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As the second weekend of July 2026 arrives, Atlanta is gearing up for one of its sweetest annual traditions: PeachFest 2026, one of the best Atlanta festivals you can attend.
Now in its 12th year, the city’s signature summer tasting event transforms downtown into a vibrant homage to Georgia peaches on Sunday, July 12. This year, it moves to the historic Underground Atlanta (50 Upper Alabama St. SW), promising an immersive, all-inclusive culinary experience unlike any before.
What to Expect at PeachFest 2026
PeachFest isn’t your average food festival. Attendees will stroll through a live peach orchard—courtesy of Pearson Farm, which is trucking in fruit-bearing trees from Fort Valley, Georgia, right inside Underground Atlanta. Read why Georgia is called the Peach State.
The venue will feature over 50 celebrated chefs and bartenders serving peach-forward dishes and cocktails, from savory creations like peach pasta to sweet treats and innovative pies. Expect live fire cooking, pop-ups, and the buzz of Atlanta’s top culinary talent.
Highlights include:
- The Peach Pit Invitational: 20 of Atlanta’s best bartenders compete for a $1,000 cash prize with original peach cocktails made using Pearson Farm peaches (no added sugar). Guests get to sip every entry and weigh in, with celebrity judges crowning the winner. Presented by Código 1530 Tequila.
- Fireside Chats: Intimate conversations on Georgia peach farming (30 seasons with Pearson Farm), “The New South” in Atlanta’s culinary scene with Christan Willis, and a live chef demo/book signing with Monti Carlo, Hector Santiago, and Julio Delgado of Spanglish Cocina (making its Atlanta debut).
- Live Music, Photo Ops, and More: All-inclusive tastings, craft pours, and a community vibe with no stages or barriers—everyone mingles among the chefs.
The event runs from 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM (VIP early entry at 3 PM). It aligns perfectly with heightened downtown energy during World Cup week, offering a chance to explore Underground Atlanta’s revitalized spaces.
Ticket Options and Details
- VIP Access ($130): Early entry at 3 PM, first dibs on stations, plus exclusive perks like photo ops and priority access.
- General Admission ($95): Doors open at 4 PM; full access to all tastings, cocktails, chats, and the orchard.
Tickets are available at peachfest.org. Supplies are limited, especially for VIP, so grab yours soon.
A Festival with Heart
Beyond the bites, PeachFest supports local agriculture and gives back. A silent auction benefits CURE Childhood Cancer (Atlanta-founded research organization) and Piggy Bank’s Farm (disaster relief and seed support for Southern farmers). It’s a delicious way to celebrate sustainability, community, and Georgia’s peach heritage.
Whether you’re a foodie hunting for the next big flavor, a cocktail enthusiast ready to judge the best peach sip in town, or just looking for a fun summer afternoon with friends, PeachFest 2026 delivers. Atlanta’s downtown will smell like ripe peaches, and the energy will be electric.
Mark your calendar: Sunday, July 12, at Underground Atlanta. Bring your appetite—and maybe a designated driver for all those peach cocktails. Follow @atlpeachfest on Instagram for updates, chef announcements, and more.
This is one peach of an event you won’t want to miss.
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HART COUNTY, Ga. — A northeast Georgia traffic stop has led to the arrest of Atlanta-area resident and wife of radio personality Big Tigger, Alicia Brown, on serious out-of-state charges connected to the 2019 disappearance of her daughter.
According to the Hart County Sheriff’s Office, deputies pulled over Brown on Interstate 85 Tuesday and took her into custody on outstanding Maryland kidnapping warrants. Authorities say the warrants stem from the disappearance of her daughter several years ago.
Big Tigger’s Wife Arrested on Maryland Kidnapping Warrants
Brown also faces a new felony charge of interference with child custody in Georgia. Officials indicate she is expected to be extradited to Maryland to face the original warrants.
The Hart County Sheriff’s Office has released her mugshot.
The arrest comes amid heightened public attention surrounding Brown’s personal life. Leaked videos circulating online appear to show a physical altercation between Brown and her estranged partner, Atlanta radio personality Big Tigger (Darian Morgan), involving a dispute over his phone during their ongoing separation.
Big Tigger, a longtime figure in Atlanta’s entertainment and media scene known for his work on V-103 and other platforms, has not publicly commented on the leaked footage or the arrest as of Wednesday morning.
