Tag Archive for: events in atlanta

SUMMERHILL DECEMBER EVENTS SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 12/9/23

Georgia Avenue Offers an Exciting Month Full of Specials, Giveaways and Holiday Fun

‘Tis the season to be jolly, and Summerhill has many things planned during December that bring the neighborhood together in a special way. From Halfway Crooks’ Boevenmarkt to Wood’s Chapel Winterfest, Summerhill captures what the holidays are all about: community.

  • Halfway Crooks invites guests to its Boevenmarkt every Friday through Sunday until Dec. 23. The Boevenmarkt is a holiday market featuring over 50 unique local artists, and shoppers also can enjoy food and various drinks such as beer and hot chocolate. There will be live music on Dec. 9 and 17 as well as movies on Friday evenings. A kid-focused day on Dec. 10 boasts cookie and ornament workshops along with a children’s holiday jam. The Boevenmarkt will take place in the Biergarten.
  • Junior’s Pizza’s pizza of the month for December is “Big Trouble in Little China” and is available in regular, vegetarian or vegan. This year’s special gives guests the option of sweet Thai chili or orange chicken instead of sesame chicken. Starting Wednesday, Dec. 13, the pizzeria will host Drag Bingo twice a month, on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. Drag Bingo runs 7- 9 p.m., is free to play and kid-friendly.
  • Little Bear is celebrating the season with two events. Sunday, Dec. 24 marks the return of Little Bear’s Jewish Chinese Christmas Eve. The event starts at 5 p.m. and features a four-course prix fixe menu and a holiday booze pack that includes a cocktail, two wine glasses and a nightcap. Tickets can be purchased online. On Sunday, Dec. 31, the restaurant hosts its Fancy Ass Baller Welcome to 2024 NYE Prix Fixe Bonanza. The event starts at 6 p.m. and includes a four-course prix fixe menu and holiday booze pack. Tickets can be purchased online.
  • Little Tart is now offering cookie boxes just in time for the holidays. These are available for pick-up and shipping leading up to Christmas. Cookie boxes can be pre-ordered online.
  • Press Shop has a full schedule of events in December:
  • Saturday, Dec. 9 from 8-10 p.m. – 2nd annual Champagne + Oysters with shucked oysters and a lineup of incredible Champagnes and sparkling wines
  • Wednesday, Dec. 13 from 7-9 p.m. – Book Club with “So Late in the Day” by Claire Keegan
  • Thursday, Dec. 14 from 6-8 p.m. – Glad & Young studio pop-up with customizable leather goods, custom calligraphy and free bubbles
  • Dec. 13-15 – Gift Wrapping
  • Story time every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m.
  • Golden Hour Tastings every Friday from 6-7 p.m. and Saturday from 4-7 p.m.
  • Wood’s Chapel BBQ’s courtyard will be decked out in holiday décor for Winterfest. The grand event will take place on Saturday, Dec. 16 from 6- 8 p.m. and will highlight an array of entertainment from the Maynard Jackson High School Choir and Glee Club to the Neighborhood Ballet. There also will be a gingerbread house decorating contest, an ugly sweater contest, a tree lighting ceremony and giveaways. The gingerbread house decorating contest entry fee is $20, and the entry form is online. The restaurant also is offering Christmas catering including whole smoked turkeys, maple-glazed ham, sides, desserts and more. Orders must be placed online by Dec. 15 for pickup on Saturday, Dec. 23. Wood’s Chapel BBQ gift cards are perfect for even the pickiest on Santa’s list. All $100 gift cards purchased by Jan. 1, 2024 receive a $20 bonus. 

LETTERS TO SANTA PARTY AT EVENTIDE BREWERY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 12/4/23

Hop into the holiday spirit with Eventide Brewing’s Letters to Santa Party on December 16 

Grant Park’s favorite neighborhood brewery will feature fun for the entire family

Jingle all the way to Eventide Brewing on Saturday, December 16, for an unforgettable holiday bash filled with festive fun, frothy brews and seasonal surprises. The event will include:

Gingerbread house building competition: Build, sip, win! 

  • Join the gingerbread house building competition for just $20. This sweet deal includes a gingerbread house kit and a beer to boost your creativity. Prizes await the three best creations. 
  • Extra icing, gumdrops or decorations? Feel free to bring your own supplies to add that personal twist to your gingerbread masterpiece.

Letters to Santa: North Pole express mail 

  • A letter-writing station will be set up in the brewery for your little elves to pen their wishes to Santa. 

Ho-ho-photo ops: Santa’s special appearance

  • Have your family photos taken with the jolly old guy. A donation of $5 is requested to take your photo with Santa. All proceeds from pictures will be donated to Blessing Bags of Warmth to spread the joy beyond brewery walls.

Holiday gift market: Shop local, gift joy

  • Explore the holiday market with a sleigh-full of local vendors. Find the perfect, including artisan jewelry, foods, soaps, home goods, crafts and more.

