FOOD THAT ROCKS 2026

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/7/26

Food That Rocks 2026 Returns to City Springs for An All-Inclusive Tasting Event Featuring Over Two Dozen Sandy Springs’ Neighborhood Restaurants
Presented by Taste of Atlanta 

TICKETS ON SALE TODAY! EARLY BIRD PRICING $75 APRIL 3 THROUGH APRIL 17

All-inclusive tickets for Food That Rocks 2026 are officially on sale today, inviting guests to experience one of Sandy Springs’ most anticipated nights out. Presented by Taste of Atlanta, this high-energy, open-air tasting event returns to City Springs on Thursday, June 4, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with VIP early entry at 6:00 p.m. (one hour before General Admission).  The event brings together more than 25 of Sandy Springs’ standout restaurants for a lively night of chef-driven bites, craft cocktail tasting, interactive sponsor experiences, and live music from Band X. The evening is designed to spotlight the neighborhood’s exceptional and ever-growing culinary scene.

“This is where Sandy Springs shows off! Food That Rocks continues to celebrate both longtime favorites and new restaurants that we are so excited to have in Sandy Springs,” says Dale DeSena, Founder of Food That Rocks and Taste of Atlanta. “It’s always a beautiful and uplifting night to spend with friends or family sharing food, drinks, and the unique ability to connect face-to-face with the chefs and their teams that make this city so unique.”

Participating Sandy Springs restaurants that will offer savory and sweet bites include; Tre Vele, C&S Seafood & Oyster Bar, Chef Rob’s Caribbean Café, City Bar. & Café, Gus’ World Famous Fried Chicken, Pita Mediterranean Street Food, Taziki’s Mediterranean Café, Three Dollar Café, Sunnyside Pizzeria, Thos. O’ Reilly’s Public House, Yalda, and many more to come.

Sponsors that help make Food That Rocks a successfully smashing evening include; Coca-Cola, Publix, Don Julio, Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital, Visit Sandy Springs, Smartwater, Society Insurance, Aperol Spritz, Leyenda De Mexico, Edmond’s Honor, Señorita Drinks, Rythm Drink, Deep Eddy Vodka, Bluecoat Gin, Regency Centers, City Walk Shopping Center, Heritage Steel, Dancing Goats by Kaldi’s Coffee, City Springs Theatre Company, Classic Tents, Prima, Taste Wine Bar and Market, Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles Magazine, Rough Draft, Georgia Voice, , Simply Buckhead, 680 The Fan,  XTRA 1063, My Sandy Springs, Best Self Atlanta, Smooth Jazz 101, The Atlantan Magazine, Jezebel, and Restaurant Informer.

In addition, Second Helpings Atlanta will be the official nonprofit partner of Food That Rocks for 2026. The food rescue organization whose mission is to end hunger and food waste in the Metro Atlanta area by rescuing healthy, nutritious surplus food and distributing it to those in need.

Food That Rocks 2026 Details

Click for General Admission 7-10 p.m. and VIP Early Access from 6-7 p.m.  
Advance purchase is encouraged since this event sells out annually. Guests 21+ only, valid ID required at check-in, rain or shine; no refunds or exchanges.

  • VIP ticket holders gain exclusive access to Publix VIP Lounge and VIP Swag Bag (limit one per household)
  • All ticket holders receive all-inclusive and unlimited food and dessert tastings
  • Local beer, wine and craft cocktail tastings
  • Meet your favorite, local chefs 
  • Live Music all night long by Band X
  • Engaging sponsor activations
  • Create new Food That Rocks memories with fun photo experiences
  • Attendees can enjoy voting for their favorite bite and sip. Awards will include, best taste, best dessert and best beverage.

Follow Food That Rocks on Instagram and Facebook for updates, and visit FoodThatRocks.org for tickets and details.

