Memorial Day Weekend Events in Atlanta with Kids

Vietnam Veteran memorial

Memorial Day weekend is right around the corner. I hope you will have a great long weekend. We are heading out of town. But for you who stay in town, don’t fret. Thanks to Alicia from AtlantaMoms.com who compiled a great list of fun events around town.

Here are Memorial Day Weekend Events in and around Atlanta Area

Memorial Day Weekend Festival at Callaway Gardens
Summer is just around the corner and Callaway Gardens will be heating up with a fun-filled Memorial Day Weekend Festival to get you into that warm-weather state of mind. We have an array of beach activities and events planned, so join us for some fun in the sun on this All-American holiday weekend!
WHEN: May 27th – 29th
WHERE: Callaway Gardens
Twitter: @callawaygardens
Facebook: Callaway Gardens

End of School Play Day
Summer is finally here and it is time to play. Celebrate the end of the school year with our play day celebration.  We will be rolling out the hula hoops, throwing out the Frisbees, parading our parachutes and dusting off our art chalk.  We will supply the toys and invite you to play some of your favorite outdoor games or invent a new one.  Bo’s Bubbles will happen from 2:00 -3:30 during play day!  Explore the magical world of bubbles using all kinds of wands, recycled household items & the best bubble makers ever – your hands! Learn how to let the wind carry your bubbles away & enjoy catching the bubbles as fast as you make them! Science in action, & good clean fun for all ages! All Ages
WHEN: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
WHERE: Chattahoochee Nature Center
Twitter: @ChattNature
Facebook: Chattahoochee Nature Center

The 2011 Atlanta Jazz Festival
WHEN: Saturday, May 28 – Monday May 30th
WHERE: Piedmont Park
Twitter: @AtlantaJazzFest

Memorial Day Weekend Salute to the Troops
Stone Mountain park honors our troops and their families, in a three-day celebration of American spirit at Atlanta’s largest Memorial Day Weekend celebration.
WHEN: May 28th -30th
WHERE: Stone Mountain Park
Facebook: Stone Mountain Park

Veterans Remembrance Day
Throughout the day, visitors interact with both veterans and living history interpreters who represent the various branches of the United States Armed Forces. Both share stories about battles and military strategies of the various wars through displays of authentic dress, equipment, and vehicles.
WHEN:
Sunday, May 29, 2011   Noon – 5:00 PM
WHERE: Atlanta History Center

Brew at the Zoo (21 & older only!)
If you like sampling beer and wine at one of Atlanta’s wildest (literally) outdoor destinations, then Brew at the Zoo is the event for you!
WHEN: May 28th 5:30-8:30pm
WHERE: Zoo Atlanta
Twitter: @ZooATL
Facebook: Zoo Atlanta

Memorial Weekend at Chateau Elan
A Memorial Day weekend getaway is a great way to welcome summer and enjoy some quality time with the ones you love. Start your summer surrounded by rolling vineyards and warm Southern hospitality at Château Élan.
WHEN: Friday May 27th – Monday May 30th
WHERE: Chateau Elan
Twitter: @ChateauElan
Facebook: Chateau Elan

Decatur Arts Festival

Join us for the largest art event in Decatur, Georgia! The Artists Market is Memorial Day weekend, May 28-29, and other events run throughout the month of May. This month-long celebration of the arts kicks off with the Poster Unveiling on Thursday, May 5, and culminates with the closing of the Fine Arts Exhibition Sunday, June 5. Every event is free and open to the public!
WHEN:
May 28 : 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and May 29 : 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
WHERE: Downtown Decatur Square
Twitter: @DecArtsFest

Holly Springs 5K & Fun Run
WHEN:
May 28, 2011 – 8:00 am
WHERE: Holly Springs Elementary

[Source: AtlantaMoms.com/blog]

5 Ways to Save on Family Fun with Daily Deal Sites

Atlanta With Kids

Many of you might remember that I have started a new blog called ‘Atlanta Deal Sites‘ that posts about Atlanta daily deals from all group buying deal sites in Atlanta. The reason I started a new blog because many times the deals are not all family-friendly and I want to keep the content on this blog as clean and as family friendly as possible.

