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If Atlanta, the nightlife includes dancing, eating — and some potent poetry. – If you’ve never stepped into a dimly lit room where the air crackles with anticipation right before a poet grabs the mic, you haven’t truly experienced Atlanta after dark.
If you’re looking for an open mic to hear some local talent, or you want to try out some new poetry, Atlanta has plenty of places to go.
Open Mics & More: Best Spoken Word Venues In Atlanta
Let’s look at some of the best places for spoken word events.
Apache Cafe
880 Woodrow St SW, Atlanta, GA 30310 | (404) 594-1170
If you want to enjoy one of the city’s musical gems, Apache Cafe is the place to go. Aside from being the venue where India Irie was discovered, patrons will enjoy the daily happy hour, food and drinks.
Red Light Cafe
553-1 Amsterdam Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 | (404) 874-7828
Red Light Cafe in Midtown Atlanta is your place to go to see local rock acts, reggae and other alternative vibes. Check out the Red Light Cafe events calendar.
Kat’s Cafe
If you’re looking for a lively night of creative arts, Kate’s Cafe in Midtown Atlanta may be just the thing. Neatly tucked away amid some residential homes at 970 Piedmont Ave NE, a short distance from 10th Street, Kat’s Cafe live music bar and restaurant is definitely one of those cool things to do in Atlanta on any day of the week.
With a weekly schedule of events that features Pangea’s Afrosocial, spoken word, karaoke, art, live music and more, this place is a must-visit. See upcoming events.
Urban Grind
962 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 724-0605
Here’s what one reviewer says about Urban Grind: “Even though I have lived in Atlanta for 3 years I am just now getting around to exploring new areas. I love Urban Grind for the atmosphere and the delicious paninis. Looking forward to future visits particular on open mic nights.”
iLounge Atlanta
1287 Glenwood Ave SE D, Atlanta, GA 30316 | (404) 627-9339
This Eastside Atlanta spot features spoken word, cocktails & hookah in an intimate, dimly lit lounge. A nice decorative touch is the mod sofas and an expansive dance floor & patio.
How to Fully Savor a Spoken Word Night in the City
Here’s your local’s guide to enjoying a spoken word performance the right way — whether it’s your first time at Apache Café, the Thursday night open mic at Kat’s Café in Midtown, or a feature show at the historic Wren’s Nest.
- Get there early, but not too early
Doors usually say 7:30 p.m., real ones show up around 8:15. That’s when the host is still playing trap-soul remixes and you can snag a good seat — close enough to see the poet’s hands tremble (or not tremble), far enough back that you don’t feel pressured when they ask, “Can I get a snap if you feel this?” - Order something strong, something sweet, or both
A rum punch from the bar at Vibes Night Lounge hits different when the poet is talking about their grandmother’s hands. A slice of red velvet from Kat’s Café tastes like forgiveness when someone on stage is finally forgiving themselves. - Learn the etiquette before you embarrass your mama
- Snaps over claps. Save the loud applause for the very end.
- No talking during the poem. That’s sacred time. Save your “Ooooh, she clocked him!” commentary for the break.
- If the poet says “This is for Black women in the room,” and you’re not a Black woman, your job is to listen twice as hard and clap twice as loud when it’s over.
- Let the poem hit you in the body, not just the head
The best pieces will make your shoulders tense up, your eyes water, or your foot start patting without permission. That’s normal. That’s the point. One night at Buteco in Grant Park, a poet named Truth killed the room into silence with a piece about his father’s last voicemail. You could hear ice melting in glasses. That’s Atlanta spoken word at its finest. - Stay for the open mic — that’s where the magic hides
The featured poet is great, but the 19-year-old who just worked up the nerve to read their first poem about heartbreak on the Red Line MARTA? That’s the one you’ll quote to your friends tomorrow. - Tip the poets if there’s a bucket
Most of these artists drove in from College Park, East Point, or Decatur on hope and a half-tank of gas. Five dollars feels like respect. - Take something home
Buy the chapbook, the $10 CD, the sticker. Ask the poet to sign it. Ten years from now, you’ll pull it off your shelf and remember the night the room held its breath together.
