Things to Do Archives - Atlanta With Kid

Family Summer Fun in Atlanta 2013: Festivals & Fairs Edition

May 20, 2013 By Amy Leave a Comment

There are so many fun things to do in Atlanta especially summer time. We kick off our summer fun guide – 120 Ways to Celebrate Summer in Atlanta with the Entire Family with the Festivals & Fairs edition.

This summer fun guide in Atlanta with kids is a collaboration project between Expedition Mom and Atlanta With Kid. We hope it will help you enjoy summer in Atlanta with the entire family.

Each week, Expedition Mom and Atlanta With Kid will highlight one section from our guide on our site. So for this week, today you get the detail on Festivals & Fairs section here at our site. Then on Wednesday, please head to Expedition Mom to check out her insight information on Outdoor Recreation.

You can download our summer fun in Atlanta guide here.

Festivals & Fairs Summer Fun in Atlanta 2013

Our first edition of Family Summer Fun in Atlanta 2013 Guide features Festivals & Fairs in Atlanta. Check out our picks for top festivals and fairs in Atlanta for summer 2013.

Experience tasty food at Pigs & Peaches BBQ festival in Kennesaw

BBQ is big in the South and you can’t miss out on Pigs & Peaches BBQ festival in Kennesaw. Experience the tasty barbecue and other scrumptious dessert. Mark your calendar for August 23-24, 2013. The event will be held at Adams Park in Kennesaw.

Celebrate 4th of July with fireworks, music and kids activities at Mall of Georgia

Celebrate the Independent Day weekend with fireworks, music and family-friendly activities at various locations throughout Atlanta metro. We especially love the 4th of July celebration in Mall of Georgia with live music, games and prizes for kids. See our guide to 4th of July in Atlanta.

Encounter fantastical and out-of-this-world characters at Dragon*Con parade

Even if you don’t like sci-fi, attending Dragon*Con parade is one of the unique and fun experience your kids will love. Get there early on Labor Day weekend to secure the best spot for your kids that they can see the Storm trooper march in downtown Atlanta. And if you are lucky, you might see R2D2 roaming around in the hotel lobby.

Put on your bookworm hat for the AJC Decatur Book Festival

AJC Decatur Book Festival is one of the biggest independent book festival in the South and kids of all ages will enjoy this family-friendly festival. Meet the author, enjoy yummy fair food and participate in fun kids activities are just a few things you can fit into this two days event during the Labor Day weekend in Atlanta.

Get your jazz on at Atlanta Jazz Festival, Memorial Day weekend

Celebrate the Memorial Day weekend in Atlanta with three days of music at the Atlanta Jazz Festival in Piedmont Park. Kids can also enjoy various family-friendly activities like face painting or balloon art.

Indulge in some ice cream at Atlanta Ice Cream Festival

What’s more perfect on the hot summer day in Atlanta than a fun day at the Atlanta Ice Cream Festival on Jun 27, 2013. This fun family festival is not only about ice cream but also about healthy living and fitness. The whole family can enjoy delicious ice cream and other food while participate in fun activities.

Browse artworks and crafts at Yellow Daisy Festival in Stone Mountain Park

Stroll the Stone Mountain Park and shop for the artworks or crafts at Yellow Daisy Festival from more than 400 artists and crafters from all around the country. This family-friendly event provides great family entertainments, children’s activities, fabulous festival food and fun shopping experience for the whole family. See Expedition Mom post on her experience with Yellow Daisy Festival here.

Watch vivid color of hot air balloons soaring into the sky at Callaway Garden

Kids would be mesmerizing to see vivid color of hot air balloon blanket the sky at Callaway Garden’s Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival. The Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival will be held during the Labor Day weekend from August 30 – September 1, 2013.

Get surrounded by the sea of sunflowers at Sunflower Farm Festival

Enjoy a fun day at the Sunflower farm and cut your own sunflower bouquet along with wonderful music and festival food at the Sunflower Farm Festival on July 6-7, 2013.

Enjoy the beauty of magical butterfly tent at Butterfly Festival at CNC

Delight in the magical of the air filled with colorful wings of beautiful butterflies at the Flying Color Butterfly Festival at Chattahoochee Nature Center on July 13-14, 2013

Get Your FREE Downloadable Guide today!

Don’t forget to check back again on Wednesday for another edition of our 120 Ways to Celebrate Summer in Atlanta at Expedition Mom.

Kids Skate Free in Atlanta 2013

May 10, 2013 By Amy 1 Comment

Roller skate is another fun activity to do with kids this Summer. With the heat index rising, visiting skate center in town is a great way to escape the heat. What even better is when you can do it for FREE. There are a few options for families in Atlanta area to take advantage of Kids Skate Free program. Don’t forget to check out our Summer Fun Guide in Atlanta With Kids for more ideas on fun things to do with kids this Summer.

Kids Skate Free in Atlanta 2013

Cumming: Let’s Roll Skate ‘n Fun Center

Place: Let’s Roll Skate ‘n Fun Center, 5065 Piney Grove Rd Cumming, Georgia 30040

Date: TBD

Free Skate time: TBD

Cost: FREE. Passes valid for children 12 years old and younger. Skate rentals $ extra. Can not be combined with any other offer. Can not be used towards group rates or birthday parties.

