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A three-year drought doesn’t sound like much for some teams, but for the Atlanta Hawks, it’s felt like an eternity.
On Thursday night, the Hawks face the New York Knicks in a game 3 showdown for the lead in their best-of-seven playoff matchup.
“That’s something you always want to do when you’re on the road in your first two games; you always try to get one,” Hawks star forward Jalen Johnson said, referring to the Hawks’ game two win at Madison Square Garden. “Coming back home, knowing you’re playing in front of the fans and playing in an arena you’re comfortable in, it’s exciting.”
Atlanta Hawks host playoff game for first time in 2023
Hawks guard CJ McCollum, “It’s going to be a great environment. I’m sure the city’’ be excited. We’re excited to be home and … looking forward to competing against a good team at home.”
McCollum played the spoiler on Monday night, scoring 32 points to help the Hawks rally for a stunning 107-106 victory that tied the Eastern Conference first-round series at one game apiece.
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Cardi B closed out her record-breaking “Little Miss Drama Tour” with the last show on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta—the second of two nights there.
Recap: Cardi B’s Last Show in Atlanta’s State Farm Arena
This marked the end of her 35-city sold-out arena tour supporting her second album Am I the Drama? (released earlier in 2026), which became the highest-grossing debut arena tour by a female rapper in history.
Pre-Show Drama
The night had its signature “drama” even before Cardi took the stage.
She went live on social media ranting about alleged disrespect and rudeness from State Farm Arena staff, heavily cursing, threatening to cancel, and calling them out.
Despite the heated exchange and a noticeably late start (consistent with the Friday show’s delay), the concert proceeded as scheduled to a packed, sold-out crowd.
She later emphasized using power with kindness in a follow-up message.
Performance Highlights
Once onstage, Cardi delivered her trademark high-energy mix of rap, humor, Bronx attitude, and theatrical flair in a show that felt like a blend of comedy, nightclub, and full concert.
She performed for roughly two hours with strong stamina, sharp delivery, and crowd interaction, pulling from her new album tracks and massive hits.
Key elements from the tour (and likely similar for the finale) included:- Opener and vibe: She emerged in eye-catching outfits (like a bedazzled bodysuit on Friday), starting with newer songs such as “Hello,” “Magnet,” and “Salute” from Am I the Drama?, then blending in club bangers like “Money,” “WAP,” “Up,” and classics. blog.ticketmaster.com
- Latin/Caribbean stretch: A vibrant section with dancers, flags, and tracks like “Taki Taki,” highlighting her Dominican and Trinidadian roots.
- Atlanta-specific moments: The city connection shone through with local pride—Cardi reminded the crowd “Atlanta still [her] city.” Surprise guests included Atlanta artists Mariah the Scientist, Jeezy (performing hits like “Put On”), and T.I. (with “Let ‘Em Know” or similar). Celebrities like Meagan Good, Hennessy Carolina, T.I. and Tiny, and Angel Reese were also spotted in attendance. instagram.com
The setlist typically featured around 30-37 songs, heavy on new material with live debuts earlier in the tour, plus fan favorites ending strongly with tracks like “Bodak Yellow.” - It included high-production elements: fireworks, costume changes, audience participation (e.g., dance-offs or strip-club-style segments in some shows), and her charismatic banter that turned potential delays into part of the entertainment.
Atmosphere and Reception
Fans described the energy as electric, with the crowd hyped throughout despite the wait. Reviews and social posts praised her performance prowess, humor, and ability to command the arena—turning it into a celebratory finale for a historic tour. It was a big party in Atlanta, fitting for the tour’s conclusion.
Overall, the Saturday night show encapsulated Cardi B’s “Little Miss Drama” persona: unapologetic, entertaining, and resilient. She powered through backstage tensions to give fans a memorable, high-octane send-off to an incredibly successful run.
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New York, NY — The Atlanta Hawks showed they belong in the playoffs, but the New York Knicks’ experience and home-court physicality proved too much in the opening game of their first-round series.
The Knicks took a 1-0 series lead with a 118-109 victory on Saturday night at Madison Square Garden.Atlanta led for much of the first half and stayed within striking distance until a decisive Knicks run in the third quarter.
