Tag Archive for: festival

SIP BROOKHAVEN RETURNS APRIL 12TH WITH EXCITING NEW FOOD AND DRINK PAIRING STATIONS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/17/25

Presented by Explore Brookhaven and the City of Brookhaven 

Mark your calendars and prepare your taste buds for the return of Sip Brookhaven 2025, happening on Saturday, April 12, at the Quad at Oglethorpe University. This year, the highly anticipated event is taking indulgence to a new level by introducing food and drink pairing stations, where the best local restaurants and chefs team up with top-tier beer, wine, spirits, and craft cocktail brands to showcase unforgettable flavor pairings. 

Attendees will enjoy a culinary journey through Brookhaven’s vibrant food and drink scene,  savoring small bites from beloved local eateries paired perfectly with premium beverages. This  unique twist adds an elevated experience for foodies and drink enthusiasts alike, making Sip  Brookhaven the must-attend event of the spring. 

Details at a Glance: 

• What: Sip Brookhaven 2025 

• When: Saturday, April 12, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.  

• Where: The Quad at Oglethorpe University 

• Tickets: Early bird tickets are $65 through February 28. Prices increase to $75 on  March 1, and tickets will be $85 at the gate on the day of the event. 

• Purchase Tickets: Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite at  

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sip-brookhaven-tickets-1021722979937?utm campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl. 

“Sip Brookhaven has become a signature celebration of our community’s culinary excellence  and dynamic atmosphere,” said Renee Areng, President & CEO of Explore Brookhaven. “This  year’s food and drink pairing stations will bring an exciting new dimension to the event,  highlighting the creativity and talent of our local chefs and beverage partners.” 

Whether you’re a foodie, a craft beverage enthusiast, or simply looking for a lively weekend  activity, Sip Brookhaven has something for everyone. Attendees will also enjoy live music, a  festive atmosphere, and the opportunity to mingle with fellow food lovers on the lawn in The  Quad at Oglethorpe University. 

Tickets are expected to sell out quickly. Purchase yours today to secure your spot and save with  early bird pricing. Follow Explore Brookhaven on social media for event updates, participating  restaurants and beverage partners, and other announcements. For more information about Sip Brookhaven 2025 or other events in Brookhaven, visit Explore  Brookhaven’s website.

FIFTH ANNUAL MOTHER SHUCKER – THIS WEEKEND!

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/17/25

Arnette’s Chop Shop to Host Fifth Annual Mother Shucker Oyster Festival Oysters, Drinks, Live Music & More—Get Tickets to the Ultimate Oyster Celebration 

Arnette’s Chop Shop is thrilled to announce the return of its much-anticipated Fifth Annual Mother Shucker Oyster Festival, set to take place on Sunday, March 23, 2025, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the restaurant’s beautiful courtyard. 

This year’s festival promises an unforgettable afternoon filled with fresh oysters served in a variety of ways—raw, roasted, and stewed—paired with an exceptional selection of signature cocktails, beer, wine and live music.  

Event Highlights 

• Date: Sunday, March 23, 2025 

• Time: 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. 

• Price: $85 per person 

• What’s Included: 

o A feast of raw, roasted, and stewed oysters—plus oyster sliders, gumbo,  bloody Maria shooters with Mezcal and more 

o Unlimited beer, wine, and signature cocktails 

o Live music  

• Premium cash bar 

Tickets for the Mother Shucker Oyster Festival cost $85 per person, offering unlimited  access to food, drinks and live entertainment throughout the event. Tickets are available for purchase online at Arnette’s Chop Shop. 

ATLANTA INTERNATIONAL AI FILM FESTIVAL DEBUTS MARCH 22

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

The first annual Atlanta International AI Film Festival (AIAIFF) is on March 22, 2025 from 4:00 – 9:00 pm at MODEx, offering filmmakers, content creators, and creative professionals an opportunity to explore the future of artificial intelligence and storytelling. As the first AI-focused film festival in the Southeast, AIAIFF aims to ignite conversations about how artificial intelligence is shaping the way we create, produce, and experience film.

Founded by Latina filmmaker, UGA alumna, and actress Natalia Gonzalez, AIAIFF was born from her own journey navigating Georgia’s indie film scene.

