FIRST-EVER FANTASTIC HALLOWEEN BUBBLES UP FUN AT WORLD OF COCA-COLA

Posted by Liz and and John Attaway, 9/17/21

New Fanta Flavors, Spooky Moments and Special Features Haunt Atlanta Attraction
All Month Long; Adults-Only Evening Event Extends the Fun After Hours

 

This October, World of Coca-Cola is inviting families and friends to take part in the attraction’s first-ever Halloween takeover. Offered all month long with special activations on Saturdays and Sundays, the eerie experience includes a scavenger hunt to find a mystery Fanta flavor, an after-hours event for adults, ghostly performances and so much more. Guests are encouraged to get in the spooky spirit by wearing their best family-friendly costumes and looking out for festive frights and fall features among World of Coke’s regular exhibits and experiences. FANTAstic Halloween is included as part of every general admission ticket in October.

Haunted Hunt for a FANTAstic New Flavor

The FANTAstic Flavor Hunt challenges guests to search for hidden QR codes throughout World of Coca-Cola, each one a clue to a mysterious new Fanta flavor hitting shelves soon. The journey concludes in Taste It! where guests can unearth the secret and sample the latest Fanta flavor before it launches in 2022.

All the Treats, None of the Tricks

No ghoul goes thirsty, as Coca-Cola Freestyle serves three limited-edition mixes: Fanta Grape Goblin, Fanta Orange Jack-O-Lantern and Fanta Strawberry Scary Skull. Even more Fanta flavors are available on the Taste It! fountains, and seasonal concoctions can be sipped at the beverage bar.

Bottling Up Frightful Concoctions

The Bottle Works exhibit has been abandoned – or has it? Fans who dare to enter may encounter playful skeletons. On weekends, the mad scientist Dr. FANTAstic transforms the bottling plant into his personal lab. The doctor is mixing up something frighteningly delicious – peek inside to get a firsthand look at the creation of Coca-Cola’s most mystical drink yet.

Surprises and Disguises to Spare

Around every corner, fans will discover spooky surprises – from beastly backdrops for freaky photos, to ghoulish tales and live dance performances by costumed characters. Inside the Scent Discovery exhibit, guests can sniff and guess seasonal aromas that recall memories from Halloweens past and set the stage for unique flavors inside Taste It!

FANTAstic Halloween After Dark

On Thursday, October 14, World of Coca-Cola will open its doors for its first-ever, adults-only event from 7-10 p.m. The event will feature a DJ spinning spook-tacular tunes, dramatic Halloween-themed entertainment and a full bar with a “FANTAstic Halloween” specialty cocktail. Food will also be available for purchase. Tickets cost $35 and include two drink tickets for wine or beer. Costumes are welcome, and face coverings are required except in spaces designated for eating and drinking. Masks that fully cover the face and weapon-like props are not permitted. Guests must be 21 years or older to attend.

Safety First

The health and safety of World of Coca-Cola’s guests and employees are top priorities, and the attraction has adjusted operations in compliance with guidelines from health and government authorities. Precautions include reduced capacity, timed ticket entry, signage to promote social distancing, mandatory face coverings for all ambassadors and guests over the age of two, and enhanced cleaning routines throughout the attraction. More information is here.

FALL INTO FALL FESTIVALS WITH THE ATLANTA FOUNDATION FOR PUBLIC SPACES

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/13/21

Buckhead Fine Arts Festival (September 18-19)
Sandy Springs Artsapalooza (September 25-26)
Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival (October 2-3)
Fall Festival on Ponce (October 9-10)
Chastain Park Fall Arts Festival (November 6-7)

