5 Things to Do in Athens, GA This Weekend | September 25–27, 2026

Looking for something to do in Athens this weekend?

From an outdoor movie and an early-morning bird walk to hiking, paddling, bugs, and a laid-back Sunday jam session, there are some really fun local events happening around Athens September 25–27.

Here are five worth adding to your weekend plans.

1. Outdoor Caterpillar Movie Night

Friday, September 25 | 7:00–9:30 PM
State Botanical Garden of Georgia
2450 S. Milledge Avenue, Athens

Start the weekend outside at the State Botanical Garden with a screening of The Extraordinary Caterpillar on the lawn of the Discovery and Inspiration Garden.

It’s a fun option if you want something a little different from the usual Friday-night dinner or downtown plans, and you get to enjoy the Garden after hours.

Cost: Free
Good to know: Advance registration is required.

2. Fall Bird Ramble

Saturday, September 26 | 8:00–10:00 AM
State Botanical Garden of Georgia

If you don’t mind an early start, this is one of the more unique things happening around Athens this weekend.

The Oconee Rivers Audubon Society will lead a morning walk through the Botanical Garden looking and listening for fall migratory birds.

You definitely don’t need to be an experienced birder. Beginners are welcome, and experienced participants will help with identification along the way.

Bring binoculars if you have them and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Cost: Free
Good to know: Open to the public.

3. Lakeside Trail Hike & Paddle Adventure

Saturday, September 26 | 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Sandy Creek Park & Lake Chapman
400 Bob Holman Road, Athens

If you’d rather spend Saturday moving, this may be my favorite pick of the weekend.

The day starts with an approximately five-mile hike along sections of Sandy Creek Park’s Lakeside Trail, followed by a paddle across Lake Chapman and a picnic lunch with park staff.

You can bring your own boat or register for the single-kayak option.

It’s a great way to spend several hours outside without having to leave Athens.

Ages: 14+
Cost: $15 for Athens-Clarke County residents / $20 for non-residents
Good to know: Advance online registration is required.

4. 36th Annual Insectival

Sunday, September 27 | 11:30 AM–3:30 PM
State Botanical Garden of Georgia

Yes, Insectival is exactly what it sounds like.

The Botanical Garden’s annual insect festival is back for its 36th year with opportunities to see insects up close, learn more about the tiny creatures living around us, and take part in family-friendly activities throughout the afternoon.

It’s especially good if you’re looking for something different to do with kids on Sunday.

Cost: $5 per person or $20 per family
Children 2 and under are free.

Good to know: Tickets are available at the door, and the Botanical Garden is cashless.

5. Sandy Creek Hootenanny

Sunday, September 27 | 2:00–4:00 PM
Sandy Creek Park
400 Bob Holman Road, Athens

End the weekend with something very low-key and very local.

The Sandy Creek Hootenanny is a casual campfire-style open jam session where you can bring an instrument, sing along, or simply show up and listen.

All ages and experience levels are welcome, so you definitely don’t have to be a musician to enjoy it.

Cost: Free
Good to know: Online registration is available.

A Couple More Weekend Ideas

If you’re already out Saturday morning, the Athens Farmers Market at Bishop Park runs from 8:00 AM to noon with local farms, food vendors, makers, and live music.

There’s also a Bring Back Your Backyard: Invasive Removal 101 workshop at Ben Burton Park Saturday from 9:00–11:00 AM for anyone interested in gardening, native landscapes, or learning how to identify and remove invasive plants.

Before You Head Out

If you’re visiting the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, be aware that visitors are currently being directed to a new entrance located slightly farther south on South Milledge Avenue, so give yourself a few extra minutes the first time you go.

Event details can change, so I always recommend checking with the organizer before heading out, especially for outdoor events.

See You Around Athens

One of my favorite things about living in Athens is that there’s almost always something happening beyond the obvious concerts and football weekends.

Each week, I’m sharing a few local events, outdoor plans, food finds, and things actually worth putting on your calendar.

If you’re thinking about moving to Athens — or you already live here and just want more ideas for enjoying it — follow along for more local favorites, weekend plans, and Northeast Georgia discoveries.