Tag Archive for: adventures in atlanta

SSAMJANG KOREAN BBQ CELEBRATES ITS FIRST ANNIVERSARY WITH AN ALL-DAY BASH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/14/25

Exciting Giveaways, Indulgent Bites, Tasty Beverages, and More Surprises Await

Marking One Year on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 11 a.m. to Midnight

SsamJang Korean BBQ is celebrating a milestone with a month of festivities leading up to an all-day anniversary bash on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Known for its premium cuts and immersive dining experience, the Korean barbecue destination, led by husband-and-wife team Amy and Tony Bae, has spent the past year bringing vibrant flavors and dynamic tableside grilling to the Cobb community.

To show appreciation for its guests, SsamJang is hosting a month-long raffle throughout March, featuring over 15 incredible prizes. Diners who visit and follow SsamJang on Instagram will have a chance to win big-ticket items like a $500 Visa gift card, Dyson Airwrap, Apple Watch, Braves tickets, and more.

The celebrations culminate in an all-day anniversary event on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 11 a.m. to midnight. Guests can expect sweet treats, pop-up experiences, and a cotton candy cart from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., plus plenty of surprises along the way. Exclusive dining specials will run throughout the weekend, starting Friday, March 21, through Sunday, March 23, with $25 lunch and $35 dinner deals on SsamJang’s premium all-you-can-eat offerings. The bar is also joining the celebration with limited-time drink specials, including buy-one-get-one soju, $6 signature cocktails, $4 well drinks, and an anniversary beer tower for just $10.

SsamJang is open from 11 a.m. to midnight, Monday through Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays. Every Friday, diners can enjoy All-You-Can-Eat lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Located at 2860 Cumberland Mall, Ste 1109, Atlanta, GA 30339, SsamJang offers complimentary valet parking. For more details or reservations, visit ssamjangbbq.com and follow on Instagram at @ssamjang_kbbq.

WESTSIDE MOTOR LOUNGE HOSTS MENTAL AWAKENING FEST 2025 ON APRIL 4 & 5, 2025 

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/14/25

A Two-Day Celebration of Music, Art, & Community Benefitting Crawfish For A Cause

Tickets On Sale Now

Westside Motor Lounge welcomes the return of Mental Awakening, a two-day festival filled with live music, local art, and community spirit, on Friday, April 4, and Saturday, April 5, 2025. Presented by Crawfish For A Cause, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds and awareness for mental health and suicide prevention, the annual event brings together music lovers, artists, and advocates for an unforgettable weekend — all in support of critical mental health initiatives in the Atlanta area. Now in its fifth year, Mental Awakening has grown from a backyard gathering with just two bands into a multi-day festival that draws over 2,000 attendees, showcases a dozen bands, and raises thousands of dollars to support local nonprofits working directly with individuals, schools, and treatment centers across the community.

The 2025 lineup is packed with standout performances from Eggy, Shadowgrass, Kyle Hollingsworth Band, Clay Street Unit, Dizgo, Arkansauce, Nether Hour, Potch, Three Star Revival, Cody Matlock, Spaghetti Western, The Regulars, The Redwoods, and Tate Renner. Whether music fans are longtime supporters or first-time festivalgoers, the diverse mix of jam bands, bluegrass, rock, and funk offers something for everyone.

Along with two full days of music, guests can explore work from local artists, enjoy a wide variety of food and drinks, and dig into the festival’s signature crawfish boil on Saturday. Crawfish lovers, take note— Saturday’s signature crawfish boil is always a hot ticket, and servings are limited. Snag crawfish tickets in advance when purchasing festival admission to not miss out. 

Westside Motor Lounge, known for its expansive indoor-outdoor space, will again serve as the home for the weekend’s festivities. Spanning nearly three acres, the venue features a full-service restaurant, two bars, a private event space, Echo Room — a curated Jazz Kissa listening bar — and a vibrant outdoor courtyard with shuffleboard courts, fire pits, ample seating, a vintage Airstream bar, and a performance stage that will showcase all of the weekend’s live music.

Tickets are on sale now, including single-day and weekend passes, with an option to pre-purchase crawfish servings on Saturday for $10. For those unable to attend in person, donations to Crawfish For A Cause can be made directly via Venmo at @crawfishforacauseatl or on Eventbrite, helping fund vital mental health services and programming throughout the Atlanta area. For the full lineup, ticket options, and additional details, visit Eventbrite. 

COST: $25-$70

Tickets are available here. 

