5 Things to Do in Athens, GA This Weekend | November 6–8, 2026
Looking for something to do in Athens this weekend? Fall is in full swing, and there's plenty happening around town beyond football!
From a historic fall festival and local artisan markets to a peaceful hike and a chance to step back into the 1800s, this weekend has a little something for everyone.
Whether you're looking to shop local, spend time outdoors, or discover something new about Athens, here are five events worth adding to your calendar for November 6–8.
1. Celebrate Fall Festival at Taylor-Grady House
Saturday, November 7 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Taylor-Grady House
634 Prince Avenue, Athens
If you love historic homes, local artisans, and all things fall, this one deserves a spot on your Saturday plans.
The beautiful Taylor-Grady House is hosting its annual Fall Festival, bringing together local artists, traditional craftspeople, culinary vendors, and live entertainment.
Visitors can browse handmade goods and watch demonstrations from woodworkers, papermakers, textile artists, soap and candle makers, and other talented craftspeople.
There will also be an art show and a preview of upcoming heritage programs at the historic property.
It's a great opportunity to support local makers while spending time at one of Athens' historic landmarks.
Cost: Free admission and parking.
Good to know: The event is open to all ages, and no paid ticket is required.
2. Fall Artisan Market at Oak House Distillery
Saturday & Sunday, November 7–8 | 2:00–6:00 PM Both Days
Oak House Distillery & Speakeasy
1015 Macon Highway, Athens
Here's a fun way to spend a fall afternoon!
Oak House Distillery is hosting a two-day Fall Artisan Market featuring local vendors, handmade goods, live music, and raffles.
You can browse unique items from local makers, enjoy the atmosphere, and sip on one of Oak House's handcrafted cocktails while you're there.
If you've never visited Oak House, it's worth checking out. The property has a beautiful setting, a welcoming outdoor space, and a speakeasy that's a fun little discovery of its own.
And with the holidays approaching, this is a great excuse to get a head start on shopping local.
Cost: No general market admission fee is listed. Food, drinks, and vendor purchases are separate.
Good to know: No advance reservation requirement is listed for the market.
3. Fall Dodd Market at UGA
Friday, November 6 | Noon–6:00 PM
Lamar Dodd School of Art
270 River Road, Athens
If you enjoy discovering local artists and finding one-of-a-kind pieces, don't miss the Fall Dodd Market.
This student-run event features work from more than 100 University of Georgia student artists, giving them an opportunity to showcase and sell their creations.
Expect a variety of original artwork, including ceramics, jewelry, paintings, prints, textiles, and other handmade items.
The market takes place in the atrium and courtyard of the Lamar Dodd School of Art, making it a fun stop whether you're shopping for something special or simply want to see what Athens' emerging artists are creating.
There's also food and live music planned, so you can make an afternoon of it.
Cost: Free admission. Artwork and other purchases are priced separately.
Good to know: No advance registration is required for shoppers.
4. Silent Hike at Sandy Creek Park
Saturday, November 7 | 3:00–5:00 PM
Sandy Creek Park
400 Bob Holman Road, Athens
Sometimes the best weekend plans are the ones that let you slow down a little.
Sandy Creek Park is hosting a guided Silent Hike, giving participants an opportunity to enjoy nature without the usual conversations and distractions.
Instead, the focus is on the sounds of the woods, the changing fall scenery, and simply being present outdoors.
If you've been wanting to get outside and enjoy the cooler weather, this sounds like a peaceful way to spend a Saturday afternoon.
And with the fall colors making their appearance around Northeast Georgia, it's a beautiful time to explore our local parks.
Cost: The program is free. Check with the park regarding any standard admission fee.
Good to know: Advance registration is required, and space may be limited.
Registration Through Athens-Clarke County Leisure Services
5. 1800s Athens: A Living History Experience
Sunday, November 8 | 2:00–5:00 PM
Historic Athens Welcome Center
280 E. Dougherty Street, Athens
Ever wondered what life in Athens looked like more than 200 years ago?
This free community event offers a chance to experience the city's early history through traditional crafts, live demonstrations, music, and hands-on activities.
Visitors can meet a blacksmith, learn about historic textiles and quilting, explore traditional toys and games, and discover the trades and customs that shaped early Athens.
The afternoon also includes West African drumming, music, and a West African dance lesson scheduled for 3:30 PM.
It's a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the people, traditions, and stories that helped shape the Athens community.
Cost: Free admission.
Good to know: RSVPs are encouraged. On-site parking is limited, but street parking is free on Sundays.
A Few More Weekend Ideas
If you're looking for even more things to do around Athens, here are a few additional events worth checking out.
Athens Farmers Market
Saturday, November 7 | 8:00 AM–Noon
Bishop Park | 705 Sunset Drive, Athens
Shop local produce, baked goods, flowers, prepared foods, and handmade products from Athens-area farmers and makers.
Cost: Free admission.
Naturalist's Walk at Sandy Creek Nature Center
Saturday, November 7 | 10:00–11:00 AM
205 Old Commerce Road, Athens
Join nature center staff for a guided walk to explore the changing seasons and discover what's happening in the natural world around Athens.
Cost: Free.
Good to know: Advance registration is listed for this session.
Family Day: The Science of Art
Saturday, November 7 | 10:00 AM–Noon
Georgia Museum of Art | 90 Carlton Street, Athens
Families can explore the connection between art and science through gallery activities and a hands-on art project to take home.
Cost: Free.
Good to know: Free tickets can be reserved in advance or requested on arrival, subject to availability.
Red Bull Chariot Race
Saturday, November 7 | 1:00–6:00 PM
Downtown Athens | East Clayton Street & College Avenue
Looking for something completely different? Teams will compete in creative, homemade, human-powered chariots in downtown Athens.
This might be one of the most unusual events on the calendar this weekend!
Good to know: Check the event organizer for spectator information and any admission requirements.
Make the Most of the Weekend in Athens
One of my favorite things about living in Athens is that there's always something interesting happening, and you don't have to spend a fortune to enjoy it.
This weekend, you can browse artwork from UGA students on Friday, spend Saturday exploring a historic fall festival or shopping local artisans, take a quiet walk through the woods, and wrap up Sunday learning about Athens' history.
That's a pretty good weekend if you ask me!
Whether you've lived here for years, recently moved to the area, or are thinking about making Athens or Northeast Georgia your next home, there's always something new to discover.
I'll keep sharing local events, outdoor adventures, food finds, and places worth exploring in my weekly Picks for the Weekend.
See you around Athens!
Leah Leggett
Athens & Northeast Georgia Realtor® | Associate Broker
Greater Athens Properties
Sharing real estate, local life, and the places that make Athens feel like home.
Please note: Event times, pricing, and registration availability may change. Check with event organizers before heading out.
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