HBCU football rivalry brings bands, alumni, and school pride to downtown
Keith Sweat, Joe, and more deliver a night of slow jams and timeless anthems at State Farm Arena
Afrobeats star ASAKE brings his globally celebrated sound to Downtown ATL.
Source: Jeremy Poland / Getty
Atlanta doesn’t do quiet weekends, and the last stretch of August proves it. From an HBCU football showdown at Center Parc Stadium to R&B legends taking the stage at State Farm Arena, the city and its surrounding metro are packed with ways to celebrate, connect, and explore.
Check out some of the events going down in the city this weekend, Aug. 29-30.
AUGUST 29
MEAC/SWAC Challenge: Alabama A&M vs Howard
Location: Center Parc Stadium, Downtown
Category: Sports
Description: Two storied HBCU programs face off in a matchup that brings bands, alumni, and school pride to Downtown.
Logistics: Ticketed
Tip: This is a full-day experience—come for the game, stay for the tailgates and the battle of the bands.
Atlanta United vs Charlotte FC
Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Category: Sports
Description: The Five Stripes host a Southern rivalry showdown in front of one of the loudest crowds in Major League Soccer.
Logistics: Ticketed
The R&B Lovers Tour: Keith Sweat, Joe, Dru Hill, Ginuwine, and Kut Klose
Location: State Farm Arena
Category: Live Music
Description: A powerhouse lineup of R&B legends delivers a night of slow jams and timeless anthems.
Logistics: Ticketed
Tip: This one is likely to sell out—secure your tickets in advance and plan for Downtown parking or MARTA.
From The Ashes: The Birth and Rise of Hip Hop
Location: 7 Stages Theatre, Little Five Points
Category: Theater & Performing Arts
Description: A dynamic stage production tracing the origins and cultural impact of hip-hop.
Logistics: Ticketed
AUGUST 30
Vegan Life Festival
Location: Life Space Hope & Wellness, 294 Hamilton E Holmes Dr NW
Category: Food & Drink/Festivals
Description: Plant-based eats, wellness vendors, and a welcoming crowd make this a must for the veg-curious and committed alike.
Logistics: Ticketed
ASAKE: In God We Trust World Tour
Location: State Farm Arena
Category: Live Music
Description: The Afrobeats superstar brings his globally celebrated sound to Downtown Atlanta for an unforgettable night.
Logistics: Ticketed
Tip: Afrobeats shows are as much about the energy as the music—dress to dance and get there early to feel the full crowd vibe.
Atlanta Braves vs. Colorado Rockies
Location: Truist Park at The Battery Atlanta
Category: Sports
Description: Catch America’s pastime as the Braves host the Giants, with The Battery buzzing before and after the game.
Logistics: Ticketed
Tip: Arrive early to enjoy The Battery’s restaurants and bars—it’s a full day of entertainment beyond the ballpark.
TOUR Championship – Saturday & Sunday
Location: East Lake Golf Club, East Lake
Category: Sports
Description: The final round crowns a champion as the PGA TOUR wraps its season in Atlanta.
Logistics: Ticketed
Tip: Sunday is the marquee day—expect big crowds and plan your arrival and transportation accordingly.
