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One of downtown Atlanta’s most recognizable attractions, the SkyView Atlanta observation wheel, is currently closed for major maintenance and repairs following a suspected lightning strike to its main axle.
The iconic 200-foot-tall wheel, located near Centennial Olympic Park at 168 Luckie Street NW, began dismantling on Monday, January 12, according to an official announcement from SkyView Atlanta.
Why Did SkyView Atlanta Close?
The operators of SkyView Atlanta say that a suspected light strike caused damage to the Ferris wheel. As a result, repairs are needed. Technicians will also use the time to perform some regular maintenance.
Suspected Lightning Strike Closes SkyView
The extensive work is required to safely remove and repair the damaged axle, which involves completely taking apart the wheel—including the ring beams and spokes—for transport to specialized repair facilities in Warrenton, Missouri.
Key Timeline for Repairs:
- January 12, 2026: Dismantling begins
- January 26, 2026: Main axle repair/rebuild completed
- February 2, 2026: Reinstallation starts
- February 12, 2026: Grand reopening to the public
SkyView Atlanta officials describe the process as a proactive and routine safety measure to maintain the highest standards of reliability, performance, and guest safety.
When Will the Atlanta Ferris Wheel Reopen?
SkyView is set to open fully on February 12, according to a press release.
While the closure is significant, it ensures the long-term integrity of the attraction that has delighted locals and visitors with its climate-controlled gondolas and stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the Atlanta skyline since opening in 2013.
“We appreciate the patience and understanding of our guests during this temporary closure,” a SkyView Atlanta representative said in the announcement. “While this repair is extensive, it is essential to ensure the long-term safety and quality experience our guests expect. We look forward to welcoming everyone back very soon.”
The attraction will share regular updates on progress via its official website (skyviewatlanta.com) and social media channels. Once back in operation on February 12, SkyView Atlanta will once again offer breathtaking views from the heart of the city—perfect for tourists, date nights, or family outings.
In the meantime, nearby attractions around Centennial Olympic Park, the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and State Farm Arena remain open for visitors exploring downtown Atlanta.
Stay tuned to local news for any further updates on this popular landmark’s return.
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A new financial option has arrived for creatives in the Atlanta area and beyond. CineFi, billed as the first fully digital credit union designed specifically for entertainment industry professionals, officially launched on Wednesday, Jan. 14.
The platform targets workers in television, motion pictures, music, gaming, content creation, and influencing — from established names to up-and-coming talent.
CinFi Digital Credit Union: Tailored for Entertainment Professionals
It also extends to the wider ecosystem, including related nonprofits, schools, organizations, festivals, and companies that support the creative sector.
CineFi is a project of First Entertainment Credit Union, which has more than 50 years of experience serving movie and TV professionals (both above and below the line).
The new digital-only service aims to fill what organizers describe as a longstanding gap in banking options suited to the irregular income, freelance nature, and unique financial challenges many in entertainment face.
Key features include:
- High-yield checking and savings accounts
- Early direct deposit (up to two days sooner)
- Round-up savings on debit card purchases
- No account fees
- Access to over 33,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide, plus ATM surcharge rebates
- Tailored financial education resources
- A seamless mobile-first digital banking experience
Services are available nationwide through the app and online platform, though the launch emphasizes support for Atlanta’s growing entertainment community.
“Financial empowerment is essential to creative freedom,” said Stephen Owen, President and CEO of First Entertainment Credit Union and CineFi. “By creating a credit union built exclusively for entertainment professionals, we’re giving both established talent and rising voices the tools they need to thrive—not just financially, but as part of a stronger, more connected creative community.”
For eligibility details or to join, interested individuals can visit cinefi.com. As a credit union, membership is based on qualifying criteria tied to the entertainment field.
This launch arrives as Atlanta continues to solidify its status as a major hub for film, TV production, music, and digital content creation, with increasing numbers of professionals relocating or working in the region.
Final Word
CineFi positions itself as a local-rooted but digitally accessible resource for those navigating the industry’s financial ups and downs.
Speaking of personal finance, if you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.
Read more: Best work from home jobs in Atlanta, Georgia
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The queen of Atlanta reality TV is making her long-awaited comeback! Nene Leakes, the larger-than-life star who helped put The Real Housewives of Atlanta (RHOA) on the map, is returning to Bravo after years away from the network.
Production sources confirmed to TMZ that Leakes will appear on Bravo’s newly announced series with the working title The Real Housewives: Ultimate Road Trip, where she’ll have a notable presence during the show’s Atlanta leg.