BENEFITING: Crawfish for a Cause: https://crawfishforacause.com/ 

MUSIC:  Friday:  The Redwoods, Spaghetti Western, Dizgo, The Regulars, Shadowgrass

Saturday: Cody Matlock, Tate Renner, Three Star Revival, Clay Street Unit, Arkansauce, Kyle Hollingsworth Band, Eggy 

MARCH INTO SPRING WITH ST PATRICK’S DAY EXTRAVAGANZA AND MORE AT THE BATTERY ATLANTA

Posted by Liz and John, 3/14/25

Make the month memorable at Cobb County’s favorite open-air destination

The Battery Atlanta is set to host a lineup of lucky events this March, from festive St. Patrick’s Day celebrations to trivia nights and outdoor yoga. Punch Bowl Social kicks off the fun with its annual St. Paddy’s Day Palooza, featuring hidden pots of gold and discounted bowling and karaoke. Yoga lovers can unwind with Kaiser Permanente’s free outdoor classes, while sports enthusiasts cheer on the Atlanta Vibe Volleyball team at Good Game. Harry Potter fans can channel their inner wizard at Battle & Brew’s Harry Potter trivia night, and whiskey aficionados can celebrate International Whiskey Day at ASW Distillery. Coca-Cola Roxy keeps the music scene buzzing with performances from Russell Dickerson, HWASA and more.

Yoga Presented by Kaiser Permanente

Monday, March 17, 24 and 31; 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

The spring Yoga series has arrived! Yogis start the week off stress-free at an outdoor yoga class presented by Kaiser Permanente. As part of the Wellness Series at The Battery Atlanta, this free event is open to all ages to relax and unwind on the Plaza Green. Participants are required to bring a mat and encouraged to bring a water bottle. Register here!

Select Restaurant Promotions:

Atlanta Vibe Volleyball Watch Parties at Good Game

March 13, 15, 21, 23, 28 and 30; times vary

Cheer on the Atlanta Vibe Volleyball team at Good Game! These watch parties take place throughout the season, allowing supporters to cheer on the team, delight in tasty food and drinks and soak up the lively atmosphere on big screens. Spots can be reserved by visiting goodgameatl.com.

St. Paddy’s Day Palooza at Punch Bowl Social

Friday, March 14 – Monday, March 17; 11 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.

Punch Bowl Social is bringing the luck of the Irish to town with a weekend-long St. Paddy’s Day Palooza. Party-goers will hunt for hidden pots of gold throughout the venue for a chance to win prizes and surprises. During happy hour and brunch, bowling and karaoke are 50% off, and free games like cornhole and board games add to the festive fun. Reserve a spot, and get ready to go green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style!

Shamrocks and Shenanigans at Live!

Saturday, March 15 – 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Join Live! for a night of pure Irish revelry at Shamrocks and Shenanigans: St. Patrick’s Day Party on Saturday, March 15th, starting at 7:00 PM. They are bringing all your favorite Irish themed entertainment to Live! at The Battery Atlanta! Including signature drinks, green beer, and live entertainment to keep your St. Patrick’s Day pure gold. For more information, visit here!

40+ Singles Mixer at Battle & Brew

Sunday, March 23; 7:30 p.m.

Discover why sparks can fly at any age at this singles mixer for individuals seeking meaningful connections in a laid-back, yet sophisticated setting. Designed for those who know what they want and are not afraid to pursue it, this event offers the perfect opportunity to meet like-minded people. Whether looking for a soulmate, a new friend or simply an unforgettable night out, it’s the perfect chance to mix, mingle and let the magic unfold. For more information, visit the Battle & Brew website.

Cocktail Class at ASW

Monday, March 24; 2 – 3:30 p.m.

Learn to impress friends and family with newfound cocktail-making skills at an interactive cocktail class hosted by one of ASW’s lead mixologists. Participants will receive their own bar station equipped with all the necessary items to build three craft cocktails made with ASW’s award-winning spirits, including whiskey, vodka and gin. The class covers the basics of bartending and the art of cocktail creation, leaving time mingling. To learn more or reserve tickets, visit asw.com.

International Whiskey Day Tasting And Tour at ASW Distillery

Thursday, March 27; 7 – 8:15 p.m.

