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Slutty Vegan, the Atlanta-born plant-based burger chain famous for its cheeky menu names, high-energy vibe, and unapologetically vegan “junk food” appeal, is entering a bold new chapter of growth.
The eatery, which has become one of the top vegan spots in Atlanta, is expanding with key locations across the United States.
Founded in 2018 by Pinky Cole Hayes as a food truck serving late-night cravings, the brand has evolved from a local sensation into a nationally recognized name. After navigating financial challenges and a recent restructuring, Slutty Vegan is now franchising aggressively, with fresh deals signaling expansion across the United States.
Slutty Vegan Expansion: Humble Beginnings in Atlanta
Photo credit: Pinky Cole / Facebook Pinky Cole launched Slutty Vegan in August 2018, initially as a ghost kitchen and then a food truck, driven by her own desire for satisfying vegan comfort food available after dark. The first brick-and-mortar location opened in Atlanta’s Westview neighborhood in January 2019. Signature items like the “One Night Stand” burger, “Fussy Hussy,” and “Chick’N Head” sandwich—made with inventive plant-based ingredients—quickly drew massive lines, even during the COVID-19 pandemic.
By 2020, additional Atlanta-area spots opened in Jonesboro and on Edgewood Avenue in the Old Fourth Ward. The brand’s playful, sex-positive branding and community focus helped it stand out, turning vegan eating into an inclusive, fun experience that attracted both plant-based enthusiasts and curious carnivores. Cole’s vision extended beyond food: she emphasized Black entrepreneurship, community investment, and redefining veganism as accessible and crave-worthy.
Rapid Growth—and Growing Pains
Photo credit: Bar Vegan Slutty Vegan expanded quickly. By 2023, it boasted around 11 locations across Georgia (including Atlanta metro spots, Athens, and Columbus), New York City (Brooklyn and Harlem), Birmingham, Alabama, and Dallas, with plans for monthly openings. Other ventures included a Baltimore location and a pop-up presence that reached places like Tampa’s Brandon area.
However, aggressive growth brought challenges. The chain faced lawsuits over rent and wages, and in 2024–2025, Cole temporarily lost ownership amid financial restructuring tied to high corporate debt. She bought the company back, reclaimed full control (now owning 100%), and shifted to a franchising model. Some locations closed during this period, trimming the footprint but setting the stage for a more sustainable national push. As of mid-2026, core locations include Edgewood and Jonesboro in the Atlanta area, plus outposts in Birmingham, Brooklyn, Baltimore, and Brandon, Florida.
Franchising Era: New Cities on the Horizon
In June 2026, Slutty Vegan announced its first official franchise agreements, marking a pivotal step in national expansion. In Atlanta, franchisees Khadejah Davis and Jamel Douglas—experienced operators behind Juici Patties—will open a new location, the first formal franchise in the brand’s hometown. This deepens roots where it all began.
11alive.comSimultaneously, franchise veteran Brandi Forte will lead development in Washington, D.C., bringing Slutty Vegan to the nation’s capital for the first time. Cole emphasized selecting partners who align with the brand’s cultural identity and business acumen: “Atlanta is where Slutty Vegan was born, and we’re planting deeper roots here while establishing our presence in D.C. This is bigger than the burgers. We’re creating opportunity and legacy.”
The company is on a multi-city tour to scout further opportunities, with franchising inquiries open nationwide. Current momentum suggests more announcements soon, potentially targeting underserved markets eager for bold vegan options.
How Many Slutty Vegan Locations Are There?
As of June 2026, the following Slutty Vegan locations are open according to the company’s official website.
