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Undefeated multi-division champion Claressa Shields headlines a historic women’s boxing card at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena tonight, August 15, 2026, challenging Kaye Scott for the WBA and WBC middleweight titles.
The bout marks the first time a women’s boxing event has ever headlined the arena. It is also Shields’ professional debut in Atlanta.
Shields (18-0, 3 KOs), the self-proclaimed “GWOAT” (Greatest Woman of All Time), returns to the 160-pound division after a successful run at heavyweight. The two-time Olympic gold medalist and Flint, Michigan native is the first boxer in the four-belt era—male or female—to become undisputed champion in three weight classes.
She currently holds the undisputed heavyweight titles and previously captured undisputed honors at middleweight and junior middleweight, along with titles in other divisions. She last fought in February 2026, defeating Franchon Crews-Dezurn by unanimous decision to retain her heavyweight crowns.
Scott (5-1-1), a 42-year-old Australian from Sydney, enters as the unified WBA and WBC middleweight champion. She captured the vacant belts via majority decision over Olivia Curry in December 2025. The IBF and WBO titles remain with Desley Robinson, so tonight’s fight is not for undisputed status, but it represents a key step for Shields in reclaiming middleweight supremacy.
The event, promoted by Salita Promotions (in partnership with Wynn Records, Claressa Shields Promotions, and Route 30 Promotions), streams live on DAZN. The main card is scheduled to begin in the evening (times vary slightly by report, generally around 8–9 p.m. ET), with the main event expected later in the night depending on undercard length. Prelims air earlier on Zeus Network.
Supporting bouts feature additional women’s title action and rising contenders, underscoring the card’s focus on elevating women’s boxing. Shields has described the night as more than just another fight, emphasizing legacy, growth of the sport, and the significance of headlining a major arena in a cultural hub like Atlanta. Local officials have even proclaimed the day in her honor.
Tickets are available through Ticketmaster. Fans can expect a high-profile atmosphere, with reports of celebrity attendance and special ring-walk performances adding to the occasion.
Tonight’s historic main event puts the spotlight firmly on Shields as she aims to add to her already unmatched collection of world titles while continuing to push the boundaries of women’s professional boxing.
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Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. has been suspended without pay for the first eight games of the 2026 regular season after violating the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy, the league announced.
The suspension means Pearce Jr. will miss the opening half of the Falcons’ schedule and will not receive his salary for those contests. He will be eligible to return for Week 9, provided he fulfills any additional requirements set by the league.
Falcons’ James Pearce Jr. Suspended 8 Games for NFL Personal Conduct Policy Violation
The discipline stems from a February 7, 2026, incident in Doral, Florida, involving Pearce and his ex-girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson of the Los Angeles Sparks. According to police accounts and an arrest affidavit, Pearce—driving a Lamborghini SUV—followed Jackson, attempted to enter her vehicle at a stop, and intentionally rammed her car multiple times as she tried to reach the Doral Police Department for safety. Officers alleged he struck a police vehicle while attempting to flee and resisted arrest.
James Pearce expected all charges to be dismissed.
Jackson later told authorities she feared for her life. She detailed prior threats, verbal and physical abuse, and obsessive behavior during their three-year relationship and was granted a temporary protective order shortly after the incident. atlantafi.com
Pearce initially faced five felony charges, including two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon (using his vehicle), aggravated stalking, fleeing and eluding police, and aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer. Prosecutors later dropped the battery-on-officer count after reviewing body-camera footage and reduced the stalking charge to a misdemeanor, leaving him with three felonies and one misdemeanor.
In April 2026, reports indicated Pearce was expected to have all pending charges dismissed if he successfully completed a Florida pretrial diversion or intervention program. The program involves therapy and a period of staying out of legal trouble (initially reported as six months, with later accounts referencing a longer term). The victim and local police reportedly agreed to the resolution. Upon successful completion, the charges would be dismissed with no conviction on his record. Pearce’s attorney confirmed the terms at the time, and his legal team has maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings.
The NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy allows the league to impose its own discipline independent of the criminal justice process. The policy includes a baseline six-game suspension for first-time domestic violence-related violations, which can be adjusted for aggravating or mitigating factors. In this case, the league handed down an eight-game ban.