Atlanta’s spoken word scene isn’t just entertainment — it’s church, therapy, protest, and family reunion all rolled into one. Come as you are. Leave different.
Next spots to catch a vibe this week:
- Wednesday: “Lyricism & Libations” at Joystick Gamebar (Edgewood)
- Thursday: Kat’s Café Open Mic (Midtown)
- Friday: “Unbound” featuring Jon Goode at Riverside Epicenter (Roswell)
See you in the cypher, family. Bring your heart. Leave your phone on silent.
Final Word
No matter if you want to catch a comedy club, go out for a night of cocktails and hookah, or go to the club, Atlanta has it all. And if you want to eat in a special place, Atlanta new restaurants continue to pop up every week!
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
- Get there early, but not too early
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Donut Media, America’s #1 automotive digital entertainment brand, is bringing its wildly popular Big Trip series to a thrilling conclusion with a massive live event on November 22, 2025, in Atlanta, GA, proudly sponsored by Allstate.
Throughout fall 2025, Big Trip followed three teams as they each bought American-badged budget cars for just $3,000, modified them, and raced cross-country in an eight-episode YouTube adventure packed with head-to-head challenges.
Big Trip Finale Happening in Atlanta This Week
The grand finale, sponsored by Allstate, will be a spectacular track showdown—an obstacle course battle where drivers will be judged on cleanliness, precision, and style—filmed live in front of thousands of fans before the episode drops online.
This isn’t just a race; it’s a full-on car culture celebration. Donut creators, surprise automotive legends, and over 3,000 passionate fans will gather to witness the chaos, cheer on the teams, and crown the ultimate Big Trip champions.
“We couldn’t be more pumped for our second live finale,” said Colby Mann, General Manager of Donut Media. “Big Trip is all about honoring every corner of American car culture—from the screen to the open road—and now we’re bringing that energy straight to the fans in person. This is for everyone who lives and breathes cars.”
Since launching in 2015, Donut Media has redefined automotive entertainment, growing into a cultural powerhouse with over 20 million fans worldwide across YouTube, social media, podcasts, gaming, merchandise, and now linear TV with the 2025 launch of the Donut channel on Samsung TV Plus.
Event & Ticket Info – November 22, Atlanta, GA
- General Admission: $10
- T-Shirt Bundle ($40): Exclusive colorway Donut tee + sticker pack + raffle entry for the Big Giveaway
- VIP Experience: VIP parking, limited-edition tee + beanie + tote + sticker pack, signed poster, and Big Giveaway raffle entry
- Kids 10 & under: FREE
Fans in attendance will see the finale first, meet the Donut crew, and have a shot at winning huge prizes in the Big Giveaway.
Tickets and full series details available now at this link.
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In a powerhouse collaboration that’s set to light up the city and lift the financial burdens of countless young Black scholars, Live Nation Urban has announced the inaugural HBCU Aware Fest, a star-studded benefit concert pledging 100% of its proceeds to slash student loan debt for students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Slated for March 26, 2026, at the iconic State Farm Arena, the event is more than a night of music—it’s a bold call to action against the crippling $1.7 trillion national student debt crisis, with a laser focus on the disproportionate impact on HBCU graduates.
Atlanta Spotlight: Live Nation To Help Black Scholars
The announcement, made earlier today, builds on a groundbreaking partnership between Live Nation Urban, the Student Freedom Initiative (SFI)—the nonprofit brainchild of billionaire philanthropist Robert F. Smith—and the City of Atlanta under Mayor Andre Dickens.
HBCU Aware Fest isn’t just hitting the stage; it’s launching a weeklong activation in the heart of the Atlanta University Center (AUC), encompassing Spelman College, Morehouse College, Clark Atlanta University, and Morehouse School of Medicine.
