Tag Archive for: adventures in atlanta

23RD ANNUAL PARTY IN THE KITCHEN

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/22/26

Atlanta’s Culinary Community Comes Together for Open Hand Atlanta’s
23rd Annual Party in the Kitchen, Sept. 24
Beloved culinary fundraiser brings together the city’s top chefs, exclusive experiences
and supporters to advance Open Hand’s mission

Open Hand Atlanta invites supporters to its 23rd annual Party in the Kitchen fundraiser on Thursday, Sept. 24, from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM at The Foundry at Puritan Mill. Recognized as one of Atlanta’s premier culinary fundraising events, Party in the Kitchen will bring together Atlanta’s most celebrated chefs, an exclusive auction experience and hundreds of supporters for an evening that fuels Open Hand’s life-changing nutrition programs across Georgia.

Guests will sample signature dishes from some of Atlanta’s most acclaimed chefs, enjoy live entertainment and bid on exclusive silent auction opportunities. Returning as Chef Co-Chairs, renowned chefs Kevin Rathbun and Peter Kaiser are joined by Event Co-Chairs Robert Candler and Charles Mendez III, as well as a lineup of participating chefs from some of Atlanta’s most celebrated kitchens, including The Deer and The Dove Chef Terry Koval, KR SteakBar Chef Jessica Gamble, and Tiny Lou’s Chef Jason Stern, with additional chefs and culinary talent to be announced.

“The impact we’ve built over the last two decades with the Atlanta culinary community is extraordinary,” said Open Hand CEO Matthew Pieper. “Party in the Kitchen continues to celebrate the best of our city, from delicious food to incredible generosity. It’s a cornerstone in supporting the life-changing nutrition services Open Hand provides to thousands of Georgians every year.”

The event’s silent auction will feature coveted packages ranging from luxury travel experiences and premier Atlanta entertainment experiences to exclusive chef-curated dining opportunities.

Ahead of the Main Event, Open Hand will host an exclusive Patron Reception on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM at its Westside headquarters, the James A. Carlos Family Community Nutrition Center. Patron Reception guests will enjoy an intimate evening of culinary tastings from acclaimed Atlanta restaurants while touring Open Hand’s state-of-the-art facility and seeing firsthand how community support powers the organization’s mission.

Proceeds from Party in the Kitchen directly support Open Hand’s programs, which provide medically tailored meals and nutrition education, free of charge, to individuals facing chronic or severe illness across Georgia. Individual tickets to the Main Event are available for $400. Patron Reception admission packages begin at $1,250 and include access to both events.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit OpenHandAtlanta.org/PITK.

2026 SOUTHEAST PLANT SHOW

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/22/26

Saturday, June 27-Sunday, June 28

Gwinnett County Fairgrounds – Lawrenceville, GA

Website: www.southeastplantshow.com

he Southeast Plant Show returns for its 3rd annual event on June 27–28, 2026, at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds in Lawrenceville, Georgia. As the Southeast’s premier indoor plant event, the show brings together a world-class marketplace, expert speakers, family-friendly programming, and a vibrant plant-loving community.

Spanning two large, air-conditioned indoor buildings, the event offers a one-of-a-kind experience featuring rare plants, curated goods, and educational opportunities for all ages.

Event Hours:

  • Saturday, Jun 27, 2026
    • VIP Early Access: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
    • General Admission: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Sunday, Jun 28, 2026
    • General Admission: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

2025 Show Features:

  • 100+ vendors offering rare indoor and outdoor plants from Thailand, Ecuador, Indonesia, and more.
  • Jewelry, plant-themed décor, artisanal goods, and specialty plant care products.
  • Headline Sponsor: Rusty Exotics & Blue Moon Tropicals
  • Keynote Speaker: Derek Haynes (@thechocolatebotanist) and Jake (@jaketheplantguy).
  • Live lectures, workshops, and demonstrations throughout the weekend
  • Guest influencers, including Jan (@sydneyplantguy) and Kaylee Ellen (@kayleeellenofficial).
  • Food trucks, kids’ activity zone, and family-friendly entertainment.

Admission Info:

  • General Admission starts at $15, VIP Admission starts at $100.
  • Children 12 and under enter free
  • First responders, military personnel, teachers, and nurses receive free admission with a valid ID.

This event continues to grow as one of the most anticipated gatherings for plant lovers, hobbyists, collectors, and professionals across the Southeast and beyond.

