Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency.
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From July 15-19, more than 100 of the country’s top antique and vintage dealers will pack the Southern Exchange Ballrooms for the Marburger Farm Antique Show in Atlanta this summer.
Boasting over 50,000 square feet of curated treasures and design finds, the iconic show returns to Georgia’s largest city on July 15.
On that same day from 4-7 p.m., Marburger’s VIP Shopping Experience, hosted by Atlanta Magazine, will offer an exclusive first look, offering VIP guests a chance to browse and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces before the show opens to the public.
Promising a night of inspiration and unique finds, the $200 ticketed kick-off event will draw top interior designers, collectors and style enthusiasts from across the region. Complimentary light bites and beverages will be available.
On opening morning, July 16, from 9-10 a.m., Marburger and Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles will host a special Breakfast and Design Panel on the latest trends and ideas in antiques and design, featuring premier designers and antique dealers and moderated by Lauren Iverson, Editor in Chief of Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles. This exclusive $40 ticketed event includes admission to the show, immediately following the panel.
“Atlanta welcomed us with open arms last year, and we’re eager to return,” said Jeremy Buonamici, CEO of Marburger Farm. “Our dealers bring an incredible mix of European and American antiques, global relics and rare design pieces. Whether you’re an experienced collector or just looking for something out of the ordinary, there’s something for everyone at Marburger.”
For nearly three decades, Marburger’s Texas show has attracted tens of thousands of antique hunters, including design world icons such as Kelly Wearstler, Martyn Lawrence Bullard, Joanna Gaines and Carson Kressley, along with celebrities like Gwen Stefani, Jenna Lyons and Camila and Matthew McConaughey.
Event Details:
- July 15 –VIP Shopping Experience hosted by Atlanta Magazine, 4-7 p.m. ($200 ticketed event)
- July 16 – Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Breakfast and Panel Discussion, 9-10 a.m. ($40 ticketed event)
- July 16-19 – Open to the public, 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.($10 General Admission Tickets)
- July 19 – closes at 4 p.m.
Marburger Atlanta takes place at Southern Exchange Ballrooms, located at 200 Peachtree St. To learn more and purchase tickets.
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Atlanta, Georgia is a greenspace paradise, or at least some of it is. Have you visited Atlanta’s parks system?
In this article, we’re going to show you where some of the best parks are in Atlanta. You can use these spots for a quick jog, a pleasant walk or even a nice picnic.
Greenspaces have become even more popular during the coronavirus pandemic, where getting into the open air and away from large crowds can do wonders for our physical as well as mental health.
Here Are The Best Atlanta Parks
So, you can see that finding great park space is no biggie in Atlanta, and yet, many Atlanta parks have their own features, dynamics and geography. Whether you’re looking for a place to just chill and relax or trying to find a place for your kids to play, you’ll find that the best Atlanta parks have a little of both.
So, which Atlanta parks are the best? Well, how about we rely on the many voices found on the internet to answer that question? AtlantaFi has compiled numerous comments from various sites to get their take on the best Atlanta parks you can find.
Cook Park
View this post on InstagramCook Park in the Vine City neighborhood of Atlanta has all the amenities you’d want in an urban greenspace: It’s close to the community, near downtown and is expertly manicured!
Bellwood Quarry
View this post on InstagramThe Bellwood Quarry Westside Park is old abandoned quarry converted into a modern urban water reservoir park.
Here’s what one park lover says about Bellwood Quarry: “This is going to be one amazing park after my first big love Piedmont Park. I love the fact that you can walk or bike around the entire park and end up in different section. I spent hours walking around this park and loved it. I will sure be going there again for my nature walk. I love the fact that the city of Atlanta is working hard to create these different parks venue for people to be outside and keep them healthy. This is a smart investment for people who know how much health care cost in this country. Keep up the good work opening these different venue to keep us healthy.”
Perkerson Park
Perkerson Park, located at 770 Deckner Ave SW Atlanta, is a 50-acre park in the Capitol View/Sylvan Hills neighborhoods. It has a basketball half-court just past its entrance, but up the path on a plateau about 200 yards away is a full court basketball court. There’s also a kids’ playground, a recreational fields, a jogging track and frisbee tournament grounds.
South Atlanta Park
Located at Gammon St SE, South Atlanta Park opens at 8 a.m. daily. One Google reviewer said this about South Atlanta Park: “I normally love coming to this park but lately it feels like maintenance has been lacking. This used to be one of my favorite places to come- don’t get me wrong- still is an amazing park. Just wished it was a bit cleaner and up kept.”
South Bend Park
South Bend Park, one of the south side’s signature parks, is located at 1955 Compton Dr SE Atlanta. Here’s what one Google reviewer said: “The trail is very nice but the park itself is a bit sketchy. A lot of homeless make the covered areas their residence. The playground, and all play areas for that matter, could use a good pressure washing. The baseball field looks nice but no rec sports are offered by this park. There’s no public engagement from the city at this park. Which is unfortunate because our community needs it! Maybe a burger/hot dog day in exchange for the community to come out and clean up the park while meeting the neighbors. Just a thought.”
Centennial Olympic
Park Centennial Olympic Park is the best Atlanta park for tourists, business travelers and children. Right in the middle of downtown, 21-acre Centennial Olympic Park was built for the 1996 Olympics and has a number of features left over from the Games, including the water gardens & the Fountain of Rings..Here’s what a Google reviewer said about the park. “What an aesthetically incredible park!
Centennial Olympic Park located in Downtown Atlanta fascinated me so much that we(my family & I)ended up spending more than an hour here appreciating the Fall Foliage and clicking tonnes of pictures.
