This weekend in Atlanta and its neighboring areas is packed with thrilling events and activities that cater to diverse interests, from music and arts to family-friendly festivals.
On Friday and Saturday, Broadway enthusiasts can enjoy “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of the Temptations” at the historic Fox Theatre. This captivating musical chronicles the inspiring journey of The Temptations, showcasing their rise from the streets of Detroit to becoming a celebrated act in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Performances will take place at 8 p.m. on Friday and at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturday, with ticket prices starting at $46.75. The Fox Theatre, located at 660 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, is known for its stunning architectural design and rich history.
For those looking for a more laid-back yet lively atmosphere, the Virginia-Highland Summerfest is the perfect option. This festival kicks off on Friday evening with a community dinner, games, live music, and food trucks from 6 to 9 p.m. On Saturday, the festival continues from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring an artist market, music, and a 5K run.
Entry to both the kickoff party and the festival is free, while participation in the 5K run ranges from $40 to $45. The location is at the intersection of Virginia and North Highland avenues, encompassing John Howell Park and Virginia Highland Elementary.
Animal lovers should not miss the Zoo Atlanta Neighborhood Block Party happening on Sunday. Attendees can enjoy special reduced admission prices, Ask-A-Zookeeper talks, interactive displays, and live music spun by DJ Matt. The event also features classic yard games, a vibrant coloring mural, and more from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m., with the last entry at 6 p.m.
Admission prices are $19.95 for adults and $14.95 for children aged 3 and older, while Zoo Atlanta members and children under 3 can attend for free. Zoo Atlanta is located at 800 Cherokee Ave. SE.
On Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., pet owners can bring their well-behaved, leashed pets to Thurman Springs Park for the “Bark in the Park” event. This festive gathering includes storytime for pets and kids, pet vendors, exhibitions, and adoptions.
Attendees will have the chance to win prizes in various categories, including best costume and best owner/pet look-alike. Best of all, this event is free to the public, making it a great family outing in Powder Springs, located at 4485 Pineview Drive.
Another free family-friendly event is the Kennesaw Outdoor Movie Series. On Saturday, attendees can indulge in premovie fun at Swift-Cantrell Park, starting at 6 p.m., before the screening of “Moana 2” on a large inflatable screen at 8:15 p.m.
Meanwhile, classic soul and R&B fans can head to Smyrna’s Village Green Park on Saturday evening for a free concert by the Ray Howard Band. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, and if you want to secure a table with six chairs, it is available for $60 for residents and $75 for nonresidents. The concert runs from 7 to 10 p.m.
For those interested in a creative activity, the Dunwoody Nature Center will host a “Paint Like Bob Ross” event on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Participants will create a Bob Ross landscape painting, and all supplies are provided. Participants are asked to bring a roll of paper towels, baby wipes, and a cardboard box for transporting their creations. The class costs $70.
Families are invited to celebrate the grand opening of Fernbank’s turtle exhibit on Saturday during “A Turtles ‘Shell-ebration.” This event includes hands-on stations, interactive learning experiences, games, and crafts from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is included with general admission tickets, which range from $25.95 to $27.95, and members receive free entry. Fernbank is located at 767 Clifton Road, Atlanta.
On Friday evening, salsa enthusiasts can enjoy a night of Cuban music and dancing at the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. Starting at 6 p.m., the event features free bachata and salsa classes, leading into a lively salsa dance party that lasts until 10 p.m. Tickets are priced at $15 in advance and $20 at the door.
Additionally, the SanSe Atlanta festival at the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre on Saturday will bring Puerto Rican culture and community to life. Guests of this festival will have access to unlimited food and drink, with ticket prices set at $124.99 for general admission. The festival runs from 4 to 8 p.m.
For nature lovers, the Flying Colors Butterfly Festival at Chattahoochee Nature Center will take place on Saturday and Sunday. Visitors can engage with live butterfly encounters, meet pollinator experts, shop for plants, and savor local food from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. General admission is $25, and children aged 2 and under can enter for free.
Garden enthusiasts can also appreciate the North Fulton Master Gardeners’ Petals and Pathways Garden Tour on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will visit three distinct and beautifully curated gardens, enjoy light refreshments, and engage with master gardeners for insights and gardening inspiration. Tickets for this tour are $25, and admission is free for attendees aged 17 and under.
Don’t miss the Party in the Park event at Grayson City Park on Friday evening from 6 to 8:30 p.m., featuring bounce houses, games, and live music, all for free.
Finally, the Bellpoint Gem Show from Friday to Sunday at the Gas South Convention Center offers an opportunity to shop for unique crystals, gems, minerals, and custom jewelry. Tickets are $12 online for the entire weekend or $10 cash only at the door.
This weekend promises a vibrant mix of culture, entertainment, and community events, ensuring there’s something for everyone in the Atlanta area.
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