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.
-
All this Diwali are taking place soon in Atlanta, Georgia. The Diwali Festival kicks off with two very important partnerships.
Atlantic Station is teaming up with the Atlanta Film Society — a key player in the city’s arts scene, recognized for championing independent artists and organizing the renowned Atlanta Film Festival — and NaanStop, a beloved family-owned Indian restaurant in Atlantic Station, to bring you its inaugural Diwali Festival this month.
What Is the Diwali Festival?
The Diwali Festival, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a treasured holiday celebrated across India and around the world. The event is one of the best festivals in Atlanta.
Marking the end of the festive season, Diwali gets its name from rows of clay lamps (deepa) lit outside homes to represent the inner light that wards off spiritual darkness. Join Atlantic Station for a memorable evening of cultural festivities.
When Is the Diwali Festival?
The Diwali Festival this year is set for Tuesday, Oct. 29 | 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.. at Atlantic Station | Atlantic Green | 1380 Atlantic Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30363. Admission is free with two hours of complimentary parking.
Explore Your Atlanta
Atlanta has just what you need, not just today but every weekend. From exploring the city’s diverse restaurant scene to taking in a beautiful park greenspace or even checking out the hidden gems, Atlanta has some of everything.
First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
- Here are the REALLY FUN things to do in Atlanta
- Read our Atlanta Weekend Guide
- Where To Eat in West Midtown Atlanta
- Feeling adventurous? Here are some outdoorsy things to do in ATL
-
If you love to enjoy a nice libation from time to time and you fancy yourself an artist of sorts, then there’s no doubt you would enjoy sip and paints.
Atlanta has quite a few sip-and-paint experiences throughout the metro area. Do you want to know where they are? Keep reading.
What Are Sip and Paints?
A sip and paint is a fun, social activity where participants gather to paint a picture while enjoying beverages, typically wine or cocktails. It’s a relaxed and creative event, often held in a studio, café, or even a private venue, where an instructor guides attendees through the process of creating a specific painting step by step.
The goal is to provide a fun, interactive experience that blends art with socializing, and it’s popular for a variety of occasions.
The “sip” part of sip and paint typically refers to wine, though some events allow participants to bring their own beverages (BYOB). Don’t expect a full Atlanta bar. Some venues also provide or sell drinks such as beer, cocktails, or non-alcoholic beverages.
Atlanta offers several fantastic sip-and-paint experiences, where you can unleash your creativity while enjoying a glass of wine or your favorite drink. Here are some of the top spots to check out:
1. Studio W.I.P. Atlanta
1020 White St SW Suite R-2 Suite R-2, Atlanta, GA 30310
- Location: Midtown
- Vibe: Laid-back and fun, this place encourages creativity and relaxation. The staff is known for being friendly and providing excellent guidance for beginner painters.
- BYOB: Bring your own wine and snacks.
- Notable Features: They offer private events, date nights, and team-building activities in addition to their regular classes.
- Book at Spray Paint & Sip at W.I.P. Studio
2. Painting with a Twist
1230 Caroline St NE #240, Atlanta, GA 30307
- Location: Multiple locations (Buckhead, Sandy Springs, and others)
- Vibe: Fun and relaxed, with step-by-step painting instruction. Great for beginners and group events like birthdays or bachelorette parties.
- BYOB: You can bring your own wine or beer, and snacks.
- Notable Features: They offer themed events like “Paint Your Pet” and seasonal art.
2. Sips n Strokes
5212, 976 Jefferson St NW c, Atlanta, GA 30318
- Location: East Atlanta and multiple other locations
- Vibe: Casual and upbeat, perfect for a night out with friends. Instructors lead you through the process with a focus on fun and self-expression.
- BYOB: Yes, bring your own drinks and snacks.
- Notable Features: They focus on trendy, colorful, and easy-to-follow painting designs.
