SNOW DAY RETURNS TO ALPHARETTA CITY CENTER THIS DECEMBER 9

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/6/23

There’s “Snow” Place Like Alpharetta City Center this Holiday Season

Join Alpharetta City Center for its 2nd Annual Snow Day on Saturday, December 9th, from noon to 2:30 p.m. Experience a winter wonderland on the Town Green with snow flurries and festive jazz by Lilac Wine. Enjoy family-friendly activities like crafts and a petting zoo, savor holiday-themed treats, and create lasting memories at the holiday photo booth. Explore the charming Alpharetta City Center boutiques. Best of all, the event is entirely free, so grab your mittens and embrace the winter fun while supplies last!

After enjoying the event, why not continue the fun with Alpharetta City Center’s vibrant boutiques and delectable restaurants? Get a head start on holiday shopping by checking out our curated list of shops below and consider securing dining reservations ahead of the rush:

Retailers: 

Al’s European Barbershop

Anna Bella- Fine Lingerie

The Ballog- An Artisan Market

Chic- Evolution in Art

Core57

DressUp

Exquisite Living

Hemline

The Hope Network

Magnolia Moon- Modern Outfitters

Mountain High Outfitters

Natural Body- Spa and Shop

Perched- Clothing & Gifts

The Pink Valise Boutique

The Red Hound

SkinReMEDI

Southern Local

Spirited

Restaurants: 

Chiringa

Central City Tavern

Citizen Soul

Curry Up Now

Holmes

Jekyll Brewing

Jinya Ramen Bar

Kilwins

Lapeer

Never Enough Thyme

Sammy’s Pizzeria On The Green 

Vitality Bowls- Superfood Cafe

WORLD OF ILLUMINATION ATLANTA 2023: ENCHANTED SAFARI

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/6/23

Gear Up for One Wild Holiday Adventure with Enchanted Safari, the World’s Largest Drive-Through Holiday Light and Sound Experience

Tickets on Sale Now for Family Trek Beginning November at Six Flags White Water

Enchanted Safari illuminates the Atlanta holiday season with a fun family trek over land, air, and sea where the brightest light shines from within. Produced by World of Illumination, Enchanted Safari is a premier drive-through audio-visual immersive experience using state-of-the-art technology and whimsical, joy-filled designs. 

With more than one million colorful lights and hundreds of animated displays, Enchanted Safari is the world’s largest drive-through holiday light experience, sure to outfit the winter season with family memories. Tickets are on sale now for the event opening November 15 and running through December 31 at Six Flags White Water in Marietta, Ga. 

Hosted by Toukie Toucan, Enchanted Safari immerses families in the spirit of the holidays on this adventure where guests soar among the clouds while flying with reindeer, outrun a T-Rex as they whiz past a land lost in time, and reach Santa’s Bazaar where a host of exotic animals will be decking the halls. Families will feel the jingle of the jungle through animated light displays choreographed to contemporary and timeless holiday music that will have everyone tapping their toes to the beat of the lights.  

For more information and tickets, please visit www.worldofillumination.com. Enchanted Safari allows you to pick a specific date and an arrival time window that best suits your schedule. Tickets are sold per vehicle. The holiday experience will operate Tuesday through Sunday from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. It is also open on Monday, December 18 and Monday, December 25, Christmas Day. 

VIRTUE ROOFTOP HOLIDAY BAR RETURNS WITH LOADS OF MERRIMENT AND FUN

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/5/23

Midtown Hotspot Gets in the Holiday Spirit with Festive Cocktails, Décor and Music

November 17 – December 29

Those looking for holiday cheer can head to Virtue, the bar and lounge atop 5Church Midtown, for the return of its festive Rooftop Holiday Bar. Starting Nov. 17 and continuing through Dec. 29, the popular rooftop destination is transforming its space into a holly jolly wonderland.

In addition to festive décor, twinkly lights, and unobstructed views of Midtown, guests will enjoy a menu of holiday-inspired foods such as the s’mores board—a shareable and interactive dessert spread that includes house-made graham crackers, house-made marshmallows, pumpkin cheesecake bites, caramel popcorn, hot chocolate bomb cookie, and a rich hot fudge for your dipping pleasure.

