PUMPKIN FESTIVAL 2023 AT STONE MOUNTAIN

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/15/23

Play by Day, Glow by Night during Pumpkin Festival at
Stone Mountain Park

Annual event returns with NEW Pumpkin Drone Show

Stone Mountain Park’s Pumpkin Festival – Play by Day, Glow by Night, is the most illuminated fall of all! Guests are welcome to celebrate the splendor of autumn during the park’s Pumpkin Festival, a family tradition featuring a multitude of glowing experiences.

Marvel at the all-new Pumpkin Drone Show! This brand-new show features a fleet of color-changing drones synchronized to festive music while creating specially themed shapes in the sky.  Watch pumpkins, bats, spiders, and more in this aerial masterpiece happening before the World’s Largest Pumpkin Light Show each night of Pumpkin Festival. 

The glowing experiences are infinite! With even more glow this year, visit the all-new Wonderland’s Fantastical 3D Immersive Experience, and the Enchanted Glow Along Parade. Hunt for buried treasure at the Treasure Island walk-through experience. Follow Dorothy as she is swept from Kansas to the Emerald City. Help Alice through the Queen of Heart’s Blacklight Maze to catch the White Rabbit. See what Dinosaurs do after dark at the Dino Glow Experience. Wander through the Enchanted Forest, with a glowing wonderland of towering trees and oversized flowers.

Guests can play by day and experience family-friendly park attractions, plus special fall entertainment, then glow by night in a whole new light. Fun fall décor and outdoor picture-book settings provide plenty of Instagram-worthy spots. Discover an underwater marvel 20,000 leagues under the sea, catch a fairytale remix with Mother Goose, and join the 3 little pigs for an adventure on the scenic railroad. 

Glow by Night is an immersive experience, with more lights, more glow, and more nighttime outdoor fun. Explore amazing glow-in-the-dark experiences throughout the festival including thousands of glowing lights, massive jack-o-lanterns, a giant glowing pumpkin tree, costumed characters, glow-in-the-dark mini-golf, and glow-in-the-dark dinosaurs. End the night with a glowing nighttime parade featuring new themed floats and favorite storybook characters, dancing their way through the festival.

Discover plenty of nighttime family-friendly experiences on acres of natural beauty, happening Friday through Sunday, Sept. 16 – Oct. 29.

For tickets and activity schedules, visit www.stonemountainpark.com.

20TH ANNUAL PARTY IN THE KITCHEN

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/15/23

Open Hand Atlanta to Host 20th Annual Party in the Kitchen at American Spirit Works, Sept. 28

Annual fundraiser flashes back to the neon decade with live music, crafted cocktails, exquisite cuisine, and captivating auctions in support of Open Hand Atlanta

Open Hand is celebrating 20 years of its largest annual fundraiser, Party in the Kitchen, taking place at The Stave Room at American Spirit Works on Thursday, Sept. 28, from 7- 10 p.m. This year, the event will honor Chef Gerry Klaskala, who has generously supported Open Hand for 20 years and has dedicated more than 9 years as a Chef Chair of Party in the Kitchen.

Hosted by Chef Kevin Rathbun and Chef Peter Kaiser, along with Co-Chairs Marlene Alexander and Butch Whitfield,
guests are invited to indulge in Atlanta’s premier culinary social occasion, showcasing 20 of Atlanta’s finest chefs. DJ Twitch and DJIT will take guests back into the decade of MTV, shoulder pads, and big hair as the evening pays tribute to 1988, Open Hand’s founding year, with an unforgettable evening full of entertainment, flavorful food, master mixology and live and silent auctions.

“We are so honored to have Marlene Alexander and Butch Whitfield joining our chef co-chairs Chef Peter Kaiser and Chef Kevin Rathbun for this year’s event,” said Open Hand Executive Director Matthew Pieper. “Not only are they raising critical funds for our mission, but they are also paying tribute to our founding in the 1980s.”

