Category: Atlanta

As the fall breeze begins to whisper through the Peach State’s magnolias, Atlanta’s cultural scene is set to bloom with Eastern elegance. Today and tomorrow, the Gas South Convention Center in Duluth transforms into a gateway to the Land of the Rising Sun as JapanFest Atlanta kicks off its 2025 celebration.

JapanFest Atlanta: What To Know Before You Go

JapanFest is one of metro Atlanta’s best festivals. With the theme “Taste of Japan,” this two-day extravaganza promises a feast for the senses, marking 50 years of Japanese presence in Georgia and the city’s enduring sister-city bond with Fukuoka, Japan.

Organized by the nonprofit JapanFest Inc., in partnership with the Japan-America Society of Georgia and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Georgia, the festival draws thousands of visitors annually to foster cross-cultural understanding.

“JapanFest is more than an event—it’s a bridge between our communities, celebrating the shared values of harmony, innovation, and creativity that define both Japan and the Southeast,” said event coordinator Mika Tanaka in a recent press release.

Supported by the Consulate-General of Japan in Atlanta, this year’s lineup highlights authentic traditions alongside modern twists, ensuring something for anime enthusiasts, foodies, families, and history buffs alike.

A Culinary Journey Through the Archipelago

True to its theme, “Taste of Japan” spotlights the nation’s diverse flavors, from street food staples to regional specialties. Attendees can savor takoyaki (octopus-filled balls), fresh sushi rolls, and ramen bowls steaming with umami-rich broths at on-site food stalls.

For a nod to the sister-city relationship, expect Fukuoka-inspired dishes like Hakata tonkotsu ramen and mentaiko (spicy cod roe) — a spicy seafood delight that’s as bold as Atlanta’s own Southern heat.

Vendors will also hawk authentic imports: matcha teas, mochi sweets, and premium sake tastings for those 21 and older. “It’s a chance to taste the real Japan without a 14-hour flight,” laughed local food blogger Sarah Kim, who attended last year’s fest.

Pro tip: Arrive hungry, but pace yourself — the lines for okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) can rival I-85 at rush hour.

Performances That Spin History into Spectacle

The main stage at the Gas South Convention Center (6400 Sugarloaf Parkway) will pulse with energy from 10 a.m. onward both days.

Kicking off the highlights is Hakata Koma, a mesmerizing 480-year-old art form from Fukuoka featuring master spinner Chikushi Shuraku the 3rd. Watch in awe as traditional wooden tops whirl at impossible speeds, a performance designated as Fukuoka’s first Intangible Cultural Property.

It’s a rare treat, blending precision craftsmanship with rhythmic flair — think of it as Georgia’s fiddlin’ meets Japan’s ancient ingenuity.

Kabuki theater, a UNESCO-recognized treasure, makes a triumphant return with dramatic tales of samurai valor and ghostly intrigue. Adding levity is Broadway star Katsura Sunshine, the “King of Kimono Comedy,” delivering Rakugo — a traditional form of Japanese stand-up storytelling that’s equal parts wit and wardrobe malfunction.

For the younger crowd (or the young at heart), expect Taiko drumming that shakes the rafters and Kendo demonstrations showcasing the disciplined dance of bamboo swords.

The schedule brims with variety: Catch “Ninjutsu, Fact and Fiction,” a 1 p.m. seminar by the Atlanta Bujinkan dojo demystifying the shadowy world of ninja lore, or groove to J-pop covers by local K-pop fusion bands. Full lineup details are available at japanfest.org/schedule.

Exhibits, Anime, and Shopping Galore

Beyond the stage, the convention center’s halls overflow with interactive exhibits. Dive into hands-on workshops on origami folding, calligraphy, and ikebana (flower arranging), or explore a replica tea ceremony that emphasizes mindfulness amid the festival’s buzz.

Anime fans won’t want to miss the cosplay contest and vendor booths stocked with manga, figurines, and rare merch — a mecca for otaku in the A-T-L.Art lovers can browse galleries of ukiyo-e woodblock prints and contemporary photography, while history buffs ponder artifacts from Georgia’s 50-year Japanese legacy, including early immigrant stories from the post-WWII era.

