Tag Archive for: family friendly

ENJOY AN EVENING OF FREE FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN AT THE AVENUE WEST COBB’S SPRING FESTIVAL

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/15/25

Thursday, April 17 5-7pm

Atlanta area families are invited to the Avenue West Cobb for their Spring Festival; an evening filled with FREE family-friendly activities ahead of Easter Sunday. The Avenue’s Spring Festival is the culmination of the center’s BLOOM campaign; a month-long series of events designed to promote sustainability and celebrate the coming of spring.

 The Avenue at West Cobb Spring Festival offers guests the perfect mix of entertainment, shopping and celebration, featuring:

  • The chance to meet the Easter Bunny
  • Easter-themed activities including an egg drop for kids ages 5 and under and a scavenger hunt for older children
  • A petting farm
  • Face painting and more fun activities for the whole family

WHERE:         The Avenue West Cobb – Green Space

                        3625 Dallas Hwy

                        Marietta, GA 30064

APRIL BRINGS FESTIVALS, FITNESS & FAMILY FUN TO THE 30363

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/31/25

Atlantic Station to host Panda Fest, Wellness Wednesdays, Atlanta Seafood Festival and more!


 April is blooming with vibrant events at Atlantic Station for all ages to enjoy! Whether you want to enhance your fitness routine with Wellness Wednesday, browse unique handcrafted goods at the Creator’s Market, or treat the little ones with springtime fun at Tot Spot, there’s something for everyone. Food lovers can indulge in global flavors at the sold-out Panda Fest and the highly anticipated Atlanta Seafood Festival, while Walk MS Atlanta offers an opportunity to support a great cause. For a touch of elegance, don’t miss the Millennium Gate High Tea experience. Of course, don’t forget to explore Atlantic Station’s delicious food and beverage offerings! Check out the full lineup of exciting events happening this April at Atlantic Station!

Atlantic Station’s April Calendar of Events includes:

Every Wednesday: WELLNESS WEDNESDAY
Located at Atlantic Green | 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Find your midweek motivation at Wellness Wednesday, a free outdoor workout series on Atlantic Green! Every Wednesday, join expert instructors for an energizing fitness session designed to refresh your mind and body. From revitalizing yoga to high-energy dance fit, each week offers a new way to get moving in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.  Registration for this free event is required. Visit here to register. 

Every Weekend: CREATOR’S MARKET
Located Around Atlantic Green | Every Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. | Every Sunday, 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The Creator’s Market brings unstoppable creativity to Atlantic Station, beginning Saturday, April 5, with a later start time of 4:30 p.m. Shop locally and celebrate Atlanta’s artisans every Saturday (11 a.m. to 9 p.m.) and Sunday (12 p.m. to 7 p.m.) in April with festive art, jewelry, couture and more, all while supporting the makers of the South. Explore more details here.

Tuesday, April 1: TOT SPOT
Located at Atlantic Green | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Hop into fun at Atlantic Station’s Easter-themed Tot Spot! Designed for children ages 5 and under, this special edition of our monthly event lets little ones celebrate the season. Kids can enjoy a festive Easter egg “hunt,” a meet-and-greet with the Easter Bunny, creative fun with decorating their own mini flower pots, and picking out a plant to take home. After playtime, enjoy a tasty lunch with exclusive discounts at select restaurants and retailers using the Tot-Spot A Card. Don’t miss this egg-stra special day of fun! Visit here to learn more.

Friday, April 4; Saturday, April 5; & Sunday, April 6: PANDA FEST | SOLD OUT
Located at Pinnacle Lot | Friday 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. & Sunday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Panda Fest, one of the biggest outdoor Asian food festivals in the U.S. is coming to Atlantic Station! Enjoy a culinary journey through Asia with a lineup of 100+ food stalls and trucks. Festival goers will also experience a market fair with over 20 vendors selling crafts, clothing, and other merchandise inspired by Asian culture, panda-themed items including a 15-foot inflatable panda and a panda bounce ring, live cultural performances, and more.  The event is sold out with a waiting list for tickets, visit here for more information.

Saturday, April 5: WALK MS ATLANTA
Located at Atlantic Green + through the district/30363 | 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Join Atlantic Station for Walk MS, an inspiring event dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the Georgia Chapter of the National MS Society for multiple sclerosis research and support. The walk offers both one-mile and three-mile routes, a Circles of Support area, activations, complimentary refreshments and lively tunes. Register for the walk here.

