Virginia-Highland Summerfest

Virginia-Highland Summerfest is one of Atlanta’s longest-running neighborhood festivals, turning the Virginia-Highland district into a weekend destination for art, live music, family activities, and community celebration. Produced as the annual fundraiser for the Virginia-Highland Civic Association, the festival supports neighborhood improvement efforts, public spaces, and community programming while showcasing one of Atlanta’s most popular intown districts.

Current Year Update

The 2026 Virginia-Highland Summerfest is scheduled for Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7, 2026. The official site lists the 5K Road Race at 8 a.m. and the Tot Trot at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, followed by the Artist Market, festival, music, and KidZone from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Sunday, the Artist Market, festival, music, and KidZone run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The site also lists a Saturday Summerfest Block Party at the corner of North Highland and Virginia from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

What to Expect

Summerfest typically features a large artist and makers market, live music, food and beverage vendors, and family-friendly activities. For 2026, the official site promotes more than 200 artist and maker vendors, a KidZone with multiple water slides, live music at North Highland and Virginia, a beverage garden in John Howell Park, curated food vendors, and the long-running 5K.

Location

The festival takes place in Atlanta’s Virginia-Highland neighborhood along Virginia Avenue between North Highland Avenue and Park Drive. The footprint includes John Howell Park and Virginia-Highland Elementary School, creating a walkable festival setting in the heart of the neighborhood.

Hours or Schedule Highlights

Saturday, June 6: 5K Road Race at 8 a.m.; Tot Trot at 8:30 a.m.; Artist Market, festival, music, and KidZone from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Summerfest Block Party from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday, June 7: Artist Market, festival, music, and KidZone from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission and Policies

General festival admission is free, though select elements such as the 5K require registration. Street closures and limited parking are typical, so walking, biking, rideshare, or public transit are usually the easiest ways to attend. Check the official website for final event guidance and day-of logistics.

Why It Matters

Summerfest is more than a neighborhood street festival: it is the Virginia-Highland Civic Association’s major annual fundraiser and a longstanding showcase for the neighborhood’s identity, public spaces, and business district. Its blend of arts, music, recreation, and civic purpose has made it a fixture of Atlanta’s summer festival calendar for decades.

Visit the official Virginia-Highland Summerfest website for updates.