Shopping? Over 100 vendors offer everything from vintage kimonos (check out booth V40 for a stunning collection) to high-tech gadgets, with proceeds supporting educational programs in local schools.Practical Info: Your Weekend Itinerary

• Dates & Hours: Saturday, Sept. 20 (10 a.m. – 6 p.m.); Sunday, Sept. 21 (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.).
• Location: Gas South Convention Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, GA 30097 (just a short MARTA ride or 30-minute drive from downtown Atlanta).
• Tickets: Advance purchase recommended at $16 per adult (available until yesterday; now $20 at the door). Kids 6 and under free; seniors and military $16. Family packs: $70 for four, $90 for five (door only). Buy at japanfest.org/tickets.
• Accessibility: Free parking, wheelchair-friendly venues, and English/Japanese signage throughout. Download the event app for real-time maps and notifications.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning samurai, JapanFest Atlanta 2025 offers a timely escape into wonder — a reminder that in our global city, cultures don’t just coexist; they collaborate. Grab your yukata and join the festivities. Who knows? You might just discover your inner sumo wrestler.

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For three decades, the ‘got milk?’ mustache has stood as a timeless symbol of strength, style, and enduring appeal. To mark this anniversary, Mayfield Dairy Farms is teaming up with the “got milk?” creators for an exclusive Got Milk? Photo Studio Tour stop in Atlanta—available for just this weekend.

Where The ‘Got Milk’ Campaign Will Be In Atlanta

Atlanta United Game

• Atlanta United FC MLS Game
• Saturday, September 20
• Where: Mercedes-Benz Stadium Parking Lot – 1 Backyard Way (Home Depot Backyard)
• When: 11:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Peachtree Corners Festival

• Sunday, September 21
• Where: 5140 Town Center Blvd, Peachtree Corners (near the car show area)
• When: Noon – 5 p.m.

Step Into the Spotlight: Create Your Own Milk Mustache LegacyAttendees at both events can channel the spirit of the legendary ads by getting styled with a custom milk mustache, posing in the pop-up photo studio, and taking home a free personalized print. This interactive experience puts everyday heroes—families, students, and locals—at the heart of the celebration, honoring the authenticity, pride, and resilience that have defined the campaign for generations.

As part of a nationwide tour spanning from California to Boston, the Atlanta activation invites you to join thousands who’ve already captured their portraits.

As part of a nationwide tour spanning from California to Boston, the Atlanta activation invites you to join thousands who’ve already captured their portraits. Highlights include:

• Custom Styling: Get your own iconic milk mustache look.
• Professional Photo Session: Strike a pose in the on-site pop-up studio.
• Keepsake Print: Walk away with a complimentary, personalized Got Milk? photo.
• Local Treats: Enjoy milk and cookies sourced from Mayfield Dairy Farms, your hometown dairy favorite.

This is your chance to become part of the ‘got milk?’ magic—whether with a big grin or bold flair, every portrait celebrates 30 years of fun, one unforgettable ‘stache at a time.”

Mayfield Dairy Farms has been a staple on Atlanta tables for generations, so we’re thrilled to bring the Got Milk? Photo Studio Tour home,” said Roger Roberts, General Manager at Mayfield Dairy Farms.

“The milk mustache has always represented strength and joy, and now our community can make it their own through these custom portraits.”Don’t miss this limited-time event—head to the tour and let your inner icon shine!

Immerse Yourself In Your Atlanta

Atlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!

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National Cheeseburger Day on September 18, 2025, brings a variety of deals to Atlanta’s burger lovers. Here’s a roundup of confirmed specials from chains and restaurants.

Are y’all ready to eat? Note that participation may vary by location, so it’s wise to verify with specific restaurants before heading out.