Report: Nene Returning to Bravo for Cameo
Leakes, 58, originally rose to fame as an original cast member on RHOA when it premiered in 2008. Known for her sharp wit, iconic catchphrases like “I am very rich, b–,” and unfiltered drama, she became a fan favorite and a staple of Atlanta’s pop culture scene.
She departed the show after Season 12 in 2020 amid contract disputes and allegations of unfair treatment, but has since expressed openness to returning under the right circumstances.
In a recent interview, Leakes even told TMZ she would consider rejoining RHOA, praising superfan Cynthia Erivo and hinting at unfinished business in the Peach State.
While this isn’t a full-time return to RHOA – sources emphasize Leakes won’t be a regular cast member – her involvement in the road trip spin-off is sure to thrill local fans.
The new series, which promises to bring together Housewives from various cities for cross-franchise adventures, will feature Leakes when the action hits Atlanta, potentially stirring up old rivalries and new alliances. Social media is already buzzing over the news.
As a proud Atlantan, Leakes has deep roots in the city, from her early days as a stripper (which she openly discussed on the show) to building a successful career in acting, fashion, and business.
Her return could signal a revival for RHOA, which has seen fluctuating ratings in recent seasons without its OG powerhouse. Local hotspots like her former lounge, The Linnethia, might even get a shoutout if the road trip cameras roll through town.
Final Word
Bravo has yet to announce an official premiere date for The Real Housewives: Ultimate Road Trip, but with Leakes on board, expect fireworks – Atlanta style. Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for more updates on this developing story and all things reality TV in the ATL.
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Movie mogul Tyler Perry, the Atlanta-based filmmaking powerhouse behind Tyler Perry Studios, is shifting gears once again with a fresh spin-off from his beloved Madea universe.
This time, the spotlight is firmly on Madea’s foul-mouthed, no-filter brother, Joe Simmons — and fans are already buzzing about the chaos ahead.
Uncle Joe’s in the Driver’s Seat for One Chaotic Cross-Country Adventure
Titled Tyler Perry’s Joe’s College Road Trip, the upcoming comedy marks the first standalone feature centered on Joe, the grumpy patriarch who’s spent years stealing scenes alongside his pistol-packing sister Madea.
Written, directed, produced, and starring Perry himself, the film follows Joe as he takes his sheltered grandson B.J. (played by Jermaine Harris) on what was supposed to be a straightforward college tour.
Instead, it turns into a raucous cross-country road trip designed to teach the young man about the “real world” — with plenty of detours, tensions, and life-changing lessons along the way.
“Uncle Joe is finally behind the wheel, and you know that means trouble,” Perry teased in recent promotional materials.
The official synopsis promises high-stakes hilarity: “In an effort to teach him about the real world, Joe takes B.J. on a cross-country college road trip where tensions get high but life-changing lessons are learned.”
Expect Joe’s signature irreverent humor, unapologetic commentary, and inevitable mishaps as the duo hits the open road.
Joining Perry and Harris in the cast are Amber Reign Smith (known from Perry’s Beauty in Black), Bethany Anne Lind (Ozark), and a supporting ensemble featuring Jeremy Gimenez, Millie Jackson, Wil Deusner, Patricia Williams, and more.
Production took the crew across multiple locations, including filming in New Mexico, Memphis (with scenes on iconic Beale Street), and of course, right here in Atlanta at Tyler Perry Studios.
This project continues Perry’s prolific partnership with Netflix, following hits like Mea Culpa, A Jazzman’s Blues, and last year’s Madea’s Destination Wedding.
Joe’s College Road Trip is one of several Tyler Perry projects slated for the streamer in 2026, alongside titles like The Gospel of Christmas, ’Tis So Sweet, and more.
The film drops globally on Netflix on Friday, February 13, 2026 — just in time for a Valentine’s weekend filled with laughs instead of romance. With the official trailer recently released and showcasing Joe’s wild energy, early reactions suggest this could be another must-stream for Perry fans and comedy lovers alike.
As Atlanta’s hometown hero continues to dominate screens big and small, Joe’s College Road Trip proves once again why Tyler Perry remains one of the most unstoppable forces in the movie industry.
Buckle up, Atlanta — Uncle Joe is hitting the road, and it’s bound to be one unforgettable (and chaotic) ride.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for more updates, trailers, and local ties as we count down to the premiere. What do you think — will Joe survive the road trip without Madea bailing him out? Let us know in the comments!
