Valdosta continues to grow as a vibrant destination filled with culture, creativity and community-driven events. In 2026, visitors can look forward to a mix of exciting new experiences and beloved annual traditions that showcase the best of South Georgia. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a return visit, these events offer plenty of reasons to put a trip to Valdosta on your calendar.
A new addition to Valdosta, Oak & Olive is generating excitement as a fresh dining and gathering concept. Oak & Olive is redefining southern hospitality through elevated simplicity. This newly opened cocktail bar is the perfect meeting space whether you are planning a private event, curious about their cocktail program or want to say hello over a good drink. Be sure to add a visit to Oak & Olive on your next trip to Valdosta.
In late 2025, the Meta Shaw Coleman Children’s Imagination Station at the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts opened as a new hub for arts and cultural enrichment. This new expansion will serve as a center for arts education and entertainment for the whole family.
It will house a variety of art and STEAM activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. It will offer families in South Georgia, an immersive experience that can encourage creativity and lifelong learning, making the Turner Center an even more dynamic stop for families and art lovers.
A brand-new celebration, the Valdosta Mardi Gras Festival will debut in 2026 with a full weekend of festivities leading up to Fat Tuesday. Downtown Valdosta and Unity Park will come alive with a parade, car show, pancake breakfast, food trucks, live music, a kid zone and more! This new tradition brings the spirit of Mardi Gras to South Georgia and adds an exciting event to Valdosta’s growing festival lineup. Hosted by Krewe de Fondatrice, it will sure be a weekend to remember
One of Valdosta’s most cherished spring traditions, the Valdosta-Lowndes Azalea Festival returns for its 26th year at Drexel Park. The festival features arts and crafts vendors, live entertainment, a classic car show, a 5K race, family activities and stunning azaleas in full bloom. It remains a highlight of the spring season for visitors and locals alike.
Held annually in the spring, the South Georgia Film Festival at Valdosta State University celebrates storytelling and creativity through independent and student films. Filmmakers, students and movie enthusiasts come together for screenings, discussions and special presentations, adding a cultural and academic flair to Valdosta’s events calendar.
The Valdosta Bluesberry Festival combines live blues music with blueberry-inspired food, drinks and family-friendly fun in downtown Valdosta. Hosted at Unity Park, this annual event has quickly become a spring favorite, offering a relaxed atmosphere, local vendors and great entertainment.
Hosted at the Rainwater Conference Center, the Antique Show at the Rainwater is a new event for collectors and casual shoppers alike. This three-day event brings together vendors from across the region offering antiques, vintage décor, furniture, collectibles and one-of-a-kind finds. This inaugural event is a great way to spend a summer weekend exploring timeless treasures.
Each summer, the Peach State Summer Theatre presents professional-quality musicals performed by talented artists from across the country. Hosted on the Valdosta State University campus, PSST is known as Georgia’s Official Musical Theatre and is a standout option for visitors looking for memorable summer entertainment in Valdosta.
Fall is an especially festive time in Valdosta, with events that combine seasonal flavors, live entertainment and community spirit.
Starting in the summer into the fall season, the Music in the Art Park concert series pairs live music with local food vendors for a family-friendly evening at the Turner Center for the Arts. In October, the Burgers & Bluegrass event brings live bluegrass music together with some of the area’s best local burgers, creating a laid-back and enjoyable fall experience.
The Pumpkin Spice Festival during Great Pumpkin LumiNights at Wild Adventures is another fall highlight. Featuring pumpkin-themed foods, seasonal treats, family-friendly activities and photo opportunities, this festival captures the essence of autumn in South Georgia.
Art lovers won’t want to miss the annual ARToberfest at the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts. This event features local artists, seasonal exhibitions and hands-on activities, offering a creative and engaging way to explore Valdosta’s arts and culture scene.
Just minutes from Valdosta, the Hahira Honeybee Festival is a long-standing community tradition celebrating small-town charm and heritage. The festival includes arts and crafts, food vendors, live entertainment and parades throughout downtown Hahira, making it a popular fall outing for visitors to the area.
Celebrate the fall season at Oktoberfest hosted by Georgia Beer Company. This annual event features seasonal and German-inspired beers, live music, food vendors and a lively atmosphere at one of Valdosta’s most popular breweries. It’s a perfect way to enjoy cooler weather and local flavor.
The holiday season brings even more reasons to visit Valdosta.
The annual Valdosta Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on the lawn of the Historic Lowndes County Courthouse. This cherished tradition marks the beginning of the holiday season with festive music, carolers, seasonal beverages and a dazzling tree lighting.
The Valdosta Christmas Parade follows this annual event promising vibrant floats, marching bands, holiday characters and plenty of festive cheer for the whole family.
Visitors can also experience the magic of Wild Adventures Christmas Wild & Bright Festival. The theme park transforms into a winter wonderland with decorated rides and attractions, Brunch with Santa, the Carol of the Animals Lake Show and the Christmas Tree Village.
From new festivals and creative experiences to long-running community traditions, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year in Valdosta. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend festival, a seasonal celebration, or a family getaway, there’s always something happening in South Georgia’s welcoming destination.
Plan your visit around these events and discover everything that makes Valdosta a memorable place to explore year-round.
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