events in atlanta Archives | Page 33 of 207

Tag Archive for: events in atlanta

AUTHORS, COMIC CREATORS, SCIENTISTS, AND MAGICIANS IGNITE CREATIVITY AND FUEL FANDOM AT DRAGON CON

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/25/25

Dragon Con, Atlanta’s internationally known pop culture, fantasy, sci-fi, and gaming convention, is a hub for creators, experts, and thought leaders from a wide range of fields who help fans explore their interests.

While the convention’s celebrity guests get immediate notice, only about a quarter of Dragon Con’s roster of guests come from television and movies. The majority of convention guests are storytellers, artists, scientists, and other experts in fields like science, space exploration, digital rights, and more.

“Our authors, comic creators, and experts don’t just help fans understand the world — they make sure no one leaves without having their minds at least slightly blown,” convention co-chair Rachel Reeves said. “Whether they’re diving into speculative fiction or tackling real-world topics like science, space, civil rights, or skepticism, we bring in sharp minds who can break down big ideas and make it fun.”

Dragon Con’s 2025 convention runs from Thursday, Aug. 28 to Monday, Sept. 1 with events and activities across five host hotels – Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Marriott Marquis, Hilton Atlanta, Westin Peachtree, and Courtland Grand Hotel – and AmericasMart Buildings #2 and #3.

Reporters from any outlet approved to cover Dragon Con are invited to seek interviews with artists, authors, and other creators and experts who are attending the convention – not just those listed below, but any guest or attending professional. For more information, please contact interviews@dragoncon.org.

Guests have the final say on whether to do an interview. They may be limited by schedule, contractual obligations, or other reasons.

Authors

Dragon Con’s roster of science fiction and fantasy authors includes master storytellers whose characters and worlds have transported readers across galaxies, into magical realms, and onto The New York Times Best Sellers list — while racking up awards along the way. Timothy Zahn, author of more than 40 novels including the iconic Thrawn Star Wars series, returns this year. Jim Butcher, best known for The Dresden Files, brings not only his bestselling books but also his outspoken advocacy for mental health awareness. Jack Campbell, the pen name of retired Navy officer John G. Hemry, is a fan favorite for his blend of military science fiction and epic space opera. Roswell, Georgia’s own Delilah Dawson, was recently chosen to continue the beloved Shannara series. Also appearing: Richard Kadrey, whose Sandman Slim books have earned cult status, and Michael Stackpole, the multi-genre storyteller known for his work in novels, games, and screenwriting.

Comic Creators

Comics — and the powerhouse writers and artists behind them — are a cornerstone of Dragon Con, taking fans into the creative process behind the legendary heroes, villains, and worlds that have shaped pop culture as we know it. Craig Kyle, a longtime Marvel writer best known for creating fan-favorite X-23 and contributing to X-Force, New X-Men, and Amazing X-Men, will be on hand along with Eisner Award–winning artist and writer Becky Cloonan, who made waves with her self-published hit The Mire, earning her both critical acclaim and the prestigious Inkpot Award. Former Marvel editor-in-chief Tom DeFalco brings decades of experience and more than fifty published works to the table. Legendary writer Steve Englehart has shaped the stories of Spider-Man, Captain America, The Fantastic Four, Batman, and Superman. Illustrator Darick Robertson, co-creator of Transmetropolitan and The Boys, bridges comics and screen as a creator and executive producer. And Colleen Doran, a New York Times bestselling artist, has contributed to Neil Gaiman’s Troll Bridge and Stan Lee’s Amazing, Fantastic, Incredible.

Electronic Frontiers Foundation

Dragon Con’s EFF track exists at the intersection of technology, law, activism, and society, and how they fit within the framework of a democratic society, touching on AI, information security, privacy, and individual rights online. This year’s guests bring serious policy chops to Dragon Con. They include: Meredith Rose, senior policy counsel at Public Knowledge and a science fiction and fantasy/horror author, covers tech, copyright, fandom, and music. Kurt Opsahl of the Filecoin Foundation focuses on cybersecurity and protecting the decentralized web. Hayley Tsukayama, associate director of legislative activism at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, drives state-level tech and privacy policy. And Tatiana Rice, director of AI legislation at the Future of Privacy Forum, explores the shifting dynamics between AI, data privacy, and civil rights.