- Jonesboro, GA
164 N McDonough St, Jonesboro, GA 30236
Hours: Mon-Tue closed; Wed-Thu 12PM-9PM; Fri-Sat 12PM-11PM; Sun 12PM-9PM. - Edgewood (Atlanta), GA
476 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Hours: Mon 12PM-6PM; Tue-Thu 12PM-12AM; Fri-Sat 12PM-1AM; Sun 12PM-12AM. - Birmingham, AL
7 55th Pl S, Birmingham, AL 35212
Hours: Mon & Sun closed; Tue-Thu 12PM-8PM; Fri-Sat 12PM-9PM. sluttyveganatl.com - Brooklyn, NY
690 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Hours: Mon 12PM-8PM; Tue-Thu 12PM-10PM; Fri-Sat 12PM-12AM; Sun 12PM-10PM. - Baltimore, MD
2120 Distillery St, Baltimore, MD 21230 (includes Slutty Vegan + Bar Vegan)
Hours: Mon-Sun 12PM-8PM. - Brandon, FL
2080 Badlands Dr, Brandon, FL 33511
Hours: Mon-Tue & Wed closed (or limited); Thu 12-8PM; Fri-Sat 12PM-10PM; Sun 12PM-8PM.
Upcoming / Opening Soon (as of early June 2026):
- Washington, D.C. — A franchise has been signed for 521 H Street Northeast (and broader D.C. development). It is listed as “COMING SOON.”
Why It Matters
Slutty Vegan’s story reflects broader trends: the rise of plant-based eating, the power of social media-driven brands, and the resilience of Black women entrepreneurs. Cole, a Clark Atlanta University alum named to TIME’s 100 Next list, has used her platform for philanthropy via the Pinky Cole Foundation and authored books like Eat Plants, Btch*. Her journey—from TV producer to restaurant mogul—embodies hustle amid setbacks.
en.wikipedia.orgAs it expands from Atlanta outward, Slutty Vegan isn’t just opening restaurants—it’s building a movement. Fans can expect the same irreverent energy, late-night hours at select spots, and mouthwatering vegan twists on classics. For those craving a “Sloppy Toppy” or similar, more cities may soon get sluttified.
Whether you’re a longtime Atlanta supporter or discovering the brand in a new market, one thing’s clear: Slutty Vegan’s expansion is heating up, and the plant-based party is just getting started. Keep an eye on franchise announcements—your city could be next. For the latest locations and updates, visit sluttyveganatl.com.
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- Jonesboro, GA
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Atlanta’s award-winning venue unveils a star-studded 19-night concert series featuring global superstars, perfectly timed with the world’s biggest soccer tournament.
ATLANTA — As Atlanta gears up to welcome the world for eight FIFA World Cup 2026 matches at nearby Mercedes-Benz Stadium, State Farm Arena is set to deliver an unforgettable soundtrack to the city’s summer celebration.
The downtown venue just announced Summer Kickoff ATL, a major concert series running from early June through late July that will bring chart-topping artists and global icons to its stage for 19 nights of high-energy performances.
“We are thrilled to have this fantastic lineup of global superstars, and welcome fans from around the world to State Farm Arena this summer,” said Trey Feazell, Executive Vice President of Arena Programming for the Hawks and State Farm Arena. “As we celebrate the best of live entertainment, where music, sports and culture intersect, we’re ready to provide fans and concertgoers alike some truly unforgettable nights.”
Star-Studded Lineup Coming To State Farm Arena This Dummer
State Farm Arena’s summer schedule features a diverse mix of genres and some of the biggest names in music:
- June 8 & 9 – Megan Moroney – The Cloud 9 Tour
- June 11 – A$AP Rocky – Don’t Be Dumb World Tour
- June 12 – Summer Walker – Still Finally Over It Tour
- June 16 – 5 Seconds of Summer – Everyone’s a Star! World Tour *
- June 25 – Alex Warren – Little Orphan Alex Live! *
- June 26 & 28 – Shakira – Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour *
- July 2 – Joji – Solaris Tour *
- July 6, 8 & 9 – Ariana Grande – The Eternal Sunshine Tour
- July 11 & 12 – Tame Impala – Deadbeat Tour *
- July 17 & 18 – J. Cole – The Fall-Off Tour
- July 19 – Lionel Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire – Sing A Song All Night Long Tour
- July 22 – Louis Tomlinson – How Did We Get Here? World Tour
- July 24 – Daniel Caesar – Son of Spergy Tour
(*Denotes shows that are part of Summer Kickoff ATL)
Shakira Spotlight
A major highlight of the series comes on June 26 and 28 when Shakira brings her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour to Atlanta. The Colombian superstar will perform at State Farm Arena just weeks before co-headlining the historic FIFA World Cup 2026™ Final Halftime Show on Sunday, July 19. Her new single “Dai Dai,” the Official FIFA World Cup 2026™ Song featuring Burna Boy, is available now on all major streaming platforms via Sony Music Latin.
