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ATLANTA — Mercedes-Benz Stadium has earned dual nominations in USA TODAY’s Readers’ Choice Awards, recognized in both the Best NFL Stadium and Best NFL Stadium Food categories.
The Atlanta venue, home of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC, is one of the finalists competing for top honors based on fan voting. The Best NFL Stadium category highlights overall fan experience, design, amenities, and atmosphere, while the Best NFL Stadium Food category focuses on the quality, variety, and innovation of concessions offered to game-day attendees.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium Nominated for Best NFL Stadium and Best Stadium Food in USA TODAY Readers’ Choice Awards
Mercedes-Benz Stadium has previously drawn praise for its retractable roof, 360-degree halo board, and emphasis on local and diverse food options that go beyond traditional stadium fare. The dual nominations place the venue among the leading NFL facilities nationwide in the annual fan-driven poll.
Fans can vote for their favorites through USA TODAY’s Readers’ Choice platform. Winners will be determined by public votes and announced later in the awards cycle.
The recognition underscores Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s continued standing as a premier destination for NFL fans seeking both an impressive venue and elevated game-day dining.
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Ponce City Market in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward remains one of the city’s most vibrant destinations year-round. Housed in a historic former Sears building and connected to the Atlanta BeltLine, it combines a lively food hall, unique shops, outdoor spaces, and rooftop fun.
One of my favorite things to do in Midtown is to head to Ponce City Market. As temperatures cool in fall 2026 (September through November), the market offers a mix of recurring events, seasonal vibes, and classic attractions perfect for locals and visitors alike.
Spring brings warmer days perfect for rooftop play, fresh food openings, outdoor strolls, and buzzing events in the heart of the Old Fourth Ward. Entry is free, and it’s ideal for a full-day adventure. Parking is on-site (typically $1 for the first half-hour, with daily maxes—check the PCM app for real-time rates).
Ponce City Market: What To Do There This Fall
Whether you’re people-watching in the bustling Central Food Hall, grabbing skyline views from the roof, or exploring ongoing events, PCM is a year-round spot for locals and visitors alike.
Entry to the market is free, and it’s perfect for a full day out. Parking is available on-site (rates start around $1 for the first half-hour, with daily maxes applying—check the app for current details).
1. Head to The Roof for Skyline Park and Epic Views
The rooftop is a highlight year-round, but spring amps up the outdoor fun at Skyline Park with mini-golf, carnival games, a three-story slide, and panoramic views of Midtown, Downtown, and Buckhead.
Later in the fall, expect the popular transition to winter activities. “Skate the Sky” ice skating has returned in previous years around late November on the rooftop terrace, often paired with igloos for cozy group hangs and festive vibes. Pair your visit with drinks or dining at spots like 9 Mile Station or 12 Cocktail Bar. Check the official Roof site for current hours, tickets, and exact seasonal openings, as they can vary with weather.
- Pair it with drinks and bites at 9 Mile Station for elevated cocktails and skyline dining.
- SK8 the Roof (roller skating) returns in April 2026—perfect for spring evenings (available April–August).
- Family-friendly events continue, including potential pop-ups and gatherings in The Yard.
- Admission: Around $15 for adults, $7 for kids (prices may vary; often free for young children). Tickets available at the ground-floor booth or online.
Pro tip: The Roof also features seasonal activations, like the popular Skate the Sky ice rink in winter months.
2. Dive into the Central Food Hall
Photo credit: youtube.com The food hall pulses as PCM’s heart, with global flavors from artisanal vendors and top chefs—ideal for spring grazing.
- H&F Burger still delivers top-tier burgers (try the house ketchup or veggie option).
- Exciting updates: Terminal 26 (new Thai concept) is slated for spring 2026 in the former W.H. Stiles space.
- Big news for spring—two chef-driven Japanese spots open soon: NoriFish (sushi with fresh Toyosu Market seafood) and Okiboru (Michelin Bib Gourmand ramen/tsukemen), replacing earlier closures like Ton Ton and Miso Ko.