Buckhead Fine Arts Festival
Held in the heart of Buckhead, home to one of the city’s most enthusiastic art buying communities, the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces will once again present the Buckhead Fine Arts Festival on Saturday, September 18 and Sunday, September 19, 2021. The two-day fine arts festival will feature approximately 100 painters, photographers, sculptors, metalworkers, glass artists, jewelers and more. Festival goers can also soak up the sun and cityscape, while enjoying artist demonstrations and live acoustic music. The dynamic merchants in and surrounding the festival in the Buckhead Village will provide a variety of beverage and food offerings. Free to attend, the festival is rain or shine, open to all ages, and four-legged friends are welcome. For more information visit  http://buckheadartsfestival.com  or www.affps.com.
Sandy Springs Artsapalooza
Sandy Springs Artsapalooza returns on Saturday, September 25 and Sunday, September 26, 2021. Featuring more than 150 painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metal craft persons, glass blowers, jewelers and more, the festival will transform the beautiful tree-lined streets of Sandy Springs into an expansive outdoor art gallery. Festival goers will have the opportunity to view artist demonstrations, participate in hands-on art activities, and enjoy live acoustic performances. The award-winning, two-day festival will also have a children’s area, gourmet food trucks with healthy alternatives and beverages. The festival is free to attend, open to all ages, and dogs are welcome.  For more information about Sandy Springs Artsapalooza, please visit http://sandyspringsartsapalooza.com  or  www.affps.com.
Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival 
Join the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces as they celebrate the return of the Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival on Saturday, October 2 and Sunday, October 3, 2021. The two-day festival will once again be held in Atlanta’s picturesque Historic Fourth Ward Park that is conveniently located along the bustling Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail. Festival goers are invited to explore painting, photography, ceramics, glass, jewelry, woodwork and handcrafted items. The festival also features live music in the amphitheater, local food vendors, drinks, a children’s area, art demonstrations, games, and much more. The event is free to attend, open to all ages and dogs are welcome. For more information, visit  www.oldfourthwardparkartsfestival.com or www.affps.com.
Fall Festival on Ponce
Presented by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces, the Fall Festival on Ponce will be held on Saturday, October 9 and Sunday, October 10, 2021 in historic Olmsted Linear Park.  The two-day festival will feature 125 displays of local and regional fine art and crafts along with folk and outsider art.  While taking in the beautiful fall foliage and charming park, festival goers are invited to enjoy local food trucks, beverages, a children’s play area, live, acoustic music and much more.  The event is free to attend, open to all ages, and dogs are welcome.  For more information about the festival, please visit www.festivalonponce.com or www.affps.com.
Chastain Park Fall Arts Festival
The Chastain Park Fall Arts Festival, presented by the Atlanta Foundation For Public Spaces, returns to  Chastain Park in Buckhead on Saturday, November 6 and Sunday,  November 7, 2021. Featuring more than 185 talented painters, photographers, sculptors,  leather and metal craft persons, glass blowers, jewelers and  more, the  festival will transform Chastain Park into an expansive outdoor art gallery. Festival goers are invited to view artist  demonstrations, participate  in hands-on art  activities and enjoy live acoustic performances while taking in breathtaking fall scenery.  The  award-winning, two-day festival will also have a children’s play area in the  adjacent green space, gourmet food trucks,  beverages and more. The Chastain Park Fall Arts Festival is free to attend, open  to all ages, and dogs are welcome.  For more information, visit http://chastainparkartsfestival.com or  www.affps.com

LOVE, TITO’S BLOCK TO BLOCK AND FOOD WELL ALLIANCE TEAM UP TO REVITALIZE LOCAL GARDEN FOR REFUGEE AND IMMIGRANT GROWERS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/29/21

Volunteers Needed for Garden Service Project on Friday, September 10, 2021

 

WHO: Love, Tito’s Block to Block program has teamed up with Food Well Alliance to make significant enhancements to Decatur’s Kitchen Garden, a unique garden space in Atlanta for refugee and immigrant growers led by Global Growers Network in collaboration with the City of Decatur. The produce grown at this site reflects the diverse nationalities and agricultural heritage of the area.

WHAT: Outdoor enthusiasts, garden-obsessed, and those who just like to lend a hand, are all needed to take part in a single-day service project, which will include fun hands-on projects like, weeding the herb garden to prepare it for replanting, installing new debris bins around the garden, watering and mulching fruit trees, and more. For community members who are unable to volunteer but still want to get involved, the garden will be holding a garden tool drive and accepting new items like trowels, shovels, gloves, and soil, on the day of the project. These in-kind donations can be brought to Decatur’s Kitchen Garden on the same day as the service project. Sign up to volunteer and/or donate directly to Food Well Alliance below.

 

WHEN: Friday, September 10, 2021, from 8:30 am to 12 pm

 

WHERE: Decatur’s Kitchen Garden – 500 S Columbia Drive, Decatur, GA 30030

DANNY WIMMER PRESENTS ANNOUNCES LINEUP UPDATES FOR 2021 FESTIVALS AND 2022 FESTIVAL DATES

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/29/21

Disturbed, Volbeat & Atreyu Added To Louder Than Life, 

September 23-26, 2021 In Louisville, KY

 

Slipknot, A Day To Remember & Gojira Added To 

Welcome To Rockville, November 11-14, 2021 in Daytona Beach, FL

 

Tickets On Sale Now, Including New 2021 And 2022 Layaway Options For Both Festivals

Danny Wimmer Presents has announced lineup additions to two of its fall festivals. For Louder Than Life, rock heavyweights Disturbed, Volbeat and Atreyu will now appear at the festival, scheduled for September 23-26, 2021 at the Highland Festival Grounds At KY Expo Center. And Welcome To Rockville welcomes Slipknot, A Day To Remember and Gojira for the massive four-day event, November 11-14, 2021 in Daytona Beach, Florida.