Expect a fusion of high-energy performances, cultural showcases, educational panels, and community dialogues aimed at dismantling systemic barriers to economic freedom.
“We are sounding the alarm and setting the stage for systemic change,” said Keith B. Shoates, President and CEO of SFI. “HBCUs produce 25% of all African American STEM graduates, yet their students carry an outsized debt load.
This fest is about mobilizing action, closing the wealth gap, and creating sustainable pathways for our future leaders.”
The lineup reads like a dream bill for Atlanta’s vibrant music scene: Grammy-winning powerhouse John Legend, R&B sensation Coco Jones, Memphis rap firebrand GloRilla, hip-hop icon Jeezy, and a special performance from the cast of Alicia Keys’ Broadway hit Hell’s Kitchen.
More artists are expected to be added in the coming weeks, promising a night that celebrates Black excellence in entertainment while channeling every dollar raised directly into SFI’s Student Freedom Loan Agreements—innovative programs that forgive loans for HBCU grads committed to working in underserved communities.
Tickets go on presale Wednesday, November 19, at 10 a.m. ET, with general sale kicking off Friday, November 21, at the same time.
Early bird access is available now via the official site at awarefest.org, where fans can also sign up for updates on volunteer opportunities and ambassador programs.
This isn’t Smith’s first rodeo in the fight against student debt. In 2019, the Vista Equity Partners CEO stunned the nation—and the world—by pledging $34 million to erase the entire Class of 2019’s loans at Morehouse College during their commencement speech.
That viral moment sparked SFI’s mission, which has since forgiven over $200 million in debt for HBCU students nationwide.
Now, with Live Nation’s global reach and Atlanta’s unyielding spirit as the launchpad, the initiative is scaling up to touch thousands more lives.
“As the host city, we join Student Freedom Initiative and Live Nation Urban in launching this vital discussion,” Mayor Andre Dickens said in a statement. “We’re integrating the greater-Atlanta community into the planned events, highlighting our city’s Black excellence at our HBCUs, and providing their scholars the resources essential to grow, learn, thrive, and pitch in to Atlanta’s Group Project.”
For Atlanta, a city where HBCUs aren’t just institutions but cultural cornerstones—fostering leaders from civil rights icons to today’s tech innovators—this fest feels like homecoming on steroids.
The AUC alone educates over 10,000 students annually, many of whom graduate into a world where the average Black college borrower owes $43,000 upon leaving school, compared to $39,000 for white peers. Events like this could tip the scales, turning debt traps into launchpads for generational wealth.
Industry watchers are buzzing about Live Nation’s deeper pivot toward Black audiences, pairing the fest with a new creator platform that offers fair pay and visibility for Black content makers at events like One Musicfest. “It’s no accident this is launching in ATL,” noted one entertainment analyst. “The city powers HBCU culture and Black excellence—Live Nation is investing where the impact is deepest.”
As the Peach State gears up for spring, HBCU Aware Fest positions Atlanta not just as a music mecca, but as a beacon for equity. For students buried under loans, it’s a lifeline. For the city, it’s a reminder: When we lift our scholars, we elevate us all.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
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Buckhead Village is swapping Southern charm for alpine allure this holiday season, kicking off its Après Ski-inspired winter wonderland on Saturday, November 22.
The upscale shopping and dining district will deck its streets with glittering snow-capped trees, crackling fire pits, vintage ski gear, and ski-lift photo ops, inviting locals and visitors to escape the city bustle for a mountaintop-style getaway right in the heart of Atlanta.
Buckhead Village Après Ski Preview
Beginning the week before Thanksgiving, visitors will be transported to a mountaintop getaway complete with glittering snow-capped trees, crackling fires worthy of a cozy fireside lodge, ski-lift photo ops, snowy craft cocktails, plush decorations, and vintage ski gear that tap into the nostalgia of the golden eras of Alpine glamour.
