How North Atlantans Celebrate Mom

Need a few ideas for what to do for Mom this year? After 30 years of living and working in this community, I've learned that the gifts we remember most aren't always the ones wrapped in a box. They're the afternoons spent together, the traditions we look forward to, and the time set aside to simply enjoy one another.

Luckily, North Atlanta has plenty of ways to make Mother's Day weekend special — from garden strolls and art markets to live music, brunch, and a few fun surprises. Here are some of my favorite ways to celebrate the moms and mother figures in your life!

Photo by Isaac Quesada on Unsplash

Celebrate in Alpharetta

Alpharetta City Center Mother's Day Celebration

Start the weekend with this free community celebration featuring live music, a dried floral bouquet bar, cookie decorating, and spring-themed crafts. It's a sweet way to bring together moms, kids, and multiple generations.

Mother's Day Market & Brunch at Halcyon

This one has a little bit of everything: local artisans, live music, a Mother's Day photo backdrop, a Sprinklenista pop-up, and even adoptable pups from Furkids. Come hungry, leave inspired — and maybe with a puppy-shaped distraction or two!

Makers Market Local Artist Fair at Avalon

Shop small at this outdoor market featuring 25+ local artists and handmade jewelry, pottery, fragrances, candles, bath and body products, and more. It's a fun way to find a gift while supporting local creatives.

Moms' Night Out Sip n' Shop at Makers Market AvalonWant to get the celebration started early? This Thursday evening event includes light bites, cocktail tastings, an event-only discount, and a raffle. Come for the shopping, stay for the fun — and don't be surprised if something finds its way into your own shopping bag!

Flowers, Art & Fresh Air

Mother's Day in the Garden

Spend the day surrounded by spring blooms at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, with live music and cocktails from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pretty flowers, good company, and no wrapping paper required.

Niki in the Garden

While you're at the Garden, check out the colorful sculptures of Niki de Saint Phalle. The exhibit marks the sculptures' return to the Garden 20 years after their debut and offers a unique way to enjoy art in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Chattahoochee Nature Center

For moms who would rather trade crowds for fresh air, this is a wonderful option. Moms get in free on Mother's Day, and you can bring a picnic, explore the Wildlife Walk, enjoy programs, and wander the River Boardwalk Trail.

Southeastern Designer Showhouse and GardensTake Mom on a tour of this year's Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Showhouse in Buckhead. As someone who spends my days walking through beautiful homes, this is always a fun outing to share with clients and friends. Mother's Day is the final day of tours, so be sure to plan ahead!

A Little Shopping & Downtown Charm

Mother's Day Pop-Up in Downtown Norcross

Take a leisurely stroll through downtown Norcross while local businesses offer special deals, sweet treats, giveaways, and other Mother's Day surprises. Sometimes the simplest plans — a walk, a little shopping, and plenty of conversation — make the best memories.

If Brunch Is Her Love Language...

Table & Main Mother's Day BrunchIf Mom would choose brunch over a festival any day of the week, head to this historic Roswell favorite. Reservations tend to fill quickly, so this is one Mother's Day plan you'll want to make early.

Art, Music & Springtime Fun

If Mom would rather spend the day outdoors soaking up the spring weather, check out the Sweet Auburn Festival, Dunwoody Art Festival, or Chastain Park Arts Festival. Each offers its own mix of art, music, food, and local flavor — perfect for wandering, browsing, and enjoying the day together.

Whatever you choose, I hope Mother's Day gives you and the moms in your life a little extra time together, plenty of laughs, and memories that last long after the flowers fade.

Happy Mother's Day, from my family at North Atlanta Home Group to yours!