3. Muse Paintbar
925 Battery Ave SE Suite 1120, Atlanta, GA 30339
- Location: The Battery Atlanta
- Vibe: Chic and artistic, with a studio-bar setting in the heart of The Battery. Great for date nights or group events.
- Full Bar: Muse Paintbar offers its own bar with wine, beer, and snacks, so no need to BYOB.
- Notable Features: Their studio is also known for hosting special events and private parties, often tying in themes with seasonal or local events.
4. Pinot’s Palette
- Location: Johns Creek and Buckhead
- Vibe: Stylish and modern, offering a more curated, gallery-like experience. Instructors guide guests through the process, and the artwork is more sophisticated.
- BYOB: Yes, bring your own beverages, though some locations offer wine for purchase.
- Notable Features: They often host fundraisers and community events, making it a great way to support local causes while enjoying the art.
5. Art & Beyond Studio
8560 Holcomb Bridge Rd Ste 102, Alpharetta, GA 30022
- Location: Alpharetta, GA (just outside Atlanta)
- Vibe: A welcoming and relaxed atmosphere with friendly staff guiding you through each step of the painting process. Great for family-friendly events and private parties.
- BYOB: Yes, you can bring your own drinks.
- Notable Features: They offer art classes beyond just sip-and-paint, so you can explore other forms of creativity.
7. Paint Sip Socialize
1259 Glenwood Ave SE A, Atlanta, GA 30316
- Location: Mobile – available throughout the Atlanta area
- Vibe: Fun and interactive, they bring the materials and setup to you. Whether at home or a venue, you’ll get personalized attention and creativity in a relaxed atmosphere.
- BYOB: Yes, as it’s an at-your-place experience.
- Notable Features: They specialize in custom paintings, so you can select exactly what you want to paint for your group.
Each of these sip-and-paint places in Atlanta provides a fun, creative, and social experience, whether you’re looking for a casual night out with friends or a unique date activity.
Final Word
A sip and paint is great for a Friday or Saturday night in Atlanta. The vibe is usually light-hearted and fun, with music playing in the background, and attendees are encouraged to enjoy themselves and explore their creativity, even if their painting isn’t “perfect.
You can attend solo, with a group of friends, or as part of a larger event. It’s common for birthday parties, team-building activities, or date night.
Atlanta is known for its fun-filled weekends. From exploring the city’s diverse restaurant scene to taking in a beautiful park greenspace or even checking out the hidden gems, Atlanta has some of everything.
First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
- Here are the REALLY FUN things to do in Atlanta
- Read our Atlanta Weekend Guide
- Where To Eat in West Midtown Atlanta
-
Dressing up for an event or party has become a lost art nowawdays. When it’s time to put on an outfit, what will you wear?
The days of dressing all the way up may be over (for men or women), but you should still put a little effort into your outfit. Not only will you stand out, but you’ll feel more confident because you’ll look and feel good.
How To Dress Up (Men’s Style Guide)
This article is going to go over some men’s outfits for the nightlife as well as a day on the town. But before we do, here are some grooming resources you may enjoy:
- Best Barbershops In Atlanta
- Best Barber Chairs For Your At-Home Salon
- 10 Awesome Hair Clippers For A Reliable Shave
If you’re going out on the town in a city like Atlanta or even a smaller place, you’ll need to look your best.
In a big city, the simple reason is that there are people that you’re trying to impress that you don’t even know.
Here are some great outfits you can wear to the club, from stylish pieces to casual threads. No matter if you’re headed to the bar or to a surprise party, here is the men’s guide to dressing for a club.
Cloudstyle Men’s 3-Piece 2 Buttons Slim Fit Formal Suit
Men’s Linen Suit 2 Piece Slim Fit Suit Summer Beach Wedding Suit
Mizzen + Main Spinnaker Mens Slim Fit Button Down Dress Shirt
COOFANDY Men’s Casual Dress Shirt Button Down Shirts Long-Sleeve Denim Work Shirt
Woolly Clothing Men’s Merino Wool Button Up – Wicking Breathable Anti-Odor
To Ascot Or Not Ascot
That is the question, isn’t it. An ascot tie is a great way to turn a dull outfit into a sophisticated look with very little effort.