ASW Distillery invites whiskey lovers to celebrate International Whiskey Day with a special tasting and tour that will guide guests through four pours inspired by styles from around the world, including Fiddler Wheated Bourbon, Resurgens Rye, Druid Hill Irish-Style and Tire Fire Peated Single Malt. After the tasting, enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at how ASW’s award-winning craft vodka and gin are distilled on its stunning copper hybrid still. Attendees should arrive 15 minutes early for parking and check-in—and to grab a drink while they wait! $35 tickets can be purchased here.

Spellbound Harry Potter Party at Battle & Brew

Friday, March 28; 8 p.m.

Fans of the Wizarding World are invited to step into a night of enchantment at Spellbound: Harry Potter Cosplay Night to show off their house pride, cast spells and immerse themselves in magical moments alongside fellow witches and wizards. Whether Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw or Hufflepuff, all are welcome to don their robes and grab their broomsticks for a spellbinding evening. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at this link.

Atlanta Braves Fan Painting Class at Muse Paintbar

Saturday, March 29; 2 p.m.

Muse’s artist instructors guide patrons’ step by step through a Braves inspired masterpiece—no art experience needed! Their classic canvas events are perfect for a date night, a girls’ outing or a fun evening with friends.

Singles Mixer at Battle & Brew

Sunday, March 30; 7:30 – 10:30 p.m.

Battle & Brew is making sparks fly with a Singles Mixer for visitors to hunt for their permanent Player 2 or just bask in a fun night out and meet new faces. Grab a $15 and get more information at battleandbrewbattery.com.

Coca-Cola Roxy Events:

Coca-Cola Roxy at The Battery Atlanta continues to bring fans a lineup of their favorite performers throughout the month! Review venue safety guidelines and information here.

  • Russell Dickerson: Saturday, March 15 at 8 p.m.
  • Aaron Lewis and The Stateliners: American As It Gets: Friday, March 21 at 8 p.m.
  • JOHNNYSWIM: Saturday, March 22 at 8 p.m.
  • HWASA: TWITS Tour: Sunday, March 23 at 8 p.m.
  • Warren Zeiders: Relapse Tour: Friday, March 28 at 8 p.m.

SHAMROCK AND ROLL INTO THE BEST ST PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATIONS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/13/25

St. Patty’s Shenanigans

Luck is on Tap at The Pub @ EAV
Follow the rainbow to The Pub @ EAV this St. Patrick’s Day weekend for three days of festive food, drinks, and good times. From Friday, March 14, through Sunday, March 16, 2025, the neighborhood favorite is serving up specials worth raising a glass to. Sip on the Shamrock Silk cocktail, a velvety blend of vodka, Crème de menthe, coconut milk, and vanilla syrup, finished with coconut whipped cream, crushed Andes mint chocolate, and a dusting of edible green glitter. For those arriving hungry, Executive Chef Mike LaSage’s limited-time menu features the indulgent St. Patty’s Melt, classic Corned Beef and Cabbage, and a Shepherd’s Pie that’s as good as gold. Get ready to shamrock and roll—The Pub @ EAV is bringing the luck of the Irish to East Atlanta Village all weekend long. The Pub @ EAV is located at 469 Flat Shoals Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316. Stay updated at www.eavpub.com and follow along on Instagram and Facebook at @eavpub.

Grill for Gold this St Patrick’s Day at SsamJang Korean BBQ

This St. Patrick’s Day, SsamJang Korean BBQ is bringing a little extra luck to the table. From Friday, March 14th, through Monday, March 17th, guests can enjoy $10 beer bucket specials while grilling up premium meats like Marinated Short Rib and Bulgogi, accompanied by all the classic Korean BBQ fixings. Those sporting green can strike gold with a free dumpling appetizer to start the meal, kicking off a celebration full of flavor. Whether it’s sizzling meats, cold beer, or a table full of shareable plates, there’s no shortage of ways to raise a glass—or a chopstick—to the occasion. Conveniently located in Cumberland Mall at 2860 Cumberland Mall Ste 1109, Atlanta, GA 30339, SsamJang is open from 11 a.m. to midnight Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays. For more information or to make reservations, visit ssamjangbbq.com and follow along on Instagram @ssamjang_kbbq.

