Festive fall events to enjoy in Metro Atlanta

Writer: Eleana Teran

October 2025 — As the city takes on the colors of the fall season, Atlanta transforms into a lively mix of creativity and fun. 

From family-friendly attractions and outdoor adventures to cultural festivals and stage performances, the metro area offers experiences that capture both the spirit of Halloween and the vibrancy of autumn. Atlanta brings the season to life with events that entertain and inspire residents and visitors alike.

In the spirit of the season, Focus: highlights some of the most anticipated fall and Halloween-inspired experiences across the metro area.

Haunted Seas at the Georgia Aquarium

Families can dive into the spirit of the season at the Georgia Aquarium’s Haunted seas, running until Nov. 2. The event transforms the world-class attraction into an underwater Halloween wonderland filled with spooky décor and themed presentations. Guests can enjoy daily dolphin and sea lion shows with a haunting twist, while the aquarium becomes a backdrop of festive surprises. Each weekend, families can join in themed crafts and scavenger hunts in the morning, then enjoy afternoon trick-or-treat fun with pirates, mermaids, and glowing stations throughout the aquarium. Costumes are encouraged! Tickets start at $44.49, with activities running daily from 9 a.m. To 6 p.m.

Click here to learn more.

Scarecrows in the Garden at the Atlanta Botanical Garden

Now in its 23rd year, Scarecrows in the Garden fills the Atlanta Botanical Garden with dozens of handcrafted creations made by local artists, schools, and local organizations. On display through Nov. 2, the exhibition celebrates local creativity as visitors explore the Garden’s fall colors. Guests can vote for their favorite scarecrow through the Visitor’s Choice Award and enjoy seasonal highlights like the Great Pumpkin-Carving Festival on Oct. 23 and Fest-of-Ale every Thursday in October.

Find more details here.

Haunted tours at the Fox Theatre

The historic Fox Theatre opens its doors for a limited run of Haunted History and Ghost Tours, inviting visitors to explore one of Atlanta’s most iconic landmarks in a new light. Visitors can hear stories from the theater’s past and learn about the artistry and design that make it a local treasure. For those seeking an extra thrill, the Ghost Tours venture deeper into the venue’s hidden spaces, from backstage corridors to the 1929 hospital room. Tours last about 60 minutes and run on select dates through Oct. 30.

For more information, click here.

A spooky lineup of art and entertainment

Atlanta’s stages come alive this season with performances that capture the spirit of Halloween and beyond. The celebration includes Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert on Nov. 1-2, as the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performs Danny Elfman’s iconic score live to the film. For theater lovers, Covenant runs through Nov. 9 at the Alliance Theatre, offering a haunting Southern Gothic story of music, myth, and ambition.

Día de Muertos Festival at Historic Oakland Cemetery

On Nov. 2, Historic Oakland Cemetery hosts its annual Día de Muertos Festival, a vibrant celebration of life and remembrance presented by the Consulate General of Mexico and the Institute of Mexican Culture. The free, family-friendly event features traditional music and folkloric dances, handmade crafts, and colorful altars honoring loved ones who have passed. Guests are encouraged to dress for the occasion and participate in the Catrinas and Catrines costume contest for adults and children. The festival runs from noon to 5 p.m. offering an afternoon of cultural and community connection.

To learn more, click here.

Want more? Read the Focus: Atlanta report.