Exclusive brews: A taste of holiday cheer

  • Back by popular demand, the brewery will release its Candy Cane Kattegat, a baltic porter swirled with peppermint.
  • Blitzen, the brewery’s limited-release White IPA, is making its final festive flight. Get it before it’s gone forever. 

Jingle Bell Rock: Live music to lift your spirits

  • Enjoy live performances of your favorite holiday tunes. The perfect soundtrack to sip your Candy Cane Kattegat to or while perusing the gift market. 

Cuban Christmas feast

  • Don Fausto’s  will present a traditional Cuban Christmas menu, including ropa vieja and roasted mojo pork.

For more information about the event, please visit: eventidebrewing.com/upcoming-events.

SLEIGH THE SEASON AT THE BATTERY ATLANTA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 12/4/23

Sleigh the Season at The Battery Atlanta with Live Music, Festive Gatherings and More
Atlanta’s top outdoor destination embraces the holidays with annual activities galore

More information here on all below.

The Battery Atlanta families are encouraged to partake in festive celebrations all month long. From jazz band performances to photos with Santa, there is a little something for everyone at Cobb County’s holiday headquarters. The Coca-Cola Roxy maintains a schedule of entertaining shows throughout the month. As the season comes to a close, The Battery Atlanta will once again host two fan favorite New Year’s Eve bashes, ringing in 2024 in style.

Santa’s Post Office Together with Truist
Through Dec. 24
Santa Claus is once again setting up shop at his Post Office in The Battery Atlanta! Until Dec. 24, Santa will continue the time-honored tradition of greeting local children. Santa will set up shop every Friday through Sunday in the Truist Community Corner, located at the corner of Power Alley and Battery Avenue. Families are invited to bring their handwritten letters to Santa – postage not required – in person at his official Atlanta outpost. Santa’s helpers will take care of the rest! Truist will have additional activities, photo ops and giveaways for the whole family, celebrating the holidays and the local community. Full schedule and information can be found here.

Santa Paws Together with Truist
Thursday Dec. 7 and 14 from 4 – 8 p.m.
Paw-rents can bring their furry friends for a special free photo opportunity with Santa Claus. More information can be found here.

Allatoona Jazz Band Holiday Performances
Friday, Dec. 1 at 6 p.m., Friday, Dec. 8 at 5 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. and Friday, Dec. 15 at 6 p.m.
The Allatoona High School Jazz Band will spread holiday cheer throughout the season. Visitors can enjoy holiday classics during the hour-long live performances which take place at the Georgia Power Pavilion Stage, courtesy of Holidays at The Battery Atlanta presented by Wellstar. Find more information here.

New Year’s Eve Bash Presented by Xfinity
Sunday, Dec. 31 at 6 p.m.
Ring in the new year in style at The Battery Atlanta’s New Year’s Eve Bash presented by Xfinity. Families can enjoy the Early Innings countdown at 6 p.m. in the Plaza, which includes a special performance by four-time GRAMMY nominee Brady Rymer on the Georgia Power Pavilion Stage, and culminates with an inflatable baseball drop at 8 p.m. For adult revelers, the Late Innings will begin at 9 p.m., featuring a special performance by 12 South Band on the Georgia Power Pavilion Stage. Kick off the New Year with spectacular aerial fireworks display and pyrotechnics. Find more information here.

Select Tenant Events:

Baseballism Toy Drive
Through Dec. 20
Benefitting Atlanta Toys for Tots, guests can bring a new, unopened toy to Baseballism and receive a 30 percent discount on an entire order that day. In addition to the discount, they will receive a free Baseballism Holiday Toy Drive sticker; exclusive to those who donate toys.

Tinsel Tavern at Live! at The Battery Atlanta
Through Dec. 23 (click here for closed dates due to private events)
Live! at The Battery Atlanta invites guests to experience an over-the-top holiday experience unlike any other. Now through Dec. 23, The Tavern transforms into Tinsel Tavern, a holiday pop-up bar featuring an explosion of twinkling lights, specialty holiday cocktails, Instagrammable photo moments and more. In addition to this new festive flair, the Tavern will be hosting themed nights for some extra holiday excitement.

Holiday Cocktail Class at ASW Distillery
Sunday, Dec. 3 and 10 from 4 – 5:30 p.m.
ASW is kicking off the holiday season with a hands-on holiday cocktail-making class. For just $50 per person, patrons will be provided with a festive charcuterie board and enjoy three craft cocktails. The class will cover the basics of bartending and the art of building a cocktail – everything needed to impress during the holiday season! More information can be found here.

