Hello, local readers! Hot off the press is this week’s edition of our weekend guide, filled with the best things to do in and around Atlanta this Thursday through Sunday. Don’t forget to add our tips to your Foursquare To-Do list, and as always, be sure to add anything we missed in the comments section. Enjoy your weekend!!
AJC Decatur Book Festival
Decatur Square. Friday night, Saturday, and Sunday. Check schedule for times. Free.
Are you read-y for the largest independent book fair in the country? Then head to Decatur Square this weekend to hear best-selling authors from across the country as they give readings, talks and participate in panel discussions. Some of this year’s highlights include: Mary Kay Andrews, author of The Fixer Upper, Cheryl Tan, author of A Tiger in the Kitchen, and James Swanson, author of Bloody Crimes. There will also be a street fair, writers conference, and many special performances.
More info and directions
Dragon*Con 2011
Hyatt Regency Atlanta. Friday thru Monday. Hours vary per event. Admission: $120 and up.
Spend Labor Day weekend in downtown Atlanta at Dragon*Con! This immeasurable convention is celebrating its 25th anniversary. People from across the globe travel to Dragon*Con yearly to attend the 3500 hours of panels, seminars and workshops revolving around science fiction. Noted highlights of the four-day fest include a parade around downtown Atlanta, a costuming fashion show, a late night puppet slam, comic book babes costume contest and a performance by Jefferson Starship!
More info and directions
Labor Day Weekend Everyday Heroes Celebration
Stone Mountain Park. Saturday – Monday. $10 Vehicle Entrance Fee.
Join our local everyday heroes on Memorial Lawn this weekend in celebration of Labor Day. All active and retired Firefighters, Law Enforcement and EMT will receive a free all-attractions Adventure Pass and $10 off each additional pass for immediate family members. Enjoy all the parks attractions and round out the day with the all new Lasershow Spectacular and special fireworks display to commemorate the occasion.
More info and directions
The Dude Fest – Bowling, Bathrobes and White Russians
Brunswick Zone Marietta. Friday, 8 pm. – 11 p.m. $15 for regular ticket, $25 for White Russian ticket.
Don your bathrobe this Friday and head to Brunswick Zone in Marietta to pay homage to The Big Lebowski with other Dudes, Walters, and Maudes. Regular tickets include bowling, shoe rental, and a screening of the film while White Russian tickets also get you two drink tickets.
More info and directions
2011 Atlanta Braves Father-Daughter Day
Saturday, September 3. 7PM. Turner Field. Upper Box, $20 per ticket; Outfield, $30 per ticket.
Enjoy father-daughter bonding time while watching the Braves take on the Los Angeles Dodgers by taking advantage of this special promotion. Ticket packages include commemorative Father-Daughter Day promotional t-shirts and access to a pre-game Father-Daughter parade on the field. Don’t forget your Tomahawks!
More info and directions
Sixth Annual Atlanta Caribbean Jerk Festival and Family Fun Day
Sunday, September 4. 12PM-10PM. Panthersville Stadium in Decatur. $12 (Children under 12 free).
Why travel to the Caribbean for Labor Day Weekend when you can experience a taste of Caribbean culture and cuisine right here in Atlanta? Activities include jerk chicken demonstrations, the crowning of Atlanta’s Top Jerk Chef, a celebrity cook off, live reggae and calypso performances and DJs, games for the kids, and more! A portion of the proceeds benefit the Atlanta Montego Bay Sister Cities Foundation and other charitable programs.
More info and directions