More info: Call 770 888-5000

Hiram: Sparkles Family Fun Centers of Hiram

Place: Sparkles Family Fun Centers of Hiram, 4054 Jimmy Lee Smith Pkwy

Date: May 25 – Aug 6, 2013

Free Skate time: Listed below are all the hours that the Kids Skate Free passes are accepted at this skating center.

Monday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Tuesday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Thursday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Cost: FREE. Passes valid for children 10 years old and younger. Can not be combined with any other offer. Can not be used towards group rates or birthday parties.

More info: Call 770 943-4446

Kennesaw: Sparkles Family Fun Centers of Kennesaw

Place: Sparkles Family Fun Centers of Kennesaw, 1000 McCollum Pkwy.

Date: May 25 – Aug 6, 2013

Free Skate time: Listed below are all the hours that the Kids Skate Free passes are accepted at this skating center.

Monday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Tuesday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Thursday: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Cost: FREE. Passes valid for children 10 years old and younger. Can not be combined with any other offer. Can not be used towards group rates or birthday parties.

More Info: Call 770-428-3941

Lawrenceville: Sparkles Family Fun Centers of Lawrenceville

Place: Sparkles Family Fun Centers of Gwinnett, 1104 Grayson Hwy.

Date: summer 2013

Free Skate time: Listed below are all the hours that the Kids Skate Free passes are accepted at this skating center.

Wednesday: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Thursday: 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Sunday: 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Cost: FREE. Passes valid for children 12 years old and younger. Can not be combined with any other offer. Can not be used towards group rates or birthday parties.

More Info: Call 770-963-0922

Smyrna: Sparkles Family Fun Centers of Smyrna

Place: Sparkles Family Fun Center of Smyrna, 666 Smyrna Hill Dr.

Date: May 24 – Aug 6, 2013

Free Skate time: Listed below are all the hours that the Kids Skate Free passes are accepted at this skating center.

Thursday: 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Sunday: 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Cost: FREE. Passes valid for children 12 years old and younger. Can not be combined with any other offer. Can not be used towards group rates or birthday parties.

More Info: 770-432-6222

Kids Bowl Free in Atlanta 2013: Free Bowling for Kids this Summer

May 10, 2013 By Amy Leave a Comment

Bowling is a great summer fun activity for the whole family especially during the hot summer days in Atlanta. Plus the cost for bowling for a family is more affordable than several other family activities. Now, it’s even a better choice when several bowling alleys in Atlanta metro area roll out the Kids Bowl Free summer programs.

We have compiled a list of places with free bowling for kids this summer for you. Put that on your calendar to enjoy fun family outing this summer.

Kids Bowl Free in Atlanta for Summer 2013

Conyers: AMF American Lanes

Free Bowling For Kids All Summer Long! At AMF, kids 15 and under can bowl for free all summer. Simply register and you’ll get a weekly voucher for two free games per child per day through September 3. Shoe rental is not included.

Place: AMF American Lanes: 885 Flat Shoals Rd., SE, Conyers GA 30094

Date: May 14 – Sept. 3, 2013

Age: Kids age 15 and under

Info: Register here. Free bowling available until 8 p.m., 7 days a week.

Cumming: Stars and Strikes

Kids will get 2 free bowling games from Mon-Sat all summer long at Stars and Strikes. Register and receive coupon for Kids Bowl Free coupons.

Place: Stars and Strikes Cumming: 133 Merchant Square, Cumming, GA, 30040

Date: Apr 15- Aug 31, 2013

Age: Kids age 15 and under

Info: Register here. Not good for use with daycare outings, camps, business or club outings, or birthday party celebrations. Purchased Family Passes are valid for use only during posted Kids Bowl Free times and when bowling with a Kids Bowl Free child from your family.

Dacula: Stars and Strikes

Kids will get 2 free bowling games from Mon-Sat all summer long at Stars and Strikes. Register and receive coupon for Kids Bowl Free coupons.

Place: Stars and Strikes Dacula: 1700 Winder Highway, Building 100, Located on the corner of 316 & Hwy29, Dacula, GA, 30019

Date: Apr 15- Aug 31, 2013

Age: Kids age 15 and under

Dallas: Stars and Strikes

Kids will get 2 free bowling games from Mon-Sat all summer long at Stars and Strikes. Register and receive coupon for Kids Bowl Free coupons.

Place: Stars and Strikes Dallas: 2400 Hiram/Acworth Highway, Dallas, GA, 30157

Date: Apr 15- Aug 31, 2013

Age: Kids age 15 and under

Decatur: Suburban Lanes

Kids (ages 16 & under) bowl two (2) Free Games per day on each Kids Bowl Free Day. Shoes not included. Offer excludes summer camps, recreation centers, groups, and reserved functions.

Place: Suburban Lanes: 2619 N Decatur Road, Decatur , GA, 30033

Date: Apr 1- Aug 31, 2013

Age: Kids age 15 and under *Call to verify. Site says 16 & under but registration page says 15 & under.