The thing with ascots is that a lot of people see the upscale neckbands as overdressing. You’ll have to decide if that’s the statement you’re trying to make.
If you’re an ascot kind of guy, I suggest you go for it. Here are some killer ascots from Amazon you might like:
Epoint Men’s Fashion Classic Paisley Cravat Silk Ascot
Colorful Luxury Ascot
Men’s Cravat Self Tie Paisley Jacquard Woven Luxury Ascot
I know you’ve heard this before, but the first thing a woman notices is your shoes. It’s true.
Shoes tell a woman that the care a man puts into maintaining his farthest extremity shows how he will value what’s closest to him. Great pair of shoes = a careful man who knows the importance of maintenance.
Best Men’s Shoes To Go Out In
Of course, not any kinds of shoes will do. You want to strike a balance between comfort and casual sophistication. Here are some of the best shoes to consider:
Cole Haan Men’s Grandpro Boat Shoe
Kenneth Cole REACTION Men’s Punchual Slip On
Stacy Adams Men’s Dickinson Cap-Toe Lace-up Oxford
Unlisted by Kenneth Cole Men’s Buzzer Oxford Boot
Final Word
When it comes to men’s style, it really comes down to how you feel. The clothes you need should be an accurate representation of what someone will experience when they interact with you.
The pros for dressing up include the fact that it’s often what our best selves look like. The cons with dressing up include the high prices.
Whatever you buy or however you choose to dress, remember, a smile is the best garment of all.
Shopping for men’s suits? Here is what a sharp winter coat looks like.
-
A high-quality, natural-looking wig closely resembles real hair, making it nearly indistinguishable from your own. Whether it’s made of human hair or high-quality synthetic fibers, the texture, movement, and shine can give you a very authentic look.
This article will show you some of the best natural-looking wigs you can buy online.
What Are The Most Natural-Looking Wigs?
For wigs with the most natural look, opt for human hair rather than the synthetic variety. And make sure it’s a good brand. While synthetic wigs may be more durable, nothing beats the organic and real look of natural hairpieces.
Natural hair has some characteristics that make it a top choice: Bounce and the way it blows in the wind and hangs off the head are easy clues as to a wig’s authenticity.
What Is The Most Realistic Wig You Can Buy?
There are many realistic wig brands that specialize in realistic-looking hairpieces. What they all have in common is that they typically use lace front, hand-tied hair that comes from India, Asia or Europe and is 100% real.
Here Are The Best-Natural Looking Wigs For Sale
Glueless Human Hair Pre-Plucked Deep Part Lace Frontal
Straight Lace Front Pre-Plucked Human Hair Wig
Human Hair Lace Front Wigs Transparent Glueless Brazilian Virgin Human Hair
Human Hair 180 density HD Transparent Lace Frontal Wig
Kreesi 360 Lace Frontal Wigs Body Hair Glueless 150% Density
Body Wave Lace Front Wigs Glueless Silky Human Hair
Deep Wave 13×6 Transparent Lace Front Pre Plucked Natural Hair
13×6 Kinky Curly Lace Front Wigs for Women 12A Brazilian Human Hair
Final Word
Natural-looking hair boosts confidence: Wearing a wig that looks like natural hair can boost your confidence, especially if you’re concerned about hair thinning or loss.
Many natural-looking wigs, especially human hair wigs, allow for heat styling with tools like curling irons and flat irons, giving you flexibility to change your look.
Wigs come in various lengths, textures, and colors, allowing you to try new hairstyles without committing to a haircut or color change.
-
If you’re traveling through the busiest airport in the world, Atlanta-Hartsfield Jackson International Airport, you’d better be prepared for long lines. The airport is known for notoriously long wait times due to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints being backed up with travelers.
