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Sonia Williams loves what’s happening in her neighborhood these days. The Sylvan Hills resident can’t wait for all the dust to clear at the corner of Murphy Avenue and Sylvan Road in southwest Atlanta.
”They’re starting to clean up all the vacant lots,” the Delta Air Lines employee said. “And when they enclose the lots in fences, that’s the look of progress.”
The ambitious Murphy Crossing redevelopment project is set to transform a 20-acre site in Atlanta’s Oakland City neighborhood into a vibrant mixed-use destination, with plans calling for approximately 625 new residential units.Located at 1050 Murphy Avenue, the BeltLine-owned property sits adjacent to the Westside Trail and holds potential as a future MARTA infill station site.
It lies near ongoing revitalization efforts, including the nearby Oakland Exchange project, which is converting historic warehouses across Sylvan Road into affordable housing and commercial space.
The Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. is leading the effort as master planner and co-developer following the termination of a prior development agreement with Culdesac Inc. and Urban Oasis in early 2025.
The organization now plans to issue phased requests for proposals (RFPs) to select development partners.
Key elements of the proposed buildout, spread across five phases, include:
- A blend of apartments and townhomes totaling roughly 625 units (specific affordable vs. market-rate breakdowns will likely emerge in future RFPs, with expectations for some affordable and for-sale commitments).
- Around 82,000 square feet of commercial space.
- Approximately 70,000 square feet dedicated to retail.
- Roughly 103,000 square feet of light-industrial uses, which could range from makers spaces and barbershops to veterinarian clinics.
- Preservation of existing historic warehouses as an integral part of the design.
- A total of 1,711 parking spaces, including 786 allocated for non-residential uses.
The project is currently in the entitlement phase. Pre-development milestones have been completed, and community engagement continues.
A Development of Regional Impact (DRI) review and City of Atlanta rezoning application are expected to wrap up in winter or early spring 2026. Horizontal site work and land-disturbance permitting are targeted for fall/winter 2026, with Phase 1 RFP releases on the horizon.
Andrea Foard, the BeltLine’s senior development manager, emphasized a phased approach: “We’re not going to develop this all at one time.”
Ryan Snodgrass, a senior urban designer at Perkins & Will, highlighted the flexibility of the light-industrial component, noting it could accommodate diverse small-scale businesses.
As planning advances through 2026, local residents and advocates are expected to advocate strongly for firm commitments around affordable housing levels, support for neighborhood-serving retail, job creation, and other community benefits during ongoing engagement sessions.
The site is viewed as a major catalyst for growth in southwest Atlanta, leveraging its BeltLine proximity and transit potential to drive economic activity while balancing historic preservation and new density.
Downtown Atlanta’s development landscape has undergone significant transformation in recent years, driven by large-scale mixed-use projects, infrastructure upgrades, and a focus on revitalizing the city’s historic core. These changes reflect a broader effort to make Downtown more vibrant, walkable, and economically robust, particularly in preparation for events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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It won’t be anything historic, but this winter storm is one to watch.
The National Weather Service in Peachtree City has upgraded its Freeze Watch to a full Freeze Warning for most of North and Central Georgia, including all of metro Atlanta.
The warning goes into effect at 11 p.m. tonight (Monday, March 16) and continues until 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 17.
Freeze Warning in Effect for Metro Atlanta: Prepare for Hard Freeze Tonight
Overnight lows are forecast to drop into the mid- to upper 20s, with some spots possibly reaching near 20°F. Winds will make it feel even colder. A hard freeze is likely, posing a significant risk to any spring vegetation, crops, and unprotected outdoor plumbing.
This sharp cooldown follows Monday’s stormy weather and strong cold front. Another round of sub-freezing temperatures is possible again Wednesday morning, so stay alert for updates.
Warming centers are open across the region for anyone without adequate heat. Check with your county emergency management office or visit Atlanta News First for locations and hours.
Steps to Stay Warm and Safe
Here are simple, effective ways to protect yourself and your family during this brief but intense cold snap:
- Layer up indoors and out: Wear multiple thin layers of clothing. Keep hats, gloves, and scarves handy even inside.
- Stay inside if possible: Limit time outdoors, especially after dark. Check on elderly neighbors, young children, and pets.