Pearce, selected by the Falcons in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, emerged as one of the league’s top young pass rushers in his rookie season. He led the Falcons and all rookies with 10.5 sacks and finished as a finalist for Defensive Rookie of the Year. He had been limited in offseason participation while the legal matter was unresolved.
The Falcons declined to comment on the suspension. The organization continues to prepare for the 2026 season without its leading returning pass rusher for the first half of the regular-season schedule.
Pearce Jr., a key part of Atlanta’s defensive line rotation, will now be unavailable for the early portion of the season as the Falcons look to build momentum. The team is expected to lean on other edge rushers and depth players during his absence.
The Falcons organization has not issued an immediate detailed statement beyond acknowledging the league’s decision. Players suspended under the Personal Conduct Policy generally remain under contract but are prohibited from participating in team activities during the ban, though they may be allowed limited access for rehabilitation or treatment if applicable.
This development adds an early-season challenge for Atlanta’s defense as the club prepares for the 2026 campaign. Pearce Jr. will be eligible for reinstatement after serving the eight-game ban
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Delilah’s Everyday Soul, the Atlanta soul food concept known for its Oprah-approved mac and cheese and bone-in fried chicken, is establishing its first full-service, standalone restaurant in South Downtown’s historic Hotel Row.
The new location at 227 Mitchell Street will mark a major expansion for owners Delana Winder Reeves and her husband, Jason Reeves. Named after Delana’s mother, Philadelphia restaurateur and cookbook author Delilah Winder, the brand has built a following through food hall stalls at Chattahoochee Food Works in Underwood Hills, Politan Row at Ashford Lane in Dunwoody, and Politan Row at Colony Square in Midtown.
Delilah’s Everyday Soul Opens New Restaurant in South Downtown Atlanta
The South Downtown site occupies a roughly 1,300-square-foot space in a more than century-old storefront along Hotel Row, one of Atlanta’s oldest remaining commercial corridors. Plans call for about 30 seats in a cozy, homey setting with curated décor, lighting, and music that reflects the brand’s Southern hospitality roots.
What’s On the Menu at Delilah’s Everyday Soul?
The menu will feature family recipes including fried chicken (as a plate or sandwich), fried seafood, sandwiches, a smash burger, collard greens, candied yams, cornbread, and the signature mac and cheese once dubbed “best in the nation” by Oprah Winfrey. Alcoholic beverages, with an emphasis on Black-owned brands such as Uncle Nearest, are also expected.
“It is an amazing, amazing area,” Delana Winder Reeves has said of the neighborhood. “I love the old historical feel, especially of Hotel Row. 227 Mitchell Street is the perfect place for us to open our first standalone Delilah’s Everyday Soul.”
The project forms part of the broader revitalization of South Downtown, a multi-block area near the Georgia State Capitol that has seen significant investment in historic building renovations, new restaurants, retail, and amenities.
Developers have attracted a growing roster of tenants, including Tyde Tate Kitchen (next door), Spiller Park Coffee, Broad Street BBQ, Glide Pizza, and others, while working to create a vibrant, walkable neighborhood.
Construction and build-out of the Delilah’s space progressed through 2025 and into 2026, with updates shared by the restaurant documenting details such as flooring, seating, and kitchen equipment installation (including adjustments to the ventilation hood that contributed to timeline shifts).
After earlier projections targeting early or winter 2025 and then spring 2026, the team announced a grand opening for August 14, 2026.
Delilah’s Everyday Soul continues to operate its food hall locations while expanding into this dedicated restaurant. The move represents a full-circle step for a concept rooted in family recipes and Southern cooking traditions, now planting deeper roots in one of Atlanta’s evolving downtown districts.
Where is Delilah’s Everyday Soul Downtown?
The restaurant is located at 227 Mitchell Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30303, in South Downtown. Visitors can reach it via MARTA (Five Points or Garnett stations) or by parking nearby. For the latest details on hours, menu, and events, check the restaurant’s website or social channels.
Delilah’s Everyday Soul is one of the best black restaurants in Atlanta, and there are plenty others. If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
The craze hasn’t escaped metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, which has seen a bar explosion in recent years.