Check Out These National Cheeseburger Day Deals in Atlanta

• Applebee’s: Get one of three Classic Handcrafted Burgers (Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, Classic Cheeseburger, or Classic Burger) with Classic Fries for $8.99. Valid for dine-in, to-go, online, or app orders on September 18.
• Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar: Offers a Double Classic Smash Burger with a choice of side (fries, sweet potato fries, tots, or homemade chips) for $10. Available for dine-in or online orders at all locations, including Atlanta-area spots.
• Buffalo’s Café: Purchase a cheeseburger and get a free Pepsi on September 18.
• Burger King: Royal Perks members can score a free Bacon Cheeseburger with a $1+ purchase via the app or website on September 18. Other deals during their Perks Week (September 15–21) include a free Cheeseburger on September 20 with a $1+ purchase. Check Atlanta locations for participation.
• Checkers & Rally’s: Get a Big Buford burger for $3 from September 16–18, while supplies last, at participating locations. Confirm with Atlanta-area restaurants.
• Dairy Queen: DQ Rewards members can grab a free Double Original Cheeseburger Stackburger with a $1+ app or online order, valid September 15–19. Check Atlanta locations for participation.
• McDonald’s: Offers Double Cheeseburgers for $0.50 via the app, limited to one per customer. Atlanta locations are likely participating, but confirm in the app.
• Smashburger: A Classic Smash Double Burger for $5 on September 18, available at participating locations. Verify with Atlanta stores via the app or in-store.
• Wendy’s: Expected to offer a Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger for $0.01 with an additional in-app purchase. Confirm day-of in the Wendy’s app for Atlanta locations.
• BurgerFi: Buy one single cheeseburger, get another for $1 on September 18, available at participating locations. Check Atlanta-area BurgerFi restaurants.
• Buffalo Wild Wings: Blazin’ Rewards members can buy one burger and get another of equal or lesser value free, valid for dine-in, takeout, or delivery via the website or app on September 18.

Final Word

Cheeseburgers aside, there are some dynamic neighborhoods in Atlanta when it comes to food. One of the best places to eat is 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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The Atlanta Community Food Bank, a key player in combating hunger across Atlanta and North Georgia, has received a $100,000 grant from Norfolk Southern’s Thriving Communities Grant Program.

Launched in 2023, this program supports organizations focused on safety, sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience.

The grant will fund the Food Bank’s school pantry program, providing nutritious food to low-income students and their families throughout the school year.
The program targets schools in the Food Bank’s 29-county service area where at least 50% of students qualify for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program.

Norfolk Southern, a longtime partner, continues to make a tangible impact.

“One in six children in our service area faces hunger, which affects their ability to focus in school,” said Kyle Waide, President and CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. “We’re thankful for Norfolk Southern’s support in helping us provide food to children and families, empowering them to thrive.”

In addition to the grant, Norfolk Southern employees volunteered over 200 hours in Fiscal Year 2025, sorting food and packing boxes for distribution to those in need.

“Access to essential resources is the foundation of thriving communities,” said Kristin Wong, Director of the Norfolk Southern Foundation & Community Impact. “Supporting the Food Bank’s school pantry program helps build a healthier future for children and families.”

With partners like Norfolk Southern, the Food Bank serves hundreds of thousands of families annually, providing not just food but also the resources to foster stability and growth.

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In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through Georgia’s legal and political circles, the Georgia Supreme Court today upheld the disqualification of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis from prosecuting the high-profile election interference case against President Donald Trump and his associates.

The 4-3 decision, issued on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, effectively bars Willis and her office from continuing the case, casting significant doubt on the future of what was once the last remaining criminal prosecution against the president stemming from his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results in Georgia.

The ruling stems from a long-simmering controversy over Willis’s romantic relationship with Nathan Wade, a special prosecutor she hired to lead the investigation. Revelations about the relationship, which became public in early 2024, led to accusations of an “appearance of impropriety” and potential conflicts of interest.

Here’s Willis announcing the original charges against Trump and his co-defendants:

Although Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee initially allowed Willis to remain on the case in March 2024—provided Wade stepped down—the Georgia Court of Appeals reversed that decision in December 2024, voting 2-1 to remove Willis and her office entirely.

Today’s Supreme Court decision declines to hear Willis’s appeal of the appeals court’s ruling, leaving the disqualification in place. The high court’s action means the case will now be reassigned to a new prosecutor through the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia, a process that could delay proceedings indefinitely or even lead to the charges being dropped altogether.

“This is a rare case in which DA Willis and her office must be disqualified due to a significant appearance of impropriety,” the appeals court had written in its December ruling, a sentiment echoed in the Supreme Court’s refusal to intervene. The majority opinion highlighted that the trial court’s remedy—removing Wade—did not sufficiently address the impropriety that occurred during the early stages of the prosecution, when key decisions about charges and targets were made.

