5 Things to Do in Athens, GA This Weekend | October 2–4, 2026

October is officially here, and Athens isn’t wasting any time getting into the season.

This weekend brings a fun mix of outdoor activities, local traditions, fall events, and a few spooky options around town. If you’re looking for something to do in Athens October 2–4, here are five events worth checking out.

1. Fright on the Firefly

Friday, October 2 | 5:30–7:00 PM
Firefly Trail near Winterville

Kick off October with a slightly spooky walk along the Firefly Trail.

Families are encouraged to dress up and enjoy a Halloween-themed trick-or-treat experience along the trail. It’s a fun, low-key way to get into the season without committing to a full haunted attraction.

Cost: Free
Good to know: Participation is limited to 200 people, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Parking is available at 605 Spring Valley Road, and carpooling is encouraged because space is limited.

2. Friday Night Paddle at Sandy Creek Park

Friday, October 2 | 6:30–8:30 PM
Sandy Creek Park
400 Bob Holman Road, Athens

If you’d rather spend Friday evening outdoors, this is one of the more unique events happening this weekend.

The Friday Night Paddle gives you a chance to get out on Lake Chapman after hours and enjoy the park from the water.

You can bring your own boat or register for a kayak.

Cost:
Bring your own boat: $5 for Athens-Clarke County residents / $7.50 for non-residents
Kayak option: $10 for residents / $15 for non-residents

Good to know: Ages 5 and up. Advance online registration is required.

3. UGA Homecoming Parade

Friday, October 2 | 6:00–7:00 PM
Downtown Athens

It doesn’t get much more Athens than Homecoming weekend.

The annual UGA Homecoming Parade rolls through downtown Friday evening with floats, spirit groups, and plenty of Bulldog energy.

Whether you’re a longtime local, a UGA alum, or just want to experience the atmosphere downtown, this is a great way to start the weekend.

Cost: Free
Good to know: Expect downtown to be busier than usual, so allow extra time for parking.

4. Athens Farmers Market

Saturday, October 3 | 8:00 AM–Noon
Bishop Park
705 Sunset Drive, Athens

Saturday morning is always a good time to stop by the Athens Farmers Market.

You’ll find local produce, prepared foods, handmade goods, live music, and community vendors, making it an easy stop if you want to grab breakfast, shop local, or just wander for a while.

Cost: Free to attend
Good to know: No reservation required.

Bonus Outdoor Pick: Tallassee Forest Bird Walk

If you want to make Saturday morning a little more active, the Oconee River Land Trust is also hosting a guided bird walk at Tallassee Forest from 8:30–10:00 AM.

The walk is free, but advance registration is required.

5. Zombie Farms Haunted Trail

Saturday, October 3 | 8:00–11:00 PM
Zombie Farms
568 Smithonia Road, Winterville

If you’re ready for something scarier, Zombie Farms is officially back for the season.

The haunted trail stretches roughly three-quarters of a mile through dark wooded areas with actors, themed scenes, and plenty of jump scares along the way.

This weekend marks opening weekend for the 2026 season.

Tickets: Starting around $33+
Good to know: The attraction continues Friday and Saturday nights through early November. Advance ticket purchase is recommended.

A Few More Weekend Ideas

If none of those quite fit your plans, there are a few other local options worth checking out:

• Naturalist’s Walk at Sandy Creek Nature Center

• Marigold Farmers Market at Pittard Park in Winterville

• Reptile & Exotic Market at Foxglove Plantbar

Make the Most of the Weekend

One of the best things about living in Athens is that there’s always something happening beyond the obvious concerts and football games.

From paddling Lake Chapman to walking the Firefly Trail or heading downtown for Homecoming, there are plenty of ways to get out and enjoy the area this weekend.

I’ll keep sharing my favorite local events, outdoor activities, food finds, and things worth putting on your calendar each week.

If you’re thinking about moving to Athens or Northeast Georgia, or you just want to discover more of what makes this area such a great place to live, follow along.