- Plant-based fans love options from the Slutty Vegan family (e.g., Bar Vegan), plus variety from recent additions like Van Leeuwen Ice Cream.
Open daily for breakfast through late-night bites—grab outdoor seating when the weather cooperates.
3. Check Out Local Makers & Artisans
Fall is prime time for supporting Atlanta creators. Blooms Market at Ponce typically returns on the second Saturday of the month at The Shed along the BeltLine, featuring a curated mix of local artists, makers, food vendors, handmade goods, and live music.
The Village Retail Saturday Maker’s Market also runs select Saturdays (including dates in September and November 2026), showcasing artisans, creators, and small businesses. These markets create a festive, community-oriented atmosphere ideal for finding unique gifts or seasonal treats while strolling the BeltLine.
PCM’s retail mix includes national brands, local makers, and unique boutiques across multiple floors.
- Must-visits: West Elm for home goods, Anthropologie and J.Crew for fashion, Warby Parker for eyewear, and Citizen Supply for artisan crafts.
- Support local with spots like The Village Retail (focusing on Black-owned businesses) and handmade goods from Atlanta creators.
- Don’t miss building your own bouquet at floral shops or browsing sustainable apparel.
Shopping hours are generally 10 a.m.–9 p.m. weekdays/Saturdays, shorter on Sundays.
Catch Events and Weekly Happenings:
- Placita at Ponce: Weekly Friday block party in the Food Hall with music, vibes, and more.
- Guided tastings, cocktail classes, and winery tours at spots like City Winery.
- Run clubs, makers markets, and seasonal pop-ups—check poncecitymarket.com/events for the latest.
5. Stroll the BeltLine and Explore the Neighborhood
Photo credit: AtlantaFi.com Step right out onto the Eastside Trail for walking, biking, or people-watching. It’s a seamless connection to nearby spots like Historic Fourth Ward Park.Ponce City Market evolves while staying true to its roots as a community hub.
With new openings on the horizon and timeless attractions like the rooftop views and food hall energy, it’s a can’t-miss Atlanta experience in 2026.
Catch Weekend and Evening Happenings at PCM
- Placita at Ponce: Weekly Friday block party vibes in the Food Hall with music and energy.
- Regulars like City Winery tours/tastings (multiple in March), Atlanta Run Club meets, and cocktail classes at The Upper Room.
- Check poncecitymarket.com/events for makers markets, yoga on The Yard (e.g., with Lululemon), run clubs, and seasonal pop-ups.
- The seasonal Ponce City Farmers Market operates Tuesdays (typically 4–8 p.m.) under The Shed at the BeltLine entrance through the fall (often into November). It’s a producer-only market focused on local farmers, artisanal makers, and pop-up chefs—unique in Georgia for its strong pedestrian and cyclist access via the BeltLine.
- Stock up on seasonal produce, prepared foods, and specialty items while enjoying the outdoor setting. Parking perks are sometimes available for market shoppers—verify details on-site or via the market’s info.
Final Word
Download the PCM app for maps, directories, and real-time updates!For more Atlanta hotspots, stay tuned to your local news source. What’s your favorite spot at PCM? Let us know in the comments!
Summerhill is one of Atlanta’s most dynamic neighborhoods and one of the best places to eat on the southside. The street’s walkable, trendy vibe, enhanced by vibrant murals and restored brick storefronts, draws food enthusiasts and supports a burgeoning dining scene.
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Do you want to be a part of a viral video series? Know’s your chance. CAB Castings is now casting audience members for the LIVE taping of the new YouTube competition series “The Spell Off Live!” filming in Atlanta, GA.
They’re looking for energetic men and women, ages 21 and older, to be part of the excitement as this brand-new series makes its debut.
Now Casting: The Spell Off Live!
Hosted by DC Young Fly, with Funny Marco, the show brings together celebrities, comedians, athletes, digital creators, and special guests for a fun, fast-paced spelling competition unlike anything you’ve seen before.