ONE RECORD. THOUSANDS OF LIVES. GEORGIA FUNDRAISER AIMS TO TRANSFORM CHILDREN’S HEALTHCARE IN LIBERIA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/21/26

Family Fun Night, Community Celebration, and Historic Golf Marathon to Raise Funds for LIVE2540 Children’s Healthcare Programs

Local golfer Mike Woodard will attempt to break the current world record for the longest continuous game of golf, playing for more than 37 consecutive hours to raise awareness and funds for life-saving children’s healthcare programs in Liberia. Hosted by LIVE2540, a Georgia-based nonprofit providing healthcare access to vulnerable children in West Africa, “The Record” aims to raise $150,000 to support treatment for children suffering from malaria, typhoid, dysentery, malnutrition, and other preventable illnesses. The event will kick off with a community Family Fun Night featuring live music, family activities, games, food, and opening remarks before Woodard begins his historic attempt.

WHO:

  • Mike Woodard, World Record Attempt Participant
  • Daryl Roberts, Founder, LIVE2540
  • LIVE2540 Leadership Team
  • Community Sponsors and Supporters
  • Local Families and Community Members

WHEN:
Sunday, June 28, 2026
Family Fun Night: 5:00 PM
Opening Ceremony / First Tee-Off: 6:00 PM
World Record Attempt Begins: 6:00 PM
Media Interviews Available: Time TBD / Avails flexible based on media needs
Record Completion Expected: Tuesday, June 30, 2026 8:00 AM 

WHERE:
Cartersville Country Club
1310 Joe Frank Harris Pkwy SE, Cartersville, GA 30120

WHY IT MATTERS:
While this event centers around a world-record golf attempt, the mission extends far beyond the course. According to LIVE2540, just $38 can provide healthcare for a child suffering from common but potentially life-threatening illnesses. Through local partnerships and healthcare initiatives in Liberia, the organization has helped provide medical care to more than 25,000 children and delivered over one million malnutrition supplements. The event seeks to raise awareness about the global healthcare crisis facing children in underserved communities while inspiring local residents to become part of the solution.

ATLANTIC STATION ANNOUNCES FREE MATCH WATCH PARTIES AND FAN EXPERIENCES AHEAD OF TOURNAMENT

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/18/26

Free Kick It at the Station watch parties lead a summer of fan experiences; official merchandise pop-up and new retail concepts now open

As Atlanta prepares to welcome visitors from around the world for one of the biggest moments in international soccer, Atlantic Station is expanding its lineup of fan-focused experiences, led by Kick It at the Station, a free watch party series on the Atlantic Green, alongside new retail concepts and community activations designed to bring residents, visitors and fans together throughout the tournament.

Leading the lineup is Kick It at the Station, a free fan experience celebrating the global game. This summer, select matches will be shown on the Atlantic Green jumbotron, transforming the district’s signature outdoor space into a lively gathering place where fans can cheer on their favorite teams alongside fellow soccer enthusiasts. Additional programming and viewing opportunities will be announced throughout the tournament. The most up-to-date information, including viewing times and programming, can be found here.

Complementing the fan experience, the now-open World Cup Official Merch Pop-Up at Atlantic Station offers visitors access to tournament-inspired apparel, collectibles, accessories and fan gear. Located near Sephora on 18th Street, the more than 7,000-square-foot retail experience gives visitors a dedicated place to shop, celebrate and immerse themselves in the excitement surrounding the global game.

Beyond its tournament programming, Atlantic Station continues to introduce new retail and community-driven concepts. Also now open, The Market Place of Georgia is located on Atlantic Drive near Miniso and Art Station ATL in a 7,500-square-foot space. The marketplace showcases products from local entrepreneurs and artisans, offering everything from handmade soaps and home furnishings to artisan jewelry and specialty goods. Designed to celebrate creativity, craftsmanship and small businesses, the concept reflects Atlantic Station’s ongoing commitment to supporting local makers and introducing fresh experiences to the neighborhood.

Coming soon to Atlantic Station, The Belt Hub will bring its innovative micromobility concept to the property. Located on 17 ½ Street behind Sephora, the more than 4,000-square-foot space will offer e-bike rentals, retail, repairs and mobility-focused services designed to encourage accessible, community-centered transportation. The concept blends sustainability, technology and active transportation while adding to Atlantic Station’s growing mix of experiential offerings.