Space Scientists

The Space track explores the unfathomable vastness of space, from manned missions to low earth orbit to the latest telescopes, missions, and probes that are bringing back hard information about our solar system, our galaxy, and regions beyond. This year’s guests span galaxies — and disciplines. They include: Les Johnson, futurist, author, and NASA technologist, writes both space science for the public and hard science fiction. Dr. Brett McGuire, astrochemist and MIT professor, has contributed to cutting-edge work at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory and Harvard-Smithsonian. Astrophysicist Steph LaMassa helps lead research on supermassive black holes with the James Webb Space Telescope. Dr. Robert E. Hampson, neuroscientist and author, explores how the brain encodes memory at Wake Forest. And Kim Steadman, systems engineer at NASA, is planning surface operations for NASA’s Dragonfly mission to Titan.

Science

Dragon Con’s Science Track brings together experts from a wide range of fields to share their passions and dive into the real-world science that fuels fandom, challenges assumptions, and sparks curiosity. This year’s guests include paleontologists David Moscato and Will Harris, co-hosts of The Common Descent Podcast, who use fossil hunting experience to lead entertaining discussions about life on Earth; Award-winning science writer Bethany Brookshire explores how humans relate to the environment and their place in it; Ryan Consell, an engineering professor and author of the Stealing from Wizards series, blends science with storytelling; and psychopharmacologist Jessica Cail, a Hollywood science advisor, unpacks addiction and the science behind favorite shows from Marvel, Disney, and Netflix.

Skeptics

Experts presenting in the Skeptic track teach critical thinking and good science in an entertaining way, giving fans the tools to spot scams, misdirection, and misinformation. This year’s guests include Brian Brushwood, award-winning magician and host of the hit podcast The World’s Greatest Con; comedian and director Ian Harris, known for his dead-on impressions and smart, socially charged humor; author and stand-up comic Leighann Lord, a StarTalkRadio co-host with Neil de Grasse Tyson and veteran of Comedy Central, HBO, and Showtime; and Curt Anderson, a professional magician and academic who specializes in human deception and how we fall for it.

About Dragon Con

Dragon Con is the internationally known pop culture convention held each Labor Day Weekend (Aug. 28 – Sept. 1, 2025) in Atlanta. Organized for fans, Dragon Con features more than 3,500 hours of comics, film, television, costuming, art, music, and gaming over four days. For more information, please visit www.dragoncon.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X.

DULCÉ SLOAN HEADLINING FIVE-SHOW SET AT LAUGHING SKULL LOUNGE JULY 24-26

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/21/25

Acclaimed Comedian Returning to Venue that Launched Her Career

After making a splash in Los Angeles and beyond, Dulcé Sloan will bring her stand-up comedy talent home to Atlanta with a three-day stop at Laughing Skull Lounge over July 24-26.

These shows are a return to Sloan’s roots, as she spent much of her childhood in Atlanta, performed her debut show at Laughing Skull Lounge in 2009, and became a resident comedian at the venue.

Her star continued to rise in Atlanta’s comedy scene, but her big break was in 2015 when she was named one of comedy’s Best New Faces at Montreal’s Just for Laughs comedy festival and won the “StandUp NBC” showcase.

Sloan then went on to appear on “Conan” and “The Steve Harvey Show” and became a correspondent on “The Daily Show with Trevor Noah” in 2017. In 2019, she headlined her own Comedy Central special that was named one of the best comedies of 2019 by The New York Times.

“We gave her a lot of love here, and she’s gone on to do incredible things. We’re proud that she used to perform at our stage before she had so much success,” says Bob Place, general manager of Laughing Skull Lounge.

Now Sloan is looking forward to sharing new material with her hometown crowd. “I am very excited to be back at the Laughing Skull and look forward to sharing my new hour with them,” says Sloan. “It’s the most personal hour I have ever written.”

Tickets for Sloan’s shows range from $35-$45 and are available to purchase at laughingskulllounge.com. The Thursday show is at 8 p.m., and the Friday and Saturday shows are at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.

ADAMS REALTORS RUN FOR THE PARK 5K SETS THE PACE FOR SUMMER SHADE FESTIVAL WEEKEND

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/19/25

Featuring a 5K and Free Kid’s Tot Trot for Ages 5 and Under

Through Historic Grant Park to Benefit the Grant Park Conservancy

Beginning at 8 a.m. on Saturday, August 23, 2025

The 23rd annual Summer Shade Festival returns to Grant Park on Saturday, August 23, and Sunday, August 24, 2025, kicking off with the annual Adams Realtors Run for the Park 5K. Hosted by Grant Park’s premier real estate firm, Adams Realtors, the scenic neighborhood race sets the pace for a weekend of music, art, food, and fun—all benefiting the Grant Park Conservancy. Open to runners, walkers, and strollers alike, the race begins at 8 a.m., followed by the Tot Trot for kids five and under at 8:45 a.m.

