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. As always, be sure to add anything we missed in the comments section. Enjoy your weekend!!
Ultimate Urban Scavenger Race
Start/Finish at Gordon Biersch Midtown. Sunday, 2 p.m. $30 in advance; $50 day of.
Ever dream of competing on “The Amazing Race?” This 5K scavenger hunt race around Atlanta may be right up your alley. Teams of 2 or more are eligible to compete in this exciting race, with cash prizes at stake for race winners and costume contest winners. Start thinking about a creative team name and get ready to put your team’s physical and mental abilities to the test! Don’t forget to register early for discounted rates.
More info and directions
Chomp & Stomp
Cabbagetown Park. Saturday, 11 a.m – 6 p.m. Admission: $5.00 a spoon for chili sampling.
Celebrate autumn and the start of chili cooking season at the annual Chomp and Stomp festival. Thirteen Atlanta chefs will be judging the stiff competition. Warning: arrive early to purchase a spoon to sample the tasty concoctions. Late folks might miss out on all the chili-goodness. The Barker Brothers, Stevie Tombstone, Whitetop Mountain Band and more will be playing sweet bluegrass music for the crowd.
More info and directions
Decatur Wine Festival
Downtown Decatur. Saturday, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Ages 21+. $35.
Showcasing more than 500 global wines and food from local establishments, the Decatur Wine Festival is perfect for any wine aficionado. Sip wines, sample foods and enjoy the live music throughout the afternoon. Planning to be in town on Friday night? Visit the ArtWalk from 5-10pm as the festival kicks off in Decatur.
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Fall Auction Benefit (FAB) 2011
Atlanta Contemporary Art Center. Saturday, 7 p.m. – until. Tickets: $40 advance/$50 at door.
Dress up in your best 1960’s attire and help support the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center’s programs at the annual FAB benefit. The event is inspired by AMC’s Mad Men; enjoy scrumptious eats, cocktails and great music while you support the Arts in Atlanta. Bid on an amazing vacation package at ARIA Resort & Casino, fashion and beauty V.I.P. excursions, and exclusive insider experiences around town during FAB’s famous silent auction. Proceeds support ACAC’s programs.
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Cadillac Culinary Challenge Test Drive
Lenox Square Mall. Saturday and Sunday, Culinary Demonstrations at 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. Test drives run all day. Free
Although this event is free of charge, it promises luxury and sophistication to all those who decided to attend. One component of the event allows guests to browse and compare a display of vehicles from Cadillac’s line to their competitors from BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes, while other activities include culinary demonstrations and a cooking competition between renowned chefs Marcus Samuelsson and Kenneth Bills. Cars, cuisine, and competition: can you think of a more exciting combination?
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4th Annual Family Health & Beauty Expo
TWELVE Hotel, Atlantic Station. Saturday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Free.
Hosted by the Center for Black Women’s Wellness, this annual event returns to Atlanta for its fourth year. Bring the family and take advantage of free health screenings, cooking demos, fashion shows, giveaways and more.
More info and directions