Together, these additions reflect Atlantic Station’s continued investment in experiential retail, community-centered activations and destination-driven concepts as Atlanta prepares to welcome soccer fans from around the world.

FULL SPEED INTO MATCH DAY AT F1® ARCADE 

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/16/26

Looking for the ultimate high-energy spot to catch the game? From kickoff to final whistle, experience every match with live screenings, DJ sets, immersive simulator racing, elevated food and drinks, and optional premium food and beverage packages.

This summer, F1® Arcade – the world’s first official Formula 1® hospitality experience – is transforming match day with World Cup Watch Parties across its U.S. venues. Featuring live broadcasts of the tournament’s most anticipated matches alongside DJs, elevated food and drink, simulator racing and high-energy fan experiences, F1® Arcade is set to become the ultimate destination to experience the World Cup this Summer.

Taking place in Boston, Philadelphia, Las Vegas, and Atlanta, World Cup Watch Parties will bring fans together all summer long. With matches broadcast across screens throughout the venue, supporters can experience every goal, save, and last-minute twist in an electrifying, high-energy atmosphere built for game day. Beyond the action on the screen, guests can keep the adrenaline going with immersive simulator racing and interactive experiences that turn every match into an all-day celebration. 

Throughout the tournament, guests can drop in for a great night out with friends — watching the action unfold while enjoying globally inspired dishes, signature cocktails, and soaking up the atmosphere on the simulators. For fans who want the full adrenaline experience, pre-book the Summer Food and Beverage Package, all of which guarantee you a seat in the venue and include a  few extra perks to level up the night. 

Club Experience Package — $65 per person

  • Curated food menu included with ticket (choice of entrée and side)
  • Two drink tokens for beer or wine
  • Complimentary sim racing 30 minutes before and during matches for the ultimate watch party experience
  • Guaranteed seating within prime access to the action

VIP Package — $135 per person

  • All-inclusive food service throughout the match
  • Six drink tokens for beer or wine
  • Complimentary sim racing 30 minutes before and during matches
  • Exclusive seating within the private Briefing Room

Match schedules and packages are available now for purchase online.

By combining live match screenings, simulator competition, elevated food and beverage offerings, and a vibrant social atmosphere, F1® Arcade delivers a uniquely engaging destination to experience every moment of the tournament.

POND HEADLINING ATLANTA AT TERMINAL WEST ON JULY 10

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/15/26

Before they kick off a run of support dates for Djo, they’ll kick things off at Terminal West on July 10 and I wanted to make sure you had it on your radar for coverage! The tour supports their new album Terrestrials which will be released next Friday.

Pond are one of the most versatile, inquisitive, and accomplished bands in the psychedelic rock vanguard. Made up of Nicholas Allbrook, Jay Watson, Joseph Ryan, James Ireland, and Jamie Terry, Pond was formed in 2010 in Fremantle, Western Australia. However, it wasn’t until the release of their 2013 record Beard, Wives, Denim that Pond went from a group of musicians and friends to an internationally touring band.

Today, Pond boasts an impressive catalog of recorded music, spanning ten critically-acclaimed albums. Since its beginnings, Pond’s prowess in the live arena has also been well documented. Sharing the stage with artists such as Flaming Lips, Queens of the Stone Age, Arctic Monkeys and more, they have also been on major festival lineups worldwide like Glastonbury, Coachella, Splendour in the Grass, and The Great Escape.

Like much of the Pond catalogue, Terrestrials is a record of people and place, of exploring the identity of each, as well as where and how they intersect and interact. Extractive capitalism, power dynamics, inequality, indigenous incarceration, eccentric outcasts, fire and water, diesel and dust, unity and division, blood and bauxite, unborn tomorrows and dead yesterdays – it’s all there. Terrestrials twitches with the desperation of people and planet on the brink, but ultimately bets on the beauty of both to prevail.

THE OFFICE BAR KICKS OFF A SUMMER OF SOCCER, SIPS, AND HOLIDAY SPECIALS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/15/26

The Midtown restaurant’s June lineup is packed with nonstop food and beverage specials, happy hour DJ sets and a block-wide soccer party 

Located in the lobby of 1105 West Peachtree in Midtown Atlanta, The Office Bar is preparing for an action-packed, sports-crazy month with nonstop activations and specials to keep the fun rolling. Between a passport-centered block party for the global soccer tournament, delicious cocktails for June holidays and two special appearances by Google engineer-turned-DJ, DJ Doollee, there is no end to the festivities at The Office Bar as the summer begins.