- Use blankets and space heaters safely: Electric blankets and battery-powered devices are great. Never use ovens, grills, or stoves for heat.
- Keep pets inside: Bring dogs, cats, and other animals indoors or into a sheltered, heated space.
- Hydrate and eat well: Warm soups, teas, and hearty meals help maintain body heat.
- Have an emergency plan: Keep flashlights, extra batteries, and a battery-powered radio ready in case power goes out.
Vulnerable residents (seniors, those with medical conditions, or no heat) should head to a warming center immediately.
Home Maintenance Tips to Prevent Damage
A hard freeze this late in March can catch homeowners off guard. Follow these quick steps now while it’s still daylight:
- Protect your pipes: Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate. Let faucets drip slowly (a thin stream) overnight. Disconnect and drain garden hoses.
- Insulate outdoor spigots and exposed pipes: Wrap them with towels, foam covers, or old blankets and secure with duct tape.
- Safeguard plants: Bring potted plants indoors. Cover in-ground flowers, vegetables, and shrubs with frost cloth, old sheets, or mulch. Avoid plastic that can trap moisture.
- Check your heating system: Test your furnace or heat pump now. Replace air filters if needed and keep vents clear.
- Prep your car: Park in a garage if possible. Have an ice scraper ready and check your battery and antifreeze.
- Unplug outdoor electronics: Bring in string lights, extension cords, and tools that could be damaged by freezing.
Final Word
The National Weather Service stresses that this freeze could damage early spring growth, so farmers and gardeners should take extra precautions.
Stay warm and safe, Atlanta! This cold snap should be short-lived—warmer air returns by mid-week.
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This weekend, a swath of a major thoroughfare in Georgia’s largest city will be transformed into a pedestrian oasis. Atlanta Streets Alive is happening again and if you don’t know, it’s free.
This free, family-friendly event transforms Peachtree Street into a car-free zone for walking, biking, and playing. Enjoy live music, street performances, and community activities that promote active transportation.
Where Is Atlanta Streets Alive This Weekend?
Atlanta Streets Alive 2026 returns with seven scheduled dates, starting March 22, 2026, featuring new routes including MLK Jr. Drive, Peachtree St, and the Westside Stride.
Events generally run from 2 PM – 6 PM, with streets closed to traffic to allow walking, biking, and skating, often aligning with FIFA World Cup festivities.
Atlanta Streets Alive: What to Bring
To make the most of your Atlanta Streets Alive experience, here’s a concise list of recommended items to bring, based on the event’s nature as a car-free, outdoor, community-focused activity:
- Comfortable shoes or gear: Bring sneakers for walking, a bicycle, skates, or a scooter for exploring the route. Electric bikes/scooters are allowed but keep speeds safe. Bike repair stations are available, but a basic repair kit (tire pump, patch kit) is handy.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated during the event, especially in Atlanta’s warm weather. Refill stations may be available at activity hubs.
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, hats, or sunglasses for daytime events, as it’s a rain-or-shine outdoor event.
Atlanta Streets Alive: A History
Atlanta Streets Alive is an open streets initiative that temporarily closes city streets to cars, creating car-free spaces for people to walk, bike, skate, and engage in community activities.
It promotes active transportation, community engagement, local businesses, and sustainable urban living, inspired by global open streets movements like Bogotá’s Ciclovía. The program is presented by the Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT) with support from Propel ATL and the Atlanta community.
It began in May 2010, organized by the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition (now part of Propel ATL), with the first event closing 1.5 miles of streets in Downtown Atlanta for recreational use.
Final Word
In addition to Streets Alive, Atlanta is alive in other ways this weekend. The city is also home to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Opera, offering world-class performances for music lovers.Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots.
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Atlant, GA – March 13, 2026 – The Atlanta Falcons’ quarterback situation remains wide open heading into the 2026 season, and new general manager Ian Cunningham made that crystal clear during a virtual news conference on Friday.
Speaking about the team’s recent signing of veteran quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year deal following his release from the Miami Dolphins, Cunningham stressed that no one is handed the starting job.