Kennesaw: Brunswick Zone

Students Bowl Free this Summer at Brunswick Zone. Students age 18 and younger get one free game of bowling everyday from Jun-Aug, 2013.

Place: Brunswick Zone XL Kennesaw: 775 Cobb Place Blvd., Kennesaw, GA 30144

Date: Jun – Aug, 2013

Age: Kids age 18 and under

Info: Register here.

Lawrenceville: Brunswick Zone

Students Bowl Free this Summer at Brunswick Zone. Students age 18 and younger get one free game of bowling everyday from Jun-Aug, 2013.

Place: Brunswick Zone Lilburn: 3835 Lawrenceville Highway, Lawrenceville, GA 30044

Date: Jun – Aug, 2013

Age: Kids age 18 and under

Info: Register here.

Place: AMF Snellville Lanes: 2350 Ronald Reagan Pkwy., Snellville GA 30078

Date: May 14 – Sept. 3, 2013

Age: Kids age 15 and under

Info: Register here. Free bowling available until 8 p.m., 7 days a week.

Stone Mountain: Stars and Strikes

Kids will get 2 free bowling games from Mon-Sat all summer long at Stars and Strikes. Register and receive coupon for Kids Bowl Free coupons.

Place: Stars and Strikes Stone Mountain: 1741 Mountain Industrial Blvd., Stone Mountain, GA, 30083

Date: Apr 15- Aug 31, 2013

Age: Kids age 15 and under

Woodstock: AMF Woodstock Lanes

Place: AMF Woodstock Lanes: 108 Woodpark Blvd., Woodstock GA 30188

Date: May 14 – Sept. 3, 2013

Age: Kids age 15 and under

Info: Register here. Free bowling available until 8 p.m., 7 days a week.

Hope you will enjoy summer fun on a budget with this Kids Bowl Free program.

Mother’s Day Guide in Atlanta 2013

May 3, 2013 By Amy 1 Comment

Check out our Mother’s Day Guide in Atlanta 2013 to find fun things to do to celebrate the moms and grandmothers in your family. We have a variety of fun activities and events to suit all types of families

Mother’s Day Guide in Atlanta 2013

FREE: MOM-O-RAMA at Whole Food Market Ponce De Leon

The first 50 moms to stop by will get a gift bags full of goodies! Plus try some samples and visit with representatives from Midtown Family Wellness while you are here! See more info here.

Place: 650 Ponce de Leon Ave NE, Atlanta Georgia 30308
Date: May 9, 2013
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Cost: FREE for first 50 moms to stop by

FREE: Mother’s Day Doll Tea Party @ Pottery Barn Kids

Mothers and grandmothers are invited to join us for a special tea-time with their child. Put on your finest and bring a favorite doll or teddy bear in for an afternoon of refreshments and make a special felt flower bouquet for Mom or Grandma. Space is limited and pre-payment is required. Call your local store to reserve your spot today.

Place: Pottery Barn Kids store, Lenox Mall, 3393 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30326
Date: May 11, 2013
Time: 3 pm & 4 pm
Cost: $10 per child (Age 4 and up)

FREE: Sweetheart’s Frame @ Lowe’s Build & Grow Kids Clinic

Mother’s Day is right around the corner! This Sweetheart Frame makes the perfect gift!

Place: Lowe’s Build & Grow Kids Clinic
Date: May 10, 2013
Time: 10AM
Cost: FREE. See site to register.

FREE: Mother’s Day Card Crafft @ American Girl Atlanta

Show Mom she’s loved! Your girl can make Mother’s Day extra-special by decorating a pretty card and matching envelope, then adding a special message to Mom on the inside.

Place: AmericanGirl Store, North Point Mall, 1202 North Point Circle, Alpharetta, GA 30022
Date: May 12, 2013
Time: 1 pm – 3 pm
Cost: FREE and open to public. For girls ages 8 and up. See site for more info.

FREE: Mother’s Day Crafts @ Michaels Stores

Celebrate Mother’s Day with various crafts projects at Michaels stores. There are several in the month of May for Mother’s Day crafts from Mother’s Day handprint keepsake and Mother’s Day coupon book.

Place: Michaels Stores. See site for store locations and more info.
Date: May 6-7, 2013
Time: 5PM – 7PM
Cost: FREE Family Craft Time & some with purchase.

FOOD: Mother’s Day Tea for Tot Cooking Class at Whole Food Market Alpharetta

Mom will love the thought and care the littlest hands put into preparing her special meal. Students will prepare small bites that are the traditional elements of a proper English tea, and then enjoy tasting the recipes with their special guest.

MENU: Herbed Cucumber Cream Cheese Canapés; Currant Scones with Jam and Honey Butter; and Fresh Fruit Kabobs with Mango-Ginger Sauce. Lemonade and spiced tea will be served.

There are different age ranges & times. See site more info here.

Must register! $19 per child

Place: 1180 Upper Hembree Rd, Roswell Georgia 30076
Date: May 11, 2013
Time: Varied
Cost: $19 per child

FOOD: Mother’s Day Brunch @American Girl Atlanta

Celebrate Mom at American Girl! Join us for a special Mother’s Day brunch, then enjoy exploring the world of American Girl together.