FOURTH ANNUAL SPARK 5K

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/3/26

Fourth Annual Spark 5K Unites Atlanta for Fun, High-Energy Celebration of Community, Inclusion and Friendly Competition

Race raises funds to empower people with disabilities and transform child literacy

The Spark 5K, presented by Roark, returns to Piedmont Park on Thursday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m. ET for its fourth annual celebration of community, movement, and purpose. More than a race, this high-energy evening combines fun, fitness and a spirited corporate challenge all to raise funds supporting two impactful nonprofit partners: The Kyle Pease Foundation and Malcolm Mitchell’s Share the Magic Foundation.

An event that has continued to grow in both number of participants and amount raised over the last three years, the Spark 5K welcomes runners, walkers, in-chair athletes and supporters from across the Atlanta area to enjoy an inclusive course through Piedmont Park. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, strolling with friends, simply enjoying a night at the park, or cheering from the sidelines, this event is designed for participants of all abilities.

The event will also be continuing its tradition as a dynamic corporate challenge, rallying Atlanta-based companies to show their team spirit while connecting employees outside the office to make a lasting difference in our community. Businesses of all sizes are encouraged to join forces, register their teams at Spark5K.com, and compete for awards recognizing the most spirited, creative, and engaged groups.

Race beneficiaries, The Kyle Pease Foundation continues to champion opportunities for inclusion, ensuring in-chair athletes have a place in sports while working to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities, and Share the Magic Foundation remains dedicated to changing lives through literacy, bringing joy and educational empowerment to children facing challenges.

“The Spark 5K represents everything our foundation believes in – inclusion, teamwork, perseverance, and the power of community,” said Kyle Pease, Co-Founder and Director of Inclusion at The Kyle Pease Foundation. “We’re excited to be part of this annual event yet again, and seeing our athletes, corporate teams, families and friends is incredibly powerful. It truly shows how much stronger our community becomes when we rally for a shared purpose.”

Atlanta natives Kyle Pease and Malcolm Mitchell, along with former University of Georgia quarterback Aaron Murray, as well as other local athletes and corporate representatives will all be on hand to celebrate the event. All registered participants will receive a Spark 5K branded tee and enjoy refreshments at the finish line, with prizes awarded to standout individuals and company teams, and delectable offerings from McAlister’s Deli and Dave’s Hot Chicken awaiting participants at the finish line.

“The Spark 5K continues to be a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together with purpose,” said Malcolm Mitchell, Founder and CEO of Share the Magic Foundation. “Each year, this event grows not just in size, but in impact—helping us reach more children, inspire more readers, and create more opportunities through literacy. We’re proud to once again partner with Roark and The Kyle Pease Foundation to turn collective energy into meaningful change.”

Registration is open for individuals, school teams, run clubs, and corporate teams at Spark5K.com, so lace up your sneakers, rally your team, and join Atlantans for an evening where every step matters. See you at the starting line on Thursday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m. ET!

“At Roark, helping people and companies reach their full potential also means investing in the communities where we live and work,” said Allison Hill, Chief Social Impact and Content Officer at Roark. “Last year, more than 700 participants joined the Spark 5K and helped raise $172,000 for two incredible Atlanta nonprofits. Just as meaningful, the event brought colleagues, partners and friends from across the business community together outside the office. We’re excited to build on that momentum this year and welcome even more teams for an evening of connection, camaraderie and impact.”

EXPERIENCE A FULL LINEUP OF EVENTS THIS APRIL AT THE WORKS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/3/26

Enjoy a month full of Easter celebrations, live music, wellness-inspired programming and more

The Works is bringing a full lineup of events this month, from 404 Day to Easter weekend programming, live music, fitness events and food-focused experiences. With options ranging from family-friendly activities to evening outings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The full April events lineup is outlined below:

404 Day at Your 3rd Spot

Saturday, April 4 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.

Celebrate Atlanta with a special $40.40 deal that includes gaming, wings and a drink at Your 3rd Spot! Plus, enjoy special themed activations. For more information, visit the event page.