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.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Chick-fil-A is rolling out a limited-time lineup that reimagines classic flavors, starting Aug. 24. Guests at locations nationwide will be able to order new Chicken & Waffles Sandwiches as both breakfast and entrée options, available all day to meet cravings from morning through evening.
Chick-fil-A Debuts Chicken & Waffles Sandwiches Nationwide Aug. 24, Alongside New S’mores Treats
The sandwiches launch alongside two seasonal desserts: the S’mores Milkshake and S’mores Frosted Coffee. The items continue the chain’s yearlong “Newstalgia”-inspired menu celebration, which puts familiar favorites in a fresh light.
The Chicken & Waffles Sandwiches, which previously appeared in a limited test in 2025, combine sweet and savory elements with Chick-fil-A’s signature taste. Each sandwich features maple-flavored waffles, a Chick-fil-A chicken filet, three strips of applewood smoked bacon and a honey butter spread. They are served warm with a side of classic syrup. Customers can choose their preferred filet—Original, Spicy or Grilled.
Two sizes accommodate different dayparts. The breakfast version, available from opening until 10:30 a.m., uses a smaller chicken filet and waffle. The larger entrée sandwich, offered from 10:30 a.m. until close, is sized for lunch and dinner.
The accompanying S’mores Milkshake and S’mores Frosted Coffee round out the seasonal offerings, giving guests additional ways to enjoy nostalgic flavors with a modern twist.
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Aye Tea Elle, the elevated tapas and craft cocktail spot in historic downtown College Park, will close its doors on Sept. 6, according to an announcement from co-owner Jovan Dais.
The restaurant, located at 3755 College St. has operated as a vibe dining lounge offering small plates, seafood, and creative cocktails near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
Aye Tea Elle Closes Down: What We Know
It features a full commercial kitchen, two bars, two outdoor entertainment areas, seating for 75–100 guests, an active liquor license, and a tobacco license.
In an Instagram reel posted Saturday, owner Jovan Dais wrote: “One dream is ending… but another could be just beginning. We’ve laughed, cried, celebrated, argued with vendors, survived inflation, egg prices, chicken wing prices, and people asking for ranch with everything… Closing Doors Sept 6th. Now it’s someone else’s turn.”
With him was restaurant partner, Scott Corbin.
The owners are marketing the space as a ready-to-go opportunity for a new operator interested in a restaurant, lounge, cigar bar, or event venue. “Skip years of construction, permitting, and build-out.
Walk in with your vision and make it your own,” the post stated. Interested parties can inquire via the restaurant’s website (ayeteaelle.com/dream-restaurant) or email info@ayeteaelle.com. Serious inquiries only.
Aye Tea Elle, whose name is a play on “ATL,” has been a popular destination on Atlanta’s south side for date nights, celebrations, and gatherings. It’s also been one of the best places to eat in College Park.
Guests frequently praised its ambiance, dishes such as lamb lollipops, fried lobster bites, jumbo lump crab cakes, and smoked cocktails.
It is a 21-and-up establishment known for private events and parties. Comments on the announcement referenced roughly six years of operation and shared memories of good food, happy hours, and community.
College Park sits less than eight miles southwest of downtown Atlanta and just minutes from the airport. The closure adds to a series of restaurant transitions across metro Atlanta amid ongoing industry pressures.
The space remains available for bookings and service until the final day. For more information or to inquire about taking over the location, visit the restaurant’s website or contact the owners directly.
Up the street, East Point continues to be a place with plentiful things to do, see and eat! If you like that part of town, don’t sleep on College Park either.
If you like barbecue, see our list of the Best Atlanta BBQ Restaurants.
As for eateries below I-20, these Southside Atlanta restaurants have developed quite a following.
More Food Coverage:
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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The City of Fairburn’s annual Seafood & BBQ Festival and Concert is heading back to Fairburn City Center on Friday, August 21, delivering a perfect close to the summer season with delicious food, live entertainment, and a strong sense of community in the heart of downtown.
Fairburn’s Seafood & BBQ Festival: What To Know
This signature “Fairburn Outside!” event promises an evening of flavorful seafood, savory barbecue, and performances by The Boykinz, J-WONN, Meeka Meeka, Mike Clark Jr., and Cupid. Hosting duties fall to DeeDee Parker of KISS 104.1, with music provided by DJ Antron.