Read the Georgia Supreme Court Ruling Here

Background on the Case

The indictments in question were handed down in August 2023, charging Trump and 18 co-defendants—including former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows and attorneys Sidney Powell and John Eastman—with racketeering (RICO) violations and other crimes related to an alleged scheme to subvert Joe Biden’s 2020 victory in Georgia.

The case centered on Trump’s infamous January 2023 phone call to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, where he urged the official to “find 11,780 votes,” as well as efforts to pressure state officials and create fake electors.

Fani Willis, a Democrat elected as Fulton County’s DA in 2020, spearheaded the investigation, making it one of four major criminal cases against Trump launched in 2023.

Two federal cases led by Special Counsel Jack Smith were dropped following Trump’s re-election in November 2024, and the New York hush-money case resulted in a conviction but has been mired in appeals.

The Georgia case was the sole state-level prosecution still active until today’s ruling.

The disqualification motion was first filed in January 2024 by Michael Roman, a Trump campaign operative and one of the defendants, who alleged that Willis benefited financially from the relationship through lavish vacations funded by Wade’s payments from the county.

Willis and Wade testified that she reimbursed him in cash for her share of expenses, but the optics fueled months of legal battles and public scrutiny.

Willis Speaks Out

Willis responded swiftly to the ruling via email statement, expressing disagreement but committing to cooperation. “I hope that whoever is assigned to handle the case will have the courage to do what the evidence and the law demand,” she said, directing her office to turn over all case files and evidence to the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council.

Trump’s legal team hailed the decision as vindication. Attorney Steve Sadow, representing the president, stated, “We will use all legal options available as we continue to fight to end this case, which should never have been brought in the first place.”

Defense attorneys for co-defendants, including Ashleigh Merchant representing Roman, celebrated the outcome, arguing it corrects a “failure of judgment” by Willis.

Legal experts in Atlanta are divided on the implications. Some, like former prosecutor Jordan Rubin, noted the Supreme Court’s dissent, where justices argued the trial court had broad discretion and that the appeals panel overstepped by interfering.

“This could effectively end the Georgia prosecution,” Rubin observed, pointing to the challenges a new prosecutor might face in politically conservative districts outside metro Atlanta.

The ruling also reignites debates about prosecutorial ethics and the politicization of justice in Georgia, a battleground state where Trump’s 2020 loss by a narrow margin remains a flashpoint.

Local Democrats expressed frustration, with one Atlanta City Council member calling it a “blow to accountability,” while Republican leaders praised it as upholding impartiality.

What’s Next for the Case?

With Willis sidelined, the Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council must now appoint a replacement, potentially from another district. However, experts suggest that given Trump’s status as sitting president and the case’s sensitivity, a new prosecutor might opt not to pursue the charges aggressively—or at all.

Federal precedents indicate that prosecuting a sitting president is fraught with constitutional hurdles, further clouding the path forward.Fulton County residents, many of whom followed the case closely amid its twists and turns, are left wondering if justice will ever be served.

The development marks yet another chapter in Atlanta’s role at the center of national politics, as the city grapples with the fallout from one of its most controversial legal sagas.

This story is developing, and AtlantaFi.com will provide updates as more information becomes available.

As summer fades into fall, Metro Atlanta is buzzing with excitement for Kids Free September, a month-long celebration offering free admission and activities for children at some of the region’s top attractions.

This annual promotion, running from September 2 through September 30, 2025, invites families to explore educational, cultural, and outdoor experiences without breaking the bank.

What Is Kids Free September?

Below is your guide to the best free activities and places for kids in Metro Atlanta this September, perfect for creating lasting memories with your little ones.

Atlanta Attractions Offering Free Admission for Kids

Many of Atlanta’s premier attractions are participating in Kids Free September, offering free or discounted admission for children with the purchase of an adult ticket. Note that some offers exclude special events, group bookings, or other promotions, and most are valid only after Labor Day (September 2). Always check the attraction’s website for specific terms and conditions.

Georgia Aquarium

Dive into an underwater adventure at the Georgia Aquarium, where kids can explore marine life from sharks to penguins. For September 2025, purchase a general admission ticket online and receive a free child’s admission (ages 3-12). This offer is valid online only from September 2 to September 30 and cannot be combined with other discounts.

Georgia Aquarium review: What To Know, What To Do

College Football Hall of Fame

Get in the game with a visit to the College Football Hall of Fame! Throughout September (excluding Labor Day, September 1), one adult ticket purchase grants one free child’s ticket (ages 12 and under) for weekday visits.