Buckhead Village’s Après backdrop will offer a snow-kissed escape from the city, filled with endless holiday cheer and memorable moments.
Seasonal Menus
Snowy craft cocktails, spiked hot cocoa, raclette stations, and fondue pop-ups at restaurants like Le Bilboquet and The Southern Gentleman.
Final Word
As the city lights up with yet another special event this weekend, remember: Safe driving is the real treat. For more tips on navigating safely around the city, read our Atlanta Traffic Guide.
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In the heart of metro Atlanta’s growing demand for transformative off-site experiences, Paradise Park Atlanta has officially opened its exclusive 8-acre riverfront estate.
The facility, just 25 minutes from downtown Atlanta and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, aims to be the region’s go-to destination for high-impact executive retreats, team-building gatherings, and private leadership events.
Luxury Osasis Now Welcomes Corporate Groups in Atlanta
Set along a peaceful riverfront with lush gardens, modern wellness amenities, and flexible indoor-outdoor spaces, the venue combines productivity-focused environments with restorative elements designed to foster clarity, creativity, and team cohesion.
“Atlanta is a powerhouse for Fortune 500 companies, tech innovators, and diverse industries — yet leaders here often struggle to find nearby spaces that truly allow teams to unplug, recharge, and perform at their best,” said Savauna Sage, founder of Paradise Park Atlanta and a noted (W)holistic Living Specialist. “Paradise Park blends modern hospitality, nature, and healthy living in a way that supports focus and well-being, all without leaving the metro area.”
Conveniently located southwest of the city with easy access via I-20, Paradise Park Atlanta offers Atlanta-based companies and Georgia’s thriving business community a serene, nature-immersed alternative to traditional hotel conference centers.
The retreat offers customizable programs tailored for Atlanta’s corporate and association groups, including:
- Day-use meetings and workshops
- Overnight leadership intensives
- Multi-day team resets with guided wellness activities
With Atlanta selected as a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Paradise Park Atlanta also provides a private, tranquil lodging option for visiting executives, sponsors, and delegations seeking an escape from downtown crowds while staying within easy reach of Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
In 2026, the venue will host programs for the Black Montessori Education Fund, including educator training and retreats that align with Georgia’s focus on innovative education and community leadership development.
Limited exclusive-use bookings are available. Atlanta-area organizations are encouraged to reserve early for 2026 corporate off-sites and World Cup-related stays.
Visit www.paradiseislife.biz to submit an inquiry, schedule a complimentary retreat consultation, or arrange a private site tour.
Final Word
Atlanta has a lot of inspirational people and AtlantaFi.com is going to introduce you to many of them as well as cool places to go, great restaurants and other ATL happenings.
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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It’s that time again. Yes, pumpkin pie time. As soon as the Georgia foliage starts to turn colors, our tastebuds start to crave this sweet delight.
If you’re a “pumpkin head,” like many people, you want to know where to get the tastiest pumpkin pies right now in Atlanta.
Here’s Where To Buy The Best Pumpkin Pies In Atlanta
Here are some locations that sell the best pumpkin pies in Atlanta, according to reviewers.
Buttermilk Sky
3145 Peachtree Rd NE suite 165, Atlanta, GA 30305
If you want to order pumpkin pie, Buttermilk Sky is a great option.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Buttermilk Sky: “Preferred Place for Pie ! Apple is my favorite, followed by their Peach Pie. The Coconut and Pecan Pies are tasty but very sweet; try with coffee.”
Southern Baked Pie Company
Atlanta Locations:
- 3145 Peachtree Rd NE suite 165, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 263-0820
- 4300 Paces Ferry Rd SE #113, Atlanta, GA 30339
- 2685 Old Milton Pkwy #130, Alpharetta, GA 30009
When it comes to mail order pies, it’s hard to beat the Southern Baked Pie Company. If you order online, UPS typically delivers your within three days, but there may be a slight delay out of their control.
