The Blue Stone Arts & Music Festival returns to Sandy Springs Sept. 25 and 26 for the city’s fourth year of its free downtown fair, featuring live music from nationally acclaimed acts, a market with more than 60 artists, and an area for kids’ activities.
In early July, city officials put out an open call for vendors. Festival organizers encourage those interested in a booth to submit an application before the Sept. 18 deadline.
City officials are calling on artists to submit proposals for the official 2026 Festival Poster. Emerging and established creators can submit entries now through the end of July.
Festival details
The festival’s opening-night headliner, on Friday, Sept. 25, is alternative rock band Nicotine Dolls. Organizers said the band is making a special trip to Sandy Springs for what will be their final United States performance before departing to begin an international tour.
On Saturday, September 26, acclaimed singer-songwriter Allen Stone is headlining with his signature blend of soul, R&B, funk, and pop. Currently touring alongside Chris Stapleton and scheduled to join Teddy Swims for additional dates later this fall, Stone is also completing work on a highly anticipated new album.
On Friday and Saturday, patrons can check out the Georgia premiere of Squonk’s “Joy Machine,” an outdoor celebration of music, art, and community.
“Joy Machine” features live music, giant visual inventions, and hands-on interaction. Audiences help animate puppets, play a massive drum wall, and power the action. Every performance is unique, transforming the public space into a celebration of collective creativity and play.
Blue Stone 5K and links
The Blue Stone Arts & Music Festival also means the return of the Blue Stone 5K-9, a family-friendly fun run that invites participants to hit the course with their favorite four-legged companions. Whether running, jogging, or walking, all ages are welcome to participate with or without a furry friend.
The primarily flat, out-and-back course is also an Official Northside Hospital Peachtree Road Race Qualifying Event, allowing runners to earn a qualifying time for Atlanta’s iconic Fourth of July tradition while enjoying one of the festival’s signature community events. Register here.
The Blue Stone 5K-9 is committed to making the event accessible for everyone. In partnership with Catalyst Sports, Sandy Springs Recreation & Parks will offer a limited number of adaptive handcycles for participants with disabilities.
The city’s announcement says the festival’s full schedule, including the complete calendar of events and musical line-up, will be announced soon. For more details, visit the festival’s main website. Click here for information on sponsorships.