Background on the Maryland Case
Maryland authorities have sought Brown in connection with her daughter’s 2019 disappearance. Details of the original case remain limited in Georgia records, but the active kidnapping warrants prompted the multi-state effort that ended in her detention on I-85 in Hart County, roughly 90 minutes northeast of Atlanta.
Hart County Sheriff’s Office deputies acted swiftly once the outstanding warrants were confirmed during the routine traffic stop. Brown was processed locally before being held pending extradition proceedings.
Local Ties Draw Attention
The case has drawn significant interest in Atlanta due to Brown’s connection to Big Tigger, a familiar voice to many in the city’s radio audience. The timing of the arrest with the emergence of the alleged altercation videos has fueled social media discussion, though law enforcement has not linked the two matters directly.
No additional charges related to the videos have been announced. Hart County officials say their role was limited to the traffic stop and warrant service.
This story is developing. Atlanta News will continue to follow the extradition process and any updates from Maryland authorities regarding the 2019 disappearance case.
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ATLANTA — Soccer excitement is building across the city as Egypt’s national team, the Pharaohs, has officially secured a spot in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup — and they’re coming to Atlanta.
In a post shared today by the official FIFA World Cup 26 Atlanta account, organizers announced that Egypt will play its Round of 16 match on Tuesday, July 7, inside Atlanta Stadium (Mercedes-Benz Stadium).
Egypt’s Pharaohs Advance to FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, Heading to Atlanta Stadium on July 7
The Pharaohs will face either Argentina or Cape Verde, depending on the outcome of that matchup earlier in the day. Want to view the match on a big screen? Read our comprehensive Atlanta FIFA World Cup Watch Party Guide.
What This Means for Atlanta Fans
This marks a major moment for Atlanta as one of the tournament’s host cities. The July 7 clash is one of three Round of 16 matches scheduled at Atlanta Stadium, and it features high-profile talent, including Egyptian star Mohamed Salah.
Egypt advanced after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Australia in the Round of 32 earlier today. Here’s how the USMNT can make it to the World Cup final.
The result sends the North African side into the knockout rounds for what many consider a historic run.
The Path Ahead
- July 7, 2026 — Round of 16: Egypt vs. Winner of Argentina vs. Cape Verde
Atlanta Stadium | 12:00 p.m. ET
The winner of that match will advance to the quarterfinals, with Atlanta already locked in to host additional high-stakes games later in the tournament, including a semifinal on July 15.
FIFA Fever Has Atlanta Buzzing
Atlanta soccer fans and the broader community are already buzzing about the prospect of hosting one of the world’s most passionate national teams. Egypt brings a large and vocal fanbase, and the match is expected to draw significant international attention and tourism to the city.
Organizers and local officials have been preparing for months for the influx of visitors during the World Cup. With Egypt now confirmed for Atlanta, that preparation just got a major boost.Stay tuned to Atlanta’s local coverage for ticket information, fan zones, watch parties, and all the latest updates as the world’s biggest sporting event continues right here in the A.
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- July 7, 2026 — Round of 16: Egypt vs. Winner of Argentina vs. Cape Verde
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Peachtree Corners, GA — Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, the nationally acclaimed brand that began as a single scoop truck in New York City in 2008, is set to open its second Atlanta-area shop on Thursday, July 2.
The new location will occupy space at The Forum, 5143 Peachtree Parkway NW, on the north end of the property next to Politan Row and across from DSW.
Van Leeuwen To Open in Peachtree Corners
Known for its commitment to high-quality, thoughtfully sourced ingredients, Van Leeuwen has built a devoted following for both its classic dairy ice creams and innovative vegan options. The brand highlights premium elements such as pistachios from Bronte, Sicily, hazelnuts from Piedmont, and sun-ripened strawberries from Oregon.
“We’re so excited to be opening at The Forum and continuing to grow in Atlanta,” said Ben Van Leeuwen, co-founder and CEO. “We’ve always believed that great ice cream starts with great ingredients… That’s how we’ve made ice cream since we started with one scoop truck in New York City in 2008, and we can’t wait to share it with even more people here.”