“As a filmmaker who started from scratch here in Georgia, I know how vital it is to find trustworthy collaborators and stay on top of new tools that can elevate our work,” said Gonzalez. “I created AIAIFF to bring our community together—so we can learn, experiment, and grow into a creative force known for innovation and storytelling that’s uniquely Atlanta.”

AIAIFF is designed for filmmakers, content creators, and AI enthusiasts eager to explore how emerging technology is reshaping storytelling. Whether you’re an indie filmmaker experimenting with AI tools, a creative technologist pushing boundaries, or a media professional curious about the future of content creation, AIAIFF offers hands-on workshops, thought-provoking panels, and networking opportunities led by an impressive lineup of industry leaders. 

  • Verena Puhm – AI filmmaker & producer (CNN, BBC, Netflix) known for integrating AI into cinematic storytelling, recently featured in Forbes as a top AI artist.
  • Yves Bergquist – AI researcher & director at USC’s Entertainment Technology Center, where he works with Hollywood studios & tech giants like Google and Amazon.
  • Karina Anglada – Strategic Development Manager at Adobe, specializing in AI-powered post-production workflows.
  • Stacey Kelly – Award-winning filmmaker & finalist for the Disney Directing Fellowship, blending AI with authentic storytelling.
  • Bobby Majoch – AI researcher and graduate student at Georgia State University’s CMII, specializing in AI-driven virtual production and storytelling innovation.
  • Alissa Huelsman-Bell – Author of 19 books and founder of Bell Boys Media, blending storytelling with media production to create compelling narratives across film and literature.

As conversations around AI in filmmaking continue to spark debate, AIAIFF welcomes both excitement and skepticism. The festival is committed to promoting responsible, ethical AI adoption, with a strong focus on protecting creative ownership and empowering storytellers—not replacing them. 

“AI can’t replace human emotion, intuition, or lived experience,” said Gonzalez. “But when used thoughtfully, it can remove barriers, speed up workflows, and help indie filmmakers tell even more ambitious stories—on their own terms.”

AIAIFF has selected 10 finalist films to be screened, with winners announced in five categories — including one winner selected by audience vote. The festival will close the day with a networking mixer, providing attendees with the chance to connect with fellow creatives, industry pros, and technology experts.

The official media partner of the festival, Georgia Entertainment, brings its deep connections and commitment to spotlighting innovation, creativity, and growth within Georgia’s creative economy. 

Tickets are available now at aiaiff.com, with a 20% discount for early registrants using code AIAIFF20 at checkout.  VIP ticket holders will receive a swag bag and raffle ticket for exclusive prizes. For programming, and speaker updates, visit their website at aiaiff.com. Follow @atlaifilmfest on Instagram for the latest announcements.

MARCH HAPPENINGS AT ATLANTIC STATION: EAT, DRINK AND CELEBRATE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/4/25

Celebrate the arrival of Spring with Brunch, St. Patrick’s Day Festivities, Wine Tastings & so much more!


Spring has arrived and so has a new season of events at Atlantic Station! From mouthwatering bites at the Atlanta Brunch Festival to festive St. Patrick’s Day celebrations at Shamrock the Station, there’s something for every taste and style. Sip and socialize at the High Museum Atlanta Wine Auction’s Friday Uncorked, catch thrilling basketball playoffs at Overtime Elite Arena, and shop unique finds at the weekly Creator’s Market. With a packed calendar of can’t-miss events, Atlantic Station is the top destination for March entertainment! 

Atlantic Station’s March Calendar of Events includes: 

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.
Atlantic Station Creator’s Market returns with unstoppable creativity. Shop locally and celebrate Atlanta’s artisans every Saturday (11 a.m. to 9 a.m.) and Sunday (12 p.m. to 7 p.m.) in March with festive art, jewelry, couture and more, all while supporting the makers of the South. Visit here to learn more. 

Saturday, March 8: ATLANTA BRUNCH FESTIVAL
Located at Pinnacle Lot | 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. EDT
Atlanta Brunch Festival returns for one more day in March, serving up an assortment of delicious brunch bites from the city’s best restaurants. Enjoy sweet and savory food samples, plus signature brunch beverages, including mimosas, Bloody Marys, brunch punch, beer, wine and seltzers. Live music and a DJ will create a spirited scene for those looking for the perfect spring outing. Visit here to learn more and purchase tickets. 