The Fountain of Rings, The Bronze Arch statue and the Statue of The founder of Olympic Committee are the predominant Charms of the park.”Emma Millican Park
View this post on Instagram#cleanup #cleaningupthepark #emmamillicanpark #trash #grabber #volunteering
Emma Millican Park, located in Capital View Manor neighoborhood just off Metropolitan Parkway in southwest Atlanta, is a relatively small park built for families, picnics and shade tree chillin’.
Here’s what one Google reviewer said: “Perfect place for a 1 year old grandson to take his grandpa to wear him out so grandpa will sleep well that night. All of it is clean and in great shape. We go several times each week.”
Grant Park
Grant Park, adjacent to its namesake neighborhood, is the oldest city park in Atlanta and is known for its sprawling green space. The park is a favorite of eastsiders, many of whom live in the Victorian homes that surround the park.
One Google reviewer said: “Much nicer than it was in the 90s. Yes, it has been that long since I have been there. The Farmer’s Market that runs 9 to 1 most Sundays is great. Less produce and more local artisans with cheese, meats, soaps, bread and on like that. We were there to walk our dogs, but the market was nice. We had wood fired pizza, scones, donuts, coffee, and iced tea. There is produce, but not many. Maybe in warmer months there is more.”
D.H. Stanton Park
View this post on InstagramD.H. Stanton Park has some pretty trails as well as a baseball park. Located at 213 Haygood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315, Stanton Park is located around some of the oldest neighborhoods in southwest Atlanta.
One Google reviewer said this: “Wow! Such a nice playground for kids. Splash pad, rubber Hill area, seating, the works! Use Martin Street address when getting directions from MAPS. If you use Haygood address you will end up on a dead end on a tight Street you don’t want to be on! Didn’t give it 5 stars because there is limited shaded area that is subject to being taken over for a birthday party and no off-street parking.”
Historic Fourth Ward
Park Historic Fourth Ward Park has been revitalized in recent years, making it a favorite green space in Midtown Atlanta. The 17-acre park has a skate park, amphitheater and is adjacent to the Beltline.One Google reviewer said this: “It was a chill place where you could just walk and catch up with a friend. There’s water park nearby for the little ones and a pond where ducks sometimes come to play. It’s a really nice spot to get in tune with nature a bit.”Avery Park (The
Gilbert House) Avery Park, where the Gilbert House is located, sits on a civil war site that has been turned into a tourist gathering spot in southwest Atlanta.
“The Gilbert house is a historical Civil War Revenant one of the few homes surviving the burning of Atlanta the house was saved by local who put the fire out years later in the mid-60s the house was restored and now acts as a spool the grounds are very attractive and large lots of shade trees and the home itself is very handsome,” one Google reviewer said. “Excellent artifact from the 1800s in the Civil War Gilbert house if you’d like to see a piece of History.”
Springvale Park
Springvale Park is located in the Inman Park neighborhood in Midtown Atlanta. Located at 889 Euclid Ave NE, Springvale Park is a best-kept secret in the city.
Here’s what one Google reviewer had to say: “Cute little Park tucked away in the Inman Park neighborhood. Has a stream that is really cute for taking pictures.”
Pittman Park
Pittman Park is a recreational mecca for the neighborhoods around Garibaldi Street in southwest Atlanta. PIttman Park has a basketball ball court, a recreation field, a tennis court, a pool and more.
One Google reviewer said: “It is a good park the have cheerleading, football, basketball, and track. You will really love it.”
Howell Park
Howell Park is one of the best parks in Atlanta’s West End area. Located at 983 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW, Howell Park is a great place to get some fresh air or read a book.
Here’s what one Google reviewer said: “This park needs a facelift…. Things are slowly being added to improve the serviceability of the park but the city should do more to push the junkies and the drunks that frequent the park somewhere else.”
The Rev. James
Orange Park at Oakland City James Orange Park at 1305 Oakland Ln SW has been a family gathering spot for Oakland City residents for years.
“Nice park,” one reviewer said. “Well maintained. Upgraded pool. Not very busy. Nice gazebo for parties and reunions. Surrounding areas is a little questionable.”
Piedmont Park
Atlanta’s flagship park, PIedmont Park is the crown jewel of Midtown. The park is a great place for a jog, sightseeing or to even have a wedding. Adjacent to the Beltline, Piedmont Park also has a farmer’s market and nearby restaurants.
Here’s what a local guide said: “Superb clean park. Many things to do and a huge park for the whole family. You can walk🚶, skate, bike🚲 , scooter or more through this beautiful part of Atlanta. You can rest some of the places for events through the park system, even wedding venues. On Saturday they have farmers market with unique goods. A must stop if your visiting Atlanta.”
Hurt Park
View this post on InstagramHurt Park in downtown Atlanta is a favorite green space near the city’s financial district as well as Georgia State University. Since the main homeless shelter closed in 2017, Hurt Park has been a primary place for homeless people.
Here’s what a reviewer said: “This is a historic park in the area of Edgewood Ave. At this park you will see college students, professional people, people playing board games etc. However, homeless individuals gather here too. Our ministerial group passed out Pre-Thanksgiving dishes to the homeless.”
Boulevard Crossing
Park Boulevard Crossing Park is located at 500 Englewood Ave SE and is a main soccer training field for youths. With two multi-use fields and immaculate landscaping, Boulevard Crossing Park is primed for recreational sports play.Here’s what one reviewer said: “I liked that they had trash cans and picnic tables. The field isn’t completely flat but definitely good enough for most ground sports. They should get recycle bins.”Atlanta Memorial Park
Atlanta Memorial Park is a great place to run, jog or walk. With multiple tennis courts, the park is well-designed for athletic play. It also has a golf course, playgrounds and trails.