A Venue Built for Big Moments
Renowned for its world-class production and intimate-yet-massive atmosphere, State Farm Arena has consistently ranked among the top 10 venues worldwide for live entertainment. Located steps away from Mercedes-Benz Stadium, it serves as the perfect companion venue during Atlanta’s landmark summer as a World Cup host city.
Fans can view the full schedule and purchase tickets at StateFarmArena.com/events.
Golden Ticket Sweepstakes
To build excitement, State Farm Arena is launching a limited-time “Golden Ticket” sweepstakes. One lucky winner will receive a pair of tickets to every show on the summer schedule from June 9 through July 24. Details on how to enter are available on the arena’s website and social channels.
With Atlanta poised to be a global focal point this summer, State Farm Arena is ensuring the city’s music scene shines just as brightly as its soccer spotlight. The venue’s stacked lineup promises nights of pure celebration — where music, culture, and world-class entertainment collide in the heart of downtown Atlanta.
Did somebody say live music? That’s what Atlanta has a lot of. From the small cubby holes you’ll find in the suburbs to the elegant stages of Midtown and Buckhead, ATL has music for your ears. Check out our Atlanta Live Music Guide to see who’s performing where.
You might also enjoy some spoken word or jazz brunches that Georgia’s largest city has to offer. We get down not just on fun-filled weekends, but through the week as well.
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ATLANTA, GA – Soccer fans in the Atlanta area have a exciting new option this summer. The Battery Atlanta will serve as a free public viewing venue for select matches of the FIFA World Cup transforming the Plaza Green into a vibrant fan zone for the world’s biggest soccer tournament.
Free World Cup Watch Party at The Battery Atlanta
Beginning Thursday, June 11, fans can gather at the Plaza Green to watch key group stage matches live on large screens in a lively, open-air setting. All games will be broadcast in their entirety, with no cost to attend.
“The Battery Atlanta is proud to bring the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 26™ directly to Atlanta fans,” organizers said. “Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or just looking for a great atmosphere, this is the perfect place to cheer on your favorite teams this summer.”
Schedule of Confirmed Group Stage Matches
The following schedule lists the matches currently scheduled for public viewing at The Battery Atlanta. All times are local (Eastern Time). The schedule is subject to change.
Thursday, June 11
- Mexico vs. South Africa – 3 p.m.
- Korea Republic vs. Czechia – 10 p.m.
Friday, June 12
- Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina – 3 p.m.
- United States vs. Paraguay – 9 p.m.
Sunday, June 14
- Germany vs. Curaçao – 1 p.m.
- Netherlands vs. Japan – 4 p.m.
- Côte d’Ivoire vs. Ecuador – 7 p.m.
- Sweden vs. Tunisia – 10 p.m.
Monday, June 15
- Spain vs. Cabo Verde – 12 p.m.
- Belgium vs. Egypt – 3 p.m.
Tuesday, June 16
- France vs. Senegal – 3 p.m.
- Argentina vs. Algeria – 9 p.m.
Wednesday, June 17
- Portugal vs. Congo DR – 1 p.m.
- England vs. Croatia – 4 p.m.
- Uzbekistan vs. Colombia – 10 p.m.
Thursday, June 18
- Czechia vs. South Africa – 12 p.m.
- Switzerland vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina – 3 p.m.
- Mexico vs. Korea Republic – 9 p.m.
Friday, June 19
- United States vs. Australia – 3 p.m.
Saturday, June 20
- Netherlands vs. Sweden – 1 p.m.