Saturday, March 15: SHAMROCK THE STATION
Located on Atlantic Green | 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Experience Irish-themed vendors, face painting, green beer, live music and a variety of fun activities celebrating Irish culture and traditions! Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. Cash and cards accepted. Bring your family and friends and don’t forget to wear green! Visit here for all the details. 

Sunday, March 16: MILLENNIUM GATE HIGH TEA   
Located at Millennium Gate Museum | 12 p.m. & 4 p.m. EDT
Join the Millennium Gate Museum for an authentic St. Patrick’s Day-themed 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.   

Friday, March 21: HIGH MUSEUM ATLANTA WINE AUCTION: FRIDAY UNCORKED
Located at Pinnacle Lot | 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. EDT
For over thirty years, the High Museum Atlanta Wine Auction has brought the best wineries to Atlanta and invited guests to “party with a purpose” by raising funds to support the High Museum of Art. Get ready for an exciting evening under the tents at Atlantic Station with Friday Uncorked on Friday, March 21 – the ultimate evening experience for mingling while tasting an array of wines paired with savory and sweet treats. Plus, end the night by taking a spin on the dance floor! Visit here to learn more. 

Saturday, March 22: PLAY ME AGAIN PIANO RIBBON CUTTING
Located at The Nook by Regal Cinemas | 2 p.m.
Celebrate the joy of music with Atlantic Station and Play Me Again Pianos, a nonprofit dedicated to placing free public pianos throughout metro Atlanta. Be there for the unveiling of their newest installation, bringing creativity and community together in the Heart of ATL! Stay tuned on atlanticstation.com for more information! 

Throughout March: OVERTIME ELITE GAMES
Located at OTE Arena | Times Vary
Experience thrilling basketball matchups amongst the nation’s top amateur players at Overtime Elite. Launched in 2021, OTE is an alternative option for young players aspiring to make it to the NBA, offering athletes state-of-the-art training facilities, personalized education, media training and more. Throughout the season, experience exciting activities, including special performances, celebrity guests, surprise giveaways and more! See below for the March schedule and purchase tickets here. 
Saturday, March 1 at 5 p.m.
Sunday, March 2 at 3:30 p.m.
Monday, March 3 at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. *if necessary
Wednesday, March 5 at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. *if necessary
Friday, March 7 at 7 p.m.
Saturday, March 8 at 7 p.m.
Thursday, March 13 at 7 p.m.
Friday, March 14 at 7 p.m. *if necessary
Sunday, March 16 at 3 p.m. *if necessary

WINDER SPRING ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL DEBUTS MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND  

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/20/25

Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces Introduces Newest Free, Family-Friendly Festival 

Saturday, May 24 and Sunday, May 25, 2025

Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces is thrilled to introduce the inaugural Winder Spring Arts & Crafts Festival, a new addition to its roster of vibrant arts festivals including award-winning Piedmont Arts Festival, Chastain Park Arts Festival and the Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival. Taking place Memorial Day weekend, Saturday, May 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, May 25, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Jug Tavern Park, this free, two-day outdoor festival will bring together a dynamic mix of painters, sculptors, photographers, crafters, and performers in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Attendees are invited to sip, shop and stroll as they engage with artists, watch live demonstrations, and explore delicious food and drink offerings for all tastes. The Winder Spring Arts & Crafts Festival (139 E. Athens St., Winder, GA 30680) is open to all ages, and leashed dogs are welcome. For more information, visit www.affps.com.

ROSWELL MUSIC FESTIVAL 2025

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/6/25

Roswell Music Festival Returns to Canton Street, April 26, 2025, with Headliner Drivin N Cryin

The highly anticipated Roswell Music Festival is set to return for its third year on Saturday, April 26, 2025, bringing an unforgettable day of live music, community spirit, and celebration to Historic Downtown Roswell. This year’s festival promises an incredible lineup, an expanded VIP experience, and continued philanthropic support for Shepherd’s Men, Hop On A Cure, and Rock for Rescues.

Leading this year’s festival is the legendary Southern rock band Drivin N Cryin, known for their timeless hits and high-energy performances. Joining them on stage will be an eclectic mix of talented artists, including Frankly Scarlet, Canyonland ft. Michelle Malone, Cousin Curtiss, Dock Rock Radio, and Penelope Road. With multiple acts throughout the day, festival goers can expect a dynamic blend of rock, Americana, and jam band sounds that create the perfect festival atmosphere.