With more than 900 movie and TV projects just in the last few years, the film industry has generated more than $9 billion for the state of Georgia.
There are so many movies filmed in Atlanta these days that it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest movie casting calls, celeb sightings and Atlanta happenings delivered to your inbox.
See Atlanta Casting Calls And Auditions Available Right Now
Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls
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For the new year, the airlines are enticing travelers with low fares for springtime.
In Georgia’s largest city, you’ve got the world’s busiest airport—Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (ATL)—right in your backyard. That means nonstop, affordable flights to sunny beaches, vibrant cities, and epic adventures all over the globe, without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re plotting a quick weekend escape to Orlando’s theme parks or eyeing a winter bargain to New York for Broadway lights, December is prime time for snagging deals.
We dug through the latest from Kayak, Google Flights, Expedia, and more to round up the best steals departing from ATL. These fares are as low as $25 one-way, but they won’t stick around—book by mid-December for the biggest savings. Let’s dive in.
In this article, we’ll go over some effective ways to find low-cost airfare.
Book These Cheap Fares From Atlanta, Georgia
Cheap fares are in the order of the day right now for Southwest and a few other airlines.
Flights From Atlanta: New Orleans, NY, LA For Cheap
If you’re flying out of Hartsfield, here are some cheap flights you might not want to pass up. These are current as of January 2026.
From Atlanta Nonstop Airfare Starting From To Austin, TX Yes $99 To Baltimore / Washington, D.C. Yes $79 Chicago (Midway) Yes $79 Los Angeles Yes $99 New Orleans Yes $69 New York (LaGuardia) Yes $99 Oakland, CA Yes $99 San Diego Yes $99 Tampa Yes $49 Philadelphia Yes $79 See other dates on Southwest’s nationwide sale HERE.
To Atlanta is one of the most convenient places to travel to and from. A large part of that is because Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is so accessible.
Cheap Frontier Fares From Atlanta
Frontier Airlines is also running a sale out of Atlanta. Some one-way flights as as cheap as $39 (for Den members) and $49 (non-Den members). If you’re interested in flying Frontier, see the latest cheap fares here.
Frontier Airlines’ Year-Round Subscription
Frontier Airlines’ all-you-can-fly subscription plan allows you to pay one fee for unlimited flights within the year. The price of the Go Wild! Plan is now $349 for the first year and will auto-renew for $699 in the second year unless you cancel.
Needless to say, you can save a lot of money if you plan to fly a lot in the coming year. Book now though because Frontier just may raise the prices!
Before Your Trip…
Do You have a Travel Bag That Works?
There are good travel bags and there are bag travel bags. You’ll want one that fits the size of carry-on and checked bags.
Buy
Here are some other travel bags with high reviews:
- Women’s Pink Weekender Travel Bag
- Plambag Canvas Duffle Bag
- Samsonite Checked Medium Bag
- Puma Men’s Contender Duffle Bag
- Rockland 19 inch Tote Bag
Final Word
Know the best times to book cheap flights. What we’re seeing now from Southwest is just a preview. Airfare prices are about to drop as more airlines battle for your vacation dollars.
Cheap flights in and out of Atlanta, Georgia, used to be as rare as a unicorn, but that’s not been the case of late. The major airlines have advertised some affordable low fares over the past couple weeks. All you have to do to take advantage is search for cheap fares.
Not only is it the world’s busiest airport, but it’s state-of-the-art in every way. If you’re interesting in traveling around Atlanta via car or even on scooter, here’s what to know. If you’re a Southwest fan, here’s how to save money with their Low Fare Calendar. There are some rare sales going on right now in the airline industry. If you’re traveling out or into Atlanta, these cheap flights are hard to pass up. More Articles Like This:
Traveling Soon? Check Out Our International Checklist
- How not to get kicked off a Delta flight
- How to get a cheap flight out of Hartsfield Airport
- Delta is hiring 1,000 flight attendants
Up Next: Atlanta Travel Guide
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The Atlanta Falcons have officially named legendary quarterback Matt Ryan as their new President of Football Operations.
The announcement, made Tuesday, Jan. 13 at a packed press conference at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, marks a triumphant homecoming for the man who once led the team to Super Bowl glory and now steps into a pivotal front-office role to shape the franchise’s future.
In his first remarks as president, Ryan expressed gratitude and enthusiasm: “I am so excited to be a part of this organization. I didn’t know much about the city before I got here, and now here we are, however years later, and it’s home. It really is.”