Each day we post at least 20-25 deals a day in Atlanta metro area. So I have seen many many deals and purchased those for our own family. So today I would like to share how we enjoy family fun and outings on a cheap.

See our 5 Ways to Save on Family Fun with Daily Deals

Atlanta Deal Sites1. Cheap Movie Night

I have seen many movie tickets deals on various deal sites from KGB Deals, Mamapedia or Tippr. Typically, the movie ticket for adult will cost you minimum $7 and you will have to watch them before noon. With the daily deal sites, you can grab those for $5 per ticket.

I just recently took my whole family to watch Narnia 3D at the Studio Movie Grill. We grab the current $5 Movie and a Soda deal from Mamapedia. A great family movie night that costs us $20 including soda for each of us.

2. Dining Out On the Cheap

The best way to save on family budget is to cook your own meal at home. It’s a given. But for this working mom, cooking after a long day of work sometimes is not very appealing. I always look out for great local restaurant deals in my area. And there are plenty to have.

Make sure you read all the fine print and understand the term and condition. Not all deals are created equal.

3. Budget Friendly Kid’s Birthday Party

For many families, kid’s birthday party is a big expense in their budget. I have done both home party and various kid-friendly places. Lately, I have leaned more toward store birthday’s package. There are many kid-friendly options that you can look for. And if you follow Atlanta Deal Sites feed, you will see that many times they will offer promotion with various deal sites.

Along with the movie tickets I got from Mamapedia deal, I grab additional tickets (thanks to unlimited purchase) and plan to use that for my daughter’s birthday party. She loves watching movie and we had her birthday celebration at a theatre before. This is a perfect way to save and still manage to give my kid a birthday celebration they want.

4. Discount on Family Attractions

Of course, Atlanta with Kid is a great resource for you to find free or cheap family friendly things to do in Atlanta. And one of the way to do it on the cheap is to plan ahead and snag a deal when you see one.

Recently, there were multiple deals for fun adventures like zipline, canoeing or horse back riding. Yes, we are in the middle of winter and the last thing you want is going ziplining in the wood. But if you read the expiration date carefully, most of them will give you at least 6 months to one year. So you can save that for the summer.

A quick look at my favorite Half Off Depot found a couple deals perfect for family like Center for Puppetry Arts or the Rinks at Park Tavern Piedmont Park.

5. Grown up Fun

A happy mom is a happy family. So it’s also a great idea to look out for grown up fun that mom or dad can enjoy like spa service, golf or beauty salon. With the daily deal, you can have a blissful hour long massage for less than half price. It helps reduce the mommy guilt when we spend money on ourselves.

Do you have additional ways to save on family fun? Please share!

Christmas in Atlanta With Kids: Top 10 Holiday Specials for Family-Friendly Attractions

Christmas in Atlanta With Kids: Top 10 Holiday Programs

Christmas in Atlanta with kids is FUN! There are so many fun things to do with kids all around town that it is so hard to keep track. After taking Photos with Santa and checking out the Christmas Light shows around town, you might need a break for a day or two.

Now if you are still looking for more holiday fun, we have another great list for you. This list will be especially helpful when you have family coming to visit from out of town. Because you will want to take them to many top Atlanta attractions. Use this list to find out what are special holiday programs they have in store for you and your family.

Christmas in Atlanta with Kids: Special Holiday Programs in Atlanta Attractions

1. Reindog Parade & Photos with St. Nick @ Atlanta Botanical Garden

It will be too late to register your dogs but you can still enjoy a parade for pups adorned in their finest holiday attire competing for prizes awarded by a panel of celebrity judges, as well as demonstrations and pet-training advice.

You can also take your own free photos with a botanically themed St. Nick amongst a beautiful display of seasonal flowers. Follow the pictures up by viewing the holiday greenery and a trip on the Ride-On-Train!