Expect line dancing, festival eats, high-energy shows, and plenty of local community spirit. The event is completely free to attend. Organizers encourage visitors to bring lawn chairs, gather friends and family, and settle in for a night of music, culture, and connection.
More Fun in Fairburn
While the Seafood & BBQ Festival is a highlight, Fairburn offers plenty of other ways to enjoy the area year-round.
Stroll historic downtown Fairburn, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The district features late 19th- and early 20th-century commercial buildings and train depots, along with unique shopping, dining, and a walkable small-town atmosphere just a short drive from Atlanta.
Outdoor enthusiasts can head to Duncan Park for its pool, splash pad, playground, sports fields, and walking paths—ideal for families. Nearby Cochran Mill Park provides hiking, mountain biking, and horseback-riding trails through scenic woods, creeks, and waterfalls across hundreds of acres.
For active fun with a social twist, Swing ATL offers an 18-hole mini-golf course, axe-throwing lanes, vibrant murals, and a lively atmosphere suitable for families, date nights, or groups. Catch live theater at the Southside Theatre Guild, one of Georgia’s oldest all-volunteer community theaters, which stages dramas, comedies, improv, and musicals in historic downtown.
Seasonal draws include the massive Georgia Renaissance Festival (typically spring), complete with jousting, artisans, period food, and immersive entertainment on expansive grounds in Fairburn. Check out the Fairburn Farmers Market in season for local produce, crafts, and community vibes, or relax with craft beer at spots like Cochran Mill Brewing Company.
Fairburn’s mix of free community events under the “Fairburn Outside!” banner, historic charm, parks, and easy access to Atlanta makes it a welcoming spot for a day trip or longer stay. Mark your calendar for August 21, bring those lawn chairs, and experience one of the city’s can’t-miss summer celebrations.
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STOCKBRIDGE, Ga. — Panda Express opened a new location Thursday morning in Stockbridge. The restaurant hosted city officials with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in District 2.
City officials gathered to mark the opening, celebrating the arrival of the popular Asian-inspired fast-casual restaurant as another sign of ongoing investment in the area.
New Eats: Panda Express Opens in Stockbridge
Officials highlighted the addition as part of continued economic development and growth in Stockbridge.
“This morning, the City of Stockbridge proudly celebrated the ribbon cutting for Panda Express, officially welcoming this new restaurant to our growing business community in District 2,” the city stated. “We are excited to see continued investment in our city and grateful for businesses that choose Stockbridge as their home.”
The city extended congratulations to the Panda Express team on the milestone and expressed enthusiasm for the restaurant’s success as a new member of the local community.
The opening reflects Stockbridge’s efforts to attract businesses and support local economic expansion. City leaders have emphasized the importance of new commercial developments in strengthening the area’s appeal and providing additional dining options for residents.
Panda Express joins the roster of establishments contributing to Stockbridge’s expanding business landscape in District 2. Officials say they look forward to the restaurant’s positive impact on the community.
The city has some good restaurants in each quadrant of the city: East, West, North, South. All you need to do is think about what you have a taste for. Italian? Soul food? Tex-Mex? Atlanta has it all.
For the latest in metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene, stay with Atlantafi.com.
Here Are The Best New Restaurants In Atlanta
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Brookhaven’s signature culinary celebration is back. Taste Brookhaven returns on Thursday, October 1, at Brookhaven City Centre, promising an evening of unlimited tastings, craft cocktails, live entertainment, and community impact.
Taste Brookhaven Returns October 1: Unlimited Bites, Signature Sips & a Night Supporting Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
General Admission and VIP tickets are now on sale via Eventbrite for the highly anticipated event. This year’s proceeds will benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, turning a night of delicious exploration into meaningful support for kids and families across the region.
Guests can look forward to unlimited food tastings from more than a dozen of Brookhaven’s most celebrated restaurants. Multiple bars will pour signature cocktails and mocktails alongside wine, beer, and other favorites, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Live entertainment and performances will keep the energy high throughout the evening under the lights of Brookhaven City Centre.