“I’m at the same table, but my seat has changed,” Ryan said, alluding to his new role in the organization. “There is a sense of unfinished business. We were close at times and had some success here and there, but i truly believe we’re going to get there.”
Matt Ryan: ‘There’s a Sense of Unfinished Business‘
Blank said that the Falcons interviewed five people, including Ryan. Fresh off the firing of their head coach and general manager, the Falcons are looking for Ryan to immediately work on filling those positions.
Ryan, affectionately known as “Matty Ice” during his 14-year tenure with the Falcons, retired from playing in 2023 after a storied career that included stints with the Indianapolis Colts.
A first-round draft pick out of Boston College in 2008, he quickly became the face of the franchise, amassing over 59,000 passing yards, 367 touchdowns, and earning the NFL MVP award in 2016.
At the end of that same season, he orchestrated one of the most memorable campaigns in Falcons history, guiding the team to Super Bowl LI with his poise under pressure and pinpoint accuracy.
After hanging up his cleats, Ryan transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting and philanthropy, but his heart never strayed far from Atlanta. Blank praised the decision, stating, “He led us through the most successful 14 years of our franchise. Everything between football and grass he is responsible for.”
The role of President of Football Operations places Ryan at the helm of the team’s football strategy, overseeing scouting, player personnel, coaching staff decisions, and long-term roster planning. This comes at a crucial time for the Falcons, who have been rebuilding since their last playoff appearance in 2017.
With a young core including quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and running back Bijan Robinson, Ryan’s expertise could be the catalyst for a return to contention in the NFC South.
Local fans are buzzing about the hire. “Matt Ryan back in the fold? That’s huge for us,” said longtime season ticket holder Jamal Thompson. “He knows what it takes to win here—no one’s better equipped to fix our front office.”
As the Falcons gear up for the offseason, Ryan’s immediate priorities include evaluating free agency targets, preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, and fostering a culture of excellence. Insiders suggest he may draw from his experiences under coaches like Mike Smith and Dan Quinn to implement data-driven decisions and innovative training regimens.
This appointment isn’t just a nod to nostalgia; it’s a strategic play to leverage Ryan’s deep football IQ and Atlanta roots. For a franchise hungry for success, Matty Ice’s return could be the chill factor that turns the heat up on the competition.
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Tex-Mex is that particular fusion of good Mexican food done Texas-style, and Atlanta has been here for it for a long time. If you want good Tex-Mex in Atlanta, there are some standout establishments that you should definitely check out.
This article will show you some of the best Atlanta restaurants for Tex-Mex cuisine.
What’s The Difference Between Tex-Mex And Mexican Food?
The difference between Tex-Mex and Mexican food may be one of semantics to many people: Mexican food quite naturally encompasses the food and culture inspired by a whole country, while Tex-Mex are the select Mexican dishes popularized and influenced by Texas sensibilities.
With all that said, Tex-Mex has some ingredients that you can find in many American cupboards and kitchen tables, while Mexican food has more hard-to-find products and is thus more exclusive.
Best Tex-Mex Food In Atlanta: What The People Say
Let’s look at some Atlanta restaurants with the best tacos according to the people. These eateries all have reviews with them so you can see how real customers feel about the place.
Red Pepper Taqueria
3135 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 869-2773
Here’s what one customer says about Red Pepper Taqueria: “The queso dip was good, but on the thick side. The salmon taco was soggy & had no taste. The lamb taco was the best thing I had. What made this place a bad experience was the wait staff. They were weird acting & we felt really rushed & unwelcome. The busboys were really nice tho. I wouldn’t go here again. Tin Lizzy’s is a million times better.”
Superica Restaurants
Atlanta Locations:
- Krog Street Market: 99 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
- Buckhead: 3850 Roswell Rd NE #100, Atlanta, GA 30342
- The Battery Atlanta: 455 Legends Pl #800, Atlanta, GA 30339
- The Avalon: 1130 1st St #1030, Alpharetta, GA 30009
Here’s what one reviewer says about Superica: “Wow! Talk about the place to be on a Friday night. I highly recommend putting your name on this list 30-45 before you want to eat, but it will be worth the wait. Cool decor, atmosphere was positive and up beat. We got a text saying our table was ready, before we knew it we were greeted by Randall who was very knowledgeable of the menu. We received our drinks and guacamole rather quickly. You MUST try the tequila martini, because it is good.”
Chido & Padre’s
128 E Andrews Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 848-9100
Here’s what one patron says about Chido & Padre’s: ” The Birria Tacos were tasty and delicious and the drinks were just great. . This isn’t a typical Mexican restaurant which is obvious due to the creative menu. But nonetheless wonderful and worth every penny . Thank you for a wonderful experience can’t wait to return.”