- Ecuador vs. Curaçao – 8 p.m.
Sunday, June 21
- Uruguay vs. Cabo Verde – 6 p.m.
- New Zealand vs. Egypt – 9 p.m.
Monday, June 22
- Argentina vs. Austria – 1 p.m.
- Norway vs. Senegal – 8 p.m.
Tuesday, June 23
- Portugal vs. Uzbekistan – 1 p.m.
- England vs. Ghana – 4 p.m.
- Panama vs. Croatia – 7 p.m.
- Colombia vs. Congo DR – 10 p.m.
Wednesday, June 24 through Saturday, June 27
- Matches to be announced (TBA)
Location
The Battery Atlanta
The Plaza Green
800 Battery Ave SE
Atlanta, GA 30339The Plaza Green offers a family-friendly environment with easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment options at The Battery Atlanta, located adjacent to Truist Park.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early for popular matches, especially those featuring the United States, Mexico, Argentina, England, and other major national teams. While seating is first-come, first-served, the open green space provides plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the games.
For the latest updates on the viewing schedule and any changes, visit the official The Battery Atlanta website or follow their social media channels.
This free public viewing series makes The Battery Atlanta one of the top destinations in Atlanta for an authentic World Cup atmosphere without needing a ticket to the matches themselves. Mark your calendars and get ready to cheer on your team!
The Atlanta Fair is just one of many things to do outdoors in the Georgia. Check out our list.
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Where them fans at? Southern soul fans in the Atlanta area are gearing up for a high-energy celebration of rhythm, blues, and feel-good grooves. The ATL Southern Soul Music Fest is scheduled for Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the scenic Wolf Creek Amphitheater in South Fulton, Georgia (just outside Atlanta).
ATL Southern Soul Music Fest: Event Details and Lineup
The event promises a full afternoon and evening of live performances from some of the biggest names in contemporary Southern soul and blues. Headliners and featured artists include:
- King George — The rising star known for smooth, nostalgic vocals and hits like “Keep On Rollin’,” “Too Long,” and “Girl You Got It.” His party-centric R&B tracks with old-school flair have made him a fan favorite.
- Sir Charles Jones
- 803 Fresh
- Tonio Armani
- Nephew Jones
- Money Train
Additional performers include Mike Clark Jr., Uncle Daddy, Charmeka Joquelle, and more.
Gates open at 3:00 PM, with the show starting at 5:00 PM and running until approximately 8:00 PM. It’s a BYOB event with free parking, making it easy and affordable for attendees to settle in for the day.
The Venue: Wolf Creek Amphitheater
Wolf Creek Amphitheater is a premier outdoor venue located on a picturesque 435-acre wooded site in South Fulton at 3025 Merk Road, Atlanta, GA 30349 (often listed in College Park or South Fulton areas).
It features reserved seating, table seating, and spacious lawn areas, with a capacity of approximately 5,420 guests. Its convenient location near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Camp Creek Marketplace makes it accessible for locals and out-of-town visitors alike.
The amphitheater has become a hub for diverse live music, festivals, and community events since its reopening, offering a relaxed, open-air atmosphere perfect for soul music under the Georgia sky.
Tickets and How to Attend
Tickets are on sale now through VarietyEnt.net and platforms like Etix, with options ranging from General Admission to reserved seating, table seats, Platinum VIP, and Skybox VIP suites. Prices start around $45 (plus fees) for pre-sale GA, though they may increase closer to the event.
For the latest updates, full lineup announcements, or ticket purchases, visit the official Wolf Creek Amphitheater site or Variety Entertainment’s page.
Why You Should Go
Southern soul music continues to thrive with its blend of blues, R&B, gospel influences, and relatable storytelling. This festival delivers a perfect mix of established legends and rising talents for an unforgettable day of live music, good vibes, and community. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or new to its infectious grooves, the ATL Southern Soul Music Fest is shaping up to be one of the must-attend events of the summer in Atlanta.