Lucky Leprechaun Karaoke Returns to Vesper 

Paint yourself green with envy if you’re not at Vesper this St. Patrick’s Day, as anybody who is anybody will be at the end of the proverbial rainbow to celebrate the Irish holiday. Beginning at 5 p.m. on Monday, March 17, 2025, enjoy $3 Irish whiskey shots, Pot of Gold green Jell-o shots, and festive vanilla mint Irish shots, all served up by a spirited staff rocking their best kilts. Then, at 7:30 p.m., the rainbow gets rocking as revelers belt out their favorite hits for leprechaun karaoke, the cocktail lounge’s new favorite annual tradition. Lucky leprechauns donned in their best St. Patty’s Day attire will have the chance to win an array of prizes taken straight from the pot o’ gold, including a mini-keg of beer for the best-dressed performer. Vesper is located on the Atlanta BeltLine in Glenwood Park at 924 Garrett St., Suite D, Atlanta, GA 30316. For more information, visit www.vesperatl.com or call 404.343.1174. Stay connected on Facebook and Instagram at @vesperatl. 

GET READY TO SHAM-ROCK WITH ATLANTIC STATION THIS WEEKEND!


Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Shamrock the Station With Performances, Festive Activities and Green Beer!


WHAT:
Atlantic Station’s Shamrock the Station 
WHEN:
Saturday, March 15, 2025 | 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.            
WHERE:
Atlantic Station | Atlantic Green | 1380 Atlantic Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30363 
COST:
Event entry: Free | Two hours of complimentary parking in the deck below 

 Get ready to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style at Shamrock the Station this Saturday at Atlantic Station! Dive into the festivities with Irish-themed vendors, friendly costumed greeters, face painting and plenty of green beer! Enjoy lively performances from the Drake School dance troupe, sham-rock with the Jammin’ DJ, snap a pic at the Irish-themed photo op and explore a range of fun activities that bring Irish culture and traditions to life! Check out the schedule of events below, and get ready to experience the luck of the Irish this Saturday! 

General Schedule of Events:
12 p.m. – Shamrock the Station Begins 
12 p.m. – 4 p.m. – Atlantic Station Bar open for green beer and other beverages (non-alcoholic options included)  
Groove along to the Jammin’ DJ 
Grab some green necklaces and shamrock glasses keepsakes 
Snap a pic at the Shamrockin’ Photo Op 
Visit the Creator’s Market vendors located around Atlantic Green 
4 p.m. – Shamrock the Station Wraps 

Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. Please bring a valid ID. Cash and cards are accepted. Bring family and friends and of course, don’t forget to wear green! Visit here for all the details of the return of Shamrock the Station! 

Atlantic Station’s dining scene is also celebrating with special St. Patrick’s Day offers you don’t want to miss! Atlantic Grill will be serving Irish favorites with specials on beer, cocktails and shots. Azotea Cantina will be serving green beer and green tea shots. HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern will be offering green beer and Luck of the Irish cocktails, Guinness glazed wings and corn beef Ruebens. Kilwins will be offering a 10% discount on any order that includes green items. Toscano Ristorante Italiano will also be offering green beer. Visit here for a complete list of St. Patrick’s Day dining offers! 

Sat., March 15 & Mon., March 17, 1pm – St. Patrick’s Day Two-Day Block Party at Fado Irish Pub

Fadó Irish Pub in Buckhead is celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a two-day block party event on Saturday, March 15 and Monday, March 17. On Saturday, guests can enjoy live music, Irish dancers and bagpipers throughout the day. The outdoor event starts at 1pm, but for early risers, doors will open early for Kegs & Eggs, EPL and Six Nations Rugby. On Monday, doors will open at 10am for brunch, and guests can enjoy indoor live music from Desire, plus a DJ spinning favorites throughout the day. Tickets are available here – this event is 21+.

‘DISCOVER SKIPTOWN’ WITH A WEEK FULL OF TAIL-WAGGING EVENTS MARCH 17-23

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/11/25

The Dog Park, Pet Care Facility, and Social Club Grand Opening Week Is Something to Bark About!
 

 Skiptown has officially fully launched the first Georgia location in the Kirkwood and Edgewood neighborhoods of Atlanta at 200 Arizona Ave NE. The 39,200-square-foot facility houses an indoor/outdoor dog park, grooming salon, daycare and boarding services, and social club complete with an indoor bar and food offerings for an environment that caters to both pups and their people. In celebration, Skiptown is hosting ‘Discover Skiptown,’ a grand opening week filled with events, activations, giveaways and pet perks this March 17-23.
 
“We are proud to be here in Atlanta offering a completely different kind of pet experience,” said newly appointed Skiptown CEO, Mike Rotondo. “Skiptown was created with both pups and people in mind, with the goal of providing a safe one-stop pet care partner where people could meet the needs of their pups while having a great time doing it! We offer quality pet care and play areas, a dedicated team of Skippers who truly love and care for each dog, and a social club where pup parents can unwind and connect with each other. We’re happy to be a part of this community and excited to have all areas fully activated to experience the magic of Skiptown.”
 