Taqueria del Sol
Atlanta Locations:
- 1200-B, 1200-B Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
- 2165 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 | (404) 321-1118
- 359 W Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, GA 30030
- 5001 Peachtree Blvd Suite 910, Chamblee, GA 30341
Here’s what one reviewer says about Taqueria del Sol: “I had a brisket taco and a fried chicken taco. Both were delicious. The prices are very reasonable for the portions delivered. The ambiance is fresh and the staff is quite pleasant. I will go again and try other items.”
Bartaco
Atlanta Locations:
- 969 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 607-8226
- 299 North Highland Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (470) 400-8226
Here’s what one customer says about Bartaco: “The pork belly tacos are amazing (5/5), the flavor just melts in your mouth ! The margarita drink was delicious! The chicken empanadas were good too — good texture and flavor (4/5) and the salsa that came with it had great flavor too.”
Agavero Cantina
1133 Huff Rd NW c, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 464-5250
Here’s what a customer says about Agavero Cantina: “Who knows Mexican food better than someone who grew up eating it, right, Jasmin? It’s always great to see you! Hope you’ll be back soon to join us for more of your favorite meals and margaritas.”
Final Word
When it comes to Tex-Mex, the best Atlanta restaurants have a knack for presentation and with creativity.
Tex-Mex food is delicious in that it uses many foods that other cuisines don’t. Try not to overdo it with the shredded cheese, beans and hot peppers. At the same time, it’s delicious.
Aside from Tex-Mex and Mexican eateries, Atlanta also has trendy restaurants that continue to draw big crowds.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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Grindhouse Killer Burgers, the beloved Atlanta-born chain famous for its custom-blended burgers, is set to fire up its newest location in the Upper Westside this week.
The restaurant officially opens its doors on Wednesday, January 14, at 1221 Chattahoochee Avenue, right at the bustling corner of Ellsworth Industrial Boulevard and Chattahoochee Avenue.
Free Burgers at the Grand Opening
To mark the grand opening, the first 100 guests through the door will score a free Grindhouse Style Jr. Burger—loaded with American cheese, caramelized onions, lettuce, pickles, and that signature Grindhouse sauce.
If you’re a true Atlanta burger fan, you’d know that this marks the brand’s sixth standalone spot in the metro area, owned and operated by partners Alex Brounstein and Johnny Farrow.
Spanning a generous 7,000 square feet on a prime corner parcel next to Selig Enterprises’ The Works development, the new Grindhouse offers plenty of dedicated parking for dine-in guests and easy takeout pickup—perfect for the neighborhood’s mix of families, workers, and visitors.
Since Brounstein launched the first Grindhouse at the historic Sweet Auburn Curb Market back in 2009, the brand has built a loyal following with its proprietary Certified Angus Beef blend of chuck and brisket.
Burgers come in creative signature styles or fully customizable, with options like the recent addition of grilled chicken breast as a protein choice. Sides, hot dogs, salads, and a solid lineup of drinks round out the menu.
“The Upper Westside has a strong sense of community, and it felt like the right place for our next location,” said Brounstein. “The rooftop is an important part of our restaurants, and this one was designed as a comfortable place to enjoy good food and drinks. We’re looking forward to serving the Upper Westside.”
Designed by Studio SOGO Architecture, the two-story building delivers versatile vibes: the ground floor provides spacious indoor and covered outdoor seating geared toward quick-service meals and family-friendly dining. Upstairs (21+ only), you’ll find a full-service rooftop bar and shaded patio—ideal for catching games on multiple large-screen TVs, lingering over drinks, or soaking in the views.
Beyond its standalone spots across Atlanta and Athens, Grindhouse has airport outposts in Concourses T and D at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
The brand also ramps up with catering, a food truck, and partnerships like serving fans at University of Georgia games at Sanford Stadium. In 2025, they boosted their presence at Truist Park with three locations, including the Outfield Market and sections 315 and 335.
“Alex and Johnny have built an iconic Atlanta brand, and we are excited to welcome them as a tenant in the Selig portfolio,” said Mindy Selig, Co-CEO of Selig Enterprises. “This location is the perfect place for Grindhouse and they are a great addition to the community.”
When it opens, the Upper Westside Grindhouse will operate Wednesday through Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (closed Tuesdays, based on the provided details).
