The Kennesaw Big Shanty Festival features a full weekend of shopping, food, and entertainment in downtown Kennesaw each spring. Spread across both sides of Main Street, the festival fills the downtown area with craft booths, food vendors, live performances, and activities for kids. It is one of Kennesaw’s best known annual events, and it has a way of turning a stroll through downtown into a mission involving kettle corn, handmade gifts, and something fried.
More than 250 booths fill the festival area with handmade crafts, specialty goods, and plenty of reasons to browse a little longer than planned. The Georgia Grown Member Village adds another stop for visitors looking for Georgia made products and food items.
Festival food is always part of the appeal, with approximately 30 classic fair favorites and food vendors spread throughout the festival grounds. A food court near 1885 Grill gives visitors another spot to grab something to eat and catch live music. Beer will also be available for purchase from places like 1885 Grill, Horned Owl Brewing, and Bernie’s Social Bar.
Live entertainment will take place throughout the weekend on multiple stages, including the Main Street Stage and the United Bankshares Amphitheater at Depot Park. Local performers, dance groups, school choruses, and demonstration teams help keep the schedule moving, while the downtown setting gives the event plenty of space and excitement. Families will also find a Kid’s Zone with inflatables and activities for younger visitors.
The 2026 festival is the 50th annual event, a milestone year for one of Kennesaw’s longest running spring traditions. Organizers say booth space sold out in record time this year, which gives a pretty good clue about how much interest the festival still draws after all these years.
Free entertainment will include the Ready Go Dog Show at the new city amphitheater at noon, 2:00 pm, and 4:00 pm on both Saturday and Sunday. Acoustic music is scheduled between dog show performances, and Scott Thompson will perform live in the food court area next to 1885 Grill on both days.
One other update worth noting is that there is no parade this year. The parade had been part of past festivals, but it is not included in the 2026 event and may no longer be part of the format going forward.
Admission:
Free
Hours:
Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 10 am to 6 pm
Sunday, April 19, 2026 from 12 pm to 5 pm
Rain or Shine
Location:
Downtown Kennesaw
2871 N Main St
Kennesaw, Ga 30144
The festival stretches through downtown Kennesaw along Main Street from Lewis Street to Summers Street, then continues across the railroad tracks into Depot Park. Streets in the festival area will be closed during event hours to make room for foot traffic and help keep things moving safely.
Parking and Shuttles:
Parking is available throughout downtown Kennesaw, and a free shuttle runs continuously between the festival and Swift Cantrell Park all weekend for an easier trip in and out. Accessible parking will be available behind the United Bankshares Amphitheater, with entry limited to Big Shanty Drive.
This fun filled event is co-sponsored by the City of Kennesaw and the Kennesaw Business Association.
For more information, please contact JRM Management at (770) 423-1330.
2026 Arts and Crafts Application
For more information, please contact JRM Management at (770) 423-1330.
who do we submit a band that may be interested in playing to?
How much is parking?
Is there a list of vendors?
I actually have a question! Will the event occur rain or shine?
This festival was a joke and an insult to vendors. It rained for a FULL WEEK and they didn’t have any straw or mulch on hand to dry up foot paths or vending areas. We had to send booth workers, spouses, and local friends to go buy some for us two hours into the event AFTER we were promised some was in the way by the management company. We saw not one worker from the company in our section the entire time.
They should have turned some vendors away instead of putting 60 or so of us in an absolute swamp with the only entrance to that section hidden behind the port-o-potties. I had local customers come to the festival to see me and couldn’t FIND me. Ridiculous.
I called JRM asking for ANY sort of refund and even said I would settle for an apology letting me know that these were indeed problems and they’ll fix it in the future. I got neither the refund nor the apology.
So vendors: they plan on continuing with these problems.
Hi, I was wondering if you knew what the name of the company selling the hand painted glass was? There were salt shakers, bowls, wine glasses, etc. and they were brightly painted with flowers. I think they were located in front of the new apartment/shopping complex. I really wanted one but I didn’t bring money yesterday and it was cancelled today. Thanks.
Hi, I was wondering if you happen to know what the name of the company that sold the wooden rifles, crossbows, slingshots, and bow and arrows was? I really wanted to get one, but didn’t bring money and today it was canceled due to weather.
I heard that one of the Big Shanty singers passed out!!!
Really?
really!
Do you have Handicap parking? Please answer!!!
I actually have a question. If it rains, will you still have the festival or will it be postponed or ccanceled?
