TEDxAtlanta, Georgia's largest TED affiliate, has opened ticket sales for its 2026 conference and the inaugural TEDxAtlanta Youth event, scheduled for Oct. 2–3, 2026, at Atlanta International School's Sandy Springs campus. The 2026 edition, themed "Bold. Brave. Unbreakable.," will feature innovators, entrepreneurs, artists, community builders, and storytellers exploring transformative ideas.
The launch of TEDxAtlanta Youth marks a significant expansion, creating one of the Southeast's newest platforms dedicated to youth voices. Designed for speakers aged 16 to 23, the event aims to showcase perspectives from a generation navigating rapid technological advances, shifting social norms, economic uncertainty, and unprecedented opportunities for impact. "Some of the most important ideas about the future are coming from the generation that will live that future longest," said Jacqui Chew, TEDxAtlanta licensee. "TEDxAtlanta Youth creates a platform for young people to contribute their ideas, challenge assumptions, and help shape the conversations that will define the decades ahead."
TEDxAtlanta Youth will take place on the afternoon of Saturday, Oct. 3, immediately following the TEDxAtlanta MainStage program, allowing attendees to experience ideas from established leaders and emerging voices in a single day. This integration underscores the conference's commitment to intergenerational dialogue and inclusive innovation.
In addition to the youth event, TEDxAtlanta is significantly expanding its conference experience through the introduction of Explore Sessions. These sessions complement the TED-style talks by offering attendees opportunities to engage more deeply with ideas through conversation, creative expression, and hands-on learning. Programming formats include interactive workshops, facilitated learning experiences, a second stage with guided conversations, and the return of the Refresh Room—a space designed for introverts and those seeking rejuvenation through guided reflections. Together, the talks and Explore Sessions transform TEDxAtlanta from a conference attendees watch into an experience they actively participate in.
For over 16 years, TEDxAtlanta has convened curious minds around ideas that change everything, hosting more than 260 talks and performances. The organization has grown into a leading forum for innovation, creativity, and meaningful dialogue in the Southeast. Tickets for TEDxAtlanta, TEDxAtlanta Youth, and Complete Passes covering both conferences are available now at www.TEDxAtlanta.com.
The 2026 conference represents a pivotal moment for TEDxAtlanta as it broadens its reach and deepens engagement. By elevating youth voices and introducing interactive sessions, the event aims to foster a more participatory and inclusive environment—one where attendees not only listen but contribute. This shift reflects a growing recognition that meaningful change requires diverse perspectives and active collaboration across generations.