NFC Fight Night at Live! at The Battery Atlanta
Friday, Dec. 8 from 7 – 11:30 p.m.
Join Live! At The Battery Atlanta for another thrilling National Fighting Championship (NFC) event! This exciting night promises a lineup of over a dozen professional and amateur MMA and Muay Thai battles in the NFC cage. The evening includes one of the most exciting and new environments in watching live fights as it has over 40+ televisions and a 32-foot LED screen. Find more information here.

Twilight Tours at Truist Park
Wednesday, Dec. 13 from 5 – 7 p.m.
Beer lovers are asked to join Terrapin for a night of beer tasting and a twilight tour of one of the newest parks in baseball. Tours begin at Terrapin where guests will learn about Atlanta’s favorite beer before heading over to Truist Park to explore the press box, Monument Garden, the dugout and more. Tickets can be reserved here.

NYE Live! at The Battery Atlanta
Saturday, Dec. 31 at 8 p.m.
Visitors are welcomed to kick off the new year with a Hollywood Nights Themed NYE party. Ticket packages include live music, exclusive access to two sports bars, photo opportunities and a midnight champagne toast that spotlights the Times Square Ball Drop on a 32-ft LED Screen. Guests can bask in the ambiance with roaming entertainers, exclusive VIP packages with access to private bars, served food stations and so much more. Get tickets here.

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.

⦁ CHUU at Coca-Cola Roxy
Friday, Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m.
⦁ Yacht Rock Revue – Yacht Rock Holiday Special
Saturday, Dec. 16 at 8 p.m.
⦁ Marlon Wayans
Sunday, Dec. 31 at 7 p.m.

Special Holiday Movie Showings at Silverspot Cinema
Silverspot Cinema is showing fan favorite holiday movies throughout the month.
⦁ Elf
Sunday, Dec. 3 and Wednesday, Dec. 6
⦁ Love Actually
Friday, Dec. 8
⦁ National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Sunday, Dec. 10 and Wednesday, Dec. 13
⦁ It’s a Wonderful Life
Sunday, Dec. 17; Wednesday, Dec. 20; Sunday, Dec. 24

An up-to-date list of restaurant and retailer happenings is available on the website. Details and hours of operation are subject to change.

DISNEY’S ALADDIN AT THE FOX THEATRE, JANUARY 9-14

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 12/3/23

Tickets for Disney’s Aladdin On Sale

at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta on Oct. 27 

Performances from Jan. 9-14, 2024 at the Fox Theatre                                 

Disney Theatrical Productions, under the direction of Andrew Flatt, Anne Quart and Thomas Schumacher, and Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta announced today that tickets for the long-awaited engagement of Disney’s Aladdin will go on sale to the public on Oct. 27. Performances of the hit Broadway musical comedy will run from Jan. 9-14, 2024 at the Fox Theatre.

In Atlanta, Aladdin will play Tuesday through Thursday at 7:30p.m., Friday at 8:00p.m., Saturday at 2:00p.m. and 8:00p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m. Beginning Oct. 27, tickets will be available at the Fox Theatre Box Office at 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308 and online at foxtheatre.org/aladdin. Orders for groups of 10 or more may be placed by contacting sales@foxtheatre.org.

Ticket buyers are reminded that the Fox Theatre is the only official retail ticket outlet for all performances at the Fox Theatre. Ticket buyers who purchase tickets from a ticket broker or any third party should be aware that the Fox Theatre is unable to reprint or replace lost or stolen tickets and is unable to contact patrons with information regarding time changes or other pertinent updates regarding the performance. 

Aladdin will play for a limited engagement in Atlanta from Jan. 9 – 14, 2024. The performance schedule is: 

Tuesday – Thursday                                     7:30 p.m.

Friday                                                             8 p.m.

Saturday                                                         2 p.m., 8 p.m.

Sunday                                                       1 p.m.

About Aladdin

Aladdin, the hit musical based on the Academy Award®-winning animated film, opened on Broadway at the New Amsterdam Theatre to critical acclaim on March 20, 2014 and quickly established itself as one of the biggest new blockbusters in recent years. Having played over 3,000 performances, the New York production is among the Top 20 longest runs in Broadway history. 

Hailed by The New York Times as “fabulous and extravagant,” the Broadway production has broken 16 New Amsterdam Theatre house records and spawned nine additional productions on four continents. Worldwide it has welcomed more than 16 million people and can be seen currently on Broadway and on tour across North America, as well as in Japan and Spain, with a UK tour opening shortly. 

Produced by Disney Theatrical Productions, Aladdin features music by Tony Award and eight-time Oscar® winner Alan Menken (Beauty and the Beast, Newsies, Sister Act), lyrics by two-time Oscar winner Howard Ashman (Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid), three-time Tony Award and three-time Oscar winner Tim Rice (Evita, Aida) and six-time Tony Award nominee Chad Beguelin (The Prom, The Wedding Singer), with a book by Beguelin, and is directed and choreographed by two-time Tony Award winner Casey Nicholaw (The Book of Mormon). 