Key Stats and Performances
Jalen Johnson delivered a stellar playoff debut for the Hawks, finishing with 28 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists. The All-Star forward was Atlanta’s clear best player, attacking the rim and creating for teammates all night.
- Nickeil Alexander-Walker: 21 points, including 5-of-9 from three
- Dyson Daniels: 14 points, 7 assists, strong perimeter defense
- Onyeka Okongwu: 12 points and 9 rebounds in 28 minutes
The Hawks shot 47% from the field and went 15-of-38 from three, but struggled with turnovers (17) and second-chance points, where New York held a 16-7 edge.
For the Knicks: - Jalen Brunson controlled the game with 32 points and 9 assists
- Karl-Anthony Towns added 24 points and 11 rebounds
- Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby provided elite wing defense and timely scoring
- Game 2: Monday, April 20 – Hawks @ Knicks, 8 p.m. ET (NBC/Peacock)
- Game 3: Thursday, April 23 – Knicks @ Hawks, 7 p.m. ET – First home game at State Farm Arena
Despite the loss, optimism remains high in Atlanta. This young, re-tooled Hawks squad has already exceeded expectations this season, and a competitive showing on the road in Game 1 suggests they can steal a game in New York.
Fan Reaction in Atlanta: Many supporters took to social media praising Johnson’s breakout performance while calling for tighter defense and fewer mistakes in Game 2.
The Hawks have 48 hours to make adjustments before Monday’s pivotal Game 2. A split in New York would swing momentum heavily in Atlanta’s favor heading back to State Farm Arena.
Stay with AtlantaFi.com for full player stats, video highlights, coach and player quotes, and complete series coverage.
What did you think of Jalen Johnson’s performance tonight? Can the Hawks even the series in Game 2? Drop your thoughts below.- The Best Sports Turnarounds in Atlanta History
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Get ready for the ultimate day of family fun in Duluth. Massive Monster Jam trucks and world champion drivers are taking over for a weekend packed with high-flying stunts, big air, and nonstop excitement.
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 2026 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 12 and 13, 2026, 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 12: 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM
- Sunday, September 13: 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM
Fans will be on the edge of their seats as top drivers, including Racing, 2 WheelSkills, and everyone’s favorite, Freestyle, 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.
Gravity-defying action, down-to-earth prices!
Tickets and Pit Party Passes are now available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com or in-person at the venue box office.
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.
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Every year on April 4 (4/04), Atlanta transforms into a citywide party honoring its iconic area code, 404—the original telephone code that has become a powerful symbol of local pride.
This year, 404 Day in Atlanta is packed with events, including a Big Boi concert.
404 Day in Atlanta: A Vibrant Celebration of Culture, Community
Known as 404 Day, this annual event blends music, food, art, parades, sports activations, and community giving into a dynamic showcase of what makes Atlanta unique: its creative energy, Southern hospitality blended with hip-hop innovation, and unbreakable sense of belonging.
The Origins and Meaning of 404 Day
The “404” in the date directly nods to Atlanta’s first and most famous area code, which covers the core of the city and has long represented home for locals (often called “Atliens”). What began as a smaller music-focused gathering has grown into a major cultural phenomenon.
One prominent celebration, the free 404 Day festival in Piedmont Park, traces its roots back around 15 years, evolving from an intimate show at spots like the Clermont Lounge to a large-scale outdoor event drawing thousands.
404 Day isn’t just a date on the calendar—it’s a love letter to Atlanta’s identity. The city boasts a rich tapestry of influences: trap and hip-hop that put it on the global map, diverse cuisine from soul food to international fusion, vibrant arts scenes, and a resilient community spirit.
Events highlight “Old Atlanta vs. New Atlanta,” bridging legacy sounds with emerging talent while celebrating the city’s evolution from its 1996 Olympics era to today’s cultural powerhouse.What Happens on 404 Day?
In 2026, with April 4 falling on a Saturday, the celebrations are expected to be especially lively, spilling across a full weekend (often called 404 Day Weekend or 404 Week) from roughly April 1–5.
Attendance has surpassed 100,000 participants in recent years, generating millions in economic impact and directing funds back into the community through scholarships and grants (over $215,000 awarded in recent cycles).
