Tag Archive for: party

IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME FOR A BEER! WESTSIDE MOTOR LOUNGE PRESENTS WESTSIDE SLEIGH RIDE, NOVEMBER 30 – DECEMBER 31

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/11/24

The Immersive Holiday Pop-Up Experience Returns, Featuring Special DJ Performances, Live Music, Disco Santa, Dancing Elves, Grinch Dance-Off, Holiday Cocktails and More

Westside Motor Lounge’s West Bar Available for Private Parties


The holiday season just got a whole lot merrier as Westside Motor Lounge returns with its immersive holiday pop-up experience—Westside Sleigh Ride. Beginning Saturday, November 30th, and running through December 31st, this festive extravaganza is the ultimate destination for holiday fun in Atlanta. With cozy fire pits, seasonal cocktails, pop-up food vendors, and an entertainment lineup filled with DJs and live performances, Westside Sleigh Ride is the perfect destination for holiday cheer, whether celebrating with family or escaping them. This year’s festivities include everything from live DJ sets and music to special appearances by Disco Santa, dancing elves, and even a Grinch Dance-Off for those looking to stir up a little holiday mischief. 


Westside Motor Lounge’s West Bar is also available for private party bookings throughout the holiday season. The space accommodates 30 to 60 guests, offering a dedicated bartender, tunes, and TVs, with both indoor and outdoor seating. For booking details, email events@westsidemotorlounge.com. Larger parties can be accommodated upon request.


These not-so-silent nights, and every night of Westside Sleigh Ride, will be happening Wednesdays through Sundays, from 5 pm until midnight on weekdays and 12 pm until midnight on weekends, beginning November 30, 2024. Westside Motor Lounge is located at 725 Echo St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318. For more information, visit www.westsidemotorlounge.com or call 678-388-9536. Stay connected on Instagram at www.instagram.com/westside_motor_lounge and Facebook at  www.facebook.com/westsidemotorlounge. 

CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN AT THE OFFICE BAR’S BOO’S BASH

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 10/11/24

Get in the spooky spirit with festive drinks, cocktail specials, live music and more

 Join The Office Bar in Midtown Atlanta on Thursday, Oct. 31 from 5 to 9 p.m. for a spooktacular Halloween Boo’s Bash! The Midtown community is invited to enjoy festive cocktails, scary good drink specials, live music and so much more. Guests are encouraged to wear their best Halloween costumes to receive a complimentary house wine or beer.

New to the menu, The Office Bar is serving up the “Bad Brains” cocktail, featuring a mix of vodka, lime juice, house-made grenadine and a splash of Bailey’s Irish Cream, and the Officeween Burger, featuring a double beef patty, american cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomato, honey and roasted pepper mayo on a black brioche bun served with sweet potato fries on the side. The Officeween Burger is available throughout October while the “Bad Brains” cocktail is exclusively served from Oct. 25 to 31. Reservations for Boo’s Bash are not required and seating is first come, first serve. 

To learn more about The Office Bar and to view the full menu, visit the website.

SLAW HALLOWEEN BRAWL 2024

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/12/24

GLOW-like Charity Benefit Embraces Cosplay for a Cause

(Atlanta, Georgia) With glitz and glam, SLAW – Southern Ladies Arm Wrestling will hold their Halloween Brawl on October 19th at Wild Heaven West End Brewery & Gardens.

Essentially, the show is like GLOW, but with arm wrestling. 8 ladies compete in full wrestling persona costumes for charity, with one contestant winning the MVP award for raising the most money for the cause, and one contestant winning a championship belt for being the top arm wrestler. The audience trades in their ticketed donation at entry for “SLAW Bucks”, a Monopoly-like currency that they use to bid on which wrestler they think will win. SLAW raised $5,000 in gross proceeds at our first event for Project Safe, an anti-domestic violence charity, and plan on future events for 2024/2025 to be larger scale. With contestants of all walks of life, SLAW embraces a spirit of fun, collaboration, and levity.