Here’s what one reviewer says about the Southern Baked Pie Company. “Amazing pie with amazing crust. A little price but worth it. If you are lucky enough to catch their blackberry or peach pie, which are seasonal items, stock up! The pot roast pie is amazing and decadent-tender pot roast layered with mashed potatoes. It is nothing short of incredible!”
Southern Sweets Bakery
186 Rio Cir, Decatur, GA 30030 | (404) 373-8752
Here’s what one reviewer says about Southern Sweets Bakery: “This place is amazing! I am truly thinking about going to buy some chocolate pecan tarts to take home for my family. A chef friend of mine recommended that i come here during my vacation in atl and he will now get a gold metal! It is a must try. Best pecan pie i have ever had!”
The Pie Hole
1025 Canton St, Roswell, GA 30075 | (678) 461-3776
The Pie Hole is one of the best places to order a pie for takeout in Atlanta.
Here’s what one reviewer says about The Pie Hole: “Amazing pies with a quaint atmosphere for dining inside or out on the porch. I wish it was open later so I could go after dinner for dessert. I got a slice of the thin mint pie and it was amazing!! Oreo crust and so creamy. Plus a super friendly person working the counter who helped me decide what to try.”
Kenny’s Great Pies
5200 Highlands Pkwy SE, Smyrna, GA 30082 | (770) 333-0043
One of Smyrna’s best-kept secrets is Kenny’s Great Pies, which sells some exotic creations that get rave reviews.
Here is what one reviewer says about Kenny’s Great Pies. “Not only are the pies delicious but the customer service is beyond amazing! My family loves the mango and the chocolate pies, so for our son’s birthday, we decided to have a mango pie instead of cake. When I called the corporate location to check on hours and availability, I was told that due to COVID the facility was closed for customers. I was able to contact Catherine at the facility and told her that I really wanted to get mango pie for our son’s birthday and she was very kind and arranged for us to be able to pick-up. Not only did she give us the pie but also included whipped cream and additional bite-size pies to serve as candles. She went above and beyond and truly made our day! Thank you Catherine and Kenny’s Pies.”
Do you like to know more about the city’s dining scene? Don’t miss the best new restaurants in Atlanta.Looking for some autumn fun in Georgia? Don’t miss these fall festivals. Also, don’t forget to keep up with the fall foliage map.
There are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.
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In a city known for its booming tech scene, film industry, and remote work culture, having blazing-fast internet isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity.
Whether you’re streaming 4K content from Tyler Perry Studios, uploading massive files for your startup in Midtown, or battling it out in online gaming from your Buckhead condo, Atlanta residents demand top-tier speeds. But which provider truly delivers the fastest internet in the Peach State’s capital?
Who Has the Fastest Internet Service in Atlanta?
As of late 2025, the crown for the fastest widely available residential internet speeds in Atlanta goes to AT&T Fiber, with symmetrical plans reaching up to 5 Gbps (5,000 Mbps) download and upload.
That’s enough bandwidth to download a full HD movie in seconds or handle dozens of devices without a hiccup.
Why AT&T Fiber Takes the Lead
- Maximum Speeds: AT&T Fiber offers plans up to 5 Gbps in many parts of the metro area, including popular neighborhoods like Virginia-Highland, Inman Park, and parts of Decatur. This is symmetrical fiber — meaning uploads are just as fast as downloads, perfect for video calls, cloud backups, and content creators.
- Availability: AT&T Fiber covers about 50-65% of Atlanta homes, with ongoing expansions pushing into more suburbs.
- Real-World Performance: Independent tests from sources like Ookla’s Speedtest consistently rank fiber providers highly, and AT&T’s multi-gig plans outperform cable in reliability during peak hours.
Close contenders include:
- EarthLink Fiber (which often runs on AT&T’s network): Also up to 5 Gbps, making it essentially tied for the top spot where available.