Live & In Bloom Spring Music Series

Saturdays in April from 2 to 5 p.m.

Spend your Saturdays at The Works’ Spring Music Series from 2 to 5 p.m. at The Camp. Enjoy live performances from local bands in a laid‑back, open‑air setting, then grab a bite from one of our on-site restaurants to round out the afternoon. For more information, visit the event page.

Chattahoochee Food Works Pastel Party

Saturday, April 4 from 6 to 10 p.m.

Join Chattahoochee Food Works for a vibrant Easter Eve celebration! Easter Pastel Party is bringing the energy with a live DJ and a stylish twist. Come dressed in your best pastel-colored outfit for a chance to be crowned Best Dressed at 8 p.m. For more information, visit the event page.

Easter Snack and Scribble at Chattahoochee Food Works

Sunday, April 5 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Get creative and let your inner child shine! Chattahoochee Food Works will be offering Easter-themed coloring pages and snacks for purchase from your favorite vendors. All ages are welcome. For more information, visit the event page.

Easter Jazz Brunch at Chattahoochee Food Works

Sunday, April 5 from noon to 3 p.m.

Celebrate Easter Sunday with a soulful, delicious jazz brunch at Chattahoochee Food Works! Soak in live jazz from a featured local artist while you explore a variety of brunch specials from the food stalls. Plus, sip your favorite drinks from Center Bar and make a day of it with friends and family in the heart of the Food Works. For more information, visit the event page.

Easter Sunday at Your 3rd Spot

Sunday, April 5 from 1 to 10 p.m.

Enjoy fun for the family all day with an Easter brunch menu, an Easter egg hunt, a movie screening of HOP, a family photo booth and more. For more information, visit the event page.

Hoppy Hour Easter Wine Tasting at Taste Wine Bar

Sunday, April 5 from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Sip in style this Easter with a guided wine and cheese tasting on Sunday, April 5 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at Taste Wine Bar and Market! For more information, visit the event page.

Master’s Tournament Watch Party

Thursday, April 9 through Sunday, April 12

Join Chattahoochee Food Works for a Masters Tournament Watch Party and catch every moment of the action as the tournament unfolds. The competition will be streaming across the food hall so you can follow along while enjoying great food, drinks and the lively atmosphere. Sip on a special Azalea Cocktail, a Masters-inspired favorite, and settle in to watch the tournament with friends and fellow golf fans. For more information, visit the event page.

Fetch The Flow: Wags and Wellness Morning

Saturday, April 11 from 9 to 11 a.m.

Start your morning with movement, recovery and plenty of wagging tails at Fetch Park’s Wags and Wellness Morning. Enjoy cold plunges with SWTHZ, a dog-friendly mat pilates class with Stellar Bodies, along with matcha and botanical tea specials. This complimentary event is open to the public, and no registration is required. For more information, visit the event page.

Owala Birthday Beach Bash

Saturday, April 11 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Mark your calendars, because the Owala Birthday Beach Bash is coming to The Works! Celebrate six years with Owala as they bring the beach, bottles and fun to Atlanta for its biggest birthday yet. Join us for your chance to win free products, merch and more. Enjoy boardwalk games and uncover surprises along the way. For more information, visit the event page.

Taste of Atlanta 25th Anniversary Celebration

Thursday, April 16 from 6 to 10 p.m.

Now in its milestone 25th anniversary year, Taste of Atlanta is celebrating its birthday in a major way with a kickoff celebration at The Works. This special anniversary celebration, themed “25 Chefs & Restaurants, One Iconic Night,” will bring together some of the original chefs, restaurants and culinary trailblazers who helped shape Atlanta’s vibrant food scene. The evening will be a unique opportunity to honor the talent and innovation that made our city one of the Southeast’s top dining destinations. For more information, visit the event page.