Beyond the music, Roswell Music Festival remains committed to giving back to the community. A portion of this year’s proceeds will benefit Shepherd’s Men, an organization dedicated to supporting veterans recovering from traumatic brain injuries and PTSD, Hop On A Cure supporting research to prevent, reverse, and cure ALS, and Rock for Rescues, which provides aid to local animal welfare organizations. By attending, festival guests will not only enjoy an incredible day of music but also contribute to three meaningful causes.

Tickets for the 2025 Roswell Music Festival are now available for purchase via Freshtix (https://www.freshtix.com/events/roswellmusicfestival-2025). Early bird pricing is available through February 23rd, offering General Admission tickets for $35. After this date, General Admission increases to $40, and tickets will be available for $45 at the gate on the day of the festival.

For those looking to enhance their festival experience, a limited number of Variant Brewing VIP tickets are on sale for $150, offering exclusive access to a private tent with premium spirits, comfortable seating, clean, air-conditioned bathroom trailer, catered food by Bask Steakhouse, and the best views of the stage.

Festival Details & FAQs

  • Location: The festival will take place at 37 Magnolia Street, Roswell, GA 30075, in a convenient and vibrant setting adjacent to Rock ‘N’ Taco.
  • Parking: There is ample parking available across Atlanta Street at Roswell City Hall. There are also many church parking lots and street parking spaces available on Mimosa Boulevard between Magnolia Street and Marietta Highway. 
  • Festival Hours: Gates open at 12:00 PM, and the music continues until 10:00 PM.
  • Rain or Shine: The festival will take place regardless of weather conditions. 
  • Family-Friendly Event: Children under 10 can attend for free with a ticketed adult.
  • Accessibility: The festival is ADA-compliant, with accessible entry and restrooms available.
  • Food & Drinks: Craft beer and wine will be available for purchase, and food will be provided by From the Earth Brewing.

Interested vendors and sponsors are invited to join the Roswell Music Festival in bringing this incredible event to life. For sponsorship and vendor opportunities, please contact info@roswellmusicfestival.com.

Don’t miss out on an incredible day of live music, local flavor, and community spirit. Grab your tickets now, spread the word, and get ready to experience Roswell Music Festival 2025!

FEBRUARY FESTIVITIES AT ATLANTIC STATION: CULTURE, CUISINE AND COMMUNITY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 2/1/25

Experience Lively Events in the Heart of Atlanta, Including the Lunar New Year Festival, Hello Kitty Café Truck, Beer, Bourbon and BBQ Festival & So Much More!


Food, festivals, and fan-favorites return this February at Atlantic Station! Celebrate a month full of vibrant activities, the Lunar New Year, and the season of love. Enjoy the dazzling Lunar New Year Lantern Show, catch exciting Overtime Elite basketball games, and indulge at the Beer, Bourbon and BBQ Festival. Whether you’re here for the Hello Kitty Café Truck or a sophisticated high tea at Millennium Gate, Atlantic Station is your ultimate hub for February fun. Plan your visit and make the most of these exciting events in the Heart of ATL!

Atlantic Station’s February Calendar of Events includes:

Through Sunday, Feb. 16: LUNAR NEW YEAR LANTERN SHOW
Located on Atlantic Green | 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. EDT
Experience an enchanting celebration of Lunar New Year featuring lights, music and visuals at the top of every hour from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the Atlantic Green. The nightly show features a beautifully designed “fog” breathing dragon, known as a Chinese symbol of good fortune, emerging from a cloud of fog near Atlantic Green and over 400 red lanterns illuminating the area for a special lantern show to honor the spiritual tradition that celebrates the reunion of loved ones. Visit here to learn more.

Saturday, Feb. 1: LUNAR NEW YEAR FESTIVAL PRESENTED BY LEXUS
Located on Atlantic Green | 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. EDT
Join the Heart of Atlanta in honoring Lunar New Year with a festival full of traditional rituals and fun for the entire family. The festivities include a mesmerizing Lion Dance, a captivating Kung Fu/Tai Chi performance, a symbolic craft station, a flower truck and a reader who will tell you about your year using your Chinese Zodiac sign! Lexus will also be onsite providing custom calligraphy. Visit here to learn more.
Curfew Notice: All youth under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian after 3 p.m. No individuals under 21 are permitted on property after 9 p.m. All guests may be subject to presenting ID to verify age.

