Georgia Cities Week
The 2026 Georgia Cities Week will run from April 20 through April 25, 2026. This statewide event celebrates city government, community achievements, and the essential services cities provide.
Purpose & Goals
- Raise public awareness of the important role that city governments play in residents’ daily lives.
- Provide residents with an inside look into how cities operate, highlighting infrastructure, public works, and city-led community projects.
- Showcase notable city successes—from neighborhood revitalization to volunteer efforts—and spotlight public employees and city volunteers.
- Strengthen connections between residents, local leaders, and state legislators, encouraging civic engagement.
Why It Matters
City government is often “the government closest to the people”—yet many residents don’t fully understand how it works or what it delivers. Georgia Cities Week is a powerful opportunity to bridge that gap, letting cities:
- Educate citizens about municipal services and governance.
- Celebrate public service and the contributions of city employees.
- Encourage participation through community events, open houses, tours and educational activities.
How Cities Participate
- Cities can adopt a resolution to officially recognize Georgia Cities Week.
- GMA provides each participating city with a resource kit (sent in advance), which includes suggested activities, planning tools, handouts, and more.
- Local events vary widely—some cities host facility tours, “touch-a-truck” days, youth art or essay contests, open houses, or public service recognitions.
- Cities also use this week to connect with youth, such as through “If I Were Mayor..” essay contests or civic education partnerships.
Impact & Participation
- In 2025, more than 170 cities across Georgia took part in Georgia Cities Week.
- Through this week, cities build public understanding, boost civic pride, and depend on working relationships with both residents and policymakers.
Key Messages & Themes
- Civic Engagement: Encouraging residents to learn, ask questions, and get involved
- Transparency: Demonstrating how city government operates and makes decisions
- Service and Innovation: Highlighting how cities are solving local challenges with creative projects
- Community Pride: Celebrating what makes each Georgia city unique
How to Participate
- Complete the 2026 Georgia Cities Week Participation Form for your city to sign up to participate and receive a Resource Kit (Please note: The form will open in January 2026).
- Resource Kits will be mailed and emailed in February 2026.
For more information about Georgia Cities Week, contact Dana Goodall.