Reservations required; call toll-free 877-247-5223. For girls ages 3 and up. See site for more info.

Place: American Girl Store, North Point Mall, 1202 North Point Circle, Alpharetta, GA 30022
Date: May 12, 2013
Time: 9:30AM
Cost: $14.50 per person (gratuity and sales tax not included)

FOOD: Just Mom and Me @American Girl Atlanta

It’s time for mother-daughter day! You’ll enjoy a special meal, make a paper family tree, and even sign a “mother-daughter promise” to keep creating memories. Includes a keepsake photo and frame, plus an American Girl book to take home.

For girls ages 8 and up. Reservations required; call toll-free 877-247-5223. See site for more info.

Place: American Girl Store, North Point Mall, 1202 North Point Circle, Alpharetta, GA 30022
Date: May 10, 2013
Time: Available during bistro hours.
Cost: $38 per person (sales tax included)

FOOD: Mother’s Day Brunch @ Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium is thrilled to offer our Annual Mother’s Day Brunch on Sunday, May 12, 2013. Whale sharks, manta rays and beluga whales provide a memorable backdrop as guests dine in the Aquarium’s breathtaking Oceans Ballroom.

Entry for this event will be through the main entrance. Seating will begin promptly at 11:00 a.m. at the Oceans Ballroom entrance located in the Recognition Rotunda of the Aquarium.

Guests may explore the Aquarium before and after the event at a special discounted rate. The general admission and member price for Mother’s Day Brunch includes access to all of the Aquarium exhibits, AT&T Dolphin Tales show, Deepo’s Undersea 3D Wondershow and Frogs: A Chorus of Colors.

Place: Georgia Aquarium, 225 Baker Street Northwest, Atlanta, GA
Date: May 12, 2013
Time: 11AM
Cost: Adults & Seniors – $66.95, Children (3-12) – $41.95 ( Prices include general admission.) Additional discount for members.

EVENT: Gardens for Connoisseurs @ Atlanta Botanical Garden

From grand estates to “gardener’s gardens,” the 2013 Gardens for Connoisseurs Tour showcases eleven spectacular private gardens representing the finest in garden design. Both gardening enthusiasts and the “garden curious” will delight in exploring exquisite design and enchanting planting ideas by talented landscape architects, garden designers, and local gardeners.

This year the Tour includes bonus admission to the Decorators’ Show House exterior gardens and discounted $15 admission to the interior house on May 11 and 12.

The Tour is an annual Mother’s Day Weekend tradition since 1984 with proceeds benefitting the Garden.

Place: Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE Atlanta, GA30309
Date: May 11-12, 2013
Time: 10AM – 5PM
Cost: $25 Advance Tickets. $30 Day of Tour, $10 Individual Garden Admission, Children under 12 Free

EVENT: Baby and Child Expo @ The Fox Theatre

This is THE premier party for expectants and new parents in Atlanta, referred to as “the best baby expo event we’ve attended” by The Bump magazine’s area representatives. You’ll find “all things baby” for new moms and moms-to-be, as well as their friends & family.

Event highlights include great giveaways of nursery furniture, strollers, and more, relaxing mommy pampering, maternity fashion show, baby gear runway, and Cravings Corner!

Place: The Fox Theatre – Atlanta | 660 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30308
Date: May 11, 2013
Time: 11 am – 3 pm
Cost: From $20-$40. Enter for a chance to win free ticket from our tickets giveaway.

EVENT: Medieval Mother’s Day @Medieval Times

Treat mom like a Queen on Mother’s Day weekend at Medieval Times. FREE for all mothers with purchase of one full-priced adult.

Place: Medieval Times, 5900 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville,GA
Date: May 7-12, 2013
Time: Check for showtimes
Cost: FREE for all mothers with purchase of one full-priced adult

How do you celebrate Mother’s Day?

Brer Rabbit & Friends Review: Fantastic Show @ Center for Puppetry Arts

April 30, 2013 By Atlanta Parent Squad 2 Comments

Looking for a way to spend a day as a family? Our Atlanta Parent Squad, Heidi Clarke, went to Center for Puppetry Arts and gave us the Brer Rabbit & Friends review. Check out what she thought about this family-friendly show, Brer Rabbit & Friends at Center for Puppetry Arts in Atlanta.

Brer Rabbit & Friends Review

I have to admit, when I signed up to go view this “puppet” show I had low expectations. My only experience with puppet shows were the few I had seen at the library with my son – sock puppets, little wooden frames with fabric curtains, voices that all sound the same (with mild variations in pitch), jokes that are only funny for kids, and a maximum of two *very old* puppeteers. You know the type. Enjoyable…for my four year old. Period.

More Than Just a Puppet Show

This show was not what I would consider a puppet show. I would place it alongside a smaller, more child-friendly version of a Fox Theater musical production. The music was fantastic. The mood was palpable. The characters were fun, fresh, and HILARIOUS – and not just for my four year old.