This isn’t your typical game show. It’s a live entertainment experience filled with comedy, unexpected moments, audience interaction, and nonstop energy. If you’ve ever wanted to experience what it’s feels like behind the scenes of a live television production while being part of the action, this is your opportunity!
FILMING DATES:
Tuesday, August 11, 2026 @ 8pm
Wednesday, August 12, 2026 @ 8pm
Additional filming dates will be announced.( Filming will always be on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings)AUDIENCE CALL TIME: 8:00 PM
ESTIMATED DURATION: Approximately 4.5 hours
The allotted amount of time includes check-in, security, audience seating, and production needs prior to the start of the taping.AUDIENCE STIPEND: $50 Gift Card
Please Note: Audience members must remain for the entire taping in order to receive the participation stipend.AUDIENCE ATTIRE:
Come camera-ready in stylish, fashionable attire. Solid colors are encouraged. Please avoid clothing with large logos, busy patterns, or inappropriate graphics.If interested and available, please send an email to audience@cabcastings.com
Subject Line: SPELL OFF Audience – (Date Applying For)
Your email should include:- Full Name
- Phone Number
- Age
- Height
- Which filming date you are available for (August 11 or August 12)
- Are you able to report to Atlanta, GA?
- Are you available for the entire taping?
- Two recent photos (one headshot and one full-length photo)
Please include all of the requested information above for proper consideration.
If selected, a member of the CAB Castings team will contact you with additional details and booking confirmation.
Because of the steady flow of movie and TV productions, Atlanta has been called the Hollywood of the South and it’s not just a label.. If you want to be an actor, the city has classes you can take as well as places that provide headshots and more. You can also audition at numerous casting calls to build your movie and TV reel.
Coming 2 America is just one of many films filmed in Atlanta. See our Movies Page for more.
Are you interested in becoming an actorin Atlanta? You’re in the right place!
See Atlanta Casting Calls And Auditions Available Right Now
Want to work in Georgia film & TV? Here are the latest Atlanta casting calls
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Major Harris, the 18-year-old son of rapper T.I. and singer Tameka “Tiny” Harris, did some major recently: He got his driver’s license.
After that, he accidentally struck his older brother King while attempting to park a car. The hilarious clip went viral on social media on August 5, 2026.
Hilarious: T.I., Tiny’s Son Accidentally Hits Brother with Car
According to the video, Major is still learning the finer points of parking after getting his driver’s license. His father had the vehicle—an Audi—brought to him. While parking, Major appears to misjudge the space, resulting in the car making contact with King, who was standing nearby next to another vehicle. King ends up pressed between the cars for a moment before reacting; the footage shows him leaning on the hood and then walking away while laughing.
Major Philant Harris, born May 16, 2008, is the younger of the two sons T.I. and Tiny share together (along with their daughter Heiress). Unlike his musically inclined brothers, he is the more reserved, academically focused sibling who appeared on the family’s reality series T.I. & Tiny: The Family Hustle. King (Clifford “King” Joseph Harris III), born August 25, 2004, is a rapper and social media personality who has faced prior legal issues related to traffic stops.
The Harris family has long shared glimpses of everyday life—both the polished and the imperfect—with the public through reality television and social media.
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The U.S. Senate on Wednesday confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz as director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in a 51-44 vote, giving the nation’s leading public health agency its first Senate-confirmed permanent leader in nearly a year.
Schwartz, a retired rear admiral in the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps and former deputy surgeon general during President Donald Trump’s first term, assumes the role amid ongoing challenges at the CDC.
Senate Confirms Dr. Erica Schwartz as CDC Director, Ending Yearlong Leadership Vacuum
These include a resurgence of measles, a multi-state cyclosporiasis outbreak, an Ebola outbreak in Africa, significant staff reductions through layoffs and resignations, and lingering questions about the agency’s independence under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
The vote largely followed party lines, with only one Democrat, Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia, joining Republicans in support. Five senators did not vote. Schwartz becomes the first Black woman to lead the CDC.