Interested in a booth for the show in 2015.
I still cannot find where the applications, fees, instructions, restrictions or really any information on being a vendor at this festival? Is there another website that they have gone too?
Hi David,
Try contacting the event organizers – JRM Management at (770) 423-1330 or online at https://www.jrmmanagement.com.
When will you start accepting applications for the 2015 show?
Trying to locate name or website of jewelry vendor from festival. Her necklaces and bracelets were made from nuts and bolts. If you have any info please let me know. Thanks
We attended the event today and there were lots of dogs of all sizes. Those that are comfortable around dogs should enjoy this Festival. There didn’t seem to be any restrictions on animals in food areas, etc. Expect to be free to roam with your dog on a leash. The event is definitely pet friendly.
Can we bring dogs if they are on a leash or in a stroller?
I am working on a festival round up and had a few questions on the Big Shanty Festival. Could you tell me a good contact for me?
Helena Oliviero
Features writer, The AJC
I would love to be a food vendor at this event for 2014. We are a food truck the frequencies the Kennesaw Depot food truck night on Mondays. Can you please let me know how to go about becoming a vendor.
thanks!
Hi Jason,
Try calling the event organizers at (770) 423-1330.
We look forward to seeing you there – and I will be stopping by for a Bahn Mi Meatball Sandwich – and several more at food truck night before that. 😉
Do they really close on Saturday at 6pm?
What is the mileage length of the parade? Is there a shuttle that takes you back to your car at Adams Park after parade participation?
There is not a shuttle to take you back to Adams Park. You have to either walk back or arrange transportation near the end of the parade.
Are small dogs allowed? I have a yorkie I have a carry bag for him
What arrangements have been made for parking?
What is the Intel for Big Shanty 2013. Who’s showing up, Bands, Marines and etc
Where can I find information about selling at this year’s Big Shanty Festival? Thanks so much!!
Would love some info on how to be considered to play at the 2013 Big Shanty Festival.
Thanks
Jeff
I am interested in having a booth at this year’s Big Shanty Festival (Spring 2013). Are there still booths available? Where would I be able to find more information about having a booth at the festival? Thank you for your time.
Is there a list of vnedors from this festival, I am trying to find one, that I forgot the name of and lost his card~
We went on Saturday and bought mini doughnuts from temptation doughnuts. My whole family loved them. Do they have a local store? I tried googling them and I can’t find anything about them.
Where is there any handicapped parking?
Is this a rain or shine event?
Hi Jessica,
Yes, this event will take place rain or shine.
Is there a shuttle parking area? Where to park?
Thank you!
Hi Sandra,
There are usually signs and people to direct you to the closest parking lot from any direction.
I purchased a military 2.5 ton (duece and a half) truck last year. Is there a place in the parade that it would be appropriate. If so I would like to participate in the parade.
For participation information, please call (770) 423-1330.
This is great event. The only suggestion I have is that I wish it lasted a little longer than 6pm and had some bands playing somewhere. I think there was a guy playing guitar on top of trackside last year if I remember correctly. More music please!
I totally agree! This festival is so great but too short. Walking through the festival at night all lit up and listening to some local bands would top off the day. Could help promote the great restaurants and boost nightlife downtown.
Is there a list of performers and what time they perform?
Hi Andrea,
Unfortunately we are not aware of any published list of performance times.
Where do 50,000 people park? Sounds like a big festival but that area doesn’t look like it has the parking for that many people.
Brandy,
They park everywhere. If you come early enough you can find parking at Adam’s park. I’ve actually seen people park in the lot behind Burger King, Autozone area and walk over.
We went and it was our first time. Stopped at the very first lot we saw right next to the festival… and in 3 min we were parked. The nice fellas working in the lot directed us to our space… it was very organized… Only $5.00… and we were a hop skip and a jump away from the festival. Cannot wait to go back next year!
I’m looking to be a vendor this year (2012), who do I go through for that?
Thanks!
For vendor information, please call (770) 423-1330.
We have been participants at the Big Shanty Festival since 1995. This is a wonderful event for the whole family. There is something for everyone. Shopping, demonstrations, eating, playing, there are several local businesses there to promote their place in the community, and entertainment. There is a HUGE parade on Saturday morning.
Parking can be a little crazy, there are some “paid” parking areas/lots … and there are places you might be able to park [free] for a short term. My advice on this is for you to come out early, especially on Saturday.