“For Tua coming in here, he knows he’s coming in here to compete, like Michael (Penix Jr.) knows he is coming in to compete, everybody quite frankly, not just those two at the quarterback position,” Cunningham said. “There are no starters right now.”
The comments come after the Falcons agreed to terms with Tagovailoa, a former Pro Bowl selection known for his quick release and accuracy. Tagovailoa was in Flowery Branch on Friday undergoing his physical, making the move official pending final paperwork.
Meanwhile, Michael Penix Jr., the left-handed quarterback drafted eighth overall in 2024, is working his way back from a torn ACL suffered in November.
Penix has shown flashes in limited action but enters the offseason as a competitor rather than the presumed starter.
Cunningham’s remarks underscore a merit-based approach under the new regime, which includes president of football operations Matt Ryan, head coach Kevin Stefanski, and the revamped front office. The team has prioritized open competition across the roster as it looks to rebound from back-to-back 8-9 seasons.
“Everybody’s coming in to compete,” Cunningham reiterated. “That’s just how we operate. We want to have open conversations and communication. I feel like we did that in regards to Michael and Tua.”
The Falcons have already communicated directly with Penix—Stefanski spoke with him personally, and Cunningham reached out via his agent—ensuring transparency amid the addition of Tagovailoa.
With both quarterbacks being left-handed, the setup allows for schematic continuity in Stefanski’s offense, which emphasizes quick decisions, timing routes, and yards after catch. Tagovailoa’s experience could provide stability while Penix continues his rehab, but nothing is guaranteed.
Fans in Atlanta can expect a real battle this spring and summer as the team builds toward training camp. In Cunningham’s view, competition breeds excellence—and right now, the QB1 job is up for grabs.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFalconsNews.com for more updates on the Falcons’ quarterback competition, free agency moves, and preparations for the 2026 season.
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ATLANTA, GA – March 13, 2026 – Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) riders can look forward to riding in modern, state-of-the-art trains this summer, with the first of the agency’s long-awaited CQ400 series railcars scheduled to begin revenue service “on or before” June 5, according to Interim General Manager and CEO Jonathan Hunt.
The announcement comes as MARTA ramps up preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will bring eight matches to Mercedes-Benz Stadium (referred to in some planning as Atlanta Stadium) starting in mid-June.
New MARTA Train to Enter Passenger Service by June 5 Ahead of FIFA World Cup
The new trains are seen as a key part of ensuring smoother, more reliable service during what is expected to be one of the busiest periods in the system’s history.
Hunt shared the updated timeline during recent discussions with state legislators and in agency updates, emphasizing MARTA’s focus on delivering tangible improvements for daily commuters and major-event visitors alike.
The CQ400 cars, manufactured as part of a $700 million+ investment to replace aging fleet vehicles, feature open gangways for easier movement between cars, forward-facing seating, USB charging stations, real-time information displays, enhanced safety monitoring, and a noticeably quieter, smoother ride compared to current trains.
Testing of the new railcars has been progressing steadily, with multiple units already undergoing rigorous on-track evaluations, including high-speed runs under their own power.
Four train sets are currently in testing phases, and agency leaders have expressed confidence in meeting the aggressive rollout schedule.
“We are laser-focused on project delivery,” Hunt has stated in recent interviews and briefings. The goal is to have 5 to 7 of the new train sets in regular service by the time World Cup crowds arrive, helping accommodate the anticipated surge in ridership for matches and related events.
MARTA’s broader 2026 transformation plan—branded as “New Year, New MARTA”—includes additional upgrades timed for the global soccer tournament, such as the rollout of contactless “Better Breeze” fare payment (allowing taps with credit cards, smartphones, or smartwatches), station enhancements for cleanliness and multilingual signage, increased security presence, and expanded bus and rail operations around key venues like Five Points, GWCC, Vine City, and SEC District stations.
While the World Cup has accelerated timelines for several projects, Hunt has stressed that these investments represent long-term commitments to modernizing transit in metro Atlanta, not just event-specific fixes.
The CQ400 series rollout will continue over the coming years, with a total of 56 new train sets planned to gradually replace older models and boost overall capacity and reliability.
MARTA encourages riders to stay tuned to its official channels for more details on the exact launch date and initial routes for the new trains.
