IMMERSIVE GAMEBOX LAUNCHES SOCCER ARCADE TURNING GLOBAL SOCCER ENERGY INTO A COMPETITIVE EXPERIENCE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/18/26

Free Play Day 6/12

 Immersive Gamebox – the global leader in immersive group gaming – announces Soccer Arcade, a brand-new competitive social experience inspired by the energy of the highly anticipated World Cup. Launching on June 1 for a limited time, Soccer Arcade invites fans and families to celebrate the tournament, represent their country and climb a global leaderboard for a chance to win a $10,000 grand prize. 

Designed to capture the pulse of match day, Soccer Arcade puts teams of 2–6 players at the center of the action, transforming them into the controllers inside signature Gameboxes. Powered by cutting-edge 3D motion tracking, projection mapping, and touch-sensitive walls, players compete across a series of fast-paced mini-games — no controllers required.

Key Game Features:

  • Compete Across Soccer-Inspired Mini-Games: Players choose their nation, customize their avatar, and battle through multiple rounds of interactive challenges inspired by the excitement and chaos of soccer tournaments. Games include Headers, where players compete to score the most headed goals; Goalie, where participants dive to block shots; and Dribbler, where teams navigate obstacle-filled soccer courses together.
  • Chaotic Bonus Challenges: Additional rounds like Human Foosball and Streaker Security add unexpected twists as players race to stop pitch invaders before they reach the ball. 
  • Final Team Showdown: After individual rounds, teams unite for a final challenge, working together to keep multiple virtual soccer balls in play for as long as possible.
  • Limited Time Only: Soccer Arcade will be available at all Immersive Gamebox locations in the U.S. between June 1, 2026 – July 19, 2026 with bookings opening today. Reserve your spot now at https://www.immersivegamebox.com/en-US/soccer-arcade.

To kick off USA’s first match of the series, Immersive Gamebox will host a special Free Play Day on June 12, where anyone wearing a soccer jersey can play Soccer Arcade completely free of charge across all U.S. locations. The event will operate on a walk-in-only basis, with guests grouped together to maximize gameplay capacity. Spaces will be limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, while guests unable to secure a slot on the day will receive exclusive return offers and discounts for future bookings.

As part of the launch, players across the U.S., UK, Canada, France, Germany, and Australia will have the chance to compete on a global leaderboard, with the competition culminating on July 19, the day of the 2026 World Cup Final. The group sitting top of the global leaderboard will win the $10,000 grand prize, turning every session into a chance to climb the ranks and claim victory.

“At a time when soccer’s energy is reaching new heights, we set out to create a fast, social, and highly replayable experience that captures the spirit of the sport,” said Lisa Paton, CEO of Immersive Gamebox. “Whether players are lifelong fans or just in it for the fun, Soccer Arcade invites people to jump straight into the game and compete together. With the added excitement of a $10,000 prize on the line, there’s real stakes behind every shot, save, and goal – making every session as competitive as it is unforgettable.”

Soccer Arcade builds on Immersive Gamebox’s growing portfolio of hit experiences, incorporating significant cultural events and popular IPs like Netflix’s Squid Game, Paramount’s Paw Patrol, and Warner Brothers Batman into arcade-style gameplay with social competition. With no need for prior gaming experience, the game is designed to appeal to a broad audience– from casual players to competitive thrill-seekers.

CREATIVE TEAM BEHIND WESTSIDE MOTOR LOUNGE TO OPEN POP-UP CONCEPT AT THE KROG DISTRICT – OPENING JUNE 18!

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/13/26

LikeMinds Will Be an Inclusive Space to Gather With Your People- Different Stories, Same Frequency

Featuring Live Music, Craft Cocktails and Food, Curated Vinyl Program, Billiards, and More

The Krog District will welcome a new pop-up concept this spring. That concept is LikeMinds, an inclusive and inviting space that is founded on the common thread that unites us all, whether it is immediately recognizable or not. Different journeys, same destination.  The pop-up, slated for a limited 120-day run, is fueled by a collective of Atlanta hospitality veterans for a high-energy experience rooted in music, food, and community.

Located adjacent to the BeltLine Eastside Trail, the 14,700-square-foot space (12,000 indoor, with an additional 2,700 outdoor) is LikeMinds, a concept led by Kelly Campbell and powered by teams from Southern Culinary & Creative, Smith’s Olde Bar, Frazie’s Meat & Market, Bunker Design, and other Atlanta partners. LikeMinds aims to offer a thoughtfully curated social venue that expands on the creative vision behind Westside Motor Lounge—Atlanta’s favorite adult playground known for its expansive indoor-outdoor spaces, curated menus, and the jazz kissa listening bar, Echo Room. 