Having recently performed at Dragoncon, SLAW’s hype band Vision Video will be playing 80’s-00’s pop song covers as the wrestlers’ introduction music. Led by Dusty Gannon (aka Goth Dad), the goth rock band is high-energy and pays homage to horror. SLAW spotlights Georgia businesses with sponsorships from Topo Chico, Wild Heaven Beer, M3 Yoga, Odyssey Jiu-Jitsu, Good Word Brewing, and others. 


Each event benefits a different women-initiated and women’s causes charity. The October 19th beneficiary is the Southeast Coalition of Psychedelic Practitioners, a female-founded non-profit that serves 4 million veterans with PTSD in the South across six states (please see below for statistics regarding the services they provide).

SLAW is based on an event in the founder’s hometown of Charlottesville, VA that has been running for over 15 years and raised over $100,000 for charity. “It meant the absolute world to me, especially in 2016/2017, to see the city come out in droves and be able to cheer on women at an event that was lighthearted and fun on its face, but directly supported local charities for causes that were suddenly in danger of being upended in our society at large. You could feel an electricity, it gave a lot of people an outlet and way to feel impactful,” Gentry said. “We want this to be a really fun cause that is about just empowering women and making them feel strong and seen, and just to have a great time. It’s supposed to be a friendly environment that’s really approachable. We want people to be proud of the hand they had in helping a local charity.”

Veteran PTSD Assistance Statistics:

13 million people in the US have PTSD, and tend to be co-diagnosed with depressive and/or anxiety disorders. PTSD radiates laterally in families, and forward in generations (most veterans come from military families that have served, affecting multigenerational trauma), and veteran suicides were reported in 2023 to have risen by 25%. 

MDMA-AT (Assisted Therapy) has been submitted to the FDA for approval with research showing an 86% efficacy in PTSD treatment. There are minimal side effects and are effective when antidepressants haven’t worked for many clients. 89% of participants in Ketamine assisted therapy sessions reported improvement in their depression and anxiety symptoms after 4 sessions, and 62% no longer reported suicidal ideation. It will likely be approved for medicinal purposes at the federal level by the end of 2024.

Insurance will not cover these treatments, and the cost is exorbitant. The South is among the lowest areas of economic status in the country, and those with PTSD often have difficulty with job security, relationships, community support, and stability. The Southeast Coalition of Psychedelic Practitioners helps raise and distribute funds for those seeking clinical therapy, with 80% of the pooled funds funneled to the financial cost of individual psychedelic-assisted therapy, and 20% to be provided to therapists seeking assistance with training that facilitates psychedelic-assisted therapy. Types of training include but are not limited to: Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Somatic-Informed Therapy models, and Trauma-Informed Therapy models. 

WILD HEAVEN BEER HOSTS FUNKTOBERFEST TO CELEBRATE THE WEST END’S FIFTH ANNIVERSARY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 9/9/24

Join the Party and Enjoy Groovy Music, Funky Brews and Exciting Surprises 

Saturday, September 21, 2024

Nothing screams “Happy Birthday” like an all-out bash, and Wild Heaven Beer is pulling out all the stops as it celebrates five fantastic years on Atlanta’s West End. On Saturday, September 21st, Wild Heaven West End is throwing the ultimate Funktoberfest— a heartfelt celebration to thank their West End community with top-notch brews, irresistible beats, and unbeatable vibes. Kicking off the festivities, Clutch Co. is bringing the funk with a special market for guests to shop and enjoy sound stylings from a live DJ and sax player from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. This free-to-attend event will also feature electrifying live music from a stellar lineup of artists, including The Compartmentalizationalists and Solid State Radio. For beer aficionados and casual sippers, there will be plenty of brews to rave about, including seriously funky beer specials; explorers can indulge in $15 flights of five beers, sampling Wild Heaven’s finest creations. To top it all off, Wild Heaven has a big surprise on tap— the release of two new special beers bound to delight. Catch the excitement at this epic celebration of five years of West End charm at Wild Heaven. Wild Heaven Beer West End is at 1010 White St SW, Atlanta, GA 30310. Stay connected on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beerwildheaven or on Instagram at @wildheavenwestend.     