Thursday, Feb. 13: GALENTINE’S DAY EVENT
Located on Atlantic Green | 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Celebrate Galentine’s Day with your favorite gals! Atlantic Station will be offering a floral arrangement class on Atlantic Green. Stay tuned on atlanticstation.com for more information!

Saturday, Feb. 15: HELLO KITTY CAFÉ TRUCK
Located at West District Avenue | 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. EDT
The iconic Hello Kitty Café Truck returns to Atlantic Station. Come say hello and pick up some delicious Hello Kitty-themed treats and merch while supplies last! Please note that the Hello Kitty Café Truck accepts only credit and debit card payments. Visit here to learn more.

Sunday, Feb. 16: MILLENNIUM GATE HIGH TEA
Located at Millennium Gate Museum | 12 p.m. & 4 p.m.EDT
Join the Millenium Gate Museum for authentic Valentine’s Day-themed British tea-time 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, Feb. 22: BEER, BOURBON AND BBQ FESTIVAL
Located at Pinnacle Lot | 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. EDT
Indulge in a barbeque feast at the 13th annual Beer, Bourbon and BBQ Festival at the Pinnacle Lot! Spend the day outdoors soaking up the pleasures true Southerners live by – beer, bourbon, barbeque, bacon, biscuits and bluegrass! The VIP early entry begins at noon, while general admission starts at 2 p.m. Tickets include a souvenir glass and, most importantly, all-you-can-taste samples. Visit here to learn more and purchase tickets.

Throughout February: OVERTIME ELITE GAMES
Located at OTE Arena | Times Vary
Experience thrilling basketball matchups amongst the nation’s top amateur players at Overtime Elite. Launched in 2021, OTE is an alternative option for young players aspiring to make it to the NBA, offering athletes state-of-the-art training facilities, personalized education, media training and more. Throughout the season, experience exciting activities, including special performances, celebrity guests, surprise giveaways and more! See below for the February schedule and purchase tickets here.
Saturday, Feb. 1 at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Friday, Feb. 7 at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 8 at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Friday, Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Throughout February: VALENTINE’S DAY DINING
Locations Vary | Times Vary
Atlantic Station’s dining scene is celebrating the month of love with special Valentine’s Day offers you don’t want to miss! Atlantic Grill will have DJ Syrian on Feb. 14 from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., along with $1 off glasses of wine and $4 off bottles. Azotea is hosting a Valentine’s Day popup bar now until Feb. 28 with three festive drink options. Join California Pizza Kitchen from Feb. 10 through Feb. 16 for the sweetest meal for two, including one starter, two entrees and one dessert. During this time, heart-shaped pizzas are also available. Gyu-Kaku is offering prix-fixe courses and a special dessert from Feb. 4 to Feb. 17. HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern has extensive offerings for Galentine’s Day on Feb. 13, a Valentine’s Day celebration with live entertainment on Feb. 14, and Valentine’s Day brunch on Feb. 15 and Feb. 16. Kilwin’s is offering a 10% discount on chocolate covered strawberries preordered by Feb. 12. NaanStop is offering a Valentine’s Day special for two, including an appetizer, two entrees, Basmati rice, samosas and a bottle of wine for $44.99. Stay tuned on atlanticstation.com for a list of full Valentine’s Day dining offers!

RING IN THE YEAR OF THE SNAKE WITH ATLANTIC STATION

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Posted by Liz and Attaway, 1/29/25

Join the Fun at the 5th Annual Lunar New Year Festival Presented by Lexus!

Atlantic Station’s Lunar New Year Festival
Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025 | 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.          
Atlantic Station | Atlantic Green | 1380 Atlantic Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30363
Free | Two hours of complimentary parking in the deck below

Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is traced back to approximately 3,500 years ago and is one of the most significant festivals in Chinese and East Asian cultures to celebrate the start of a new year. The years are marked in cycles of 12, with each year represented by a rotation of animals based on the tale of a “Great Race” of animals by the Jade Emperor. This year, Lunar New Year falls on Wednesday, Jan. 29, making it the Year of the Snake, symbolizing wisdom, transformation and renewal.   

This free event promises a memorable celebration for all to enjoy! Visit here for all the details.