But LikeMinds will be more than just an extension of Westside Motor Lounge- it is a brand new concept, envisioned by Campbell’s team over the last several months.  Open 7 days a week, LikeMinds will be a vibrant space, steeped in programming developed by Beau Nolen of Smith’s Olde Bar with regularly scheduled live music, guest DJs, a curated vinyl program, billiards and bar games, and an upgraded audio/visual setup for sports-viewing parties of all kinds. Additionally, LikeMinds will have a full menu led by Julian Hower of Smith’s and Mark Frazie of Frazie’s Meat and Market featuring Frazie’s Meat + Market sandos, sharables, and more.  On weekends, LikeMinds will introduce a brunch program designed by Hower and inspired by his Pho Cue concept, paired with a brunch beverage menu crafted by Dana Roberts of Westside Motor Lounge. Roberts is also designing the full bar program, which will feature craft and draft cocktails, spirit-free options, beer, wine, and THC beverages.

“This idea started with a simple goal—create a space where people can find their people,” says LikeMinds Co-Creator Kelly Campbell. “What makes LikeMinds special is the team behind it. This is a group with shared history, shared values, and a real passion for hospitality coming together to build something that only exists for a moment.”

LikeMinds is scheduled to open in late Spring in time to welcome the world to Atlanta.  The short-run “lightning in a bottle” nature of the project reflects a like-minded team of operators, each with their own established businesses, joining forces to create a can’t-miss summer destination.

“The LikeMinds team shares our belief that The Krog District serves as a place for connection and community,” said 26th Street Partners. “This pop-up concept aligns with our vision of creating an engaging, community-driven destination while shining a light on Atlanta businesses and brands, and we’re excited to have them on board for the summer.”

LikeMinds will be located at 112 Krog Street NE, Atlanta, GA in the former BrewDog space. For more information about LikeMinds or to inquire about private events and sign up for the newsletter, visit 

LikeMindsATL.com. Follow along on Instagram @LikeMindsATL for progress updates and details on all our programming. 

THE AVENUE WEST COBB TO HOST THIRD ANNUAL PAWS FEST FEATURING DOCKDOGS® COMPETITION

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/9/26

Free, two-day event to feature high-flying canine competitions, local vendors, live music, giveaways and family-friendly activities


The Avenue West Cobb will host its third annual, canine-friendly Paws Fest on Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day.

“We look forward to welcoming the community back for another exciting weekend of Paws Fest,”said Danielle Kronlein, marketing manager of The Avenue West Cobb. “The event has become a community favorite that brings together exciting competitions, family-friendly activities and the incredible energy these dogs and their owners bring each year.”

An exciting weekend experience for dog lovers, pet parents and families alike, Paws Fest will once again feature a series of high-flying canine competitions as part of the DockDogs® National Sportsmen’s Series, including the Big Air Wave competition, Extreme Vertical competition and Speed Retrieve competition. Attendees can watch the contests on both days at the following times:

Schedule for Saturday, May 16:

  • Onsite Registration/Practice – 10:00 a.m.
  • Big Air Wave #1 – 11:00 a.m.
  • Big Air Wave #2 – 12:30 p.m.
  • Big Air Wave #3 – 2:00 p.m.
  • Extreme Vertical Competition – 4:00 p.m.

    Schedule for Sunday, May 17:
  • Onsite Registration/Practice – 10:00 a.m.
  • Big Air Wave #4 – 11:00 a.m.
  • Big Air Wave #5 – 12:30 p.m.
  • Speed Retrieve Competition – 2:30 p.m.
  • Big Air Finals – 4:30 p.m. (Pro, Semi Pro, Contender & Amateur Finals)


    In addition to the DockDogs® competitions, Paws Fest will feature a variety of local vendors, giveaways, live entertainment and interactive activities throughout the weekend. Guests can enjoy on-site grooming from Zoomin Groomin, giveaways from Bark Street Petopia, custom pet portraits from Eye to Eye Portraits, live personalization from Dots Monogram & Gifts and pet accessories from Cattle Pup Co. Families can also enjoy a pet-themed craft area hosted by Kids Care, a coloring station and tattoo bar for kids, snowcones from Pelican’s SnoBalls, specialty mocktails from The Little Sober Bar and live musical performances throughout the weekend.