Sunday, April 20:MILLENNIUM GATE HIGH TEA
Located at Millennium Gate Museum | 12 p.m. & 4 p.m.EDT
Join the Millenium Gate Museum for an authentic British tea in the Heart of Atlanta. This immersive afternoon tea experience surrounds guests with the richness of Atlanta history and culture while highlighting the traditions of tea from across the pond. Fresh scones and sandwiches provided by The Ginger Room. All experiences include museum admission and a guided tour. Visit here to learn more and secure tickets.  

Saturday, April 26: ATLANTA SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
Located at Pinnacle Lot | 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Get ready for a culinary extravaganza as the Atlanta Seafood Festival sets sail for Atlantic Station! Immerse in the aroma of freshly prepared seafood delights complemented perfectly by a selection of beer, wine and refreshing mimosas. With more than ten delectable restaurants, a souvenir cup and entertainment, the festival promises a feast for the senses like no other. Visit here to purchase tickets.

THE AVENUE WEST COBB KICKS OFF SPRING WITH FIRST EVER BLOOM CAMPAIGN: A MONTH OF SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY-FRIENDLY FUN

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/6/25

BLOOM’s month-long festivities allow Marietta community members

 to take part in sustainable practices and seasonal activities

The Avenue West Cobb is proud to announce BLOOM, an innovative month-long event series dedicated to caring for our planet and celebrating the coming of spring. Set to run from March 15 to April 22, BLOOM will transform The Avenue West Cobb into a hotspot for eco-friendly events and activities.

“From its environmentally conscious programs to its family-friendly events, BLOOM is a representation of The Avenue’s commitment to environmental care and community well-being,” says John Liu, general manager at The Avenue West Cobb. “We’re beyond excited to offer a program where sustainability, creativity and community can take center stage for an entire month.”

BLOOM is designed to inspire visitors to embrace sustainable living practices while building a stronger sense of community and promoting fresh beginnings. With BLOOM expected to attract thousands of visitors, these events will provide a significant boost to local businesses while encouraging eco-conscious living. BLOOM will feature a wide variety of fun activities for people of all ages, including:

World Water Day – On March 22 from 5 to 7 p.m., guests can receive a free ‘Avenue West Cobb’ branded water bottle and goodie bag with coupons and treats from Avenue shops, while supplies last. During the Water Day celebration, The Avenue will welcome donations directly benefiting the event’s charity partner Pure Water for the World, a nonprofit organization that provides sustainable water, hygiene and sanitation services to families in Central America and the Caribbean. Donors will be entered into a $100 gift card giveaway, and the winner of this giveaway can choose to put their winnings toward their favorite Avenue store or re-donate it to Pure Water for the World.

Spring Fashion Preview – From March 24 through March 28 from 4 to 6 p.m., guests can discover the latest spring collections from select retailers at the Avenue West Cobb, including J. Jill, White House Black Market, Altar’d State and more. In addition to the fashion preview, the event will also feature exclusive giveaways and other promotional opportunities at select stores.

Spring Festival – On April 17 from 5 to 7 p.m., the Avenue West Cobb will cap off BLOOM with their beloved Spring Festival in the Green Space. Offering the perfect mix of entertainment, shopping and celebration, guests will have the chance to meet the Easter Bunny and take part in Easter-themed activities such as an egg drop for children ages 5 and under, scavenger hunt for older children, face painting for the whole family, and a petting farm for more family-friendly fun.

In addition to these events and activities, local artist Sheena Yoe will showcase her Spring Collection, a series of floral and spring-inspired art pieces, in suite 360. These works will be available for viewing starting in March and through April.

For a full calendar of events, visit avenuewestcobb.com/bloom and follow The Avenue West Cobb on Facebook and Instagram.

BOONE’S TEES UP THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF YEAR WITH A JOLLY HOLIDAY BRUNCH WITH SANTA CLAUS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 11/20/24

Family Friendly Celebration Featuring Holiday Themed Cocktails, Classic Brunch Bites, Cookie Decorating, and Pictures with Santa 

Reservations Now Open for Sunday, December 22, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Santa Claus is coming to Boone’s! This holiday season, families are invited to make magical memories at Boone’s Holiday Brunch with Santa on Sunday, December 22, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nestled next to the scenic Bobby Jones Golf Course, this special celebration offers an afternoon of festive fun for all ages, complete with cookie decorating, photos with Santa, and a delectable brunch menu. From 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., guests can visit the Georgia Hall of Fame room for a cozy holiday moment with Santa himself.