The expansion reflects the brand’s continued momentum in the Southeast. Jamestown, the owner of The Forum, expressed enthusiasm about adding Van Leeuwen to its roster of dining and retail experiences.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Van Leeuwen’s second Georgia scoop shop to The Forum and continue expanding the property’s lineup of sought-after brands and dining experiences,” said Adam Schwegman, head of retail leasing at Jamestown. “The Van Leeuwen team has built a loyal following and we can’t wait for the Peachtree Corners community to experience their premium product.”
Grand Opening Celebration
To mark the occasion, Van Leeuwen will offer $1 scoops from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 2. The first 100 guests will also receive a limited-edition Van Leeuwen tote bag.
The new Peachtree Corners shop joins Van Leeuwen’s existing Atlanta-area location in Ponce City Market, further strengthening the brand’s presence in Georgia. With its focus on quality ingredients and inclusive offerings, the ice cream maker continues to appeal to both longtime fans and new customers seeking elevated frozen treats.
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ATLANTA — The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially arrived in the heart of the city, and today marks a historic day as Mercedes-Benz Stadium hosts its first knockout-stage match: England versus DR Congo in the Round of 32.
Kickoff is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. ET in what promises to be an electric atmosphere under the retractable roof. For Atlanta soccer fans, this is the moment the tournament truly comes alive locally — a clash between one of football’s traditional powerhouses and a spirited underdog making its knockout debut.
The Teams: Favorites vs. History-Makers
England, the Three Lions, enter as heavy favorites. Managed by Thomas Tuchel, they advanced comfortably from their group and boast a squad packed with Premier League stars including Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Phil Foden. England will be looking to put on a statement performance in Atlanta and avoid any upset jitters on American soil.
DR Congo (also referred to as Congo DR or the Leopards), on the other hand, are writing a fairy-tale story. In only their second World Cup appearance, they clinched a spot in the knockout rounds as one of the best third-place teams from Group K. Reaching this stage is already a massive achievement for the Central African nation, and they’ll be playing with house money against a much higher-ranked opponent.
Betting odds reflect the gap — England are around -335 favorites, while a DR Congo victory sits as a long shot at +1329 — but World Cup knockouts are famous for surprises.
Local Buzz and Fan Fest Vibes
Atlanta Stadium, which has already welcomed group-stage action including DR Congo’s match against Uzbekistan, is expected to be near capacity. Atlanta’s large international community, including strong African and European diaspora populations, should create a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere.
Centennial Park’s Fan Festival will be buzzing pre- and post-match with live entertainment, cultural exhibits, and big-screen viewing for those without tickets. City officials and local businesses have rolled out the red carpet, with special World Cup menus, transit boosts on MARTA, and heightened security around the stadium.
“This is what we envisioned when Atlanta was selected as a host city,” said one local organizer. “Today, the world is watching our stadium and our city.”
What to Watch For
- England’s Attack: Can Kane and company break down DR Congo’s defense early?
- DR Congo’s Counter: The Leopards have shown resilience and pace on the break — a dangerous weapon in knockout football.
- Tactical Battle: Tuchel’s pragmatic style versus DR Congo’s likely parked-bus approach and opportunistic play.
- Atlanta Factor: The heat and humidity outside (even with the roof) could play a role if the game goes to extra time.
How to Watch Locally:
- Broadcast: Available on major networks and streaming platforms (check local listings).
- Stadium: Tickets remain available through official FIFA resale channels, though prices are premium for this marquee matchup.
Win or lose, DR Congo has already captured hearts, while England knows a slip-up could end their tournament dreams early. For Atlanta, it’s simply another unforgettable chapter in our World Cup hosting story.
Come on, Atlanta — let’s make some noise!
Stay with Atlanta Sports Wire for live updates, post-match reaction, and more from Mercedes-Benz Stadium throughout the day.
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ATLANTA, Ga. — A innovative new grocery concept has arrived in one of Atlanta’s historic neighborhoods, promising greater access to fresh food and everyday essentials around the clock.
Nourish + Bloom Market officially opened its latest location at Pittsburgh Yards, a 31-acre community development in Atlanta’s Pittsburgh neighborhood. The store, housed in a shipping container within the development’s Container Courtyard, is described as the nation’s first container-built, 24/7 AI-powered, zero-checkout grocery store.
New 24/7 AI-Powered Nourish + Bloom Market Opens in Atlanta’s Pittsburgh Yards, Tackling Food Desert Challenges
The opening addresses a longstanding issue for the area, which has long been considered a food desert.