Bring your walking shoes, bring a stroller or wagon for the young kids, there is alot of ground to cover.
Pack a picnic (a little ice chest fits nicely in the stroller bottom.), or purchase lunch from the food vendors. There are some delicious choices
@Margot>>> I have seen many DOGS over the years there, don’t think there is any ordinance against them being there (even seen a few lizards, birds and one monkey, as I recall.)
Bring CASH. Some vendors will take credit/debit cards, but not all of them .. I do not remember seeing an ATM machine there in years past.
Hope you come out and have a good time, rain or shine!
Hi Celia,
Thanks for the great information and comments. We are looking forward to seeing you there and we will be sure to stop by to say hi and get a picture of your booth this year.
Hi Celia,
You are right, come early. We have had the great fortune of parking for free because our daughter is in the parade and we have to be there really early. On the ATM machines, there was one available right before the railroad tracks.
Great fudge by the way!!!!
I look forward to seeing you in a few weeks.
Ketha
There was an ATM there this year. It was near the Food/Seating Area. Near the underground tunnel and playground.
Are there any food vending spots available?
Hi Mack,
For vendor information, please contact Tod Miller at (770) 423-1330.
We went to the festival and saw a vendor selling fantastic glass windchimes. I want to get one for my mom for mothers day, but she was with me at the time!!! If anyone knows the name of the person or their website Id really appreciate it. Thanks!
I live in South Carolina and was there last year with my son and his family who live in Kennesaw. What a great festival. This year we are making it a big family weekend. My other two children and their families who also live in SC are making the trek to Kennesaw with me to join in the fun at the Big Shanty Festival. See you there!! 🙂
Are dogs allowed?
@Margot,
We just got back from the festival and there were quite a few dogs there.
@Andrew,
We have not seen a list of vendors online anywhere, but you could try calling the event organizers at (770) 423-1330.
@Dottie,
Thanks for your comment and glad to hear that you are making the trip. I am sure you will have a great time, and feel free to stop back by this page and leave your comments about this years festival.
How can I get a list of attendees?
I want to know who will have a booth at the Big Shanty
1. Is the festival in the depot parking lot next to the playground?
2. How can we find out where to park and what is the best route to reach the festival?
@mike
The center of the festival is the area surrounding the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, however the event will likely spread out over the entire downtown area. This is one of the largest festivals in North Georgia and over 50,000 people are expected to attend.
If you like the USMC 8th&I Silent Drill Team. Take a look at their website along with the USMC D&B CORPS. Which performs at the Albany Georgia Marine Base each October.
drumcorps.mbw.usmc.mil/
I heard there was a Library Book Cart Drill Team performing in the parade. Is this true?
@librario,
Yes, there was a library book cart drill team in the parade. They were great.
IS there a battle reenactment??
@Jeannemarie
There is a Civil War encampment, but we are not aware of a battle reenactment.
What day?
Our Confederate artillery group will be onsite along with our civilian ladies group. Will be demonstrating a three inch ordnance rifle cannon.
what needs to be done to perform on the stage in front of the police department, where the ETO demo team does their demonstration?
Hi Matt,
For information about performing on stage, please contact the festival organizers at (770) 423-1330.
Hi Beverly,
United States Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon will be performing in the parade on Saturday morning and also performing at Kennesaw Mountain High School at 7:30pm Saturday evening, April 17, 2010 as part of military appreciation night.
Hello there, I read that the Marine Corps Silent Drill Team will be performing in the festival, where and what time will the performance start?
Thank you for your time.
We would like to have a vendor booth. Could you let me know where to sign up and when the deadline is?
Thank you.
Hi Cindi,
For vendor information, please contact Tod Miller at (770) 423-1330.
Is it to late to become a vendor?
We are an authentic Indian frybread vendor and were looking to fill our schedule. If you could call me or email the info of event and food vendor application 386-479-9560 or email shilohsfrybread.
Thank you,
Donna
Good Luck they are the worst at returning calls or even letting you know they have received your application. I’ve decided not to put my business in there hands.
I got two whole beef tenderloins from you for Christmas Eve dnnier. I can’t tell you how everyone raved about it. You could cut the meat with a fork. Everything we have purchased from you over the past year has been top-grade and wonderful. Amazingly, your prices are reasonable (in line with Publix), but the quality is far superior. I am a fan and a very happy customer. Love it that you are just across the street from my subdivision.
*their hands.