The changes come after previous headliners Nine Inch Nails and Deftones canceled all 2021 tour dates and the DWP team worked around the clock to secure new acts for fans.

“I want to say a massive thank you to Slipknot, Disturbed, A Day To Remember, Volbeat, Gojira and Atreyu for immediately stepping in when we called them last week on such short notice. The last few weeks have been a wild ride, but these bands made it clear how much they want to be out there playing for their fans and will be ready to take the stage. We also talked to Metallica last week, who have confirmed their excitement to play our festivals in September, October and November. The road is going to be bumpy, but the team at DWP is undeterred and will continue to adapt to any road blocks. We are committed to putting on the rock reunion(s) we’ve all been waiting for. Keep On Keeping On,” says Danny Wimmer Presents founder Danny Wimmer.

“Disturbed cannot wait to get back at it. We are beyond excited to share the stage with the legends and friends Metallica, Judas Priest, Volbeat, Mudvayne, Korn and so many others at next month’s Louder Than Life. See ya in Kentucky,” adds Disturbed.

And A Day To Remember says, “I can’t wait to play Rockville this year! It will be the first time in A Day To Remember’s career to play Daytona. This line up is not going to be one you will want to miss. So many amazing bands!“

Tickets for both events are on sale now at https://louderthanlifefestival.com/ and https://welcometorockvillefestival.com/.

THE BATTERY ATLANTA SEPTEMBER EVENTS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/29/21

Live music, exclusive dining deals and outdoor events happening at Cobb County’s fan-favorite destination

The Battery Atlanta welcomes families and friends to discover another month of action-packed fun at Cobb County’s premier live-work-play campus. This September, guests can enjoy Free Pizza Monday at CRU Food & Wine Bar and Free Kid’s Meals at Goldberg’s Fine Foods on Tuesdays. For a late-night adventure, visitors will be able to dance the night away with festive, live music and a selective menu at El Super Pan’s Noche Tropical on Saturday nights. The Coca Cola Roxy will also be buzzing all month long with live performances, including eight opportunities to see Emmy-award winning comedian, John Mulaney.

Viva Tequila Festival
Sept. 25 from 12-9 p.m.
Sip and savor over 25 hand-crafted Mexican tequilas at the one-of-a-kind Viva Tequila Festival hosted by The Battery Atlanta. In addition to the tequila varieties, chefs from across Atlanta will be featuring deliciously curated small dishes that pair perfectly with a range of Blanco, Reposado and Añjeo tequilas. Guests will also be treated to live, world-class entertainment. To purchase tickets for the all-day event or after party, visit vivatequilafestival.com.

Outdoor Activities:
Wellness Series: Yoga by Kaiser Permanente
Mondays (excluding home gamedays) from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Start the week off stress-free with a limited capacity, outdoor yoga class presented by Kaiser Permanente on non-event days at the Plaza Green. Pre-registration and event participant waivers are available online. Participants are required to bring a mat and are encouraged to bring water. A live stream on Facebook and past sessions on YouTube are also available to fitness fans virtually on gamedays.

The Battery Atlanta Walking Trail presented by UnitedHealthcare
A brisk walk can curb cravings, reduce stress and offer a healthy way to catch up with friends and family! Get out and get active on the 1.5-mile loop circling the campus.

American Red Cross Blood Drives:
The American Red Cross continues their blood drive at The Battery Atlanta! All presenting donors will receive a commemorative T-shirt and a chance to win special Atlanta Braves and American Red Cross giveaways, while supplies last.

  • Konica Minolta Conference Center (parking available in Delta Deck)
    Sept. 13 at 9 a.m.

Interested donors can visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or use the Blood Donor App with sponsor code ‘DeltaATL’ to schedule an appointment in advance. Free parking is available in the Delta Deck for donors and free 3-hour parking is available in the Red Deck.

Select Retail and Restaurant Promotions:
Free Pizza Mondays at CRU Food & Wine Bar
Diners are treated to a FREE pizza with a bottle of wine purchase!