Chattahoochee Food Works Draft Watch Party

Thursday, April 23 through Saturday, April 25

Join Chattahoochee Food Works to watch the excitement of the Draft live. They’ll be streaming the draft throughout the food hall, so you won’t miss a single pick, trade or surprise moment as teams build their rosters for the upcoming season. Grab food from your favorite vendors and take advantage of special food and drink offerings. For more information, visit the event page.

Trivi-Axe Singles’ Night at American Axes

Thursday, April 30 at 7 p.m.

Join American Axes for a singles night with themed trivia. Score points by throwing axes and answering trivia questions correctly. For more information, visit the event page.

Plus, enjoy daily events at participating tenants such as trivia, happy hour, live music and more. Check out more at https://theworksatl.com/events/.

THE AVENUE PEACHTREE CITY LAUNCHES SECOND ANNUAL BLOOM CAMPAIGN: A CELEBRATION OF SUSTAINABILITY AND CONNECTION

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/3/26

This spring initiative invites the Peachtree City community to enjoy a lineup of events and offerings to welcome the season 


The Avenue Peachtree City today announced the return of BLOOM, a celebration dedicated to sustainable living and seasonal experiences. Taking place from April 1 through May 17, BLOOM will transform the lifestyle center into a lively destination for community engagement, featuring live music, charitable initiatives, family-friendly activities and more. 

“We’re excited to reintroduce BLOOM to the Peachtree City community with a thoughtfully curated lineup of events that foster meaningful community connections,” said Kelly Lawrence, marketing manager at The Avenue Peachtree City. “From charitable efforts like our Stepping into Spring shoe drive to interactive gatherings like our Spring Festival, this year’s programming highlights how guests can embrace the energy and renewal of the season.”

BLOOM 2026 will feature a wide selection of themed activities for guests to enjoy, including:

First Day of BLOOM Festivities: Fri., April 3 from 4:00 – 9:30 p.m. – Central Park

Join The Avenue Peachtree City on April 3 as the center officially kicks off BLOOM with a variety of community-focused, family-friendly events and activities, including:

  • Arts and Crafts Market: 4:00 – 9:30 p.m.: Watch Central Park transform into an open-air gallery of local creativity. The center’s Arts and Crafts Market will showcase handcrafted goods and original artwork from talented creators, including members of the Newnan Coweta Art Association, offering guests a chance to browse a unique selection of one-of-a-kind pieces.
  • Spring Festival and Bunny Photos: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.: Guests can enjoy outdoor fun with festive face painting, interactive activities and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny, creating memorable springtime moments for families and friends.
  • Egg ‘Hunt’: Starting at 6:00 p.m.: Children ages two to 10 are invited to participate in a community egg hunt, racing to collect treats and fill their baskets with seasonal goodies. Families are encouraged to arrive early, as this popular event begins promptly at 6:00 p.m.
  • First Friday: 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.: Guests can enjoy an evening of live music during the center’s First Friday series in partnership with The Venus Kings. Bringing music lovers and the community together through entertainment and shopping with local vendors and retailers, The Venus Kings will open the night with a performance at 7:00 p.m., followed by a set from The Natti Lovejoys. 

For those who aren’t able to attend this month’s performance, head to The Avenue Peachtree City on May 1 for the next edition of First Friday, which will feature performances from The Venus Kings and Highway 54 Blues Band.

Stepping into Spring Shoe Drive: Sat., April 4 at 4:00 p.m. – Kendra Scott

Hosted by Kendra Scott, this shoe drive will provide shoppers the opportunity to give back to the community by donating new or gently used shoes and sneakers to Bloom Fosters, who will distribute them to children in need. 

ON x Fleet Feet Scavenger Hunt: Thurs., April 9 at 6:30 p.m. – Fleet Feet

Lace up those shoes and head to the center for an interactive scavenger hunt throughout Peachtree City, hosted by ON and Fleet Feet. 

Starting at 6:30 p.m., participants will have 45 minutes to complete a series of challenges, earning raffle entries through selfies, tasks and social media posts. Once the timer runs out, attendees will reconvene at 7:25 p.m. for prizes, giveaways and more, delivering a fun, high-energy experience for all participants.