A board-certified preventive medicine physician, Schwartz holds degrees in biomedical engineering and medicine from Brown University, a master of public health, and a law degree from the University of Maryland. She previously served as the U.S. Coast Guard’s chief medical officer and has experience responding to outbreaks including Ebola and H1N1, as well as standing up COVID-19 testing sites.
Schwartz has publicly supported childhood vaccines. During her confirmation process, she affirmed that vaccines are safe and effective, noted that she has personally administered thousands of vaccines for military force health protection, and described vaccines as a cornerstone of prevention. She has also emphasized restoring trust in public health institutions through transparency and scientific integrity.
Her nomination and confirmation come after a period of instability. The previous confirmed director, Susan Monarez, was removed in August 2025 after less than a month in the role following reported clashes with Kennedy over vaccine policy. Acting leadership, most recently by NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya, followed.
Senators, including Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Chairman Bill Cassidy (R-La.), pressed Schwartz during her hearing on her willingness to resist political pressure on scientific matters. Cassidy ultimately supported her confirmation after additional conversations, expressing confidence in her ability to lead.
Schwartz takes the helm of an agency that has faced morale challenges and workforce reductions of nearly a quarter in recent years. Public health observers will be watching closely how she navigates ongoing disease threats and the broader policy environment surrounding vaccines and chronic disease prevention.
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In Georgia’s largest city, we often jest with the question: Is Atlanta full? It’s a valid question considering the metro area’s growth spurts in recent years. But just how “full” is metro Atlanta?
In this article, we’ll take a look at recent demographic shifts of Atlanta and the surrounding region.
In an era of rapid urbanization, migration shifts, and economic transformation, understanding population dynamics is crucial for planning sustainable growth, equitable resource allocation, and fostering inclusive communities.
This article dives into the latest data on Atlanta’s population, explores its growth trajectory, and contextualizes it within Georgia’s broader landscape by highlighting the state’s fastest-growing counties.
Atlanta’s Current Population: A Snapshot
As of July 1, 2025 (the most recent U.S. Census Bureau Vintage 2025 estimates available in 2026), the City of Atlanta is home to an estimated 529,110 residents. This marks solid growth from the 2020 Census count of about 498,715–498,805, reflecting a cumulative increase of approximately 6.1% over the period.
The city’s annual growth rate stands at about 0.96%, driven by a mix of domestic in-migration, international newcomers, and natural increase (births minus deaths).
While Atlanta’s core population remains diverse—boasting a majority-Black demographic, growing Hispanic and Asian communities, and a youthful median age of around 33—this figure represents the incorporated city limits, which span just 136 square miles.It’s worth noting the distinction between the city proper and the broader metropolitan area.
The Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), encompassing 29 counties, boasts a much larger populace of over 6.4 million as of mid-2024, with projections pushing toward 6.3 million by year’s end.
This metro growth, fueled by suburban expansion and job opportunities in tech, film, and logistics, underscores Atlanta’s role as the economic engine of the Southeast.
Growth Trends: Resilience Amid Challenges
Atlanta’s population story is one of resilience. Post-2020, the city rebounded from pandemic-era outflows, adding thousands of residents annually. Key drivers include:
- Economic Pull: With Fortune 500 headquarters like Coca-Cola and Delta Air Lines, plus booming sectors like fintech and entertainment, Atlanta attracts young professionals.
- Affordability and Culture: Compared to coastal giants like New York or Los Angeles, Atlanta offers a lower cost of living paired with world-class amenities, from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport to the BeltLine trail system.
- Diversity and Inclusion: International migration contributed nearly 135,000 new residents to the metro area between 2020 and 2024, enriching Atlanta’s cultural fabric. axios.com
However, challenges persist. Housing affordability pressures, infrastructure strains, and equitable access to services highlight the need for data-driven policies.
Our institute’s models project continued modest growth, with the city potentially reaching 540,000 by 2030 if current trends hold.
Georgia’s Booming Counties: A Regional Perspective
Atlanta doesn’t grow in isolation—its expansion ripples across Georgia, spurring development in exurban and rural counties.
Drawing from the latest estimates, which track changes from 2020 to 2025, several counties have seen explosive growth rates, often exceeding 20%.
