Spring time in Atlanta, GA proves to be a very busy time for the city. Many festivals and events start to take place for the locals and tourists. One such festival that has been going on for years is the Annual Atlanta Dogwood Festival which is hosted in Atlanta’s beautiful Piedmont Park. This year the event will take place on April 16, 17 and 18. Attendees will be able to enjoy fine art, live entertainment of different kinds ranging from music to comedy. There will also be a variety of food offerings all over the festival for visitors to try and buy.

This year at this 74^th Annual Dogwood festival there will be great new features like the International Stage, Friday Night Comedy Show and Friends of Dogwood Pavilion. Although, this is the city’s oldest festival every year they make it seem just as spectacular and new. Because the Dogwood Festival has become a major event in the Atlanta area, it was honored with a variety of awards including Reader’s Pick award for Best Annual Event (Creative Loafing), Readers Pick for Favorite Festival (Atlanta Magazine), Best Annual Event (Georgia Magazine) and a Silver Award for Best Community Outreach Program for the International Stage from the International Festivals and Events Association’s Pinnacle Awards.

Here are some things you are expect from this years festival:

Arts: The 2010 Atlanta Dogwood Festival Artist Market participants have been selected from the largest number of exhibitor applications in Dogwood history. The Artist Market welcomes fine artists from throughout the country and will include a special section featuring Georgia artists.

Global: Visit the exciting performances on the International Stage. Visit the International Village and get a picture next to a favorite foreign holiday destination without even having to leave town. There will be golf carts representing different destinations decorated by a local international organization or consulate to bring the world to Atlanta!

Spectators: The Main Stage at the 2010 festival will include performers from a variety of musical genres. Dogwood attendees can also enjoy the popular live dog show on the lawn or hit the Friday Night Comedy show at the Lake Clara Meer stage.

Foodies: The “Friends of Dogwood Pavilion,” a ticketed event that has become a popular feature of the Dogwood Festival, will be open Saturday and Sunday. The Pavilion pairs fare from top local restaurants with wines and beers to show the upscale side of the city’s longest-running outdoor festival. Tickets to Friends of Dogwood can be purchased in advance at www.dogwood.org or at the door.

Kids: Designed just for the younger festival visitors, the Kid’s Village has become a Dogwood favorite for families. This interactive zone comes complete with hands-on art projects, special kid-friendly displays and hours of entertainment for children. Spider Jump, anyone?

Contacts:
Atlanta Dogwood Festival
404-817-6642
www.dogwood.org
info@launchatlanta.com

Date & Time:
April 16 – Friday 12:00 – 9:00 PM
April 17 -Saturday 10:00 AM – 9 PM
April 18 -Sunday 10:00 AM – 5 PM

Location:
Piedmont Park
400 Park Drive NE
Atlanta

Traditional Irish Session at Fado Irish Pub

Monday the 15^th

Just in time for St. Patrick’s’ Day yet a regular Monday night event in Atlanta, this is a get together of Atlanta’s finest Irish musicians for great music and a chance to dance. New musicians are welcome and new guests are, too.  It all starts at 8pm and you can get info at www.fadoirishpub.com.

George Thorogood and the Destroyers at the Variety Playhouse

Tuesday the 16^th

This rock and roll show starts at 8pm and includes Moreland and Arbuckle at the Variety Playhouse.  Get your tickets at www.variety-playhouse.com.

Wine Tasting at an Authentic Tuscan Kitchen, Taverna Fiorentina

Tuesday the 16^th

Tuesdays are wine tasting day from 6 to 8pm at the Taverna Fiorentina, with five wines to taste and hors d’ oeuvres  made by Chef Paolo.  Reservations are not required but suggested.  Get directions and more info at www.tavernafiorentina.com.

Hip Hop Jam Night at Apache Café

Tuesday the 16^th

It’s Tuesday and that means it’s time for a jam session at Apache Café.  With guest MC’s and DJ’s, open mic and lots more you’ll have a night out that you’ll want to do again and again.  Go check it out at www.apachecafe.info.

Fiddler on the Roof at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center

Tuesday the 16^th

The Broadway show Fiddler on the Roof comes to Atlanta starring Harvey Fierstein.  Go to www.cobbenergycentre.com for time and tickets.

