Atlanta Beltline Lantern Parade

We have you covered with the best family-friendly shows, exhibits and special events this month. Don’t miss our list of Mother’s Day events and brunches. Also check out our Guide to Spring and Summer Festivals and events for celebrating Memorial Day.

Table of Contents

Train Day at Vines Park

Explore the rails and trails with this seasonal opening day featuring a take-home craft. May 16.

Pop-in for Family Fun at Marietta History Center

Explore themed activities focused on “Rockets & Robots.” May 16.

Lil’Palooza at Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Party with Huntrix’s Rumi from “K-Pop Demon Hunters,” jam out with a singing puppet band, dance to tunes and more at this music festival for kids. May 16.

Movies Under the Stars at The Village Amphitheatre at Mall of Georgia

Enjoy music, face painting and more before the showing of “Paw Patrol: The Movie.” May 16.

Star Wars & More with the ASO at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

This family-friendly concert features iconic film scores from John Williams, Danny Elfman and more from “Star Wars,” “The Avengers” and more. May 16.

Backyard Campout at Swift-Cantrell Park

Explore the fun of camping with games, s’mores and more, and on Friday night, enjoy a night under the stars with a viewing of “Atlantis: The Lost Empire.” May 16-17.

The Great Ant Sleepover at Goizueta Stage for Youth & Families

Join Anton as he discovers what it means to be brave on his very first night in the big kids’ room. May 16-July 5.

The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales at Center for Puppetry Arts

Laugh at the strange twists and hilarious retellings of classic folktales at this puppet play. Through May 17.

Yaarab Shrine Circus and Fair at Jim R. Miller Park

Enjoy an all-new show this year with world-class entertainment from Carden International Circus, exciting ground acts, rides, clowns and more. Through May 17.

Adventure Cubs at Zoo Atlanta

Engaging activities will get you and your little on moving and creating with a game, craft, story and sing-a-long to learn about a new animal. May 21.

Wild Kratts: Ocean Adventure! at Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Dive into ocean habitats to explore fascinating creatures, solve problems and help the Wild Kratts team foil the villains’ nefarious plans. May 23-Sept. 13.

Mamma Mia! at Woodstock Arts Theatre

Listen to ABBA’s greatest hits in this musical celebrating love, family and friendship. Through May 24.

Beauty and the Beast at Fox Theatre

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of Disney’s production at this musical with spectacular new sets and dazzling costumes. May 26-31.

In the Heights at Aurora Theatre

This musical blends hip hop, salsa, merengue and soul to celebrate family, resilience and the pursuit of the American Dream. May 28-June 21.

Lantern Parade at Duluth Town Green

Light up the night at this community celebration. May 29.

Toddler Takeover at Sifly Piazza

This one-of-a-kind arts experience for ages 5 and younger features live performances, art-making, special activities and more. May 30-31.

Basura at Alliance Theatre

This musical is inspired by the true story of Paraguay’s Recycled Orchestra, where young artists turn scrap material into instruments and music. May 30-July 12.

Mornings at the Zoo at Zoo Atlanta

Before the Zoo officially opens, enjoy exclusive access to observe the lions this month on a guided tour in select public viewing areas. May 31.

River Roots Science Stations at Chattahoochee Nature Center

Trace the river’s history and how it is used today with hands-on stations. Through May 31.

UniverSoul Circus at Old Turner Field

This circus features comedians, daredevils, entertainers and more. Through May 31.

Niki in the Garden at Atlanta Botanical Garden

Celebrate the Garden’s 50th anniversary with an exhibition of Niki de Saint Phalle’s monumental sculptures that debuted at the site 20 years ago. Through Sept. 6.

Past events:

Legally Blonde JR. at Roswell Cultural Arts Center

Watch Elle Woods prove her intelligence and wit as she heads to Harvard in this musical from Roswell Youth Theatre. May 1-2.

Music for the Very Young: Tin Man’s Oz at Goizueta Stage for Youth & Families

Follow the yellow brick road to Emerald City with music that is sure to fill your heart. May 2.

Cap’N Peak at Aurora Theatre

This Star Trek-themed performance from Felt Nerdy Puppets will feature intergalactic fun. May 2.

Acworth-Cobb Dragon Boat Festival at Dallas Landing Park

Watch Dragon Boat races with colorful, 40-foot boats featuring paddlers and a drummer. May 2.

Little Shop of Stories Children’s Book Festival at Decatur Library

This fun weekend for readers of all ages will include picture books, graphic novels, author talks and more. May 2-3.

Sunday FUNday: Flower Myths at Carlos Museum

Explore the floral myths connected to Greek goddesses and heroes before making an inspired paper flower arrangement or craft. May 3.

Georgia State Fair at Atlanta Motor Speedway

Visit the petting zoo, enjoy amusement rides, watch a circus act and more. Through May 3.

North Georgia Live Steamers at Georgia International Horse Park

Enjoy a mini train ride on a small version of a steam train. May 9.

Sandy Springs Lantern Parade at Morgan Falls Overlook Park

Celebrate with an evening filled with fantastical puppets and glowing lanterns. May 9.

UPS Second Sunday at High Museum of Art

Enjoy special family-friendly programming with art making, performances and exhibits. May 10.

Forum Flicks at The Forum Peachtree Corners

Enjoy a movie under the stars with a viewing of “Little Rascals.” May 12.

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