Here’s how a Google reviewer described it: “Great park for trail walking. Dogs are allowed as long as they are on leash. Beautiful wooded trails with multiple loops/ routes for different distances. A lot of different wildlife can be seen, from deer to owls. Very popular for runners and walkers. Has a pond and streams. The pond can be fished. Great family spot.”
Woodruff Park
Woodruff Park in downtown Atlanta is a beautiful park a short distance from Underground Atlanta just off Peachtree Street. It’s nothing to see scores of people in the park due to GSU students milling about in the pavilion as well as homeless people congregating there to play or watch chess games.
One Google reviewer said: “I love coming to this place. There are two different areas to choose from depending on the size of your dog or what tots you’d like to have available for them to play with. People here are always friendly and nice and even bad weather can’t spoil the fun of bringing out your pet to play!”
Cabbagetown Park
Cabbagetown Park is a major green space in its namesake neighborhood. While it’s not a large park, it packs a punch with a children’s playground, sculptures and plenty of room to run around.
“Cool neighborhood park,” one reviewer said. “Perfect for a quiet afternoon of reading or chilling with kids/dogs. The sitting area under the big tree is very shaded for those hot days. Walk over to Sweet Cheats for coffee and something sweet.”
Maddox Park
Situated on Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway, Maddox Park is a hot location due to its inclusion in the Beltline designs. Want easy access? Maddox Park is conveniently located across from the Bankhead MARTA Station.
Here’s what one reviewer said: “With the train station being literally at the park, the industrial ambiance is quite relaxing, if you ask me. The Marta train station is located across the street. Thankfully, a pavilion is close in distance to cool off at & is perfect for hosting parties. The basketball court is gated and filled with great street players. There is also a gated pool with a kiddie umbrella water area. The only thing I dislike is the lack of parking spaces in front of the parks community building.”
How You Can Save Atlanta’s Parks
View this post on InstagramYou might not know it but, Atlanta’s parks are endangered due to urban sprawl and utter neglect from city officials and the community. But you can do something about that.
Join the movement spearheaded by the Trust for Public Land to put a park within a 10-minute walk of every American.
Final Word
Atlanta, Georgia has become an oasis of public greenspaces. People looking for wide open spaces and green acreage don’t have to travel very far to find it in the city.
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Got any other ATL parks to add to the list? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
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If you’re looking for cheap plane tickets right now, you should know that Atlanta typically can be expensive when it comes to flying in or out of Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. But there’s one airline that can give more cheap fares than others based off costs per mile.
Researchers at CashNetUSA analyzed data from the FAA, TripAdvisor, and Air Miles Calculator to compare flight prices from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) to every other major U.S. airport, identifying which airlines provide the most affordable fares for travelers departing from ATL.
Check out this airfare pricing map, which shows the cheapest airline costs per mile. As you can see, in Georgia, you’ll fly for 11 cents per mile.
Determining the absolute cheapest airline flying out of Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) right now depends on your destination, travel dates, and booking time. However, based on current trends and available data, low-cost carriers like Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines consistently offer some of the lowest fares from ATL.
Read up on how to get cheap fares from Atlanta.
- Spirit Airlines: Known for ultra-low base fares, often starting as low as $20-$40 one-way to destinations like Fort Lauderdale, Miami, or Philadelphia. However, additional fees for baggage, seat selection, and other services can increase the total cost, so review their policies carefully.
- Frontier Airlines: Similarly budget-friendly, with one-way tickets frequently in the $27-$48 range to cities like Denver, Orlando, or New York. Like Spirit, Frontier operates a low-cost model with optional add-ons.
For example, recent data shows Spirit offering flights to Fort Lauderdale for as low as $39 round-trip and Frontier to Denver starting around $48 round-trip, though these prices are for specific dates in May 2025 and subject to change.
Tips to Find the Cheapest Flights:
- Check fare comparison sites like Kayak, Skyscanner, or Expedia for real-time deals.
- Be flexible with travel dates—midweek flights (Tuesday/Wednesday) are often cheaper.
- Book at least 53 days in advance for the best rates, as prices rise closer to departure.
- Consider nearby destinations or smaller airports for potential savings.
Since prices fluctuate hourly, I recommend checking directly on Spirit’s or Frontier’s websites or a platform like Kayak for the latest deals from ATL.
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The lounge life just got sweeter in Atlanta. The new Delta Sky Club at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) opened its doors on April 8, 2025, marking the first entirely new Sky Club in Atlanta since 2016.
Located in Concourse D-Center Point near the food court, close to gates D18 and D21, this is the eighth Sky Club at ATL and reflects Delta’s efforts to enhance the passenger experience at its largest hub during its centennial year.
Delta Sky Club: What To Know
Spanning 24,000 square feet, it’s the second-largest Sky Club in Atlanta but offers the most seating, with capacity for 506 guests, making it a major draw for passengers as well as employees.
The design draws inspiration from Atlanta’s Southern hospitality and urban sophistication, featuring elements like a brick entryway, shutter screens, coffered ceilings, and lighting reminiscent of outdoor ceiling fans, creating a welcoming, home-like atmosphere.
The lounge includes Southern-inspired artwork by local Atlanta artists, such as a vibrant green tile mural behind the buffet that nods to Atlanta’s nickname, “City in a Forest.”
Amenities cater to both business and leisure travelers, including a large central bar, two additional beverage stations, a buffet with regionally inspired food, six private Framery phone booths (one accessible), a theater-style media wall, and a business area with a high-top coworking table.