Aladdin, adapted from the animated Disney film and centuries-old folktales including “One Thousand and One Nights,” is brought to fresh theatrical life in this bold new musical. Aladdin’s journey sweeps audiences into an exciting world of daring adventure, classic comedy and timeless romance.  This new production features a full score, including the five cherished songs from the Academy Award-winning soundtrack and more written especially for the stage.

The animated film Aladdin was released by Disney in 1992 and was a critical and box office smash, becoming the highest-grossing film of the year. The film won the Oscar for Best Original Score and introduced the hit song “A Whole New World,” which won the second of the film’s two Academy Awards as Best Original Song.  The Peabo Bryson/Regina Belle recording of the tune soared to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Aladdin is designed by seven-time Tony-winning scenic designer Bob Crowley, eight-time Tony-winning lighting designer Natasha Katz, three-time Tony-winning costume designer Gregg Barnes and sound designer Ken Travis.

The production team also includes illusion designers Jim Steinmeyer and Rob Lake, hair designer Josh Marquette and makeup designer Milagros Medina-Cerdeira.  The music team is headed by music supervisor and music director Michael Kosarin, who also created the vocal and incidental music arrangements, joined by orchestrator Danny Troob and dance music arranger Glen Kelly. John MacInnis is the associate choreographer, Jason Trubitt is the production supervisor and Myriah Bash is the general manager. Anne Quart serves as executive producer.

The current North American tour has played in over 40 cities to more than a half million people since launching in October 2022. A previous tour played to an additional nearly 3 million patrons.

For more information, visit AladdinTheMusical.com/tour, Instagram and Facebook

UNWRAP THE MAGIC OF THE SEASON AT UNDERGROUND ATLANTA’S PREMIER POP-UP HOLIDAY BAR

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/29/23

Get ready for a festive celebration as the ultimate pop-up holiday bar, opens its doors in Underground Atlanta on December 1st. This is the only place in the city where you can see three Christmas experiences at once—ideal for a fun date night, corporate party or group outings complete with non-stop holiday fun.

Mrs. Claus: A Holiday Bar

This winter wonderland promises an enchanting experience with 17 fully decorated Christmas trees, a full-sized sleigh for capturing the perfect holiday photo with your bestie, and a fully immersive Winter Wonderland walkthrough featuring icicles, snow, and lights. The centerpiece of Mrs. Claus is the stunning all-black monochromatic tree, framed perfectly with a hanging four-foot fully illuminated star that immediately captures the eye. The ceiling is a work of art, made to look like a multicolored bow with fabric draped down to each section, creating a mesmerizing visual experience. 

North Hole Mini Golf

For a unique twist on the holiday, check out North Hole: a hole in one mini golf. Say goodbye to the endless waits, as each hole is par one. Enjoy this marvelous Christmas-themed experience with candy canes, polar bears, and reindeer. 

Big XMAS: A Really Big Christmas

Step into the larger-than-life celebration at Big XMAS, your super-sized Christmas dance party. Marvel at hanging ornaments, giant inflatables and a towering 20-foot Christmas tree. Climb into the 10-foot-tall Santa Chair that seats three and spin while enjoying the in-house snow machine that will make you feel like a toy come to life. 

This holiday pop-up offers a curated drink menu with specialty drinks, including a Rumchata Iced Coffee and Mistletoe Martini. Sip on your cocktails served by a team of bartenders dressed in sexy Santa outfits, adding a slightly naughty take on Christmas. With its captivating decorations and festive atmosphere, Mrs. Claus is set to become the most Instagram-friendly Christmas bar in Atlanta.

Indulge in holiday cheer, purchase tickets to each section individually or opt for a group ticket for the ultimate Christmas adventure. With DJs, parties, and special events, this holiday pop up experience keeps the festivities going all night long. 

Event Details

  • Location: 50 Upper Alabama Street, Atlanta, GA 30303
  • Pricing ranges from $10 – $35.
  • Operating hours are Friday to Sunday, 8 PM – Late.
  • Corporate parties, special events, and group outings are welcomed—contact us via by email to plan your unforgettable celebration.

For updates, ticket information, and more details, please visit Eventbrite or follow on social media:

THE ENCHANTED SLAY RIDE IN UNDERGROUND ATLANTA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/28/23

Witchcraft, Yule Celebrations and Art Emerge at Mystic District Marketplace: The Enchanted Slay Ride in Underground Atlanta

Kick-off the holiday season with a dark, underground artistic experience featuring witchy vendors, immersive art and live performances.

Mystic District Marketplace invites you to an unforgettable evening of mischief, as The Enchanted Slay Ride takes over MOM SAID ITS FINE in Underground Atlanta on December 1st. Frankie &  Marley Productions and cfcm | design present an immersive experience that’s more than just a ride – it’s a journey into a world of Yule magic, live performances featuring an all queer cast, and occult vendors. 