THE GEORGIA CHAPTER OF THE NATIONAL MS SOCIETY PRESENTS: 2024 TASTE OF GENEROSITY: BOURBON + BOTANICALS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/15/24

Experience an Evening of Exceptional Spirits and Fundraising for a Cure: Tickets On Sale Now
Celebrate This Year’s Honorary Chair Dr. Ben Thrower Alongside 2024 Honorees Téa Hayes
and the Late Barry Bailey


Friday, Aug. 16 | Doors Open at 6 p.m., Official programming begins at 8:15 p.m. 
The Stave Room and ASW Whiskey Exchange | 199 Armour Dr. NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
VIP + General Tickets are on sale now. Visit the website for details + full event schedule. 



 The National MS Society is thrilled to present the 2024 Taste of Generosity: Bourbon + Botanicals in partnership with the beautiful and unique Stave Room and ASW Whiskey Exchange. Scheduled for Friday, Aug. 16, 2024, the event invites beverage lovers to gather and savor a wide range of distinct bourbons, botanical liquors, wines, beers and innovative zero-proof options. Taste of Generosity: Atlanta is not just a celebration of fine spirits – it’s a gathering with a purpose. Every dollar spent at the event will go towards powering cutting-edge research, advocating for change, and providing essential programs to enhance the lives of those affected by multiple sclerosis.

As ticketholders step into the Stave Room, they will be greeted by 18-foot ceilings and polished concrete floors that contribute to an ambiance of refined yet rustic urban charm. Inside, guests can explore the fully functioning, award-winning distillery while indulging in a full-service tasting room brimming with a variety of spirits and meticulously crafted cocktails and mocktails. Along the tasting trails, attendees can savor delicious, Southern-inspired food pairings designed to elevate their tasting experience. The event will also feature a bottle pull with the chance to win exclusive wines and liquors, exciting silent and live auctions with offerings from Atlanta United, local distilleries and more, all to support the Georgia Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

The event is co-chaired by Tara Murphy, an inspiring leader living with MS and the owner of the award-winning PR firm 360 Media and publisher of The Atlanta 100 who brings her passion and expertise to ensure a memorable evening. Beginning at 8:15 p.m., guests will gather to celebrate this year’s Honorary Chair, Dr. Ben Thrower, a renowned neurologist and Medical Director at the Andrew C. Carlos MS Institute at Shepherd Center. The evening will also honor Téa Hayes, a vibrant former Atlanta Falcons cheerleader living with MS, and the late Barry Bailey, the former lead guitarist for Atlanta Rhythm Section who lived with MS.

“I am honored and humbled to serve as the Honorary Chair for this event,” said Thrower. “For decades, the Andrew C. Carlos MS Institute at Shepherd Center has partnered with the Georgia Chapter of the National MS Society in serving our MS community. Through events like this, we will continue to improve the lives of those living with MS and move one step closer to a cure. Doing so through an evening of bourbon, food and music is the perfect blend of flavor and philanthropy.”

Guests attending the event can choose from various ticket levels, including ASW VIP+, VIP and Classic Admission, each offering different perks for early entry and access to unique tasting trails. With Classic Admission, guests will experience an unforgettable night on the Classic Tasting Trail, with the opportunity to sample a diverse selection of exceptional bourbons, wines and liquors from distinguished partners such as Longleaf distillery, Four Roses Bourbon, Wyoming Whiskey and more. For beer enthusiasts craft brews from Monday Night Brewing will be available to savor. VIP guests will enjoy all the delights of the Classic Tasting Trail, with the added privilege of sampling rare and special pours from distinguished partners like World Whiskey Society, Palm Bay International, Shortbarrel and Old Fourth Distillery. Plus, all ticketholders will receive a souvenir branded tasting cup to commemorate the experience.

The Barrel Proof presenting sponsors, Accenture and RNDC, have provided generous support instrumental in making this event possible. Visit the website for more information and to purchase tickets today.  

About The National Multiple Sclerosis Society: The National MS Society, founded in 1946, is the global leader of a growing movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS. The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives. Connect to learn more and get involved: NationalMSsociety.org, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube or call 800-344-4867. 