The Office Bar’s June lineup is outlined below:

Flavors of Spain/Stadium Midtown

From June 11–July 19, Stadium Midtown is the go-to match-day watch experience happening in the heart of Midtown. Inspired by the global spirit of the tournament, Stadium Midtown will transform 1105 West Peachtree into a block-wide celebration with team-inspired venues, match-day specials and a shared passport experience with three participating restaurants: The Office Bar, representing Spain; Emilio’s Tacos & Tequila, representing Mexico; and McCray’s Tavern, representing Morocco.

During the Stadium Midtown activation from June to July, The Office Bar will launch its “Flavors of Spain” menu to show off pride for Team Spain during the tournament. Menu items will include:

  • Tortilla Española ($16): golden potato, organic egg, red onion, piquillo, sweet and smoked paprika aioli and crispy jamón serrano.
  • Mushroom Gratin ($15): woodland mushroom, cream sauce, herbs, manchego cheese, crostini and crumbled citrus.
  • Spanish Chorizo & Potato Croquette ($14): hot sauce and garlic aioli.
  • Red Card Negroni ($18): Nolet’s Gin, Campari, Sweet Vermouth and orange peel.
  • El Capitan (White Negroni) ($18): Nolet’s Gin, Suze, Lillet Blanc and lemon twist.
  • Sangria de la Roja ($16): Red wine, orange juice, brandy and assorted fruit garnish.
  • White Wave Sangria ($16): White wine, Peach Schnapps, pineapple juice and mint garnish.

For more information, visit the event website.

Frequency Fridays

Friday, June 12 and Friday, June 26

Frequency Friday is officially in session! We’re turning up the energy every other Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. with rotating sounds by DJ Doollee. Expect themed cocktails, elevated bites and a soundtrack that keeps things moving from first pour to last call. See you on the frequency! For more information, visit the event page.

Juneteenth Cocktail Special

Friday, June 19

To celebrate Juneteenth, The Office Bar will offer its “Juneteenth Mule” ($16), with Uncle Nearest Bourbon, ginger beer, fresh lime juice and simple syrup, garnished with fresh blackberries, strawberries and mint leaves.

Father’s Day Specials

Sunday, June 21 

Treat Dad to a week of epic, mouth-watering eats at The Office Bar! From June 15–June 21, enjoy exclusive Father’s Day food specials, with each hearty meal perfectly paired with a draft beer in a complimentary The Office Bar souvenir cup. Specials include:

  • The Boss Burger ($20): Double smashed patty, roasted jalapeño aioli, cheddar cheese, caramelized onion, pickle and lettuce on a brioche bun, served with fries.
  • Cowboy Burger ($20): Double smashed patty, bourbon aioli, bacon jam, crispy onion, muenster cheese, cabbage and Texas BBQ on a brioche bun, served with fries.
  • Daddy’s Loaded Fries ($20): House chili, crispy bacon, pickled jalapeño and cheddar cheese.

Seating is first-come, first-served. For more information, visit the event page. 

Wimbledon Cocktail Special

Thursday, July 9–Sunday, July 12

For those stopping by to catch the semi-final and final matches during The Wimbledon Championships, The Office Bar is serving up its Honey Deuce ($14), featuring Ketel One Vodka, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, honey syrup and soda water. 

FATHER’S DAY ROUND UP 2026

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/13/26

Sun., June 21, 10am-9pm – Father’s Day at The Southern Gentleman at Buckhead Village

Guests are invited to The Southern Gentleman at Buckhead Village on Father’s Day starting at 10am for a three-course prix-fixe brunch menu, plus amuse, for $75 per adult, not including tax and gratuity. Enjoy standout dishes like Blue Crab Deviled Eggs, Southern Fried Chicken & Skillet Cake, Steak & Eggs and Low Country Lobster Rice. Kids menu will be available à la carte. For dinner, they’ll be serving our full dinner menu featuring signature favorites like Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Shrimp & Grits, Braised Short Rib “Pot Roast,” Creole Red Fish and a 12oz NY Strip. Reservations are available here.