Exquisite culinary masterpieces will be created by famous local chefs such as Kevin Rathbun, Chris Hall,
Peter Kaiser, Ian Winslade, Doug Turbush, Stephen Herman, and others. Attendees will have the opportunity to not only savor delectable food and cocktails, but can also bid on a diverse selection of luxury items, ranging from exclusive travel experiences to captivating entertainment and elegant fine dining packages.


Open Hand will host a Patron Party before the main event for VIP guests in the American Spirit Works Courtyard beginning at 5:30 p.m. Patron ticket prices start at $750 and include access to the main event. Attendees will have the chance to preview live and silent auction items, as well as the opportunity to mingle with Atlanta’s celebrity chefs. 


Party in the Kitchen raises much-needed funds to support Open Hand’s programs which provide access to home-delivered, health-promoting meals as well as nutrition education to those living with or disabled by chronic disease, homebound seniors and at-risk youth and families.

Tickets to Party in the Kitchen are on sale now and can be purchased for a special rate of $250 through August 25 before the price increases to $300 per ticket. For information on sponsorship packages or to purchase tickets, visit PartyintheKitchen.org.

WILD HEAVEN 13TH ANNIVERSARY AND OKTOBERFEST BASH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/15/23

Saturday, September 23 11 am

Prost! It’s time to raise a stein not only for Wild Heaven’s 13th anniversary, but for their “beer-loved” Oktoberfest celebration. On Saturday, September 23, 2023, the highly-anticipated German tradition will be in full force at Wild Heaven’s Avondale location (135B Maple St, Avondale Estates, GA 30002) from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. At the Wies’n, guests can expect traditional German food from Chef Carla Fears accompanied by live German music and a stein hoisting competition. In honor of the brewery’s 13th birthday, guests can pick up a commemorative stein and be the first to try their limited-edition 13 anniversary beer a very special blend of barrel-aged treats that will be truly one-of-a-kind. Available on draft and in bottles. Revelers that bring their own stein can take advantage of $4 refills. Wild Heaven’s 13th anniversary stein and limited-edited anniversary beer will also be available at the Westend location. For more information, visit https://wildheavenbeer.com. 

A SEPTEMBER TO REMEMBER AT THE DISTILLERY OF MODERN ART

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/15/23

September events below!

Stretch that Weekend Feeling—  Sunday, September 17, 2023 at 11 a.m.

Stretch that weekend feeling with a yoga class at Distillery of Modern Art, an amalgamation of a distillery, gallery, event space, covered patio, and cocktail lounge that is located in the heart of Chamblee. On Sunday, September 17th beginning at 11 a.m., Cherri McCallister, owner of breathe.yoga studio will host a traditional yoga class welcoming all skill levels at the beautiful, art-filled space. After the class, attendees can toast their mind and body experience with Distillery of Modern Art’s craft cocktails. The class is $12 per person. Attendees are required to bring their own mat and water. To register or for more information, visit  https://distilleryofmodernart.com/our-events or call 404-482-2663. 

Sip & Scent Candle-Making Class— Sunday, September 17, 2023 at 2:30 p.mIt’s back-to-school season, so there’s no better time to learn the art of candle-making at Distillery of Modern Art during its Sip & Scent class on on Sunday, September 17, 2023. Beginning at 2:30 p.m., class goers will be greeted with a cocktail from the award-winning distillery, cocktail lounge, and gallery before a seasoned instructor leads an interactive, educational and fun experience. Participants will explore different waxes, wicks, candle care and pouring along with choosing fragrances and essential oils to create a one-of-a-kind soy and coconut wax candle in a highball glass. Not only will candlemakers leave with a new set of skills, but they will receive elegant packaging materials to safely take their custom candle home. Sip & Scent is for ages 21 and up. For more information or to purchase tickets starting at $67, visit  https://distilleryofmodernart.com/our-events. 

