Weekend Events (May 8-10, 2026) From the Grand Opening of The Boardwalk and Sandy Springs Lantern Parade to the AAPI VibeFest and Moonlight Markets

The upcoming weekend of May 8 through May 10, 2026, represents a significant cultural pivot for the North Atlanta suburbs as the region transitions into the full bloom of late spring and the commencement of the outdoor festival season. Across the interconnected municipalities of North Fulton, South Forsyth, and Northern Gwinnett—including Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Roswell, Milton, Cumming, Suwanee, and Duluth—residents will find a curated landscape of community celebrations emphasizing local artistry, public infrastructure milestones, and diverse musical offerings.

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Alpharetta

Alpharetta Moonlight Market

The return of the Alpharetta Moonlight Market for the 2026 season marks a sophisticated shift in the traditional street market format. Specifically curated to exclude mass-produced items, the market mandates that all work be handcrafted, aligning with the high-end retail environment of the Alpharetta City Center. For 2026, the market has introduced limited acceptance of pre-packaged, quick-serve food items, further integrating the culinary arts into the retail mix.

• Day: Friday
• Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Location: Alpharetta City Center (N Broad St & Market Street)
• Price: Free admission
• Website: https://www.eventeny.com/events/alpharettamoonlightmarket-26236/
• Who is it for: For art collectors and those who enjoy vibrant nighttime strolls through boutique markets

On the Green Concert Series: Reckless

The Alpharetta Rotary Club continues its legacy of providing free, high-quality entertainment on the Town Green with the featured band, Reckless. Known for a high-energy repertoire that appeals to a multi-generational audience, the band performs in a setting designed for picnic blankets and lawn chairs. Its proximity to over 30 chef-driven restaurants makes it a primary driver for the local hospitality sector.

• Day: Friday
• Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Music begins at 6:00 PM)
• Location: Alpharetta Town Green, 2 Park Plaza
• Price: Free admission
• Website: https://www.awesomealpharetta.com/event/on-the-green-alpharetta-concert-series-presented-by-the-alpharetta-rotary-club-9/2026-05-08/
• Who is it for: Families and social groups looking for a classic outdoor musical evening

Riley Green – Cowboy As It Gets Tour

The Ameris Bank Amphitheatre hosts country music star Riley Green as part of a national tour featuring guests like Justin Moore and Drake White. This performance represents the “large-scale” tier of Alpharetta’s entertainment strategy, attracting attendees from across the broader Metro Atlanta area. The lineup also includes emerging talent Hannah McFarland.

• Day: Friday
• Time: 7:00 PM – 11:30 PM
• Location: Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, 2200 Encore Parkway
• Price: Ticketed (Prices vary by section)
• Website: https://www.awesomealpharetta.com/calendar/
• Who is it for: Country music enthusiasts and fans of large-scale stadium performances

Alpharetta Farmers Market

A cornerstone of the Saturday morning routine, this market provides a vital direct-to-consumer link for local farms as spring produce reaches its peak. Located on the Town Green, the market allows for a leisurely experience where attendees can easily transition from shopping to exploring the permanent retail shops and cafes lining the plaza.

• Day: Saturday
• Time: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
• Location: Alpharetta Town Green, 2 Park Plaza
• Price: Free admission
• Website: https://www.alpharetta.ga.us/522/City-Events
• Who is it for: Home cooks, foodies, and families enjoying a leisurely Saturday morning

Alpharetta Symphony Youth Orchestra Mother’s Day Concert

The Alpharetta Symphony Youth Orchestra (ASYO) offers a free Mother’s Day performance that serves as a showcase for high-level local musical education. The concert is held at the Innovation Academy, a venue that symbolizes the city’s investment in future talent.

• Day: Sunday
• Time: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
• Location: Innovation Academy, 125 Milton Ave.
• Price: Free admission
• Website: https://www.awesomealpharetta.com/calendar/
• Who is it for: Families celebrating Mother’s Day through orchestral music

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Johns Creek

Boardwalk at Town Center Grand Opening & Summer Concert

This weekend marks a milestone for Johns Creek with the formal activation of The Boardwalk at Town Center, a key component of the city’s Master Plan. The grand opening celebration includes a ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by performances from “Music Authority’s Eclipse” and the “Boy Band Review”. The park provides a scenic, walkable environment connecting residents to local wetlands.

