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.
The Junior League of Atlanta Tour of Kitchens 2011
Atlanta & surrounding neighborhoods. Saturday, 10am – 4pm; Sunday, 11am – 5pm. $25+.
Take a self-guided tour of 14 of Atlanta’s most spectacular kitchens created by top designers. The 14 homes featured are located in the North Metro Atlanta areas of Buckhead, Brookhaven, Ansley Park Morningside, Midtown, Vinings, Sandy Springs, and Dunwoody. Also included in the tour are special events such as chef demonstrations, mingling with the top foodies and designers in Atlanta, and exclusive tours of these breathtaking homes. All proceeds support programs and partnerships with over 90 community agencies that serve the needs of women and children.
More info and directions.
“COTERIE” Opening and Party
gallery1526. Saturday, 7pm – 12am. Free.
Gallery1526 is having its first party of 2011 that is featuring work from artists Chad Shore and Christian Waggoner along with 20 other local artists in the opening of “Coterie.” The opening is in conjunction with an open house for the award-winning video production house, Encyclomedia, so you can check out what they’ve been up to too. (Bonus: there will be complimentary food and drinks.)
More info and directions.
3rd Saturday Art Walk
Westside Arts District. Saturday, 11am – 5pm. Free.
On the third Saturday of each month, the Westside Arts District hosts a day of art exhibitions and events for the community. This month, they are celebrating the opening of a new member, Jennifer Schwartz Gallery, where a silent auction, “Life Support Japan,” will be held to raise money for Direct Relief International and Habitat for Humanity Japan in light of the earthquake and tsunamis that struck Japan on March 11th. Other galleries will be hosting dialogues, discussions, and artist talks throughout the day; please visit the event site for a complete list of galleries and activities.
More info and directions.
Graham Colton on Tour
Smith’s Olde Bar. Friday, 8pm. $12 in advance, $15 at the door.
This Friday, catch Graham Colton on tour, promoting a new collection of his pop-rock melodies. Ashley Arrison and Nathan Angelo will join the singer-songwriter, who is perhaps best known for his hit “Best Days.”
More info and directions.
St. Patrick’s Day at Fadó Irish Pub
Fadó Irish Pub. 7am – 2am. $10 presale, $15 at the door.
Kick off the holiday with an authentic Irish breakfast to prepare for Atlanta’s biggest Paddy’s Day celebration at Fadó Irish Pub in Buckhead. The Street Festival, which will feature bagpipers, Irish dances, and plenty o’ beer for the masses, kicks off at noon, with an impressive lineup of bands and DJ Counterstrike to follow throughout the rest of the afternoon and into the night.
More info and directions.
Publix Georgia Marathon & Half Marathon
Atlanta. Sunday, 7am. Free to cheer; $135 to run.
There’s no better way to see historic Atlanta, lovely Decatur and everywhere in between than by running the 26.2 mile Georgia Marathon course. From Centennial Olympic Park to Agnes Scott College and Piedmont Park, participants will enjoy some of the city’s best sights on Sunday morning. Registration will still be available at the expo on Friday and Saturday, but if you’re not in marathon shape, your cheers and support will be much appreciated from the sidewalks along the course.
More info and course map.