ll taste everything from classic beef chili to adventurous vegetarian and even seafood variations. Wash it all down with a craft beer while enjoying live bluegrass music. The festival also includes an artists’ market and a 5K race if you want to burn off those calories.

5. Atlanta Greek Festival

When: Late September to Early October
Where: Greek Orthodox Cathedral, North Druid Hills
Website: atlantagreekfestival.org

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean at the Atlanta Greek Festival. Admission is typically around $5, and once inside, you can purchase tasting tickets to sample the incredible lineup of Greek cuisine.

Highlights include juicy lamb gyros, flaky spanakopita, and honey-drenched baklava. Don’t miss the loukoumades (Greek doughnuts) – they’re fried to golden perfection and drizzled with honey and cinnamon. Enjoy your meal while watching traditional Greek dancing, and be sure to stock up on imported olive oil and pastries to take home.

6. Grant Park Halloween Lantern Parade and Festival

When: Late October
Where: Grant Park
Website: grantpark.org

The Grant Park Halloween Lantern Parade isn’t just about glowing costumes and creative floats – it’s also a fantastic spot for fall eats. Admission is free, and food trucks line the park offering everything from gourmet grilled cheese to spicy Korean barbecue.

Try the brisket nachos from Sweet Auburn BBQ or grab a seasonal pumpkin beer from a local brewery. This event is great for families, with plenty of activities for kids, including face painting and lantern-making workshops.

7. Porches and Pies Festival

When: Mid-October
Where: Adair Park
Website: porchesandpies.com

Pie lovers, rejoice! The Porches and Pies Festival in Adair Park is the perfect way to spend a crisp fall afternoon. Admission is free, and tasting tickets are available for purchase to sample a variety of sweet and savory pies. Local bakers and restaurants bring their A-game with pies featuring flavors like bourbon pecan, classic apple, and even creative options like tomato-basil.

While you’re there, enjoy live music, shop at the local artisan market, and take a stroll through the historic Adair Park neighborhood. Be sure to vote for your favorite pie in the People’s Choice contest!

Tips for Enjoying Atlanta’s Fall Food Festivals

• Arrive early: Popular festivals like Taste of Atlanta and the Chomp and Stomp can get crowded fast.

• Bring cash and cards: Some vendors are cash-only, while others take cards.

• Plan your parking: Many festivals offer shuttles or suggest ridesharing due to limited parking.

• Come hungry: With so many delicious options, you’ll want to sample as much as possible!