Race day kicks off at 7 a.m. with registration and check-in at Zoo Atlanta’s main entrance (800 Cherokee Ave), welcoming participants of all ages to support the Grant Park Conservancy’s mission to preserve, maintain, and enhance the park for future generations. The morning continues with a guided stretch led by René of Challenge Aerial at 7:30 a.m., followed by the National Anthem at 7:55 a.m. The certified 5K race begins at 8 a.m., winding through the heart of the historic Grant Park neighborhood and serving as a Peachtree Road Race qualifier. At 8:45 a.m., little ones can take part in the Tot Trot for kids five and under, and an awards ceremony will follow at 9 a.m. After crossing the finish line, participants 21 and older can show their race shirt—featuring original artwork by acclaimed Atlanta artist Greg Mike—along with valid ID to enjoy a complimentary draft beer at Dakota Blue, courtesy of Bill Adams and Adams Realtors. Registration is now open at summershadefestival.org.

Once the race wraps, the momentum carries into the Grant Park Conservancy Summer Shade Festival beginning at 10 a.m. Browse curated artist and vintage markets set to the sounds of a live DJ, treat taste buds to local food truck favorites, and let the little ones burn off energy in the vibrant Bouncy House Village. Festival highlights also include action-packed Deep South Wrestling matches, a rejuvenating Move & Groove session led by the Grant Park Parents Network, a complimentary bike valet for cyclists, live music, and plenty more surprises waiting to be discovered, making for a weekend full of fun for festival-goers of every kind.

Summer Shade Festival is produced by and benefits the Grant Park Conservancy, the non-profit organization committed to the restoration, maintenance, and beautification of historic Grant Park’s 131 acres. From trail maintenance to major restoration projects, the Conservancy works year-round to protect, improve, and activate this vital green space for everyone who enjoys it. Summer Shade is its biggest fundraiser of the year and one unforgettable way to give back to the park that gives so much to Atlanta.

Additional details about the 2025 festival, including the full performer lineup, will be announced in the coming weeks. For the most up-to-date information, visit www.summershadefestival.org. Stay connected on Instagram at @grantpark.atlanta and Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SummerShadeFestival/.

PUTTSHACK SWINGS INTO SUMMER WITH NEW ‘GAME ON SUMMER’ CAMPAIGN

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/18/25

Daily Giveaways to Giant Spritzes, Puttshack Brings next-level fun all Summer Long

Summer’s in session, and Puttshack is teeing up its most exciting seasonal campaign yet. “Game On Summer,” running June through August at Puttshack Atlanta and Dunwoody, is packed with weekday deals, buzzy cocktails, daily sweepstakes entries, and new ways to play including unlimited mini golf every Sunday.

Whether you’re swinging by for an after-work round or meeting up with friends, Puttshack is rolling out the red carpet Monday through Friday with exciting new offers designed to keep the summer vibes strong all week long.

WIN-WIN WEEKDAYS
Weekdays are officially on par with the weekend thanks to Puttshack’s expanded lineup of weekday perks. Guests can now enjoy Happy Hour Monday through Friday from 3–6pm, along with weekday-exclusive offers running all the way through Friday. Plus, every game played during the week automatically counts as an entry into the brand’s Summer Sweepstakes. To be eligible, guests just need to register for Puttshack Perks and sign in when they book or check in.

SUMMER SWEEPSTAKES
This summer, every game could bring more than just bragging rights. Puttshack’s Summer Sweepstakes is giving away weekly prizes and a high-stakes grand prize. One lucky guest each week will win a year of mini golf, and one grand prize winner will score the Ultimate Summer Prize Pack, featuring crowd-favorite summer gear like Yeti Coolers, JBL speakers, and Ray-Ban sunglasses. All weekday games count as entries for Perks members, with additional entry methods available via mail-in participation.

