Tag Archive for: festival

22ND ANNUAL SUMMER SHADE FESTIVAL RETURNS THIS AUGUST

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/28/24

Free, Family-Friendly Festival in Historic Grant Park Featuring Live Music, an Artist Market, Kids Bouncy House Village, Food Trucks and Much More

Saturday, August 24 and Sunday, August 25, 2024

For over two decades, the Grant Park Conservancy Summer Shade Festival has welcomed music, art, and event enthusiasts to close out summer during two fun-filled days celebrating Atlanta’s oldest park. The 22nd annual Summer Shade Festival will take place on Saturday, August 24, beginning at 10 a.m., and Sunday, August 25, beginning at 10 a.m. Open to all ages and free to attend, this two-day, fun-filled festival will once again feature an impressive lineup of live music throughout the weekend, in addition to an expansive artist market. With two days of family-friendly activities, Kids Bouncy House Village, 5K run, and delicious bites from local food trucks and vendors, there is no better way to end the summer.

On Saturday morning at 8 am, runners, walkers and strollers are invited to kick off the festival at the annual Adams Realtors Run for the Park 5K. Raising funds to support the Grant Park Conservancy, the race starts and finishes at the main entrance of Zoo Atlanta. Pre-registration is now open here. The 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. Additional details about the 2024 festival including the full performer lineup will be announced in the coming months.  To learn more about the Grant Park Conservancy and to make a donation, visit gpconservancy.org/get-involved/support.

 For the most up to date information on this year’s Summer Shade Festival, visit www.summershadefestival.org. Stay connected on Instagram at @grantpark.atlanta and Facebook at facebook.com/SummerShadeFestival. 

Photo: Colin Boddy

SUMMER SHADE 2024 MUSIC LINEUP 

Saturday:

Main Stage: 

12:00 p.m. – Yes Ma’am  
12:55 p.m. – The Judies 1:55 p.m. – Front Porch Session Players
2:50 p.m. – Das Kaiser
3:50 p.m. – Rare Birds
4:45 p.m. – Migrant Worker
6:00 p.m. – Khaliko
7:00 p.m. – Higher Choir
8:40 p.m. – Magnapop

Gazebo:

11:30 a.m. – Fresh Press
1:45 p.m. – Rusty Cars
3:30 p.m. – Chasing the Light  

Sunday:

Main Stage:
12:00 p.m. – Whatever She Is
1:00 p.m. – Jeremy Ray and the Howdy Men
2:05 p.m. – Solid State Radio
3:10 p.m. – Pre Dawn Pours
4:35 p.m. – Rrest
5:45 p.m. – Jackson County Line 

Gazebo:  

11:30 a.m. – Ray Dunlap
1:45 p.m. – Peet Midnight and the Back Taxes

3:30 p.m. – Chasing the Light

26TH ANNUAL NEW SOUTH YOUNG PLAYWRIGHTS FESTIVAL

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/28/24

Aspiring writers to sharpen their skills with week of performances, playwrighting workshops and seminars

Inman Park’s Horizon Theatre is set to host a group of promising young playwrights in its 26th Annual New South Young Playwrights Festival, June 2-8. From a wide pool of script submissions from college students across the country, the theatre company selected 23 aspiring writers to attend the free week-long intensive. The chosen students will be able to flex their creative muscles in a packed week of playwrighting workshops and seminars with professional theatre actors, directors and playwrights.

“The New South Young Playwrights Festival is a treasured tradition for Horizon Theatre,” said Horizon Theatre Co-Artistic/Producing Director Lisa Adler. “We take great pleasure in raising up the next generation of playwrights, and every year we’re blown away by their talent. The future is in good hands with these bright, young minds!”

The lead teaching artists for the Festival this year are professional playwrights and educators Chisa Hutchinson ad Crystal Skillman. ​ Chisa Hutchinson is a playwright and screenwriter who also teaches creative writing at the University of Delaware. ​ Her plays have been produced in NYC and at regional theatres across the country, and she is currently developing a TV Series for Starz. ​ Crystal Skillman, a professor at The New School (NYC) and Pace University, is an internationally acclaimed playwright whose Rain and Zoe Save the World premiered in the UK in 2022 and whose award-winning musical Mary and Max had its sold-out, critically acclaimed premiere at the largest theatre in Austria, Theatre Linz. The Festival is also led by four associate teaching artists who are playwrights currently pursuing their MFAs in playwriting: Peter Chansky (Temple University), Katie Kirk (Carnegie Mellon University), Cameron Noel (University of Illinois at Carbondale) and Julissa Mishay Norment (Temple University).