     

    For more information, please visit: http://avenuewestcobb.com/

LE MERIDIEN ATLANTA PERIMETER

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/4/26

Please connect me with a modern hotel close to major Atlanta attractions but offers a quiet escape. Recently John and I enjoyed a long weekend staycation up at the Le Meridien Atlanta Perimeter in Dunwoody! It is a sleek modern hotel that greets you with its modern vibes in the lobby and throughout but is also just minutes from access to all Atlanta has to offer! Plus, they have a wonderful on-site restaurant and bar to enjoy during your stay.

The automatic doors open to the lobby with modern touches, a gathering of lounge areas and tables dotted throughout. There is an inside fireplace for the cold months with a cozy book nook for reading and business center. There is also an outdoor fireplace with lounging patio and a conference table with eclectic lighting as the centerpiece!

Up in the rooms, you’re treated to modern yet comfortable vibes. We got a suite with a full table, cozy den area with TV and work desk. The bedroom had a beautiful artistic grey blue mural above the comfy king bed. The shower was spacious and bright, and we loved the quote on the full-length mirror! We also got a beautiful view out our window of the office building and space next door.

And it’s all about location at the Le Meridien Atlanta Perimeter! At this location, there’s the mall and surrounding attractions, bars, and restaurants but this can be your retreat from the downtown fray! Marta is just minutes from the hotel and gives you easy access to all metro attractions!

Amenities in the lobby also include a long Longitude 84 bar and lounge with bar bites and sensational cocktails, plus a happy hour M-F! Behind it is the beautiful Portico restaurant that is a dining destination boasting European inspired fare.

verything we tried @lemeridienatlanta’s @porticoatlanta and Longitude 84! 👀 Recently John and I enjoyed a weekend Staycation at Le Meridien Atlanta Perimeter and had some fabulous food and drinks so we thought we would share all of them with you! You can’t go wrong! #sponsored

Here is what we tried for the Happy Hour at Longitude 84 bar. It is Monday to Friday from 5 to 6 pm. They had a $10 sweet and boozy Old Fashioned on Friday. We also went for a few of the small bites from the creamy and earthy Beets & burrata. Chris the bartender recommended putting balsamic reduction on it and it was perfection. We also got the Earthy, savory, sweet Brussels sprouts and tangy crunchy onion rings!

As for dinner at the Longitude 84 bar, we started with the Spicy margarita with spicy jalapeno infused vodka with a sweet and tangy balance on the end. For bites we started with Mediterranean octopus is perfectly cooked and tender, huge hearty cannelloni bean and a fantastic tangy vinaigrette with lettuce and radish. John got the ATL lemon pepper wings that were crunchy outside and tender inside with the perfect amount of flavor. A surprise dish of the night was the Artisan flatbread. It was divine with tender steak, cheese, earthy mushroom and pesto.

For our main dish we split the Short rib that is super tender and fall off the bone, meaty, sweet and savory. It comes on top of creamy parsnip puree and sweet carrots and a savory demi glaze on the top. It was my favorite dish, and I paired it with the Le Meridien. A floral empress rose gin cocktail with tart prosecco, and lemon for balance. And we got treated for dessert with a cheesecake topped with chocolate. With that I enjoyed Chris’s special cherry chocolate Manhattan, and it tasted exactly as it sounds, chocolaty, sweet, tart, and boozy.

The second night we had dinner at the Portico Restaurant behind the bar and got an array of great dishes. The 1885 angus filet is super rich, served rare with a sear topped with peppercorn au pauvre that is rich with a hit of spice and a creamy, cheesy au gratin potato! My favorite dish of this dinner is the Day boat halibut is flaky hearty well-seasoned fish. It is topped with a creamy and earthy ravioli, lemon pepper seasoning and a fun bright succotash with peas, corn, mushroom, and tomato. And then there was an elevated take on a classic, chicken and dumplings! These are fun cheesy gnocchi like dumplings with rich green bean and corn succotash and the best marinated chicken thigh. I paired the meal with a delicious creamy and rich decaf espresso martini!

THE WORKS TO TRASNFORM INTO THE UPPER WESTSIDE’S SOCCER HEADQUARTERS THIS SUMMER

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/4/26

Experience eight weeks of “All The Soccer Things,” including live music, watch parties and giveaways 

The Upper Westside’s premier mixed-use destination, The Works is launching All The Soccer Things this summer, an eight-week immersive series with art, live musical performances, public watch parties, soccer giveaways and strategic collaborations with two key Atlanta soccer organizations. From die-hard supporters to casual fans, All The Soccer Things will transform The Works into the Upper Westside’s soccer headquarters, where the community will gather to celebrate the passion, pride and global spirit that soccer brings to Atlanta.

