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!!
Georgia A-Scary-Um
Georgia Aquarium. Saturday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. $24.95 for adults.
Looking for safe and friendly Halloween fun for the whole family? Then head to the Georgia A-Scary-Um (known as the Georgia Aquarium on all other weekends) for trick-or-treating, festive music, Halloween-themed arts and crafts tables, and costume contests. Free for kids 12 and under in costume.
Pups on the Patio
Market Buckhead. Sunday, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Free; reservations suggested.
Wake up early and bring Fido to brunch! Market Buckhead is hosting Pups on the Patio, a unique dining experience where you can bring your dog! Enjoy an a la carte menu and a selection of breakfast cocktails. Dress your best friend in a Halloween costume to be eligible to win prizes from Dixie Dog Accessories. Preview the latest in doggy fashion, modeled by canines from P.A.L.S. Proceeds from the event will be donated to P.A.L.S., a local nonprofit that provides food and veterinary care to those in need.
More info and directions
PugFest 2011
Gwinnett County Fairgrounds. Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. $8 per adult, $4 for children under 12, free for pugs
Where can you find contests for “Most Gray,” “Most Wrinkles,” “Longest Tongue,” and “Best Kisser”? PugFest 2011, of course. This one-day event, sponsored by Southeast Pug Rescue & Adoption, raises money to support pugs in need. While there won’t be any selling or adopting at PugFest, there most certainly will be a raffle, silent auction, costume contest (for the pugs), live entertainment and food. Dogs under 35 pounds welcome.
More info and directions
Day of the Dead
Atlanta History Center. Sunday, noon – 5 p.m. Free.
Experience the culture of El Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) right here in your backyard! The Atlanta History Center will offer storytelling, crafts, authentic Mexican food and entertainment. In addition, families can build alters to honor departed family and friends.
More info and directions
Scary Party Pub Crawl 2
Registration at Deadwood Saloon in Midtown. Friday, 6 p.m. – 3 a.m. $15 in advance; $20 at the gate.
Start Halloween weekend off in Midtown by participating in this pub/bar crawl. Last year’s event attracted a crowd of 1300+ plus people, making it one of Atlanta’s largest Halloween bashes. A wristband gets you entry into 7 different bars/clubs, 5 drinks, raffle tickets, and more. Raffle prizes include airline tickets and Vegas vacations! Keep the party going at Cosmo Lava, which will be hosting an after party and costume contest.
More info and directions
Boos and Brews
SweetWater Brewery. Friday, 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. $35 (includes a pint glass and SweetWater beer).
Rain or shine, come in costume and be prepared for a good time! Presented by Atlanta Beer Festivals, this Halloween party promises plenty of beer, a costume contest, and live music from Nelson Brownstone. SweetWater’s patio will be tented and heated, so you have no excuse not to join the festivities! Costume contest categories include Best Male, Best Female, Best Couple/Duo, Best Group and Sexiest.
More info and directions