• Day: Friday
• Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Location: The Boardwalk at Town Center, 11360 Lakefield Drive
• Price: Free admission
• Website: https://visitjohnscreek.com/events/boardwalk-at-town-center-grand-opening-summer-concert/
• Who is it for: Residents celebrating new city infrastructure and fans of high-energy pop music

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Roswell

Music on the Hill: Dock Rock Radio

Held on the expansive lawn of Roswell City Hall, this month’s installment of the traditional summer concert series features “Dock Rock Radio”. The band specializes in smooth, melodic soft rock from the 70s and 80s. The event is highly social, with residents often bringing elaborate picnic setups to enjoy the sunset.

• Day: Friday
• Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Location: Roswell City Hall Lawn
• Price: Free admission
• Website: https://roswell365.com/
• Who is it for: Neighbors and families looking for a relaxed outdoor social environment

Family Canoe Day at Chattahoochee Nature Center

Designed for beginners and families with children as young as five, this program focuses on basic paddling techniques and equipment safety on Beaver Pond. The ticket price includes CNC admission, allowing families to explore wildlife exhibits and boardwalks for the rest of the day.

• Day: Saturday
• Time: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
• Location: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road
• Price: General Public: $25; CNC Members: $12.50
• Website: https://www.visitroswellga.com/events/family-canoe-day-1/
• Who is it for: Families with young children and individuals new to canoeing

Bloom: Bouquets & Brunch

The Mill Kitchen and Bar hosts a specialized Mother’s Day event that combines the region’s strong brunch culture with a floral design workshop. Mothers and their families can create custom arrangements while enjoying a seasonally inspired menu. This hybrid event reflects a growing demand for experiential dining in North Fulton.

• Day: Sunday
• Time: 11:30 AM
• Location: The Mill Kitchen and Bar, 590 Mimosa Blvd.
• Price: Ticketed
• Website: https://www.themillkitchenandbar.com/
• Who is it for: Mothers and families looking for a creative and sophisticated holiday celebration

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Cumming (South Forsyth)

Mic Check One-Two at Lou Sobh Amphitheater

Cumming City Center presents a musical collective that brings a fusion of old-school hip-hop and modern choreography to the stage. The performance’s “breakbeat attitude” provides a stylistic contrast to the country and rock acts typically found in the region. The amphitheater layout allows for both seated and standing viewing.

• Day: Friday
• Time: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Location: Lou Sobh Amphitheater, Cumming City Center
• Price: Free admission
• Website: https://cummingcitycenter.com/events/2026-05-08/
• Who is it for: Fans of old-school hip-hop and high-energy dance performances

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Suwanee

Max’s Moon Run

The flagship event for Suwanee this weekend begins with a 5K race at Town Center Park and rolls directly into an outdoor concert. The run benefits the Maximus Janton Foundation, a local non-profit serving the special needs community. Food trucks and boutique vendors will be present for participants and spectators.

• Day: Friday
• Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Location: Suwanee Town Center Park
• Price: Registration required for run; Free for spectators
• Website: https://www.suwanee.com/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/3029/432
• Who is it for: Runners, philanthropists, and families supporting the special needs community

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Duluth

AAPI VibeFest

This premier cultural celebration on the Duluth Town Green honors the heritage of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. The festival features traditional and contemporary performances, a diverse array of food vendors, and interactive cultural exhibits. It is a key part of Duluth’s efforts to foster an inclusive community environment.

• Day: Saturday
• Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Location: Duluth Town Green
• Price: Free admission
• Website: https://downtownduluthga.net/calendar.php
• Who is it for: Residents interested in cultural exploration, live performance, and international food

Third Day 30th Anniversary Tour with Zach Williams

Gas South Arena hosts a major regional concert event featuring the 30th Anniversary Tour of “Third Day” with special guest Zach Williams. This performance is a significant milestone for the band and a major draw for fans of contemporary Christian rock. Due to high capacity, early arrival for parking is recommended.

• Day: Sunday
• Time: 7:00 PM
• Location: Gas South Arena, 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy.
• Price: Ticketed ($23.00 – $49.00+)
• Website: https://www.ticketmaster.com/third-day-30th-anniversary-tour-with-duluth-georgia-05-10-2026/event/OE0062C9DA7E4025
• Who is it for: Fans of contemporary Christian music and large-scale arena rock

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Standout Events in Nearby Areas

Sandy Springs Lantern Parade

This immersive regional favorite features larger-than-life puppets and thousands of handcrafted lanterns winding toward Morgan Falls Overlook Park. The event concludes with lanterns floating on the Chattahoochee River, creating a visually stunning spectacle.

• Day: Saturday
• Time: 6:00 PM (Pre-parade party); 8:30 PM (Parade step-off)
• Location: Morgan Falls Road / Overlook Park
• Price: Free admission
• Website: https://www.sandyspringsga.gov/lanternparade/

Dunwoody Art Festival

Held annually on Mother’s Day weekend, this prestigious festival transforms Dunwoody Village Parkway into a sprawling gallery with 150 visual artists from across the nation. It features a dedicated “Kidz Zone,” making it a top destination for gift-shoppers and families.