WHITE OAK DRAGON CON PARADE PATIO PARTY 2024

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/9/24

White Oak

Saturday, August 31 9am to 11:30 am

Science fiction fanatics, superhero junkies, and avid comic book readers alike are invited to don their favorite cosplay attire during a special Dragon Con Parade Patio Party at White Oak on Saturday, August 31st from 9am to 11:30am. Located in the heart of Downtown Atlanta on Peachtree Street, the patio party will feature a premium parade view! You will enjoy mouthwatering passed appetizers and two alcoholic drink tickets for $75 pre-sale, $85 at the door. Pre-sale tickets are available on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dragon-con-parade-patio-party-tickets-676124024157?aff=oddtdtcreator

AUGUST IS IN ACTION AT THE WORKS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/9/24

Enjoy pet-friendly fun, tequila tastings, a luau party and more

Savor the last few weeks of summer by enjoying live music, exclusive specials, music bingo, National Lemonade Day, kid and pet-friendly activities and more. Start the month with your four-legged friends for a splashing good time at Slip n’ Slide Saturday and Saturday Night Serenade, all at Fetch Park. Try something new this month with tequila tastings, oyster specials, luau-themed cocktails and more. End the month ​​celebrating the rich culinary traditions of the Pacific coast with Chefs Miguel Villamil and Alejandro Tamez at Chicheria Mexican Kitchen. There is something for everyone to enjoy this month at The Upper Westside’s largest mixed-use gathering destination!

The full August events lineup is outlined below:

Chattahoochee Food Works: Farmers Market

Sundays in Aug. from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Grab your crew and check out the Farmers Market at Chattahoochee Food Works! Shop a variety of locally grown fresh produce to take home and make a gourmet meal. After shopping, grab your favorite beer from Dr. Scofflaw’s Brewing or indulge in a tasty treat from one of the many food stalls at Chattahoochee Food Works. For more information, visit https://theworksatl.com/event/cfw-farmers-market-aug-4/.

Sunday FUNKdays

Sundays in Aug. from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Gather your friends and join us on Sunday afternoons for live DJ sets at The Camp from 2 to 5 p.m.! Grab a beverage from Dr. Scofflaw’s or a cocktail from Chattahoochee Food Works and pick a spot to kick back and relax. These events are free for all ages. For more information, visit https://theworksatl.com/events/.

Aug. 4 featuring DJ Jon Q

Aug. 11 featuring DJ Wahine

Aug. 18 featuring Sed the Saint

Aug. 25 featuring DJ Rasyrious

Industry Night at The Works

Mondays in Aug. from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Join The Works every Monday evening for Industry Night! Those who work in the hospitality industry are invited to make connections, have fun and enjoy exclusive specials from participating businesses around The Works. Industry Night is hosted by Your 3rd Spot, Fox Bros BBQ, Dr. Scofflaw’s Brewing, Taste Wine Bar and Market, American Axes, Fetch Park, Forum Cocktail Co. and Chattahoochee Food Works. Hours vary per business, and to receive exclusive discounts, guests must register in advance as industry members. For more information or to register, visit https://your3rdspot.com/industry.

 Chattahoochee Food Works: Georgia’s Largest Happy Hour

Tuesdays in Aug. from 4 – 6 p.m.

Tuesday evenings after work are best spent enjoying happy hour at Chattahoochee Food Works! Stop by with your friends or colleagues for good vibes, live entertainment, delicious bites, cocktails and to learn about great deals from over 30 on-site vendors. For more information, visit https://theworksatl.com/event/cfw-happy-hour-aug-6/.

Music Bingo at Fetch Park

Tuesdays in Aug. at 7 p.m.

Join Fetch Park for classic Bingo with a musical twist! No pup of your own is needed, and humans are free to enter. For more information, visit https://theworksatl.com/event/fetch-music-bingo-aug-6/.

Chattahoochee Food Works: Evening Indie Market

Wednesdays in Aug. from 6 – 10 p.m.

Treat yourself to some retail therapy at the Evening Indie Market inside Chattahoochee Food Works! Bring your friends, grab your favorite beer from Dr. Scofflaw’s Brewing or a cocktail from the Center Bar and shop from a variety of local small businesses selling handcrafted goods, thrifted items and more. For more information, visit https://theworksatl.com/event/cfw-indie-market-aug-7/.