VIP ticket holders receive elevated experiences, including access to a private rooftop pre-event mixer beneath the venue’s stunning Cherry Blossom Dome, an exclusive gift bag, and additional perks designed to make the night even more memorable.
Whether you’re a longtime Brookhaven food lover or discovering the city’s dining scene for the first time, Taste Brookhaven offers a vibrant, all-in-one evening of flavor, fun, and philanthropy. Secure your General Admission or VIP tickets now on Eventbrite and mark your calendar for Thursday, October 1—good food and a great cause await.
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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If you’re really trying to travel to Europe, might I suggest a magical place: Ireland. It’s spacious, the people are awesome and the countryside is like no other.
Of course, there are some things you should know before going to Dublin or another city in the European country.
If you want to know about what you should bring on your trip as well as what to expect going from Atlanta to Dublin, here’s everything you need to know.
Best Time To Travel To Ireland
When is the best time to travel to Ireland? The weather is normally on the chilly side, but not frigid. Even in summer, the temperatures are mid 60s at the highest. So, it’s wise to always bring a jacket, because a chance of rain is ever-present.
The summertime months of July and August are when airfare is the highest for Ireland. For the best fares, it’s best to book a flight in the spring or fall.
Can You Fly Direct To Ireland?
Nonstop flights to Ireland can be had from airlines like Air France and Aer Lingus. From Atlanta, your best bet is Air Canada or Delta Air Lines.
If you’ve ever flown international from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, you know that the quality of your experience depends almost entirely on how early you arrive for your flight.
Hartsfield asks that you be at the airport at least three hours ahead of time when flying internationally. Hartsfield has an updated international concourse that makes it more convenient, but it all depends on how long the security checkpoint lines.
The checkpoint requires that you have your ID as well as passport, so don’t forget it.
Flying from Atlanta to Dublin
Once on your flight, it’s going to take most of the day for you to get there. Ireland’s timezone is five hours forward of Atlanta, so if it’s midnight in Georgia, it’s 5 a.m. in Dublin. You’ll need to keep this in mind while flying, because it may well mean you’ll be jetlagged when you touch ground.
Once you land in Ireland, you’ll be shuffled down a series of stairs and into the customs line. There you’ll show your passport and state your business in the country. The customs agent will ask you where you’re staying, too.
Renting A Car In Ireland
If you don’t have someone picking you up from the airport, you may have prearranged a car rental at Dublin Airport. The good news is that the airport has all the major car rental companies that you’re familiar with in the United States: Budget, Avis, Sixth, Etc.
If you’re renting a car at the airport, the first thing you’ll need to do is venture just outside the building to one of the transportation zones, where a shuttle will transport you to the appropriate rental car hub.
The one thing that I heard about renting a car in Ireland is that they are pretty strict about getting you to take out additional car insurance, a damage waiver to be precise.
Your options were said to be either take the extra car insurance, which could be upwards of $30-$40 a day or show proof of primary auto insurance.
If you do the latter and decline the rental car company’s insurance, they’re going to put at least a $5,000 hold on your credit card. Yes, you read that right!
Another option, it’s been said, to get out of this extra rental insurance was to have a letter or email authorization from your credit card that covers car rental insurance. Because I had this very credit card, I called them and asked that they send me their card benefits, which lists your coverage.
Surprisingly, I didn’t have to produce said email. I simply told them that I had insurance and they took me at my word and promptly put a $5,000 hold on my card.
Here’s some good information from Chase about renting a car:
When you pick up your rental, be sure to inspect the vehicle thoroughly. If you see any damage, immediately notify the rental car company. Record any pre-existing damage on the rental car company’s check out slip. It may also be helpful to take photos of the vehicle’s condition at the time of renting for your records.
The major thing about driving in Ireland is this:
You drive on the opposite side of the street. That’s the reason why car rental insurance is so crucial in Ireland. In fact, I saw a statistic that said that around 90% of rental cars have damage to them.
On the car that I rented, the agent was sure to mark at least four pre-existing marks around the vehicle. I found a couple more.
Once you hit the road, driving on the other side of the road is unnerving to say the least. The good news is that Irish drivers are no where NEAR as aggressive as Atlanta drivers. In many instances, people never even switch lanes to pass me up and in no case was a horn every honked at me.