As Atlanta prepares to welcome the world this summer, the agency says these improvements will help ensure that transit remains a safe, convenient, and welcoming option for getting to the action.
For the latest updates, visit itsmarta.com or follow @MARTAtransit on social media.
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Atlanta, GA – March 13, 2026 – As spring arrives in the city, Atlantic Station is gearing up for another season of its beloved Screen on the Green series, bringing free Hollywood favorites to one of Atlanta’s largest outdoor screens at Atlantic Green.
The popular event series runs on the last Thursday of each month from March through October, starting at 7 p.m., and invites Atlantans to grab a blanket, gather with friends and family, and enjoy a cinematic experience under the stars—all at no cost.
Screen on the Green Returns to Atlantic Station: Free Outdoor Movie Nights Begin
Admission is always free and open to the public, making it an accessible way for residents and visitors alike to enjoy community-focused entertainment in the heart of Midtown.
Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets or low-back chairs to stake out a spot on the expansive lawn.
This year’s lineup celebrates a variety of holidays, cultural observances, and community partnerships with thoughtfully selected films and special activations:
- March 26: Barbie
Kick off the series by celebrating Women’s History Month with the bold, colorful, and fun blockbuster Barbie. Expect big-screen energy and plenty of pink vibes to start the season right. - April 30: Wall-E
Closing out Earth Month, Atlantic Station screens the eco-friendly animated classic Wall-E, highlighting themes of sustainability and environmental care. - May 28: The Farewell
In honor of Asian Pacific Heritage Month, enjoy the heartfelt film The Farewell. The evening includes complimentary mahjong lessons with Metro Mahjong, plus treats from Ronlaire Dumplings and Boba Mocha for a fully immersive cultural experience. - June 25: Inside Out 2
Partnering with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America to mark National Boys and Girls Club Week, the night features the highly anticipated Inside Out 2 for a community-centered movie outing perfect for all ages. - July 30: Charlotte’s Web
Recognizing National Paperback Book Day, the event pairs a book-inspired activation with the timeless family favorite Charlotte’s Web. - August 27: Good Burger
Celebrating National Burger Day, Atlantic Station serves up themed fun alongside the cult-classic comedy Good Burger. (Pro tip: Grab a burger at BGR The Burger Joint beforehand to join in the spirit!) - September 24: The Blind Side
As football season gets underway, the inspirational sports drama The Blind Side takes the screen to kick off fall vibes. - October 29: Beetlejuice
Embrace spooky season with Tim Burton’s quirky classic Beetlejuice, complete with a Halloween-inspired celebration on Atlantic Green.
Screen on the Green has long been a favorite among locals for its relaxed, picnic-style atmosphere and family-friendly programming. Whether you’re looking for date-night nostalgia, cultural celebrations, or just a fun evening out with the kids, these monthly gatherings offer something for everyone.
Final Word
Atlantic Green is located at Atlantic Station (1380 Atlantic Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30363). For the latest updates, parking info, or any weather-related changes, visit atlanticstation.com or follow @AtlanticStation on social media.
Mark your calendars—Screen on the Green starts next week on March 26. See you on the lawn!
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- March 26: Barbie
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With just 94 days remaining until the first whistle blows on June 15, 2026, Atlanta is in major upgrade mode to host eight matches of the FIFA World Cup, including a high-stakes semifinal and an opening group stage clash between Spain and Cabo Verde.
The city anticipates welcoming around 500,000 visitors, injecting fresh energy into its streets, stadiums, and economy.
Drawing parallels to the 1996 Olympics—now three decades past—Atlanta is leveraging this global spotlight to address long-standing infrastructure needs while sparking debates among locals about whether these upgrades are event-driven necessities or overdue civic improvements.
Infrastructure Overhauls: Paving the Way for Global Guests
Atlanta’s downtown is undergoing a rapid facelift, with crews racing to complete road resurfacing, lighting upgrades, and beautification projects before the influx of fans.
These efforts, coordinated by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), include restriping roads, enhancing pedestrian pathways, and installing new signage to ensure smooth navigation.
City Chief Operating Officer LaChandra Burks has openly acknowledged the short-term inconveniences, such as lane closures causing traffic snarls and discomfort for residents. However, she emphasizes that these are “long-overdue fixes” tackling persistent issues like potholes and aging infrastructure that have plagued the city since the 1996 Olympics.