John Mayer at Phillips Arena

Wednesday the 17^th

John Mayer’s “Battle Studies” tour comes to Atlanta.  This show starts at 8pm, with special guests Michael Franti and Spearhead.  Get your tickets at www.philipsarena.com

Everyone Can Have a Blast at Malibu Grand Prix at Norcross

The weather is beginning to warm up and it’s time to get outside and have some fun.  This is a great place to enjoy some outdoor activities which include miniature golf, go carts and grand prix racers, bumper boats, batting cages and an awesome game room.  Ten dollar Tuesday and Thursday is a great deal plus they have food and fun deals.  Bumper Boats are just opening up for the year, so as the weather warms up this is a fun way to cool down.  Go check out the site and get directions at www.malibugrandprix.com

Thrashers And Hawks Schedule at Phillips Arena

Thrashers vs. Buffalo at 7pm Tuesday the 16^th

Thrashers vs. Ottawa at 7pm Thursday the 18^th

Thrashers vs. Philadelphia at 7pm on Saturday the 20^th

Hawks vs. Charlotte at 7:30 pm on Friday the 19^th

Hawks vs. San Antonio at 3:30 on Sunday the 21^st

David Ryan Harris Band, Groundhogs and DJ Sky at Smith’s Olde Bar

Thursday the 18^th

There is lots of fun to be had at Smith’s Olde Bar, where you’ll find five great rooms of entertainment to choose from.  Nearly every night great performances abound along with the great food, great spirits and a super game room full of pool tables.  You’ll have fun trying to decide which room you want to start in, but it’s a good bet you’ll be starting in the downstairs bar, since the dining room stays open til 2am!  Go see what it’s all about and get tickets to a great show at www.smithsoldebar.com.

Miranda Lambert at Wild Bills

Friday the 19^th

Wild Bills will host country music artist Miranda Lambert on Friday night.  Get your tickets at www.wildbillsatlanta.com

The Moody Blues 2010 Tour at the Fabulous Fox Theatre

Friday the 19^th

The Moody Blues, a legendary band that had made great albums steadily for four decades still tours for their fans today.   Get your tickets for an 8pm show at www.foxtheatre.org

Sgt. Peppers Mystery Tour at Variety Playhouse

Friday the 19^th

Abbey Road LIVE! Is known for the bands fearless efforts to bring the live Beatles shows back to the stage.    This show includes all the musical instruments you’d hear in an authentic Beatles tune and a psychedelic environment to make it all seem so real.  This is an 8pm show and you can get info at www.variety-playhouse.com.

The Atlanta Passion Play and the Real Easter Story at Atlanta Civic Center

Saturday the 20^th

The Passion Play takes place at two separate times on Saturday, a musical story designed to usher in the upcoming Easter season.  With performances at 11am and 4pm this is the story of the Christ, depicting some of Christ’s miracles and the people who surrounded Him in His lifetime.  Get more information at www.atlantaciviccenter.com

Jar Of Flys at Wild Bills

Saturday the 20^th

They call this one a tribute to Alice in Chains.  Also on this night is Eulogy.  Get your tickets and more info at www.wildbillsatlanta.com

Tea Leaf Green with Moon Taxi at Variety Playhouse

Saturday the 20^th

You’ll find a huge mixture of popular rock music from famous bands making up the offerings from Tea Leaf Green.  This is a group who is growing more and more popular so you won’t be disappointed.  Another 8pm show, info is found at  www.variety-playhouse.com.

Spoon at Tabernacle

Saturday the 20th

Deerhunter and The Strange Boys guest perform and the show starts at 8 pm.  Tickets and info are available at www.livenation.com

Comedian Rodney Carrington at Fox Theatre

Saturday the 20^th

Catch an outstanding comedy show at The Fox starting at 7pm.  Go to www.foxtheatre.org

Megadeath at Tabernacle

Sunday the 21^st

An awesome don’t-miss show that includes Testament and Exodus as guests.  Show starts at 7 pm.  Tickets are available at www.livenation.com

As per usual, Luckie Food Lounge is in full swing with a full crowd on Wednesday night.  DJ Infamous and co. man the turntables as the star studded, dudded-up crowd bump n’ grind to Nicki Minaj, Lil’ Wayne, and of course, the man of the hour, birthday boy Gorilla Zoe.

The 2009 album Don’t Feed the Animals of this former Boyz n da Hood member crowned the U.S. Rap Chart in 2009, as every car stereo in Atlanta blared the go-hard anthem, Lost, and the hauntingly rhythmic lament, Echo.  In the style distinct to rappers of our fair city, surrounded by an entourage sporting t-shirts boasting his name, Zoe celebrates another year of the good life – popping bottles of Grey Goose Vodka, posing for pictures, and enjoying the attention of many a lovely lady.

To the Luckie staff members, many of whom are inveterate to the club since its 2007 grand opening, serving such renowned faces as Jazze-Pha is now customary for a Wednesday night at one of Atlanta’s premiere hip hop hotspots.  It is at the same time its exclusivity to the stars as well as its accessibility to them that has culminated the notoriety Luckie possesses today.

