The Ultimate Guide to 404 Day

By Taylor Boser

Published March 3, 2025
Last Updated April 4, 2025

If you live in Atlanta, you know the numbers 404 well — as the city’s first area code. Now, those three numbers are synonymous with April 4.

So what is 404 Day? It marks the epitome of celebrating Atlanta: its culture, the people and the iconic stories that make ATL the place to be. Whether you want to get enriched in the history of the city by visiting one of our many attractions or celebrate the day with passionate ATLiens, explore our list of things to do for 404 Day.

404 Day Parade

Downtown Atlanta will be buzzing with action to celebrate our city on the weekend of 404 Day. The parade offers a space for bands, businesses, schools, nonprofits, dancers, artists, sneakerheads, ATL legends and lovers of the city to come together for the A. The parade will proceed down Peachtree Street on April 5 starting at 10 a.m.

404 Day After Party

The party continues all weekend long with the 404 After Party at Wicked Wolf starting at 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. There will be $4.04 shots and cocktails specials, as well as $404 bottle of 1942.

404 Gala

Atlanta leaders, creators and change makers will be in attendance of the 404 Day Scholarship Gala. Proceeds raised from the gala will go toward the 404 Fund Scholarship, which helps students across Atlanta. The initiative provides scholarships and addresses community needs such as education, housing, food security and mental health. The gala is happening April 3 at the Fox Theatre starting at 6 p.m.

404 Day 2025

With 404 Day landing on a Friday, it’s the perfect day to takeover Piedmont Park. Embrace the vibrant soul of Atlanta with this festival. There’s a variety of DJs that were handpicked for this event, showcasing the rich diversity of talent that defines Atlanta’s music scene. The festival aims to create an unforgettable experience for all attendees. RSVP for your free tickets for the event on Friday, April 4 from noon to 9 p.m. VIP tickets are available for purchase. This is a fundraiser for WIFTA (Women in Film & Television of Atlanta).

404 Match

The Atlanta Vibe is bringing its energy to Downtown for its 404 Match. Happening at the Georgia State Convocation Center, the match will bring together Atlanta’s influencers, celebrities and key cultural groups. The Vibe takes on the Columbus Fury on March 30 at 3 p.m.

Other Ways To Celebrate Atlanta’s Impact

There are plenty of other ways to honor the legacy of Atlanta by exploring historical landmarks, iconic restaurants and notable figures.

Atlanta History Center

Located in Buckhead, the Atlanta History Center is one of the largest historical organizations in the Southeastern United States. When visiting the stunning campus, you can explore exhibits about Atlanta and Georgia history, along with the research library containing more than five million items related to Southern history and culture.

Atlanta University Center

The Atlanta University Center (AUC)is the largest body of private HBCUs in the nation. Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College and Morehouse School of Medicine are a part of the consortium. Established in 1929, the AUC is viewed by some as the birthplace of civil and human rights. Today, it continues to be a center for ideas, purpose and action.

Busy Bee Cafe

Providing some of the best Southern food in the region, Busy Bee Cafe is more than just a notable restaurant that’s been around since 1947. Presidents, notable figures and professional athletes are just some of the many famous folks who have walked through the door. Fried chicken, collard greens, mac and cheese, cornbread and sweet potato souffle are some must-trys on the menu.

Martin Luther King Jr.

As one of the most prominent leaders of the Civil Rights Movement, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was born and raised in Atlanta. Today, his legacy remains with his birth home, the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, The King Center and the King Family Home.

Jimmy Carter

Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. president, solidified his legacy right here in Atlanta. From founding the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, one of 14 presidential libraries in the U.S., to opening The Carter Center in partnership with Emory University, the history of his legacy can be explored in Atlanta. His Nobel Peace Prize from 2002 can be viewed at the Carter Presidential Library.

Read more about Carter’s legacy here.

U.S. Civil Rights Trail Stop

The Madame C.J. Walker Museum and WERDStudio became a stop on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail in February. Madame C.J. Walker became the first female self-made millionaire in the U.S after developing a line of cosmetics and hair care products for Black women. 

WERDStudio was the nation’s first Black-owned radio station, which began broadcasting in 1949. Visit these historic locations in the Sweet Auburn district.

Find more 404 Day events here.

For more things to do in the city, visit our calendar of events. Or explore more of the history and heritage of Atlanta.

A Chicago transplant, Taylor loves exploring what makes Atlanta the place to be. Name a popular festival, food hall or brewery to check out and she will be there.