Locals are divided on the motivations behind the timing. Some view the preparations as a World Cup-fueled catalyst, accelerating projects that might otherwise languish in bureaucratic limbo.
Others argue it’s simply time for essential maintenance, regardless of the tournament. As one resident noted in community discussions, ongoing MARTA station issues—like faulty payment kiosks and maintenance lapses—highlight that while the event is a boon, it shouldn’t overshadow everyday reliability needs.
Adding a creative touch, students from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) have designed an “Atlanta’s Last Mile” way-finding system.
This zoned approach uses soccer-themed imagery to guide non-English speakers from transit hubs, hotels, and key sites to Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the Fan Festival. SCAD is also contributing public art, including murals, branded soccer ball installations, and pieces aimed at boosting walkability and leaving a lasting legacy.
Transportation Upgrades: Keeping the City MovingOfficials from GDOT, MARTA, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport have assured the public that preparations are on track, with a comprehensive “playbook” in place to manage traffic across all modes—driving, walking, biking, and public transit.
- MARTA’s Enhancements: The transit agency is rolling out a new fare payment system in the coming weeks, enabling tap-to-pay with credit cards or mobile devices—no Breeze card required. This marks MARTA’s largest financial tech investment in two decades. Additional trains will run at shorter intervals on match days, with overflow buses on standby.
- Multilingual announcements in languages tied to participating teams, along with hundreds of transit ambassadors in updated uniforms featuring the rail map, will assist visitors.
- Commemorative World Cup Breeze cards are also in production. A billion-dollar station rehabilitation program prioritizes stops near the stadium and Fan Festival, while new trains, contactless payments, and faster Bus Rapid Transit routes aim to handle the surge efficiently. @GAFollowers MARTA is actively discouraging driving, with ads urging fans to opt for public transit to avoid gridlock.
- Hartsfield-Jackson Airport: As the world’s busiest airport, it’s bracing for up to 500,000 travelers during the tournament—nearly double its daily average.
- Upgrades include a new south parking deck opening in May, renovated bathrooms, and improved signage. Deputy General Manager Augustus Hudson stresses that operations will remain seamless, building on the airport’s experience with major events. scarvesandspikes.com
- Surface Streets and Traffic Management: GDOT’s traffic center will monitor in real time, using interstate signs for updates. The focus is on minimizing disruptions while accommodating the massive crowds.
These measures echo lessons from the 1996 Olympics, with leaders encouraging residents to embrace the event through watch parties or Fan Festival visits rather than fleeing the city.
Fan Experiences and Security: A Safe, Vibrant Welcome
The FIFA Fan Festival at Centennial Olympic Park will be the heart of the action, opening June 12 for 16 days. It features four zones: a Main Stage for concerts and match screenings on a 40-foot screen; a Playground with family-friendly games; a Pitch for community events, podcasts, and tech-enhanced experiences; and Georgia Street highlighting local artists and cuisine.
Tickets are available via the official site.
Security remains a priority, with Atlanta police coordinating with partners and awaiting FEMA funding for enhancements.
Initiatives like drone detection and community safety efforts are ramping up, alongside youth soccer programs and small business opportunities to ensure broad benefits.
The “Showcase Atlanta” program offers loans, workshops, and seminars to help local businesses capitalize on the visitors, spreading economic impact beyond downtown.
Fulton County projects over 300,000 visitors and a $500 million economic boost, underscoring the tournament’s scale—equivalent to hosting 12 Super Bowls.
Looking Ahead: Legacy and Excitement
As panels at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and recent FIFA workshops demonstrate, Atlanta’s preparations are in the final stretch. The city’s soccer heritage, from Atlanta United’s passionate fans to its role in the expanded 48-team tournament, positions it as a key host.
While challenges like traffic and station upkeep persist, the overarching sentiment is one of optimism. Atlanta isn’t just fixing up for the World Cup—it’s building a legacy that echoes its Olympic past and propels it forward.