Ales, Tails & Trivia at Fetch Park

Wednesdays in Aug. at 7 p.m.

Come out to Fetch Park and pet some pups, play trivia, and win great prizes! Trivia is free to play each week and no pup of your own is needed. For more information, visit https://fetchpark.com/locations/@%20The%20Works.

Chattahoochee Food Works: Atlanta F.A.M (Fashion, Art, & Music)

Thursdays in Aug. from 6 – 10 p.m.

Join Chattahoochee Food Works for an artist market and exciting live creative experiences every Thursday evening throughout August! Atlanta F.A.M. (fashion, art and music) invites local artists, designers and DJs to share their work and create a space where community and culture intersect. For more information or to learn how to get involved, visit https://theworksatl.com/events/.

American Axes: Trivi-Axe

Thursdays in Aug. from 8 to 9 p.m.

Come out to American Axes every Thursday for Trivi-Axe! Bring your friends, your sharpest wit, and axe-cellent throwing skills. All three will be put to the test during a one-hour round of trivia questions and axe throwing. There is a six-person limit per team. Limited teams available. To register or for more information, visit https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/american-axes-westmidtown/items/367123/calendar/2024/08/?flow=536831&full-items=yes.

Slip n’ Slide Saturday at Fetch Park

Saturdays in Aug. from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Bring your four-legged friends for some summer fun at Fetch Park! Join Fetch Park every Saturday this summer from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a splashing good time! Enjoy slip n’ slides, dog pools, a sunning station and $5 Frozen Rumsicles! For more information, visit the event page.

Summer Soul-stice

Saturdays in August from 2 – 5 p.m.

Join us on Saturdays for live music at The Camp! Grab a beer from Scofflaw and delicious bites or a fresh cocktail from Chattahoochee Food Works. Enjoy local and regional bands for the perfect weekend activity. Fun for all ages, no fee.

Aug. 3 featuring Harrison Bounds

Aug. 10 featuring Funk Cake

Aug. 17 featuring The Epics and Kimberly Lockett

Aug. 24 featuring Leon Majcen Duo

Aug. 31 featuring Kelly Taylor & The Makegoods

Saturday Night Serenade

Saturdays in Aug. from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Join Fetch Park every Saturday night this summer for live music from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by karaoke from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. Enjoy live music, community fun and drink specials at the BARK. For more information, visit https://theworksatl.com/event/fetch-saturday-night-serenade/.

Chattahoochee Food Works: Martinis & Oysters

Friday, Aug. 9 at 5 p.m.

On Aug. 9 at 5 p.m., join us for Martinis & Oysters at Chattahoochee Food Works! When you buy a martini made with Fords Gin at Center Bar, you get three free oysters fresh from Fuzzy’s Seafood. Sip, savor and enjoy a delightful evening! For more information, visit https://theworksatl.com/event/cfw-martinis-oysters-aug-9/.

Olympics Watch Party

Aug. 10 & 11 at noon

Show support for your favorite team at the Olympics by wearing their colors and cheering them on as they compete for the gold! Grab a bite or beverage from Scofflaw, Chattahoochee Food Works, or Fox Bros BBQ and enjoy watching the day’s activities on our large LED screen. For more information, visit https://theworksatl.com/event/olympic-watch-party/.

Chattahoochee Food Works: Luau Party & Fundraiser

Saturday, Aug. 10 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Join Chattahoochee Food Works on Saturday, Aug. 10 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. for its annual Luau Party! Enjoy tropical drinks and music from DJ Steve at its Tiki-themed bar & donate to the Waiwai Ola Waterkeepers Hawaiian Islands. For more information, visit https://theworksatl.com/event/cfw-luau-party/.

Chattahoochee Food Works: Tequila Fest

Saturday, Aug. 17 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Join Chattahoochee Food Works on Saturday, Aug. 17 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. for Tequila Fest! Sample a variety of tequilas, Mezcals and other Mexican spirits while tasting delicious food from around the food hall. Celebrate the flavors of Mexico with friends, drinks, live music and more. For more information, visit https://theworksatl.com/event/cfw-tequila-fest/.

