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Where to eat, sip and celebrate in metro Atlanta this August

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/02 .. -and-celebrate-in-metro-atlanta-this-august.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, September 2nd 2025 at 6:45 GMT by Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Wine‑Tasting Fever: Metro Atlanta’s August Festival Calendar

As the heat of July gives way to August, the Metro Atlanta area turns into a vibrant wine‑lover’s playground. A cluster of festivals, pop‑up tastings, and vineyard‑run events spread across the region invites locals and visitors alike to sample everything from bold reds to crisp whites and sparkling wines. The article “Wine Tastings and Festivals Abound This August in Metro Atlanta” on The Atlanta Journal‑Constitution outlines a week‑long itinerary that captures the best of Georgia’s growing wine scene. Below is a concise recap of the most notable happenings, dates, venues, and what you can expect at each event.

1. Georgia Wine Festival – Atlanta (August 3–5)

Location: 1201 Peachtree Street, Atlanta
What’s Happening: The flagship Georgia Wine Festival brings together more than 30 local wineries, each showcasing their signature wines in a downtown setting. The festival is structured into three “tasting zones”: (1) Classic American reds, (2) Innovative blends from boutique vineyards, and (3) a sparkling section featuring Prosecco, Brut, and the region’s own sparkling wines. Aside from wine, the event offers live jazz, a food truck line featuring farm‑to‑table fare, and a “Meet the Winemaker” corner where guests can chat with the vintners.

2. Piedmont Park Wine & Food Night – Atlanta (August 12)

Location: Piedmont Park, Atlanta
What’s Happening: A twilight evening on the park’s lawn that pairs free wine tastings (sourced from local vineyards) with a curated menu of seasonal appetizers. The highlight is the “Blind Tasting” challenge where participants guess the varietal and region of each bottle while enjoying live acoustic music. The event also includes a “DIY Wine Blend” station where guests can mix two wines under the guidance of a sommelier.

3. Folly River Vineyards Summer Splash – Doraville (August 18–19)

Location: 5000 Oakwood Road, Doraville
What’s Happening: Folly River’s signature summer event features a two‑day series of guided vineyard tours, a “Wine & Cheese Pairing” workshop, and an interactive “Wine Blending” station. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic area with live country music and a kids’ corner offering grape‑themed arts and crafts.

4. Blue Ridge Wine Trail Day‑Trip (August 23)

Location: Blue Ridge, GA (approx. 2 hrs from Atlanta)
What’s Happening: Although outside the metro perimeter, the Blue Ridge Wine Trail draws a sizable Atlanta crowd each August. The day‑trip offers a shuttle from Atlanta to the Blue Ridge area, with stops at three renowned wineries (e.g., Black Rock, Gurgel, and Blue Ridge Vineyard). Each stop includes a 20‑minute guided tasting and a free glass of the winery’s flagship wine. Food trucks serve Southern‑style barbecue and fresh fruit parfaits.

5. Atlanta International Wine & Food Festival – Piedmont Park (August 27–29)

Location: Piedmont Park, Atlanta
What’s Happening: This flagship event spans three days, featuring more than 120 wine‑related vendors from the U.S. and abroad. Tastings cover all wine categories—reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling. A “Wine Masterclass” series runs nightly, offering in‑depth looks at the fermentation process and the terroir that defines each region. The festival’s “Kids & Wine” corner gives parents a chance to enjoy the adult offerings while the children partake in grape‑themed activities.

6. Southside Wine & Craft Beer Festival – Decatur (August 30–31)

Location: Decatur Square, Decatur
What’s Happening: This hybrid festival pairs local wineries with craft breweries. The event highlights cross‑regional pairings, such as a barrel‑aged stout served alongside a robust Bordeaux‑style blend. Live blues and a vintage‑car show provide entertainment while a “Wine & Cheese” tasting table offers artisanal pairings.

Thematic Highlights

• Educational Sessions: Several events include guided tastings led by sommeliers and winemakers. Participants receive a “cheat sheet” on tasting techniques, terroir nuances, and how to read a wine label.
• Family‑Friendly Activities: Kids’ corners at the Georgia Wine Festival and the Blue Ridge Wine Trail ensure that children can enjoy the festivities—complete with grape‑themed coloring books and “taste‑the‑fruit” tastings (sweet grapes and fruit juices).
• Special Pairings: A recurring feature in August is the focus on pairing wines with local Southern cuisine—from shrimp and grits to peach cobbler and barbecue.

Practical Tips for Attendees

1. Plan Your Itinerary: With so many overlapping events, map out your preferred tasting zones ahead of time. Many events allow you to pre‑register for certain tastings, especially the “Blind Tasting” at Piedmont Park.
2. Transportation: Many festivals are located in busy downtown or suburban areas. Consider using rideshare services or public transit to avoid parking headaches.
3. Stay Hydrated: The August heat in Atlanta can be intense. Carry a reusable water bottle and take breaks at shaded areas or the event’s cooler stations.
4. Dress Appropriately: Comfortable shoes are essential—especially for vineyard walks. Light, breathable clothing and a hat or sunglasses are recommended for outdoor venues.

In Summary

August is a liquid gold month for Atlanta wine enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or a curious newbie, the region’s lineup—from the bustling Georgia Wine Festival to the intimate Folly River Vineyards Summer Splash—offers something for every palate. These events celebrate Georgia’s burgeoning wine culture, spotlight local producers, and create a communal space for food, wine, and music. If you’re planning a trip or a local escapade, be sure to check the exact times, RSVP requirements, and ticket prices, as some of the more popular tastings can sell out quickly. Raise a glass to an August full of new discoveries, regional flavors, and memorable vineyard adventures.