Place: Atlanta Botanical Garden
Date: Dec 11, 2010 (Sat)
Time: Parade – 11am-1pm; Photos with St. Nick – 10am-4pm
Fee: Free with admission

2. Pictures with Santa and Scuba Clause @ Georgia Aquarium

Enjoy the opportunity to pose for holiday photos with the Christmas legend in the atrium, visitors will also have the chance to come face-to-face with Santa as he dons his SCUBA Claus outfit, plunging into a watery wonderland known as the coral reef exhibit inside the Tropical Diver gallery

Place: Georgia Aquarium
Date: Dec 10-12, 2010 (Fri-Sun)
Time: Fri 11am-4pm; Sat & Sun 11am-5pm; SCUBA Claus 10:30am
Fee: Free with Admission

3. Weeki Wachee Mermaid @ Georgia Aquarium

Enjoy the show from the mermaids of Florida’s Weeki Wachee Springs State Park performing in the 6.3 million gallon Ocean Voyager exhibit alongside the world’s largest fish, whale sharks, the only manta rays in a U.S. aquarium and a plethora of other unique marine species. Swimming at depths of up to 30 feet, the mermaids’ synchronized underwater acts are performed to holiday music while breathing through special air hoses.

Place: Georgia Aquarium
Date: Dec 9-12 (Thu-Sun); Dec 16-22 (Thu-Wed); Dec27-Jan 2 (Mon-Sun)
Time: 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Fee: Free with Admission

4. Holiday Festivities @ The World of Coca-Cola

Experience the Holiday spirits with  the World of Coca-Cola Holiday festivities including capturing the holiday season and get a photo of you with friends and family in a Coca-Cola Santa classic painting by artist Haddon Sundblom or choose from a variety of photo options to commemorate your visit! Learn the fascinating history of Coca-Cola as you journey through the World of Coca-Cola with our Holiday Scavenger Hunt, available in the Lobby. Savor the delicious flavors of the holidays and sample Coca-Cola specialty holiday beverages, Holiday Mint Sprite or Gingerbread Coke at our Sampling Bar in the Taste It!

Share in the spirit of giving this season simply by visiting the World of Coca-Cola. From Dec. 17th – Dec. 19th, the World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta will donate $1.00 from every general admission ticket sold (up to $5,000) during this period to the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

Place: The World of Coca-Cola
Date: Now – Jan 5, 2011
Time: Check website for Holiday operating hours
Fee: Free with admission

5. Santa’s Missing Mail: Holiday Puppet Show @ Atlanta Botanical Garden

Warm up and have a laugh! This all-ages puppet show is an annual tradition sure to delight both kids and adults. The show takes place inside Mershon Hall (Day Hall on December 4). In Santa’s Missing Mail, two dastardly bad guys are out to stop Christmas by stealing Santa’s mail.

Place: Atlanta Botanical Garden
Date: Dec 4-18, 2010 (Every Sat)
Time: 10:30 AM
Fee: Free with Admission

6. A Stone Mountain Christmas @ Stone Mountain Park

The magic of a small town Christmas comes alive as the 1870s town of Crossroads is transformed for this spectacular holiday event. Enjoy the nightly “snowfall”, as well as new live shows, roaming characters, seasonal storytelling, and the nightly grand entrance of Santa Claus and friends. New this year: a nightly Christmas parade and the Wonderland Walkway – a dazzling tunnel guiding guests to the Snow Palace, which serves as the Snow Angel’s new home.

Place: Stone Mountain Park
Date: Check website for hours, which vary widely
Fee: Stone Mountain Christmas tickets Adults $17; Children (3-11) $14; Admission is included on the Mountain Membership. Parking $8 (cash only.)

7. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer @ Center for Puppetry Arts

Experience the timeless tale of Rudolph and friends in a whole new way – LIVE! Artistic Director Jon Ludwig’s faithful adaptation of the classic television special speaks to the misfit in all of us. See more detail information from Field Trips with Sue post

Place: Center for Puppetry Arts
Date: Nov. 18 – Jan. 2, 2010, see website for specific times
Fee: $16 for ages 2 and older

8. Fernbank Winter Wonderland @ Fernbank Museum

Light up the holiday season with a festive tree display decorated by local community partners and Consulate offices. Fernbank’s first annual Winter Wonderland features more than 20 trees that twinkle with lights, and shine with a variety of cultural ornaments and emblems celebrating the diversity of groups, traditions, holidays, and events around the world.

Date: Nov 17 – Jan 5, 2011
Fee: Free with Admission

9. Holiday Train @ Imagine It! Children Museum

The North Georgia Tin Plate Trackers will be displaying winter snow scenes and button-operated animated holiday accessories surrounded by running toy trains.  The layout will delight and entertain children of all ages.  Every module of the set up has push-buttons which allow spectators to operate various model railroad accessories such as crossing gates, beacon towers, handcars, and trolleys.