Its considerable dance floor expands to an equally-spacious dining room.  The high ceilings leftover from the former Mercedes dealership begets an openness that distinguishes the restaurant/club from other similar concepts around town.  For Luckie, the combination goes hand in hand.  Having sustained respectability in both their Sushi and their American-fare menu, Luckie is equally as passionate about their special events, bottle service, and top-notch wait staff.

By night Luckie’s fish tanks are incandescent highlights to the dark club, and along with the bamboo-lined walls, evoke Luckie’s sleek, sexy style.  By day, the tanks are a subtle reminder to the employees of CNN, World of Coca-Cola, and Ernst and Young who frequent the lunch spot, of the Georgia Aquarium located directly across Ivan Allen Junior Boulevard.

The Sky Bar upstairs, formerly limited to VIP guests only, has recently opened up to the public, and possesses a beautiful view of the city.  Though not pastoral, watching the sunset reflected off the Ernst and Young building while relaxing on the open-air couches is just as sublime to city-lovers as an endless horizon is to beachcombers.  Look beneath you and the glass tile reveals the dance floor from a story below.  Inside the covered area, you can shoot a game of pool over a couple of cocktails from the full bar, or even a bite from the menu.

After your next visit to the beluga whales at the Aquarium or for your next ballin’ birthday party, make Luckie your destination and treat yourself to a taste of Atlanta culture and the variety it has to offer.  Who knows?  You may get lucky and meet somebody who’s somebody.

*First part of title is a quote borrowed from the song “It’s What You Thinkin,” by rap master, Tech N9ne.  Mad respect.

The Red Light Café presents the Atomic Rockets and Psycho Devilles
(21^st at 8:00pm)
Located on Amsterdam Avenue, the café is full of art work from locals, giving it an artsy feel. Both bands are in the rockabilly genre. Grab an after dinner drink at The Red Light, and spread your musical horizon wings a little farther.
Information

The Soul Shakers playing at Blind Willie’s
(22^nd at 9pm)
In Virginia Highlands there is a Cajun restaurant by the name of Blind Willie’s. They have been infamous for years for being one of the best blues clubs around. The Soul Shakers are a rhythm and soul rock and roll band. They are very influenced by the 50’s and 60’s. Come get some Cajun food and listen to The Soul Shakers for $5.
Information

Cavalia in Atlantic Station
(22^nd at 8:00pm; 23^rd at 3:00pm & 8:00pm; 26^th at 3:00pm & 8:00pm; 27^th at 2:00pm and 7:00pm)
Cavalia is not something to miss in your lifetime. It takes place in the huge white tent you may see in your peripheral view while driving on the highway. Come be amazed by the strong and magical bonds that are held between these acrobats, dancers, and the 60 beautiful horses.
Tickets

Day Before Christmas Eve Jam at The Five Spot
(23^rd at 9:00pm Doors Open)
The Five Spot is very diverse, on other nights they feature live art, animations, and many genres of musicians playing. The jam will be featuring Uprise, Charlie P, and EP3 PA Set. If you can make it before 10:00pm, you’re free!
Information

Halo Lounge holds the Matzo Ball
(24^th at 8:00pm)
This will be a high-energy night full of matchmaking and networking. The Society of Young Jewish Professors has been presenting this ball for 23 years now. They encourage Jewish singles to come out, but all nationalities are welcome! It is surely to be a crazy night full of partying at the magical Halo Lounge.
Tickets

Ice Skating at Centennial Park
(24^th at 10:00am – 5:00pm; 25^th at 5:00pm – 10:00pm)
Atlanta’s only outdoor ice skating rink is in the middle of Centennial Park! It’s the thirteenth year of their holiday tradition, which includes their extended holiday hours. At only $7, this is definitely a fantastic holiday event.
Information

The Laughing Skull Lounge presents comedian Dan Mengini
(26^th at 8:00pm & 10:00pm; 27^th at 7:00pm & 9:00pm)
In the back of the Vortex Bar and Grill is where the Laughing Skull Lounge settles. They are the smallest full-time comedy venue in the world, but bring some of the bigger names in. Dan has been on Adult Swim, One Tree Hill, and has over 35 television appearances. This is a great chance to experience both great comedy and an atmospheric restaurant in the heart of Little 5 Points.
Tickets

Atlanta Botanical Gardens presents Holiday Nights
(26^th - 30^th at 5:00pm – 10:00pm)
Take a relaxing walk through the magical gardens full of lights and take a look at the model trains chugging along. Take advantage of their extended hours! There will be holiday music accompanying you through your journeys, along with a cash bar!
Tickets

If you are looking for a place in Atlanta that is both relaxing and beautiful, check out Piedmont Park. Since 1904 Atlantans have been visiting this serene park located 2 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta. It runs down 10^th Street and Piedmont Avenue.