Kids Eat Free Tuesdays at Goldberg’s Fine Foods
Families can take advantage of a free kids’ menu item with the purchase of one adult meal at the New York style deli and restaurant.

Half Off Bar Bites and Drinks Specials Monday through Thursdays at Silverspot Cinema
Moviegoers can enjoy half price bar bites and drinks while taking in a feature film.

Noche Tropical Saturday at El Super Pan
Enjoy tropical getaway vibes from 11 p.m.-1 a.m.! The sandwich bar features the best tunes, late-night menu and dancing.

Sunday Service Industry Night at TAPS at Ph’East
Service industry employees can access all drink specials every Sunday starting at 9 p.m.

Park Bench Events:
The popular dueling piano bar and live music venue has announced a line-up of live shows this month, in addition to its DJ party and Karaoke Wednesday at Park Bench programming. Visit parkbenchbattery.com/calendar for more information.

  • Karaoke Wednesday at Park Bench

Wednesday, Sept. 1 at 9 p.m.

  • Rickey T. Cole Acoustic/Electric Party-Country Hits

Thursday, Sept. 2 at 9:30 p.m. – Sunday, Sept. 11 at 5 p.m.

  • Dueling Pianos Show

Friday, Sept. 3 at 9 p.m. – Tuesday, Sept. 13 at 5 p.m.

  • Rockin 3 Player Dueling Pianos Show

Saturday, Sept. 4 at 7 p.m.

  • Caleb Little Acoustic Party Hits – Following the Braves Game

Tuesday, Sept. 7 at 10 p.m.

  • Dave Lawson Duo – Following the Braves Game

Wednesday, Sept. 8 at 10 p.m.

  • Dueling Pianos – Following the Braves Game

Thursday, Sept. 9 at 10 p.m.

  • Rickey T Cole Party-Country Hits Show – Following the Braves Game

Friday, Sept. 10 at 10 p.m.

  • Hayden Coffman

Friday, Sept. 17 at 8:30 p.m.

  • Rockin 3 Player Dueling Pianos Show

Saturday, Sept. 18 at 7 p.m.

  • Karaoke Wednesday at Park Bench

Wednesday, Sept. 22 at 10 p.m.

  • Dueling Pianos Show

Thursday, Sept. 23 at 9 p.m.

  • Rockin 3 Player Dueling Pianos Show

Saturday, Sept. 25 at 7 p.m.

  • Rickey T Cole Acoustic/Electric Party-Country Hits Show – Following the Braves Game

Tuesday, Sept. 28 at 10 p.m.

  • Dueling Pianos – Following the Braves Game

Wednesday, Sept. 29 at 10 p.m.

Coca-Cola Roxy Events:
The Battery Atlanta’s iconic concert venue is gearing up for a full range of live-performances! This month, Coca-Cola Roxy brings today’s top hits and award-winning comedy to the stage. Review enhanced venue safety guidelines here.

  • Rod Wave

Wednesday, Sept. 1 at 8 p.m.

  • Cody Johnson

Thursday, Sept. 2 at 8 p.m.

  • Glass Animals

Wednesday, Sept. 8 at 8 p.m.

  • Good Vibes Summer Tour 2021: Rebelution + Special Guests

Friday, Sept. 15 at 8 p.m.

  • John Mulaney: From Scratch

Thursday, Sept. 16 at 7 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 17 at 7 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 17 at 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 18 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 18 at 9:30 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 19 at 7 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 20 at 7 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 22 at 7 p.m.

  • Sylvan Esso

Tuesday, Sept. 21 at 8 p.m.

An up-to-date list of restaurant and retailer happenings is available on the website. Details and hours of operation are subject to change. Visitors are asked to follow public safety guidelines while on property.

WILD HEAVEN BEER LAUNCHES NEW MUSIC VENUE IN ATLANTA’S WEST END

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/29/21

Mississippi Invasion Show Labor Day September 4th, featuring Cedric Burnside, Cary Hudson, and The Weeks
 
As our city emerges from a year apart and looks forward, Wild Heaven Beer, Georgia’s 4th oldest production craft brewery, has converted nearly 6000 square feet of space at its West End Brewery & Gardens location into The Garden Club. The state-of-the-art music venue, uniquely situated inside an operating craft brewery, will play host to a wide array of events, most notably live music.  With a capacity of 500+ and the ability to host shows with significant outside airflow, best-in-class air filtration, and ample parking, The Garden Club at Wild Heaven West End sits alone in the Atlanta music scene.
On Saturday, September 4, Wild Heaven Presents Mississippi Invasion 2021 featuring a tripleheader of headliners back-to-back-to-back: Cary Hudson of Blue Mountain (Americana) at 6pm, followed by 2x Grammy Nominee Cedric Burnside (Blues) at 8pm, and finally The Weeks (Rock) at 10pm. Mississippi Invasion 2021 coincides with a big weekend of college football kickoff games in Atlanta featuring Alabama vs. Miami (Saturday, September 4) and Ole Miss vs. Louisville (Monday, September 6). As a result, football fans in town looking for things to do will find little better than the Mississippi Invasion.
 