LifeSouth Blood Drive: Wed. April 22 from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. – Suite 1050

Guests are encouraged to support the LifeSouth Blood Drive by donating blood to help this community-focused initiative. All donors will receive a LifeSouth umbrella, and platelet and double red cell donors will also receive a $40 e-gift card.

Fur-ever Spring: Sat., April 25 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. – Central Park

Pet lovers are invited to enjoy a lively afternoon celebrating their four-legged friends. The event will feature professional pet photography by Shannon Hughes Pet Photography, training demonstrations by Serenity K9 and a selection of local pet vendors, offering a fun and engaging experience for pets and their owners.

For more information on events and promotions, visit www.avenuepeachtreecity.com.

INSOMNIAC AND VIBEE ANNOUNCE HOTEL EDC’S FIRST EAST COAST EDITION WITH EDC ORLANDO DEBUT AT MARGARITAVILLE RESORT 

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/30/26

Hotel EDC and EDC Orlando will take place on November 6-9, 2026

Hotel EDC packages will go on sale at 12pm ET/9am PT on April 1 via http://hoteledcorlando.com/

EDC Orlando festival passes will go back on sale at 12pm ET/9am PT on April 2 via https://orlando.electricdaisycarnival.com/

Building upon the consecutive success of its flagship luxury hospitality pop-up in Las Vegas, global dance music experience curator Insomniac and music-led destination experience company Vibee have just unveiled the debut of Hotel EDC Orlando for the 2026 edition of Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Orlando. Marking the first-ever East Coast location, Hotel EDC will take over Margaritaville Resort Orlando during the festival dates from November 6-9, 2026. The inaugural Hotel EDC promises a multisensory weekend of custom events that will redefine the headliner experience. For information on packages and pricing, visit hoteledcorlando.com.

Hotel EDC packages include a 3-night stay at Margaritaville Resort Orlando with options to bundle EDC Orlando festival passes. Set within the island-inspired, escapist setting of Margaritaville Resort Orlando, the property will be completely reimagined through the visionary lens of EDC, transporting guests to a new dimension and deepening their weekend experience. 

Hotel EDC will be the exclusive and only official Headliner hotel for EDC Orlando with luxurious EDC-themed guest rooms, spacious suites, and private villas and cottages, designed to elevate every guest’s stay.

The packages will include access to EDC pool parties, after-hours events, wellness programming, exclusive merchandise, on-property beauty bar, and interactive on-site activations. Headliners will also enjoy daily food and beverage credits, premium on-site dining options, 24/7 Vibee guest concierge, and curated resort activities throughout the weekend. 

ACCOMMODATIONS:

  • 3 night stay at Margaritaville Resort Orlando with option to add additional nights
  • EDC-ified decor in every room
  • Headliner party pack with exclusive merch
  • Dedicated Vibee Concierge on site all weekend
  • Free Self-Parking, 24/7 gym access, 20% off spa

EXPERIENCES:

  • Exclusive access to Insomniac-themed daytime and after parties at the Hotel EDC Pool
  • Eye-catching Hotel EDC photo-ops, performers, surprise events + more
  • Daily wellness activities, including meditation and yoga
  • Headliner HQ with daily activities and more
  • Complimentary glam station to get you rave-ready
  • And much more!

FOOD & BEVERAGE:

  • Daily food and beverage credits to use at select dining locations on property throughout the resort
  • World-class dining onsite, including Euphoria, Tapas by Euphoria, and Promenade at Sunset Walk.

EDC Orlando will return to its longtime home at Tinker Field to celebrate its 15th edition from November 6-9, 2026. The 2025 edition featured standout performances from artists such as Armin van Buuren, Adam Beyer b2b Layton Giordani, Chris Lake, VOYD, Excision, Zedd, DJ Snake, Dom Dolla, Subtronics, Charlotte de Witte, Knock2, and many more.