Kids can enjoy interactive exhibits, inflatables, games, and mascot appearances, especially during the Football Fest and Free Day on August 30, 2025, which kicks off the season with free admission for all.

High Museum of Art

Art lovers can explore the High Museum’s renowned collection, including works by Faith Ringgold. Children ages 5 and under are always free, but September brings additional savings with a Family Saver offer: 20% off two or more general admission tickets using promo code FAMILY2025. Additionally, the second Sunday of the month (September 14, 2025) offers free admission for all from noon to 5 p.m., with SmARTbox activities for kids ages 2-12.

Zoo Atlanta

Roar into September with a special offer at Zoo Atlanta! Use code FALL25 at checkout to receive $15 off a membership plus one free month, granting unlimited daytime admission, including October’s Boo at the Zoo event. Kids under 3 are always free, making this a budget-friendly way to explore the zoo’s animals and exhibits.

Read our Atlanta Zoo Guide to find out what to see and do.

Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory University

On Sunday, September 7, 2025, join Sunday FUNday at the Carlos Museum for a free drop-in artmaking program. Families can create art, explore galleries, and connect past with present. This event celebrates Kids Free September with a buy-one-get-one-free admission deal (one adult ticket includes one free child’s ticket), valid for walk-in visits from September 1 to September 30 (excluding September 27).

Jimmy Carter Library & Museum

Kids 16 and under enjoy free admission year-round at the Jimmy Carter Library & Museum, in keeping with the wishes of former President Jimmy Carter. Families can explore the Oval Office replica, historical exhibits, and 35 acres of ponds and grounds with a Nature Journal. This is a perfect spot for an educational outing any day in September.

Free Outdoor and Cultural Activities

Metro Atlanta’s parks, nature preserves, and historic sites offer endless opportunities for free family fun. These destinations are ideal for kids to burn off energy while learning about history, nature, and culture.

Historic Oakland Cemetery

Atlanta’s oldest public park, Oakland Cemetery, is free to visit and spans 48 acres of history, gardens, and architecture. Kids can explore the grounds, learn about notable figures like Civil War soldiers and golfing legend Bobby Jones, and enjoy the natural beauty of ancient oaks and magnolias.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

This 35-acre, family-friendly park is free and offers a deep dive into the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Families can take free guided tours of Dr. King’s birth home (timed tickets required) and explore landmarks, monuments, and exhibits at the Visitor Center or King Center.

Piedmont Park

A favorite for Atlanta families, Piedmont Park offers free access to playgrounds, green spaces, and walking trails.

On July 26, 2025, the park hosts a free ice cream festival with music and kids’ activities, but its playgrounds and open spaces are perfect for September outings too. Check the park’s calendar for additional free events.

Dunwoody Nature Center

Open from sunrise to sunset, this 22-acre nature center offers free admission to hiking trails, playgrounds, tree swings, and more. Join the guided hike on the first Saturday of September (September 6, 2025) for a family-friendly exploration of the shaded grounds.

Big Creek Greenway

For active families, the Big Creek Greenway provides shaded bike paths and walking trails for free family fun. This scenic trail is perfect for biking, walking, or simply enjoying nature together.

Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area

Located 20 miles east of downtown Atlanta, this 2,000-acre preserve offers free access to hiking trails, lakes, and a nature preserve. Kids can fish, bike, or join interpretive hikes to learn about the area’s unique ecosystem. Don’t forget to grab a National Parks Passport Book stamp!

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center

In Johns Creek, this 46-acre preserve offers free access to three miles of trails, animal exhibits (featuring Pebbles the tortoise and Maggie the goat), and Heritage Village buildings. Check their calendar for free family activities throughout September.

Additional Free Activities

• Library Storytimes: Visit kid-focused bookstores like Little Shop of Stories in Decatur or Virginia Highland Books for free storytimes throughout September. These cozy events spark a love for reading in young children.
• Atlanta BeltLine: This urban trail is free to explore and offers a unique way to see public art, parks, and city views. Kids will love the open spaces and vibrant murals.
• Woodruff Park Playground: Located in downtown Atlanta, this ATL-themed playground with climbing walls, slides, and spinners is free and perfect for kids to burn off energy.