A few standout selections from then holiday-inspired cocktail menu are:

  • Candy Cane Lane: Ketel One vodka, Baileys, créme de menthe, and Rich demerara
  • Gingerbread Old Fashion: Bulleit bourbon, gingerbread spice, and Angostura bitters
  • Christmas Mule: Tito’s vodka, lime juice, cranberry, rosemary, and ginger beer
  • Christmas Mimosa: Pama Pomegranate liqueur, cranberry, and Champagne
  • Santa’s Espresso Martini: Kettle One vodka, Bailey’s strawberry, Kahlúa Mocha, mint, and espresso

The Rooftop Holiday Bar will be open seven days a week starting at 5 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis for those 21 years old and over with no cover charge. On Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve, the bar will be open for drinks only.

Feature photo by Brandon Amato

UNWRAP THE MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON AT AMORE E AMORE 

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/5/23

Experience a Winter Wonderland Featuring Festive Decor, Themed Cocktails, a Special Menu, and Visits With Santa and Mrs. Claus

Reservations Now Available for Dinner With Santa & Mrs. Claus

November 28, 29 and 30; December 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 20, and 23, 2023.  4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. 


Unwrap the magic of the holiday season at Amore e Amore in the heart of Inman Park beginning Tuesday, November 28 through Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24, 2023. Mama Gale and Professor Giovanni will once again transform their Italian ristorante into a whimsical winter wonderland, adorning every corner with festive decorations and seasonal delights, making every visit merry and bright. Along with a special prix fixe menu, themed cocktails, and the full a la carte dinner menu, guests will have the opportunity to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus as they spread holiday cheer to guests of all ages on November 28, 29, and 30; and December 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 20, and 23, 2023, between 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Young revelers are invited to write and mail a letter to Santa while enjoying Amore e Amore’s kid-friendly menu of pizza bites, meatballs, and child-sized portions of fan favorite entrees including fettuccine alfredo, cheese ravioli, spaghetti and meatballs for $20. Amore e Amore is open Tuesday through Sunday beginning at 5 p.m. Kids ages 12 and under are welcome to dine from open until 7:30 p.m. For more information or to make a reservation, visit  www.amoreeamore.com  or call 404-600-2176. 

TINSEL TAVERN IS BACK AT LIVE! AT THE BATTERY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/5/23

LIVE! AT THE BATTERY’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY POP-UP, TINSEL TAVERN, RETURNS ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30

Festive, Whimsical Bar will Feature an Explosion of Tinsel & Twinkling Lights, Holiday Cocktails & Small Bites, Photo Moments & Themed Nights

Plus, Entertainment Destination to Host a New Year’s Eve Hollywood Nights-themed Celebration

Live! at The Battery – the entertainment destination located in the heart of The Battery Atlanta – announces the return of its second annual holiday pop-up bar Tinsel Tavern! Guests are invited to step into the magical fun throughout the merriest time of year and experience an explosion of tinsel and twinkling lights, holiday-inspired cocktails and small bites, and photo moments. The whimsical experience will be open daily Thursday, November 30 through Saturday, December 23. Hours will be 4pm-midnight Sunday through Thursday and 4pm until close on Friday and Saturday (excluding select days for private events).

Throughout the season, Tinsel Tavern will host festive, themed nights including a Holiday Karaoke Party on December 2 from 8pm–midnight (free), an Ugly Sweater Party on December 16 from 9pm–1am ($5 per person) and a Dancing Elves Silent Disco on December 23 from 9pm–1am ($5 per headset). Thursday through Saturday at 8pm, the staff will lead a flash sing-along to a favorite holiday song, and every Thursday, guests can join holiday line dancing at PBR Atlanta. People will be able to make reservations here beginning November 9 or can walk in for drinks and socializing. Those interested in hosting a private event at Tinsel Tavern can email events@liveatthebatteryatlanta.com.