How Long Does It Take To Get Through TSA At Atlanta’s Airport?
AM Times Time Taken PM Times 8 am – 9 am 16 Minutes 8 pm- – 9 pm 9 am – 10 am 16 Minutes 9 pm – 10 pm 10 am – 11 am 5 Minutes 10 pm – 11 pm 11 am – 12 pm 23 Minutes 11 pm – 12 am Annual Passenger Traffic:
- Pre-COVID-19: In 2019, over 110 million passengers passed through Atlanta’s airport, making it the busiest airport globally in terms of both passenger numbers and total flights.
- Pandemic Impact: During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, passenger traffic dropped significantly, with around 42 million passengers.
- Recovery: In 2021, passenger numbers began to recover, with approximately 75 million passengers.
- Recent Years: By 2022, ATL handled around 93.7 million passengers, continuing its recovery from the pandemic and retaining its status as one of the world’s busiest airports.
- In 2023, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport recorded approximately 104.7 million passengers, maintaining its position as the world’s busiest airport by passenger traffic.
How To Speed Through TSA Checkpoints at the Airport
Getting through TSA quickly at the airport can save time and reduce stress. Here are some strategies to help you expedite the security screening process:
1. Enroll in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
- TSA PreCheck: This program allows you to use dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes, which often have shorter lines and require less hassle (you don’t need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets). The enrollment process includes a background check and in-person interview. Once approved, it’s valid for five years.
- Cost: $78 for a 5-year membership.
- Global Entry: If you travel internationally often, consider Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck benefits as well as expedited customs processing when entering the U.S.
- Cost: $120 for a 5-year membership.
2. Use CLEAR
- CLEAR: CLEAR is a private service that allows you to bypass the ID check lines by verifying your identity using biometric data (fingerprints and eye scans). You’ll still need to go through physical screening, but it can dramatically shorten your wait time before the screening process.
- Cost: $189 annually (discounts may be available for certain credit cards or frequent flyer programs).
- Tip: CLEAR + TSA PreCheck is one of the fastest combinations to get through security.
3. Travel During Off-Peak Times
- Early Mornings or Late Nights: Airports are generally less crowded early in the morning or late at night, making security lines shorter.
- Avoid Peak Days: Busy travel days, such as Fridays, Sundays, and holidays, tend to have longer wait times. Traveling on midweek days (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) can be less hectic.
4. Check Wait Times in Advance
- Use the MyTSA app or websites like FlightAware to check real-time security wait times at your airport. Some airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, have their own apps that provide wait times for TSA security checkpoints.
5. Be Prepared for Screening
- Pack Smart: Place your liquids, electronics, and other items that need to be screened separately in easily accessible parts of your carry-on to avoid digging through your bag in line.
- Liquids: Follow the 3-1-1 rule (3.4-ounce containers in a 1-quart bag per person).
- Electronics: Remove larger electronics like laptops from your bag unless you’re in TSA PreCheck.
- Dress for Efficiency: Wear slip-on shoes and avoid metal objects like large belt buckles or jewelry. Place these items in your carry-on until after you pass through screening.
- ID and Boarding Pass: Have your ID and boarding pass (or mobile boarding pass) ready before reaching the checkpoint to keep things moving smoothly.
Final Word
Travel wait times in Atlanta will likely continue to trend upwards as global travel demand increases. Hartsfield-Jackson remains a crucial hub for domestic and international flights, especially given its role as a major connecting point for Delta Air Lines.
-
Hurricane Milton is bearing down on Florida’s west coast as tens of thousands of people flee north into Georgia. If you’re one of those evacuees, it’s no doubt you need resources.
This article will show you some free resources you can take advantage of in Georgia in light of the storm.
For Floridians evacuating Hurricane Milton, there are several free resources available in Georgia:
Shelters
Multiple Georgia state parks are offering shelter options for families fleeing the storm. These parks are specifically prepared to accommodate evacuees.