Last year Goodr opened a brick-and-mortar location to serve areas that don’t have traditional food resources. A municipal grocery initiative called Azalea Fresh Market opened last fall to address a gap in grocery stores in downtown Atlanta. Another location is in the works.
Local families previously often had to leave their neighborhood to purchase groceries. The new market aims to change that by offering convenient, healthy options close to home at any hour.
Nourish + Bloom: Innovative Shopping Experience
Nourish + Bloom Market combines technology with community-focused retail. Customers can shop for produce, prepared meals, personal care items, and other essentials using an AI-powered system that enables a seamless, zero-checkout experience. The container-based design also highlights sustainable and adaptable retail solutions suitable for urban environments.
The Pittsburgh Yards location builds on the company’s earlier success, including its flagship market in Fayetteville and another in Atlanta’s Cascade area. Founders Jamie and Jilea Hemmings launched the venture to combat food insecurity while supporting local economies.
“Produce to prepared meals to personal care,” Jilea Hemmings said, describing the range of offerings available to shoppers.
Nourish + Bloom‘s Strong Community and Business Support
The project received significant backing through a small business contest with AT&T and support from city leadership. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Councilman Antonio Lewis joined the founders and AT&T representatives for the grand opening celebration.
“For far too long, families in this community had to leave their own neighborhood to buy groceries,” Mayor Dickens stated during the event, emphasizing the market’s role in improving quality of life in Southwest Atlanta.
The initiative aligns with broader city efforts to expand food access and economic opportunity in underserved areas. Pittsburgh Yards itself serves as a hub for Black-owned businesses and community development, with the new market acting as a daily anchor resource for residents.
Nourish + Bloom: A Model for the Future
Nourish + Bloom Market represents a blend of innovation, entrepreneurship, and public-private partnership. By operating 24/7/365, it provides flexibility for working families, shift workers, and anyone needing convenient access outside traditional retail hours.
As Atlanta continues to grow and address equity challenges, projects like this demonstrate how technology and targeted investment can deliver tangible benefits to neighborhoods. The Hemmings and their partners hope the model can be replicated in other food-insecure communities across Georgia and beyond.
The Pittsburgh Yards location of Nourish + Bloom Market is now open to serve the community with fresh groceries and essentials — anytime, day or night.
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Buc-ee’s, the Texas-based chain famous for its massive travel centers, clean restrooms, fresh kolaches, Beaver Nuggets, and legions of devoted fans, continues its aggressive eastward push. While the brand remains heavily concentrated in Texas (with dozens of locations), it has steadily built a presence across the Southeast since its first out-of-state store opened in Alabama in 2019.
As of mid-2026, Buc-ee’s operates in roughly a dozen states total, with a strong footprint in the Southeast including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
Buc-ee’s Expansion Plans in the Southeast: Bringing Texas-Sized Stops to Southern Highways
The company’s strategy focuses on prime interstate locations, typically featuring 70,000+ square-foot stores, 100–120+ fueling positions, extensive foodservice (including in-house smoked meats), merchandise, and EV charging. Expansion in the Southeast targets high-traffic corridors like I-95, I-75, I-10, I-20, and I-40, serving travelers, locals, and tourists alike.
Current Southeast Presence
- Alabama: Multiple locations, including Athens, Auburn, Leeds, and Loxley. These have helped establish the brand east of Texas.
- Florida: Stores in St. Augustine and Daytona Beach, with more on the way.
- Georgia: Locations in Warner Robins (near Macon), Adairsville/Calhoun area, and the newer Brunswick store (opened 2025) on the I-95 corridor.
- South Carolina: Florence location on I-95.
- Tennessee: Stores in Crossville and Sevierville/Kodak areas, with additional growth near Nashville and Memphis.
- Mississippi and Virginia: Recent first stores (2025 openings in Harrison County, MS, and Rockingham County, VA) extend the network.
Key Upcoming Southeast Projects
Buc-ee’s has dozens of planned or under-construction sites nationwide, with several high-profile ones in the Southeast slated for 2026–2028 and beyond:
- Florida: Significant growth expected. Fort Pierce (St. Lucie County) on I-95 is targeted for 2027; Tallahassee (Leon County) area on I-10 for mid-2027; Ocala (Marion County) on I-75 pushed to 2028. Additional sites like Port Charlotte are in earlier planning.
