Over 150 bands and artists will perform over the course of the weekend, with most performances free of charge to the public. The festival also includes a juried artisan market, the Flagpole Music Awards show, KidsFest, and much more. From 2005-2007, ATHFEST was included in the "TOP 20 Events for June" by the Southeast Tourism Society.

Each year, Athens-based Ghostmeat Records releases a compilation of local music, primarily of bands that will perform at festival. Ghostmeat Records founder Russ Hallauer produced this year's CD, the 11th such release. The CD will feature cover art by Athens artist Catherine Stinson. This year's edition includes a diverse array of music from 19 Athens artists, 12 of which have never appeared on previous ATHFEST CDs, with 15 previously unreleased tracks.