The second we walked into the theater, we were transported to the deep south. Mama Narrator began various African American tales that were then hilariously recreated by cute woodland puppets and their masters. My four-year-old son could not stop talking about Brer bear losing his tail, Brer Fox pretending to be dead, or Brer Rabbit and the Tar Baby. My one-year old was even enthralled the whole show. He especially loved the slapstick, Charlie Chaplin-style humor of Brer Bear and Brer Fox. Both loved the flowing, gorgeous singing voice of Sister Mud Turtle. And, of course, my four-year-old’s favorite character was Brer Rabbit – especially because of how smart and tricky he was.

But while my son was engrossed in the stories, (which, of course, I was as well) I was astounded by the talent – the puppetry skills, the singing, the music, the set work, even the lighting and sound. It was a very well-put together, professional piece of theater art. I have spent some time in the Musical and Theater world, and thus can appreciate the time and effort put in to create such a well-tuned, flawless show. It was fantastic. It is worth every bit of the long drive and money spent to see it.

Mom Approved

After the show, we enjoyed the museum (my older son especially liked seeing Big Bird and Cookie Monster), and even got to make our own Brer Bear Puppet. It really was a great way to spend the day as a family. I highly recommend it.

Brer Rabbit & Friends Performance Information:

Location: Mainstage Theater, Center for Puppetry Arts, 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, Atlanta, GA 30309

Date: Apr 11 – May 26, 2013

Showtimes:

Tues-Fri: 10am & 11:30am
Sat: 12pm & 2pm
Sun: 1pm & 3pm

Cost: Member – $9.25 per person, Non-Member – $16.50 per person

Note: Check out website to purchase tickets. Recommended for ages 4+

About Heidi Clarke

Heidi Clarke is first and foremost a mother to two energetic, sweet, crazy little boys (both under the age of 4). She is also the wife of a busy medical student. In her spare time she is writing for juicingpedia.com, a site all about her escapades and education in health and nutrition, with many lovely juicing recipes included. She found that thus far she has had no opportunity to use her Master’s in Education, but plan on using it someday….maybe after these chubby bums are clean and little mouths are fed…

Photo credit: Center for Puppetry Arts

Parent Review of Sister Act Broadway Show in Atlanta

April 25, 2013 By Atlanta Parent Squad Leave a Comment

Today’s review of Sister Act broadway show in Atlanta is contributed by our Atlanta Parent Squad, Cheryl Miller. Cheryl is a devoted wife and Mom of a fun-loving first grader.

The Fabulous Fox Gets “Ghetto Fabulous” with Broadway’s Production of “Sister Act”

Thank you to the Atlanta Parent Squad for sending me on my first official mission to report on the world class entertainment we are all so fortunate to enjoy here in Atlanta. Last night, my little girl and I were treated to the Broadway Production of “Sister Act” and it was even better than I had expected!

As any Mom will likely tell you, it is easy to get into a routine once you have a child. Not only that, but routines are actually good for kids and can help us stay organized. But, when “routine” starts to turn into a “rut,” busy Atlanta Moms with kids have to find a way to break free!

Mother & Daughter Night Out in Downtown Atlanta

One of my most favorite ways to enjoy Atlanta and show my daughter how fun it can be to live near a great city like Atlanta, is to see a show at the Fox Theatre in downtown Atlanta. And, for a short time, you are in luck! If you love to laugh and your child enjoys singing and dancing, then get out this week and see “Sister Act” at the Fabulous Fox Theater downtown Atlanta.

What We Love About Sister Act Performance

Sister Act was adapted to the stage and has been playing on Broadway. But, last night we had the chance to see it live, thanks to the Atlanta Parent Squad. What did we love about it? Oh just EVERYTHING!

The big flashing lights of the Fox marquee, the walk down the red carpet, the friendly attendants who help you find your seat – these are some of the things that make the Fox great! My daughter and I were both in awe of the luxurious surroundings, the tapestries, the velvet cushions and draperies. It’s all part of the decor that makes the Fox so unique. It has that old-time glamorous Hollywood feeling. And, once you get inside, your child will be amazed to see the ceiling that’s painted to look like the night sky. It is breathtaking at any age and so fun to see with your little one.

We arrived a bit early as you just never know how the traffic might delay your trip downtown. There are cheaper ways to get to the FOX, but we opted to park across the street for $15. With 30 minutes still to go before showtime, the lot was near capacity. So, leaving home in plenty of time is definitely important.

Kid’s Take on Broadway Musical

My daughter, who is 6, was so impressed she could hardly contain her excitement. Every once in a while she just had to jump up and down out of pure joy just while waiting in line. I told her a little about what the musical “Sister Act” might be like based on what I could recall from the movie that starred Whoopie Goldberg many years ago. I knew it would have a lot of great singing and dancing and I was right. The leading women in this musical were outstanding and the acoustics at the Fox are beyond compare. It was sensational!

The entire storyline takes place in the 1970′s and has a funky disco feel to it. From the moment you hear the first song, you will already want to start dancing in your seat. By the time the second act is nearing its end, you will be shouting “Amen Sister!” and doing your own rendition of the boogie-woogie! And, you you will not be alone. The audience was really have a great time and enjoying the show. On stage there was a rappin’ granny nun and a priest with a little hip hop added to his sermon to reach a younger crowd. It will have you laughing out loud.

