Hello, local readers. Once again we’re here with your weekend guide, where we share our favorite things to do in and around Atlanta and point out where you can get free stuff along the way. As always, be sure to add anything we missed in the comments.
Atlanta Santa Speedo Run
Manuel’s Tavern. Saturday. Registration begins at 1pm; race will begin promptly at 2pm. Free; Cash donations.
The annual Atlanta Speedo Run will grace 1.7 miles of the streets of the Virginia Highlands again this year to raise money for children and young adults with illnesses for Camp Twin Lakes. Registered runners receive a wrist band that can be traded in for a goody bag after the race and cash donations earn credit toward prizes and raffles at the end of the event. They recommend giving yourself plenty of time to register and “undress”.
More info and directions.
Virginia Highlands’ Tour of Homes
Virginia Highlands. Saturday, 10am- 5pm; Sunday, noon – 5pm. $25 in advance or $30 this weekend.
Tour period architecture throughout the Virginia Highlands and enjoy tastings from local restaurants at the 2-day annual “Homes for the Holidays” event. Hosted by the Virginia-Highland Civic Association, the Home Tour aims to preserve local treasures while raising money for Highland Park, a greenspace at the corner of North Highland and St. Charles. Sponsors include Murphy’s, D.B.A. Barbecue, el Taco, Goin’ Coastal, la Tavola, and more.
More info and directions.
Winter Wonderland: Celebrations & Traditions Around the World
Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Daily through January 5, 2011. Free with museum admission ($15 adults, $14 seniors & students, $13 children 3-12).
Celebrate the holiday season in good cheer with friends and family at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s first annual Winter Wonderland celebration, which features more than 20 trees decorated by local community partners and Consulate offices. Each tree shines with decorations and ornaments that represent cultures from around the world, including the Philippines, Mexico, Germany, and more.
More info and directions.
Breakfast with Santa at Lobby Bar & Bistro
Lobby Bar & Bistro. Saturday, 9am – 11am. $25 adults, $12 children under 12.
Santa will be in Atlanta early this year and invites your family to have breakfast with him at Lobby Bar & Bistro this Saturday morning before he heads back to the North Pole! The all-you-can-eat menu includes traditional breakfast staples as well as some extra special treats for your little elves, like magical fruit wands and mini chocolate chip pancakes topped with whipped cream. Don a bib or get there early so that your breakfast won’t be part of your picture with Santa, taken by a professional photographer.
More info and directions.
Louis C.K. Comedy Show
Cobb Energy Centre. Saturday, 8pm. $32.50+.
If you love some good ol’ dark, dry humor, you won’t want to miss comedian Louis C.K. in the flesh and on stage this weekend at the Cobb Energy Centre! The star, writer, and director of FX’s hit television series “Louie,” C.K. has delivered award-winning comedy both on screen and to live audiences alike for years. Visit http://www.cobbenergycentre.com for ticket information.
More info and directions.
Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker
Fox Theatre. Fridays, 7:30pm; Saturdays, 2pm & 7:30pm; Sundays, 2pm. Continues through December 26. $20+.
The timeless classic, the Nutcracker, is currently dancing into the hearts of many new fans at the Fox Theatre. The Atlanta Ballet’s annual holiday production will be performed every weekend through Christmas and every performance will be accompanied by the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra. Great family-friendly entertainment to spread cheer this holiday season.
More info and directions.