Tickets are $45 in advance and $55 day of show via Freshtix at wildheaven.freshtix.com. Doors open at 5pm. This is an all ages. Food is available onsite via the Wild Heaven Kitchen.
 
Wild Heaven takes guest safety seriously and, to that end, has installed the fastest-working, most advanced air filtration system we could find. The ionization-based system targets pathogens (including COVID-19) mold and dust particles and removes 99.5% of them within thirty minutes of introduction. In addition, ticket holders must present proof of vaccination or negative COVID test no more than 72 hours old.
ABOUT GARDEN CLUB AT WILD HEAVEN WEST END
The Garden Club at Wild Heaven West End is inside the Wild Heaven West End brewery located at 1010 White St SW, Atlanta, GA 30310. Tickets to The Garden Club shows are available via Freshtix at wildheaven.freshtix.com. The Garden Club features a lineup of fresh brewed Wild Heaven beer and hard seltzer, along with non-alcoholic beverage options. Food is available onsite via the Wild Heaven Kitchen. The Garden Club features an advanced ionization air filtration, ensuring 99.5% of pathogens, dust, and viral particles are eliminated within 30 minutes of introduction.

A LITTLE DIFFERENT BUT STILL A LOT OF FUN, DRAGON CON RETURNS TO DOWNTOWN ATLANTA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/24/21

Dragon Con, the internationally known science fiction, fantasy, and gaming convention, returns to downtown Atlanta for Labor Day weekend, balancing the awesome joy of a large pop culture gathering with significant efforts to reduce the spread of COVID.

Fans wearing the latest cosplay will be seen in downtown Atlanta for the first time since 2019. Cultural icon William Shatner, Oscar nominees Edward James Olmos and Mary McDonnell, and a host of other celebrities from the worlds of television, movies, comics, literature, and gaming will be on hand to greet fans, lead discussions, and sign autographs during this year’s convention.

An estimated 40,000 people are expected to attend Dragon Con, now in its 35th year, over the five-day Labor Day Weekend – Sept. 2 to Sept. 6 – with events and activities across AmericasMart Buildings One and Two and five host hotels – Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Marriott Marquis, Hilton Atlanta, Westin Peachtree, and Sheraton Atlanta.

Still, Dragon Con has implemented a series of protocols to help reduce the spread of COVID, including a requirement that all attendees show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours of arriving at the convention in order to pick up their badges.

Only badge-holding Dragon Con members will be allowed to watch this year’s Dragon Con Parade from city sidewalks along the parade route.  Instead, we encourage people to stay home and watch the parade on CW69 or YouTube.

Other changes include requiring all fans to wear a mask while inside a convention venue and a 50 percent reduction in the number of memberships sold for this year’s convention.

No badges will be sold on site. If badges are available, they will be available through www.Growtix.com.

For fans who are not comfortable attending a live convention, Dragon Con Goes Virtual is a live-streamed version of the convention with live convention coverage as well as exclusive pre-recorded content and highlights from past conventions that fans can enjoy from the comfort of their own home in the company of close friends and family.  A Dragon Con Goes Virtual subscription is $10.

Guests – In addition to Star Trek’s Shatner and Battlestar Galactica’s Olmos and McDonnell, Doctor Who’s Christopher Eccleston and Billie Piper, Star Trek Discovery’s Sonequa Martin Green and Mary Wiseman, and a brace of Supermen – Smallville’s Tom Welling and Superman and Lois’ Taylor Hoechlin – lead a parade of stars from some of the best-known television and movies of the last 40 years.

More than 200 guests – actors, authors, artists, and creators of all kinds – will lead panel discussions and meet with fans, who will recognize guests from Shazam!, The Boys, American Gods, The Walking Dead, the Harry Potter franchise, and Supernatural, as well as voice actors from animated series The Animaniacs, Star Wars the Clone Wars, and Steven Universe, and video games Overwatch, Duke Nukem, and Mass Effect.

For an older generation of fans, the convention also welcomes Kathy Coleman and Wesley Eure from the Sid & Marty Krofft-produced Saturday morning television series Land of the Lost.