Capture cherished photos, decorate cookies, and enjoy the joy of the season in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Meanwhile, brunch goers can savor Boone’s signature dishes and exclusive holiday fare, perfect for sweet and savory cravings alike. Enjoy favorites like the Boone’s Biscuit Sandwich, Gulf Shrimp and Grits, or the decadent French Toast, alongside themed cocktails and fan-favorite sips like the peachy Bobby Jones cocktail.

Still searching for the perfect gift? Guests can purchase engraved bricks for the Bobby Jones Golf Course Memorial Plaza during the event. These sentimental keepsakes make meaningful presents while supporting the Bobby Jones Foundation’s mission to create positive change through golf. Boone’s is located at 2205 Northside Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30305. For reservations and more information, visit www.boonesatl.com or call 770-835-4267. Stay connected on Instagram and Facebook at @boonesatl.

Photo: Dave Sansom

FINS UP WATER PARK UNVEILS NEW WATERSLIDE COASTER ‘APOCALYPSO’

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/18/24

Guests experience what’s ‘making waves’ at the exhilarating Fins Up Water Park, new resort-style cabanas, double the number of inflatables and much more

No gate fee 5/18-5/19!

Fins Up Water Park (formerly Margaritaville at Lanier Islands Water Park) unveiled its new, highly anticipated Fins Up Falls waterslide complex yesterday, which features Georgia’s first and largest waterslide coaster, Apocalypso. To celebrate the occasion, Fins Up hosted more than 60 of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier’s middle and high school students. The group, who were among the first to ride the revolutionary slide, also received a $1,500 donation.

“We are grateful to Margaritaville at Lanier Islands for their incredible generosity,” said Anastasia Legakes, COO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier. “The donation will make a significant impact on the programs we offer here at the Boys and Girls Club of Lanier, ensuring that we can continue to empower and uplift the youth in our community. We are especially thrilled that our kids were the first to experience the exhilarating rush of the brand-new waterslide, Apocalypso.”

Apocalypso is one slide incorporated into the four-slide tower, which spans 418 feet and features the most significant drop of its kind in the U.S. The slide sends riders on an adventure through steep hills and valleys at an average water speed of 30 mph before a dramatic final descent onto a massive wave wall.

The water park also debuted three additional slides for the 2024 season, bringing its total number of attractions to 18.

  • Serpentine Storm: Thrilling rotations combined with a downward-spiraling descent.
  • Dreamsicle Dive: High-intensity fun with closed and open tubes for an exhilarating ride.
  • Mango Mania: Perfect for younger thrill-seekers.

“Our goal is to provide the best water park experience for guests, and what better way than bring the first waterslide coaster to Georgia on the shores of Lake Lanier,” said Bucky Perry, Vice President of Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. “We believe in providing guests with the best customer experience possible and I’m confident we will exceed their expectations with our updates at Fins Up Water Park.”

In addition to Fins Up Falls, the water park doubled the Aquatic Adventure inflatable obstacle course in Lake Lanier, providing guests with increased capacity and numerous opportunities to jump and splash in the lake.


For those seeking a retreat amidst the excitement, guests can enjoy the new resort-style cabana rental program poolside. The spacious cabanas offer cozy seating, sling chaises, Wi-Fi, and tables, all available for daily rental. Accommodating up to 10 people, cabana guests can enjoy personal service with advance bookings available on the park’s website. Large poolside cabanas are priced at $299 for a full-day rental, while smaller-scale beachside palapas are $199.

Additional upgrades include a new ticketing and Point of Sale (POS) system featuring high-tech wristbands for a seamless park experience and LandShark Bar & Grill’s expanded food and beverage offerings, including breakfast on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Fins Up Water Park will operate daily from May 23 until Labor Day, plus additional weekends. The hours of operation can be found here.

The 2024 Season Pass, priced at $129.99, includes admission for the entire summer season, waiving the $20 gate fee into Lanier Islands on every visit. The Season Pass is currently discounted at $99.99 through May 31. Families purchasing two season passes will enjoy free admission for children ages three to five.

For more information on season passes, visit MargaritavilleatLanierIslands.com.

DINO SAFARI EXTENDED SUMMER HOURS!

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/1/23

Immersive dinosaur experience entertains and transports families back to prehistoric ages Announcing Extended Summer Hours Starting May 29

 Dino Safari: A Walk-Thru Adventure has delighted families in the Metro Atlanta area since 2021 and is the perfect experiential family walk-through attraction for an engaging and educational escape. The exhibit is welcoming even more family fun, with extended hours for the summertime, starting May 29 and continuing through Sept. 4.