Pup parents, dog lovers, and Atlanta residents and community members are welcome to join Skiptown Kirkwood from March 17-23 for its official grand opening week, which will include free entry all week long. Skiptown is a 21+ facility, and persons under 21 years of age will not be permitted entry. Visitors must also register their pups in the Skiptown app prior to visiting.
 
The full week’s schedule includes:
 
Open Houses I Nightly All Week
From Monday-Thursday, Skiptown will also host tours of the facility from 6:30-8:30 p.m., with attendees receiving a “pawsport” at the beginning of the tour and collecting stamps at each station while learning more about Skiptown’s offerings.
 
Monday, March 17: St. Pawtrick’s Day Celebration I 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Make it a day to remember with St. Pawtrick’s Day fun at Skiptown! The facility will offer a specialty, one-day-only green cocktail that sparkles like a pot of gold, green dog treats and biscuits courtesy of Taj Ma-Hound, and a fun take-home reminder of the day with a photo booth complete with pawesome props for both pups and people. The grooming salon will even be dyeing tails green and offering shamrock stencils so pups can join in on the festive green-wearing fun!
 
Tuesday, March 18: Pup Parent Mixer with The Atlanta Dog Mom Social Club I 6-8 p.m.
Looking to mix and mingle with other dog lovers? Pup parents and their pups are invited to meet new friends at a mixer in partnership with the Atlanta Dog Mom Social Club! Attendees can meet and hang out in the social club, by the bar, or in the dog park while their pups play with each other. A percentage of bar sales from mixer attendees will be donated back to the Atlanta Dog Mom Social Club’s nonprofit, which is dedicated to helping Atlanta pet parents afford foods, medications, and more. All dog lovers are welcome, so come out and have a bark-tastic time with Skiptown and the Atlanta Dog Mom Social Club!
 
Wednesday, March 19: Pup Adoption Day with The Atlanta Humane Society I 12-2 p.m. and 4-6 p.m.
Give a pup in need its new fur-ever home with Skiptown and the Atlanta Humane Society. Skiptown has partnered with the AHS to host dog adoption events from 12-2 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. for anyone looking to adopt their first pup or give their current pup(s) a new sibling. Before the events, Skiptown will give each dog up for adoption a full complimentary groom. Every person who adopts a pup will receive a free, year-long VIP Skiptown Membership, and Skiptown will also donate $1 from the sale of each of its frozen drinks, including the popular “Paw-riffic Peach” and “Barking Berry” back to the Atlanta Humane Society.
 
Thursday, March 20: Skiptown’s March Madness Kickoff I 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Basketball fans can hoop and howl for their favorite teams and celebrate the official start of March Madness with a dog-friendly watch party! Attendees are invited to sport their team jerseys and dress their pups up in them too while they watch their favorite matchups, have drinks at the bar, and take photos in Skiptown’s basketball-themed photo booth. Skiptown will also have basketball-shaped treats from Barking Dog Bakery that are sure to be a slam dunk with pups!
 
Friday, March 21: Military & First Responders Appreciation Day I 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Active military members, veterans, EMTs, and other first responders are invited to enjoy a day at Skiptown with their pups! Skiptown will have special red, white, and blue bandanas for dogs, drink specials, and a complimentary one-month membership for service members who attend and show their service ID.
 
Saturday March 22 & Sunday, March 23: Discover Skiptown’s Pup-Tastic Weekend Celebration I 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Skiptown is ending the week with a massive celebration that will last all weekend long! Guests can enjoy a caricature artist creating hand-drawn pictures of them with their pups from 12-4 p.m., a mini “pup-up” shop with treats and goods from other dog-centered businesses, like Fi Collar and The Farmer’s Dog, a digital photo booth courtesy of Engage Media Booth Co., raffles, giveaways, and more!
 
For more details on Skiptown’s full opening week offerings, visit the website here.

CORK & GLASS AND CASA NUOVA UPCOMING MARCH EVENTS 2025

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/10/25

Banfi Tasting Takeover

Tuesday, March 11
4:00-5:30 PM at Cork & Glass | 5:30-7:00 PM at Casa Nuova

Free
A special tasting event featuring Banfi Wines, known for their exceptional Brunello di Montalcino and other Italian varietals.