The 23 winners of the New South Young Playwrights Festival come from colleges nationwide, including: Emerson College (Boston), Wake Forest University (NC), University of Texas-Arlington, Wellesley College, Columbia College Chicago, Bennington College (VT), Dartmouth College, Marymount Manhattan College, Hunter College, Ball State University (IN), University of Georgia, Kennesaw State University, Point Park University (PA), North Carolina School of the Arts, University of Virginia, Palm Beach Atlantic University (FL) and the School of the Arts at Central Gwinnett High School (GA).

As a part of the festival, the students will also be tasked with drafting a new short play to be featured in the 26th Annual New South Young Playwrights Short Play Festival. During the intensive, the plays will be workshopped and rehearsed with professional Atlanta actors taking on the roles. The week will culminate in the New South Young Playwrights Short Play Festival, a public reading and showcase of the students’ work on Saturday, June 8 at 2pm at Horizon Theatre. This NSPF Short Play Festival is free and open to the public. ​ No reservation is required.

For many years, NSYPF has made a positive impact in the lives of high school and undergraduate playwriting students. “This program gave me more playwriting knowledge than a year of playwriting at my school,” reads a comment from a participant from NSYPF 2023. “Being able to form relationships with other people my age and then professionals in the field was incredible. I felt such a sense of community and support and got so much advice that I will carry with me for the rest of my career.”

The Festival is made possible this year by the Molly Blank Fund and by Horizon’s season sponsors: City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, the Fulton County Board of Commissioners, the Georgia Council for the Arts, and The Shubert Foundation. Local restaurant partners providing meals for participants as in-kind support include Barcelona Wine Bar, The Wrecking Bar, Bar Taco, Donnie’s Donuts, Emerald City Bagels and The Albert.

LEAD TEACHING ARTISTS (see bios below):

Chisa Hutchinson (University of Delaware)

Crystal Skillman (The New School and Pace University)

MFA TEACHING ARTISTS:

Peter Chansky (Temple University)

Katie Kirk (Carnegie Mellon University)

Cameron Noel (Southern Illinois University in Carbondale)

Julissa Mishay Norment (Temple University)

PARTICIPANTS:

Ashadé Altine (Wellesley College)

Jess Anoruigwe (University of Texas at Arlington)

Bridget Blanchard (University of Georgia)

Miriam Campbell (Bennington College)

Toni Colbert (University of Texas at Arlington)

Spencer Daniels (Emerson College)

Tomi Fawehinmi (School of the Arts at Central Gwinnett High School)

Ian Gadapee (Palm Beach Atlantic University)

Mando Gonzalvez (Point Park University)

Loey Jones-Perpich (Emerson College)

Myles Keys (Ball State University)

Anna Kraffmiller (Wellesley College)

Eloise Langan (Dartmouth College)

Amari Lewis (Kennesaw State University)

Angel Lin (University of Virginia)

Hamad Naroze (Hunter College)

Hannah Reynolds (Wake Forest University)

Jhonn Rusic (Columbia College Chicago)

Bella Smith (University of Georgia)

Sam Lee Victor (University of North Carolina School of the Arts)

Lain Walls (Marymount Manhattan College)

Emma Winiarski (Emerson College)

Isaac Woon (Hunter College)

RIVAL ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS AN EVENING WITH CAKE AT HISTORIC FOURTH WARD SKATEPARK

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/13/24

The September 28th Event is Part of Big Night Out- a Series of Concerts Under the Stars in Public Spaces

Pre-Sale Tickets Go On Sale Wednesday, May 15 

Atlanta festival producer Rival Entertainment has announced an Evening with CAKE September 28 at the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark. Self-described as Hank Williams Sr. and Sly Stone having a party and playing  AC/DC records backward, CAKE is better known as the antithesis of grunge behind the half-singing/half-speaking lyrics of lead John McCrea, trumpeter Vince DiFiore, guitarist San McCurdy, bassist Daniel McCallum, and drummer Todd Roper. Hits such as “Rock’ n’ Roll Lifestyle,” “The Distance,” the Gloria Gaynor disco classic “I Will Survive,” “Short Skirt/Long Jacket,” and others have fueled the platinum-selling rock outfit past the grunge era to a new wave of fans.

The evening is being presented under Rival Entertainment’s Big Night Out brand- a series of concerts under the stars in public places, which hints at similar events in the future from the acclaimed live event producer. Located at the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark on the Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail, Big Night Out – An Evening with CAKE is encouraging fans to take advantage of the proximity of the venue to several landmarks such as Inman Park (.3 miles), Ponce City Market (.5 miles), Krog Market (.6 miles), and Piedmont Park (1.2 miles). While the event will be walkable for many, there will also be a complimentary bicycle valet, ride-share drop-off locations, and nearby parking.