This show was perhaps a bit advanced in terms of some of the humor for my 1st grader, but it was not offensive. And, at least she never once got bored. But, for children a bit older, maybe 10 – 12 years old, it should be the perfect mix of story line and action to keep them interested, but enough lyric and song to teach them to appreciate the art of live performance.

On our way out we stopped to look at the mementos. My daughter decided on a pink T-shirt adorned with silver sparkling nuns dancing around on the front and one hot pink nun in the middle. Why am I getting the idea that she already knows what she wants to wear to her own church choir, which is performing tonight for family and friends?

The shirt and the great memories still have me smiling today. However, I know who to thank if my little one decides that the shirt isn’t quite enough and decides to “bust a move” on stage like the nuns from the show! Ha ha! Thank you Atlanta Parent Squad!

Sister Act Broadway Musical Information:

If you would like to enjoy Sister Act, we have the 411 on the show for you.

Place: Fox Theatre, 660 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

Date: Now – April 28, 2013

Ticket price: FULL PRICE: $45-$65 GOLDSTAR PRICE: $25.50-$35.50*. Additional fees apply. Purchase tickets here.

Check out Sister Act discount tickets information here.

About Cheryl Miller

Cheryl Miller gave up her corporate, cut-throat career as a Marketing Research Manager for CNN in Atlanta for the “simple life” of a devoted wife and Mom of a fun-loving first grader. She blogs about the schools and cell towers on her group’s website: www.GETtheCELLoutATL.org and writes news and opinion pieces for the Tucker Patch. She has lived in DeKalb County for 13 years, the past 10 have been in Tucker. She hopes to bring some humor to her postings and help her Tucker community attract some new fans to its local events, kid-friendly restaurants and shoppes and other attractions

Photo Credit: Joan Marcus, Cheryl Miller

Buford with Kids: Water Fountains at Buford Community Center

April 24, 2013 By Atlanta Parent Squad Leave a Comment

Looking for a fun day in Buford with kids? Our Atlanta Parent Squad, Heidi Clarke, found a new water fountain perfect for a sunny day this summer in Buford. Check out her review on her latest visit to water fountains at Buford Community Center with her kids. It will be a great alternative water fun in Suwanee and Buford area.

Planned Water Fun @ Suwanee Town Center Fountains

I went to Suwanee Town Center today with my boys, fully expecting to be able to allow them to play in the fountains (as usual). Being that it was 83 degrees outside, I had even come in a swimming suit…this mama needed some cooling down, too.

The fountains were broken. I can’t tell you if I was more sad or my boys. I thought about driving over to the Mall of Georgia, a thirty minute drive from where I was, even though I knew in an hour my youngest son would need to take a nap. I began contemplating whether the nap was more important or the playtime.

I tend to fail as a mommy when it comes to responsible nap schedules versus playtime. I think it might be because I get just as excited about the outside playtime, maybe even more than my boys. Avoid the dishes and laundry while getting a suntan and not having to entertain my boys? Yep. That’s what I’ll choose.

New Water Fun @ Buford Community Center Fountains

So, as I’m packing my boys in, about to head over to the Mall, I hear one of the workers ask me if I’m going to the Buford Town Center fountains. Buford fountains? Excuse me? You see Buford has recently built a huge town center and park, just like Suwanee’s. And, apparently, keeping up with the Jones’s, they also had fountains installed.

A quick 15 minute drive later (just up Buford Highway), my boys were pleasantly soaking up the sun and water.

I honestly can’t say which fountains I like better – the Buford Community Center fountains one has much more variety of fountain streams, as well as differing times when they are on and off (my one year old got a kick out of that). Some shoot from the ground, some from the wall on the side. The surrounding area is a bit nicer, too – picnic tables, gazebos, more benches, etc.

My only hesitation about it was that there was only a (relatively, for how fast my one year old is) small stretch of grass before the busy highway. Being that this stretch is all downhill, when the kids were done playing in the waters and playing in the grass, I had to be on UBER guard duty, keeping my son from racing into the road. This, of course, was not a problem for my four year old, but I digress…

Either way I loved the park, and so did my boys, so I thought I’d spread the news. If the Suwanee town center fountains are further away from your house, or turned off for whatever reason, there IS hope…the Buford fountains are phenomenal!

I forgot my camera, so I couldn’t snap a pic of my boys playing. But the picture above is courtesy of Buford Community Center.

Buford Community Center Fountains Information

Address: 2200 Buford Highway, Buford, Georgia 30518

Detail: The Buford Community Center, Town Park & Theatre is a state of the art facility featuring several versatile and distinct venues. The Buford Community Center features over 5,700 square feet of banquet and meeting space, a 290 seat stage theatre, an outdoor amphitheater for concerts and events and a plaza featuring an interactive fountain.

So have you been to this new fountains in Buford? Do share your pictures with us on our Facebook or email!

About Heidi Clarke

Photo credit: BCC

Things to Do in Atlanta with Teenagers

April 23, 2013 By Atlanta With Kid Guest Blogger Leave a Comment

Looking for fun things to do in Atlanta with teenagers? Sometimes it can be difficult to please the whole family that have kids from toddler to teen age. So we have asked our teen correspondent, Lexi Tillman to chime in and give us the scoop on what teenagers really like to do. Lexi is a Metro-Atlanta teen with her sights set on being an actress and filmmaker. She blogs at Typical TeenAge.