SUNDAY SPECIAL: ALL YOU CAN PUTT
Sundays now come with unlimited bragging rights. For the first time, Puttshack is offering an “All You Can Putt” special, giving guests the opportunity to play unlimited mini golf all day for one flat price. Whether you’re in for a quick game or want to dominate the leaderboard with back-to-back rounds, this Sunday-only offer is available at all to book online or in venue for both Seaport and Natick.

LTO SUMMER COCKTAILS + COURSE SIPS
The drink menu is also getting a sunny refresh with limited-time summer specials. Two oversized cocktails, The Big Spritz and Mai Tai For Two, are designed for sharing and perfect for group hangouts. For quick toasts between holes, guests can grab $5 Supertube Shots in Pineapple Patrón and Yuzu Goose flavors, served in fun LED-lit holders right on the course. These drinks add a fun, high-energy twist to the evening hours and make every round feel like a party.

BOOK YOUR SUMMER GROUP OUTING
Puttshack is also making it easier than ever for small groups to plan their summer outings. Groups of 13–18 can now book directly online, perfect for spontaneous gatherings, summer birthdays, or team bonding events that break the mold.

Further details and information on signing up for Puttshack Perks to take advantage of Game on Summer offers are available at: https://www.puttshack.com/promotions/game-on-summer/.

TWO URBAN LICKS’ SUNDAY SUPPER KICKS OFF PEACH WEEK WITH PEACH & PLENTY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/16/25

Family-Style Dining, Peachy Vibes, and a Fresh Start to Peach Week

Reservations Now Available for Sunday, July 20, at 6 p.m.

TWO urban licks is kicking off the peachiest week of the year with Peach & Plenty, a special Sunday Supper celebrating Georgia’s most iconic fruit. On Sunday, July 20, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., the BeltLine favorite is setting the table for a family-style dinner starring ripe, juicy peaches in savory mains, seasonal sides, and a mouthwatering dessert—all complemented by a peach-infused cocktail that’s as refreshing as it is festive.

Marking the launch of Peach Week (July 21–26) and building excitement for PeachFest on Sunday, July 27, this supper is the first taste of a weeklong philanthropic celebration in partnership with Pearson Farm. Guests can expect a menu rooted in summer’s sweetest bounty and served with the fiery energy that TWO urban licks is known for.

Tickets are $45 per person (plus tax and gratuity) and can be reserved at twourbanlicks.com. A staple in Atlanta’s dining scene for over 20 years, TWO urban licks is located at 820 Ralph McGill Boulevard NE in Atlanta, Georgia, serving dinner nightly and brunch on weekends. For reservations and more information, call 404.522.4622 or visit twourbanlicks.com. Stay connected on Instagram @twourbanlicks, Twitter @twourbanlicks, and Facebook at facebook.com/TWOurbanlicks.

KIMBERLY AKIMBO COMING TO THE FOX THEATRE ATLANTA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/13/25

North American Tour of the

2023 Tony Award-Winning BEST MUSICAL

KIMBERLY AKIMBO

To Play One-Week Engagement at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta,

Oct. 14 – 19

Tickets go on sale July 18

Winner of 5 Tony Awards, including Best Musical

New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award Winner for Best Musical

Lucille Lortel Award Winner for Outstanding Musical

Outer Critics Circle Award Winner for Outstanding Off-Broadway Musical

Drama Desk Award Winner for Best Musical

Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta is thrilled to announce that individual tickets for KIMBERLY AKIMBO,winner of five 2023 Tony Awards including BEST MUSICAL and the most critically acclaimed musical of its season, will go on sale Friday, July 18 at 10 a.m. The show will play a one-week engagement from Oct. 14 – 19 at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta as a part of the Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta 2025/2026 season. Tickets are available at the box office at 660 Peachtree Street NE, by visiting foxtheatre.org/kimberlyakimbo or by calling 855-285-8499. Group orders of 10 or more may be placed by contacting sales@foxtheatre.org.

KIMBERLY AKIMBO will play for a one-week engagement from Oct. 14 – 19. 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., 6:30 p.m.

Kimberly is about to turn 16 and recently moved with her family to a new town in suburban New Jersey. In this “howlingly funny heartbreaker of a show” (The New Yorker), Kim is forced to navigate family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush…and possible felony charges. Ever the optimist, she is determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure.