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Everybody’s going green this weekend in Atlanta as the city celebrates St Patrick’s Day in a major way. Atlanta offers a variety of events to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Here are some notable festivities:
Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade
- Date & Time: Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 12:00 PM
- Location: Peachtree Street and 15th Street, Midtown Atlanta
- Details: As one of the country’s oldest St. Patrick’s Day parades, dating back to 1858, this event features clowns, floats, bands, bagpipes, dancers, drill teams, and more. The parade begins at 15th and Peachtree and concludes at 5th and Peachtree. Spectators are encouraged to use MARTA to the Midtown or Arts Center stations. Get more details, parade map and more.
Midtown St. Patrick’s Block Party
- Date & Time: Friday, March 13, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Location: Politan Row at Colony Square, 1197 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30361
- Details: Billed as Atlanta’s largest St. Patrick’s party, attendees can expect live music, food, and dancing.
St. Paddy’s Block Party and Kegs & Eggs Bar Crawls
- Organized by Atlanta Bar Tours, these popular crawls hit multiple spots with exclusive drinks, food, beads, and specials.
- Friday, March 13: Midtown-focused starting around 6 p.m.
- Saturday, March 14: Virginia-Highland Kegs & Eggs from noon/early afternoon (e.g., starting at Neighbor’s Pub with DJs, food trucks, and bar-hopping).
- Details: Ticketed (general and VIP options); includes complimentary Irish-themed beverages.
Fadó Irish Pub St. Patrick’s Celebration
- A go-to Irish pub hosting major festivities with live music, DJs, Irish dancers, big beers, brunch, and specials. Events at Buckhead and Midtown locations.
- Dates: Saturday, March 14 (parade watch party from noon, outdoor festival, no cover early then $20 after), and Tuesday, March 17.
- Details: Advance tickets recommended for savings; early doors on parade day.
Other Notable Events
- Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl — Saturday, March 14, starting around 4 p.m., with multiple venues, drinks/shots, and an after-party.
- St. Patrick’s Day at St. Julep Rooftop — Tuesday, March 17, 5-10 p.m., with live DJ, festive drinks, special menu, and views.
- Your 3rd Spot St. Patrick’s Weekend — March 13–17, with green beers, shamrock shakes, and play activities (family-friendly on weekends).
- Various pub specials, live music, and smaller crawls/parties at spots like Atkins Park, Smyrna Market Village, and others around metro Atlanta.
What Else Is Happening This Weekend in Atlanta?
To find a curated list of the best events happening near you, check out our Atlanta Weekend Guide, which shows you which festivals, parties and other events are on tap.
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Atlanta residents are leaning into green this weekend as the St. Patrick’s Day Parade marches through Midtown.
Started in 1858 by the Hibernian Benevolent Society, the parade holds the title as the longest running event in Atlanta history, continuing the tradition of celebrating the city’s Irish culture and history.The parade will begin at noon sharp at the intersection of Peachtree Street and 15th Street and will continue down Peachtree to 5th Street, concluding at 1:30 p.m.
When Is The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Atlanta This Year?
This is the biggest and most traditional event—Atlanta’s longest-running public event (dating back to 1858) and one of the oldest/largest St. Patrick’s parades in the U.S. It features floats, marching bands (including the 116th Army Band), bagpipers, Irish dancers, community groups, animals, and more. Presented by Irish Network Atlanta.
Details: Free admission; family-friendly. A pre-parade “Brave the Shave” event raises awareness for childhood cancer. More info at atlantastpats.com.
Date/Time: Saturday, March 14, 2026, starting at noon (ends around 1:30 p.m., rain or shine). Arrive by 11 a.m. for good spots.
Location: Midtown Atlanta, starting at Peachtree Street and 15th Street, heading south to 5th Street.
Annually, hundreds of attendees line the parade route to witness entertainment from across not only the state but the country. This year thousands of people are expected to participate with units ranging from floats, bands, bagpipe and drum corps to childrens’ groups, Irish dancers, animal groups. A host of Irish and local dignitaries join in the parade as well, such as Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.
For local Atlanta parade participants with Irish roots, the parade is a much-anticipated annual tradition. Like the O’Riordan Clan, for example, who for more than five decades has made the St. Patrick’s Parade a family tradition.