Embrace the darker side of the holidays and capture memories with Krampus, the mythical creature of folklore. Attendees will have the opportunity to take photos with this legendary figure, adding a touch of mystique to their holiday photo albums.

Watch the drag and burlesque show hosted by JayBella Bank$, with a live musical performance by Coruja and then “Get Slayed” at the dance party featuring local Atlanta DJs, Necromanny and Abby Dear. 

Mystic District Marketplace is the perfect opportunity to find unique gifts for the magical beings in your life. Explore unique vendors like aura photographers, palm readers and taxidermy artists and get playful with holiday themed art installations throughout the market. 

“Mystic District Marketplace is where multiple facets of art merge for a one-of-a-kind, accessible and community based night of underground entertainment. Our vendors and performers are specially selected to fit the vibe of the show and theme. We are thrilled to be back at Underground Atlanta for our seventh edition of this production.” – said Liz Peña, Producer of Mystic District Marketplace. 

Experienced event producers Liz Peña, an artist curator, designer and marketer, along with Chrissy Culver, the fabricator and designer who brought Red Bull Unlocked to life, will each share their unique talents to create a witchy and enchanted event posed to kick-off a hauntingly magical holiday season. 

“I’ve designed the Krampus costume to custom fit the vibe of the market. So expect touches of the most popularly known mystical and terrifying Krampus mixed with Tim Curry’s character,  Dr. Frank-N-Furter, from The Rocky Horror Picture Show. My aim is to capture the essence of the traditional Yule holiday mixed with the queer and feminine culture of Mystic District.” – said Chrissy Culver, owner of cfcm | design.

In addition, ticket holders can sip on non-alcoholic concoctions from the elixir bar featuring holiday drinks, engage with pop-up performances and have a chance to win a raffle with prizes from local businesses. A portion of the raffle proceeds will be donated directly to Sol Underground, a Black-led anti-fascist and anti-capitalist ecosystem fighting for Black & Indigenous liberation.

The market opens at 8:00 pm and the show starts at 10:00 pm. Purchase entry tickets to the show on Universe for $15 ahead of the show and $20 at the door. Photo packages for Krampus, which includes a handmade ornament and free drink from the elixir bar, start at $12. 

NETHERWORLD REOPENS THIS HOLIDAY FOR A ONE-DAY-ONLY LIGHTS ON TOUR

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/22/23

America’s Favorite Haunted Attraction to Give
Exclusive Lights On + Effects Off Experience Saturday, Dec. 9

 
 NETHERWORLD Haunted House is back just in time for the holiday season! For fans of fear and fright, the #1 haunt in America, NETHERWORLD, will reopen on Saturday, Dec. 9 for one day only to host VIP Lights On Tours. Throughout the day, experienced guides will take guests behind the curtains and into the haunts for an intimate look at the animatronics, creatures, and high-tech features that make NETHERWORLD one of the nation’s most visited haunted attractions each year.
 
“Our Lights On Tours are very popular for die-hard fans,” said Ben Armstrong, NETHERWORLD Haunted House Co-Creator. “It’s the one opportunity each year for haunt fanatics to truly get an inside look at what it takes to put on one of the world’s best-haunted attractions. Truly a can’t-miss event that’s fun for the whole family, especially around the holiday season.”
 
Tour-goers will get to see every detail, big and small, within both of NETHERWORLD’s 2023 haunts PRIMORDIAL and CRYPTID CHAOS; an experience that true haunted house fanatics will love. With the lights on and effects off, guests in very small groups will be led by a knowledgeable guide who will fully explore the storylines, operations, and history behind the attractions including discussions of movie sets, props from other classic haunts, and more. The event will also feature photo opportunities at select predetermined locations inside the haunts, and each person will receive a free souvenir printed photo to remember the occasion, as well as access to NETHERWORLD’s House of Creeps Monster Museum.
 
Just in time for the holidays, Lights On Tour tickets are the perfect early experiential gift for the Halloween enthusiast or NETHERWORLD superfan in your life. Tickets are on sale for $125 per person. Tour groups will contain a maximum of 6 people, and tours will be offered from 12-5 p.m. To check availability and purchase tickets, click here. It is highly encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance as this event has an extremely limited capacity and will sell out.
 
While NETHERWORLD’s haunted houses are officially closed for the 2023 season, the fun lasts year-round at House of Creeps Monster Museum and Escape the NETHERWORLD, which now offers five thrilling escape rooms, including the recently opened Alien Terror: Doom of the Dark Horizon.