These areas, many on the fringes of metro Atlanta or near Savannah, are transforming from sleepy locales into bustling suburbs, thanks to remote work, affordable land, and improved connectivity.
Below is a table of Georgia’s top 10 fastest-growing counties by percentage increase over this period. This data illuminates how population shifts are reshaping the state’s geography, with implications for Atlanta’s commuter patterns, water resources, and economic partnerships.
Rank County Growth Percentage (2020-2025) 1 Dawson County 32.21% 2 Long County 30.52% 3 Jackson County 28.91% 4 Jasper County 22.3% 5 Barrow County 18.54% 6 Bryan County 16.18% 7 Walton County 16.13% 8 Monroe County 14.96% 9 Effingham County 14.66% 10 Banks County 14.52% Notably, counties like Dawson and Jackson, north of Atlanta, exemplify “exurban” flight—residents seeking space while staying connected to urban jobs. Meanwhile, coastal-adjacent Bryan and Long counties reflect Savannah’s spillover.
These trends signal opportunities for regional collaboration but also underscore the urgency of coordinated planning to manage sprawl.
Looking Ahead: Sustainable Growth for All
Atlanta’s population of 525,088 is more than a number—it’s a testament to our city’s enduring appeal and evolving identity.
As we monitor these patterns, our work at the Atlanta Population Studies Institute emphasizes inclusive growth: ensuring that newcomers and long-time residents alike benefit from expanded transit, green spaces, and affordable housing. With Georgia’s counties surging ahead, the Peach State stands at a crossroads.
Will we harness this momentum for shared prosperity?For more insights, explore our interactive dashboards or contact us at populationstudies@atlantaga.gov. Together, we’re building the Atlanta of tomorrow—one resident at a time.
Final Word
In Georgia’s largest city, we often jest with the question: Is Atlanta full? It’s a valid question considering the metro area’s growth spurts in recent years. But just how “full” is metro Atlanta?
Population growth aside, the city is full of activities. First, to find all the cool things happening in Atlanta this weekend, all you have to do is take a look at downtown area. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. Downtown Atlanta or Midtown Atlanta often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:
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Atlanta has solidified its place as one of the Southeast’s premier technology hubs—often called the “Silicon Valley of the South.” The metro area combines a deep corporate base (Home Depot, Delta, UPS, Cox Enterprises, NCR Voyix, Global Payments, and others), a thriving startup ecosystem centered around Atlanta Tech Village and Buckhead, university-driven innovation at Georgia Tech’s Tech Square in Midtown, and growing strength in fintech, payments, AI, cybersecurity, logistics tech, and enterprise software.
The good news is that Atlanta has some of the top tech companies in America.
Do I Need A Degree To Get Into The Tech Industry?
The good news for complete beginners: you do not need a computer science degree or years of experience to get started. Many entry points exist through skills-based hiring, apprenticeships, bootcamps, and a collaborative local community that values demonstrated ability and networking. Here is a practical roadmap.
Getting into Atlanta’s tech industry involves several steps and considerations. Here’s a guide to help you navigate your way:
How To Join Atlanta’s Tech Industry
1. Identify Your Interests and Skills
Are you good at math, but terrible with writing? Do you have crappy people skills? It’s up to you to determine the specific area within the tech industry that aligns with your interests and skills.
Atlanta’s tech industry encompasses various sectors, including software development, data analytics, cybersecurity, fintech, health tech, and more. Understanding your strengths and passions will guide your career path.
2. Expand Your Knowledge and Skills
Stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and skills relevant to your chosen field. Consider pursuing formal education, such as a degree or certification, in a tech-related discipline.
Here are some certification programs that may prove valuable to you:
Note that many online certification programs charge a one-time fee or monthly subscription to take the courses.
Atlanta has several reputable universities and technical schools that offer relevant programs. You can also take advantage of online courses, boot camps, and workshops to enhance your skills.
3. Research and Target Companies
Research the top tech companies, startups, and organizations in Atlanta that align with your career goals and values. Stay updated on their job postings, company culture, and recent developments. Tailor your applications to highlight your skills and how they align with the company’s needs.