Earlier this year, Hotel EDC made its first-ever expansion, heading overseas to EDC Thailand, offering guests a luxurious four-night stay experience at the five-star Angsana Laguna Phuket. Located on the beachfront, the experience included access to the resort’s beaches, on-site dining, water activities, and wellness programming. Hotel EDC Thailand returns December 17-21, 2026 with packages available for purchase at thailand.electricdaisycarnival.com/hotel-edc. 

Together, Insomniac and Vibee are redefining the Headliner journey with seamless, elevated, and fully immersive Hotel EDC experiences in Las Vegas, Thailand, and now Orlando.

Hotel EDC Orlando Packages go on sale at 12pm ET / 9am PT on April 1. For more information and early access, please visit hoteledcorlando.com.

EDC Orlando festival passes will go back on sale the following day at 12pm ET / 9am ET on April 2 at https://orlando.electricdaisycarnival.com/

Stay connected with EDC Orlando for forthcoming announcements and information via Website, Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok.

SPRING IN BLOOM POP-UP AT ST. JULEP ROOFTOP

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/30/26

From Wednesday, April 1 through Tuesday, June 30, St. Julep, the indoor-outdoor rooftop lounge at Buckhead’s Kimpton Sylvan hotel, will transform into Spring in Bloom, an immersive pop-up celebrating the beauty, color and energy of the season. 

With views nine stories above East Paces Ferry Road, guests will be able to step into a garden oasis complete with floral installations, décor and fresh seasonal flavors – a setting for golden hour, date night, group gatherings and more. The pop-up will also feature dedicated photo moments for getting into the spring spirit. 

A menu of seasonal craft cocktails will be available, featuring refreshing, floral-inspired flavors and thoughtful presentation, including:

  • Pink Thaw with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Giffard Crème de Fraise des Bois, Giffard Crème de Framboise & lime
  • Garden Blitz with Hendrick’s Gin, Giffard Crème de Pêche de Vigne, passionfruit & lemon
  • A Smoke in the Garden with Rosaluna Mezcal, Whispering Angel Rosé, lime & simple syrup
  • Lavender Margarita with Lalo Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, lime & lavender syrup
  • Midnight Rain with Siete Leguas Blanco Tequila, Sour AF Lime, Regan’s Orange Bitters, Club Soda & Blue Spirulina
  • Rooftop Ranch Water with Ocho Blanco Tequila, lime, El Guapo Fuego Bitters & Fever Tree Sparkling Cucumber
  • Thistle & Tropic with Bacardi Ocho Rum, Giffard Caribbean Pineapple & Amaro Nonino
  • Greenhouse Fire with Espolon Blanco, Ancho Reyes Verde, agave, lime & El Guapo Fuego Bitters 

Alongside the limited edition drinks and full menu, the bar will offer a few special bites for grazing, including:

  • Spanish Chicken Croquettes with garlic aioli
  • Tuna Empanada with salsa verde
  • Vegetable Spring Rolls with sweet Thai chili sauce

PONCE CITY MARKET TO HOST EARTH DAY CELEBRATION WITH GEORGIA FORESTRY FOUNDATION & FRIENDS ON SATURDAY, APRIL 25

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/30/26

Located on The Trestle, Celebration will Feature Engaging Activities & Demonstrations, Smokey Bear, a Youth Scavenger Hunt & More

Ponce City Market announces its annual Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 25 with Georgia Forestry Foundation and friends. Free and open to the public, the event will be from 10am to 3pm at The Trestle, the breezeway connecting Ponce City Market to the Atlanta Beltline.

Hosted by the Georgia Forestry Foundation, and sponsored by Georgia Power, this event will feature a diverse group of leading forestry and environmentally-focused non-profits, including Georgia Grown, Georgia Forestry Commission, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Georgia Conservancy, Chattahoochee Nature Center, Trust for Public Land, Birds Georgia, and Fernbank Science Museum. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore engaging activities and demonstrations, check out a youth scavenger hunt, meet Smokey Bear, and more.