WESTSIDE MOTOR LOUNGE IS NOW ATL, YULE!, NOVEMBER 25 – DECEMBER 31

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/20/23

Atlanta’s Only Indoor / Outdoor Immersive Holiday Pop-Up Experience Will Feature Special DJ Performances, Holiday Cocktail Menu, Disco Santa, Karaoke, Silent Discos, Holiday Market, Fire Pits and S’mores, Car Show, and More

Westside Motor Lounge’s West Bar Available for Private Parties


 Get ready to put some head nod in your egg nog as the Westside Motor Lounge, ATL’s newest indoor/outdoor food, beverage, and entertainment experience, transforms into a winter wonderland with its immersive holiday pop-up experience- ATL, Yule! Starting Thanksgiving weekend, November 25th through New Year’s Eve, Saturday, December 31st, guests will feel like they’ve entered the North Pole South with plentiful fire pits with blankets and hand warmers to gather around, a holiday cocktail menu featuring drinks such as Frostines Dream, Grandma’s Christmas Clutch, Gumdrop Buttons, the Clausmopolitan, Big Nick Energy, and Squashed Elf, special DJ performances, holiday-themed karaoke, silent discos, a holiday market series featuring everything from plants to vinyl (umm…drink and take care of your shopping list- YES, PLEASE), pictures with Disco Santa, a car show, and more.  

“Enough of the cookies and milk nonsense. This is a time to throw down around the fire pit and get weird,” says Kris Kringle, Head of Sugar Plum Fairy Union 1225. “I could not be happier with the job my elves have been doing over the last several months and will be making a stop for pictures and a cocktail or two.”

The holidays can be stressful as it is, so ATL, Yule! has taken the liberty of planning some Holiday Hijinx for you to enjoy with the family or to escape from them. Featured events will include:

-Kick the week off with some pitch-perfect Holiday Karaoke each Wednesday in partnership with Ilegal Mezcal.

-Shake your holiday booty on ATL, Yule’s DJ Thursdays featuring some of Atlanta’s best plate spinners inside the main bar and out on the expansive courtyard.

-Sunday Funday with Bacardi, cranking the silent disco, mixing up hot toddies, DJs, and more.

-12/02: SEC Championship Brunch + Tailgate. When you’re located down the street from Mercedes-Benz Stadium, you kick it up a notch with live music, DJs, a brass band, and a second line to the stadium—presented by Creature Comforts, the official beer of UGA Athletics. 

-12/09: Wahine’s Hideaway is throwing a Holiday Luau during the day, pairing up disco with some special tasty treats.

-12/09: Captains of Revelry will bring their high energy experience to help kick things up a notch.

-12/16: Reindeer, Rims, and Rides- an ATL, Yule! car show benefiting Toys for Tots. Bring a toy and pose for a picture next to a vehicle that will not be in your driveway with a big bow on Christmas morning.

-12/30:  Shakedown Street Rock N Roll Vendor Market. Pop in for some kickin’ wares before the Widespread Panic NYE concert run.

“There will not be a place in town like this, and we are excited to showcase the uniqueness of Westside Motor Lounge throughout the holidays and long into the new year,” says Kelly Campbell, Head Elf and co-owner of Westside Motor Lounge. “From the stage in our expansive outdoor courtyard to the eclectic indoor settings and beer garden, our guests are in for a treat.”

Westside Motor Lounge’s West bar is available for private party bookings. The space, which can accommodate parties of 30 to 60, provides an exclusive feel while still being a part of the overall festivities. Carrying a funky cocktail bar vibe comes with a dedicated bartender, tunes, and TVs, with both indoor and outdoor space. Parties interested in booking this free space (reasonable minimums required) can email events@westsidemotorlounge.com for details. Larger parties can be accommodated upon request.

These not-so-silent nights, and every night of ATL, Yule!, will be happening Wednesday through Sunday, November 25 to December 31, from 5 p.m. to close. More nights will soon be announced on the Westside Motor Lounge site and their Instagram @Westside_Motor_Lounge. Westside Motor Lounge is located 725 Echo St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318.  

ATLANTA MUSHROOM FESTIVAL BRINGS ITS FINAL SHOW OF THE YEAR TO WILD HEAVEN BREWERY AND GARDENS, NOVEMBER 25TH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/17/23

The Family-Friendly Event Will Feature Over 30 Vendors, including Mushroom Cultivators, Handmade Goods, Pet Products, Health and Wellness Products, Supplements, and More

Guest Speakers and Live Music to Provide Daylong Entertainment

Atlanta Mushroom Festival, a quarterly event rooted in community education and awareness about all things fungi, returns for its final event of the year on November 25, 2023. The one-day, family-friendly will take place at Wild Heaven West End from 12 to 7 p.m. and feature over 30 vendors, businesses, presenters, and live music- to foster a diverse and equitable community where people can discover ways to enrich their lives through the power of mushrooms.

“We thrive on the community we continue to build with each Atlanta Mushroom Festival. Everyone from the vendors to the presenters, sponsors, and volunteers have our gratitude as this will be another memorable event,” commented Atlanta Mushroom Festival co-founders David Claassen and Paul Grzybowski. “As a non-profit festival, we rely on this community to help nurture the education and inclusiveness of the fungi kingdom.”