Pre-Sale General Admission and VIP ticket options for an Evening with CAKE will go on sale Wednesday, May 15, through the band website, www.cakemusic.com. VIP includes front-of-stage pit viewing, a lounge, and comfort amenities. Fans can purchase pre-sale tickets through Rival Entertainment on Thursday, May 16, at Big Night Out. General on sale will be available on Friday, May 17. This is an all-ages event. Free admission for children under seven with a ticketed adult.

Big Night Out – An Evening with CAKE is produced by Rival Entertainment. Visit www.BigNightOut.com for the most up-to-date information. Stay connected on Facebook @RivalEntertainmentATL and Instagram at @RivalEntertainment. Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark is located at 830 Willoughby Way, Atlanta, Georgia.

12TH ANNUAL ATLANTA FRINGE FESTIVAL

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/7/24

The 12th Annual Atlanta Fringe Festival Returns for Live Performances Across Atlanta, June 3-9

Week-long performing arts festival brings together 28 remarkable artist groups and street performers, offers free family-friendly entertainment

The Atlanta Fringe Festival is thrilled to announce its biggest, most ambitious outing yet with 28 performance groups from seven different states and Thailand — presenting live theater, dance, puppetry, comedy, storytelling and more. This year’s festival, which takes place June 3-9, 2024 across seven local venues, will also feature a free performance venue for family-friendly shows and activities; a free outdoor festival featuring Atlanta street performers; a variety benefit featuring local Atlanta talent; and audio artists whose work will be available exclusively on the Atlanta Fringe podcasting network. The festival includes performances to suit every taste, with entertainment taking over venues around Little Five Points, East Atlanta Village and Old Fourth Ward. This year’s traditional and converted performing spaces include 7 Stages, The Marianna at Wrecking Bar Brewpub, Limelight Theater, Metropolitan Studios and Dynamic El Dorado.

“We can honestly say this is one of the most dynamic line-ups we’ve ever hosted,” said Atlanta Fringe Festival Executive Director Diana Brown. “We have put together a group of exceptional artists from across the globe ready to engage audiences for days of eccentric, inspiring performances. It’s overwhelming… but in the best way!”

Per festival tradition, the 28 companies in this year’s lineup were primarily chosen through an unjuried lottery of approximately 100 global submissions. As in years past, the 12th Annual Atlanta Fringe Festival will boast live performances across the theatrical spectrum, from burlesque-based monster cabarets to ensemble comedies, modern dance, puppetry and magicians. Festival artists will be eligible for cash prizes for excellence in various categories as selected by the audience, staff and a panel of judges from the Atlanta arts community.

In addition to the live performance core of the festival, additional programming will include:

  • FREE family-friendly performances at East Atlanta Kids Club starting Saturday, June 8 at 10 a.m.Featuring puppetry, storytelling, games, crafts and more, these performances are appropriate for children ages 0-18.
  • FREE preview performance at 7 Stages on Wednesday, June 5 at 7 p.m. All 28 shows will get three minutes each to wow the audience at 7 Stages, allowing them to get to know the artists. This is usually a standing-room-only event, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early.
  • FREE Atlanta Street Fringe taking placeJune 7-9 around Little 5 Points Village. Street Fringe is a platform dedicated to busking and street performers of all kinds! Activations around Little 5 will allow performers to engage with pedestrians ​ in one of the coolest, quirkiest and most beloved neighborhoods in Atlanta.
  • Benefit Show – Five/5ths of Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure will kick offthe festival Monday, June 3 at 7 p.m. at 7 Stages. By splitting this classic film into five parts and giving the parts to five very different performance groups, we get the most unique (and triumphant) re-telling of all time.

In addition to live performances, the Atlanta Fringe Festival will once again host an audio component: Fringe Audio. The only podcasting network of its kind on the fringe circuit, Fringe Audio will feature pieces of storytelling and radio theater – most of them world premieres – by local and national artists. Streaming at AtlantaFringe.org on May 20, the shows are free, and a $200 cash prize will be offered to the winner of the Critics’ Choice Award, recognizing excellence in podcast production.