Imagine Exhibitions launched this dinosaur-filled indoor experience for local families and visitors to get up-close-and-personal with larger-than-life animatronic dinosaurs and the most fascinating, fan-favorite prehistoric inhabitants! Dino Safari: A Walk-Thru Adventure is open at North Point Mall in Alpharetta and tickets are on sale now at DinoSafari.com. 

“If you have a dinosaur fan at home this is a must see for locals and tourists,” said Tom Zaller, CEO of Imagine Exhibitions. “See enormous animatronic dinosaurs, real fossils, interactive games, virtual reality, and incredible science, all in one place! Dino Safari is the perfect activity for dinosaur fans of all ages to become immersed in an entertaining and educational globetrotting dinosaur adventure.” 

In this walk-through adventure, visitors meet and interact with more than 30 dinosaurs including the T. rex of North America and the Spinosaurus from Africa. Built with fun in mind but backed by world class paleontologists, this exhibition has it all. With real science, incredible installations, and realistic moving animatronics, Dino Safari will transport visitors back millions of years to meet these prehistoric creatures in replicas of their natural habitats.

Located in North Point Mall on the upper level, the experience showcases how dinosaurs evolved over time and offers hands-on challenges for visitors to solve, along with depictions of natural elements that often occurred during this time, such as earthquakes. The thrilling adventure features captivating virtual reality technology, spectacular installations, and interactive activities for children. 

The exhibition was created by Atlanta-based Imagine Exhibitions in collaboration with world-renowned Ph.D. Dinosaur Paleontologist Gregory M. Erickson, who is one of only 150 full-time professional dinosaur paleontologists in the world. It’s currently exciting audiences in Boston, San Antonio and Las Vegas as well as Atlanta.

For more information about DINO SAFARI, visit DinoSafari.com. 

CONNECT WITH DINO SAFARI:
https://www.facebook.com/DinoSafariWalkThru
https://www.instagram.com/dinosafariusa/ 
#DINOSAFARI

LOCATION:
North Point Mall, Upper Level – 1000 North Point Circle, Alpharetta, GA 30022

Extended summer hours begin May 29 and continue through September 4

Hours Prior to May 29
SUNDAY 12:00 PM TO 7:00 PM
MONDAY CLOSED
TUESDAY CLOSED
WEDNESDAY 11:00 AM TO 7:00 PM
THURSDAY 11:00 AM TO 7:00 PM
FRIDAY 11:00 AM TO 8:00 PM
SATURDAY 11:00 AM TO 8:00 PM

Extended Summer Hours Starting May 29 and continuing through Sept. 4
SUNDAY 12:00 PM TO 7:00 PM
MONDAY 11:00 AM TO 7:00 PM
TUESDAY 11:00 AM TO 7:00 PM
WEDNESDAY 11:00 AM TO 7:00 PM
THURSDAY 11:00 AM TO 7:00 PM
FRIDAY 11:00 AM TO 8:00 PM
SATURDAY 11:00 AM TO 8:00 PM

SECOND SELF BEER CO TO HOST FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENT BENEFITING ATLANTA FIREFIGHTERS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/20/22

Locals are invited to shop, eat and sip brews to benefit Atlanta Professional Fire Fighters

Saturday, 9/24 at Noon to 5 pm

On Saturday, September 24, West Midtown’s favorite brewery will host a festival to raise funds for Atlanta Professional Fire Fighters (APFF), a non-profit that fights for the city’s firefighters to have proper safety resources, funds for medical care and more.

The festivities, happening from noon to 5 p.m., will feature a pop-up market, food trucks, various Second Self beers, games and more. 

Atlantans can shop from local vendors such as Sweet As a Peach Jams & Pickles, Just Add Honey Tea Company and Amore Organics — and for custom t-shirts by APFF — from noon to 2 p.m. Throughout the event, attendees can mingle with local firefighters and participate in games while savoring delicious eats and sips for a good cause. 

Second Self is releasing a limited-edition version of their fan-favorite “La Fría” with an added fruit element and renaming it La Fuega for the day (meaning “fire” in Spanish) – a nod to their support of APFF. All proceeds from La Fuega will benefit local firefighters. 

A portion of event proceeds will go towards APFF’s health and wellness fund. The charity covers everything from mental health support for PTSD symptoms, recovery for job-related injuries, funeral costs as well as much-needed financial support for families of fallen firefighters.

Fundraisers APFF has previously hosted include their annual St. Patrick’s Day Picnic in conjunction with the city’s St. Patrick’s Day parade, and a donation dine-in where they partnered with local businesses like Chick Fil-A, Hudson Grille and others on International Firefighters’ Day.

For more information about the festival, please visit APFF’s Facebook event page.