Hall of Fame professional wrestler Diamond Dallas Page will appear at Thursday Night Wrestling and meet with fans during the convention.

Gaming – One of the largest gaming conventions in the nation, Dragon Con offers a basement full of games, from the latest and most popular video games to rarely seen board games, along with discussions with the game designers responsible for the games people love to play.

Overall, Dragon Con offers more than 140,000 square feet of gaming, featuring the full array of gaming including PC and console games, board games, miniatures gaming, role-playing games, collectable card games, and even LARP games. ‘Round the clock gaming is free to Dragon Con members starting Thursday, Sept. 2 at 4 pm.

In addition to all the gaming in Americas Mart Building One and Westin Peachtree Hotel, Joystick Game Bar will hold an American arcade experience with tons of favorite – and free to play for Dragon Con members – cabinet games at 161 Peachtree Center Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30303, from 10 a.m. to 4 a.m. each day.  A $10 cover is required for non-members.

Cosplay – Dragon Con is well known for the quality of its cosplay – or costume play – and that tradition will certainly continue. The nation’s top cosplayers will show off their best work during the show, participating in costume contests every night of the convention and promenading throughout the five host hotels and the streets of downtown Atlanta.

Cosplay competitions remain a mainstay of Dragon Con, including the queen of competitions, Dragon Con Masquerade, the oldest continuously-run competition in fandom, as well as the craftsmanship-focused Friday Night Costume Contest and the low-key and fan-voted Hallway Costume Contest, which will also have a virtual component for those fans joining the convention from home.

Parade – The world-famous Dragon Con Parade will be broadcast live on CW69 (WUPA-TV) and YouTube beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 4.

Only badge-holding Dragon Con members can watch this year’s Dragon Con parade from route, a health and safety measure adopted to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Official Charity – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta is the official charity for 2021.

Since 2013, the convention has consistently raised more than $100,000 for each of its annual official charities, including a dollar-for-dollar match from the convention up to an additional $100,000.  Funds are raised through convention-based auctions, special merchandise sales, special events, and the convention match.

In addition to fundraising, Dragon Con conducts the largest convention-based blood drive in the nation. In 2019, some 3,000 fans donated more than 6,000 units of blood and blood products in the annual Robert A. Heinlein “Pay It Forward” blood drive, benefiting LifeSouth, which serves more than 40 hospitals in the Atlanta area and 110 hospitals in the Southeast.

About Dragon Con

Dragon Con is the internationally known pop culture convention held each Labor Day Weekend (Sept. 2 -Sept. 6, 2021) in Atlanta. Organized for fans, Dragon Con features more than 3,500 hours of comics, film, television, costuming, art, music, and gaming over four days. For more information, please visit www.dragoncon.org and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

IMAGINE MUSIC FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES ARTIST-BY-DAY FOR SEVENTH ANNUAL EVENT, SEPTEMBER 17 – 19, 2021

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/22/21

Pool Parties, An Unprecedented B2B Lineup, Local and Regional Acts, and More Await Fans
 
Single Day Tickets On Sale Now

 

As excitement continues to build for Imagine Music Festival, organizers are pleased to release additional details for the festival’s return September 17 – 19, 2021. After the Poseidon level announcement of the seventh annual festival’s move to Bouckaert Farm in the City of Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia, and an equally monumental lineup, Imagine is ready to welcome fans to the Aquatic Fairytale. To help fans plan their experience at the farm, the artists-by-day, including local and regional artist additions, are as follows:

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

3LAU; Abelation; Adventure Club B2B Riot Ten; Blackgummy; Blunts & Blondes; CharlestheFirst; Dabin; Deeper Purpose; Dillon Nathaniel; Excision; Fisher; GRiZ; Kasbo; Lee Foss; Lick; Madeon; Moore Kismet; No Mana; Peekaboo; Protohype; Tsu Name, and Westend. Local and regional talent to include Bandikook; Bloodcrest; Chozen; Curra; Daniels Jack; DJ Red; Drinkurwater; Finderz Keeperz; Flozone; Julian Gray; Ian Live; Mikes Revenge; NOA | AON; Otica; Pryzms; Reginald Simpson; Rudashi; Skyhye, and Stephanie Laine.
 