- Google Fiber: Up to 8 Gbps advertised in select areas, but current rollout in Atlanta tops out at 2-5 Gbps for most users, with limited coverage (around 7-10% of the city). Google Fiber shines in real-world median speeds (often over 300-400 Mbps consistently) according to Speedtest data.
- Xfinity (Comcast): Advertises up to 10 Gbps in very limited fiber pockets, but most Atlantans get cable internet maxing at 1.2-2 Gbps download (with much slower uploads around 200 Mbps).
Advertised vs. Actual Speeds: What Atlantans Really Get
While marketing claims can hit double digits, real-world factors like network congestion, wiring, and distance from the node matter.
Fiber optic service (AT&T, Google, EarthLink) almost always delivers closer to advertised speeds and symmetrical performance.
Cable (Xfinity) dominates coverage (nearly 90% of Atlanta) but can slow down during evening “prime time.”
Recent Speedtest data from Ookla shows Google Fiber leading in median download speeds citywide (around 347 Mbps), thanks to its efficient network — but that’s median, not maximum.
For raw top-end power, AT&T’s 5 Gbps plans are the go-to for power users lucky enough to have access.
How to Check What’s Available at Your Address
Availability varies block-by-block in Atlanta’s patchwork of neighborhoods:
- Enter your address on provider sites: AT&T Fiber, Google Fiber, or Xfinity.
- Multi-gig speeds require compatible equipment (like a modern router) and often professional installation.
The Bottom Line
If your address qualifies for AT&T Fiber’s 5 Gbps plan, that’s currently the fastest residential internet you can get in Atlanta from a major provider — and it’s symmetrical, reliable, and priced competitively (starting around $55/mo for lower tiers, with multi-gig plans higher).
Google Fiber remains a fan favorite for its no-nonsense pricing and stellar performance where it’s built out, and expansions continue. Xfinity wins on sheer availability but lags on upload speeds.
Atlanta’s internet landscape is one of the best in the South, but the “fastest” ultimately depends on your zip code. Check availability today — your next Zoom call (or Fortnite victory) might thank you!
If you really want to save money, you may be close enough to a public Wi-Fi hotspot that would make it unnecessary for you to even purchase home internet.
Depending on where you live, you may have some free internet options. Do your research before you buy anything.
Final Word
Along with the wonderful things to eat and do in Atlanta, there are also so awesome places to shop.
In addition to malls, many Atlanta boutiques and consignment shops have daily deals so that you can save money.
Atlanta’s retail scene continues to be a bright spot for the local economy — and that means more sales for everyone!
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In a city where “Peachtree” isn’t just a street but a state of mind, the Atlanta Hawks are stitching that spirit right into their uniforms.
On Wednesday, the team unveiled its 2025-26 Nike NBA City Edition jerseys — a vibrant revival of the beloved Peachtree design from the 2019-20 season — paying homage to the 71 streets across Atlanta that share the name.
Hawks To Rock Peachtree Edition Jerseys Soon
And Hawks fans won’t have to wait long to see them in action: the fresh threads will make their on-court debut next Tuesday, November 18, when the squad hosts the Detroit Pistons at State Farm Arena.
The Peachtree City Edition isn’t just apparel; it’s a wearable tribute to Atlanta’s “Forever Fresh” identity, blending the city’s bold culture, unapologetic confidence and relentless forward momentum. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Peachtree Street — the artery that pulses through the heart of downtown — the jersey unites all 71 Peachtree-named thoroughfares into one global statement of ATL pride.
“Peachtree” arches across the chest in a sharp, block-style font, replacing “Atlanta” for a sleek, street-level vibe that’s equal parts heritage and hype.
Visually, the design pops with a color palette that’s as Georgia as it gets: Fresh Peach evokes the fruit on every Peach State license plate and the warm glow of those sun-kissed streets; Ascension White symbolizes the Hawks’ championship chase and the city’s upward trajectory; and Infinity Black captures Atlanta’s ambitious, ever-evolving spirit.