Final Word

Remember to plan ahead. Some attractions require online ticket purchases or reservations (e.g., Georgia Aquarium, MLK birth home tours). Many free locations, like the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park and Woodruff Park, are near downtown, making it easy to visit multiple spots in one day.

But that’s not all: Georgia has some beautiful state parks you can check out along the way. Here’s a guide.

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Monster Jam is one of the major events in motorsports, combining world-class athletes with 12,000-pound trucks — and it’s happening this weekend in the Atlanta area.

Monster Jam 2025 Atlanta: Everything You Want To Know

The show features high octane spontaneous entertainment and intense competition, featuring the most recognizable trucks in the world.

Get ready to rev your engines, Atlanta! The world’s most jaw-dropping motorsport spectacle, Monster Jam, is tearing into Gas South Arena in Duluth on September 6 and 7, 2025, for a weekend packed with heart-pounding action, gravity-defying stunts, and 12,000-pound monster trucks that’ll leave you screaming for more! Whether you’re a die-hard gearhead or just looking for an unforgettable family adventure, this is the event to kick off your fall with a roar.Bigger, Bolder, and As Big As It Gets™!Monster Jam isn’t just a show—it’s an adrenaline-charged experience where the world’s most iconic monster trucks, driven by elite athletes, battle it out in a dirt-flying frenzy. Picture this: massive trucks like Grave Digger, El Toro Loco, and Megalodon soaring through the air, pulling off backflips, standing on two wheels, and crushing everything in their path. From high-speed races to jaw-dropping freestyle competitions, every moment is unscripted, unexpected, and totally unforgettable.This year’s Metro Atlanta event at Gas South Arena (6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Duluth, GA 30097) promises non-stop thrills across four electrifying shows:

• Saturday, September 6: 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM
• Sunday, September 7: 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM

Fans will be on the edge of their seats as top drivers, including Tyler Menninga (Grave Digger), Kayla Blood (Sparkle Smash), and Tristan England (JCB DIGatron), compete in three epic competitions: Racing, 2 Wheel Skills, and the fan-favorite Freestyle, where drivers push their trucks to the limit with insane stunts. And here’s the kicker—YOU, the audience, help score the drivers in real-time to crown the Event Champion

More Than Just a Show: The Ultimate Fan Experience

Monster Jam is all about family fun, and the action starts long before the trucks hit the dirt. Kick off your day at the Monster Jam Pit Party (Saturday and Sunday, 10:30 AM–12:30 PM), where you can get up close to these mechanical beasts, snap selfies, meet your favorite drivers, and score autographs. Kids will love the Sand Box play area, inflatable slides, and Spin Master remote control truck course.

A Pit Party Pass is required (starting at $20), so grab yours with your tickets to join the pre-show funWant even more? Arrive early for Monster Jam Trackside, happening about an hour before each show.

It’s your chance to catch driver interviews, peek behind the scenes with the pit crew, and score some epic giveaways.

Plus, stick around after the show for the Post-Event Driver Meet & Greet (additional pass required), where you can mingle with the superstars, snap photos, and take home an official Monster Jam souvenir like a 3’x5’ checkered flag—perfect for autographs

Meet the Monster Jam SuperstarsThese aren’t just trucks—they’re 12,000-pound titans piloted by world-class athletes who’ve mastered the art of defying physics. Keep an eye out for fan favorites like:

• Grave Digger, driven by Tyler Menninga, a black-and-green wrecking machine ready to dominate.
• Sparkle Smash, with Kayla Blood bringing fierce style and fearless stunts.
• El Toro Loco, piloted by Armando Castro, charging through the competition with untamed energy.
• Megalodon, driven by Todd LeDuc, ready to chomp the competition with jaw-dropping moves.

With 12 top drivers vying for a spot in the Monster Jam World Finals in Salt Lake City next summer, the stakes are sky-high, and the action is fiercer than ever.

Tickets and Tips for an Epic WeekendTickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com, starting at just $20, so don’t wait—these seats will sell out faster than a monster truck sprint! Monster Jam Preferred Customers can snag the best seats with an exclusive pre-sale code (sign up for free at MonsterJam.com). General public sales are open, so lock in your spot for this high-octane weekend.