Chattahoochee Food Works: National Lemonade Day

Tuesday, Aug. 20 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Celebrate National Lemonade Day with Chattahoochee Food Works! From 11 a.m. until 9 p.m., guests can try creative lemonade offerings throughout the food hall. Post a picture of yourself enjoying your lemonade at Chattahoochee Food Works, tag the food hall, and they’ll give you a shout-out! For more information, visit https://theworksatl.com/event/cfw-lemonade-day/.

Succulents & Sangrias

Wednesday, Aug. 21 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Join us on Aug. 21 for an evening of creativity and relaxation while we craft beautiful succulent arrangements and sip on refreshing sangrias! During the workshop, led by Garden Hood, mingle with fellow plant lovers and enjoy a laid-back, social evening filled with great company and good vibes. Each ticket purchase includes one complimentary sangria provided by Taste Wine Bar! Whether you’re a succulent novice or a seasoned pro, this workshop is perfect for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy a fun, hands-on experience. For more information and to register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/succulents-sangrias-tickets-973935406017?aff=oddtdtcreator.

Chicheria Mexican Kitchen: A Chefs’ Collaboration Dinner

Sunday, Aug. 25 at 6:30 p.m.

Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to indulge in meticulously crafted seafood dishes and cocktails, showcasing the culinary talents of Chefs Miguel Villamil and Alejandro Tamez. Celebrate the rich culinary traditions of the Pacific coast in an intimate setting. Delight in an amuse bouche, two main courses showcasing Pacific Coast seafood, and a dessert, all inspired by the rich flavors of the Pacific Coast. Savor inventive cocktails that are perfectly paired with each course by Chicheria’s Beverage Director, Will Simpson. For more information and to register, visit https://www.chicheriamx.com/events.

Sip & Stretch: Yo-ga It Bad

Wednesday, Aug. 28 at 6:30 p.m.

Join us on Aug. 28 for the next session in our Sip & Stretch artist-themed yoga series featuring Atlanta’s own, Usher! Get ‘Caught Up’ in the flow to a soundtrack of Usher’s greatest hits and let the rhythm of “U Got It Bad” guide your movements, and then take it ‘Nice & Slow’ during cool-down. Be ready to bend over to the front and touch your toes! Each Ticket Purchase includes one FREE cocktail! For more information and to register, visit https://theworksatl.com/event/sip-stretch-yo-ga-it-bad/.

Upper Westside PUPFEST

Saturday, Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Join us at The Works from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for our 4th annual Upper Westside PUPFEST event! PUPFEST will take place at The Camp and on Camp Street on Saturday, Sept. 7 and feature DJ Steve, Fetch Park, WAG-A-LOT, Woof Gang Bakery, pup-friendly vendors, cooling stations, giveaways and a few new and exciting surprises. Purchase your ticket before Aug. 16 for a discounted price. For more information and to register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/4th-annual-upper-westside-pupfest-2024-tickets-953632519537?aff=oddtdtcreator.

OPEN HAND CELEBRATES ANNUAL PARTY IN THE KITCHEN 2024

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/6/24

Annual fundraiser brings Atlanta’s top chefs together for a night of culinary masterpieces, live music and exclusive auctions in support of Open Hand

Open Hand invites guests to the 21st annual Party in the Kitchen fundraiser at 6:30 PM on Thursday, Sept. 26 at The Foundry at Puritan Mill. As Atlanta’s premier culinary social occasion, Party in the Kitchen is set to showcase 20 of Atlanta’s finest chefs in a celebration of culinary excellence and community spirit. Attendees can expect to enjoy an evening of creative cuisine, innovative mixology, entertainment, auctions and more. Live music from The American Flyers will enhance the patron experience during this unforgettable evening in support of Open Hand’s mission. Chefs Peter Kaiser and Kevin Rathbun return as the chef co-chairs of the evening, while Anne Barge Clegg and Roger Smith join as new event co-chairs for this year. ​
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​“We are honored to have Anne Barge Clegg and Roger Smith join our chef co-chairs Chef Peter Kaiser and Chef Kevin Rathbun for this year’s Party in the Kitchen,” said Open Hand CEO Matthew Pieper. “Not only are they raising critical funds for our mission, they are also ushering in a new era of Open Hand as we relocate our campus to the Westside of Atlanta.”