Enfield Tasting Takeover with John Lockwood

Wednesday, March 12
5:00-7:00 PM at Cork & Glass

Free
Meet John Lockwood, the winemaker behind Enfield Wine Co., and taste his terroir-driven, small-batch wines that highlight California’s unique vineyard sites.

Jackson Family Wine & Cheese Educational Class

Tuesday, March 18

6:00-7:30 PM at Cork & Glass
$30 per person
A guided educational experience featuring expertly paired Jackson Family Wines:
Matanzas Creek Sonoma Sauvignon Blanc
Hartford Court Russian River Chardonnay & Pinot Noir
La Crema Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon
Stonestreet Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
Reserve Your Spot: Secure Payment Link

GWINNETT BURGER WEEK RETURNS FOR 10TH ANNIVERSARY – MARCH 17 TO 23

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/10/25

Explore Gwinnett Celebrates a Decade of Culinary Creativity

with $10 Chef-Crafted Burgers at 23 Locally Owned Restaurants

Explore Gwinnett, the official tourism organization of Gwinnett County, is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its popular Gwinnett Burger Week. Making its anticipated return March 17–23, 2025, the event invites burger lovers to enjoy exclusive, chef-crafted creations for just $10 at 23 locally owned restaurants across the county.

“We are proud to celebrate a decade of Gwinnett Burger Week and the incredible talent of some of our very best local chefs,” said Lisa Anders, chief operating officer of Explore Gwinnett. “What started as a way to highlight locally owned eateries has grown into a beloved tradition, and we cannot wait for the community to see what we have in store for them this year!”

Throughout the week, each of 23 participating restaurants will feature an exclusive, off-menu burger. A few highlights include:

“That’s My Jam” at Old Fountain Tavern, a juicy patty piled high with creamy Fontina and Gruyère cheeses, crispy bacon, balsamic onion jam, fresh arugula, and finished with sun-dried tomato mayo on a toasted brioche bun.

“The GW Feature Burger” at Good Word Brewing and Public House, a four-ounce beef patty topped with horseradish cheddar cheese, house-cured bacon bits, crispy jalapeños, sliced sweet onion and boiled peanut mayo on an Alon’s Bakery bun.

 “Birria Crunch Smash Burger” at Jose’s Birria & Burgers, one smashed burger patty with provolone cheese, topped with tallow onions, a crunchy corn tortilla, beef birria and a cilantro chimichurri mayo on a brioche bun.

Back for its second year, the Gwinnett Burger Week Digital Pass encourages diners to check in at participating restaurants and earn points throughout the week, which are redeemable for prizes. Each check-in is worth one point. Points can be redeemed for exclusive Gwinnett Burger Week merchandise from Explore Gwinnett, including restaurant gift cards, T-shirts, totes, sicker packs and a special edition 10th-anniversary burger sticker designed by Lawrenceville-based artist Max Eve in celebration of this milestone. Diners can also vote for their favorite burger by uploading an image of their receipt to the Gwinnett Burger Week website.

Participants who track their dining experience at 10 or more restaurants throughout the week will be inducted into the Gwinnett Burger Week Wall of Fame with their photo published on Explore Gwinnett’s website.

“Our 10th anniversary milestone reflects the passion and creativity of Gwinnett County’s culinary community and the enthusiasm of all those who make this event a success year after year,” said Anders. “We can’t wait to indulge in the exclusive $10 burger creations ourselves, as we toast to 10 years of one of our favorite events!”

To sign up for the Gwinnett Burger Week Pass, visit ExploreGwinnett.org/Gwinnett-Burger-Week/Burger-Week-Prize-Pass to provide the participant’s name, e-mail address and mobile phone number. A link will be sent to the participant’s phone, allowing them to access the pass and add the pass icon to their home screen.

For a full list of participating restaurants and limited-time burger offerings, visit www.ExploreGwinnett.org/Gwinnett-Burger-Week.

For more information about Gwinnett Burger Week*, visit ExploreGwinnett.org/the-latest/Gwinnett-Burger-Week-Know-Before-You-Go. Diners can vote for their favorite burger at ExploreGwinnett.org/Gwinnett-Burger-Week/Vote-Here. Stay up-to-date on the latest Explore Gwinnett news by following @ExploreGwinnett on Instagram or ExploreGwinnett on Facebook. Diners are encouraged to share their experience on social media by using the hashtag #GwinnettBurgerWeek.