Walking and biking to the Earth Day Celebration is encouraged. For those arriving by car, parking is suggested on Level 3 of Ponce City Market’s Main Parking Deck, accessible via the ramp adjacent to Pancake Social.

MIMMS MUSEUM OF TECHNOLOGY AND ART DEBUTS LANDMARK APPLE EXHIBIT APRIL 1, MARKING 50 YEARS OF INNOVATION

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/27/26

Largest Public Display of Apple Artifacts to Open in Roswell, GA

Following Exclusive Preview with Early Apple Employees

Largest Public Display of Apple Artifacts to Open in Roswell, GA

Following Exclusive Preview with Early Apple Employees

 In celebration of Apple’s 50th anniversary, Mimms Museum of Technology and Art (Mimms Museum) will debut iNSPIRE: 50 Years of Innovation from Apple on Wednesday, April 1. This first-of-its-kind exhibition will showcase more than 2,000 artifacts across 20,000 square feet, making it the largest public display of Apple products in the world.

Ahead of the public opening, the museum hosted an exclusive preview weekend featuring five of Apple’s earliest employees, offering an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the origins of one of the most influential companies in modern history.

The preview included a Legacy Dinner, where early Apple employees, Chris Espinosa, Daniel Kottke, George Crow, Randy Wigginton and Taylor Pohlman, joined museum leadership for an intimate first look at the exhibition. Guests revisited the early days of Apple, sharing personal stories while viewing original artifacts such as handwritten manuals, Apple II computers and rare prototypes. The evening concluded with a panel discussion exploring their experiences and the foundation of Apple’s innovations.

“Apple has fundamentally shaped how we experience technology in our daily lives,” says Lonnie Mimms, founder and CEO of Mimms Museum. “Sharing this exhibition with some of the original minds behind these innovations, and seeing their reactions to the artifacts on display, was an incredibly meaningful way to introduce this new permanent exhibition.”

On Saturday, March 21, Mimms Museum also hosted its annual fundraiser, BYTE26, welcoming a sold-out crowd for an exclusive preview of the exhibit ahead of its official opening. The event and contributions for iNSPIRE together raised more than $250,000 to support the new exhibition and the museum’s educational programming.

Opening April 1, iNSPIRE: 50 Years of Innovation from Apple will offer visitors a unique look into one of the most influential brands in modern history, highlighting early computers, rare prototypes, original documentation and immersive installations inspired by Apple’s most iconic products and campaigns, creating a multigenerational experience that explores the evolution of technology and its impact on society.

“Our hope is this exhibit will inspire future innovators to think creatively, pursue their passions and imagine what’s possible,” said Rena Youngblood, executive director of Mimms Museum.

To learn more about the Mimms Museum, visit MimmsMuseum.org. For museum updates and events, follow the museum on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn .

JAMES BEARD AWARD-WINNING CHEF AND AUTHOR VIRGINIA WILLIS JOINS 3RD ANNUAL CAPE FEAR WINE & FOOD EXPERIENCE – NC

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/25/26

Benefiting GLOW Academy and Spark Academy

The 3rd Annual Cape Fear Wine & Food Experience returns April 15–18, 2026,

featuring special guest, acclaimed James Beard Award-winning chef and cookbook author Virginia Willis. The multi-day epicurean celebration serves as a key annual fundraiser for Beacon Education, supporting the Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington (GLOW Academy) and Spark Academy.

Chef Willis, a classically trained French chef and Georgia native based in Atlanta, is known nationally for her expertise in Southern cuisine. She is an author of multiple cookbooks, including the James Beard Award Winning Lighten Up, Y’all, and has appeared on national television programs including, Food Network, Martha Stewart Living, and CBS This Morning. Her work celebrates the intersection of refined technique and Southern culinary traditions, earning her recognition as one of the South’s most respected culinary voices.