Here are some shelters available in South Georgia for Hurricane Milton evacuees:
1. Georgia State Parks: Various state parks in Georgia are open to evacuees. It’s recommended to check the availability and specific locations through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
2. Atlanta Motor Speedway: This facility has opened its grounds for evacuees, providing space for camping and sheltering.
3. Local Emergency Shelters: Various emergency shelters operated by the city and county authorities are prepared to assist evacuees. It’s recommended to check with the Atlanta City Government’s official website or contact local emergency management for specific locations.
U-Haul Free Storage
U-Haul has extended an offer for free self-storage, which can be particularly helpful for those needing to store belongings temporarily while evacuating.
Local Assistance
Check local county and city websites in Georgia for additional resources such as food assistance, safe places to stay, or any community programs designed to help evacuees.
FEMA Resources
Visit FEMA.gov for information on disaster assistance and resources available to those affected by the hurricane. For up-to-date information and resources, it’s essential to stay connected to local news outlets and official government announcements.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com: -
One of the heroes of the Falcons overtime win against the Tampa Bay Bucs was backup receiver KhaDarel Hodge. You probably don’t know much about him.
After a thrilling 36-30 overtime win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday Night Football, fans know exactly who he was. His 45-yard catch-and-run touchdown in overtime was the difference.
KhaDarel honed his football skills in small town Texas. After high school, he attended Hinds Community College, where he transitioned to wide receiver, for one season before joining the squad at a small HBCU in Texas, Prairie View A&M University.
He then went undrafted in 2018. He caught on with the practice squads for the Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions before signing with the Falcons in 2022.
KhaDarel Hodge finally got his star turn Thursday night against the Bucs. Here’s what he had to say after the game.
Here are some key details about him:
- Born: January 3, 1995, in D’Lo, Mississippi
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
- Weight: 208 lbs
- College: Prairie View A&M University
- NFL Career: He went undrafted in 2018 and was initially signed by the Los Angeles Rams.
Hodge has proved to be a pretty interesting guy away from the field. He’s active on Instagram, where he shares his humorous side.
Throughout his career, he has also played for the Cleveland Browns before joining the Falcons in 2022. As of now, Hodge has appeared in multiple games and has made significant contributions to his teams over the years.
Final Word
The Falcons schedule is shaping up favorably. Can they make the playoffs? Stay tuned.
-
Jamie Foxx is doing a couple of one-man shows this week in Atlanta. The actor and singer is no stranger to Atlanta, having filmed various movies in the metro area through the years. This time, he comes back as headliner.
The performances, which were originally titled “One More Chance: An Evening with Jamie Foxx,” are now being called “What Had Happened Was.” The show dates are Thursday October 3, 4, and 5 at t the Coca-Cola Stage at Atlanta’s Alliance Theater.
“Join us for an unforgettable one-man show as I share my journey through a serious health scare, filled with humor, heart, and inspiration,” Foxx shared on Instagram. “Experience a side of me you’ve never seen before in this intimate performance, where I’ll open up about my struggles, triumphs, and everything in between.”
He also wrote: “I have some people to thank in a big way. If you’re in Atlanta around that time and you’ve been rocking with me this whole time let me thank you personally.”
Final Word
Live performances have sort of become a nighttime occurrence here in Atlanta, with several venues hosting acts every weekend.
Georgia’s biggest city is also home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Opera, offering world-class performances for music lovers. Check out who’s performing in Atlanta. The city 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.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like: -
All you need is a paddle, a ball and a desire to get active. The pickleball craze has hit Atlanta in a big way. If you’re wondering where you can play, keep reading.
Before you play, make sure you wear comfortable athletic clothing and court shoes with good grip. Pickleball shoes or tennis shoes are ideal, as they provide the support and traction needed for quick movements.