Curfew Notice:
All youth under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian after 3 p.m. No individuals under 21 are permitted on property after 9 p.m. All guests may be subject to presenting ID to verify age.

The fun doesn’t stop there, beginning late January and running through Sunday, Feb. 16, experience an enchanting display of lights, music and visuals at the top of every hour from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the Atlantic Green. The nightly show features a beautifully designed, 90-foot-long dragon with over 25,000 lights, known as a Chinese symbol of good fortune, emerging from a cloud of fog near Atlantic Green and over 400 red lanterns illuminating the area for a special lantern show to honor the spiritual tradition that celebrates the reunion of loved ones. Visit here for more information.

LET CREATIVITY BLOOM AT AFFPS’ 2025 SPRING FESTIVALS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/28/25

Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces 2025 Spring festival line-up.

Spring is in the Air at the Spring Festival on Ponce

Celebrating blooming flowers, sunshine and warmer weather, the annual Spring Festival on Ponce is returning to historic Olmsted Linear Park on Saturday, April 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, April 6, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Presented by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces, festival-goers are invited explore and purchase works from approximately 125 painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metal craft workers, glass blowers, jewelers and more. While taking in the beautiful landscape and charming park, attendees can enjoy an array of local food trucks, beverages, a children’s play area, a DJ, and much more. The event is free to attend, open to all ages, and dogs are welcome. For more information about the Spring Festival on Ponce (1451 Ponce de Leon Avenue N.E., Atlanta, GA 30307), please visit www.festivalonponce.comor www.affps.com.  

Hop Over to Sandy Springs Artsapalooza Easter Weekend 

Sandy Springs Artsapalooza returns on Saturday, April 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The award-winning, free festival features more than 150 painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metal craft makers, glass blowers, jewelers and more. Transforming the tree-lined streets of Sandy Springs into an expansive outdoor art gallery, festival-goers will have the opportunity to view artist demonstrations, participate in hands-on art activities, and enjoy music. The event also has an expansive children’s area and plenty of food trucks and beverages for all tastes. At 2 p.m. on Easter Sunday, the festival is once again hosting the largest Easter Egg Hunt in Sandy Springs with over 10,000 hidden Easter eggs. Kids are asked to arrive early with a small bag or basket. The festival is free to attend, open to all ages, and dogs are welcome. For more information about Sandy Springs Artsapalooza (6100 Lake Forest Dr. NE, Sandy Springs, GA 30328), visit sandyspringsartsapalooza.com or www.affps.com. 

Sip, Shop and Stroll at Roswell Spring Arts Festival 

Kick off the month of May at the Roswell Spring Arts Festival on Saturday, May 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, May 4, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the grounds of Roswell City Hall. Known for its preservation of history, celebration of the arts and cultivation of the entrepreneurial spirit, Roswell is recognized as a family-friendly and enthusiastic art-buying community. A fun and free annual tradition, the two-day outdoor festival will feature approximately 100 painters, photographers, sculptors, metalworkers, glass artists, jewelers and more. Festival goers will also have the opportunity to view artist demonstrations, live acoustic music, dance performances, food trucks with healthy alternatives and more. The festival is open to all ages and dogs are welcome. For more information about the Roswell Spring Arts Festival (38 Hill Street, Roswell, GA 30075) visit www.roswellartfestival.com or  www.affps.com. 

Celebrate Mother’s Day Weekend at Chastain Park Spring Arts Festival

Chastain Park Spring Arts Festival will return to beautiful Chastain Park on Park Drive in Buckhead on Saturday, May 10 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. An ideal destination to bring the family and pups, the award-winning, two-day festival is free to attend and features more than 185 painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metal craft artisans, glass blowers, jewelers and more. Eventgoers are also invited to view artist demonstrations, enjoy live acoustic music, DJs, an expansive children’s area, and food trucks and beverages for all tastes. Chastain Park Spring Arts Festival (4469 Stella Drive, Atlanta, GA 30327) takes place rain or shine and is open to all ages. For more information, please visit www.chastainparkartsfestival.comand www.affps.com.  