Sweet and savory holiday bites from Executive Chef Brian Cosio include:

  • Pigs in a Blanket with honey mustard
  • Cocktail Meatballs with beef, Italian sausage & creamy herb cream sauce
  • Roasted Turkey Poutine with fries, sage gravy & mozzarella
  • Buffalo Chicken Dip with tortilla chips, crudité & blue cheese
  • Braised Pork Sliders with brussels sprout slaw, dinner roll & apple butter
  • Snickerdoodle Sandwich with cream cheese, salted caramel & Grand Marnier 
  • Maple Bacon Churros

In the spirit of the season, Tinsel Tavern is also partnering with the National Fighting Championship (NFC) to host a Toys 4 Tots toy drive on December 8. Donations can be dropped off at Sports and Social starting at 6pm.

To ring in 2023, the entertainment hub is rolling out the red carpet and flashing lights with a Hollywood Nights-themed New Year’s Eve celebration. Guests can be the star of the party with exclusive access to all the venues. Ticket packages include entertainment with live music, unforgettable photo-op moments and a midnight champagne toast featuring the Times Square Ball Drop on Sport & Social’s 32-foot LED screen! Tickets are now available here. 

GEORGIA FESTIVAL OF TREES TO KICK OFF CHRISTMAS IN ATLANTA WITH ANNUAL HOLIDAY EVENT

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/5/23

Atlanta Nonprofit Set To Host Annual, Eight-Day Festival At Georgia World Congress Center With Forest Of Holiday Trees For Auction, Live Entertainment And More

Georgia Festival of Trees will kick off the holiday season with an eight-day festival Saturday, Nov. 18-Sunday, Nov. 26 at the Georgia World Congress Center, featuring a dazzling display of Christmas trees, wreaths, centerpieces and nativities for auction, live music and entertainment, Christmas Brick Challenge, kids’ activities and games, boutique gift shops, food carts and more.

The festival boasts the title of Georgia’s largest holiday event but its impact reaches far beyond that. All proceeds from the event and holiday tree sales will benefit two local nonprofit organizations working to support survivors of human trafficking and end human trafficking: Street Grace and Atlanta Redemption Ink. The festival remains true to its mission: spreading holiday magic with a heart to end human trafficking.

“As a child, I remember eagerly waiting for the Festival of Trees, and it’s incredible to now look around and see families in my own community creating their own memories at the Georgia Festival of Trees,” said Georgia Festival of Trees Executive Director Angie Ulibarri. “While we’re bringing back many parts that our community loves, including the auction, children’s activities, pictures with Santa, the Christmas Lego Challenge and of course the beautiful trees, we’re excited to partner with two new nonprofits as we further our mission to end human trafficking.”

Each tree, wreath, centerpiece and nativity at the festival is designed, decorated and donated by individuals and organizations around the southeast, providing a variety of options for those looking to take home holiday decor. Trees and other decor are auctioned off both in-person and online during the festival.

The auction is the main driver to support this year’s beneficiaries: Street Grace and Atlanta Redemption Ink. Street Grace is a faith-based nonprofit organization whose mission is to eradicate the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC).

“We’re honored to be partnering with Georgia Festival of Trees,” Street Grace Director of Engagement Brooke Ruffin. “The issue of sex trafficking will not be eradicated unless we shine a light on it, and what better way to do that than a festival filled with Christmas lights! We’re humbled to be a beneficiary and are excited to join in on the festivities.”

The second beneficiary is local survivor-led nonprofit, Atlanta Redemption Ink (ARI), which focuses on transforming painful reminders of the past into symbols of hope. They offer tattoo removals, scar revision, and cover-ups to survivors of commercial sexual exploitation along with training from a lived experience lens and on tattoo iconography.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of Georgia Festival of Trees’ mission to create holiday magic with a bigger purpose: to end human trafficking,” said Jessica Lamb, founder of Atlanta Redemption Ink. “Our heart is to bring hope into difficult situations, and we couldn’t think of a better event to partner with this Christmas.”