Named BEST MUSICAL by the Tony Awards, New York Drama Critics Circle, The Drama Desk Awards, The Lucille Lortel Awards, and The Outer Critics Circle Awards, KIMBERLY AKIMBO is also the winner of 4 additional Tony Awards: Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical, Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical, Best Score (David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori), and Best Book (David Lindsay-Abaire). With herwin for KIMBERLY AKIMBO,Jeanine Tesori made history as the first female composer to win two Tony Awards for Best Score.

KIMBERLY AKIMBOfeatures scenic design by David Zinn, costume design by Sarah Laux, lighting design by Jeanette Oi-Suk Yew, sound design by Kai Harada, projection design by Lucy MacKinnon, and wig, hair, and make-up design by J. Jared Janas. The production’s Music Supervisor is Chris Fenwick and the Music Director is Leigh Delano. KIMBERLY AKIMBO features orchestrations by Tony Award nominee John Clancy, with additional orchestrations by Macy Schmidt. The Production Supervisor is Arabella Powell, the Production Stage Manager is Shawn Pennington and casting is by The Telsey Office, Craig Burns, CSA.

The North American Tour of KIMBERLY AKIMBOis produced by David Stone, The Atlantic Theater Company, James L. Nederlander, LaChanze, John Gore, Patrick Catullo, and Aaron Glick.

KIMBERLY AKIMBOopened on Broadway to unanimous rave reviews on November 10, 2022, following its world premiere at the Atlantic Theater Company in November 2021. Upon closing on Broadway, KIMBERLY AKIMBOplayed 32 previews and 612 performances.

DRAGON CON SELECTS NAMI GEORGIA AS ITS OFFICIAL 2025 CHARITY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/13/25

Significant Mental Health Issues Across Georgia

Demands Increased Investment in Awareness and Support

Dragon Con, Atlanta’s internationally known pop culture, sci fi, fantasy, and gaming convention, has selected mental health advocacy and education organization NAMI Georgia as its 2025 official charity.

Many Georgians struggle with mental health challenges without access to the care they need, making it critical to invest in resources that support well-being, resilience, and recovery across our communities. In fact, approximately 1.4 million adults in Georgia experience mental illness annually, yet only 41 percent receive treatment.

NAMI Georgia is a leading voice on mental health in the state, working to raise awareness, provide support, and advocate for those affected by mental illness. They empower more than 18 local affiliates to offer advocacy, education, support, and public awareness to improve the lives of individuals and families dealing with mental health challenges.

Through convention-based auctions, special merchandise sales, special events, plus a dollar-for-dollar match from the convention, Dragon Con raised $300,000 in 2024 for the Georgia chapter of the Arthritis Foundation. Over the last decade, the convention has consistently raised more than $100,000 for each of its annual official charities – and more than $200,000 in each of the past four years – for a total of more than $1.48 million donated to Atlanta-based charities since 2015.

“What makes Dragon Con truly remarkable isn’t the costumes or the panels – it’s the heart of our community,” said Pat Henry, president of Dragon Con, Inc. “Every year, our fans rally behind a new cause, showing up with incredible generosity and a spirit of giving that inspires us all. Their support for local charities is a powerful reminder of what this community stands for.”

Dragon Con 2025 is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 28 to Monday, Sept. 1 in downtown Atlanta. The convention attracts more than 75,000 pop culture fans from all 50 states and several foreign countries who come to Dragon Con to meet their favorite actors, creators, and experts, show off their latest cosplay, make new friends, and revel in the joy that is Dragon Con.

For more information about NAMI Georgia, visit https://namiga.org/ or follow them on your favorite social media platform.

PANDA FEST: PANDA-MONIUM IN ATLANTA EARNS THE CITY AN ENCORE – TWO FESTS, ONE UNFORGETTABLE YEAR!

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/8/25

Update: FROM STREET EATS TO SWEET TREATS: PANDA FEST ANNOUNCES VENDOR LINEUP
FOR SECOND ATLANTA FESTIVAL I SEPT. 5-7, 2025

Panda Fest is making its way back to the Peach State, and with its return only a few weeks away, the festival has unveiled its official lineup of vendors! This Sept. 5-7, Atlantic Station’s Pinnacle Lot will transform into a bustling street market, where over 70 food vendors, artisan merchants, and cultural performers will come together for an incredible celebration and display of AAPI culture. Brimming with flavor and panda-themed fun, the selection of vendors participating in the second installation of Panda Fest in Atlanta promises delights to suit every taste.