See what Lexi recommends for favorite things to do in Atlanta with her teen friends.

The Usual Attractions

Six flags

Everybody loves Six Flags. Just get on a rollercoaster and scream out every frustration.

White waters

I love White Waters, its coolest place to hang out in the summer

Museums to Amuse

Fernbank museum

Fernbank has good food and changing exhibits. It’s good for when you want that interesting yet smoother pace. http://www.fernbankmuseum.org/

Zoo atlanta

I love animals so this is just an awesome place for me personally. Also if you just want to walk in nature and enjoy a cool day, this is the place to do it.

Georgia aquarium

I am dying to see the new dolphin show. Just another great place to spend with family or friends. http://www.georgiaaquarium.org/

World of Coca-Cola

You get to make your own flavor at the end of the tour, and I personally love most coca cola products so its an awesome place. Also if you live in Atlanta and you’ve never been, shame on you. http://www.worldofcoca-cola.com/

Atlanta botanical gardens

Pretty flowers and in my opinion it would be a great place for a date. http://www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org/

Places to Go

Little five points

Food, shopping, culture, need I say more. http://www.atlanta-midtown.com/business/l5p/

Underground Atlanta

More food, more shopping, more culture.http://www.underground-atlanta.com/

Games and Recreation

Baseball games

It’s the Atlanta Braves, you’ve got to see them at least once, baseball fan or not. http://atlanta.braves.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=atl

Andretti

Take out your road rage on an indoor track, also there’s other arcade games. http://www.andrettikarting.com/

Atlanta rocks indoor climbing gym

Safe indoor thrill, doesn’t get much better than that. This would also be a pretty good place to have a date. http://atlantarocks.com/

About Lexi Tillman

Lexi Tillman is a Metro-Atlanta teen with her sights set on being an actress and filmmaker. She has a knack for writing, fashion, and Apple products. When she is not hanging out at home (she is currently homeschooled), she is attending acting/modeling classes, exercising, and cooking. She blogs at Typical TeenAge

photo credit: Claudio.Ar

Atlanta With Kids: 13 Things to Do in Atlanta before You’re 13

April 15, 2013 By Amy 1 Comment

For parents of newborn, toddler and preschooler, I have one advice, enjoy every moment (the good, the bad and the sleepless). It’s true when they said times fly. I still remember when we first moved to Atlanta when our kids were in preschool how every weekend was a fun new adventure for us to go out and explore what this great city has to offer. Fast forward a few years later, when our weekend activities are filled with friend’s birthday parties and sport activities. And now my older daughter will go to middle school this coming school year. Soon before I knew it, she will be a teenager!

Those fun adventures are great memory we created as a family but don’t take it for grant. Some activities are fun for kids in certain age. Once they get older, they are less likely to enjoy them.

So here are our list of 13 things to do in Atlanta before your kids turn 13. You can also click to download printable pdf file to take along with you on the outing or put it up on your fridge.

13 Things to Do in Atlanta before You’re 13

1. Play, learn and explore at Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Children’s museum of Atlanta is an awesome place for kids from toddler to age 6. After that, it will be harder to hold their interest. But younger kids will be in awe and love to explore every inch of this great Atlanta attraction.

2. Build sand castle and swim at Buford Dam park beach

Most kids love swimming. What could be more fun than spending a beautiful afternoon on the beach and building sand castle. The Buford Dam Park Beach is a great way to escape for family that doesn’t involve a long car ride and crazy expensive admission price to water parks. Yet kids can still have fun in the water.

3. Make a puppet at Center for Puppetry Art

Center for Puppetry Art is a great place for a fun day indoor where kids will enjoy puppet show, learn about puppet history and even make their own puppet creation. The center has been a great destination for school field trips.

4. Taste soft drinks from around the world at World of Coca-Cola

Ok. This visit might still bode well even when your kids are well into their teen years. Who doesn’t want to try out all your heart or your mom will allow soda from Coca-Cola. But the World of Coca-Cola is not all about free drinks, kids will also enjoy meeting the polar bear, watch 4-D movie and see the factory. Our kids still beg us to go back there again.

5. Pick your own fruits at local U-Pick farms

Kids love to do things on their own. It makes them feel like an adult. So picking your own fruits is one of the best family activity. Luckily in Atlanta metro area we have several u-pick farms for all season from pick-your-own apples farms in Fall to strawberry picking in Spring.

6. Watch movie under the star at outdoor summer movie series

Summer can be stressful for parents to try to fill up the day of kids complaining about being bored at home. The outdoor summer movie series is a great way to chase away those boredom in the house. Pack up the car with lawn chairs and some snack and the whole family will enjoy a movie night under the star.

7. Eat cotton candy and funnel cake at Atlanta Dogwood festival

Spring festivals in Atlanta is fun and perfect for families. Cotton candy, hotdog, funnel cake and italian ice are some of food you can easily find at the festival. And one of the most popular festival in Atlanta, Dogwood festival, has a bit of everything and more for the whole families.