- Georgia: Fourth location in Monroe County (Forsyth area, I-75) expected in 2027.
- Tennessee: Murfreesboro (near Nashville, I-24) anticipated in 2026; Gallaway (Fayette County, near Memphis) in 2027.
- North Carolina: First store in Mebane (Alamance County, I-40/I-85 corridor between Greensboro and Durham/Raleigh) with groundbreaking completed and opening targeted for late 2027. This marks a major step into a new Southeastern state.
- South Carolina: Second location in Hardeeville (near I-95, Lowcountry, close to Savannah) planned for around 2031 as part of a mixed-use development.
- Louisiana (adjacent Southeast influence): First stores in Ruston (early 2027) and Lafayette (mid-2027) will support travel along I-20 and I-10.
Other mentions include potential or longer-term sites in areas like Anderson, SC, and additional Florida spots.
Broader Context and Outlook
Buc-ee’s is entering or deepening its presence in multiple new states overall (including Arizona, Arkansas, Kansas, Ohio, Wisconsin, and North Carolina) through 2027, with 15+ new locations expected by around 2031.
In the Southeast, this builds on proven success in states like Alabama and Georgia, where stores have drawn huge crowds and boosted local economies through jobs and tourism.
Challenges include local zoning battles, infrastructure needs (e.g., highway interchanges), and scaling the “Texas-sized” model to new markets. However, the brand’s reputation for exceptional cleanliness, variety, and customer experience has generally led to strong openings.
For road trippers, this expansion means fewer miles between legendary pit stops on Southeastern interstates. Whether grabbing brisket, filling up on ethanol-free fuel, or just using those famously pristine restrooms, Buc-ee’s is making long drives more bearable—and more delicious—across the region.
Expect more announcements as the company refines its pipeline. Fans can check Buc-ee’s official site or trackers like RoadtripBeaver for the latest updates. The beaver is on the move, and the Southeast is getting a bigger slice of the action.
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Atlanta, GA – A beloved staple of Atlanta’s nightlife scene is saying goodbye to its longtime home. Joystick Gamebar, the self-described “nerdy dive bar” known for classic arcade games, pinball machines, craft cocktails, and smash burgers, will close its doors at 427 Edgewood Ave. SE on Sunday, July 12.
The announcement comes after nearly 14 years of operation on the historic Edgewood Avenue corridor. Co-owner Johnny shared an emotional message with the community on social media, expressing gratitude for the support the venue has received over the years.
Joystick Gamebar Closing Down
“Personally, I love this street,” Johnny wrote. “It has an energy that’s hard to find anywhere else in Atlanta. I’ve met so many incredible people because of it, and it’s honestly hard to imagine saying goodbye.”
He thanked bartenders, door staff, DJs, comics, hosts, vendors, artists, bands, neighbors, and loyal regulars who helped make Joystick a go-to spot for gamers, locals, and visitors alike.
Read our guide on Atlanta restaurants that have closed.
What’s Next for Joystick?
The business is relocating and plans to reopen at a new location in the coming weeks. Owners have not yet revealed the exact address but say details will be shared soon. Some local speculation on social media points to a possible move to East Atlanta Village (EAV), though nothing has been officially confirmed.
Joystick Gamebar has long stood out as a unique hybrid venue — part retro arcade, part cocktail lounge, and part community gathering spot. Patrons could enjoy free or low-cost classic games alongside a full bar, tabletop gaming, live music, comedy nights, and events that drew a diverse crowd of “all nerdoms,” as the bar often put it.
Joystick Gamebar Closing: Community Reaction
The news has prompted an outpouring of memories from Atlanta residents who frequented the spot for first dates, game nights, birthdays, and casual hangouts. Many are planning to stop by in the final days to pay their respects and enjoy one last round of Ms. Pac-Man or a signature burger before the Edgewood chapter closes.
Joystick Gamebar will remain open through July 12 with regular hours. Fans are encouraged to follow the bar’s social media channels for updates on the final week of service and the announcement of the new location.
As one chapter ends on Edgewood, Atlanta’s gaming and nightlife community looks forward to where this “weird little nerd bar” will pop up next.