Don’t miss your chance to experience Southern soul at its finest—grab your tickets, bring your cooler, and get ready for a soul-stirring Saturday night!
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ATLANTA, Ga. — Georgia drivers will soon pay more at the pump after Governor Brian Kemp decided not to extend the state’s temporary suspension of the gas tax.The suspension, which provided relief on the state’s 33-cent-per-gallon tax on gasoline and 37-cent-per-gallon tax on diesel, will officially expire at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday night.
The taxes are expected to phase back in over the next few days.The move comes after the governor renewed the suspension to help families manage fuel costs during the Memorial Day weekend. With oil prices now holding relatively steady, the administration has chosen to let the relief expire while maintaining flexibility for future needs.In a statement, a spokesperson for Governor Kemp said:
“After renewing the suspension of the state gas tax to help hardworking Georgians get through the Memorial Day weekend with further relief, and with oil prices now holding relatively steady, the gas tax suspension will expire at 11:59pm tomorrow while the state also keeps a financial eye toward any unexpected needs in the future.”
The temporary waiver had offered Georgia motorists noticeable savings during a busy summer travel season. Its end means the full state fuel taxes will once again be added to the price of every gallon purchased in the state.Motorists are advised to fill up before midnight Tuesday where possible to take advantage of the final hours of the lower tax rate.
Tips to Save Gas and Stretch Your Dollars
With prices rising again, here are some practical ways Georgia drivers can reduce fuel consumption:
- Drive smarter: Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking. Maintain a steady speed and use cruise control on highways.
- Keep tires properly inflated: Underinflated tires can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 3%. Check pressure monthly.
- Lighten the load: Remove unnecessary heavy items from your trunk — every extra 100 pounds can decrease efficiency by about 1%.
- Combine trips and carpool: Fewer short trips mean less idling and cold starts, which burn extra fuel.
- Maintain your vehicle: Replace dirty air filters, keep up with oil changes, and get regular tune-ups to ensure optimal engine performance.
- Use AC wisely: At lower speeds, open windows instead of running the air conditioner; at highway speeds, close windows and use AC.
Motorists are advised to fill up before midnight Tuesday where possible to take advantage of the final hours of the lower tax rate. The state will continue to monitor energy markets and economic conditions moving forward.
The state will continue to monitor energy markets and economic conditions moving forward. For more details on the policy change, visit the official announcement here.
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In the latest episode of her podcast Humble Brag with co-host Crystal Kung Minkoff, former Real Housewives of Atlanta star and current “Friend of” Cynthia Bailey dropped exciting updates on the future of the long-running Bravo series.
Cynthia Bailey Confirms RHOA Season 18 Casting Underway
The revelation has fans buzzing as the show rides a wave of renewed energy in Season 17.
Quick Turnaround for Reunion
Bailey revealed that filming for the Season 17 reunion is scheduled to begin in just two weeks. This relatively quick post-filming timeline underscores Bravo’s confidence in the current season, which premiered on April 5, 2026, and has delivered plenty of drama through group trips, feuds, and fresh dynamics among the cast.
Season 17 features returning peach holders Porsha Williams, Phaedra Parks, Drew Sidora, Kelli Ferrell, Shamea Morton, and Angela Oakley, with newcomers like K. Michelle and Pinky Cole adding to the mix. Cynthia has been actively involved as a “Friend of,” appearing in episodes and stirring up her own moments, including pool house drama and calling out group tensions.
Casting for Season 18 Already in Motion
More significantly, Cynthia confirmed that casting for Season 18 is actively progressing. Bravo is reportedly scouting new talent while evaluating returns and potential status changes for the current lineup. This early start is typical for the franchise but signals that network executives are already planning ahead amid strong viewer interest.
Fan reactions are divided. Some want the current core cast—bolstered by Porsha and Phaedra’s returns—to stay intact and “marinate” for another season, while others are calling for big names like Kenya Moore, Nene Leakes, Kandi Burruss, or Shereé Whitfield to shake things up. Speculation is rampant about full-time upgrades, demotions, or “Friend of” roles for figures like Cynthia herself.