Exchanging Your Currency
The biggest thing to remember is when you leave the airport, you may find it advantageous to exchange your U.S. dollars for some Euros. For peace of mind, this makes sense, but literally only a little sense. Don’t exchange a large amount in the airport because frankly the exchange rate is cheaper elsewhere.
The exchange rate at Dublin’s Airport is expensive compared to elsewhere in the city. Your best bet is using an ATM in your hotel. Of course, you’ll want to call ahead to make sure they have one.
Checking Into Your Hotel
Ireland’s hotels offer wide ranges of experiences. No matter if you choose an old Celtic cottage for your lodgings or an expensive modern hotel in Center Centre, they all operate the same way.
Whether it’s a parking fee or if you want to borrow a phone charger, everything is charged to your credit card “on hold.”
Tipping In Ireland
Unlike the United States, you don’t have to tip in Ireland. You’ll notice that your meals will generally be cheaper. As you venture to more restaurants, you’ll find that many of the servers will be from other parts of Europe, like France or Britain. They’re going to expect tips!
The key is that one size definitely doesn’t fit all when it comes to tips. So it’s best to risk the embarrassment and ask your server.
People
The Irish are a hospitable people who are more mannerly than Americans. My interactions, even when I was holding up traffic, were super-pleasant.
Of course, as an Uber driver told me, there are good and bad in all people. But for the most part, the republic just wants you to respect its heritage and enjoy a good “pint” at the pub.
The Irish are a stylish people, especially the young adults. Adidas is clearly the athletic apparel of choice.
Places To Visit In Dublin, Ireland
Dublin offers plenty of tourist destinations for visitors. Among them are:
- Guinness Storehouse
- Jameson Distillery
- Dublin Historical Walking Tour
- Dublin City Bike Tour
- Blarney Castle tour (Cork)
- Game of Thrones tour (Northern Ireland)
- Cliffs of Moher (day trip)
The Irish tour guides are very cognizant of tourist traps. At every turn most of them will tell you whether an establishment is one or not.
“They charge 8 Euro for a pint of Guinness,” they’ll say, incredulously.
You’ll hear about the 850 years under British rule and the instrumental role that Daniel O’Connell played in the rebellion and Irish independence.
Cliffs of Moher
One of the most beautiful nature wonders in all of Ireland are the Cliffs of Moher, sea cliffs on the edge of County Clare on the country’s eastern coast.
The cliffs may be the grand finale, but the journey there from Ireland is worth the ride. Castles throughout the countryside mark pivotal points in the Irish fight for independence as well as relics of British nobility.
Miles of sheep and other livestock dot the lush landscapes as you travel farther from a Dublin to Ireland’s westerly coast.
The tour guide points out the small town where Barack and Michelle Obama stopped some years back as part of a president visit. A monument outside a pub makes the spot.
Cost To Travel To Ireland
To properly calculate the cost of travel to Ireland, it needs to include the things you really want to do and see in the beautiful country, not necessarily the airfare, which varies.
When I added up the costs of a hotel and food + activities and tours, here’s what it cost to travel to Ireland.
- Food: 267
- Hotel: 1100
- Activities: $60
To sum it all up, Ireland is a great country for visitors looking to have an enjoyable vacation. If you visit during June, the sunlight lasts from about 3:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
While Dublin proper is not as widespread as some European city centers, the core is packed with activity and the frenzy you’d expect in a metropolitan city. Ireland: Come for the pints, stay for the people.
Once you get your passport, you should be ready for your trip. Make sure you have found the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale.
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.
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.
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Up Next: Atlanta Travel Guide
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The Atlanta Food and Wine Festival 2026 presented by Invesco QQQ, returns for its 16th year September 10–13, 2026. It is a four-day celebration of Southern food, wine, beer, and craft spirits (with global influences), spotlighting Atlanta’s chefs, restaurants, neighborhoods, and culinary identity under the theme “The City is the Story.”
The festival (produced by a21) features signature walk-around Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods, the return of Whiskey & Fire Atlanta, and two new events: Stacked: The Burger Social presented by Mike’s Amazing and Southern Fried: A Fried Chicken Affair. Expect 150–200+ chefs, artisans, beverage professionals, and hospitality leaders, plus live music, activations, and the Publix Culinary Demonstration Stage.