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ATLANTA — Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) officials announced Friday that the agency has moved approximately 1.7 million riders since June 11 to support four FIFA World Cup 2026 matches at Atlanta Stadium (Mercedes-Benz Stadium) and numerous related festivities, including nine FIFA Fan Festivals.
The figures highlight the critical role public transit has played in accommodating the massive influx of visitors during the tournament’s early weeks in Atlanta, one of the key U.S. host cities.
FIFA World Cup sees MARTA Record Ridership
The busiest single day occurred on Wednesday, June 24, during the Morocco vs. Haiti group stage match. MARTA recorded about 220,000 rail customers that day — roughly 2.3 times the number of riders on a typical weekday.
For context, MARTA typically sees around 95,000 to 205,000 daily rail riders on weekdays outside of major events.
Read our guide to riding MARTA.
“MARTA has transported approximately 1.7 million people to four World Cup matches, nine FIFA Fan Festivals, and events across the region,” the agency posted on X. Officials also noted that MARTA Transit Ambassadors have completed nearly 4,000 shifts, while hundreds of MARTA Police officers — supported by personnel from other agencies — have maintained increased patrols.
Atlanta has hosted several early group stage matches, including Spain vs. Cabo Verde (June 15), Czechia vs. South Africa (June 18), Spain vs. Saudi Arabia (June 21), and Morocco vs. Haiti (June 24). atlantafwc26.com +1The Morocco-Haiti contest drew particularly strong crowds, with fans packing trains and stations near the stadium. Pre-event planning emphasized “Let MARTA Drive” campaigns and expanded service to ease road congestion around Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
MARTA activated enhanced operations for the tournament, including more frequent trains, additional staffing, and shuttle services. The agency has encouraged fans to use transit to avoid traffic snarls, a strategy that appears to have paid dividends given the ridership numbers.
More World Cup action is on the horizon in Atlanta, with additional group stage matches and later knockout rounds scheduled through July.
Transit advocates and city officials view the strong early performance as a positive sign for MARTA’s ability to handle large-scale events, though some riders had raised pre-tournament concerns about capacity and safety.
MARTA continues to urge attendees to plan trips in advance via its app and website as the tournament progresses.
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Hot and humid temperatures are here in Georgia, and that means it’s the right time to plant a garden in Atlanta and others parts of the Peach State.
Not only is it a very sustainable decision, but it’s a great idea when it comes to feeding your family.
In this article, we’ll tell you the best fruits and vegetables you can grow in Atlanta as well as the best times to grow them and other things about planting.
Here’s a table of fruits and vegetables that grow well in Georgia, based on the state’s climate and agricultural data:
Fruits and Edibles in June–July
This is peak summer harvest and growing season for many crops:
• Fruits: Georgia peaches are in season (starting early June, peaking in July). Other options include blueberries (earlier but can linger), blackberries, figs, muscadines, and watermelons/cantaloupes. Tomatoes peak in July-August.
• Vegetables: Spring-planted crops like beans, squash, cucumbers, okra, corn, and tomatoes are harvested in June–July. You can still plant heat-tolerant items like okra, Southern peas, sweet potatoes, Malabar spinach, Swiss chard, and Armenian cucumbers in June/early July for later harvests.
• Tips: Regular harvesting prolongs production. Mulch to retain moisture, water consistently (especially during dry spells), and manage pests/diseases common in humid heat. Fall planting starts mid-to-late July for some crops.
Overall, June–July is one of the most productive times for home gardens and local farms in the Atlanta area.
What Fruits and Vegetables Grow in Georgia?
Fruit or Vegetable Best in Full Sun or Partial Shade Best Time to Plant Apples Full Sun Late Winter (Feb-Mar) Peaches Full Sun Late Winter (Feb-Mar) Blueberries Full Sun Fall or Early Spring (Oct-Mar) Strawberries Full Sun Fall (Sep-Oct) Watermelons Full Sun Spring (Apr-May) Tomatoes Full Sun Spring (Mar-May) Cucumbers Full Sun Spring (Apr-May) Sweet Potatoes Full Sun Spring (May-Jun) Okra Full Sun Late Spring (May-Jun) Collard Greens Full Sun or Partial Shade Squash Full Sun Spring (Apr-May) Peppers Full Sun Spring (Apr-May) Eggplant Full Sun Spring (Apr-May) Blackberries Full Sun Late Winter (Feb-Mar) Muscadine Grapes Full Sun Late Winter (Feb-Mar) Notes:
- Full Sun: Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Partial Shade: Needs 4-6 hours of sunlight or dappled light.