Atlanta’s tech map has distinct zones. Midtown/Tech Square mixes Georgia Tech talent with corporate innovation centers. Buckhead and Atlanta Tech Village focus on startups. The northern corridor (Alpharetta, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Perimeter) hosts more enterprise and IT operations roles
High-demand entry areas for novices include:
• Software development / web development (JavaScript, Python, React)
• Data analytics and basic data science
• IT support, help desk, and technical operations
• Cybersecurity fundamentals (Security+, Network+)
• QA / testing
• Implementation or technical support roles at SaaS and fintech companies
Identify what interests you—building products, analyzing data, securing systems, or supporting users—then align your learning accordingly. Roles that blend technical and soft skills (customer-facing implementation, support engineering) are often more accessible first steps than pure junior software engineering.
4. Grow Your Professional Network
Do you know someone in tech? Take them out to lunch and pick their brain on everything from good interview questions to ask to how to dress in the industry.
Networking is crucial in the tech industry. Attend industry events, meetups, conferences, and workshops in Atlanta to connect with professionals, entrepreneurs, and like-minded individuals.
You’ll also want to leverage LinkedIn and join relevant tech organizations or associations in the city, such as Atlanta Tech Village, Women Who Code Atlanta, or Technology Association of Georgia (TAG), to expand your network.
Atlanta has a thriving tech ecosystem with numerous resources to support professionals. Join online clubs and groups like The Gathering Spot where like minds come together to build and grow.
Take advantage of co-working spaces, incubators, and accelerators in the city. Attend tech-focused events like hackathons or pitch competitions, which can provide exposure and opportunities to connect with potential employers or investors.
5. Build Foundational Skills, Gain Practical Experience
Nothing speaks louder than actual experience on the job. One way you can get hands-on experience is through internships, co-op programs, or part-time jobs.
Employers want evidence you can do the work:
• Build 2–4 solid personal projects (a web app, data dashboard tied to a real Atlanta-relevant problem such as logistics or fintech, or a simple automation script) and host them on GitHub with clear READMEs.
• Contribute to open source or participate in local hackathons.
• Volunteer IT help for nonprofits or small businesses.
• Pursue internships, apprenticeships, or adjacent roles (help desk → junior support → engineering track).
• Freelance small projects via Upwork or local networks to accumulate real client experience.
A shipped project or documented home lab often outweighs generic coursework on a résumé.
Look for tech companies, startups, or innovation hubs in Atlanta that offer opportunities for entry-level positions or internships. Real-world experience will strengthen your resume and provide valuable insights into the industry.
Focus on practical, portfolio-ready skills rather than collecting certificates alone. Core recommendations:
• Programming: Python (versatile for data, automation, and AI-related work) and JavaScript/React for web development.
• Tools: Git/GitHub, basic SQL, cloud fundamentals (AWS or Google Cloud free tiers), and version control.
• Domain knowledge: For cybersecurity, CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ are widely recognized local entry credentials. For data roles, Excel + SQL + a visualization tool (Tableau or Power BI) goes far.
Free or low-cost resources: freeCodeCamp, Codecademy, Google Career Certificates, Microsoft Learn, and YouTube channels focused on project-based learning. Dedicate consistent time (10–15 hours per week) and document everything on GitHub.
Atlanta offers multiple on-ramps:
• Bootcamps: General Assembly (software engineering, data analytics), TripleTen, Nucamp, and others provide structured, job-oriented programs with career support. Many offer part-time options for people who need to keep working. codelabsacademy.com
• Free or income-share / scholarship programs: Per Scholas (IT support and software engineering tracks with employer connections), Year Up Greater Atlanta, and TAG-Ed (Technology Association of Georgia Education) registered apprenticeships that pay while you learn in cybersecurity, cloud, and AI fundamentals. nucamp.co
• Community colleges and certificates: Georgia Piedmont Technical College and Atlanta Technical College offer affordable or HOPE Career Grant-supported programs. Georgia Tech and Georgia State provide pathways and extension courses.