Atlanta Fringe Festival 2024 Lineup:

TOURING ARTISTS

Imaginary Podcast Network, Let Me Say This About That – Minneapolis, MN (comedy, improv, cabaret/variety)

Mother Flockers, Flock the Vote – Portland, OR & Los Angeles, CA & Austin, Texas & New York, NY (comedy, performance art)

Botticelli Babes, Botticelli Babes – Johnson City, TN (storytelling)

Rya, The Evolution of Consciousness – Clearwater, FL (dance, musical, performance art)

Bobby Wesley, Liquid Courage – Orlando, FL (comedy, storytelling)

Spotlight Exchange, Dance With Dementia – Taiwan & Hong Kong (drama, performance art, storytelling)

Speakeasy Sirens, IT’S ALIVE! A Monster Burlesque Comedy – Orlando, FL (burlesque, comedy)

Linnea Bond, Heart Ripped Out Twice And So Can You! – Philadelphia, PA (comedy, theater)

Sloan Brettholz, Officer Scott: Too Much Isn’t Enough – New York City, NY (comedy)

Time Machine Blueprints, Time Machine Blueprints: The Show – New York City, NY (comedy, performance art, storytelling)

Hunter Dance Project, Agnes & Agatha – Tallahassee, FL (dance, performance art, theater)

The Winding Sheet Outfit, All We Are Left With Is Hope – Minneapolis, MN (storytelling, theater)

GEORGIA ARTISTS

Forever Standing Productions, Rhythm of Love The Musical – Decatur, GA (drama, musical theater)

Michael Williams, Get Home Safe! – Atlanta, GA (cabaret/variety, drama, comedy, theater)

MerryCat Productions, The Wallpaper – Decatur, GA (drama, theater)

Augustus Graves, Augustus Graves: MINDREADER – Douglasville, GA (magic/mentalism)

Lily Kerrigan, The Lily Show – Atlanta, GA (comedy, standup)

Kate Morales, Água Loves A Monster – Decatur, GA (puppetry, performance art, dance)

Michael Butler, Look At Me! Look At Me! Look At Me!!! – Atlanta, GA (circus, cabaret/variety, burlesque)

The Atlanta Contemporary Dance Company, This Silly Little Game – Atlanta, GA (dance)

Flay’s Anatomy, Flay’s Anatomy – Atlanta, GA (theater, cabaret/variety)

The AU Guys, Get Psyched – Atlanta, GA (improv, comedy)

Sarah Michelson, Dybbrooke – Decatur, GA (drama, theater)

The Assembly of Phantasms, The Masque of the Red Death – Savannah, GA (burlesque, cabaret/variety, theater)

BFG Images, The Game of Chess – Atlanta, GA (comedy, theater)

SobSax, The Elements of Euclid – Atlanta, GA (theater)

Renee Marchol, Well, I Ate – Atlanta, GA (storytelling)

Oldest and Dearest, Mr. Cardboard – Atlanta, GA (comedy, theater, clown)

Follow ATL Fringe on Facebook and Instagram for new announcements, volunteer opportunities and information on upcoming exclusive performances.

CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND AT CHASTAIN PARK SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/6/24

The Award-Winning Festival Features Over 185 Artists, Local Bites, Live Acoustic Music and More

Open to All Ages and Free to Attend on Saturday, May 11, and Sunday, May 12, 2024

Chastain Park Spring Arts Festival will return to beautiful Chastain Park on Park Drive in Buckhead on Saturday, May 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12, 2024, 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.com and www.affps.com. 

SHAKY KNEES 2024 DAY 3 – THE DOWNPOUR

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/6/24

If you have never seen a rock show in the rain, you’re missing out. Today was all about one of John’s favorite bands, Dinosaur Jr.  

First off, we caught a newer band we had not heard of until the festival, Arcy Drive. They are out of New York with a mash-up of varieties of sounds like indie, 90s fast slow, two-step, and singsong talking and singing mix. Not all at the same time, for example one song would be songs that are softer almost ballad-like that erupt into heavy guitar for the chorus. Then, the next song would be a rock song with more of a southern twang and have some two-step influence. I enjoyed lead singer Nick Mateyunas’ voice, it is smooth yet gritty. The one we really like is called Wicked Styley, which is the one they started with. It is a fun upbeat rock song with lots of 90’s influence and reverb. 

The Downpour. About 5 minutes before Dinosaur Jr. went on the Ponce De Leon stage, the skies opened up and a torrential downpour started and lasted for almost the entire set. People were caught in the rain, and it was so much that even us with ponchos got pretty soaked. Especially our feet in ankle deep water near the front of the stage flowing into the crowd. No one seemed to mind too much and it actually electrified the audience. John quipped at one point, “it’s like we’re back in the 90’s.” And he was right, the energy from the crowd was noticeably high! They even broke out into mosh pits and a sea of crowd surfers dotted the front. It was a sight to behold! Plus, the music had a lot to do with the mood! If you don’t know Dinosaur Jr, they are what I call hard skate rock. Something I imagine skaters on their boards would listen to in their ear buds. Songs like Feel the Pain and Over It are melodious with heavy guitar and just plain fun. Plus, the covered The Cure, “Just Like Heaven.” It was a great show. 