404 Day Events in Atlanta
Key highlights typically include:
- Piedmont Park Festival: A free, all-ages centerpiece with multiple music stages, dancing, local vendors, art installations, food trucks, and drinks. Expect live performances showcasing Atlanta’s hip-hop, R&B, and emerging sounds from noon to around 9 p.m. RSVPs are often encouraged for planning. eventbrite.com
- 404 Day Parade: A relatively newer tradition (second annual in 2026), marching down Peachtree Street in downtown Atlanta, featuring floats, performers, and community groups celebrating local pride.
- Block Parties and Food Festivals: Events like the 404 Day Block Party at Underground Atlanta, “404 Taste the Block” collaborations (e.g., with artists like Big Boi and brands focusing on throwback 2000s ATL vibes), and vendor activations offering everything from lemon pepper wings to plant-based innovations.
- Sports and Wellness Activations: The Atlanta Falcons host a free Fan Fest at Old Fourth Ward Skate Park on the Beltline, complete with pop-ups, custom 404 merchandise, and giveaways. A 404 Day 5K run starts from Underground Atlanta, combining fitness with cultural pride and supporting local causes like 100 Black Men of Atlanta.
- Gala and Giving Back: The 404 Fund Scholarship Gala brings together leaders, creatives, and changemakers for an evening of networking, music, and purpose-driven impact, often followed by afterparties.
- Citywide Takeover: Additional pop-ups include restaurant specials, Marta transit activations, indie festivals at venues like Wolf Creek Amphitheater, and parties at spots across the metro area. Everything from family-friendly daytime vibes to late-night celebrations keeps the energy going.
The vibe is inclusive and high-energy—think good music bumping, diverse crowds repping Atlanta gear (or even special “404 Day” sneaker drops inspired by the ’96 Olympics), and a collective sense of “we outside.”
Why 404 Day Matters
Beyond the parties, 404 Day fosters civic pride and real impact. It spotlights local businesses, artists, and nonprofits while investing in Atlanta’s future through education and community grants.
In a city known for its hustle—home to influential music, film, tech, and sports scenes—404 Day reminds residents and visitors alike why “the A” stands out: its people, creativity, and ability to turn a simple area code into a movement.
Whether you’re a lifelong Atlien, a transplant, or just visiting, 404 Day captures the essence of Atlanta—bold, welcoming, and always evolving. It’s less a single event and more a citywide affirmation: “This is us.”
If you’re in Atlanta on April 4, lace up your kicks (maybe those limited 404-themed Adidas), grab some local eats, and join the celebration. Free entry to many core events makes it accessible for everyone.
For the latest lineups, RSVPs, or specific event details, check official sites like 404day.com or local guides, as programming can shift slightly year to year.
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The James Beard Foundation on Tuesday announced its finalists for the 2026 Restaurant and Chef Awards, with two standout Atlanta establishments making the list.
The James Beard Awards rank among the highest honors in the American culinary world.
Two Atlanta Restaurants Named Finalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards
They recognize outstanding talent in food, hospitality, and the broader food system, while highlighting a strong commitment to equity, community, sustainability, and inclusive excellence.
This year, Atlanta’s finalists advanced from a group of 11 Georgia semifinalists announced in January.0
Aria – Outstanding Hospitality
For the second year in a row, Buckhead’s Aria has earned a finalist spot in the Outstanding Hospitality category. This award celebrates restaurants that create a warm, welcoming environment for both guests and staff while maintaining high standards in food, service, atmosphere, and operations. Aria shares the category with notable nominees from Boise, Birmingham, Clayton (Missouri), and Los Angeles.0
Mujō and Chef J. Trent Harris – Best Chef: Southeast
West Midtown’s Japanese-inspired restaurant Mujō earned recognition through its chef, J. Trent Harris, who is a finalist for Best Chef: Southeast. The category features talented chefs from across the region, including nominees from South Carolina, Kentucky, West Virginia, and North Carolina.0
Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation, celebrated the 2026 finalists in a press release marking the organization’s 40th anniversary: “As we mark 40 years… we’re reminded of just how vital it is to celebrate and champion the people driving American food culture forward.” She praised the honorees for their talent, leadership, and the powerful role food plays in our lives.0
The winners will be revealed at the James Beard Awards ceremony on June 15, 2026, in Chicago.