The Cape Fear Wine & Food Experience kicks off on Wednesday, April 15, with intimate community dinners hosted at local residences and select Wilmington restaurants. Willis will headline a multi-course Celebrity Chef Dinner on Friday, April 17, showcasing her signature modern Southern cuisine. The weekend culminates on Saturday, April 18, with the Grand Tasting and Grand Auction at GLOW Academy, where standout local restaurants and renowned wineries from around the world will offer curated tasting experiences for guests and Chef Willis will be autographing her cookbooks and providing samples of her Southern culinary creations.

The Cape Fear Wine & Food Experience is Beacon Education’s signature, multi-day epicurean fundraiser

benefiting GLOW Academy and Spark Academy. Now in its third year, the event brings together renowned

chefs, celebrated winemakers, and community supporters to celebrate the power of education. Sponsorship opportunities and individual tickets for Community Dinners and the Grand Tasting and Grand Auction are available. Event details and ticket information can be found at https://capefearwineandfood.com

MARKET IN THE PARK DEBUTS IN GRANT PARK EARTH DAY WEEKEND 

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/22/26

A New Monthly Gathering Presented by the Grant Park Conservancy Brings Food, Music, Makers and Community to Atlanta’s Oldest Park

Kicking Off Sunday, April 19 | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

The Grant Park Conservancy is launching Market in the Park, a new monthly gathering designed to bring neighbors, food, music, and local makers together in Grant Park, Atlanta’s oldest public park. Debuting on Sunday, April 19 and continuing May 17 and June 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the new series will transform the Boulevard Green at Grant Park Gateway into a lively community hub filled with chef-driven bites, local vendors, music, and programming, with free admission for all ages, inviting people from across the city to spend the day in the park.

Produced by the Conservancy as part of its ongoing work to activate and enhance Grant Park, Market in the Park creates a fresh reason to gather in the heart of the park. Building on the same thoughtful curation that has made the Conservancy’s Summer Shade Festival a beloved neighborhood tradition, each market will feature a mix of prepared foods from local chefs, seasonal produce from regional growers, artisan and vintage vendors, live music, free yoga, workshops, and family-friendly programming throughout the day.

The series also arrives as several Conservancy-led improvements continue to take shape across the park. Just steps from the market lawn, the historic Milledge Fountain area is being transformed into the Milledge Fountain Outdoor Classroom and Theatre, a new space designed for performances, educational programming, and community gatherings. Along with ongoing improvements at the Boulevard Green and Gateway entrance, these projects reflect the Conservancy’s broader effort to make Grant Park an even more welcoming place to gather, learn, and connect.

“Grant Park has always been a place where Atlanta comes together,” said Michelle Blackmon, Executive Director of the Grant Park Conservancy. “Through our community survey and ongoing conversations with neighbors, we heard a clear desire for more opportunities to gather in the park and support local vendors. Market in the Park is our way of bringing that idea to life while continuing the Conservancy’s work to invest in spaces that help the park serve the community for years to come.”

The inaugural Earth Day edition is already shaping up with a lively mix of participants. Big Softie will make its first-ever appearance at a neighborhood market, while Sweet Auburn Barbecue and Tio Lucho’s Hermanita will bring chef-driven bites to the lawn. Zoo Atlanta will host educational programming for families, The Little Gym of Grant Park will offer free gymnastics activities for kids, and CHaRM (Center for Hard to Recycle Materials) will share ways residents can recycle responsibly and reduce waste at home. More vendors and programming will be revealed in the coming weeks, with a growing mix of artisans, farmers, plant vendors, vintage sellers, and community organizations joining the market throughout the season.

The Grant Park Conservancy’s new Market in the Park is designed around a simple idea: goods and gatherings for all. Parking is available at the Grant Park Gateway parking facility at 759 Boulevard SE, Atlanta, GA 30315. For additional information, including vendor and programming lineups, visit www.gpconservancy.org. Stay connected via Instagram at @grantpark.atlanta.