After our Dinosaur Jr. experience, we headed back over to see Billy Idol and found the main stage to be a mud bog. People without shoes dancing in the sprinkles, drenched friends with smiles on their faces. We saw him back in 2015 during Music Midtown and his show has always been top notch! Billy Idol is always a good time singing greats like White Wedding, Rebel Yell, and Cradle of Love that anyone will sing and dance with. Visually, he had some fun LED graphics and seems to have not aged a bit and still sounds really good live! He even took his Billy Idol shirt off and threw it in the crowd.  

I’m just going to come right out and say it, we left before Foo Fighters. We’d seen them before, and the weather had made the main stage too muddy. Plus, we had stood in ankle high water for an hour, so our feet were wet, and we had a long weekend. We will catch them next time.  

Did you have a favorite Shaky moment? 

SHAKY KNEES 2024 DAY 2

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

Photo Dusana Risovic

With bands like Sunny Day Real Estate, Offspring, Queens of the Stone Age, and one of my favorites of all time Weezer. Day 2 had it all. Here’s a short recap. 

Starting with the newer bands, we heard both Microwave and Dead Poets Society. Microwave is out of Atlanta, which I didn’t know, and has a variety of sounds from loud, hard rock to 90’s fast slow, and then some punk. The other was Dead Poet’s Society out of Boston that had hard riffs that reminded me of Rob/White Zombie up front, thrash, but then the vocals come in softer and higher for a fun mix of sounds. I like that Jack Underkofler, the lead singer, fell into the crowd and crowd surfed while singing one of the first songs.  

On to the 90’s bands we love, first we actually had to miss Offspring because we had never seen Sunny Day Real Estate and we’re going to spend time with a band that we hadn’t seen. We love Offspring, I saw them back in 1994 and heard they did an incredible show. That brings us to Sunny Day Real Estate. They are one of those 90’s bands that I just got introduced to by a friend a few years ago and we started watching their videos on YouTube. I call them the quintessential fast slow early 90’s band. Melodious verses and vocals erupt into a barrage of heavy guitar and pounding drums, Sunny Day Real Estate satisfies song after song. Tour t-shirt purchased! More to come in our review. 

Have you ever found yourself driving too fast on the interstate? You might have been listening to Queens of the Stone Age. What I call fast driving music, Queens of the Stone Age are very drum forward with deep and heavy beats, beautiful guitar riffs and Josh Homme’s great voice. Plus, they visually never disappoint, this year with roaming light show. Last time we saw them they had a large video board with led visuals that really went well with the music. Did you know Dave Grohl (Nirvana, Foo Fighters) also did the drums on “No One Knows?” which you can tell by the drums! But my favorite of their songs after last night is “Go with the flow.” I always liked it but realized it is more diverse musically than some of the others.  

My boyfriend back in 1994 gave me a non-descript bright blue album as a present. Little did I know that that album would be in my top 5 all-time records, and Weezer would cement themselves into rock god status in my life. I’ve seen Weezer over the years from them playing large festivals to arenas to a small stage at the Braves stadium and they always sound perfect. What I call garage or college rock, Weezer has a distinct sound that no one else can create and that sets them apart from some of the other 90’s bands, don’t get me wrong, I love most early 90’s bands! The underlying hum of the guitars, explosions of rock juxtaposing the smoothness or River’s voice, it all comes together completely. What I love about them live is they really play up the guitar and show their musical prowess, plus, visually, they always have their W front and center. If you’ve never seen them live, you must; it is an experience.  

We didn’t make it to liquid death’s activation, it is on our to do list for today. We’re excited about Dinosaur Jr, Billy Idol, and Foo Fighters today. It’s going to be hot, so wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water. 

SHAKY KNEES 2024 DAY 1

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/4/24

Photo by Roger Ho.

With acts like Weezer and Foo Fighters, this year’s Shaky Knees spoke to my Gen X heart. Here’s our day one recap with our favorite new bands, artist moments, and everything in between.

Something we’re highlighting this Shaky Knees beyond the stout 90’s band line-up are the new bands that we catch. The first one is Ax and the Hatchetmen, a young indie 7-piece out of Chicago with tons of energetic big band, funky, rocky, and beachy all rolled into one fun time. A great show! They had a wonderful artist moment, handing out water with a QR code to their newest song, “Flagstaff” that they performed live and came out yesterday! Another band that we hadn’t seen is and enjoyed is Late Night Drive Home out of Texas. The lead singer, Andre Patillo, came out with a red mak on that had frills at the bottom. They’re a blend of punk, rock, 90s with swelling choruses. We loved they sang Blur, “Song No. 2.”

