Labor Day weekend may mark the unofficial end of summer, but there is still plenty of time for one more adventure. Whether you want to cool off at the waterpark, taste your way around the world, spend time outdoors, catch live music, or hunt for a great deal, Henry County, GA has plenty of ways to fill the long weekend.
Make the most of September 4 through 7 with these ideas for a memorable Labor Day weekend in Henry County.
Taste Your Way Around FoodieLand
Come hungry to FoodieLand Atlanta, taking over EchoPark Speedway in Hampton from September 4 through 6.
This open-air night market brings flavors from around the world together in one place, with vendors serving everything from viral street food creations and international dishes to decadent desserts and refreshing drinks. Between bites, explore live entertainment, games, and plenty of photo-worthy food finds.
With three days to experience FoodieLand, visitors can make it the centerpiece of a Labor Day weekend outing or stop by after spending the day exploring more of Hampton.
Make One Last Splash at Kensley Grace Waterpark
Give summer a proper send-off at Kensley Grace Waterpark at the Henry County Aquatic Center.
The outdoor waterpark will open on Labor Day, Monday, September 7, for the final day of its inaugural season. Race down the four-person mat racer, brave the speed slide, float around the lazy river, test your balance on the Wave Rider, or let younger swimmers splash in the zero-depth pool and interactive water features.
Admission to the waterpark also includes access to the indoor Henry County Aquatic Center, so families can make an entire day of it. If your idea of saying goodbye to summer involves a swimsuit and a splash, this is the place to be.
Trade the Backyard for the Great Outdoors
Use the extra day off to get outside at Panola Mountain State Park in Stockbridge.
The 1,635-acre preserve offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, whether you want to hike through the woods, cycle along the paved PATH Trail, try archery, enjoy a picnic, or simply slow down and appreciate the scenery. At the center of the park is Panola Mountain, a protected granite monadnock and National Natural Landmark.
Access to the mountain itself is limited to ranger-led hikes, so visitors interested in reaching the summit should check availability and make reservations in advance.
Spend the Day with the Animals
For a Labor Day weekend adventure the whole family can enjoy, head to Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary in Locust Grove.
More than 150 rescued animals call the 121-acre sanctuary home. Visitors may encounter bears, big cats, primates, birds, reptiles, farm animals, and other residents while learning about the stories that brought them to Noah’s Ark.
Take your time exploring the peaceful grounds, and turn the outing into a full Locust Grove day with lunch nearby, a stop in Downtown Locust Grove, or a little shopping afterward. Because sanctuary operations can be affected by weather and other conditions, check current visitor information before heading out.
Shop the Labor Day Weekend Deals
Long weekends and shopping trips just seem to go together.
At Tanger Outlets Locust Grove, visitors can browse more than 70 brand-name and designer stores, making it easy to search for end-of-summer styles, fall wardrobe additions, back-to-school necessities, or something just for fun.
When you need a shopping break, Locust Grove offers plenty of nearby restaurants, coffee shops, and sweet treats to help turn a few hours of bargain hunting into a full-day getaway.
Spend Saturday Night with Southern Soul
Saturday night plans are covered at VyStar Amphitheater at The Bridge.
The Southern Soul Concert comes to the Stockbridge amphitheater on Saturday, September 5. Doors open at 6PM so grab your crew, settle in for an evening of music under the open sky, and add a little soul to your Labor Day weekend.
Before the show, explore Historic Downtown Stockbridge and grab dinner at one of the area’s locally owned restaurants to make a full evening of it.
Cruise into Labor Day Evening
After a day of swimming, shopping, or relaxing, end the holiday surrounded by horsepower at Summit Racing Equipment‘s Monday Night Cruise.
The weekly gathering rolls into Labor Day on Monday, September 7, from 6PM to 8PM. Car enthusiasts and casual admirers alike can check out an assortment of impressive rides while enjoying a laid-back, family-friendly evening in McDonough.
It’s an easy final stop before the long weekend comes to a close and Tuesday brings everyone back to reality.
Enjoy One More Summer Weekend in Henry County
Labor Day weekend does not have to mean summer fun is already over. From international flavors and live music to waterslides, wildlife, shopping, classic cars, and outdoor adventures, Henry County gives visitors plenty of ways to make the extra day count.
Pick one activity, build an entire weekend around several, or make Henry County your home base for one last summer getaway. However you spend it, there is still time to squeeze a little more adventure out of the season and discover why Henry County is Better Explored.