Crisp trim in Fresh Peach and Ascension White lines the collar and side panels, while bold numbers and a heritage Hawks logo keep things sharp and purposeful.
Even the shorts get in on the action with curving leg stripes in Heritage Blue and Buttery Brown, tying back to the team’s classic roots. A subtle belt buckle motif nods to the markers that connect every Atlantan under the Peach umbrella.
This isn’t the first time the Hawks have rocked the Peachtree look — it lit up State Farm Arena back in 2019-20 as a fan-favorite ode to the city’s undeniable swagger. Now, with tweaks like the updated wordmark and modern Paze℠ checkout patch on the left sleeve, it’s evolved into something even more ATL-coded for the 2025-26 campaign.
The full City Edition package also includes a matching hardwood court design, transforming the arena floor into a canvas of Peachtree-inspired energy.Hawks faithful can snag the jerseys now at the official team shop, with options ranging from Trae Young’s Swingman edition to authentic on-court replicas starting at $110.
They’ll be worn in 10 home games this season, kicking off with that Pistons matchup on Nov. 18 and rolling through highlights like the Martin Luther King Jr. Day tilt against the Milwaukee Bucks on Jan. 19.
Final Word
From music to food to basketball, Peachtree represents how Atlanta continues to shape culture in ways that are bold, fresh and always True To Atlanta. Throughout the season, we will continue to uplift our community and celebrate the individuals, organizations and businesses that represent our city.
As the Hawks gear up for another run at the playoffs under head coach Quin Snyder, these jerseys serve as more than just a uniform — they’re a rallying cry for a city that’s always been ahead of the curve. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, Hawks Nation. Peachtree is calling, and it’s time to run the streets in style.
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The City of Atlanta is stepping up efforts to combat lead exposure by launching a comprehensive free Lead Hazard Reduction Training program open to all individuals aged 18 and older, as well as industry professionals.
The initiative, fully funded by the city, covers all courses, training materials, and certification exams at no cost to participants.
Officials say the program aims to equip residents, contractors, and property managers with the skills needed to identify and safely reduce lead hazards in homes and buildings.
Who Can Participate?
- General public: Any Atlanta resident 18+
- Industry professionals: Contractors, renovators, painters, plumbers, and property maintenance workers
- No prior experience required
Training Details
The program includes EPA-approved courses such as:
- Lead-Safe Certified Renovator (Initial & Refresher)
- Lead Dust Sampling Technician
- Lead Abatement Worker/Supervisor
All classes are held at city-approved training centers with flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend options. Upon completion, participants receive nationally recognized certifications valid for lead-related work.
Why It Matters
Atlanta’s housing stock includes thousands of pre-1978 homes where lead-based paint was commonly used. The CDC estimates that over 5,000 Atlanta children are affected by elevated blood lead levels annually, often from deteriorating paint, dust, or soil contamination.
This training isn’t just about compliance — it’s about prevention. Every certified individual becomes part of the solution.
How to Register
Spots are limited and filling quickly. Interested individuals can:
- Visit atlanta.gov/leadtraining
- Call the Lead Safety Hotline: (404) 546-LEAD
- Email leadprogram@atlantaga.gov
Some training courses have already happened. The first training cohort for the Lead Instructor Refresher begins December 2, 2025, with other sessions happening that week and the next.
This program is made possible through federal HUD grants and city partnerships with local trade organizations.
Final Word
Jobs are hard to find, but job content shouldn’t be. 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.
Read more: Best Work From Home Jobs In Atlanta, Georgia
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As the leaves turn and the holiday season approaches, a sobering economic chill is settling over Atlanta’s vibrant neighborhoods—from the bustling streets of Midtown to the family homes in Decatur.
New data from ATTOM, a leading provider of land and property data, reveals that U.S. foreclosure activity has climbed for the eighth consecutive month, with a 9% year-over-year increase in September 2025.