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Get ready to unleash your inner panda enthusiast because Panda Fest is back in the Peach State for its second round of 2025 this weekend in Atlanta, transforming Atlantic Station’s Pinnacle Lot into a vibrant celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) culture from September 5-7, 2025.

Founded by BiuBiu Xu, the mastermind behind New York’s Dragon Fest, Panda Fest started as a one-day “Panda Day” street fair and has grown into a multi-city sensation. Atlanta’s love for pandas—still strong despite Zoo Atlanta’s pandas returning to China in 2024—made it the perfect first stop for the festival’s national tour. “Atlanta holds a special place in Panda Fest’s story,” Xu said. “We’re thrilled to bring it back for a second time in 2025.” With its sold-out debut and a 50,000-person waitlist, it’s clear Atlantans are ready for more panda-monium.

After a wildly successful debut in April, Atlanta becomes the first city to host this paw-some festival twice in one year, and it’s gearing up to be bigger, tastier, and more panda-tastic than ever.

What To Know About Panda Fest: A Culinary Journey Across Asia

Prepare your taste buds for a whirlwind tour of Asia with over 70 food vendors serving up more than 300 dishes from countries like China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. From steaming bao buns and crispy Korean fried chicken to refreshing bubble teas and decadent panda-shaped desserts, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Local favorites like Kamayan ATL, Mukja, and Food Terminal will be joined by culinary stars from New York, Orlando, Miami, and Nashville, ensuring a diverse lineup of flavors. Organizers have even upgraded the festival this time around, with popular vendors offering multiple stations and two portion sizes so you can sample more without overloading your plate—or your wallet!

Vegetarians and vegans, fear not—many vendors will have plant-based options to keep you fueled for the fun.

What To Expect: Panda-Themed Fun for All Ages

What’s a panda party without a little whimsy? The festival will be decked out with panda decorations galore, including a show-stopping 15-foot inflatable panda that’s practically begging for a selfie.

Kids (and kids at heart) can bounce around in the panda inflatable or try their hand at Panda Dough Figurine crafting, Panda Painting DIY, and Panda Face Painting.

General Admission tickets come with two free gifts—a customized panda pin featuring a Georgia peach and an inflatable panda headband—while VIP tickets score you an exclusive tote bag, access to shaded seating, a private bar, and fast-pass entry to skip the lines.

A Cultural Extravaganza

Beyond the food, Panda Fest is a feast for the senses with live performances showcasing AAPI traditions. Expect lion dance shows, K-pop and Thai dance routines, and traditional crafts like sugar painting and calligraphy.

The artisan market will feature over 25 vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to panda-inspired trinkets, perfect for snagging a unique souvenir. Whether you’re grooving to contemporary Asian pop or marveling at theatrical acts, the festival’s vibrant energy will keep you entertained all weekend long.

Event Details and How to Join the Party

Panda Fest runs from noon to 5 p.m. on Friday, September 5; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, September 6; and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, September 7, at Atlantic Station’s Pinnacle Lot (221 20th St., Atlanta, GA 30363). Early Bird tickets are $10 (until July 27 or sold out), General Admission is $14 ($16 on Saturday), and VIP tickets are $35. Tickets are non-refundable and tied to specific time slots, but organizers will try to accommodate emergencies. Parking is available at Atlantic Station (fees apply), and rideshare users can use the drop-off at 241 20th Street. For MARTA users, take the red or gold line to Arts Center Station and hop on the free Atlantic Station shuttle to the Atlantic Drive stop.

Final Word

Well-behaved dogs are also invited, as long as they’re on a short leash and up-to-date on vaccinations—just keep them away from the food stalls, please! With picnic tables available (first-come, first-served) and extra drink stations to keep the crowds hydrated, Panda Fest is designed for comfort and fun. Just remember: no outside food, drinks, or vaping allowed, and small bags may be checked at the entrance.

For more details and to purchase tickets, visit Panda Fest’s website. The event will take place rain or shine, and media and influencer credentials will be available at a later date.

At this point, Atlanta cuisine has become indispensable to the South. The largest city in Georgia’s food festivals and culinary events set the tone for the entire Southeast. 

Only in Atlanta can the casual observer find specialty food shops, off-the-beaten-path restaurants, farmers’ markets and farm stands all at an affordable price point.

But Atlanta also has trendy restaurants, pop-ups and time-tested landmarks that continue to draw big crowds.

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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