Our favorite of the bands we know is Metric out of Canada. A band that played on 99x back in the day, and that I know probably 5 songs from was thoroughly enjoyable. Emily Haines, the lead singer, came out in a bright red shinny body suit. If you know Metric, they are heavy into electronic and keyboard, yet rock and 80s infused. Reminiscent of Garbage to me, “Help I’m Alive,” was the highlight for me. I hadn’t heard it live and it was my favorite of their music then and now.

We also caught Interpol and Arcade Fire, two bands I had not seen live. Arcade Fire puts on a spectacle of a show with tons of light and movement, and loved the horizon and sunset/sunrise visuals of the performance. Interpol had black and white on the big screens, they’re very controled yet upbeat rock and smooth lyrics all encased in a European rock sound.

It wouldn’t be a large music festival without festival polls, our favorite was the blown up stick of butter. Plus, we were blown away by the Doordash food court with some great Atlanta and regional restaurants like Hattie Bs. Today we are going to explore the most elaborate activation I’ve ever seen, Liquid Death. We will report back.

Who is ready for day 2? John and I are super excited for Sunny Day Real Estate today! We hope the Thunderstorms stay away.

This is just a snapshot of day 1. A full article and review of bands to come.

CINCO DE MAYO 2024

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/24/24

ATLANTA HOTSPOTS RAMP UP FOR MULTI-DAY CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATIONS

Restaurants Mark the Festive Holiday with Authentic Dishes and Food and Drink Specials

Chido & Padre’s: A Culinary Celebration

Chido & Padre’s, the go-to destination for those seeking an authentic Mexican dining experience, is throwing a culinary fiesta for Cinco de Mayo. The festivities are doubled with celebrations on Saturday, May 4, and Sunday, May 5. Starting at 11 a.m. and stretching into the late night, Chido & Padre’s offers an array of chef-driven Mexican dishes that are as delightful as they are diverse. Guests are invited to sip on killer margaritas and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Buckhead’s hottest patio. It’s the perfect place to unwind and celebrate in style.

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern joins with Eclipse di Luna for the Ultimate Cinco de Mayo Weekend Bash

HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern in Halcyon is joining forces with neighbor Eclipse di Luna to host a lively Cinco de Mayo celebration over the May 4-5 weekend. Promising a festive blend of music, cuisine, and culture, the event stretches from Saturday afternoon until Sunday night, transforming the shared outdoor green space into a festival arena. On Saturday, attendees can sway to the Latin rhythms of Orquesta Macuba, and on Sunday, the C.O.T. Band takes the stage, complemented by some of Atlanta’s finest Latin DJs. In a culinary twist, HOBNOB steps up with a signature pig roast featuring tacos or plates adorned with charred peppers and roasted pineapple salsa. Eclipse di Luna will serve its renowned paella straight from a massive grill alongside tantalizing tacos, quesadillas, and chips with queso. Guests can quench their thirst at satellite bars offering an assortment of beverages, including mojitos, margaritas, Palomas, Cantaritos, and adult snow cones. Guests can stay late on Sunday for a special Tex-Mex version of Boots & Buckles line dancing upstairs at HOBNOB. HOBNOB welcomes walk-ins and reservations online.

Marlow’s Tavern Mixes Up Cinco de Mayo with Creative Margaritas

Marlow’s Tavern sets the bar high this Cinco de Mayo with a trio of uniquely crafted margaritas. Sip on the refreshing Watermelon Margarita Splash, a blend of Don Cosme Blanco tequila, jalapeño, fresh watermelon, lime juice, and agave nectar, perfect for those looking to cool down with a spicy-sweet kick. For a lighter option, the Skinny Ginger Margarita combines Herradura Silver tequila with Greenbar Ginger, fresh lime, and agave, offering a zesty and invigorating flavor. Not to be missed, the Blood Orange-Rita features Olmeca Altos Reposado tequila with blood orange and a special chili honey syrup, creating a bold and tangy experience that tantalizes the taste buds.

Tin Lizzy’s: Five Days of Festivities

Tin Lizzy’s Cantina invites guests for a five-day fiesta from May 1 to 5. Known for its lively atmosphere, Tin Lizzy’s is going all out this year with “Cinco Days of Cinco.” Revelers will get in the festive spirit with $7 el Jimador margaritas, perfect for toasting to good times. Beer lovers can enjoy $4 Dos Equis drafts or opt for $4 cans of Tecate if they prefer a classic canned beer experience. All locations open at 11 a.m.