Atlanta Food and Wine Festival: Here’s What To Know Before You
Main hub: The Home Depot Backyard at Mercedes-Benz Stadium (1 Backyard Way, Atlanta, GA 30313).
Other location: Whiskey & Fire at Guardian Works (775 Echo St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318). Additional experiences may occur at various metro Atlanta spots.
This signature event, a staple since its inception in 2011, will bring together renowned chefs, sommeliers, mixologists, and industry insiders for a weekend of indulgence, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of the South and beyond.
Approximate schedule (times and details can shift—confirm on the official site)
Event Schedule and Highlights
• Thursday, September 10 | The Atlanta Standard (Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods)
VIP: 6:30–10 p.m.; General Admission: 7:30–10 p.m.
Hosted by Monti Carlo (AJC Food & Dining editor). Celebration of Atlanta’s late-night eats, neighborhood legends, rising stars, and cultural icons with chef-driven bites, cocktails, wines, and live music. Tickets starting at ~$99.• Friday, September 11 | Flavors of Atlanta (Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods)
VIP: 6:30–10 p.m.; General Admission: 7:30–10 p.m.
Hosted by Andrew Zimmern. Focus on Atlanta’s international influences (Latin, Asian, Caribbean, and more) with high-energy tastings. Tickets starting at ~$109.• Saturday, September 12 | The Southern Spread (Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods)
VIP: ~12–3:30 p.m.; General Admission: ~1–3:30 p.m.
Hosted by Chef Shawn Osbey. Afternoon gathering of Southern hospitality, classics, and innovative takes with live music. Tickets starting at ~$109.• Saturday, September 12 | Stacked: The Burger Social presented by Mike’s Amazing
Early Access: ~6:30–9:30 p.m.; General Admission: ~7:15–9:30 p.m.
Hosted by Ford Fry. Creative, over-the-top burgers paired with cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits. Tickets starting at ~$89.• Saturday, September 12 | Whiskey & Fire Atlanta (at Guardian Works)
Collaboration between Heritage Fire and Whiskies of the World. Open-fire cooking stations with chefs, wood-fired bites, and hundreds of global whiskies. (Official event page lists Saturday; earlier announcements varied—verify current details.)• Sunday, September 13 | The Homecoming (Tasting Tents presented by Goya Foods)
VIP/GA roughly midday–afternoon (around 12–3:30 p.m. range in prior listings).
Hosted by Kardea Brown. Bold, smoky, savory bites with Sunday Funday vibes and Atlanta hospitality. Tickets starting at ~$99.• Sunday, September 13 | Southern Fried: A Fried Chicken Affair
Early Access/GA in the late afternoon/evening (around 4:30–7:30 p.m. range).
Hosted by Kelli Potter. Classic Southern and global fried chicken interpretations. Tickets starting at ~$89.Hosts of the Tasting Tents also lead live cooking demos at the Publix Culinary Demonstration Stage. Multi-day passes are available. Additional intimate dinners or experiences may be announced.
Attendees can expect a dynamic lineup of immersive experiences, walk-around tastings, and gourmet dining, all set against the vibrant backdrop of downtown Atlanta, with the festival entrance conveniently located across from Ponce City Market.
How Much Do Tickets Cost?
Tickets for the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival range between $89 to $109. Each ticket will include:
- Unlimited food
- Wine and beer cocktails
- All-day entertainment
Final Word
Among the city’s best festivals, the event is shaping up to be Atlanta’s premiere food festival with a focus on Georgia-grown talent.
Foodies will also get to enjoy a slate of dishes from the most beloved participating chefs around the South.
The festival is speedily approaching this year. If you’re planning on going to this year’s reimagined event, here’s everything you need to know.
Atlanta has just about everything you need for a fun time in a big-city. If you love to laugh, you should check out the best comedy clubs in Atlanta.
For those who feel like dancing or vibing to some music, Atlanta’s got some of the best clubs in the South.
Want to get out of the house during the day? Why not get some shopping in the city by patronizing local vendors with handmade goods, arts, crafts, candles, soaps, vintage and more.