Georgia Festival of Trees is sponsored by Elavon, Amerimed, Well Care, Ambetter Health, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, doTERRA and more. Tickets to the Georgia Festival of Trees start at $13.95 for children ages 3-12 and seniors ages 62 and up, and $18.95 for adults. Additionally, a wristband for the children’s activities can be purchased prior to arriving or for $9.95 on site. The Georgia World Congress Center is located at 285 Andrew Young International Blvd. Northwest, Atlanta, Ga. 30313.

For a schedule of events, to purchase tickets, sign up to volunteer or learn more about the Georgia Festival of Trees visit gafestivaloftrees.org. For more about Street Grace, visit streetgrace.org. To learn more about Atlanta Redemption Ink, visit arionline.org.

UPSTAIRS AT HOBNOB HALCYON TRANSFORMS INTO A WINTER WONDERLAND WITH SKI CHALET POP-UP BAR

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/26/23

Guests will Experience the Thrills of Ski Resort Vibes, Seasonal Cocktails, and Mountaintop Fare on the Rooftop Starting Nov. 8

Atlanta doesn’t see much snow, but HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern will soon usher in ski chalet vibes upstairs at its Halcyon location. Starting Wednesday, Nov. 8, the Ski Chalet Pop-Up Bar will immerse guests in a winter ski resort atmosphere, serving seasonal cocktails and mountaintop fare all winter long.

HOBNOB is recreating one of the most enjoyable parts of a ski vacation: the après ski experience, where guests wind down after a day on the slopes with cocktails and comforting snacks. At HOBNOB Halcyon, guests probably did not have a hard day of skiing, but they can escape to the comfort of HOBNOB’s Ski Chalet with a satisfying beverage, a cozy atmosphere with a roaring fire and some of the best après ski fare east of the Rockies. 

HOBNOB’s Ski Chalet drinks will come with a side of seasonal comfort, perfect for whatever terrain guests have covered that day. Specialty cocktails include classics like peppermint mocha martinis, RumChata hot cocoas, and Bulleit bourbon hot toddies. Guests can linger over their cozy cocktails and nibble at seasonal mountaintop fare that includes tableside campfire s’mores and homemade classic poutine.

Live entertainment will complement the snowy space every Friday and Saturday. The Ski Chalet Pop-Up Bar will be located at HOBNOB Halcyon’s High-Up Bar on the second floor. All the best features of the winter season will be alive and well and celebrated in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.  

HOBNOB Halcyon is open for lunch and dinner and weekend brunch and offers a late-night bar and live music on the weekends. Kitchen hours are Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Saturday 10:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. and Sunday 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Check HOBNOB’s website for more special events.

RED BULL CULTURE CLASH RETURNS TO ATLANTA NOVEMBER 4TH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/

FEATURING DJ LUIAN, SERANI, YOUNG NUDY, AFRO B, A SPECIAL PERFORMANCE FROM CRIME MOB + MORE SURPRISES TO COME!

4 Crews. 4 Stages. 1 Winner.

Tickets On Sale Now 

Red Bull Culture Clash, the groundbreaking live music experience featuring four opposing crews across four stages, is thrilled to announce its return to Atlanta this November todeliver the nightlife event of the year. Set to unfold at the Gateway Center Arena on Saturday, November 4th at 7 p.m., tickets are now on sale for this spectacle that pays homage to the city’s unique tapestry of culture, color, and sound. 

For one night only, four dynamic crews representing Atlanta’s hottest parties will bring their fiercest competition and freshest sounds in Dancehall, Reggaeton, Amapiano, and Hip-Hop to one location: Rum Punch Brunchfeaturing Jamaican dancehall sensation and producer Serani; Perreo404featuring Bad Bunny collaborator, DJ, and producer DJ Luian; Bamba Tuesdays featuring singer and songwriter Afro B; and Mashup Sessions featuring rising Atlanta rap star Young Nudy. In a four-round battle, they’ll bring booming soundscapes, unreleased tracks, intense rivalry, and a thrilling lineup of special guests and surprises, all aimed at winning the crowd’s hearts and outshining their opponents. Only one winner can be crowned Red Bull Culture Clash champion and earn bragging rights as the best party crew in the A. 