Your 3rd Spot Delivers a Festive Fusion of Flavor and Fun

Your 3rd Spot invites guests to join the Cinco de Mayo celebration from 1-11 p.m. when sophistication and excitement merge into a festive extravaganza. Early birds can take advantage of a special entry fee of just $5 for the first hour with reservations. With regular admission, guests will get cinco hours of unlimited access to explore up to 85 unique and thrilling experiences ranging from games to interactive entertainment, with bowling available at just $5 a game per person. Chef Stuart Rogers will offer delectable street tacos, empanadas, and other creations that satisfy any palate. Your 3rd Spot will also serve its Tr33quilla sampler featuring four unique 100% blue agave tequilas and handcrafted Y3S margaritas at the dedicated margarita station on the patio. As the sun sets, guests can get into the groove with a DJ, the perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday. Guests can extend the day of celebration by stopping at Chicheria MX Kitchen at The Works, where showing your special card will get you half-price admission. Reservations are available online.

CELEBRATE CINCO DE MAYO ALL WEEKEND LONG AT AZOTEA CANTINA AND TACOS & TEQUILAS MEXICAN GRILL

La Bonanza Hospitality Group Serves Up Fresh Margaritas, Live Music, and Giveaways

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Azotea Cantina on The Green at Atlantic Station and all Tacos & Tequilas Mexican Grill locations. Both modern-day, Mexican-influenced restaurants are part of the La Bonanza Group. As tradition has it, throw the biggest and best Cinco de Mayo celebrations in and around Atlanta. This year, the family-friendly celebrations kick off on Friday at 11:00 am and last all weekend through Sunday evening.


How did Cinco de Mayo begin? In the mid-20th-century United States, the celebration of Cinco de Mayo became among Mexican immigrants a way of encouraging pride in their Mexican heritage. How do we celebrate in the United States? With margaritas and music, of course!

Azotea Cantina
A special fair-themed celebration on The Green at Atlantic Station from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm
On The Green, Azotea Cantina will host two food trucks, Tacos & Tequila and Fair on Wheels. Fair on Wheels will feature fun fair foods such as funnel cake fries and corn dogs, while Tacos & Tequila’s menu will be full of Mexican- style tacos and frozen and house-made margaritas.

Entertainment on The Green includes a live Mariachi band that will appear on the big screen, face paint, balloons, and more!
T-shirt giveaway on Sunday only–until they run out!

Tote bag giveaway — until they run out!

Inside, the Azotea Cantina bar team will serve House-made margaritas for $9, tequila shots for $7, and more!


All weekend, Latin sounds via a live DJ on the Azotea Cantina rooftop


Tacos & Tequilas Mexican Grill
Multiple Locations.
● House-made Texas margarita $8 and tequila shots $7
● Outdoor satellite bars
● T-shirt & collectible swag giveaway Sunday only– until they run out
● Latin sounds via a live DJ all weekend long

TWO urban licks and Alma Del Jaguar Tequila Tasting 

Get a jumpstart on Cinco de Mayo at TWO urban licks’ Alma Del Jaguar Tequila Dinner on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., Alma Del Jaguar’s founder McCauley Williams will guide tequila enthusiasts through a special tasting at the BeltLine dining institution on its expansive patio. Joining forces with TWO’s Executive Chef Chad Clevenger, guests will explore two tastings of specialty tequilas and two craft cocktails along with mouthwatering pairings including Pork Belly Pintxos with habanero tepache lacquer and wood-fired pineapple salsa, Fresh Corn and Black Truffle Tamales, and the hearty Georgia Wagyu Bavette with beef cheek sope, tallow masa, puffed beef tendon, mole chichilo, and ramps. For ages 21 and up, tickets to attend TWO urban licks’ Alma Del Jaguar Tequila Dinner are $65 per person. To make a reservation or for more information, call 404.522.4622 or visit  twourbanlicks.com. TWO urban licks is located in the Old Fourth Ward at 820 Ralph McGill Blvd. Atlanta, GA 30306. Stay connected on Instagram and Facebook at @TwoUrbanLicks. 

Go Loco at Gezzo’s Mexican Street Fiesta in Honor of Cinco de Mayo 

Head to Gezzo’s Cinco de Mayo weekend for a two-day Mexican Street Fiesta featuring delicious food, drinks, live music and more. Beginning at 6 p.m., on Saturday, May 4th, and Sunday, May 5th, the Westside coastal cantina will transform into a high-energy street party complete with handmade tortillas and fresh tacos served straight from their taco stand while Canelita Sabrosa Band provides the soundtrack for a night of dancing and fun. Whether taking it easy in the Tiki Lounge on the swing beds with a margarita in hand or indulging in their flavorful menu filled with favorites for all tastes including burritos, quesadillas, tacos, rice bowls and more. Gezzo’s Cinco de Mayo Mexican Street Fiesta is free to attend. RSVP online at www.gezzos.com/event-details/cinco-de-mayo-celebration-2024-05-04-18-00. For more information, visit www.gezzos.com/cantina or call (470) 427-3057. Gezzo’s welcomes guests from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesdays through Thursdays, extending to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays. Gezzo’s Coastal Cantina is located at 2260 Marietta Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318.