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

Carnage B2B Borgore; Champagne Drip B2B Luzcid; Devault; Dieselboy w/ Mc Armanni Reign; Eddie Gold; Esseks; G-Rex; Kaivon; Kaskade; Kaskade (Pool Party); Kayzo B2B Subtronics; Kyle Walker; Liquid Stranger; Lucii; Malaa; Reaper; Shiba San; Shlump; Sidepiece; Sully; Virtual Riot B2B Barely Alive, and Wakaan Takeover Family Set. Local and regional talent to include Alber-K; ALTI2D; Chris Robert; Cut Rugs; Cyrus; Daddydough; Devious; Foreign Suspects; Johnny Goodtime; Infexzion; JA Farrell; James Kennedy (Pool Party); Kirby Bright; Mantis; Mettapattern; Niko the Kid; Organik; Subrinse; Svble; Thomas B; Torch Block; Vivid; White Rhino; Xtals; Yuki-San; Zeplinn, and Zubah.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
Black Carl!; Black Tiger Sex Machine; Brondo; Clozee; Corrupt UK; Dion Timmer; Dirtysnatcha B2B Rico Act; Elah; Ghost Rydr (Ghastly B2B Joyryde); Gryffin (DJ set); Illenium; Jinx; Joyce Muniz; Leah Culver; Lizzy Jane; Meduza (Pool Party); Mersiv; Noizu; Of the Trees; Sphongle Droid (Simon Posford Live feat. Android Jones); SNBRN; Subtronics: Wooked on Tronics (Sunset Set); VNSSA, and Walker & Royce. Local and regional talent to include Avion; Deadman; Diskull; DJ Aladdin; Domii; Frisbae; Juju Beats; Malik HD; Midnite Panda; Nctrnal; Nhexis; Ployd; Pretty Hippie; Sam Wolfe; Scales; Sparkbox; Teriyaki Noize (Pool Party); United; Vitillaz, and VLCN.
 
Imagine has a few other additions this year, with the Thursday Night Pre-Party*, and the campground stage which hosts the Silent Disco throughout.
 
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 16
Ganja White Night; ATLiens; Freaky, and PLSMA
*Guests must have a separate Pre-Party pass to attend.
CAMPGROUND STAGE / SILENT DISCO
3Nterline; Akuarium; AshleyMadison; Black AMigo; Comisar; Cozm & Naught; Deep Technicians; Don Genesis; Dose; exit 9; Krrushendo; Kymera; Laser; Assassins; Masked Beatz; MC Word; Odiggs; Sidd Kel; Tape B; Traitell, and Zoe Gray.
With the safety of the fans, artists, and staff as Imagine’s number one priority, organizers have also released their COVID-19 Health Policy & Entry Requirements. The festival developed new entry requirements by working closely with the City of Chattahoochee Hills, leading public safety experts, and following all recommended CDC and WHO guidelines. Everyone entering Bouckaert Farm will be asked to take a Health Pledge, including health verification- negative COVID-19 result within 72 hours of entering or full vaccination verification, festival wristband, health check wristband, and mask. Organizers will continue to update patrons with important information, including any changes to policies and procedures needed to know before entering the festival. Full details, including helpful resources, can be found at www.imaginemusicfestival.com/covid19policy.
 
Limited weekend passes for Imagine Music Festival are still available including, Car Camping Passes which are sold on a per car basis rather than per person. As an extension, Imagine Music Festival now offers a Companion Camping Pass which allows attendees to join and share a campsite with friends. Tent-Only Camping Passes are now available, which comes with two GA Camping Wristbands and one 10×15 campsite. VIP Car Camping, Single-day passes, Thursday Early Arrival Passes, and more parking options are available. Find tickets online at www.imaginefestival.com. Imagine Music Festival is an 18 and over event.

Imagine Music Festival is produced by Iris Presents. Visit www.imaginefestival.com for the most up-to-date information. Fans can stay connected on Instagram www.instagram.com/imaginemusicfestival, Twitter www.twitter.com/imaginemusicfes, and Facebook www.facebook.com/imaginemusicfestival.

UNDERGROUND ATLANTA SELECTED FOR NORTH AMERICAN DEBUT OF THE ART OF BANKSY: “WITHOUT LIMITS”

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/22/21

Venue Changed to Meet Popular Demand for Exhibition Tickets

Almost everyone has heard of Banksy, and longtime fans or curious observers will enjoy an opportunity to experience his iconic works when The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits” debuts in North America on Sept. 3. Due to popular demand for tickets since they went on sale in May, presenters of the exhibition today announced Underground Atlanta will host the exhibition through Jan. 9.

Tickets to the exhibition – which includes more than 140 of the artist’s works such as his certificated original works, prints on different kinds of materials, photos, sculptures, murals, installations, digital installations and a video mapping show which has been created only for this show – start at $29.20 available now through ArtOfBanksy.com. All tickets purchased previously remain valid for the confirmed time – only the venue has changed.