From Grain to Glass: An In-Depth Distiller’s Tour—Saturday, September 23, 2023 at 3 p.m.Experience the captivating allure of spirits that leave everyone craving more at Distillery of Modern Art’s exclusive Disiller’s Tour. On Saturday, September 23, 2023, Distillery of Modern Art, a local art gallery and cocktail lounge, invites guests to join in on a comprehensive journey through the art of distillation, guided by head distiller Matt Grief. Starting at 3 p.m., Grief will share his extensive knowledge on the technical side of distilling and the ‘hows’ and ‘whys’ of each choice along the way that ensure the creation of a perfect spirit. Beginning and ending with a Distillery of Modern Art cocktail, the tour includes 8 tastings of both finished and unfinished spirits as well as charcuterie from the beloved Spotted Trotter. For ages 21 and up, tickets are $55. For more information about Distillery of Modern Art, visit www.distilleryofmodernarat.com or call 404-482-2663. 

Distillery of Modern Art Hosts Burlesque Basics—Sunday, September 24, 2023 at 2 p.m.Try a hand at burlesque with Burlesque Basics at Distillery of Modern Art on Sunday, September 24 beginning at 2 p.m. Critically celebrated and award-winning teachers from The Atlanta School of Burlesque will start by walking burlesque beginners through the history of the sensual dance style. Welcoming all skill levels, Zara Estelle will teach fundamental Burlesque movements and walks, resulting in a short routine. Dance enthusiasts who have built up an appetite learning new skills can indulge in a savory charcuterie from The Spotted Trotter and sip on the latest summer cocktails from Distillery of Modern Art. Attendees must wear appropriate shoes such as dance shoes or strapped-toe shoes with a 2-to-3-inch heel, jazz flats, salsa shoes or barefoot. Attendees are encouraged to bring water. Tickets are $15. To register or for more information, visit  https://distilleryofmodernart.com/our-events or call 404-482-2663. 

Cocktails & Conversation Returns with Focus on Employment Inclusion— Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at 6 p.m.

Distillery of Modern Art, a fusion of a distillery, gallery, event space and cocktail lounge, is set to host its next thought-provoking discussion in its Cocktails & Conversation series, focusing on Employment Inclusion on Wednesday, September 27. Beginning at 6 p.m., attendees are invited to enjoy craft cocktails and engage in a lively discussion with the founders of the Kyle Pease Foundation, Chief Executive Officer Kyle Pease and Executive Director Brent Pease, as they delve into the topic of improving support for disabled and minority communities in the professional sphere. The Kyle Pease Foundation is known for its work in raising awareness and funds to promote success for persons with disabilities through sports and competition. Adding depth to the conversation, Kristina Echols, Strategy Consultant in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Accenture, will share her experience in creating and maintaining inclusive workspaces. Cocktails & Conversations: Employment Inclusion at Distillery of Modern Art is for ages 18 and up. Tickets are available for purchase for $5 at https://distilleryofmodernart.com/our-events/. 

GEORGIA PLANT SWAP AND SALE PULLMAN YARDS – SEPT 30

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/15/23

Sept 30, 2023 (Saturday 1-5pm)

Pullman Yards

SWAPPING: Bring your plants, cuttings, seeds to trade with others in a box. Helpful to have them labeled whether in soil, wet paper napkin in baggie, or wrapped in moss. There’s designated swap and free plant areas for community (No Selling in these areas). Send a message to volunteer. Spread the word and see you there!!