- Planting times are based on Georgia’s USDA Hardiness Zones (7-9) and typical frost dates (last frost around mid-April, first frost mid-October).
What Vegetables Grow In Spring In Georgia?
In the springtime is the best season for planting and growing crops in northwest Georgia. The weather is mild enough to support substantial growth and the wet season of May makes for ample blossoming to occur.
Around March is a good time to plant your beans, no matter if they’re of the lima, pole or snap variety. It’s also a great time to plant corn, but be cognizant of where you put it because it could shade over plants as it grows taller and taller.
You can also plant your peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplant, okra and squash. Your melons such as canteloupe and watermelon will benefit by an early spring planting as well.
After the first planting, you should lay out a second round of seeds two to three weeks later.
What Vegetables Grow In Winter In Georgia?
In the winter, Georgia farmers can really continue their harvests if they plant turnips, which thrive in the colder months.
Leafy greens like collards, kale and mustards all take around a month to six weeks to mature, which could take you into March in most cases.
Also, vegetables with long growth periods under the earth include carrots, broccoli, lettuce, radishes spinach and arugula.
Here Are All The Fruits & Vegetables You Can Grow In Atlanta
Growing your own food has long been a Southern tradition, but it has taken on special significance with the coronavirus pandemic.
A lot of people think Georgia is just known for its peaches (Peach State, I get it), but the fact is that apples, watermelons, peanuts and many other fruits and vegetables are major crops here.
Let’s look at some of the many fruits and vegetables you can grow in Georgia.
View this post on InstagramGeorgia-Grown Fruits And Vegetables
- Apples
- Basil
- Beets
- Blackberries
- Blueberries
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cantaloupes
- Carrots
- Collards
- Cucumbers
- Eggplant
- Field Peas
- Greens
- Irish Potatoes
- Lettuce
- Lima Beans
- Muscadine Grapes
- Mushrooms
- Okra
- Peaches
- Peanuts
- Pears
- Pecans
- Peppers
- Persimmons
- Pumpkins
- Squash
- Strawberries
- Sweet Corn
- Sweet Potatoes
- Tomatoes
- Vidalia Onions
- Watermelons
- Wheat
What Fruits Are Native To Georgia?
View this post on Instagram
When it comes to fruit, Atlanta is an inhospitable place to grow citrus such as oranges, plums and mangoes. Bananas are possible, but they’ll typically grow on the small side.Some fruits have been imported from elsewhere and have literally taken root in Georgia. But there are also some fruits that have always been here.
Here are some fruits that grow well in Atlanta and other parts of Georgia:
Georgia’s Grapes (Muscadines)
Georgia’s grape industry is focused on the muscadine, which is a South America-native fruit with a think purplish skin and musky flavor.
Muscadines are high in antioxidants and fiber. These grapes are easy to grow in Georgia as well.
Crab Apples
Georgia is well known for its crab apples, which grow well in Atlanta. Crab apple trees can be planted in spring, summer and fall as long as they get plenty of sunlight.
You should water them generously in the first month or so, allowing the roots to spread in the Georgia clay.
Pears
The most popular pears to grow in Georgia are the Bartlett and Anjou, which are European varieties. Although you can grow pears in metro Atlanta, a prevalent bacterial fungus makes it difficult to do so commercially, although there are exceptions.
Pears
The peach is Georgia’s state fruit, but it hasn’t always been. Georgia experienced a bad cotton crop sometime after 1920 and switched its focus to producing peaches, even adopting the moniker “The Peach State” for marketing purposes.
It’s true, that peaches grow well in Georgia, but they are only typically available here from mid-May to early August. After that, peaches are imported from other parts of the world.
Final Words
Atlanta and other parts of northwest Georgia has some very fertile soil for growing fruits and vegetables. All it takes is some time and effort on your part.
If you prefer to buy your own fruits and vegetables, here’s where the local farmer’s markets are in Atlanta.
Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest information from the Peach State’s capital city.
If you’re in the market for a nice plot of land, you’re making a wise decision. Real estate prices in rural areas are going up, but are still affordable. Here’s how to buy land in Georgia.