*The Gwinnett Burger Week promotion is dine-in only and is not available via any third-party delivery service.

HORIZON THEATRE PRESENTS JENNIFER BLACKMER’S I CAN CARRY YOUR HEART WITH ME – MARCH 14 TO APRIL 5

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/10/25

Southeastern premiere of tour-de-force play starring Atlanta-favorite Carolyn Cook

Horizon Theatre Company continues its spectacular 40th season with the Southeastern premiere of the winner of the prestigious 2024 Steinberg/ATCA New Play Citation play I Carry Your Heart With Me, running March 14 – April 5 (press opening March 21). Esther, a stenographer inside a top-secret Vietnam-era debriefing room, has a picture-perfect world until she encounters an airman whose story quite literally changes her life. As she captures the stories of non-coms and POWs freshly back from the front lines, Esther finds herself smack dab in the middle of a troubling investigation. With plenty of twists and turns along the way, this tour-de-force starring renowned Atlanta actor Carolyn Cook is a taut, suspenseful mystery that packs a real emotional wallop.

“This play is an extraordinary story of a formative year in one woman’s life and how it profoundly shapes her future,” says Carolyn Cook. “Esther’s journey is one of both discovery and reckoning, and I’m honored to bring her story to life for Atlanta audiences. I hope they will find themselves as captivated as I was when I first read the script and could not put it down.” 

In this solo play by Jennifer Blackmer, Carolyn Cook (Suzi Award for Best Actress for Horizon’s Time Stands Still, and Best Supporting Actress for Citizens Market, also Horizon’s solo show The Syringa Tree) commands the stage as Esther Shannon, looking back on her formative time in her early 20s as a government stenographer for the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. Raised in a military family, Esther is now the new girl and best typist on the base, where she meets attractive officer Andy, who wines and dines her. Like her mother and grandmother before her, she seems destined to become a military wife and mother. Longing to make her father proud and to make a bigger difference, she thinks about taking her skills to Vietnam instead. Andy persuades her to stay stateside by pulling strings to get her a top-security clearance job on the base. Tasked with transcribing debriefings of POWs and non-coms returning from the front lines, she records their fractured memories of the war which seep into her and change her perspective on the world. Then Esther encounters a POW helicopter pilot whose story has a deep impact on her, ultimately causing a clash with her official duties and complicating her life. As she becomes entangled in an investigation, Esther grapples with her future in a suspenseful and emotionally charged journey.

A blend of fact and fiction, the play is inspired by playwright Jennifer Blackmer’s mother’s real-life experiences as a young stenographer with a similar job on the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base during the Vietnam War. Blackmer’s mother revealed some of her experiences to her daughter before she passed away suddenly in her early 60s, leaving the playwright to put together the pieces and imagine the rest of her story. Jennifer Blackmer’s plays have been produced Off-Broadway and across the country, and she serves as Professor of Theatre and Executive Director of the Virginia B. Ball Center for Creative Inquiry at Ball State University. Blackmer was in residence at Horizon in 2023 as one of the lead mentors in Horizon’s New South Young Playwrights Festival.

Directed by Horizon Theatre’s Co-Artistic Director Lisa Adler, the production reunites her with one of her favorite collaborators, the talented Carolyn Cook. Adler has directed Cook in many productions over the past three decades, including her acclaimed performance in the solo play The Syringa Tree, which played at Horizon and toured venues in the Southeast, as well as her award-winning performances in Time Stands Still and Skylight. The world of the play is created with an evocative, poetic set by resident designers Isabel and Moriah Curley-Clay, shaped by lights from resident lighting designer Mary Parker and supported by projections from Victoria Nation (Horizon’s Amelie and Madeline’s Christmas) with sound by Whitney Leonard.

Performances begin March 14, with a press opening on March 21. Performances are Thursday and Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 5 p.m., with special Wednesday performances on March 19 at 8 p.m. and March 26 and April 2 at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $30 on Wednesdays and Thursdays and $35 for Friday nights, Saturday nights and weekend matinees. Prices rise as performances fill up, so patrons are encouraged to order early for the best prices and availability. Students under 25 can get $20 tickets with valid student ID by calling the box office or purchase in person before show time if seats are available. Single ticket seating is general admission, with a reserved seating section for season subscribers. There is limited accessible seating for those needing mobility accommodations, and it must be reserved by phone. For tickets and more information, visit horizontheatre.com or call the Box Office at 404.584.7450.