APPLY TO SELL (Keep checking for future events)

FB Events Page: Georgia Plant Trade and Sales

FB Group: Georgia Plant Trade and Sales

IG @GeorgiaPlantTradeandSales

TikTok @GeorgiaPlantTradeSales

Event site: Facebook

THE SOUTHEAST’S LARGEST DOODLE DOG PARTY IS BACK AT HALCYON

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/15/23

Celebrate International Doodle Dog Day on Sept. 24 with a Pooch Parade, giveaways and more

Doodles, poodles and their furry friends and family are invited to the best paw-ty of the year, Halcyon’s Doodle Dog Day on Sunday, Sept. 24 from 1 to 4 p.m. Furkids Animal Rescue and Shelter, Georgia’s largest no-kill animal shelter and rescue organization, will also be onsite for attendees to meet adorable pups who are searching for their forever family and home.

Guests can check in at the Halcyon tent on the Village Green to pick up free dog swag and the schedule of dog-friendly events. At 2:30 p.m., watch the Pooch Parade sponsored by Unexpected Pooch, full of wagging tails and prizes for Unexpected Trick, Unexpectedly Rowdy, Unexpected Hairdo, Unexpected Talent, Unexpected Owner/Pup Lookalike and Unexpected Best in Show. An abundance of doggy samples and treats will be available from Halcyon’s many dog-friendly restaurant patios and shops, including free pup cups from Kilwins. Guests can also expect free dog caricatures, a training demonstration by Dog Training Elite Northeast Atlanta and vendors such as Wag Board’s charcuterie boards for dogs and Unexpected Pooch. 

Free parking is available in the parking deck. Neighbors are encouraged to use rideshare apps or the Big Creek Greenway. For full event details, please visit the Facebook event page. For the latest information on Halcyon, upcoming events and a roster of retailers and restaurants, visit www.visithalcyon.com or follow @VisitHalcyon on Instagram and Facebook.

THE AVENUE PEACHTREE CITY’S ANNUAL GOLF CART SHOW 

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/15/23

Saturday, September 23 10 am

The Peachtree City community is invited to bring their custom or decorated golf carts to The Avenue for a chance to take home a trophy and bragging rights. Golf carts will compete to be voted “Best in Show” in two categories–business and individual–by center guests. The winner of the individual category will also win a $500 shopping spree at the center.

As a free event, open to the public, community members can stop by to check out the carts on display and vote for their favorite cart. In addition, guests can enjoy tons of fun with putt-putt golf, browse vendors, enter giveaways and more.

REGISTRATION: Golf cart owners interested in displaying their carts can register at bit.ly/45U5hyU. Golf cart check-in is between 8:30-9:30 a.m.

MIDNIGHT MARKET ATL SEPTEMBER 2023

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/12/23

Septmber 15 – September 16

Atlantic Station

Lace up your skates and get your taste buds ready for the ultimate foodie nightlife event! Midnight Market is back for its second (and final) Atlanta event of the year on September 15 & 16 at the Atlantic Station Pinnacle Lot! After the success of the June event, Midnight Market is going to feature an expanded 80ft x 60ft roller rink with free skate rentals sponsored by Lolli Wines!


This curated 21 and older experience, is perfect for foodies seeking an unforgettable night of eating, dancing, activities, and supporting local small business!. DJ J Fuse and DJ Ufoso will be providing the soundtrack to an endless selection of “Small Bites for a Small Price.” That means that all menus items are capped at $8 and each vendor offers a $5 Midnight Market special. That’s right! You can indulge in a variety of international bites from some of the area’s most popular vendors, including gourmet egg rolls from the Egg Roll Boyz, tacos from Chicas Birria, Hawaiian Cuisine from Hapa Kitchen, Vietnamese BBQ from Pho Cue, incredible vegan dishes from 7Suns 2Moons, and many many more! Try a little bit of everything and go back for your favorites after a drink or two!


With specials at the bars from open to close, the drinks flow just as easily as the good times! Pro Tip: Come with a group to divide and conquer! Grab drinks at the bar first, then have everyone split up and order food. Come back together and share the feast. Skate a little or dance it off, then go back for more! It’s the best way to maximize your experience.