Cynthia’s Role and PerspectiveCynthia, a veteran of the series who has returned in a supporting capacity after previous full-time runs and breaks, shared insights into the current season’s filming experiences. She discussed watching dynamics unfold (including tensions involving Pinky, Angela, Kelli, and Shamea) and positioned herself as someone “not off limits” who can both give and receive “smoke” in the group.
Her podcast appearance comes as she balances reality TV with other ventures, including modeling, acting, and personal life updates. Co-hosting Humble Brag has given her a platform to reflect candidly on Housewives life while teasing what’s next.
What This Means for RHOA Fans
The confirmation points to a potentially transitional Season 18. With the reunion filming so soon, viewers can expect fireworks that will heavily influence casting decisions. Will Bravo double down on the revitalized energy from Porsha and Phaedra’s returns, or will legacy stars make comebacks? Early casting activity suggests the network is leaving doors open.
As one of the most iconic Housewives franchises, RHOA continues to evolve. Stay tuned—reunion episodes are likely to deliver the drama needed to set the stage for whatever comes in Season 18. Peaches, get ready!
This article is based on Cynthia Bailey’s statements on the Humble Brag podcast, as shared across social media and fan accounts on June 1, 2026.
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The Atlanta Fringe Festival is a vibrant, artist-driven multidisciplinary event that brings together theatre, dance, comedy, storytelling, puppetry, burlesque, magic, and more for two wild weeks each year in Atlanta, Georgia.
Now in its 14th edition (2026), it has grown into one of the city’s most exciting cultural happenings, emphasizing accessibility for creators and audiences alike. The Fringe Festival is one of Atlanta’s best festivals.
Origins and InspirationThe festival draws direct inspiration from the legendary Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which began in 1947 as an unjuried alternative to the official arts program. Like its Scottish counterpart, Atlanta Fringe prioritizes bold, original, and uncensored work from artists of all backgrounds and experience levels.
Atlanta Fringe Festival: Dates, Times, Info
A small group of Atlanta theatre lovers conceived the idea in 2010. The first festival debuted in 2012 with a handful of performances. Since then, it has expanded significantly while staying true to its grassroots roots. Produced by Twinhead Theatre, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the event operates with a dedicated volunteer committee and focuses on an artist-first model. en.wikipedia.org +1How Atlanta Fringe WorksUnlike juried festivals, Atlanta Fringe uses a lottery-based selection process. Artists submit during an open period (typically December–January), and selected participants pay low fees. In return, they receive:
- Guaranteed four performances plus one technical rehearsal in fully equipped venues.
- 100% of box office revenue (minus minimal fees).
- Professional photos of their shows.
- Opportunities for audience-voted awards, Critic’s Choice, and Producer’s Choice prizes. atlantafringe.org
This open-access approach lowers barriers, especially for emerging and underrepresented voices, fostering a diverse lineup of local, national, and occasional international talent.The 2026 Festival: May 27 – June 7The 14th annual edition runs for a full two weeks, featuring 51 artist groups across roughly 8 venues in vibrant East Atlanta neighborhoods like Little Five Points (L5P), East Atlanta Village, and nearby areas. Expect over 245 live acts and hundreds of individual performances.
Highlights include:
- Mainstage Shows — A mix of 27 Atlanta-based productions and 18+ touring acts from across the U.S. and one from Scotland. Genres span everything from intimate dramas to high-energy dance and improv. encoremagazine.com
- Free Preview Party (May 27 at 7 Stages) — Every artist gets two minutes to tease their show, plus special guests. Free but RSVP recommended.
- Five/5ths of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (June 1) — Five different groups each tackle a segment of the classic film in their own wild style.
- Atlanta Street Fringe — Free outdoor busking, music, dance, and comedy throughout L5P and East Atlanta Village.
- Kids Fringe — Family-friendly activities and performances on select weekends.
- Fringe Audio — A free podcasting component featuring original audio dramas and stories.