Seating options range from recliners and couches to bar-style seats, with airfield views enhancing the experience. While it lacks an outdoor terrace or shower suites, the focus on functional space and seating capacity addresses the high traffic at Delta’s busiest hub.
This opening aligns with ongoing renovations at Concourse D to accommodate more passengers and larger aircraft, with plans to refresh Sky Clubs in Concourses A and C by the end of 2025. It’s considered Delta’s nicest lounge in Atlanta yet, blending modern design with practical features to elevate the travel experience.
Final Word
Atlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!
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Some things you don’t forget, like when your favorite artist came to Atlanta either on tour or a special performance. Some of the hottest artists have performed at Atlanta venues at one time or another.
Back in the day, if you didn’t buy a ticket you had to remember the event as best you could. But today with social media, Youtube, Vimeo and other video recordings, concerts can be seen in their entirety.
Top Artists That Performed At Atlanta Concerts
Some of the biggest artists came through Atlanta’s Philips Arena, the Georgia Dome and other defunct arenas in the 1990s and early 2000s. Here are some of the best ones we could find.
Usher Feat. T.I. – Atlanta 2024
In 2005, Destiny’s Child toured one last time before its three members embarked on solo careers. The Atlanta stop was turned into a movie and remains a highlight of the group’s live performances.
Taylor Swift – Philips Arena – Atlanta
Taylor Swift came to Atlanta and sold out Philips Arena, causing major traffic gridlock that weekend.
Miguel – War & Leisure Tour – Atlanta
R&B singer Miguel came through Atlanta in 2018 as part of his “War & Leisure” tour. The date further solidified Miguel’s fanbase in the Dirty South.
Prince’s Last Performance – April 2016 at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre
Who can forget Prince’s last concert in early April 2016 at the Fox Theatre? The Purple One electrified his fans with back-to-back performances that have gone down in history. Less than a week later, the music legend was dead.
Young Thug Concert In Atlanta
Young Thug used to do local shows in Atlanta all the time before he hit it big. Now, when the rapper does a show in Atlanta, it’s in a major venue.
New Edition at Pepsi Funk Fest in Atlanta
New Edition is Atlanta second home, with members Bobby Brown and Ron DeVoe calling the metro area home. Here is one of their legendary performances in the city.
Alabama Shakes at The Earl in Atlanta
Alabama Shakes chose the quaint venue, The Earl, to give a signature performance in 2011.
Drake & Migos, 2017 at Philips Arena
Drake and Lawrenceville’s own Migos performed a memorable set at Philips Arena in 2017.
James Brown – Atlanta
None other than the Godfather of Soul, Jmes Brown, brought the house down in his homestate of Georgia, a few hours from his hometown of Augusta.
Mary J. Blige – 2011 – Tabernacle
Mary J. Blige, the Queen of Hop Hop Soul, brought her soul-stirring voice to downtown Atlanta’s Tabernacle in 2011.
Parliament Funkadelic Concert In Atlanta
George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic raised a ruckus when they played before a packed crowd.
Thompson Twins , The B-52’S & Culture Club Live At Chastain Park
The Thompson Twins,The B-52s and the Culture Club performed in Buckhead toa packed house.
Sade – Philips Arena – 2011
Sade Abu packed Philips Arena in 2011 in a celebrity-filled concert that people are still talking about.
Erykah Badu – 2016 – Atlanta
Erykah Badu brought Baduism and more to Atlanta in 2016. The singer has spent some time in the city throughout years while rearing her son, Seven, with Outkast member Andre Benjamin.
Outkast & Dungeon Family – Lakewood Amphitheater – 2016
Outkast and the Dungeon Family turned ONE Musicfest into a reunion as the whole crew took the stage for a medley of hits.
John Legend – Philips Arena – 2013
John Legend brought his crooning to downtown Atlanta in 2013 for a winter concert that brought crowds to Philips Arena.
Floetry – Center Stage – 2015
Floetry had the crowd jumping when they re-assembled for a concert in Midtown Atlanta’s Center Stage.
Kanye West – St. Pablo Tour – Philips Arena
Kanye West stopped by Atlanta, his birthplace, to promote his then-new album St. Pablo.
Jennifer Lopez – Philips Arena 2012
J-Lo did her thing on stage in 2012 with a performance of all her hits at Philips Arena in downtown Atlanta.
Jay Z and Beyonce – Mercedes-Benz Stadium – 2018
In August 2018, a fan rushed the stage when husband-and-wife team Jay Z and Beyonce performed on stage.
Why Do Artists Love Performing in Atlanta?
Big music artists love performing in Atlanta for a few key reasons.
First, the city has a massive, passionate music fanbase—it’s a cultural hub where people live and breathe music, especially hip-hop, R&B, and trap. The energy from the crowds is electric, and artists feed off that vibe.
Second, Atlanta’s history as a launching pad for talent means it’s got a reputation—performers know they’re stepping into a place that’s shaped legends like OutKast, T.I., and Future. It’s almost like a rite of passage.
Third, the infrastructure’s top-notch: venues like State Farm Arena or the Tabernacle are world-class, and the city’s logistics make it a smooth stop on tours.
Plus, the nightlife and creative scene draw artists in—they can network, collaborate, or just soak in the culture while they’re there.
It’s a sweet spot where audience love, legacy, and practicality collide.
Atlanta has several live-music venues you should check out. If you plan on going to downtown Atlanta for a concert, make sure you enjoy a dinner at one of these restaurants.
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Are you ready for some outdoor fun on the west side Atlanta? It’s happening on Saturday, April 12.