For full actor and creative team bios visit horizontheatre.com/plays/i-carry-your-heart-with-me

CREATIVE TEAM

Playwright                                          Jennifer Blackmer

Director                                                                          Lisa Adler

Set Designers                                                                  Isabel and Moriah Curley-Clay

Lighting Designer                                                            Mary Parker

Costume Designer                                                          Carrie Giglio

Sound Designer                                                              Whitney Leonard

Projection Designer                                                        Victoria Nation                 

CAST

Esther Shannon                                                              Carolyn Cook

THE AVENUE PEACHTREE CITY CELEBRATES SPRING’S ARRIVAL WITH FIRST-EVER BLOOM CAMPAIGN: A MONTH FILLED WITH ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS, COMMUNITY-FRIENDLY FUN

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/10/25

 Throughout BLOOM’s month of fun, the Peachtree City community can engage in eco-friendly activities and positively impact the environment by supporting local organizations

The Avenue Peachtree City is proud to present BLOOM, a month-long series of events and activities aimed to inspire sustainable practices and celebrate the start of spring. Set to run from March 23 to April 22, BLOOM will transform The Avenue Peachtree City into a prime location for eco-friendly events and activities.

“BLOOM offers attendees a rich blend of family-friendly fun with a meaningful message,” says Johnathan Andrews, general manager at The Avenue Peachtree City. “As the need to take care of our planet grows more and more important, we hope that BLOOM not only exposes the surrounding Peachtree City community to environmentally responsible practices but also to local organizations they can support in making a lasting impact.”

BLOOM is designed to inspire visitors to embrace sustainable living practices while building a stronger sense of community and promoting fresh beginnings. BLOOM will feature a diverse range of exciting activities for people of all ages, including:

World Water Day – On Saturday, March 22 from 1 to 3 p.m., The Avenue Peachtree City will host a World Water Day celebration featuring a children’s activity table water experiments. These activities will be provided with the help of the Flint Riverkeeper, an organization that works to maintain and protect the quality and flow of the Flint River and its tributaries. The Avenue Peachtree City will also launch a fundraiser on its Facebook page, allowing attendees to support the organization’s efforts through donations. Apart from these activities, the Avenue will giveaway 200 water bottles, while supplies last. 

Spring Festival – On Friday, April 18 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., The Avenue Peachtree City will host its Spring Festival at Central Park, featuring face painting, Bunny photos and an egg scavenger hunt with over 10,000 eggs provided by The Church of the King. Additional children’s activities will also be available at the Spring Festival courtesy of the Southern Conservation Trust, offering areas for families to take part in a butterfly craft along with stuffy adoptions, where kids can “adopt” a plush friend to take home. 

Arts & Crafts Market –The Avenue Peachtree City will host an Arts & Crafts Market on Tuesday, April 22 from 3:00 to 7:30 p.m. The event will feature artists and crafters from the Newnan-Coweta Art Association, a non-profit organization that fosters art education and the appreciation of art, encouraging artists to produce original works of art and more.

Earth Day Celebration – On Tuesday, April 22 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., The Avenue Peachtree City will cap off BLOOM at Central Park with activities that celebrate our planet. As part of the celebration, visitors can learn about animals from AWARE Wild Life Center, a wildlife center dedicated to rehabilitating injured and orphaned native Georgia wild animals and educating the public on peacefully coexisting with wildlife. The event will also feature several children’s activities provided by the Southern Conservation Trust, including a ‘Planting for the Planet’ activity where guests can plant and take home wildflowers to help support pollinators. 

During its Spring Festival and Earth Day celebrations, visitors of The Avenue Peachtree City will also be able to learn more about Southern Conservation Trust and the Fayette Environmental Education Center, chat with their teams and explore exciting activities at their booths.

For a full calendar of events, visit avenuepeachtreecity.com/bloom and follow The Avenue Peachtree City on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

SHAMROCKS & SHENANIGANS AT LIVE AT THE BATTERY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/10/25

Saturday, March 15 at 7pm

In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, guests can enjoy a night of revelry with green beer, a face painter, a violinist, photo ops, and signature cocktails created specialty for the event. Tickets are $20 per person and available here. This event is 21+.

  • Pot of Gold: coconut rum, sour apple & pineapple juice
  • Fuzzy Leprechaun: whiskey, peach schnapps, Blue Curaçao, sour mix & pineapple juice
  • Irish Margarita
  • Green beer: Coors Light & Miller Light