Final Word
Burger lovers in Underwood Hills and beyond—get ready. The Upper Westside just got a whole lot tastier. Head over starting Wednesday and see what the hype is about!
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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The minds behind one of Netflix’s most iconic series have pulled back the curtain on the intense pressure and last-minute scrambles that shaped the emotional conclusion of Stranger Things.
In the newly released documentary One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5, now streaming on Netflix, creators Matt and Ross Duffer open up about the unusually chaotic writing process for the show’s series finale (Season 5, Episode 8).
Stranger Things Documentary Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Madness
The brothers describe it as “the most difficult writing environment” they’ve ever faced, driven by massive creative pressure, sky-high fan expectations, and relentless pushes from production teams and Netflix executives to lock in the script.
Adding to the stress: Filming in Atlanta and other places kicked off before the finale script was fully complete—a rare and nerve-wracking move for the Duffers.
Production assistant Montana Maniscalco noted in the doc that parts of the final episode were shot without the complete story in hand. The full script was only finalized just days before the cast’s emotional last table read in September 2024.
Matt Duffer reflected on the high-stakes timeline, explaining that while the ending had been carefully outlined for years, the actual writing raced against the clock as cameras rolled.
Cast members, including Finn Wolfhard, shared how the prolonged uncertainty left everyone emotionally drained, with months spent waiting to learn how their characters’ journeys would wrap.
Despite the behind-the-scenes turmoil, Stranger Things Season 5—released in three volumes ending with the finale on December 31, 2025—drew record-breaking viewership, with Volume One smashing previous Netflix benchmarks.
The series, which first premiered in 2016 and became a global phenomenon, wrapped after nearly a decade, and the Duffer Brothers expressed deep gratitude to fans, saying the show’s lasting impact far exceeded anything they imagined.
For an in-depth, all-access look at the writers’ room debates, set life, cast goodbyes, and the final push to bring the Hawkins story full circle, check out the documentary here: One Last Adventure: The Making of Stranger Things 5 on Netflix.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for more on your favorite shows, local film happenings, and streaming highlights!
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As Atlanta prepares to honor one of its most iconic native sons in the days ahead, a national report highlights that two Southern states—Mississippi and Alabama—still combine the observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day with Robert E. Lee Day on the same date.
Here in Georgia, state offices, schools, and many businesses across metro Atlanta will close on Monday, January 19, 2026, solely in recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Georgia long ago moved away from linking any commemoration of the Confederate general to the federal holiday celebrating Dr. King, who was born in Atlanta on January 15, 1929, and whose legacy of nonviolent civil rights activism continues to shape the city and nation.
The practice of combining the two observances dates back to the 1980s in certain states, when lawmakers added the new federal MLK holiday (first observed in 1986) to an existing state holiday marking Lee’s birth on January 19, 1807.
Efforts in Mississippi and Alabama to separate the holidays or remove the Lee designation have repeatedly failed in recent legislative sessions. Har tip to the Jackson Clarion-Ledger for wring about this.
MLK Day in Georgia
By contrast, Georgia reformed its holiday calendar years ago. What was once listed in some contexts as a day tied to Lee is now simply observed as an unnamed state holiday on the day after Thanksgiving (a date shared with Black Friday shopping in 2026).
The state no longer ties any Confederate figure to the January MLK observance.
In Atlanta, the focus this week remains firmly on Dr. King’s life and work.
The King Center for Nonviolent Social Change has announced a full schedule of events for the 2026 King Holiday Observance, running from January 12 through January 19. Highlights include:
- The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday March and Rally on Monday, January 19, assembling at 1:00 PM at the corner of Baker and Peachtree streets in downtown Atlanta.
- Special recognitions for honorees such as Viola Davis (Coretta Scott King Soul of the Nation Award), Billie Eilish (Environmental Justice Award), philanthropist Robert F. Smith (Salute to Greatness Humanitarian Award), and others.
- Community services, vesper services, forums, and more at locations including Ebenezer Baptist Church, Morehouse College, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.
Federal offices, banks, and many private employers in the Atlanta area will also observe the third Monday in January as Martin Luther King Jr. Day, with no official recognition of Robert E. Lee attached.
Final Words
While some Southern states maintain other Confederate-related observances on different dates (such as Confederate Memorial Day in April in several states), Georgia’s approach emphasizes Dr. King’s birthday as a standalone day of reflection, service, and unity.
Residents are encouraged to check local event listings and participate in volunteer opportunities across metro Atlanta to mark the occasion in the spirit of Dr. King’s teachings.