Congratulations to Aria, Mujō, and Chef J. Trent Harris for representing Atlanta on this prestigious national stage!
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 Atlanta Braves are wheeling and dealing after launching their own network. The Braves and FuboTV have reached a multi-year distribution agreement that will make BravesVision available to Fubo subscribers starting on the Braves’ Opening Day, Friday, March 27, 2026.
READ: How to watch the Braves game: Streaming, TV options
Under the deal, Braves games will be accessible to subscribers of Fubo’s base plan throughout the six-state Braves Country territory, which includes Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and western North Carolina.BravesVision, announced last month, will produce more than 140 games during the 2026 regular season, along with extensive pre-game and post-game programming.
The new pre-game show, “Braves On Deck,” and post-game show, “Braves Postgame,” will deliver news, analysis, and an inside look at the game-day experience at Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta.
To mark Opening Day, “Braves On Deck” will air at 6 p.m. ET, ahead of the Braves’ home opener against the Kansas City Royals.
“Fubo’s sports offering includes tens of thousands of live sporting events annually, with many streaming in 4K, and more regional sports networks in its base package at the lowest cost compared to other streaming options,” the release noted.
Fubo also carries extensive Major League Baseball coverage, including MLB.TV, MLB Network, MLB Strike Zone, regional sports and broadcast networks, local broadcast networks, and national sports networks ESPN and FS1.
In addition to its robust sports lineup, Fubo streams popular live entertainment and news programming and features more than 40,000 TV shows and movies on-demand each month.
The partnership marks another step in the evolving media landscape for regional sports content, as more fans turn to streaming platforms for live sports access.
Final Word
Braves fans in the designated territory will now have seamless access to the team’s dedicated channel without needing a traditional cable or satellite subscription.
Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
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Car enthusiasts, families, and community members are invited to rev up their Sunday with an afternoon dedicated to classic cars, custom builds, and good vibes.
The Classic Kingz Car Show is making a comeback at The Shoppes at Webb Gin on Sunday, May 17th, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Classic Kingz Car Show: A Day of Automotive Excitement
Hosted in partnership with Classic Car Kingz, the event will transform the parking lot next to Ted’s Montana Grill (1250 Scenic Hwy S, Lawrenceville, GA 30045) into a vibrant showcase of classic, custom, and specialty vehicles.
Attendees can expect a lively, family-friendly atmosphere complete with live music, local food vendors, and plenty of opportunities to admire impressive rides up close.
Admission is free for spectators, making it an accessible outing for everyone.
Car owners interested in displaying their vehicles can register for a $25 fee (cash only), with check-in starting at 10:00 AM. Standout entries will compete for trophy awards in various categories.
“We’re excited to bring the community together again for a day that celebrates car culture, creativity, and connection,” said David Parris, President of Classic Car Kingz. “This event continues to grow each year, and we’re looking forward to showcasing some incredible vehicles while creating a fun, high-energy experience for everyone who attends.”
The Classic Kingz Car Show has become a recurring favorite in the Gwinnett County area, drawing crowds with its welcoming vibe that appeals to hardcore gearheads and casual fans alike.
Whether you’re there to show off a prized classic, hunt for your next project, grab a bite from local vendors, or simply enjoy live music under the Georgia sun, the event promises something for all ages.
Mark your calendars and bring the whole family (and your camera) to The Shoppes at Webb Gin on May 17th for a memorable day of chrome, horsepower, and community spirit.
For the latest updates, check the Classic Car Kingz social media pages or the shopping center’s event listings.
Final Word
As the city lights up with yet another special event this weekend, remember: Safe driving is the real treat. For more tips on navigating safely around the city, read our Atlanta Traffic Guide.
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A federal judge has dismissed an unauthorized bankruptcy petition filed by Fawn Weaver, the founder and sidelined CEO of Uncle Nearest, the Tennessee-based whiskey brand she launched in 2017.
On March 19, 2026, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Suzanne Bauknight ruled from the bench in Knoxville that Weaver lacked the authority to submit Chapter 11 filings on behalf of Uncle Nearest and its related entities (including Nearest Green Distillery and Uncle Nearest Real Estate Holdings).