Art is in Bloom at the Duluth Spring Arts Festival 

An annual traditional, Duluth Springs Arts Festival will be held on Saturday, May 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The award-winning, two-day, outdoor festival will be held in the fun, vibrant, and culturally diverse City of Duluth, which is home to one of the largest and most enthusiastic art-buying communities in Georgia. Featuring a diverse mix of painters, photographers, sculptors, metalworkers, glass artists, jewelers, and more, festival goers will have the opportunity to explore, shop, view artist demonstrations, and enjoy mouthwatering eats, live music, and much more. The festival is free to attend, open to all ages, and dogs are welcome. For more information about the Duluth Springs Arts Festival (3167 Main Street, Duluth, GA 30096), visit www.duluthartsfestival.com or www.affps.com. 

Spring has Sprung at the Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival 

Join the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces as they celebrate the return of the Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival on Saturday, May 31 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, June 1, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The two-day festival will once again be held in Historic Fourth Ward Park which is conveniently located along the bustling Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail. Festival goers are invited to explore painting, photography, ceramics, glass, jewelry, woodwork and handcrafted items. The festival also features live DJs courtesy of Captains of Revelry, food vendors, drinks, a children’s area, art demonstrations, games, and more. The event is free to attend, open to all ages, and dogs are welcome. For more information about the Sandy Springs Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival (592 N. Angier Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30308), visit www.oldfourthwardparkartsfestival.com or www.affps.com. Stay connected on Facebook at www.facebook.com/OldFourthWardParkArtsFestival.

PANDA FEST DEBUTING IN GEORGIA THIS SPRING FOR A CELEBRATIONOF AAPI FOOD, PERFORMANCE, AND CULTURE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 1/13/24

APRIL 4-6, 2025


Festival Tickets Go on Sale This Wednesday, Jan. 15 at 10 a.m.

Atlanta’s pandas may have had to return to China last year, but panda lovers have something new to look forward to this spring! Panda Fest is bringing an interactive panda-themed food and cultural experience to Atlanta happening April 4-6, 2025! Taking place at Atlantic Station’s Pinnacle Lot, this event is one of the biggest outdoor Asian food festivals in the U.S. featuring experiential activities, tastings, and market fairs that highlight the vibrant foods, arts and cultural traditions across Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) cultures.
 
Panda Fest was created by the founders of Dragon Fest, one of the largest Asian food and culture festivals in the nation. Panda Fest originated as a one-day event called Panda Day, featuring panda-themed foods, activities, games, and raffles. Beloved by many, demand grew, and now, Panda Fest has evolved into a multi-day experience that will be featured in a number of U.S. cities throughout 2025 with Atlanta serving as the first destination outside of New York.
 
“We’re thrilled to bring Panda Fest to the vibrant city of Atlanta,” said BiuBiu Xu, Founder of Panda Fest. “This family-friendly event offers a unique and exciting opportunity for people of all backgrounds to come together and learn about, experience and celebrate AAPI cultures. Along with our amazing vendors traveling from New York to showcase their incredible foods and crafts, we’ll also have local vendors from Atlanta to create a rich and diverse cultural experience. We’re excited to make Panda Fest a memorable event for Atlanta’s dynamic community for years to come.”
 
Panda Fest will take attendees on a culinary journey through Asia, with a lineup of 100+ food stalls and trucks serving over 300 types of delicious cuisine from countries like China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and more. Festivalgoers will also experience a market fair with over 20 vendors selling crafts, clothing, accessories, and other merchandise inspired by Asian culture, including traditional calligraphy art, artisanal t-shirts, and more. Of course, panda-themed items and fun will be on full display throughout the festival, including a massive 15-foot inflatable panda, a panda bounce ring, and vendors offering panda-themed treats and trinkets. Panda Fest will also feature live cultural performances and craft demonstrations, with highlights including lion dance shows, theatrical acts, K-pop dance routines, sugar painting, paper cutting, and more. Those interested in becoming a vendor, sponsor or participant in this year’s Panda Fest can apply here.
 
Tickets for Panda Fest will go on sale on Wednesday, Jan. 15. There will be a limited number of Early Bird tickets available through Sunday, Feb. 9 at 10 p.m. Each ticket will cover admission to the festival, with General Admission tickets including two free gifts (one customized festival pin and an inflatable panda headband) and VIP tickets including access to VIP bathrooms, experiences, a VIP bar, and an additional gift (a festival bag). For more information and to purchase tickets once they go live, visit the Panda Fest website at www.pandafests.com. Stay tuned on the Panda Fest Instagram (@pandafestatlanta) for all the latest information on the festival. Panda Fest is a rain or shine event.

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