In Atlanta, there are several places where you can play pickleball. Here are some popular options:
Piedmont Park Tennis Center
400 Park Dr. NE Atlanta, GA 30306
Located in the heart of Atlanta, this park has several courts available for pickleball.
Chastain Park
290 Chastain Park Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30342
The Chastain Park tennis courts also are pickleball courts and is a popular spot for both beginners and experienced players.
Blackburn Park
Located in Brookhaven, just north of Atlanta, Blackburn Park has dedicated pickleball courts.
Windy Hill Athletic Club
135 Interstate N Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30339
This facility offers pickleball among other sports and fitness activities.
Bobby Jones Golf Course
2205 Northside Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30305
This location has pickleball courts available for public use.
Perimeter YMCA
3692 Ashford Dunwoody Rd, Atlanta, GA 30319
They have indoor pickleball courts and offer lessons and clinics.
Atlanta Pickleball Center
1359 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd NW Suite B, Atlanta, GA 30318
Located on the west side, the Atlanta Pickleball Center is dedicated facility for pickleball enthusiasts, offering multiple courts and events.
Final Word
To get started with pickleball, you’ll need a few basic items:
- Pickleball Paddle: This is similar to a tennis racket but smaller and solid. Paddles come in various materials like wood, composite, or graphite.
- Pickleball: The ball is a perforated plastic ball similar to a wiffle ball. It comes in indoor and outdoor varieties, with different designs for each.
- Court: Pickleball is played on a court that’s 20 feet wide by 44 feet long. It has a net in the middle, similar to a tennis net but lower.
These locations often offer drop-in play, leagues, and lessons, so you can find something that fits your skill level and schedule. Get out there and get your pickleball on!
What other activities might you enjoy around Atlanta? Take a ride to the metro mountains of Atlanta. Or you might want to get physical by playing basketball around the city. Here’s more awesome and adventurous things to do around Atlanta.
-
The Atlanta Braves have been eliminated from the Major League Baseball postseason after Wednesday’s loss to the San Diego Padres.
Braves Manager Brian Snitka said despite the sour ending, he was proud of his squad.
“Nobody’s ever ‘woe is me’ or griping about anything, this or that, they just keep playing,” he said in postgame comments. “They kept working. Their energy never waned. Their attitude never waned. I’m about as proud of the team as I’ve ever been.”
The Braves began the season with pennant aspirations, but key injuries proved to be too much to overcome.
In 2024, the Braves have faced several key injuries that have impacted their season:
Braves’ 2024 Season Marred by Key Injuries
- Ronald Acuña Jr.: Placed on the 60-day injured list due to a torn left ACL, he is expected to miss the remainder of the season.
- Spencer Strider: The ace right-hander required season-ending elbow surgery after participating in only two games this season.
- Austin Riley: The slugging third baseman suffered a fractured right hand in mid-August and was ruled out for the playoffs.
- A.J. Minter: The key reliever is dealing with left hip inflammation.
- Huascar Ynoa: He is experiencing right shoulder discomfort, which has affected his availability. These injuries have contributed to a challenging season for the Braves, especially as they approached the playoffs.
Final Word
The 2024 season for the Atlanta Braves was marked by significant challenges but also notable achievements:
The team began the season with strong performances, maintaining a competitive position in the National League East.
Offensive Production Was an Issue
Despite the setbacks, players like Ozzie Albies and Austin Riley continued to produce, helping the Braves remain competitive in many games. With the injuries to key pitchers, the Braves struggled to maintain consistency on the mound. Their bullpen faced heightened pressure as younger pitchers stepped up to fill roles.
Final Word
The Braves managed to secure a playoff spot, demonstrating resilience throughout the season. They finished with a solid record, which allowed them to compete in the postseason, but they couldn’t win a game once October began.
Overall, while the season was hampered by injuries, the Braves still showed promise and competitiveness, setting the stage for a hopeful bounce-back in the following season.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com: