THE FRENCH MARKET HEADS TO BUCKHEAD VILLIAGE THIS SEPTEMBER

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/14/23

Saturday, September 9

Noon-7pm

Francophiles rejoice – the French Market is back and heading to Buckhead Village! On Saturday, September 9 from noon to 7pm, Buckhead Avenue will transform into a Parisian-inspired, open-air market bringing together regionally and locally-owned French and French-inspired businesses including Ade by Femi, Lisa’s Creperie, Maison B. Encore, Ché René Macaron, diptyque and Saint Germain Bakery & Cafe, all offering visitors the chance to stroll and shop curated selections of designer goods, art, home furnishings and French fare. This year’s festivities will also include live music, crafts and entertainment for all ages, including performances from The Bonaventure Quartet jazz band, Théâtre du Rêve and the Atlanta Petanque Club. 

The French Market is free and open to the public. A wristband will be required to purchase food & beverages from participating vendors – wristbands are now available online for $5 and will be available for $10 beginning September 5. Children 12 & under are not required to purchase a wristband. All event proceeds directly support the Alliance Française of Atlanta, a nonprofit whose mission is to promote the French language and francophone cultures through educational and cross-cultural programs. Businesses who are interested in becoming a market vendor can visit www.frenchmarketatl.com/vendors.

DRAGON CON’S DRAGON AWARDS PUBLISHES ITS 2023 BALLOT

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/13/23

Eight Annual Awards Include 11 Categories, Reduced from Fifteen, To Better Reflect Fans’ Interests and Better Recognize the Best in Literature, Comics, Gaming and Filmed Entertainment.

Award Winners Will Be Announced at Dragon Con over Labor Day Weekend.

Dragon Con’s Dragon Awards, a fan’s choice awards program to recognize the very best in science fiction and fantasy literature, comics, gaming, and filmed entertainment, has published its 2023 ballot.

Winners of the Dragon Awards are selected by fans – not just Dragon Con members or convention attendees – and voting is free.  You can view the ballot here.

Reflecting changes in past years’ voting patterns, the Dragon Awards has made several changes to the assortment of voting categories, reducing the number of categories from 15 to 11. Specifically: 

·         “Best Media Tie-In Novel” and “Best Military Science Fiction/Fantasy Novel” categories have been eliminated. Books in these former categories may be entered in one of the five remaining novel-focused categories.   

·         “Best Comic Book” and “Best Graphic Novel” have been combined into a single category, “Best Comic Book or Graphic Novel.”

·         “Best Science Fiction or Fantasy PC / Console Game” and “Best Science Fiction of Fantasy Mobile Game” have been combined into a single category, “Best Digital Game.”

·         “Best Science Fiction or Fantasy Board Game” and “Best Science Fiction or Fantasy Miniatures / Collectable Card / Role-Playing Game” have been combined into one category, “Best Tabletop Game.”

·         Finally, the “Best Illustrative Book Cover” category has been added to more accurately reflect our roots and fandom in the Art community.

“From the start, we said we would be flexible and make changes that would help make the Dragon Awards a true accounting of the best in science fiction and fantasy, whether fans read it, watch it, or play it,” said convention co-chair David Cody.

In 2022, more than 7,000 fans cast ballots for Dragon Award winners, selected from among 93 properties in 15 categories covering the full range of fiction, comics, television, movies, video gaming, and tabletop gaming. 

All voting is done electronically and only via a ballot emailed to each confirmed voter. To vote, fans must first register on the Dragon Awards website: Register Here. Ballots are then emailed in batches every few days through August.

Fans have until Friday, Sept. 1 at 11:59 p.m., Eastern, to register. Voting ends 24-hours later on Saturday, Sept. 2 at 11:59 p.m., also Eastern.

Winners will be announced on Sunday, Sept. 3 at Dragon Con in downtown Atlanta. The annual Labor Day convention is scheduled this year from Aug. 31 to Sept. 4.

The ballot was selected in an open nomination process, in which more than 4,000 fans participated. Using the dedicated Dragon Awards website, fans were invited to nominate one (and only one) of their favorite properties in any or all the award categories. Nominations ran from November 2022 until July 19, 2023. The best and most popular of the nominated properties were elevated to the ballot.

Further details are available on the awards website: www.dragoncon.org/awards/. 

RED BULL UNLOCKED TO HOST CELEBRATION OF ATLANTA NIGHTLIFE ON SEPTEMBER 9

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/3/23

Bringing Together a Mashup of the City’s Diverse Bars, Clubs, Artists, and Experiences to Underground Atlanta for One-Night Only Tickets on Sale Now 

On Saturday, September 9th, Red Bull Unlocked is bringing a mashup of Atlanta’s greatest bars, clubs, experiences and artists together under one roof for the ultimate celebration of the city. Taking place at Underground Atlanta (50 Upper Alabama Street) in the heart of Downtown, the one-night only event will re-create the vibe and DNA of unique partners alongside a premium product experience, local and national artists, performers, DJs, and much more.

Atlanta’s own Bar Vegan, Slutty Vegan, Clermont Lounge, Future, Magic City, MJQ, PBR, Sister Louisa’s Church, Dolo’s Pizza, Peach Museum will join forces, offering event goers an unforgettable night filled with signature food, drink, live entertainment and plenty of surprises representing their unmatched offerings from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Promising one epic adventure, tickets for Red Bull Unlocked Atlanta are on sale for $10 for ages 21+ now for at win.gs/UnlockedATL. 

For more information and complete list of participating businesses and artists, visit www.redbull.com/UnlockedATL. Additional details about Red Bull Unlocked Atlanta including the full guest performer lineup will be announced in the coming weeks. Follow news and announcements for Red Bull Unlocked via the participating bars, clubs and #RedBullUnlocked. 

THE SUMMER FUN CONTINUES AT ATLANTIC STATION

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/3/23

Keep Good Times Rolling with Events at Atlantic Station Including…
The AVP Gold Series Atlanta Open, Visit Tampa Bay, Screen on the Green and More


Soak up the last of summer fun this August at Atlantic Station! The heart of Atlanta boasts a wide array of ticketed and complimentary events for everyone to enjoy. Kick back on the Atlantic Green and watch an outdoor movie, immerse in all things Tampa Bay with a chance to win a free trip, bring the kids for an interactive music class or shop local at the Creator’s Market. No matter the mood, Atlantic Station has a terrific variety for an event-filled August.

The Atlantic Station August Calendar of Events includes:

Friday, Aug. 4: THE AVP GOLD SERIES ATLANTA OPEN
Located at Pinnacle Lot | Friday, August 4, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. | Saturday, August 5, 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. EDT | Sunday, August 6, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. EDT.
Expect intense competition at the Pinnacle Lot Friday, Aug. 4 through Sunday, Aug. 6 when The Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP) returns to Atlantic Station for the marquee Gold Series. Join us for night sessions under the lights and AVP pros bringing the heat to earn the 1st Gold Series hardware of 2023. Ticket options include single sessions and full weekend passes for Premium, Club and General Admission, student discounts, group tickets and more! Visit here to learn more.

Tuesday, Aug. 8: TOT SPOT – ROCKIN’ TOTS WITH THE MUSIC CLASS
Located at Atlantic Green | 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. EDT.
Tot Spot is back with lots of free and fun activities for our littlest friends. Rock out with us on Aug. 8 and enjoy singing, dancing and the opportunity to experience many different instruments! Guests can expect snacks and fun for the whole family to enjoy. Visit here to learn more.

Thursday, Aug. 10: SCREEN ON THE GREEN: IN THE HEIGHTS (2021)
Located at Atlantic Green | 7:00 p.m. EDT.
Make outdoor movie viewing a new tradition this summer at Atlantic Station’s Screen on the Green! Each month this summer, a different family-friendly film will be featured on a large outdoor screen. Bring your blankets or chairs and choose your own place to sit on the lawn. Visit here to learn more.

Saturday, Aug. 12 and Sunday, Aug. 13: VISIT TAMPA BAY
Located Around Atlantic Station | 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. EDT.
Come spend a day with Visit Tampa Bay at Atlantic Station! Surround yourself with the immersive experience of all things Tampa, including special visits from the Tampa Bay Zoo, Busch Gardens and more. There will also be a free trip to Tampa Bay giveaway. Visit here to learn more.

Saturday, Aug. 19: TINY DOORS OPEN STUDIO
Located at the Tiny Doors Studio | 10 a.m. EDT.  
Come check out the Tiny Doors ATL studio and meet artist Karen Anderson Singer on the third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Inspired by street art conversations in Atlanta, Singer began creating custom 7-inch Tiny Doors in 2014 that celebrate, reflect, and respect their surrounding communities. Stop by to see works in progress, shop exclusive Tiny Doors merch, and view the retired door gallery! Visit here to learn more.

Every Weekend: CREATOR’S MARKET
Located Around Atlantic Green | Every Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. | Every Sunday 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. EDT | Friday, August 4 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. EDT.
Atlantic Station Creator’s Market returns with unstoppable creativity by kicking off a special Friday Night Market on Friday, Aug. 4 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.  Shop locally and celebrate Atlanta’s local artisans every Saturday (11 a.m. to 9 a.m.) and Sunday (12 p.m. to 7 p.m.). Find festive art, jewelry, couture and more, all while supporting the makers of the South. Visit here to learn more.

LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL WITH HALCYON’S AUGUST EVENTS LINEUP

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/3/23

Forsyth County’s mixed-use village invites the community to play, shop, dine and experience what’s new

The dog days of summer are here and to beat the scorching heat, Halcyon has planned a variety of events for everyone in the whole family to enjoy throughout August. At Forsyth County’s mixed-use village, guests can groove to live music every weekend, enjoy the weekly kids club, relax at Farm Animal Yoga and more. 

The full August events schedule is outlined below:

Halcyon Kids Club

Wednesdays in August from 10 a.m. – noon

Preschoolers are invited to play and make new friends each week at the free Halcyon Kids Club! The little ones can engage in a rotating menu of activities ranging from arts and crafts, dance, animal encounters, storytime, puppet shows, music and so much more. Themes and activities vary weekly and will be announced on Halcyon’s Facebook page and Instagram stories. A parent or guardian is required to stay with each child during the duration of the event. Afterward, enjoy lunch or a sweet treat at one of Halcyon’s kid-friendly restaurants. For more information, visit the Halcyon Facebook event page.

National Oyster Day at Ocean & Acre

Saturday, August 5 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Oh shucks, it’s National Oyster Day! Join Ocean & Acre to celebrate with $1 raw oysters and enjoy live music on the patio. Indulge in other delicious oyster dishes, including a fried oyster platter, chargrilled oysters and more. For more information, visit the  Halcyon Facebook event page. 

3rd Anniversary Celebration at Unexpected Pooch

Saturday, August 5 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

It’s time to put on pawty hats and wag tails because Unexpected Pooch is turning three! Bring your furry friends and join in the fun at the beloved pet boutique. Strike a pose in the Hawaiian-themed photoshoot spot, enjoy raffle baskets and exciting giveaways and treat your pup to a treat or new toy with special anniversary discounts. There will be fun for the little ones with face painting galore and paw-some cocktails for the adults to enjoy. For more information, visit @UnexpectedPooch on Instagram.

Groovin’ on the Green

Fridays and Saturdays in August from 6 – 9 p.m.

Celebrate the weekend with dancing and singing along to live musical performances on Village Green. Enjoy local musicians across a variety of genres playing top hits. Guests can treat themselves to a craft brew and groove to live music all around the village! Halcyon has an open container policy, however, outside food and beverages are prohibited. For more information, visit the Halcyon Facebook event page.

Cars and Coffee Hosted by Mercedes-Benz Club of America

Saturday, August 5 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Join the Mercedes-Benz Experience by RBM of Alpharetta and Fuel Coffee for a beautiful summer morning sipping on specialty coffee drinks, viewing Mercedes-Benz vehicles from a variety of years in the private lot next to Fuel and mingling with friends and other members of the Mercedes-Benz Club of America. Mercedes-Benz Experience by RBM of Alpharetta will be offering special discounts off merchandise for all Mercedes-Benz Club of America members. This event is open to all Mercedes-Benz owners. For more information or to register, visit the RBM Halcyon event page. 

Farm Animal Yoga

Saturday, August 12 at 9 and 10 a.m.

Mooove on over to Halcyon for Farm Animal Yoga, featuring animals from North Georgia Wildlife Park! Treat your mind and body to a session of yoga appropriate for all skill levels, accompanied by adorable furry friends. Participants must bring their own yoga mat and are welcome to pause and take photos with the animals during the session. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to fill out a waiver prior to class, visit the event page.

CELEBRATE NATIONAL PINBALL DAY IN ATLANTA ON AUGUST 1

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/29/23

With National Pinball Day (Aug. 1) around the corner, sharing a list of Metro Atlanta locations where you can get in on the action. Note: all of these locations have multiple machines. 

  • Eventide Brewing: Located in Grant Park, Eventide has carved a niche for itself as the neighborhood’s favorite go-to brewery. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or a newbie, there’s no better place to enjoy a pint and some pinball action. 1015 Grant St SE, Atlanta, GA 30315.
  • My Parent’s Basement: Nestled in the heart of Avondale Estates, My Parents Basement is more than just a quirky name — it’s the city’s premier pinball destination. With a dazzling array of machines, it offers enthusiasts and novices alike the ultimate pinball experience, solidifying its reputation as Atlanta’s pinball crown jewel. 22 North Avondale Road, Atlanta, GA 30002.
  • RePlay Arcade: Whether you’re a seasoned player or just diving in, their selection of games promises a fresh and exhilarating experience every time. 3700 Satellite Blvd., #9A, Duluth, GA 30096.
  • Schoolhouse Brewing: Dive into the world of pinball at Schoolhouse Brewing, the perfect spot for both amateurs and pinheads. And beginning in August, enthusiasts can test their skills at the brewery’s bi-weekly pinball tournaments. 840 Franklin Ct, Marietta, GA 30067.
  • The Blue Ghost Arcade: This Woodstock outpost is connecting an old generation of games with a new generation of players. 164 Towne Lake Pkwy, Woodstock, GA, 301881
  • Your 3rd Spot: A seamless blend of modern ambiance and gourmet delights awaits alongside pinball fun. 400 Chattahoochee Row, Atlanta, GA 30318.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY AT THE AVENUE WEST COBB

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/19/23

Get out of the summer heat with The Avenue West Cobb’s first Christmas in July event!