Come celebrate the day at the Urban Forest Festival 2025, exploring all three sites of Atlanta’s Children’s Forest Network as we honor the urban forests we cherish.
Urban Forest Festival: What To Know
Kick off the day by walking, skating, or biking to the lesser-known Lionel Hampton Beech Nature Preserve in West Atlanta for a morning immersed in nature.
Next, join us at the Outdoor Activity Center to mark its 50th Anniversary with a lively Forest Disco Party, featuring a ribbon cutting, mushroom workshops, screen-printing, and more.
Finally, wrap up at Cascade Springs Nature Preserve for an Earth & Art Celebration tribute to Radcliffe Bailey—don your finest Black dandy or AfroFuturistic attire!
Schedule:
- 9:00 AM – Lionel Hampton Beech Nature Preserve
- 9:00 AM – Special Edition: Service Saturday
- 11:30 AM – Outdoor Activity Center
- 3:00 PM – Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
Final Word
Festivals are year-round in the city. Every Atlanta weekend has something cool to do. The city has a thriving cultural, food, sports and music scene, with venues like the Tabernacle and the Fox Theatre hosting concerts and shows throughout the year.
The city is also home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Opera, offering world-class performances for music lovers.Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots.
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The Big Shanty Festival is an annual event that brings out the best of Cobb County’s most vibrant cities.
In downtown Kennesaw, this free festival features over 250 arts and crafts vendors, food stalls, live music, a parade, and children’s activities. Aside from being one of the best Atlanta-area festivals, the Big Shanty Festival is a classic community event with broad appeal.
The Big Shanty Festival: What To Know
The Big Shanty Festival, officially known as the Superior Plumbing Kennesaw/Big Shanty Festival, is an annual event held in downtown Kennesaw, Georgia, that’s been running for nearly five decades.
The vibe’s a mix of small-town heritage and modern fun—Kennesaw’s old nickname “Big Shanty” ties it to its Civil War-era roots, but today it’s about community and commerce. It draws over 60,000 people, boosting local businesses and tourism.
Here’s what you should know if you’re planning to check it out or just want the rundown:
What is The Big Shanty Festival?
It’s happening on April 12-13, 2025, for its 49th year. The festival kicks off Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., after a parade that’s been canceled this year due to low participation—usually it’d start at 9:30 a.m. with kids, sports teams, and marching bands.
Sunday runs from noon to 5 p.m. Admission is free, so you won’t need to shell out just to walk in.
Big Shanty Festival: What To Expect
Expect a big setup: over 250 arts and crafts booths, 25 food vendors slinging fair classics like turkey legs and funnel cakes, and a beer garden for those looking to sip something cold.
It’s family-friendly with a kid’s zone featuring activities, plus live entertainment all weekend—think acoustic sets at the food court, puppet shows by Peter Hart of Atlanta Puppetry, and a new Ready Go Dog Show with frisbee-catching dogs at the United Bankshares Amphitheater.
The Georgia Grown Member Village is back too, spotlighting local Georgia-made goods.
Location-wise, it’s smack in downtown Kennesaw near the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. If you’re driving up I-75 north, take Exit 273 (Wade Green Road), head west for about two miles, and you’ll hit it.
Parking’s available at Adams Park, Kennesaw First Baptist Church, and Swift-Cantrell Park, with free shuttles running from Swift-Cantrell to the festival both days. Main Street gets closed off, making it safer to roam between spots like City Hall and the museum area.
Final Word
Heads-up: it’s pet-friendly—lots of folks bring dogs—but the crowds and hot pavement can be rough on pups, so plan accordingly. Weather’s not a dealbreaker; it’s rain or shine. For more details, you can call JRM Management at (770) 423-1330. That’s the gist—big, busy, and a slice of North Georgia life.
Atlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!
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America is having a tariff-ic time these days as countries respond to fees tacked onto products exported to the United States. What the ordinary American consumer may not realize is that tariffs will affect some household goods they use daily.
But what items will tariffs specifically affect? And what do the price increases mean for you and I? Let’s get into it.
What Products Are Going To Increase in Price Due To Tariffs?
Tariffs are likely to raise prices on a variety of consumer goods in the United States by increasing the cost of imported products, which is often passed on to consumers. Based on current economic analyses and the types of goods commonly imported, here are five consumer goods that are particularly vulnerable to price increases due to tariffs:
Electronics (Smartphones, Laptops)
Photo credit: Daria Shevtsova / Pexels.com A significant portion of electronics, such as iPhones and laptops, are manufactured in countries like China, which has been subject to tariffs as high as 20% (with proposals up to 60% or more). These tariffs directly increase the cost for importers, and studies indicate that much of this cost is passed onto consumers, potentially raising prices by 10% or more depending on the tariff rate and company pricing decisions.
Automobiles and Auto Parts
The U.S. relies heavily on imported auto parts and vehicles, especially from Canada and Mexico, which face 25% tariffs, and other countries subject to a baseline 10% tariff. This could add thousands of dollars to the price of cars—estimates suggest an increase of $2,500 to $5,000 for lower-cost models— impacting both new car buyers and those needing repairs with imported parts.
Fresh Produce (Avocados, Strawberries, etc.)
Agricultural products like fruits and vegetables, particularly from Mexico (which supplies about 90% of U.S. avocados), are hit with 25% tariffs. Since these are perishable goods with limited domestic substitution in the short term, prices are expected to rise quickly, potentially by 2.9% or more, affecting grocery bills.
Clothing and Footwear
A large percentage of apparel and shoes sold in the U.S. is imported from countries like China, Vietnam, and Bangladesh, facing tariffs ranging from 34% to 46%. Retailers often pass these costs to consumers, which could lead to noticeable price hikes for everyday items like sneakers and jeans.