Panda Fest made its debut in Atlanta back in April of this year, and the city will mark another first for Panda Fest with the September event, as the first city to welcome Panda Fest back for the second time in 2025. With its return, Panda Fest is introducing several enhancements to create an even better experience for festivalgoers who attended the first event, and for those joining Panda Fest for the first time. A few of the most popular vendors from the last festival will now have more than one station, allowing guests to enjoy more of their popular offerings. Food vendors will also offer dishes in two portion sizes at different price points, allowing attendees to enjoy more dishes at a lower cost. In addition, there will be additional seating areas and more drink stations helping to allow guests to enjoy more of their water and other drinks from any location at the festival.

Attendees can expect both new and returning vendors from the first Panda Fest, including beloved local eateries and food offerings from across the country, including states like California, New York, and more.

“The vendors are such an important part of the festival, and we have really focused on finding and selecting restaurants and shops that truly represent the best parts of Asian cuisine and culture,” said BiuBiu Xu, Founder of Panda Fest. “They help to create an experience where people connect with each other while sharing a meal, learning about a tradition, and sometimes even learning a vendor’s personal story. This helps Panda Fest truly feel like a celebration of the richness and diversity of AAPI culture.”

FOOD + BEVERAGE STREET STALLS
This September’s roster offers a bite for every appetite, from bao buns and sizzling skewers fresh off the grill to inventive desserts and refreshing bubble teas, allowing guests to savor flavors from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and more. The full lineup of food vendors + where they are based includes:

ARTISAN MARKET
In addition to the food, Panda Fest’s artisan market will feature makers and merchants offering crafts, clothing, jewelry, home décor, and of course, panda-themed collectibles and gifts inspired by Asian cultures. The artisan vendor lineup includes:

*Indicates a vendor who also participated in the first Atlanta Panda Fest.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS
Alongside the food and shopping, Panda Fest Atlanta guests can also look forward to:

Live entertainment, including modern K-pop dance routines, lion dances, theatrical performances, and more
Traditional arts like calligraphy, sugar painting, and paper cutting
Family-friendly panda fun, including Instagram-worthy installations like a 15-foot inflatable panda, a panda bounce ring, and themed treats, souvenirs, and games galore

TICKET INFO
General Admission and VIP tickets are available on Eventbrite. General Admission includes entry to the festival and two complimentary gifts: a customized Atlanta festival pin and an inflatable panda headband. VIP tickets include upgraded perks such as shaded seating, VIP restrooms, exclusive experiences, a private bar, and a Panda Fest tote bag. Panda Fest encourages purchasing tickets only from the Eventbrite link on the Panda Fest website and avoiding third-party sellers.

Visit www.pandafests.com for ticket information and more. Follow along at @pandafestatlanta on Instagram for festival updates, vendor spotlights, and sneak peeks. Panda Fest is a rain-or-shine event unless severe weather conditions require cancellation.

Sept. 5–7 | Early Bird Tickets Go on Sale Friday, July 11 at 10 a.m. EST

WHAT:
Panda Fest

WHEN:
Friday, Sept. 5: 12:00–5:00 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 6: 10:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 7: 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.

WHERE:
Atlantic Station | Pinnacle Lot | 221 20th St., Atlanta, GA 30363

TICKETS:
Daily Early Bird tickets go on sale on Friday, July 11, at 10 a.m. EST. General Admission and VIP tickets are also available. See below or visit www.pandafests.com for ticket details and pricing.

Panda Fest, one of the nation’s fastest-growing outdoor Asian food and culture festivals, is thrilled to announce its return to Atlanta later this year. As the first city to host Panda Fest, Atlanta set the stage with a sold-out debut that created incredible momentum and excitement. From Sept. 5–7, Panda Fest will bring the panda-monium back to Atlantic Station’s Pinnacle Lot with a vibrant celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander cultures. Guests can enjoy a weekend filled with delicious food, live performances, arts and crafts, and interactive panda-themed experiences designed for all ages.

Founded by BiuBiu Xu, the creator of New York City’s acclaimed Dragon Fest, Panda Fest began as a one-day pop-up and quickly grew into a multi-city, multi-day festival. It has sold out in cities including Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia, and Seattle, with plans to return to all of them in 2026. Atlanta is the only city selected to host Panda Fest twice in one year.