Judge Rejects Uncle Nearest Bankruptcy Filing
The company has been under court-appointed receivership since last year, with receiver Phillip Young holding exclusive control while a major debt lawsuit proceeds.
The receivership stems from a lawsuit by primary lender Farm Credit Mid-America, which claims Uncle Nearest owes more than $100 million (approximately $99 million in unsecured debt per Young’s reports).
Judge Charles Atchley’s order limited Weaver’s role to marketing and managing the Uncle Nearest brand—actions that did not include filing for bankruptcy without Young’s permission or board approval (the board having been dissolved under the receivership).
Bauknight emphasized that Tennessee law also prohibits corporations from filing bankruptcy without board authorization, which was impossible here. She described the filing as outside the scope of Weaver’s permitted duties, effectively violating the district court’s receivership order.
Weaver’s petition, filed earlier in the week, listed about $13.4 million in unsecured debt across 264 creditors—a figure significantly lower than the debt reported under the receivership.
Her attorney argued the move aimed to stabilize the company’s value and sales, while Young’s counsel called it a “Hail Mary” attempt to circumvent the receivership and regain control.
Following the ruling, attorneys for both sides declined to comment. Young’s team has sought sanctions against Weaver, requesting $75,000 for the alleged violation of court orders.
Separately, Weaver filed a lawsuit against Farm Credit Mid-America in New York on March 13, accusing the lender of defamation and other wrongdoing. The suit disputes several claims by Farm Credit, including:
- Alleged commingling of $20 million through transfers with Grant Sidney (Weaver asserts this was a properly documented, legitimate loan).
- Claims that roughly $21 million in whiskey barrels went missing (Weaver says inventory and warehouse records confirm the barrels remained in storage).
- Accusations that loan funds were misused to purchase a Martha’s Vineyard home (Weaver states Farm Credit was aware of the property purchase).
One of Weaver’s attorneys described the defamation claims as needing accountability when contradicted by records already held by the lender.
The receivership remains in place under Phillip Young, with the bankruptcy attempt blocked and legal battles ongoing between Weaver, the company, and its major creditor.
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Buckhead’s favorite month-long walking adventure is back! buckheadWALKS! returns from April 1 to April 30, 2026, inviting residents, employees, and fitness enthusiasts across the neighborhood to lace up their shoes and get moving.
This free challenge, organized by Livable Buckhead, transforms everyday steps into an exciting competition for prizes. It’s one of many great activities to do in Buckhead.
buckheadWALKS Returns for Spring Activities
Participants can track their steps individually or form teams to climb the leaderboard using the Wellable platform.
Beyond daily walking, earn extra points by joining weekly activities such as scavenger hunts, guided walking tours, Thursday lunchtime strolls, and special experiences like bridge tours on the newest sections of PATH400.
“These events are a great opportunity for people to enjoy our incredible greenspaces, connect with neighbors and embrace a more active lifestyle,” said Denise Starling, executive director of Livable Buckhead. “This year’s Social Ride is particularly exciting since it will give everyone a firsthand look at the beautiful new section of PATH400.”
While buckheadWALKS! focuses on foot-powered exploration, the broader Livable Buckhead programming—including the popular Social Ride on PATH400—highlights the area’s growing network of trails and bike paths. (The Social Ride itself is scheduled separately, with a recent event held in late March 2026.)
Prizes up for grabs include a luxurious two-night stay at the Nobu Hotel or InterContinental Buckhead, gift cards to favorite local restaurants, and additional rewards to celebrate your commitment to health and community.
Now in its 9th year, buckheadWALKS! continues to promote wellness by encouraging participants to discover Buckhead’s parks, pathways, and neighborhoods while building healthier habits and stronger connections.
The program is sponsored by Tre Vele, Nobu Atlanta, Buckhead Theater, Lenox Mall, and Zakia.
Ready to join? Register now through the Wellable app via Livable Buckhead’s website at livablebuckhead.com/walk. Whether you’re walking solo, with coworkers, or rallying your family, every step counts toward a more activities to do in Buckhead!
When you’re done eating, if you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.