Local chefs including Kevin Rathbun, Ian Winslade, Peter Kaiser, Chris Hall and Arnaldo Castillo will come together to tempt tastebuds with an array of Atlanta’s most exquisite cuisine. In addition to savoring local bites and cocktails, attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in live and silent auctions, with an exclusive selection of luxury items including vacation homes, sporting events, dining experiences and more.

Prior to the main event, Open Hand will host a Patron Reception for VIP guests in the organization’s new state-of-the-art Community Nutrition Campus at 6:30 PM on Thursday, Sept. 12. Patron tickets are $1,000 and include access to the main event. VIP patrons and sponsors will get an exclusive first look of the campus over cocktails and light bites, as well as the chance to bid on a surprise live auction item only available to those in attendance.

Proceeds raised from Party in the Kitchen support Open Hand’s programs, providing healthy home-delivered meals and nutrition education to those impacted by chronic disease, as well as homebound seniors and at-risk youth and families. Tickets to the Party in the Kitchen’s main event are available now for $350. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit openhandatlanta.org/pitk.

PEACHFEST ANNOUNCES CHEFS & CONTEST TO CELEBRATE PEACHES JULY 21ST

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/1/24

Festival organizers announce chefs and a chance to win over $3,000 in prizes from sponsors

July 21 3pm

Tickets here.

This summer, Atlanta’s Peachtree Center will transform into a vibrant showcase of culinary excellence with Peachfest on Sunday, July 21, 2024, from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This standout event promises a gathering of over 65 esteemed food artisans, pastry chefs, wineries, and notable bartenders, making it a pivotal celebration of Georgia’s peach season and a must-attend for the national and local culinary scene.

Peach enthusiasts have a chance to win over $3,000 in prizes, including overnight accommodations at a luxury hotel, dinners, a Kamado Joe Grill, and VIP tickets to the peach-filled extravaganza. To enter the contest, visit the website, purchase tickets, or find information on where to pick up Pearson Farm peaches at your favorite farmers markets.

Taste Network’s coveted chef-driven Peachfest will welcome over 1,200 attendees. The event offers a delectable array of peach-centric creations ranging from savory to sweet dishes and drinks, meticulously crafted by some of Atlanta’s most celebrated chefs and beverage experts. Now in its tenth year, Peachfest is recognized not only as a premier culinary festival in the South but also as a vital contributor to sustainable agriculture initiatives.

This year’s culinary lineup will feature some of the South’s best chefs and beverage artisans dedicated to supporting local farmers, including Chef Eric Gephart of Kamado Joe, Chef Lamar Moore of Bronzeville Winery (CHI), John Short of Pearson Farm, Fishmonger Shaun Brian Sells of CudaCo. (CHS), Chef Nolan Wynn of Banshee, Chef Matt Crutchfield of Wrecking Bar Brewpub, Chef Demetrius Brown of Bread & Butterfly, Chef Greg Lipman of Piastra, Chef Casey Burchfield of The Burch, Chef Hector Santiago of La Metro, Barkeep James Wampler of Yakitori Kona, Chef Robert Butts of Black Smoke, Chef Karl Gorline of Avize, Chef Matt Marcus of The Woodall Westside, Richard Tang of Bar Diver & Girl Diver, Chef Hudson Rouse of Whoopsies, Chef Chad Clevenger of Two Urban Licks, Chef Shay Lavi of Third Space Atlanta, Melanie Wade of Golda Kombucha, Chef Walter Cortado of Estrellita, Chef Derek Dollar of The Mill Kitchen & Bar, Shirley Hughes of Sweet Cheats, Ali Washington of Soul Food Holistic Healing, Alma Cocina, Marcus Bar & Grill, and many more.

Sponsors of the festival include Kamado Joe Grills, Peachtree Center, Georgia Power, Wrecking Bar Brewpub, Georgia Proud Provisions, Pearson Farm, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Tip Top Cocktails, San Pellegrino, Crown Royal Peach Whisky, Smirnoff Lemonade, Candler Hotel, Wine Group, Fraiche Wine Group, Brother’s Bond Bourbon, Georgia Bulldog Bar, and the Vinoteca Wine Lounge featuring Ribera del Duero and Rueda, Spain’s most prestigious regions for red and white wines.