- Closing Party & Awards (June 7) — Celebration, cash prizes, and wrap-up festivities.
Venues include 7 Stages, Metropolitan Studios, The Supermarket, Dynamic El Dorado, and others—all within a compact, walkable/drivable cluster packed with food, drinks, and shopping options.
Atlanta Fringe Festival: Why It Matters
Atlanta Fringe creates space for experimental, boundary-pushing work that might not find a home in more traditional venues. It builds community by connecting artists with enthusiastic audiences in an atmosphere of joy and collaboration. Past participants often return, and the festival has paid out significant sums to artists, technicians, and staff over the years while drawing thousands of attendees.
Executive Director and co-founder Diana Brown, along with the core team (including Production Director Nadia Morgan and others), keeps the event running with passion and practicality—from securing venues to handling everything in between.Plan Your VisitTickets are available via the official site (atlantafringe.org), with options for single shows or multi-show passes. Pro tips from the organizers:
- Arrive early—shows start on time.
- Expect Atlanta heat and traffic; dress comfortably and budget extra travel time.
- Take advantage of nearby eats and festival badges for discounts. atlantafringe.org
Whether you’re a longtime theatre fan, curious newcomer, or visiting from out of town, the Atlanta Fringe Festival delivers an unforgettable dose of creativity and fun. It’s proof that independent arts thrive when given room to be weird, wonderful, and wildly entertaining.For the full schedule, artist lineup, and tickets, visit atlantafringe.org. See you in the audience!
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ATLANTA — Food lovers and soccer fans, get ready: Walton Street in downtown Atlanta will transform into a massive pedestrian-only food truck paradise during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Showcase Atlanta and the Food Truck Association of Georgia (FTAG) officially unveiled “Global Grub Alley” on Thursday, promising a vibrant corridor of up to 30 Atlanta-area food trucks for every match day — plus the day before each one.
Atlanta Introduces Global Grub Alley for World Cup
The quarter-mile stretch of Walton Street between Centennial Olympic Park Drive and Broad Street will close to vehicle traffic, creating a walkable feast zone right next to the action. The block from Walton and Cone to Broad will be fully pedestrian-only. Trucks will serve from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. each activation day, with no ticket required to join the fun.
Atlanta is set to host eight matches during the tournament, meaning 16 full days of Global Grub Alley spread across June and July 2026. The corridor sits just one block from Centennial Olympic Park, home to the official FIFA Fan Festival, making it a natural stop for fans heading to or from Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
“Atlanta food trucks have been asking for this kind of moment for years,” said Kelsey Maynor, Director of Small Business Engagement for Showcase Atlanta. “The World Cup is one of the largest sporting events the city has ever hosted… Global Grub Alley puts our small business owners and our food culture on the street, next to the biggest stage in the world. You will not need a ticket to be a part of it. You will just need to be hungry.”
The initiative is part of Showcase Atlanta’s broader effort to ensure major events like the World Cup and the 2028 Super Bowl create lasting opportunities for local small businesses.Montrella Rhodes, Administrator of FTAG, emphasized the long-term impact: “This is the kind of opportunity that pays off for years after the final match. A truck on Walton Street in front of a global audience is a truck whose phone keeps ringing in 2027 and 2028.”
Applications are now open for food truck vendors. FTAG members get priority, but spaces are available for others who meet permitting requirements. A full lineup will be released closer to match dates and can be viewed on Street Food Finder.
Local operator Sherman Gartrell of Wing Kingh Food Truck shared his excitement: “Events like this create a powerful platform for food truck owners to showcase their brand, connect with new customers from all over the world… We’re proud to be part of such an exciting event.”
Global Grub Alley: What to Know If You Go
- Location: Walton Street between Centennial Olympic Park Drive and Broad Street
- Hours: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. on match days and pre-match days
- Cost: Free to attend (pay for food and drinks at the trucks)
- Accessibility: Street-level access with portable restrooms
- Transit: Short walk from MARTA’s GWCC/CNN Center and Five Points stations
This activation highlights Atlanta’s growing food truck scene and its commitment to spotlighting local flavors for the world stage. As the city gears up for FIFA World Cup 2026™, Global Grub Alley promises to deliver an unforgettable mix of international soccer energy and hometown hospitality.
atlantaga.govStay tuned to Atlanta Local News for updates on the vendor lineup and exact match dates as they’re confirmed by FIFA.