Household Appliances (Washing Machines, Refrigerators, etc.)
Many appliances are imported from China and other nations, and past tariffs (e.g., on washing machines in 2018) have shown price increases of over 11%, adding roughly $86 per unit. With new tariffs in place, similar or greater increases are likely as manufacturers and retailers adjust to higher import costs.
Are Tariffs All Bad? Not Necessarily
One lesser-discussed aspect of tariffs is their potential to act as a strategic tool for economic development, beyond just protecting domestic industries or raising revenue. Economists often focus on the inefficiencies tariffs introduce—like higher consumer prices or trade wars—but rarely highlight how they can be used to foster long-term industrial growth in specific contexts.
Historically, countries like the United States, Germany, and Japan used tariffs in their early development phases to shield nascent industries from foreign competition. This allowed them to build domestic capabilities, achieve economies of scale, and eventually compete globally. The “infant industry” argument is acknowledged in economic theory, but it’s often downplayed because it’s hard to implement without corruption or inefficiency creeping in. Success requires precise timing—knowing when to phase out protection so industries don’t become permanently dependent.
Another secret is the bargaining power tariffs create. By threatening or imposing tariffs, a country can negotiate better trade deals, extract concessions, or deter unfair practices like dumping. This isn’t just about economics; it’s geopolitics masquerading as trade policy. Few economists emphasize this because it blurs the line between their field and political strategy.
The catch? Tariffs are a double-edged sword. They can backfire if other nations retaliate, or if domestic firms get lazy behind the protective wall. Data from the World Bank shows that countries with prolonged high tariffs—like India pre-1990s—often stagnated compared to those that liberalized strategically. So, the real secret is less about tariffs themselves and more about how they’re wielded: as a scalpel, not a sledgehammer.
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Grocery prices are reacting to tariffs by going up and up, and that’s not good for our wallets. The good news is that you can still save on food prices if you take some key steps.
This article will show you how to trim your grocery bill to save more of what you earn.
Not everyone can buy their eggs wholesale. What can you do to keep as much as your money as possible at checkout?
You can save money on groceries if you use some of the strategies in this article.
Save On Groceries By Following This 7 Steps
Your food bill is one of the most important expenses you have. You can’t wipe it out, but you can lower it. This article is going to show you how to do that.
1. Use Coupons
The next time you see the crazy coupon lady on aisle 7, ask if she’ll teach you a thing or two. Coupons are the easiest way to save money at the grocery store.
You can clip coupons from sales flyers in the store or go online; either way you save money.
2. Use Your Grocery Store Loyalty Card
Do you use your Kroger Plus card to save? You should.
Many grocery stores have loyalty cards that take real money off your bill during checkout. Some grocers may even print a coupon along with your receipt.
3. Follow The Sales
For starters, you need to see the sales that the local stores in your area. For a city like Atlanta, here are the national chains and their sale pages:
4. Don’t Shop Hungry
One of the main ways people put things in their basket that they have no business is because they’re hungry when they shop.
Always eat a full meal before you go to the grocery store. This way, the temptation won’t be so great to buy whatever you see.
5. Choose Generic Brands
If you’re one of those people that shop only for name-brand items, that you’re going to go broke fast. The way to save is to buy generic brands.
If you like Raisin Brand cereal, you can bet that you can find a cheaper brand that has those same raisins in it. In some cases, you’ll find that generic brands are cheaper.
6. Buy In Bulk
Believe it or not if you buy in bulk, you’ll get a better price than if you bought food wrapped individually.
That means places like Sam’s and Costco will get your grocery dollars, but it’ll be worth it.
Some area stores that allow you to buy in bulk include:
7. Use Cashback Apps
You’ll be surprised how much money you can put back into your wallet by downloading some cashback apps. Here are the best ones:
Last Words
The price of a gallon of milk, bacon and other food staples is skyrocketing right now. You need to save money on your groceries.
The key to it all is that you want to find what’s on sale. The way you do that is you look for items on the end of the display cases and the bigger signs in the store. That’s what’s on sale!
You can save even more if you’re an Amazon Prime member. Here’s what to know.
Metro Atlanta has a hot economy and that means employers are hiring at a rapid pace. We currently have job articles that show you high-paying jobs, those close to downtown and even side hustles you might like.If you’re looking to get hired in Atlanta right now, there’s a very real possibility that you can land your dream job.Up Next: How To Shop At Your Local Farmers Market
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When it comes to strip clubs, Atlanta has a lot of meat on the bone, literally — and it’s no wonder why. If you’re looking for some adult things to do in Atlanta, pulling up to an Atlanta strip joint is apparently high on the list.
Atlanta has long been known as an adult destination at night. But your girlfriends and wives can also look the part. The best strip clubs in Atlanta have been found in strip malls, defunct business buildings downtown and in the suburbs and southwestern parts of the city.
Here Are The Best Strip Clubs In Atlanta Right Now
Atlanta strip clubs used to be known for their “nekkidness” of the dancers, something surrounding states outlawed. But more recently, the city’s thriving music scene has made the Atlanta strip club part of hip-hop culture.
Read more: What it’s like inside an Atlanta strip club (VIDEO)
//rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?o=1&p=36&l=ez&f=ifr&linkID=d80f42d70da2e0cbeab72baf9b716971&t=221708-20&tracking_id=221708-20Here are some of best strip clubs in Atlanta and its suburbs, where “the playas play” in The A.