Vesper Serves up Margaritas and Street Tacos For Cinco De Mayo

Grab the limes and salt; it’s almost Cinco de Mayo! Revelers can celebrate all night long at Vesper on Sunday, May 5, 2024. Beginning at 5 p.m., sip on specialty and signature limey libations such as the Atkins Margarita, packed with a kick of tanteo jalapeño & habanero infused tequila, bravo orange curaçao, house-made sour mix & lime with a salt rim, or opt for the non-alcoholic Bonito with Ritual’s zero-proof tequila. Bite into authentic street tacos alongside new and old friends alike while the Glenwood Park cocktail bar ensures everyone has an unforgettable fiesta Sunday. A local favorite, Vesper is tucked away in Glenwood Park at 924 Garrett St. Suite D, Atlanta, GA 30316. For more information, visit www.vesperatl.com or call 404.963.6902. Stay connected on Facebook and Instagram at @vesperatl. 

Shake Things Up This Cinco de Mayo at Puttshack 

Bring on the tacos and tequila, and let the Cinco de Mayo celebrations commence! There are plenty of great spots to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Atlanta this year, and Puttshack is one of the best. Whether looking to enjoy mouthwatering margaritas after a few rounds or just there for the party, guests can get in the spirit of Cinco de Mayo with a high-energy fiesta on Puttshack’s terrace with a live DJ from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 4th and Sunday, May 5th. Shake things up with Puttshack’s Spiced Pineapple Mezcal Margarita, or keep it classy with their Ultimate Top Shelf Margarita. Puttshack is open on Cinco de Mayo from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. for holiday festivities all day and night. Puttshack Atlanta is located at 1115 Howell Mill Rd. Atlanta, GA 30318. For more information, please call 404.738.7888 or visit puttshack.com. Stay connected on Instagram & Twitter @Puttshack. 

Birdcage Hosts Free Cinco de Mayo Block Party 

One tequila, two tequila, three tequila, four! Birdcage  is gearing up for a festive block party on Sunday, May 5th, 2024, in honor of Cinco De Mayo. Beginning at noon, the blocked-off parking lot to the vibrant Grant Park Latin-inspired haunt will transform into a sun-soaked fiesta. With swift counter service at the roll-up windows, guests are invited to indulge in a specialty menu created by Executive Chef Shaun Whitmer featuring Citrus Adobo Chicken, Chicken Tinga Tacos, street corn, tofu tacos and more. An outdoor walk-up bar will be serving refreshing options like Dos XX, Tecate, House Margaritas, Premium Herdura Margaritas and more. To take the party up a notch, Birdcage will have a live DJ, interactive games and more surprises in store. Birdcage’s Cinco de Mayo Block Party is from 12 p.m. until 9 p.m. and free to attend. Birdcage is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week and is located at 519 Memorial Drive SE, Suite E1, Atlanta, GA 30312. For more information, visit birdcageatl.com. Stay connected on Instagram.com at @birdcageatl. 

Sat., May 4 & Sun., May 5 – El Super Pan Celebrates Cinco de Mayo

This weekend, El Super Pan at Ponce City Market and The Battery will both be offering a selection of honorary food and drink specials in celebration of Cinco de Mayo! Weekend specials include:

  • El Super Pan at Ponce City Market:
  • $8 Palomas – Blanco tequila, grapefruit Jarritos & Campari
  • $8 Mango Margaritas – Blanco tequila, Chinola mango & lime
  • $12 Chicken Pozole
  • El Super Pan at The Battery
  • $8 Palomas – Blanco tequila, grapefruit Jarritos & Campari
  • $8 Mango Margaritas – Blanco tequila, Chinola mango & lime
  • 3 for $10 Tacos – Asada, Carnitas & Pollo

Sat., May 4, 11am-9pm – Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with El Burro Pollo’s Outdoor Taquiza

Bottoms up! El Burro Pollo is ringing in Cinco de Mayo (one day early!) with $3 tacos de asada, $6 tecate, tecate with a tequila shot for $10 and flavorful margaritas for just $7.50. Specials available on Saturday, May 4 only, from 11am to 9pm.

ART IS IN BLOOM AT THE DULUTH SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/24/24

Two-Day Arts Festival Featuring Local Art, Live Music, Delicious Bites and More

Free to Attend and Open to All Ages on Saturday, April 27, and Sunday, April 28, 2024

An annual traditional, Duluth Springs Arts Festival will be held on Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, April 28, 2024, 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.