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On the eve of the first World Cup match in Atlanta, there’s going to be an event happening at Zoo Atlanta that you may not wnat to miss.
The World Block Party presented will take place on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., offering an evening of culture, music, interactive fun, and wildlife exploration just before Atlanta’s first World Cup match.
World Block Party Taking Place at Zoo Atlanta
guests can connect with culture, learn, play, and explore with festivities designed for people of all ages. Zoo Atlanta will offer extended hours at Splash Fountain, rides, and the petting zoo, along with Ask-a-Keeper opportunities at a variety of animal habitats around the Zoo.
Don’t miss a host of special activities throughout the event:
- Test your skills with an inflatable soccer challenge.
- Catch a “Birds of the World” flighted presentation in the World of Wild Theater presented by Georgia Natural Gas.
- Watch live chalk art as created by Atlanta locals Fawne DeRosia and Heather Cap.
- Enjoy dance performances from Hawaii and New Zealand by Mahealani’s Polynesian Entertainment.
- Hear music from Mexico from Mariachi Búhos de Oro.
- Find The Joy of Jump Rope with Double Dutch Aerobics.
World Block Party is free for Zoo Atlanta Members; $19.95 for non-Member adults; and $14.95 for non-Member children. Children under 3 are always free. Get tickets here at zooatlanta.org.
Zoo Atlanta is the ideal family destination for exploring the wonders of wildlife from around the world and connecting with conservation, before and during the matches. Visit zooatlanta.org to plan your itinerary.
WHEN: Sunday, June 14, 2026, 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Zoo Atlanta: 800 Cherokee Avenue, S.E.; Atlanta GA 30315
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
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ATLANTA – The peaches are bruised, the alliances are fractured, and Sunday night’s episode of The Real Housewives of Atlanta promises to deliver the kind of drama that keeps Atlanta talking all week long.Fresh off what sources are calling an absolute blow-up in the previous episode, the ladies are still reeling in “Picking Up the Peaches.”
Drew Sidora steps into fixer mode, determined to steady the group and safeguard her professional reputation—but early previews suggest keeping the peace might be easier said than done.
RHOA Season 17, Episode 9: ‘Picking Up the Peaches’ –Fallout Looms as Drew Tries to Hold It Together
Expect lingering tension from the Dallas getaway and that chaotic sound bath session. Sneak peeks show Shamea Morton clapping back hard, telling cameras that Angela Oakley is “just mad for no damn reason.” Angela, meanwhile, wants to know why her name keeps coming up in everyone’s mouth.
Cynthia Bailey pops in to catch up on all the chaos she may have missed, getting the full tea from Angela and Pinky Cole about Phaedra Parks’ wild night. Surrogacy updates, side-eye galore, and more shade than a Georgia pine forest are also on the menu.
The mid-season trailer already teased major clashes involving Porsha Williams, K. Michelle, Drew, and more—this episode looks like it’s where the second half of the season really ignites.
What We’re Watching For:
- Can Drew actually pull the group back together, or will her efforts backfire spectacularly?
- More heat between Shamea and Angela—how long until it boils over?
- Porsha navigating her personal life while the group drama swirls.
- Classic RHOA moments of confessionals, glam, and unfiltered Atlanta realness.
If the first eight episodes of Season 17 have been any indication, “Picking Up the Peaches” is set to serve high fashion, higher emotions, and the kind of unforgettable one-liners that make RHOA a Sunday staple.
Tune in tonight at 8/7c on Bravo. Don’t forget to set your DVR and prepare your group chat—Atlanta’s finest are bringing the heat.Stay locked in with Atlanta News Network for full recaps, cast reactions, and all the post-episode buzz tomorrow.
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