Piedmont Park offers its guests a myriad of things to do. One of the most enjoyable activities is following one of the four walking paths. Along the way you will pass fountains and plush green grass along the Clara Meer Lake.

Along with walking there are many other exercise related activities for you and your family. During the summer there is a swimming pool available at the Aquatic Center. Twelve tennis courts are available to the public if you want to hit some balls. Bicycle and rollerblading paths are separate from pedestrian walking paths so you can move faster. Along with two soccer fields, two sand volleyball courts and two softball fields. At Piedmont Park you can really get into shape!

If you would prefer to do less walking and more relaxing- then you are in luck! Piedmont Park stocks Clara Meer Lake with fish and all are welcome to catch them. They also provide guests with grills and picnic facilities if you want to have an outdoor party. You can also do one of the most relaxing things offered here- bird watching. With more than 175 identified species, there is plenty of watching to do.

Now what about the dog? Piedmont Park allows dogs to walk with the owners when on a leash; but one of the park’s best features is the separate Dog Park. They have enclosures for large dogs (above 30 lbs) and small dogs so everyone can play with dogs of the same size. Inside this gated park your dogs can be off leash, as long as they play well with others. There is also a watering hole right in the middle, so be sure to bring a dog bowl for some fresh water.

Activities and events are always being held at Piedmont Park, including a recent Paul McCartney concert that attracted approximately 40,000 people for a two and a half hour concert to raise money for Piedmont Park’s upcoming expansions.

Check the website for upcoming events and for all the information you need. They are found at www.piedmontpark.org. Go check it out and have some fun!

If you are looking for a destination with world-class shopping, incredible food, and a plethora of exciting attractions (not to mention an extra touch of southern charm) Atlanta, Georgia, is the place for you to vacation.

Must See Attractions

The Georgia Aquarium: Relatively new to Atlanta, The Georgia Aquarium is actually the largest aquarium in the world! No trip to Atlanta would be complete without a visit to this amazing attraction; you will be sure to run into people from all over the world.

Parks and Gardens: Know for its many botanical gardens and parks, Atlanta is a great place to enjoy a stroll in the outdoors. Some must see parks include the Atlanta Botanical Garden, Piedmont Park, and Centennial Park.

Martin Luther King Jr.: Did you know that Atlanta was the home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.? In his honor, many visitors to Atlanta take time out to visit the King Center and visit King’s childhood home.

Civil War Museums: History buffs will be in heaven in Atlanta. Many rare Civil War artifacts can be found in museums scattered throughout the city, and there are many historical sites to visit as well.

Southern Food: Delicious, authentic southern restaurants abound in and around Atlanta. Some diners you don’t want to miss include JCT Kitchen and Thelma’s Kitchen. But no matter where you eat, you are sure to be delighted and full!

Shopping: Many of the neighborhoods in Atlanta are home to a variety of quaint shops. Some of these neighborhoods that you don’t want to miss include Virginia-Highland, Little Five Points, and Inman Park. If a mall is more of your kind of shopping, then you should head directly to Phipps Plaza or Lenox Mall.

Other great attractions include a tour of the CNN Center and the World of Coca-Cola.

When To Go

If you are up for some sweltering hot weather, you can probably find some great discounts on hotels and airfare if you travel to Atlanta during July or August. However, if heat and humidity is not your thing, you want to travel to Atlanta in the spring or fall. But no matter when you travel, you can often find great airfare deals because the Atlanta airport is a major international hub.

Getting Around

A large city in its own right, Atlanta can be divided up into a few distinct areas. This might make it easier when you are trying to get around this large city.

Downtown: Full of restaurants, bars, and more, downtown Atlanta is very busy during the day and is a major economic region. Here you’ll also find the Georgia Aquarium and the CNN Center.

Sweet Auburn: This area was home to Dr. Martin Luther King.

Midtown: Here you’ll find the Atlanta Botanical Garden and Piedmont Park. Some of Atlanta’s most ritzy people flock to this chic area.

Buckhead: Once known as the entertainment district, this area is now home to a lot of the most upscale shopping in Atlanta.

Virginia-Highland: Near Emory University, this area is also well known for its shopping and dining.

Little Five Points/Inman Park: This area is more off the beaten path than most of Atlanta. If you are into vintage clothing, you don’t want to miss this area.

Byron Smith has authored an extensive collection of travel-related information for hundreds of cities around the world. You can find his articles as well as ways to find Atlanta hotel deals on HotelDealSite.com.

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