U.S. Foreclosure Surge Hits Home in the Peach State
This persistent uptick signals growing financial strain for homeowners nationwide, and Georgia’s capital city is feeling the pinch more acutely than most.
The report, released this week, shows that one in every 3,456 U.S. housing units received a foreclosure filing during the third quarter of 2025, up 5% from the same period last year.
Defaults—the initial stage of foreclosure, often a lender’s first notice to a delinquent borrower—jumped 21% year-over-year, while scheduled auctions rose 7% and bank repossessions increased 3%.
Experts attribute the trend to lingering inflation, rising interest rates, and uneven job recovery in sectors like hospitality and logistics, which are staples of Atlanta’s economy.
For Atlantans, the numbers hit close to home. Metro Atlanta ranked among the top 10 markets for foreclosure starts in the quarter, with a rate of one in every 2,145 homes facing some form of filing—more than double the national average.
This places Fulton County at the epicenter, where filings spiked 15% from Q2, driven by underwater mortgages in areas like East Atlanta Village and parts of Clayton County.
The broader picture underscores Atlanta’s vulnerability.
Georgia as a state saw a 12% increase in foreclosure activity, outpacing the national figure and reflecting the region’s reliance on service industries battered by post-pandemic shifts.
While the city’s tech boom in areas like Buckhead offers some buffer, lower-income suburbs such as South Fulton are bearing the brunt, with repossessions up 18% year-over-year.
Nationally, the heat map of foreclosures paints a stark portrait of Rust Belt and Southern struggles.
The top five metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) for foreclosure rates in Q3 2025 are dominated by cities grappling with deindustrialization and housing affordability crises. Here’s a breakdown:
Rank Metropolitan Area Foreclosure Rate (Q3 2025) Year-over-Year Change 1 Columbia, SC 1 in 1,456 homes +14% 2 Indianapolis, IN 1 in 1,678 homes +11% 3 Virginia Beach, VA 1 in 1,789 homes +9% 4 Atlanta, GA 1 in 1,945 homes +12% 5 Detroit, MI 1 in 2,012 homes +16% Source: ATTOM Q3 2025 U.S. Foreclosure Market Report
These figures highlight a troubling concentration: Southern and Midwestern markets like Atlanta are seeing filings at rates far exceeding coastal powerhouses such as New York or San Francisco.
In Columbia, the top-ranked city, economic fallout from manufacturing layoffs has fueled a 14% surge, while Detroit’s long-standing auto industry woes continue to erode homeownership stability.
Local leaders are responding with urgency. Mayor Andre Dickens is doubling down on affordability initiatives across the city, offering low-interest loans and counseling for at-risk borrowers.
As 2025 draws to a close, the foreclosure wave serves as a stark reminder of the fragility beneath Atlanta’s phoenix-like rise.
With federal aid programs set to expire next year, residents are urged to check resources like Georgia’s Department of Community Affairs for early intervention.
What Atlanta Is Doing To Promote Housing Affordability
Mayor Dickens launched a comprehensive plan to build or preserve 20,000 units of high-quality, affordable housing across Atlanta by 2030, targeting legacy residents, low-income households, and the unhoused.
As of late 2024, over 3,000 units have been delivered, with nearly 5,000 more in development, and 11,000 total completed or under construction. This includes using federal funds like ARPA for direct investments.
In another example, Mayor Dickens secured a $60 million bond—the largest single investment in homelessness in Atlanta’s history—to create up to 700 new deeply affordable units by the end of 2025.
This includes 200 permanent supportive housing units with on-site services and 500 quick-delivery modular units on city-owned land, aimed at rapidly housing the unhoused.
Final Word
In a city that’s always reinvented itself, the question now is: Can Atlanta forestall the next chapter of hardship?
For help with a pending foreclosure, read our guide on how to stop foreclosures in Georgia.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates on economic recovery efforts.
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