This year, Red Bull Culture Clash will also feature a special performance from Atlanta’s own Crime Mob, including original members Diamond, Lil’ Jay, M.I.G., Money Blacc formally known as Cyco Blacc and Princess. The revered group have carved out their place in history with their iconic Southern rap anthems “Knuck If You Buck” and “Rock Yo Hips.” The show will be hosted by Jessie Woo and Paige Shari, while Jay Shale, the Atlanta DJ who spins for the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream and Overtime Elite, will serve as house DJ for the battle.

Get to know the crews of Red Bull Culture Clash Atlanta

  • Rum Punch Brunch – Coined as Atlanta’s most celebrated brunch, RPB started it all back in 2016, and has become a must-attend event for those looking for exotic eats, big beats, the best rum punch, and the coolest vibe. The crew will be joined onstage by Jamaican dancehall singer and producer Serani and featured DJs Tony MatterhornandWilly Chin. 
  • Mashup Sessions – The open-format experience for Music Lovers, where music is remixed, flipped, and reconstructed. Delivering music that feeds the soul, Mashup Sessions is all about good drinks, good people, and better vibes. The crew will be joined onstage by local Atlanta rap starYoung Nudy and DJs UnruelyandThe Canterbury Tales.
  • Bamba Tuesdays – One of the nation’s premier Amapiano events, as well as an Atlanta cultural institution, Bamba Tuesdays seamlessly blends Amapiano, Afro House, Gqom, Afro Tech, and Afro Beat. The crew will be joined onstage by singer and songwriterAfro B, known for his hit single, Drogba, plus DJs Kash, DangerVybz, and Polish.
  • Perreo404 – An all-inclusive community uplifting the Latin culture through nostalgia and sounds, featuring Reggaeton, Perreo, Latin House, and more. Que viva el perreo! The crew will be joined onstage by Bad Bunny collaborator, DJ, and producerDJ Luian, plus DJ EUandNino Augustine.

Red Bull Culture Clash previously came to Atlanta in 2017 and 2018 and, perhaps boding well for Rum Punch Brunch, Dancehall crews won both prior years. Crew Unruly with DJs ZJ Liquid, Chromatic, Jazzy T, and Jabba won in 2017, while Jamaica reggae and dancehall artist Kranium and crew Frequent Fliers took the title in 2018. After a four-year hiatus, Red Bull Culture Clash made a triumphant return to the U.S. in 2022, selling out venues in NYC and LA. 

“Super excited to be a part of Red Bull Culture Clash this year because I’ve been a team member a few years back with Mike WiLL (Made-It) and the Eardrummers. Now it’s time to lead the charge for my own team,” said DJ Kash of Bamba Tuesdays. “Red Bull Culture Clash is like a legit gladiator battle for DJs, producers, and whatever you do creatively in the music. For me, this is super important because this lets you know where you stand as far as how to rock a crowd.”

The two prior Red Bull Culture Clashes in Atlanta also saw guest appearances from Ludacris, Mavado, Rae Sremmurd, Rico Nasty, and Waka Flocka Flame, among others.

“Red Bull Culture Clash is an important event in Atlanta because it highlights all the people that are doing movements in the city of Atlanta – that are really putting on for the culture of the city and showcasing all the vibes and sounds of our cultures,” said DJ EU, who won Red Bull 3Style in Atlanta in 2013. “Red Bull Culture Clash takes me back to my Red Bull 3Style battling days, but this time it’s not one person – it’s the crew and I could not be happier to be repping the Latinos in Atlanta with my Perreo404 crew.”

For more information on Red Bull Culture Clash and to purchase tickets for Red Bull Culture Clash Atlanta, visit redbull.com/cultureclash. 

THE GIFT OF LIFE: ART FOR A LIFE-SAVING MATCH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/25/23

Distillery of Modern Art, Sunday, November 11 at 1pm

Attention art enthusiasts and philanthropists! 