“Atlanta holds a special place in Panda Fest’s story as the first city to welcome us,” said Xu. “We’re honored to bring the festival back for a second time in 2025. It’s a testament to Atlanta’s vibrant AAPI community and their appetite for cultural celebration. This September’s event promises even more food, art, and fun, and we can’t wait to see everyone back for this exciting weekend.”

Building on the success of the first Atlanta event, the Panda Fest team has listened carefully to attendee feedback to make this fall’s festival even better. Enhancements include smoother and faster entry with more staffing, additional timed ticketing options to provide greater flexibility, budget-friendly eats under $15 alongside larger portions, more drink stations to keep guests refreshed, shaded VIP seating, and increased signage to help guests navigate the festival grounds with ease.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT PANDA FEST ATLANTA
Guests can explore a culinary journey across Asia with more than 80+ food vendors and food trucks offering 300+ dishes from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond. From authentic street food to creative fusion bites, there’s something for every palate. In addition to the food, attendees can browse a curated marketplace of 25+ vendors offering crafts, clothing, accessories, and artisan goods inspired by Asian heritage. Traditional arts like calligraphy, sugar painting, and paper cutting will be featured alongside modern K-pop dance routines, lion dances, theatrical performances, and more. And of course, pandas take center stage – expect Instagram-worthy installations like a 15-foot inflatable panda, a panda bounce ring, and themed treats, souvenirs, and games galore.

TICKET INFO
Tickets go on sale Friday, July 11, with a limited number of Early Bird tickets available through Sunday, July 27 at 10 p.m. EST or until sold out. General Admission includes entry to the festival and two complimentary gifts: a customized Atlanta festival pin and an inflatable panda headband. VIP tickets include upgraded perks such as shaded seating, VIP restrooms, exclusive experiences, a private bar, and a Panda Fest tote bag.

Visit www.pandafests.com for ticket information, vendor applications, and more. Follow along at @pandafestatlantaon Instagram for festival updates, vendor spotlights, and sneak peeks. Panda Fest is a rain-or-shine event unless severe weather conditions require cancellation.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL ATLANTA TO HOST “PAR-TEE FOR A PURPOSE” BENEFITING CAMP PEACH PALS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/7/25

A Spirited Evening of Light Bites, Music, Prizes, a Silent Auction, and More

Thursday, July 10, 2025 from| 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta invites the community to swing into summer for a good cause at Par-tee for a Purpose, a lively fundraising event in support of Camp Peach Pals, its signature program benefiting children affected by cancer. Taking place on Thursday, July 10, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m., the spirited evening will feature light bites, refreshing drinks, music, surprise giveaways, and a robust silent auction—all hosted at the iconic Midtown property.

With a suggested donation of $50, guests will gain access to this meaningful celebration of joy, generosity, and community. RSVP here to be part of the festivities.

From July 23 to 26, the property will once again transform into a city-based summer camp for children ages 6 to 13 who have experienced a cancer diagnosis in their family. Guest rooms become cozy cabins, meeting spaces turn into dining halls and activity zones, and days are filled with talent shows, crafts, music, and more led by trained volunteers and supported by medical professionals.

Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta is located at 75 Fourteenth Street NE, Atlanta, GA. For more information, visit www.fourseasons.com/atlanta. Stay connected via Instagram at @fsatlanta.

VIRTUE ROOFTOP HOSTS BEYONCE NIGHT THIS SATURDAY, JULY 12TH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/7/25

A One-Night Celebration of Queen Bey

With Beyoncé performing four nights in Atlanta this weekend, Virtue Rooftop is giving the Beyhive one more reason to celebrate. This Saturday, July 12th, from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM, Virtue is hosting Beyoncé Night—an evening dedicated to her iconic music, skyline views, craft cocktails, and good energy all around.

The rooftop opens at 5:00 PM with food and drinks flowing from the start, and DJ Bambino will take over at 8:00 PM, spinning Beyoncé hits all night long—from fan-favorite throwbacks to Cowboy Carter standouts.

Located above 5Church Midtown, Virtue Rooftop offers the best of both worlds with a half-indoor, half-outdoor layout, a full cocktail menu, elevated small plates and desserts, and free validated parking. Entry is 21+ only, with no cover.

EVENT DETAILS:
Virtue Rooftop — Above 5Church Midtown
1197 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA
Saturday, July 12th | 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
DJ Bambino starts at 8:00 PM
Craft cocktails | Small plates & desserts
Indoor-outdoor rooftop with skyline views
Free validated parking
21+ only | No cover