• Day: Saturday and Sunday
• Time: Saturday (10:00 AM – 6:00 PM), Sunday (10:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
• Location: Dunwoody Village Parkway
• Price: Free admission
• Website: https://www.discoverdunwoody.com/events/annual-events/dunwoody-art-festival/

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A Simple Weekend Route

The “Active Culture” Route (Friday and Saturday)

• Friday Evening (6:00 PM): Begin in Suwanee for the Max’s Moon Run to enjoy the concert and food trucks.
• Saturday Morning (9:00 AM): Visit the Alpharetta Farmers Market for fresh produce and artisanal breakfast.
• Saturday Afternoon (2:00 PM): Travel to Roswell for a Modern Calligraphy workshop or explore Canton Street shops.
• Saturday Evening (6:00 PM): Conclude in Sandy Springs for the Lantern Parade pre-party and procession.

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Dining Areas Near the Events

• Alpharetta City Center: For a sophisticated Friday evening, try Citizen Soul, an upscale American pub. Sunset Alpharetta offers a “curated escape” vibe that transitions from a sun-drenched brunch to a moody dinner.
• Roswell’s Canton Street: Table & Main, a 2025 Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient, is celebrated for its seasonal Southern cuisine. The Mill Kitchen and Bar is quintessential for farm-to-fork dining and features a large patio with a fireplace.
• Suwanee & Duluth: Try Suwanee Social for international cuisine right at the Town Center. In Duluth, Dreamland BBQ offers traditional Southern meats in a casual, family-friendly setting.

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Practical Tips and Weather Information

Meteorological Outlook

The weather is expected to be optimal for outdoor festivals, though evening temperatures will necessitate light layers.

• Friday: Clear skies, High 81°F, Low 58°F.
• Saturday: Partly cloudy, High 83°F with a 20% chance of late-afternoon showers, clearing by evening.
• Sunday: Sunny and mild, High 79°F with low humidity. For the latest forecast, visit our weather page: https://northatlantastar.com/johns-creek-weather/.

Logistical Guidance

• Parking & Shuttles: For the Sandy Springs Lantern Parade, use the shuttle from 7840 Roswell Road. For the Dunwoody Art Festival, utilize shuttles at Dunwoody City Hall.
• Reservations: Mother’s Day is extremely busy. Reservations for popular spots like Table & Main are recommended 48-72 hours in advance.
• Hydration: With highs in the 80s on Saturday, art festival attendees should prioritize hydration and sunscreen.

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Event Summary Table

On mobile: swipe sideways to see the full table.

Event Name	City	Day / Time	Price	Website
Moonlight Market	Alpharetta	Fri 5:00 PM	Free	Link
Max’s Moon Run	Suwanee	Fri 6:00 PM	Free*	Link
Boardwalk Opening	Johns Creek	Fri 6:00 PM	Free	Link
Mic Check One-Two	Cumming	Fri 8:00 PM	Free	Link
AAPI VibeFest	Duluth	Sat 5:00 PM	Free	Link
Lantern Parade	Sandy Springs	Sat 6:00 PM	Free	Link
Dunwoody Art Festival	Dunwoody	Sat/Sun 10:00 AM	Free	Link
Family Canoe Day	Roswell	Sat 10:30 AM	$25	Link
Third Day Concert	Duluth	Sun 7:00 PM	$23+	Link
ASYO Concert	Alpharetta	Sun 5:30 PM	Free	Link

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Best of Section

• Best for families: Boardwalk at Town Center Grand Opening (Johns Creek). The mix of new park exploration and high-energy music creates an ideal atmosphere.
• Best for adults / nightlife: Alpharetta Moonlight Market. Sophisticated artisanal shopping and an urban atmosphere perfect for a date night.
• Best free event: Sandy Springs Lantern Parade. The sheer scale and riverside finale offer a unique, world-class experience at no cost.
• Best outdoor activity: River Canoe Trips (Roswell). Guided evening paddles offer an unmatched way to engage with the region’s geography.
• Best live music event: End of the Line (Duluth). A masterfully executed Allman Brothers tribute in a high-fidelity listening room.
• Best local market or festival: Dunwoody Art Festival. This event remains the regional gold standard for art markets.

About the Author

Tsvi Jolles

Author, Editor & Publisher

Tsvi Jolles is the author of seven books and the founder and publisher of North Atlanta Star. He has lived in Cumming for almost a decade.

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