Sun., June 21, noon-3pm – Father’s Day BBQ, Bourbon & Match Day Social at The Betty

Guests are invited to a laid-back Father’s Day gathering featuring barbecue favorites, a guided whiskey tasting with ASW Distillery and a live cigar rolling experience at Willow Bar at The Betty, located at the Kimpton Sylvan. They will also be showing the soccer games throughout the afternoon. Tickets are available HERE for $60 per person and includes: 

  • BBQ bites trio platter
  • Guided whiskey tasting with ASW Distillery
  • One hand-rolled cigar
  • One complimentary cocktail

Sun., June 21 – Father’s Day at Boone’s

Boone’s invites guests to celebrate Father’s Day with drink specials, a Surf & Turf dinner special – 6oz filet, seared scallops, herb potato hash with cipollini onions & bacon – and the chance to enter in a raffle to win a golf bag. See here to make a reservation.

Casa Nuova

Rather than the traditional brunch or steak dinner, Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant is inviting guests to celebrate Dad with an exclusive Father’s Day Bourbon Experience featuring award-winning Smokeye Hill Whiskey.

The evening will include a welcome cocktail, three curated bourbon pours, and chef-crafted light bites in a relaxed, elevated setting designed for fathers, sons, daughters, friends, and bourbon enthusiasts looking for a memorable way to celebrate.

Father’s Day Bourbon Experience
When: Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant, Alpharetta
Cost: $65 per person
Details: Welcome cocktail, three bourbon tastings, and light bites
Reservations: Limited seating; advance tickets required. Guests must be 21+.

The event offers a fun alternative to traditional Father’s Day celebrations while giving attendees an opportunity to learn more about one of the country’s emerging whiskey brands in an intimate setting.

Reservations can be made here:

Reserve Your Seat

THE AVENUE WEST COBB WELCOMES FAMILIES FOR SUMMER EVENTS FEATURING STORYTIME, FATHER’S DAY FUN AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

WHO:

Media are invited to attend family-friendly summer events at The Avenue West Cobb, featuring children’s programming, live entertainment, crafts, food and community engagement.

WHAT:

The Avenue West Cobb will host a full day of summer, community-driven programming on Saturday, June 20, highlighted by:

  • 100% Chiropractic Father’s Day Celebration
    Guests can celebrate Father’s Day with live music, games, kids’ crafts, grilled grass-fed burgers and franks, giveaways and opportunities to learn about the practice’s new Shockwave Therapy. Families are encouraged to come together for a day of food, fun and community.
  • Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Kickoff
    Families are invited to celebrate the start of summer reading with book-themed crafts, giveaways, scavenger hunts, free activities and information about seasonal reading programs.  A special character appearance may also be featured.

WHEN:

Saturday, June 20, 2026

  • 100% Chiropractic Father’s Day Celebration | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Kickoff | 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

WHERE:

The Avenue West Cobb

3625 Dallas Hwy 

Marietta, GA 30064

TBB 122

Father’s Day weekend, TBB 122 is offering a special bourbon-forward menu highlight available Saturday and Sunday, featuring a standout bourbon cured brisket sandwich alongside a curated lineup of craft cocktails designed for the occasion.

Father’s Day Feature Dish:

  • Bourbon Brisket Sandwich
    Bourbon brisket, house brioche, farm egg, local cabbage coleslaw

The sandwich leans into rich, elevated comfort food with a Southern bourbon influence—perfect for a Father’s Day weekend indulgence.

Specialty Bourbon Cocktail Lineup:

The Gentleman
A refined, aromatic take on a classic whiskey cocktail, The Gentleman blends Pinhook Rye Whiskey with Earl Grey simple syrup for subtle tea-infused depth. Fresh lime brightens the profile, while a touch of orange oil adds a fragrant citrus finish, creating a smooth yet layered sip with an elevated, elegant edge.

Big Honey
Rich, warm, and herbaceous, Big Honey combines Old Grand-Dad Bourbon with thyme liqueur for an earthy botanical backbone. Lime agave adds a balanced citrus sweetness, while honey rounds out the finish, resulting in a bold but smooth cocktail with just the right touch of Southern comfort.

Parallel Vehicle
Complex and citrus-forward, Parallel Vehicle features Old Grand-Dad Bourbon paired with Mommenpop orange liqueur for vibrant fruit brightness. Poli Camomila brings soft floral chamomile notes, while lime agave and demerara syrup layer in brightness and depth, creating a balanced, aromatic cocktail with a lingering, nuanced finish.