This year’s grand marshal is Ireland-native Georgia Tech Football kicker David Shanahan, the first from the country to be awarded a scholarship to play American college football.
Irish Heritage Takes Center Stage With Atlanta St. Patrick’s Parade
The relationship between Ireland and Atlanta has been strong for decades and has only continued to grow in recent years. The level of Irish investment in Georgia is significant with over 20 Irish companies now operating in approximately 80 facilities across the state, employing approximately 6,800 Georgians.
Additionally, according to the Consulate of Ireland in Atlanta, nine percent (9%) of Georgia residents claim Irish and Scots-Irish heritage, with approximately 60,000 in Fulton County.
“The Atlanta St. Patrick’s Day parade is the highlight of our year in the city. We welcome all Atlantans to join our celebration of the strength of Ireland-Atlanta connections,” said Consul General Caoimhe Ní Chonchúir.
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Atlanta’s vinyl scene remains vibrant today (who remembers EarWax?), with independent record stores serving as cultural hubs for music lovers, collectors, and casual browsers alike.
From iconic spots in Little Five Points to hidden gems across the city, these shops offer everything from rare finds and used bargains to new releases, merch, and community events.
Here are some of the best record stores in Atlanta worth visiting right now:
1. Criminal Records (Little Five Points)
Widely regarded as Atlanta’s premier record store, Criminal Records has long been a cornerstone of the local music scene. Located at 1154 Euclid Ave NE, this spot combines an excellent selection of new and used vinyl across genres—especially indie, alternative, rock, and underground—with comics, merch, and in-store events like signings and performances.
It’s a go-to for both serious collectors hunting obscurities and fans grabbing the latest drops. The knowledgeable staff and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit.
2. Fantasyland Records (Buckhead)
A true Atlanta institution since 1976, Fantasyland Records at 360 Pharr Rd NE boasts one of the city’s finest selections of used and new vinyl, including LPs, 45s, plus CDs, cassettes, DVDs, posters, and even vintage concert shirts from legends like The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, and Bruce Springsteen.
Buy, sell, or trade here—it’s a treasure trove for diggers seeking classic rock, soul, and more. Perfect for those who appreciate a well-curated, nostalgic inventory.
3. Disorder Vinyl (Edgewood Avenue)
This vibrant shop has become a favorite for punk, hardcore, indie, and alternative fans. With a focus on quality over quantity (no endless filler bins), Disorder Vinyl offers buy/sell/trade options, cool merch like trucker hats and logo tees, and a welcoming vibe.
Its high-profile location near Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park makes it easy to pair with other downtown explorations. Follow their Instagram for giveaways and updates.
4. Wax ‘N’ Facts (Little Five Points)
Just steps from Criminal Records at 432 Moreland Ave NE, this eclectic shop is a classic for used vinyl across rock, rap, country, and beyond.
It’s known for affordable finds, posters, and a laid-back, treasure-hunt feel. While some say the bins get picked over quickly, dedicated diggers still uncover gems here regularly. A perfect complement to a Little Five Points crawl.
5. Wuxtry Records
(Various Locations, including Athens ties)
An Atlanta staple with strong selections in jazz, blues, indie, alt-rock, and hip-hop, Wuxtry offers both new and used LPs. The staff’s expertise and the shop’s tight organization (plus the resident shop dog!) keep regulars coming back. It’s especially praised for rare and high-quality used finds.Honorable Mentions
- Moods Music (Little Five Points) — Specializes in neo-soul, acid jazz, imports, and hip-hop vibes, with a mood-matching approach that’s unique.
- Vinyl Fiends (Ponce City Market) — Great for hip-hop, R&B, soul, and jazz, plus CDs, turntables, and DJ gear in a modern, accessible spot.
- CratesATL (Downtown/South Downtown) — A newer addition breathing fresh life into the area with new releases, top sellers, and a welcoming setup.
- Ella Guru Records — Often highlighted for top-tier used indie, classic, and alternative rock selections—rare gems frequently appear here.
Whether you’re building a collection, hunting for a specific pressing, or just soaking in Atlanta’s music culture, these independent shops keep the spirit of vinyl alive. Many participate in events like Record Store Day, so check their websites or social media for hours, special releases, and in-store happenings. Happy hunting!