Throughout this series, people can come together at The Works to take part in the excitement, whether they’re lifelong fans or just discovering the game. 

All The Soccer Things festivities include:

  • Movie and Match Night (June 12): The Works is getting in the soccer spirit with two special screenings. Stop by the Camp Street Green at 4 p.m. for a screening of the family-friendly comedy “Kicking & Screaming,” followed by a watch party of the country’s first match, USA vs. Paraguay at 6 p.m. 
  • All The Soccer Things Kickoff (June 13): The Works is kicking off All The Soccer Things with a high-energy drum performance by Brazuka Percussion at 1 p.m. on Camp Street. Packed with intense spirit, this local drumline can be found in the fan zone at every Atlanta United soccer game. After the performance, be part of the kickoff as The Works hosts its first public soccer watch party of the summer, featuring:
    • 3 p.m. – Qatar vs. Switzerland and Brazil vs. Morocco  
    • 9 p.m. – Haiti vs. Scotland 

Celebrate the game, the community and the city all on one unforgettable day at The Works!

  • Watch Party (June 13, June 21 and July 19): Join The Works for game day as it hosts three public matchday watch parties throughout the summer.
  • June 13 at Camp Street Green
    • 3 p.m. – Qatar vs. Switzerland and Brazil vs. Morocco  
    • 9 p.m. – Haiti vs. Scotland 
  • June 21 at The Camp
    • 12 p.m. – Spain vs. Saudi Arabia and Belgium vs. Iran 
    • 6 p.m. – Uruguay vs. Cabo Verde and New Zealand vs. Egypt 
  • July 19 at The Camp
    • 3 p.m. – World Cup Final Match 
  • Game Face (June 24 and July 15): Show team pride in full color at this spirited face painting event! Guests are encouraged to stop by and get decked out in their team’s colors before catching the match on screen at one of the participating locations.

Ongoing programming includes:

  • Jersey Fridays (Every Friday in June and July): The community is invited to reptheirteam all summer long! Those who wear their soccer jersey every Friday in June and July can score special discounts at participating tenants at The Works, including Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, Your 3rd Spot, Chattahoochee Food Works, Dr. Scofflaw’s, American Axes, Love Train Antiques, and Chicheria Mexican Kitchen.
  • Summer Satur-daze Summer Music Series (Every Saturday in June and July): All summer long, The Works will feature live music celebrating the rich culture of the World Cup, including musicians from High Latin, TC Costello, Garden Variety Band, Black Lion, Orquestra MaCuba and Projeto Brasileiro.
  • Global Gear Merch Pop-Up: Don’t miss this pop-up shop featuring licensed FIFA merchandise, soccer apparel and accessories. The Global Gear Merch Pop-Up will open in May for fans looking to gear up.
  • Spirit on The Spur Art Wall: Snap a photo at The Works’ custom soccer-themed mural on The Spur, created by local chalk artist Jessi Queen and inspired by the spirit and energy of Atlanta.

Grand Prize Giveaway: Culminating the summer celebration, one lucky person will win the All The Soccer Things grand prize giveaway on July 19, valued at over $5,000. This massive prize includes officially licensed FIFA World Cup merchandise and four tickets to the Atlanta United vs. Inter Miami game on Oct. 17 in a 100 Level premium suite with complimentary food and drinks. Participants can enter to win by signing up for The Works newsletter via theworksatl.com.

Throughout All The Soccer Things, The Works will partner with local organizations to bring this programming to life, including Soccer in the Streets, a local nonprofit focused on making soccer accessible to Atlanta’s youth through soccer training, character development and employability programs, and All Stripes, an Atlanta United fanbase dedicated to local soccer fans in the LGBTQ+ community. 

“Soccer has an incredible way of bringing people together, and that’s exactly what this partnership with The Works represents,” said Catalina Dunn, Marketing Manager at Soccer in the Streets. “The Works’ All the Soccer Things programming helps create meaningful opportunities for our community, culture, and the shared love of the game.”

For a full lineup of events during All The Soccer Things, visit the event on The Works’ website and follow The Works on Instagram and Facebook.