Date: Dec 4-12, 2010
Fee: Free with Admission

10. A Muppet Family Christmas @ Center for Puppetry Arts

Center for Puppetry Arts members are invited to a zany holiday celebration as Fozzie Bear and all his show-biz pals head to the country to spend Christmas at Fozzie’s Mom’s farm house! With snow falling outside and more friends dropping by, something magical happens. The sparkle of the stage lights up the farm house as the Muppets share their gifts of music, a play, and of course, Fozzie’s stand-up comedy act!

Date: Dec 11, 2010 (Sat) @ 7pm
Fee: Free with Admission (members only event)

Don’t miss out on Fun events around Atlanta. Subscribe to Atlanta With Kid’s RSS feed.

Atlanta Things To Do

Christmas Fun 2010: Amazing Homes with Christmas Lights Shows Around Atlanta

Christmas Lights Show Atlanta - Cumming

Thank you for visiting Atlanta With Kid. Please check out our latest Guide to Christmas Lights in Atlanta for 2011. These amazing homes have Christmas Lights dance to synchronized music.

One of the most popular post here in Atlanta With Kid during the holiday season apart from Photos with Santa and Christmas Tree Lighting is the Spectacular Homes with Christmas Lights and Musical Synchronize Shows.

This year, I have updated the list with as  much information I can find. Some of the houses from last year are no longer putting up the light and we also have a couple new houses. So here it’s the 2010 list.

Christmas 2010: Amazing Homes with Christmas Lights with Musical Synchronize Show

1. Christmas in Cumming

Going into their 3rd year of Christmas Spectacular, Larry & Lorraine – the original Redneck Christmas house have put together a wonderful lighting display of 4 houses with over 110,000 lights. We went there yesterday and it was AMAZING!

All donations benefit Forsyth County Family Haven

Place: Haley Farms Subdivision, Bryn Ridge Court, Cumming, GA
Date: Nov 25th – Jan 1st
Showtime: Monday-Thursday 5:30 – 9:00, Friday-Sunday 5:30-10:00
Direction: Off Pisgah Rd. in the Haley Farms sub division.
Radio Channel: 88.1 FM
Website: Christmas in Cumming Georgia

2. Mint Julep Christmas in Alpharetta

Winner of Roswell,GA/Georgia Power’s 2008 Holiday Decorating Contest. This year 2010 – 43000 lights planned using 128 Channels of Light-O-Rama computerized controllers. Listen to the Lights on your car radio at 88.3 FM.

Free display but donations are graciously accepted and ALL funds go to the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta – Sibley Heart Center

Place: 311 Julep Ct., Alpharetta, GA, 30009 Located in the Fairfax Subdivision off Rucker Rd.
Date: Nov 25 – Jan 3
Showtime: 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Radio Channel: 88.3 FM

3. Christmas at the Stack’s in Alpharetta

Holiday display featuring 75,000 lights snycronized to music broadcasted directly to your car radio.

Collecting donations benefiting Children’s Helathcare of Atlanta.

Place: 811 Locust Grove Ct, Alpharetta, GA, 30004
Date: Nov 25th – Jan 2nd
Showtime: Sun – Thur: 5:30 – 10pm, Fri – Sat: 5:30 – 11pm
Radio Channel: ??
Website: Christmas at the Stack’s

4. Holiday Automation in Lawrenceville

With 20,000 lights synchronized to music over 190 channels, this house even allows you to control the lights via the website. And if you can’t view it in person, you can view it online. But personally, it’s the experience in person that makes it fun.

Place: 391 Radner Run, Lawrenceville, GA
Date: Nov 22 – Jan 1
Showtime: 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Radio Channel: 89.7 FM
Website: Holiday Automation

5. Meckley Family Xmas in Kennesaw

What happen when you put a competitive person with OCD to the Christmas Lights Display contest in the neighborhood? You get one amazing, spectacular house with approximately 30,000 lights and a great musical Christmas Light show to boost.