The daylong event will feature a collective of local live music performers and speakers focused on educating and engaging attendees. Live music goes from 1 – 7 p.m. with Dusty Roads, Summerlyn Powers, Lightnin Ray, Holy Scares, Paul McDonald, and Gringo Star. Educational presenters include Matthew “Mateo” Rader of Toadstool Traditions, Sam Landes with Mushroom Club of Georgia, Mira Joleigh and Alex Himes with Entheo Temple, The Hortil-Culture Crew, Cesar Marin with Cultivating Wisdom, and Paul Grzybowski with ENCAPSULATE. You can find a complete list of presenter topics HERE.  

Atlanta Mushroom Festival is free to attend and welcomes all ages and their furry friends. Food will be available for purchase from El Tesoro West End and Wild Heaven has a wide variety of its beers, cider, wine, and non-alcohol options for purchase. Wild Heaven West End is at 1010 White Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30310.

For more information on Atlanta Mushroom Festival, visit www.AtlantaMushroomFestival.com.

EXPERIENCE JOYFUL ANNUAL HOLIDAY EVENTS FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES AT HALCYON

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/17/23

he mixed-use village invites the community to experience the magic of the holidays this season 

 Mark your calendars to spread some cheer and create lasting memories at Halcyon’s beloved holiday events. Bundle up for the ultimate après ski experience at HOBNOB’s Ski Chalet Pop-Up Bar or immerse yourself in the whimsical holiday decor at Cherry Street Brewpub’s Brewville Pop-Up Bar. Beloved annual events return, including Halcyon Holiday Magic, Brunch and Brews with Santa at Cherry Street Brewpub, Santa Paws, Chanukah Menorah lighting and Ugly Christmas Sweater Bar Crawl. The Forsyth County destination is the perfect go-to spot for friends and families to start new holiday traditions together. 

The full holiday events schedule is outlined below:

HOBNOB Ski Chalet Pop-Up Bar

Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m. – close, Fridays from 11:30 a.m. to close and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. – close

HOBNOB at Halcyon is transforming the High-Up Bar on the second floor to a winter getaway! Escape to the comfort of a ski chalet pop-up bar to try some of the best après-ski fare east of the Rockies and new seasonal cocktails such as peppermint martinis, RumChata hot cocoa, Bulleit bourbon hot toddies plus delicious seasonal fare. Enjoy live entertainment every Friday and Saturday. For more information, visit the event page. 

Halcyon Holiday Shopping Event

Thursday, November 16 from 6 – 9 p.m.

Gather your crew for a holiday shopping spree at Halcyon! All of the boutiques along Town Square will be offering specials, including storewide discounts, gifts with purchase, holiday refreshments and more. Shoppers will receive complimentary premium gift wrapping at all Halcyon boutiques with purchase, and a beautiful, personalized ornament from Letters with Lanta with any boutique purchase of $50 or more. Enjoy the cheerful holiday spirit with Christmas carolers along Town Square, treat yourself with a Botox appointment at Willow Jane from 5 to 9 p.m., or stop by the to-go window at Never Enough Thyme to purchase a delicious holiday cocktail in an exclusive Halcyon for the Holidays cup. Wrap up your shopping extravaganza and celebrate the deals you scored with holiday-themed drinks at HOBNOB’s Ski Chalet Pop-Up Bar. For more information, visit the Halcyon Facebook event page.

8th Annual Thanksgiving Gobble Wobble 5K, 10K, and 1K Fun Run

Thursday, November 23 at 7:45 a.m.

Join Halcyon for the Thanksgiving Gobble Wobble race before your Thanksgiving feast! Runners can register online or in-person for the 5K, 10K race or the 1K Fun Run, which is reserved for kids ages 10 and under. In-person registration will be available at Big Peach Running Co. in Cumming until Wednesday, November 22 and on-site registration starting at 7 a.m. on race day if not sold out. All participants will receive a lightweight hoodie and a custom medal. Kids Fun Run participants will receive a lightweight hoodie and a custom Fun Run medal. For more information or to register, visit the Halcyon Facebook event page. 

Thanksgiving at Ocean & Acre

Thursday, November 23 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Gather around the table with your family and friends this Thanksgiving at Ocean & Acre! The restaurant will be serving a delightful four-course prix-fixe menu of elevated Thanksgiving favorites for $68 per adult and $28 per child. Reservations are strongly encouraged. For more information or to book reservations, visit the Halcyon Facebook event page. 

Thanksgiving at Cattle Shed Wine & Steak Bar

Thursday, November 23 from 11 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Take it easy this Thanksgiving holiday and let Cattle Shed Wine & Steak Bar handle the cooking! Gather around the table for a delicious four-course prix-fixe menu of Thanksgiving favorites and wine pairings for $95 per adult and $19.95 per child. Reservations are strongly encouraged. For more information or to book reservations, visit Cattle Shed Wine & Steak Bar Facebook page.