During Peachfest, guests will be able to enjoy peach-centric dishes, endless beer, premium wines, peach-infused cocktails, and more, curated by leading influencers in Atlanta’s food and beverage industry. Tickets for Peachfest are available starting at $95 for general admission, with VIP access priced at $130, offering early entry and additional exclusive tastings in a private lounge.

Tickets: VIP Access, $130; General Admission, $95. RSVP online at www.peachfest.org
Official Host: Peachtree Center, 225 Peachtree Street NE
Time: 3 p.m. for VIP entry, 4 p.m. for General Admission; ends at 7:30 p.m.
When: Sunday, July 21, 2024

General Admission includes entry to the all-inclusive afternoon affair, featuring peach-centric dishes of all varieties, beer, wine, and cocktails. The VIP ticket offers guests an extra hour of the festival, limited to 300 guests, which includes more time for food, drink, and mingling with the chefs, distillers, and farmers.

With an extraordinary list of participating chefs and sponsors, the festival will also raise funds for Piggy Bank, a non-profit whose mission is to preserve and protect endangered breeds of heritage pigs and support family farmers by creating and sharing business plans that can help form sustainable processes. In times of need, Piggy Bank provides relief to heritage breed pig farmers struck by eco-disasters in an effort to avoid failure.

DRAGON CON 2024 – GUESTS OF HONOR NAMED

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/26/24

DRAGON CON NAMES KRESS, PICACIO AS

2024 LITERARY AND ARTIST GUESTS OF HONOR

Thursday, August 29th – Monday, September 2nd

Dragon Con, Atlanta’s internationally known pop culture, fantasy, sci-fi, and gaming convention, has named author Nancy Kress and artist John Picacio as its 2024 Literary and Artist Guests of Honor.

Dragon Con’s 2024 convention runs from Thursday, Aug. 29 to Monday, Sept. 2 with events and activities across five host hotels – Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Marriott Marquis, Hilton Atlanta, Westin Peachtree, and Courtland Grand Hotel (formerly Sheraton Atlanta) – and AmericasMart Buildings #2 and #3.

From its first convention in 1987, Dragon Con has spotlighted the authors and artists whose creative contributions have breathed life into the realms of fantasy and science fiction as Literary and Artist Guests of Honor. Both Kress and Picacio will be recognized throughout the event and will be on hand to meet fans and participate in panels to provide insight into their success and love of fandom.

Nancy Kress is a multi-award-winning science fiction author whose work explores the far reaches of science and its impact on humanity. Kress, a prolific writer, has penned over thirty books, including acclaimed novels such as Hugo and Nebula Award-winning Beggars in Spain and the multiple Nebula Award-winning Fall series. Her stories delve into genetic engineering, societal change, and the ethical dilemmas of a future shaped by technology. Beyond novels, Kress is a skilled writer of short stories and a passionate advocate for the craft, having served as a columnist for Writer’s Digest and instructor at workshops like Clarion. For more information, visit https://nancykress.com/

John Picacio is an award-winning artist renowned for his captivating illustrations in the realms of science fiction, fantasy, and horror. Over his illustrious career, Picacio has brought iconic scenes to life for major franchises including Star Trek and X-Men, as well as gracing the covers of bestselling books by George R.R. Martin, Michael Moorcock, and countless others.  A master of both traditional and digital techniques, Picacio’s artwork is celebrated for its depth, vibrancy, and imaginative portrayal of fantastical worlds.  He is a three-time Hugo Award winner and has garnered numerous accolades throughout his career, solidifying his place as a leading light in the genre. For more information about John, please visit https://johnpicacio.com/

About Dragon Con

Dragon Con is the internationally known pop culture convention held each Labor Day Weekend (Aug. 29 – Sept. 2, 2024) in Atlanta. Organized for fans, Dragon Con features more than 3,500 hours of comics, film, television, costuming, art, music, and gaming over four days. For more information, please visit www.dragoncon.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).