• Apprenticeships and rotational programs: Companies such as NCR Voyix and Google have early-career or apprenticeship-style opportunities that value potential over pedigree. nucamp.co
A bootcamp or apprenticeship is not mandatory, but structured programs accelerate skill-building and often include job-search support and local employer pipelines.
6. Build a Strong Online Presence
Are you on Instagram and TikTok? That may be where your next job connection is.
Create a professional online presence on social networks to showcase your skills and expertise. Develop a LinkedIn profile highlighting your tech-related accomplishments, projects, and skills. Build a portfolio website or contribute to open-source projects to demonstrate your capabilities. Engage with the tech community on social media platforms, share relevant content, and participate in discussions.
Atlanta’s tech community is notably welcoming and “pay-it-forward.” Showing up consistently matters more than having a perfect résumé.
Key places and groups:
• Atlanta Tech Village (Buckhead and South Downtown locations): Hosts Startup Village pitch nights, Startup Chowdown, workshops, and networking. Many successful local companies (Calendly, Salesloft, etc.) have roots here.
• Meetup groups: Atlanta Tech Meetup, React ATL, GDG Atlanta (Google Developer Group), Atlanta Startup Village, REFACTR.TECH, IxDA Atlanta, and various AI/data groups.
• Major events: Atlanta Tech Week (typically August, organized around RenderATL), Avant South, TAG events, and local AI summits or hackathons.
• LinkedIn, local Slack/Discord communities, and university events (Georgia Tech, HBCUs) are also active.
Attend as a learner. Ask questions, offer help on projects, and follow up with people you meet. Many first jobs come through personal introductions.
7. Seek Mentorship and Guidance
Find mentors who are established professionals in the Atlanta tech industry. They can offer valuable insights, advice, and guidance as you navigate your career path. Reach out to professionals through networking events, industry associations, or online platforms to establish mentor-mentee relationships.
Final Word
As a parting word of advice, remember to be persistent and able to adapt to different personalities and circumstances.
Atlanta’s tech industry continues to grow at the seams because of the area’s robust economy and the city’s hospitality. If you’re thinking about getting into tech, you should know that it’s very doable.
The tech industry is highly dynamic, so be prepared to adapt to new technologies and trends. Keep learning, stay curious, and be persistent in pursuing your goals. It may take time to break into the industry, so maintain a positive mindset and persevere through challenges.
Remember, getting into Atlanta’s tech industry requires a combination of technical skills, networking, practical experience, and a proactive approach. Stay focused, continuously improve your skills, and seize opportunities to make meaningful connections within the vibrant tech community of Atlanta.
Here are winning interview tips to get the job.
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ATLANTA — Lenox Square is once again rallying shoppers to support local students, launching its third annual school supplies drive in partnership with North Atlanta Cluster elementary schools.
From now through Monday, Aug. 31, the mall is collecting full-size backpacks, No. 2 pencils, 24-pack Crayola crayons, highlighters, Lysol cleaning wipes, 12-pack Crayola colored pencils, 12-pack Crayola washable markers and glue sticks. Donations will go to Friends Helping Friends, a community initiative that aids students at the cluster’s elementary schools.
Lenox Square School Supplies Drive: What To Know
Contribution bins are located throughout Lenox Square and at the property’s Management Office on the Market Level near the Dining Pavilion restrooms.
“We are proud to host this school supplies drive for a third year as it strengthens the well-being of our community and is a direct investment into the next generation,” said Sean Carroll, general manager at Lenox Square. “Through this ongoing partnership with North Atlanta Cluster elementary schools and Friends Helping Friends, we are uniting shoppers, retailers, teachers and families under a shared mission to help local children thrive in the classroom.”
Friends Helping Friends supports students while offering volunteer opportunities for parents and children. Organizers say the drive also aims to ease the rising costs of back-to-school shopping for families and teachers.