Santa Visits Tutu School

Saturday, November 25 from 4 – 6 p.m.

Join Tutu School to celebrate the beginning of the holiday season with Santa and the cast from the Nutcracker! Ticket purchase includes a holiday craft, treats from the Land of Sweets, meet and greet with Metropolitan Ballet Theater’s Nutcracker cast, and a photo opportunity with jolly man, Santa Claus! This event will be held in 30 minute increments, starting at 4 to 4:30 p.m., 4:30 to 5 p.m., 5 to 5:30 p.m., and 5:30 to 6 p.m. All children must have a parent or caregiver present during the event. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Halcyon Facebook event page.

Brewville Christmas Pop-Up Bar at Cherry Street Brewpub

Monday, November 27 through Saturday, December 30

The annual Brewville Christmas Pop-Up Bar at Cherry Street Brewpub returns this year, promising a delightful blend of holiday cheer and the creation of lasting memories among friends! Cherry Street will be transformed into a festive wonderland, adorned with the most enchanting decorations. Guests can indulge in a variety of delicious holiday-inspired cocktails, ensuring a merry and spirited celebration of the season. For more information, visit the Cherry Street Brewpub event page.

Halcyon Holiday Magic

Saturday, December 2 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Experience the wonder of the holiday season at Halcyon Holiday Magic – with special guests, Santa Claus, the Grinch, Minnie and Mickey Mouse and Anna and Elsa from Frozen. All characters will be available for photo opportunities, appointments are not required. Everyone can enjoy cheerful holiday activities, including free face painting, caricature artists, ornament making, balloon animals and more! Emceed by Galaxy Music & Arts, the event will feature live entertainment from talented teen dancers and singers in the community. Stop by the interactive teddy bear tent sponsored by Northside Hospital where the little ones can take home their own teddy bear. Help stuff the fire truck full of new, unwrapped toys to help children in the community have a wonderful Christmas. In order to make Halcyon Holiday Magic run smoothly and minimize lines, the event will be ticketed this year and all proceeds will be donated to Family Promise of Forsyth County. Tickets must be purchased in advance and select the 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. entry time. No walk-up tickets will be available. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Halcyon Facebook event page.

Brunch & Brews with Santa at Cherry Street Brewpub

Saturday, December 9 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Save the date for the fifth annual Brunch & Brews with Santa at Cherry Street Brewpub! Enjoy a delicious brunch with family and friends, snap memorable pictures with Santa, find out if you’re on the naughty list or nice list and tell him what’s on your wish list this year. Reservations are encouraged and walk-ins will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis. For more information, visit the Halcyon Facebook event page.

Santa Paws benefitting FurKids

Sunday, December 10 from noon – 4 p.m.

Spend your Sunday at Halcyon supporting Georgia’s largest no-kill animal shelter and rescue, FurKids. Bring the family, and of course your dogs, to take professional photos with Santa and visit Halcyon’s dog-friendly retailers, including Unexpected Pooch, and restaurant patios such as Cherry Street Brewpub, Butcher & Brew, Eclipse di Luna, HOBNOB, Never Enough Thyme, Ocean & Acre and Cattle Shed. The $25 registration fee includes hi-res download of your professional photos with Santa, make-your-own paw print ornament from Dogtopia, a puppicino, and a special Halcyon dog gift. All ticket proceeds will be donated to FurKids. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Halcyon Facebook event page.

Chanukah at Halcyon

Sunday, December 10 from 5 – 7 p.m.

Halcyon invites the community to gather and celebrate Chanukah. Meet in the Village Green for the lighting of the Menorah, gelt (chocolate coins), delicious latkes, games, exciting giveaways and music. This annual event is being held in collaboration with Chabad of Forsyth and Congregation Beth Israel. For more information, visit the Halcyon Facebook event page. 

Ugly Christmas Sweater Bar Crawl

Thursday, December 14 from 6 – 10 p.m.

Grab your crew and join Halcyon for the fifth annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Bar Crawl, featuring a special guest, the Grinch! Put on your tackiest Christmas sweater, enjoy delicious holiday cocktails from bars and restaurants throughout the property. Take photos with the Grinch, and stick around for your chance to win gift cards to select Halcyon restaurants when the Grinch announces the three winners wearing the ugliest Christmas sweaters! All ticket proceeds will be donated to The Place of Forsyth. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Halcyon Facebook event page.

Halcyon Kids Club with Santa

Wednesday, December 20 from 10 a.m. – noon

Bring the kiddos for a morning spent with the jolly man himself, Santa Claus! The little ones can enjoy crafts, free face painting, treat bags courtesy of Renasant Bank, and a special moment with Santa for photos and to share their wishlist. This event is free and open to the community. For more information, visit the Halcyon Facebook event page.