MAKE MEMORIES IN MAY AT THE WORKS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/3/26

Enjoy a month full of celebrating Cinco de Mayo, Mother’s Day and more

The Works is kicking off May with a lineup of events celebrating the Kentucky Derby, Cinco de Mayo, Mother’s Day and more. From the return of Fox Bros Bar-B-Q and Chicheria Mexican Kitchen’s Smoke & Spice Block Party to live music, watch parties, taco tastings and family-friendly experiences at Chattahoochee Food Works and Your 3rd Spot, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

The full May events lineup is outlined below:

Spring Happy Hour Music Series at Fox Bros Bar-B-Q

May 1 and May 8 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Kick off the weekend with Fox Bros on Friday, May 1 and Friday, May 8 for its Spring Happy Hour Music Series! Enjoy live music, drinks and good company. For more information, visit the event page.

Unlimited Gourmet Taco Tasting Experience at Chicheria

Saturday, May 2 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Chichería Mexican Kitchen now offers an Unlimited Gourmet Taco Tasting Experience each week. Available every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the experience features a rotating selection of chef-crafted tacos served continuously at the table. Guests can enjoy a variety of flavors, including Baja Fish, Coconut Shrimp, Carne Asada and more, all prepared on handmade blue corn tortillas pressed fresh daily. The tasting also includes chips, dips and refreshing agua frescas. For more information, visit the event page.

Kentucky Derby Event at Your 3rd Spot

Saturday, May 2 from 1 to 11 p.m.

Celebrate the Kentucky Derby at Your 3rd Spot on Saturday, May 2, with Mint Juleps in hand and all the excitement of the race on their 15-foot screens. Grab your biggest hat, cheer on your favorite horse and enjoy an unforgettable day of games, great food and time with friends. For more information, visit the event page.

Kentucky Derby Watch Party at Chattahoochee Food Works

Saturday, May 2 from 6 to 10 p.m.

Grab your best Derby hat and join us at Chattahoochee Food Works for one of the most fun race days of the year. We’ll be streaming the Kentucky Derby live in the food hall so you can watch the race while enjoying great food, drinks, and the festive Derby atmosphere. Sip on Mint Juleps, bourbon specials, and other Derby-inspired cocktails from Center Bar, grab bites from your favorite food vendors, and dress to impress in your best race day look. For more information, visit the event page.

Cinco de Mayo at Chattahoochee Food Works

Tuesday, May 5 from noon to 9 p.m.

Join Chattahoochee Food Works on Tuesday, May 5, for Cinco de Mayo. Enjoy live mariachi from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., tequila and margarita features at Tequila & Tapas, and tacos from Taqueria La Luz. Come by for a fun, easy-going night with good food, drinks and music. For more information, visit the event page.

Cinco de Mayo at Chicheria Mexican Kitchen

Tuesday, May 5 from 4 to 10 p.m.

Join Chicheria Mexican Kitchen for Cinco de Mayo! Starting at 4 p.m., enjoy a $40 Mexico City-style buffet featuring over 20 offerings, including their award-winning sweet corn esquites, steak and shrimp tacos on fresh, handmade blue corn tortillas made in-house daily and other signature dishes. Plus, enjoy $5 Jimador tequila shots, $8 tequila shot specials and live music from 6 to 9 p.m. Walk-ins only. A limited regular menu will also be available. For more information, visit the event page.

Mother’s Day at Your Third Spot

Sunday, May 10 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Celebrate Mother’s Day at Your 3rd Spot with a heartfelt experience featuring a six-course Taste & Connect Menu, a complimentary MOMosa for every mom and 165+ curated experiences designed to spark connection and create lasting family memories. Family-friendly fun all day! For more information, visit the event page.

Mom’s Day Out at Chattahoochee Food Works

Sunday, May 10 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Join Chattahoochee Food Works this Mother’s Day for a celebration filled with momosas, special bites and memorable moments. Enjoy Mother’s Day food specials from select vendors, take photos with mom and treat her to a day out at CFW. The first 50 moms to arrive will receive a special Chattahoochee Food Works self-care bag. Spend the day eating, sipping and celebrating. For more information, visit the event page.

Chattahoochee Food Works Fifth Anniversary

Saturday, May 16 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Chattahoochee Food Works is turning 5 years old! Enjoy an anniversary event filled with face painting, balloon animals, magicians, a bubble party, stilt walkers, themed photo ops, CFW merch and nonstop entertainment. With music rotating throughout the event from DJs to a live band, it’s all set to be a high-energy celebration of five years of food, fun and community. For more information, visit the event page. 

Smoke & Spice Block Party

Saturday, May 16 from 2 to 6 p.m.

Join Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q and Chichería Mexican Kitchen for the second annual Smoke & Spice Block Party, a high-energy spring afternoon featuring smoked meats, coastal Mexican bites, craft margaritas, ice-cold beer and live music, all set against the vibrant backdrop of The Works. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the event page.