YEBO BEACH HAUS TRANSFORMS INTO YARROW HAUS FOR THE SUMMER

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/11/26

Official FIFA World Cup Photographer David Yarrow Brings Immersive Art and Dining Experience to Atlanta

As FIFA World Cup events kick off in Atlanta, Yebo Beach Haus is marking the moment and turning up the energy. This summer, the beloved Buckhead destination has transformed into Yarrow Haus, an immersive art and dining experience featuring the work of David Yarrow, the official photographer of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and one of the most collected contemporary photographers in the world.

Guests will dine among Yarrow’s bold, large-scale works – dramatic black-and-white imagery spanning wildlife, culture and cinematic narrative – each available for purchase. The exhibition transforms Yebo Beach Haus into a curated gallery where the art commands the room.

Complementing the visual experience, guests can explore Yarrow x Menagerie, a wine collection inspired by the untamed spirit of Yarrow’s lens, paired alongside Yebo Beach Haus’ signature New American Coastal Cuisine.

“Yarrow’s work stops you in your tracks, said Justin Anthony, Founder of True Story Brands. “As Atlanta welcomes the World Cup, we are proud to showcase the work of its official photographer in a setting that brings people together through food, wine and conversation.”

Yarrow’s photographs have been acquired by prominent collectors, celebrities and institutions across the globe, making Yarrow Haus a rare opportunity for Atlanta guests – and World Cup visitors – to experience his work up close over a meal.

Yarrow Haus is open throughout the summer at Yebo Beach Haus.

GEORGIA’S OWN HOSTING FREE SOCCER CLINIC FOR 300+ YOUTH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/11/26

With the first World Cup game in Atlanta on the horizon, Georgia’s Own Credit Union is partnering with Inter Atlanta FC to help the next generation of soccer stars pursue their dreams, hosting a FREE youth clinic for 300+ participants on Saturday, June 13 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in Historic Fourth Ward Park. 

During the event, Georgia’s Own will also donate 100 soccer balls to Inter Atlanta FC, supercharging its Gratis Play program for 200+ DeKalb County youth and extending the support for youth soccer well beyond the World Cup.

Georgia’s Own Donates 175+ Soccer Balls to Expand Youth Soccer Statewide

Credit union making impact in Atlanta, Albany, Augusta and Kingsland

Georgia’s Own Credit Union, the third-largest credit union in Georgia, is celebrating the arrival of the world’s premier sporting event by donating over 175 soccer balls to youth organizations across Georgia. With the goal of increasing access to the game, Georgia’s Own is delivering balls to organizations in each of the four markets it serves: Inter Atlanta FC, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Augusta, Camden County Soccer Club and Albany Area YMCA.

In partnership with the Fourth Ward Neighborhood Association (O4WNA) and Inter Atlanta FC, Georgia’s Own will also support the free O4W Youth Soccer Festival from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 13 at Historic Fourth Ward Park. The public event is expected to draw more than 300 youth participants for coaching sessions, drills, and mini-games to sharpen their skills. 

Families can register their children to participate at this link.

“With the eyes of the world on our state, we wanted to connect that energy back to our foundation’s core mission and create a lasting impact in our communities,” said Dave Preter, president and CEO of Georgia’s Own Credit Union. “There are going to be so many children inspired by watching the world’s best soccer players compete right here in our backyard, so our goal – pardon the pun – is to create more opportunities for them to play the game and dream big!”

Inter Atlanta FC is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to enriching every player’s soccer experience while enhancing the soccer culture throughout Atlanta. The 100 balls being donated by Georgia’s Own will support its Gratis Play program, which provides free soccer programming for children between ages 4 and 12 who may not have had prior access to the sport. This initiative reflects Georgia’s Own broader commitment to removing financial barriers and investing in the long-term well-being of the communities it serves. 

“Our Gratis Play program is central to our mission of introducing soccer to kids at a young age and removing any financial barriers standing in their way,” said Andy Skorupski, CEO of Inter Atlanta FC. “The soccer balls donated by Georgia’s Own are a true game-changer, as each location will now have a dedicated set of balls for the first time and allow us to maximize community engagement. We are incredibly thankful for the support and know the impact will be immeasurable.”

Full event details about the O4W Soccer Kickoff Festival can be found here. For more information on Georgia’s Own Credit Union, please visit georgiasown.org.