The crisp autumn air has officially arrived in Georgia, making October one of the absolute best times to explore the Lake Oconee area! This month is packed with incredible live music, great food, and festive community gatherings.
Check out my hand-picked guide to the best events happening around Lake Oconee this October 2026. Be sure to click the links to snag your tickets before they sell out!
🎸 Major Festivals & Live Music
Get ready to tap your toes and sing along, because the local music scene is bringing the heat this October!
- Fire Lake: Ultimate Tribute to Bob Seger (Friday, Oct. 2 | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
Kick off the month at Barrel & Rail in Downtown Greensboro with some old-time rock & roll! The bar opens at 6:00 PM, so come early to grab a drink. Get your tickets here! - Banks & Shane: Live at the Lake (Friday, Oct. 9 | 7:00 PM)
Head over to Harmony Park in Eatonton for an unforgettable outdoor concert. These regional favorites always bring high energy. Check Visit Lake Oconee for details. - Jazz Legacy Project: Weather Report – Fusion Dynasty (Thursday, Oct. 15 | 7:30 PM)
Enjoy an evening of world-class music at Festival Hall in Downtown Greensboro as OPAS presents this tribute to jazz fusion pioneers. Grab your seats at the box office. - Rhythm & Brews Festival (Friday, Oct. 23 | 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM)
This is the big one! Head to Sandy Creek Barn Amphitheatre at Reynolds Lake Oconee to catch multi-platinum headliner Sugar Ray and Vertical Horizon. Enjoy a craft beer and wine tasting garden alongside fantastic food trucks. (21+ only). Purchase your Rhythm & Brews tickets here.
🍂 Fall Festivals & Community Celebrations
Nothing says "October" quite like chili, Oktoberfest, and pumpkins!
- Lake Oconee Elks Chili Cook-Off (Saturday, Oct. 3 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
Bring your appetite to the LO Elks Lodge in Eatonton for a fun, community-wide tasting and competition. Find more info here. - Harmony Crossing Oktoberfest (Friday, Oct. 16)
Celebrate the season with brews, seasonal food, and local vendors at the Harmony Crossing Plaza. See the event calendar for updates. - 2nd Annual Harvest Jubilee (Saturday, Oct. 24)
A perfect family-friendly day full of crafts, games, and seasonal treats. Get more information.
🎭 Arts, Culture & Local Outings
Immerse yourself in the local arts and charming downtown vibes this month.
- Scarecrow Contest & Showcase (October 1–31)
Take a stroll through Downtown Eatonton any time this month to see incredible custom scarecrows designed by local businesses! Learn more here. - Shakespeare on the Lawn (October 2–4)
Pack a blanket and enjoy outdoor theatrical productions on The Plaza Arts Center Lawn, presented with the Georgia Writers Museum. See the lineup here. - Downtown GetDown Concert Series (Saturday, Oct. 3 | 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
Enjoy a lovely evening of outdoor music in the heart of downtown Eatonton. Find out who's playing. - The Plaza Classic Golf Tournament (Wednesday, Oct. 14 | 11:00 AM)
Hit the links for a great cause! This tournament raises funds for youth art programs at The Plaza Arts Center. Register your team here.
Which event are you most excited about this October?