8. Learn to build at Home Depot Kids Workshop or Lowe’s Build & Grow

This might be the only time parents can feel at ease letting their kids handle real hammer and nail. The Home Depot Kids’ Workshop and Lowe’s Build & Grow offer free workshops for kids on the weekend.

9. Hike up to top of the fall at Amicalola Falls

Hiking with kids might sound like a lot of work especially if you are not outdoor type person (like me). But a visit to Amicalola Falls will give anyone even the novice in hiking the sense of accomplishment and the joy of reaching the top the falls. If you are not sure about hiking for the first time, you can cheat a little bit and drive up to the parking lot where all you have to do just walk on a short trail to the top of the falls. Baby step!

10. Watch airplanes take off at Dekalb Peachtree Airport playground

There is something about seeing a huge metal thing flying out into the sky that mesmerizing to kids especially boys. The Dekalb Peachtree airport playground is a great place to let them run and play while spotting aircraft taking off and landing nearby.

11. Tour the farm at Cagle’s Family Farm

Kids love animal. It’s the fact. A visit to local farm like Cagle’s Family Farm is fun and entertaining for kids. They will meet farm animals and maybe even learn how to milk the cow.

12. Cool down with water fountain at the Centennial Olympic Park

There are several splash pad and water fountains around town but the most recognized one for Atlanta metro is none other than the Centennial Olympic Park. It’s just something you have to experience once. It was fun for kids to run through the rings of fountain. But be warned, there is very little to no shade around the fountain so bring the umbrella.

13. Meet the dinosaur at Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Fernbank Museum of Natural History has a lot to offer more than just the dinosaur that greets everyone as we enter the museum. With multi-level of learning and fun for kids to explore including IMAX movie and special exhibition that changes on a regular basis, kids can spend hours in there.

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Blueberry Picking in Atlanta: Guide to Pick Your Own Blueberries Farms

April 15, 2013 By Amy 2 Comments

Look for guide to blueberry picking farms in Atlanta and North Georgia area? You have come to the right place. We have compiled a list of pick your own blueberries farms in Atlanta and the surrounding area for you.

Blueberry picking is another family fun activity that kids will enjoy.

Guide to Blueberry Picking in Atlanta

Adams Farm

Address: 1486 Georgia Highway 54 West, Fayetteville, Georgia 30214
Phone: 770-461-9395
Date & Hour: April 1st and ends mid-July. 9:00am to 4:00pm Monday through Saturday
More Info: Check website http://www.adamsfarmfayettevillega.com/About_Our_Farm.html

Berry Patch Farms

Address: 786 Arnold Mill Road, Woodstock, GA
Phone: 770-926-0561
Date & Hour: TBA. 8 AM – 9 PM
More Info: Check website http://www.berrypatchfarms.net/index.htm

The Blueberry Farm

Address: 1363 Highway 151, LaFayette, Georgia 30728
Phone: 706-638-0908
Date & Hour: early July – late August. 7:00 am – 9:00 pm, Monday – Tuesday & Thursday – Sunday
More Info: Check website https://www.theblueberryfarm.com

Cool Springs Blueberry Farm and Nursery

Address: 5975 Smith Mill Road, Gainesville, Ga 30506
Phone: 770-535-7350
Date & Hour: Mid June. Call for hours & availability
More Info: Check website http://u-pickblueberries.webstarts.com/index.html

The Dacula Briar Patch

Address: 2503 Cammie Wages Road, Dacula, Georgia 30019
Phone: 770-962-4990
Date & Hour: Second week of June. 7:00 am – 7:00 pm Tuesday to Saturday
More Info: Check website https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Dacula-Briar-Patch/165015433521143

DJ’s U-Pick Blueberry Farm

Address: 1839 Prospect Road, Lawrenceville, Ga 30043
Phone: 678-442-7853
Date & Hour: TBA. 8am – 7pm Monday through Saturday
More Info: Check website http://u-pickblueberries.webstarts.com/index.html

Fleeman’s U-Pick Blueberries

Address: 716 Harrison Mill Road, Winder, GA. 30680
Phone: 770-867-3420
Date & Hour: TBA. Call for hours & availability
More Info: Check website http://www.fleemansblueberries.com/index.html

Gardner Farms

Address: 3192 Hwy. 42, Locust Grove, Georgia 30248
Phone: 770-957-4912
Date & Hour: TBA. Call for hours & availability
More Info: Check website http://www.Gardner-Farm.com

Hard Labor Creek Blueberry Farm

Address: 38 Knox Chapel Road, Social Circle, Georgia 30025
Phone: 770-464-2412
Date & Hour: TBA. Call for hours & availability
More Info: Check website https://sites.google.com/site/hlcblueberries/

Roberts’ Family Farm

Whippoorwill Hollow Farm

Address: 3905 Hwy 138, Covington, GA 30014
Phone: 678-625-3272
Date & Hour: Mid June thru August. Call for hours & availability

Yule Forest Hwy 155

Address: 3565 Hwy 155 North, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281
Phone: 770-954-9356
Date & Hour: June 10th. 7a.m.- dark, 7 days a week
More Info: Check website http://www.aboutyule.com/blueberry-picking/

See Map to U-Pick Blueberries Farm near Atlanta, Georgia

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