August 14, 2026 - Matt Hobby Field @ Pope High School


About The Event

What is PopeFest?
Pope High School is turning 40, and we're celebrating in a big way with PopeFest 2026! PopeFest is a high-energy festival experience featuring live music, food trucks, and DJ entertainment, all leading up to a spectacular fireworks finale. PopeFest is about community pride, connection, and unwavering support that have defined the Pope community for four decades. More than just a festival, PopeFest is an opportunity to gather, connect, and celebrate what Pope has meant to all of us.

Pope FEAST

PopeFest is kicking it up a notch by bringing together some of our favorite local restaurants and food vendors for PopeFEAST! Whether you're craving authentic Greek cuisine, handcrafted pizza, classic American favorites, sweet treats, or refreshing beverages, there's something to satisfy every appetite.

Come hungry, support local businesses, discover a new favorite eatery, and enjoy incredible food while experiencing an unforgettable evening of live music, fireworks, and community at PopeFest!

Event Details

Click on any section below to slide open more detailed information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PopeFest open to the public?
Yes! PopeFest welcomes Pope families, students, alumni, and community guests.

Do I need a ticket?
Yes. Tickets are required for entry and must be purchased and/or redeemed exclusively through GoFan. PopeFest will sell out, so be sure to purchase or redeem your ticket as soon as possible. Admission for children 3 years of age and younger is free when accompanied by an adult.
There are three ticket categories for PopeFest.

  1. Pope High School Student and Staff Ticket
    2026-2027 Pope students and staff will redeem their complimentary general admission ticket for stadium or field seating on a first come first serve basis. Seating is not reserved. Pope students will get their promo code through GoFan at checkout when redeeming their complimentary ticket. Pope staff will use a promo code received via email to redeem their complimentary ticket.
  2. VIP Ticket
    Experience PopeFest in comfort and style with our exclusive VIP access. A limited number of VIP tickets are available for purchase on GoFan.
  3. General Admission Ticket General Admission tickets are available for purchase on GoFan. All General admission tickets are for stadium or field seating on a first come first serve basis. Seating is not reserved.

What do I get with my VIP ticket?
Complimentary food, snacks, water, and soft drinks throughout the evening. Premium field viewing in an exclusive area near the stage. Access to a private VIP-only hospitality area, including a covered tent with misting fans to stay cool and comfortable. Exclusive standing and seated gathering areas for relaxing, socializing, and enjoying the event. Seating is limited, and guests are strongly encouraged to bring a tailgate chair for added comfort. Age-restricted area. No students are allowed, and no children under the age of 19.

Student & Staff Tickets
Current Pope students and staff will receive a promo code to redeem their ticket. Details for current Pope students and staff will be shared through school communications.

Where should I park?
Parking will be available for $10 through GoFan at Pope High School. Spaces are limited and are on a first come first serve basis. Overflow parking and shuttle service will also be available nearby. Additional parking details will be shared closer to the event.

Will food and drinks be available?
Yes! Food trucks and vendors from local restaurants will be on-site with food and beverages available for purchase throughout the event.

Can middle school students attend?
Yes, but middle school and younger students must attend with a parent or guardian.

What happens if it rains?
PopeFest will continue rain or shine. However, if postponement becomes necessary, the official rain date is Saturday, August 15, 2026.

Is there a clear bag policy?
Yes. To help maintain a safe environment, PopeFest will enforce a clear bag policy.

Are footballs, sports equipment, or toys allowed?
No. PopeFest is a music festival, not an athletic event. Footballs, sports equipment, water guns, toy weapons, hacky sacks, and other disruptive recreational items or activities are not permitted inside PopeFest. Any prohibited items will be confiscated.

Are pets allowed?
Any and all pets, including dogs, are strictly prohibited from campus or festival grounds. Only documented certified service animals, trained to perform specific tasks to assist individuals with disabilities, are permitted. Emotional support animals and pets are not permitted. Animals will be turned away at the gates.

What does seating look like?
With the exception of the VIP Experience, all PopeFest seating is General Admission and includes access to both stadium and field seating areas. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved. Guests planning to enjoy field seating are encouraged to bring a portable folding/tailgate chair for added comfort.

Allowed / Not Allowed Items

  • Refillable cups or bottles up to 32 oz. are permitted
  • No coolers or backpacks
  • No outside food, drinks, or alcohol
  • Umbrellas permitted only in the event of rain
  • No tents, sunshades, or canopies
  • No Drones, professional photography, or videography without the expressed written consent of PopeFest.
  • No lasers or laser pens/pointers.
  • No weapons of any kind.
  • No illegal substances. No vapes. No tobacco.
  • All Cobb County School District rules must be followed.

Getting to PopeFest

Matt Hobby Field at Pope High School Stadium

Parking Information

  • Limited parking is available for purchase at Pope High School on a first come first serve basis.
  • Free overflow parking available in designated auxiliary lots (YMCA and Hightower Trail MS) with shuttle service provided. Detailed information will be posted as we get closer to the event.
  • Accessible parking is available near the main entrance.
  • Follow event signage and volunteer directions upon arrival.

PopeFest Schedule

5:00 PM – Gates Open + DJ D80 + PopeFEAST & Artisan Market

6:00 PM – The Roosters

6:45 PM – Jeremy Would Let Me Drown

7:35 PM – Acoustic Soul

8:30 PM – Guardians of the Jukebox

Finale Event – 40 Years of Excellence & Success Fireworks Spectacular

Explore the PopeFest Artisan Market

What is the PopeFest Artisan Market?
The PopeFest Artisan Market features local artisans, makers, and small businesses offering unique handmade goods, artwork, apparel, jewelry, home décor, specialty items, and more.

Where will the Artisan Market be located?
The Artisan Market will be located within the PopeFest grounds in a designated shopping area easily accessible to all attendees.

The following vendors will be part of the Artisan Market:

    Beni Destine
    Capture It Write
    Crayonfetti
    Cutesyology Design
    Dots Monogram & Gifts
    Gillen's Gifts
    Heavenly Wreath Designs
    Honey Creek Woods
    Love, LuLo
    Miniature Magnets
    Peachtree Art Center
    Phoenix Nest Vintage
    Pretty Little Pieces
    Pure & Simple Creations by Tammy
    Roehouse Collective
    S.D. creations
    Sassy Bold Jams
    Sideline Sparkle Squad
    Skyward Crochet
    Summer Dreams Designs
    ThatCraftyChemist
    The Gilded Page
    The Moon and Quill
    The Taryn Project
    Tipsy Garden
    Up turned crafts
    Button and Bead
    Echoes of Kashmir
    Painted Pixels
    Paulette & Miranda’s Art

Questions?
Reach out to Katherine Sims at Katherine.Sims@cobbk12.org

Community Partnership

PopeFest is made possible through the support of our students, families, staff, and community partners. Interested in Becoming a Community Partner? Community partnership opportunities are available at multiple levels to support student programs and event operations. If you have any questions about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Lindsay.Barnette@cobbk12.org. To make a donation and become a Community Partner, click on the “Become a Community Partner Now” button.