Blue Flame Lounge
1097 Harwell Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
One of the most enduring strip clubs in Atlanta is Blue Flame Lounge, or known to locals as the Blue Flame. Some Atlanta natives will tell you that this is the best strip club in Atlanta! Known as “the home of the $5 table dance,” this strip club widely advertises its big screen TVs and caters to sports fans looking to enjoy the food and casually look at the girls.
Established in 1983, Blue Flame is an Atlanta strip club known for its exceptionally friendly wait staff and above average customer service. The Blue Flame is perhaps best known as the house of Shawty Lo, a deceased southwest Atlanta rapper whose funeral procession included a stop through this venerable strip club.
Blue Ivory Nightclub
599 Whitehall St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Photo caption: Youtube Blue Ivory Nightclub charges $20 for admission for customers to get in. More than a strip club, Blue Ivory is an Atlanta restaurant that caters to a wide variety of clientele, featuring comedy shows and other entertainment.
One Google reviewer said: “Nice little after hour spot. Warning dancers don’t get naked like regular strip clubs. If you want a cheaper priced bottle to turn up on a late night this is your spot. Would return for sure.”
Cheetah Lounge
887 Spring St NW Atlanta, Ga 30308
Based in Midtown Atlanta, the Cheetah Lounge has a long history of catering to discreet celebs ushered in and out of town from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. With a full-service restaurant inside offering seafood and steak, Cheetah appeals to many a high-dollar businessman as well.
Clermont Lounge
789 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta, Ga 30306
One of the most famous establishments in Midtown is the Clermont Lounge, known as a tourist magnet and beloved for its longevity and embrace of “mature” strippers who treat you like a nephew.
The dancers come out in scantily clad nightwear and then quickly get down to business.
The Clermont Lounge has been in the basement of the Clermont Motor Hotel since the late 1960s, making it the city’s oldest active strip club. The good thing is that if you get there before 8 p.m., it’s free.
Club Babes
304 Fulton Industrial Circle SW Atlanta, GA. 30336
Club Babes is not as well known as some of the longer operating strip clubs, but it is quickly growing. Club Babes hosts weekly and monthly contest and feature their Match 20 Program where patrons can turn $20 into $40 instantly. The strip club also hosts the biggest twerking competition in Atlanta as well as an Exotic Car Driving Experience giveaway.
Club Wax
4375 Commerce Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30336
Club Wax is an Atlanta strip club that will cost you between $5 and $20 depending on when you go. The strip club is that gets a lot of business on the weekends.
One reviewer said this: “Wax is on Fulton industrial so dat part of town is known as the track since there are plenty pf lot lizards lerking. Wax is safe, they provide parking security for an option of $5, $10, $20. Entry price is between $5 to $$20. Drinks are reasonable. Dances are $5. Very pretty girls depending on the night u go. If the girl likes she will then ask for VIP dance with a happy ending.”
Deja Vu 2
2997 Campbellton Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30311
Deja Vu 2 located in southwest Atlanta is one of those old-Atlanta spots that has defied the city’s close-at-2 a.m. rules — when it can. Fueled by the sounds of DJ FaSho on most nights, the establishment operates as a sports bar and nightclub with live music, comedy shows and birthday parties on a nightly basis until midnight on weekdays and 2 a.m. on weeknights, when it becomes an adults spot.
Here’s what one reviewer said about Deja Vu 2: “Dances cost $5 dances vary from air/mild contact … to heavy grinding contact. It really depends on the dancer. Most of these women keep their bikinis on while they dance, but a few of the bad girls will pull out the breasts and go topless if you’re tipping for a long time.
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One of the better dancers is going to be a tall lightskin older woman with an outstanding body and natural big ass, named Phoenix Sunshine. She’s one of the few women left who can jump up and down and make her booty clap. Fake silicone booty women can’t do this. Great personality as well.”Diamonds Of Atlanta
1715 Northside Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
The West Midtown strip club Diamonds of Atlanta, or Diamonds, opened in 2017 in the space formerly reserved for Scores. A Google reviewer said this about Diamonds: “I was here for my bachelor’s party and I had a great time,I got 2 lap dances from two beautiful girls I would definitely recommend this spot to anyone.!!”
Follies
4075 Buford Hwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30345
Photo credit: Youtube Follies is located in Chamblee, which makes it the most accessible strip club to those in the northern suburbs of DeKalb and Fulton counties. Follies is known to have the most diverse stable of dancers in all of metro Atlanta. Guests can find several nationalities on the pole, from Vietnamese, Cambodian, Filipino and more. Weekday table dances will set you back $10, but the VIP will be about $150.
Foxy Lady LoungeThe Office1635 Moreland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
Foxy Lady Lounge is now known as The Office at the same address. The club is well known to Atlanta Eastsiders and is a neighborhood hangout with cheap wings and good sights.
A reviewer of this Atlanta strip club said on Facebook: “Southeast Atlanta’s hangout spot to hit up after you leave either the starlight drive inn or 4Seasons. Down to earth adult ent club, good food drinks and no doubt shawty some of the sexy dancers in ATL.”
Another reviewer on Yelp said this: “Ok this club is literally demonstrates that any woman with a vagina can be a stripper. Never in my life have I been to a strip club and where the majority of the girls in their looks 4 months pregnant. And not only that most those chicks was mad ugly. There was tons of cars outside but hardly any dudes inside and upon entering I saw a bunch hideous looking females who looked like worn out hookers off Fulton Industrial Blvd! “
Goldrush Showbar
2608 Metropolitan Pkwy SW, Atlanta, GA 30315
Located on Metropolitan Parkway near Cleveland Avenue, Goldrush Showbar has been catering to southwest Atlanta patrons for more than 15 years. The fact that it’s less than 5 minutes from the airport and right off I-85 only helps it pull visiting clientele. Goldrush has no cover charge before 7 p.m. and every Wednesday is $5 dances and $5 drinks.