We are thrilled to announce an extraordinary art show that combines creativity, community, and a noble cause. Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with stunning artwork, live painting, delectable food, and a mission to find a kidney donor. 

This art show is a celebration of talent featuring over 20 incredible artists from various backgrounds and styles. From mesmerizing paintings to breathtaking photography, this event promises to ignite your imagination and leave you inspired. 

Adding to the excitement, we have invited two talented live painters who will create masterpieces right before your eyes. Witness their artistic process unfold in real-time, as they transform blank canvases into stunning works of art. 

But, this event is not just about art; it’s about making a difference in someone’s live. We are working to raise awareness for an individual, Vy Tran, as he is in his late stages of kidney failure and is in desperate need of a hero donor. 

About Vy Tran: 

Just before the pandemic hit, I was diagnosed with end stage renal disease, essentially my kidneys stopped working. I’ve been on dialysis for the past 3 years or so and am currently on the transplant list (which can take years to find a donor). It’s been a very rough road till this point and a lot of it has to do with the physical and mental changes that come with all of this. But as of right now, I am in a good place and I am pushing forward as best I can. 

On the bright side, my transplant surgeon says I’m a good candidate for a donor kidney but no amount of surgery will change my personality. 

In addition to the mission, we are also giving back to the community and to the artists. As the holidays are closely approaching, booth space was provided free of charge to the artists allowing them to showcase their work with no overhead. As a gift to the community, food will be provided to attendees at no charge by Ruchi Bangladeshi during the duration of the show (while supplies last-food arrives at ~2:30pm) .

Free Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/717567041337?aff=oddtdtcreator

NEW ATLANTA HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE A MERRY AND BRIGHT ADDITION TO NORTH GEORGIA’S ROSTER OF SEASONAL EVENTS

-Event Producers at Marketplace Events Launch Three-Day Shopping Event at Gas South Convention Center November 3-5, 2023-

Followers who go to Atlanta Holiday Boutique 2023 (mpetickets.com)

will get 50% off with promo code ADVENTURE

Atlantans who revel in the holiday spirit will soon have a new tradition to mark the season when the ultimate holiday shopping experience launches with the Atlanta Holiday Boutique at the Gas South Convention Center November 3-5, 2023. Marketplace Events – producers of the Atlanta Home Show and North Atlanta Home Show – kick off the first annual show with more than 200 companies in a festive atmosphere filled with holiday home décor, jewelry, gifts, children’s items, gourmet foods and more. 

The Holiday Boutique is tailored for guests looking to experience all the joys of the holiday season with high-quality vendors and artisan designers from all over the country, entertainment, food and drink – and a one-stop shop to find unique gifts for anyone on their list.

Highlights of the Atlanta Holiday Boutique will include:

  • The holiday spirit will be flowing at Girls Night Out on Friday, Nov. 3. Kick start the weekend kick starts the weekend with a party from 5 – 9 p.m. featuring music, drinks, door prizes and late-night access to some of the chicest boutiques in the area. 
  • Discover beautiful, custom-made gifts and home décor created by Artisan Exhibitors. Local artisans. Their unique, artist-inspired creations and artwork can’t be found anywhere else.
  • Grab a drink, take a break, and re-energize in one of two roomy Shopper’s Relaxation Lounge.  Refreshed and renewed, you’ll be ready to hit the floor. 
  • Shop the show for free with Boutique Bucks. Enter to win at the show for your chance to win each hour! Hourly drawings for $25 in Boutique Bucks to use at any of our vendors.

TICKETS:

Adults – $12 (At the door)

Adults – $10 (Online)*

Children ages 12 and under are free. 

*Online Advance Adult Admission will be at the $10 discounted rate through 11/2/23. Starting opening day of the show the price will increase to $12 online, same as box office pricing.

HOURS:

10 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Friday

9 a.m. – 7 p.m. on Saturday

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sunday. 

For show information and to save on tickets, visit Official Atlanta Holiday Boutique – November 3-5, 2023 – Gas South Convention Center.