Tuesday, July 25 5-8pm

Hawaiian Santa! Guests can take selfies with Anna and Elsa, eat from delicious dessert food trucks and test your gift-wrapping and tree decorating skills in some friendly holiday competition. The event is free and open to the public. Reserve your spot, here.

Activities include:

·         Dessert trucks

·         Photos with Hawaiian Santa

·         Ballonists and face painting

·         Selfies with Anna and Elsa

·         Music spun by a DJ

·         Tree decorating and gift-wrapping competitions

·         Bounce house

PIEDMONT PARK ARTS FESTIVAL 2023 

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/17/23

Featuring an Expansive Artist Market, Music, Children’s Area, Food Trucks and More Free to Attend on Saturday, August 19 and Sunday, August 20, 2023

Recognized as one of the best outdoor festivals in Atlanta, the Piedmont Park Arts Festival returns to the heart of Midtown on Saturday, August 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, August 20, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Presented by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces and held in picturesque Piedmont Park, the festival will feature approximately 250 artists including painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metalworkers, glass blowers, jewelers, and crafters. Festival enthusiasts are also invited to enjoy live acoustic music, DJ sets from Captains of Revelry, a children’s play area, and a variety of festival food and drinks for all tastes. Free to attend, the event is open to all ages and dogs are welcome. For more information on the Piedmont Park Arts Festival (1215 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta, GA 30309), visit piedmontparkartsfestival.com or www.affps.com

FOURTH ANNUAL HALCYON’S GOT TALENT

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/13/23

 Watch brilliant young performers give it their all on July 27 at Forsyth County’s mixed-use village

Join Halcyon for an evening of artistic expression at the fourth annual Halcyon’s Got Talent on Thursday, July 27 from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Witness remarkable performances by talented youngsters from 10 to 18 years old as they showcase their musical talents vying for the ultimate victory and grand prize. 

Presented in partnership with Galaxy Music & Arts Studio of Alpharetta and sponsored by Renasant Bank, the community is invited to watch these young performers take the stage at Village Green. Photos of this year’s finalists show their true passion and dedication. 

As you sit back and revel in spectacular talent, enjoy culinary delights and treat yourself to a variety of food and beverages from Halcyon’s diverse selection of restaurants. Indulge in delicious meats and cheeses at the delectable European-style market Il Bottegone. Cool off from the summer heat with a refreshing, satisfying ice cream cone from Kilwins or a frozen treat from Popbar. 

This event is free and open to the public. Free parking is available in the parking deck. For full event details, please visit the Facebook event page here.

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.

SUMMERHILL KICKS OFF JULY WITH A TASTY LINEUP AND COMMUNITY EVENTS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/13/23

Soak Up All the Delectable Gems Found in the Summerhill Neighborhood

Summerhill has some exciting happenings this month to embrace the sizzling summer season. From new food destinations to back-to-school events, the highlights below are a sampling of what’s in store for July.

  • Highly anticipated Southern National at Summerhill is now open for business. The new restaurant serves globally inspired cuisine that is rooted in “authentic Southern cuisine,” curated by chef Duane Nutter. Greg Best and Paul Calvert have curated an equally impressive wine and cocktail menu.  Make reservations here. 
  • Junior’s in Summerhill has some great specials for July. The pizza joint is offering “The Fresh Prince” (pictured below) in regular, vegetarian, and vegan variations. In addition, Junior’s is featuring lunch specials Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Guests can choose from two one-topping slices and a soda for $8.50 or one one-topping slice, salad, and soda for $10.25. Guests are invited back on Tuesday evenings for trivia starting at 7 p.m.
  • Big Softie brings a taste of summer to Summerhill with peach sorbet, its July flavor of the month (pictured below). The ice cream shop’s soft serve is made with the best ingredients, including local Georgia dairy products and organic cane sugar.
  • On Saturday, July 15, the Summerhill Community Center branch of Chase Bank is hosting a back-to-school family event from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Families are invited to stop by to pick up a free backpack with school supplies and enjoy fun games, activities and entertainment.  
  • On Saturday, July 22, Organized Neighbors of Summerhill and the Summerhill Neighborhood Development Corporation will host the Summerhill Reunion Unity Festival. A more than 30-year tradition for the neighborhood, the festival will feature local music, food trucks, vendors, activities for kids, and more. The event will be held in Phoenix Park III from 12-8 p.m.