“Students who begin the year with the right tools feel more engaged, confident and prepared in the classroom,” said Laquisha Smith, co-founder and co-chair of Friends Helping Friends. “As costs for these materials continue to climb, this drive will increase educational equity and expand access to the critical academic resources that fuel students’ readiness and excitement to learn.”
“Every donation makes a meaningful impact in these students’ lives,” added Mary Lau, co-founder and co-chair of Friends Helping Friends. “We are thankful for Lenox Square and our community’s efforts in helping local children feel supported, included and inspired throughout their academic journey.”
North Atlanta Cluster elementary schools are part of Atlanta Public Schools and serve students in grades K-5.
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The City of Peachtree Corners, home to Atlanta Tech Park, the Curiosity Lab, and a growing roster of technology companies, will open Atlanta Tech Week with a major kick-off event this Sunday.
More than 1,500 professionals from across the nation are expected to gather for a day of innovation, collaboration, and real-world technology experiences, setting the tone for a week that celebrates the Southeast’s thriving tech ecosystem.
About Atlanta Tech Week in Peachtree City
Atlanta Tech Week runs August 9–14, 2026, as an annual network of events drawing founders, builders, investors, and industry leaders. The kick-off on August 9 will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET at multiple locations in Peachtree Corners, including the Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners (147 Technology Pkwy. NW) and Atlanta Tech Park (107 Technology Pkwy. NW).
Read: Best tech companies in Atlanta
Both venues will serve as official partners, hosting a welcome brunch, facility tours, and speaker panels that highlight the region’s strengths in applied technology and entrepreneurship.
Attendees will not only hear about emerging innovations—they will experience them firsthand. Throughout the afternoon, robots from AlphaRobotics will circulate among guests, serving refreshments and demonstrating how robotics can create interactive, practical experiences in everyday settings.
Two featured panels at the Curiosity Lab will offer deeper insights into the challenges and opportunities of bringing technology to market:
- From Prototype to Real-World Impact (1–2 p.m.)
Many startups face a critical next step after building a promising technology: proving it works outside the lab. Founders who have tested their innovations in Peachtree Corners will share how real-world deployments led to new customers, product improvements, partnerships, and business growth. The discussion is aimed at entrepreneurs, innovation supporters, and anyone curious about how new technologies move into daily life. - The Next Wave of Venture Investing: Building Companies for the Physical World (2:15–3:15 p.m.)
Developing companies in robotics, mobility, energy, advanced infrastructure, and other physical-world technologies presents distinct hurdles that pure software startups often avoid. Panelists will explore how founders validate demand, attract capital, prepare for manufacturing, and build scalable organizations. Leaders experienced in launching, funding, testing, and scaling ambitious technical ventures will provide an inside look at turning complex innovation into successful businesses.
By hosting the kick-off, Peachtree Corners continues to position itself as a hub where technology is developed, tested, and brought to market.
The combination of venue tours, expert conversations, and live robotic demonstrations promises to give participants a tangible sense of the region’s innovation momentum as Atlanta Tech Week gets underway.
- From Prototype to Real-World Impact (1–2 p.m.)
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Hapeville’s popular Downtown Live Summer concert series continues this Saturday, August 15, with a flavorful evening of live music and local eats titled Downtown Live: Wings & Strings.
The free outdoor event runs from 7 to 10 p.m. at Jess Lucas Y-Teen Park and marks the second installment in the city’s beloved summer lineup.
Hapeville Downtown Live concert series
Guests can expect an energetic night of performances, starting with an opening set by Justin Monday that sets the stage for headliner Donovan Fuller.
Complementing the music, some of Atlanta’s favorite local food vendors will be on-site serving up tasty chicken wings, giving attendees the perfect pairing of live tunes and satisfying bites.
Organizers encourage everyone to bring a lawn chair or blanket and settle in for the evening. The show goes on rain or shine, so the community can count on a reliable night of entertainment under the Hapeville sky.
Whether you’re coming for the music, the wings, or simply to enjoy a relaxed summer night outdoors, Downtown Live: Wings & Strings promises a lively gathering that highlights local talent and flavors in the heart of Hapeville.