“Due to strong interest for tickets to The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits” we decided to relocate to Underground Atlanta from Midtown so that more fans will have access to the artists’ works in a larger presentation space with more parking and public transportation options as well as an adjacent hotel,” said Martin Biallas, CEO of SEE Global Entertainment.

Building upon the incredible success of The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits” in Europe and Australia, the exhibition is coming to the U.S. for a short period of time, with other cities to be announced. To date, over 1 million people have visited the exhibition worldwide, and in Atlanta nearly 3,000 tickets sold in the first 20 minutes of availability on May 18.

Regarded as one of the most valuable and talked about artists of our time, the Banksy’s popularity cannot be denied. The exhibition The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits” presented by SEE Global Entertainment presents original artworks, prints, photos, sculptures, installations, murals, and more. Some of Banksy’s works are carefully reproduced with his stencil technique especially for the exhibition.

A video documentary gives visitors insights into his life and work, all presented in a unique setting in every city. The show promises – and delivers – a genuinely impressive experience and is a “must see” to celebrate or learn about Banksy’s art, which consistently serves as a conversation starter.

“Banksy is an exciting and compelling artist and we are delighted to share an array of his works with the public for the first time in North America,” said Biallas. “Some consider him a prankster whereas others regard Banksy an artistic genius – no matter one’s perspective, across the globe it is clear that everyone agrees Banksy’s popularity and influence cannot be denied.”

“Banksy has a unique power to express strong political statements with poetry, energy and humor with an unnerving ability to get to the heart of the subject matter,” added Biallas. “Any location that features Banksy’s work becomes the place to see.”

In addition to Biallas, the founder of the exhibition, who is based outside the USA and considers himself a Banksy advocate, also affirms the incredible ability Banksy has to inspire conversation.

“Banksy loves to provoke, shock and even disturb society. He does it with humor and poetry indeed. He has the unique ability to express through his works some truths that most of the people don’t have the courage to say out loud. And, nowadays, we need to be sincere, empathetic and caring to one another more than ever. This is what Banksy’s art does: it has the power to unite people, ideas, values that can change the world for the better. And our mission is to present the truth about Bansky’s art and to carry his powerful message into the world.”

As the cultural capital of the South, Atlanta boasts an eclectic range of activities for art and culture enthusiasts. The location for The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits” – now at downtown’s Underground Atlanta – provides additional space and convenience for ticket holders.

“As we look to reestablish Underground’s significance in Atlanta, attracting one-of-a-kind experiences for our community is our first step,” said Shaneel Lalani, CEO of Lalani Ventures. “The Art of Banksy: ‘Without Limits’ exhibition is the most unique artist experience on the market right now, and we’re thrilled to be the host site. The urban and historic aesthetic Underground offers is the perfect backdrop for pieces of the world’s most famous street artist to be displayed and enjoyed by our city.”

The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits” successfully exhibited in multiple international cities including Istanbul, Amsterdam, Melbourne, Antwerp, Berlin, Bucharest, Cluj, Budapest, Riyadh, Vienna and Warsaw. The exhibition is famed for its unique installation in each location, ensuring a new and innovative experience for every visitor.

PUPS AND PINTS NIGHT AT RED’S BEER GARDEN

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/22/21

Celebrating International Dog Day With Cold Brews, Bites, Dog Treats, a Leash Making Station, and More
 
Benefiting the Atlanta Rescue Dog Cafe on Thursday, August 26, 2021
Is there paw-siblly a better combination than dogs, hot dogs and beer? Red Beer Garden doesn’t think so. Located in Benteen Park between Grant Park and East Atlanta, the local, dog-friendly haunt is celebrating International Dog Day on Thursday, August 26th with a Pups and Pints Night. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., pups can gobble up treats in the expansive beer garden while their owners sip on pints of cold brews and indulge in some of Red’s favorite offerings including the BLT Dog, Slaw Dogs Go To Heaven, the Benteen Club, Beyond Meat Nachos and much more. There will also be a leash making station so all pups can leave looking even more fetching. 10% of all sales between 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. will be donated to the Atlanta Rescue Dog Cafe, a non-profit organization with the mission to contribute to the well-being of pets and people everywhere by improving human-animal interaction, reducing the prevalence of animal cruelty, and relieving the strain on local animal shelters. An ulti-mutt night for dog and beer lovers alike, visit redsbeergarden.com for more information.