“The team is so excited to bring this event back to Atlanta! Midnight Market is more than just a food festival it’s an experience,” said the event’s founder Alysis Vasquez. “If you’re not coming to the event ready to EAT and try new things… then you’re not doing it right!”

Don’t miss out on the last late night foodie event of the year! Tickets for the event are available now and they’re selling fast. We’re expecting to sell out before the event, so don’t miss out!

TICKETS can be purchased on eventbrite at the link- Midnight Market ATL

EL SUPER PAN AT THE BATTERY TO HOST NATIONAL MOFONGO DAY CELEBRATION ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/11/23

Hispanic Heritage Month Event Set To Showcase Creations from Lineup of Esteemed Chefs

Portion of Proceeds To Benefit Ser Familia

El Super Pan, the lively Latin kitchen and bar from Puerto Rican Chef Hector Santiago, will host a National Mofongo Day celebration on Sunday, September 24 at the restaurant’s location at The Battery (455 Legends Pl #862), organized by Taste Network. Celebrated during Hispanic Heritage Month, National Mofongo Day honors Puerto Rico’s national dish, which  features ingredients such as pork, garlic, olive oil, broth, and of course, the main ingredient, plantain. The event at El Super Pan will marry the robust flavors of Mofongo with the culinary artistry of an acclaimed lineup of chefs, immersive cocktail experiences and Spanish wines. Participating international talent will include National Mofongo Day Founder Jose Mendin of Pubbelly (Miami), Host Chef Hector Santiago of El Super Pan (Atlanta), Andre Gomez of Jose Sucio (Atlanta), Julio Delgado of Fogón and Lions (Atlanta), Santiago Gomez of Palo Santo (Atlanta), Cesar Zapata of Phuc Yea (Miami), Xavier Pacheco of Bacoa & Los Guapos (Puerto Rico), Fernando Desa of Goya Foods (New Jersey), Justin Sutherland of Handsome Hog (St. Paul) and Brady Lowe of Taste Network.

Established by celebrity Chef Jose Mendin, National Mofongo Day expands upon the plantain-based recipe by inviting guests to engage with Puerto Rican culture. The tasting event at El Super Pan will do just that by showcasing vibrant creations from a remarkable roster of Latin culinary experts. The evening’s festivities will include exclusive cocktail experiences, expertly crafted to complement the delightful Mofongo dishes including a specially brewed beer from Wrecking Bar Brewpub. The standup tasting experience will emulate the lively streets of San Juan with the Jim Beam® Lechón A La Varita whole roasted pig experience, savory and sweet libations from Bacardi Reserva Ocho, prestigious Spanish wines hailing from Ribera del Duero and Rueda and more.

The event will take place at El Super Pan (The Battery) on Sunday, September 24 from 5-9pm. Tickets are now available for $85 per person. A portion of the event’s proceeds will be donated to Ser Familia, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Latin families through educational initiatives, community engagement and family services. For more information, please visit www.tastenetwork.com/mofongo. 

SIP, SHOP AND STROLL AT THE BUCKHEAD FINE ARTS FESTIVAL

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/11/23

Fun-Filled Weekend With Sprawling Artist Market, Live Music, Variety of Food Trucks and Much More

Free to Attend on Saturday, September 16 and Sunday, September 17, 2023

Held in the heart of Buckhead, the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces will once again present the Buckhead Fine Arts Festival on Saturday, September 16 and Sunday, September 17, 2023. The two-day, outdoor arts festival will feature approximately 100 painters, photographers, sculptors, metalworkers, glass artists, jewelers and more. Festival goers can celebrate the arrival of fall, while shopping, strolling, enjoy artist demonstrations and DJ sets from Captains of Revelry. The festival will also have a variety of food and beverage offerings from vendors and the merchancts in Buckhead Village. Free to attend, the Buckhead Fine Arts Festival (259 Buckhead Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30305) is open to all ages, and leashed dogs are welcome. For more information visit  http://buckheadartsfestival.com  or www.affps.com.