Here’s what one Google reviewer said of the place: “I find the place to be more entertaining than any other strip club in Georgia. One of the most things I like was the girls are nice, friendly, and very polite to customers …. the staff is super cool and respectful, especially Edwin, the security guard.”
Magic City
241 Forsyth St SW Atlanta, Ga. 30303
Perhaps the city’s best-known strip club, Magic City has been one of the biggest names in exotic dancing in not only the Southeast but the whole United States. Come there on a Monday night and you just might see any number of celebrities that call Atlanta home, from professional football players to actors and reality TV stars and, yes, rappers like Future, who owes the joint much of his success and vice versa.
Magic City runs a tight ship and is known to have some of the most “skillful” dancers in the city, as well as some of the best-paid dancers (supposedly). The chicken wings are good, too!
Oasis Goodtime Emporium
6363 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Atlanta, GA 30360
Oasis Goodtime Emporium, known to locals as just Oasis, has the distinction of being open longer every night (morning) than any other metro Atlanta strip club: 4 .m.
The laid-back Doraville establishment has made a name for itself as featuring dancers who aren’t trying to be reality TV stars or date ballers. Billed as Atlanta’s best “burlesque restaurant,” Oasis creates an atmosphere is seen as down to earth. And the food deals make sure patrons come through the doors: Come for the girls, stay for the free buffet every day from 4 to 7 p.m.
A Yelp review said this: “Not a bad place if looking to see nudity, have cheap drinks and be low key. It’s not the “high class” place with a huge sticker price. The girls aren’t that bad compared to other small strip joints like follies and cabaret. Yes, it’s not pink pony or cheetah but it’s also doesn’t come with the huge cover charge and attitude like pony. If looking for higher class hands down cheetah but keep in mind most of those girls are hand picked based solely on perfection and most of them have followings and so on.”ONYX
1888 Cheshire Bridge Rd Atlanta, Ga 30324
Onyx, one of a stable of like-named clubs around America, stands out as part nightclub, part circus. Big-bodied women swinging on poles is sport in this ladies lair.
The various stages highlight the many dancers and their strengths, some big, some small, all of them acrobatic and even athletic. During the day time, you can get dances for as little as $5 until the evening.
Peaches
779 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd, SW Atlanta, Ga. 30310
Peaches Atlanta, located in the West End area of the city, hosts a free “Customer Appreciation” night each week.
Here’s what one reviewer said on Yelp: “It’s in the hood but everyone is mad cool. Parking is secured and $10. The ladies were beautiful and polite. The drinks were on ONE. Andddddd they have food which wasn’t bad.”
Tattletale Lounge
2075 Piedmont Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
One of Buckhead’s most renown strip clubs, Tattletale Lounge, known to locals as Tattletales, opens at 1 p.m. on weekdays. You can gain free entry with an event stub, which shows you have patronized another venue in the city. Located at the I-85 underpass, Tattletale also offers a free sandwich and chips with a drink purchase between 1 and 6 p.m. daily.
Here’s what one reviewer said on Yelp: “Went last night and had a blast. Bottle service starting at $100, $10 lap dances, beautiful girls, great music and a fun crowd. Going earlier to make sure you can get dances from the girls you really like is a good idea, cause most of them get booked in private rooms for hours as the night progresses.”
Strokers
1353 Brockett Rd, Clarkston, GA 30021
Tucked away in a downtrodden strip mall in little Clarkston, Georgia, Strokers has made a name for itself as one of the best strip clubs outside I-285. The one thing it has going for it, which other strip clubs lack, is that Strokers pulls an international crowd, thanks to Clarkston’s moniker as the “United Nations” of the South. There are more immigrants in the city’s 2-mile radius than there are in any other mile of the United States. That means Strokers’ brand recognition is known from the Balkans to Zimbabwe and all parts in between.
Pink Pony
1837 Corporate Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30329
Photo credit: Youtube Tucked between the Brookhaven and Druid HIlls area of Atlanta, the Pink Pony has a loyal following that attracts some of the city’s top executives (AT&T is nearby) as well as neighbors from the Buford Highway corridor. The club’s high-priced clientele and penchant to attract some of the nation’s top girls (like Penthouse Pet of the Year Kenna James) has made it a legendary stop for bachelor parties through the years.
One Google reviewer said this: “My husband and I always have a blast when we go. We only go there to see Pyro. She is the best dancer and entertainer.”
Pin Ups
2788 E Ponce de Leon Ave, Atlanta, GA 30030
You wouldn’t think Pin Ups could hold its own if you judged it by the building alone. Located in Decatur, PIn Ups stands alone as the strip club for those with the most stamina. Open Thursday through Sunday until the ungodly ohour of 8 a.m., the strip club has all the lures: $5 lap dances, $5 wings, and even a breakfast menu. Free before 5 p.m.
V Live
1271 Marietta Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
If rap artists such as Drake and 2Chainz is any indication, V Live is the place to be. V Live is owned by Atlanta rapper T.I. and is a celebrity magnet. Known for its “stripper job fair,” V Live has weekly events like “Yo Atl Raps in Atlanta” and “Trendsetter Thursdays.” Whether you’re a baller or not though, the $20 for parking is a big turnoff.
No longer with us: Pleasers in East Point, Mardi Gras in Sandy Springs, which both bit the dust after running into business problems.
Next up: Bring Magic City home: Where to buy cheap lingerie online
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: CJ@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
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