Place: 4291 Edgewater Dr, Kennesaw, GA 30144
Showtime: Sun-Thu 5:30pm-9:00pm, Fri-Sat 5:30pm-10:00pm
Radio Channel: 88.3 FM
Website: Meckley Family Xmas

6. Holly Springs Lights in Canton

With 10,000 lights, 64 animated display and 2 inflatable display, kids will enjoy this fabulous show in Canton on their second year on this Christmas Lights Show.

Place: 600 Spring Mill Court, Taylor’s Farm, Canton, GA
Date: Dec 1 – Dec 31
Showtime: Sun – Thur: 6 – 10pm, Fri – Sat: 6 – 11pm
Radio Channel: ??
Website: Facebook account at Holly Springs Lights

7. The Berry Christmas Light Show in Gainesville

Please come see our Christmas Light Display which features over 10,000 lights, synchronized to music.  Our display grows each year with new songs and an occasional song from the previous year.  You can sit in your car and enjoy the music on your radio…just tune to 107.7 FM.

Place: 3690 Vinyard Way, Lawrenceville, Ga 30044

Date: Thanksgiving – Jan 1
Showtimes: Sun-Thur: 6-9pm   Fri-Sat: 6-11pm
Radio Channel: 107.7 FM

8. The Knapps Vinyard Christmas Light Show in Lawrenceville *NEW*

We have a little light show we created this year. We have 10,000 lights. Daily showings 6pm-10pm unless severe weather.

Place: 3690 Vinyard Way, Lawrenceville, GA 30044
Date: Till Jan 8
Showtimes: Daily: 6-10pm
Radio Channel: 91.7 FM

9. Saddle Creek Christmas Light Show In Roswell *NEW*

Enjoy another Christmas Light show at the northern suburb in Roswell by the Lee!

Place: 385 Saddle Creek Drive, Roswell GA 30076
Date: Now through Jan 2
Showtimes: 5:45pm until 9:30pm (10pm on weekends)
Radio Channel: 107.3 FM

10. Blink Midwinter in Cumming * NEW *

Enjoy this holiday spectacular show of synchonized Christmas Lights Show to the tune of

  • Jingle Bells – Denver and the Mile High Orchestra
  • Siberian Sleigh Ride – TSO
  • Music Box Dancer – DJ Schwede
  • Joy To The World – Go Fish

Place: Glenbrooke Subdivision, Heardsville Road, Cumming, GA
Date: Everyday through Jan 3th
Showtime: Sun-Thu 5:30pm-10:00pm, Fri-Sat 5:30pm-11:00pm
Direction: Make your way to the intersection of GA 20 and SR 371 (Post Road/Tribble Road).  Turn north onto Tribble and go 1 mile to Watson.  Make a left and go to the stop.  Make a right onto Heardsville Road.  Glenbrooke is about 0.6 miles on your left.  Make the first left in the subdivision then make a right at the 4 way stop.  Cole Court is on your right.  We’re at the house with the blinky lights.
Radio Channel: 92.7 FM
Website: Blink Midwinter

10. Sound of Lights in Douglasville *NEW*

Enjoy the fifth Annual Christmas Light Display from Sound of Lights at their new location with approximately 60,000 lights synchronized to Christmas music.
They are an Official Collection Site for Toys for Tots in the Atlanta Area. When you come by to see the lights, be sure to bring an unwrapped, new toy and place it in the collection box.

Place: 3299 Spreading Oak Drive in Douglasville, GA 30135
Date: Now through thru January 6, 2011
Showtimes: 5:30 PM till 9:30 PM weeknights and until 10:00 PM on the weekends.
Radio Channel: 99.1 FM

If you know of any houses in your neighborhood in this caliber, please leave me a comment or email me. I would love to add that to my list.

Don’t miss out on Fun events around Atlanta. Subscribe to Atlanta With Kid’s RSS feed.

Atlanta Things To Do

Holiday Fun: Top 10 Family Friendly Ways to Enjoy Christmas & Holiday Season in Atlanta

Atlanta Holiday Christmas With Kids

There are many things to do in Atlanta with your family all year round. But it’s especially special during the Holiday Season and Christmas. Thanks to my friend from Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau who provides us with a great list of ways to create meaningful memories for families in Atlanta without breaking a budget.

Here are Top 10 Family-Friendly Ways to Enjoy Christmas & Holiday Season in Atlanta

1. The Nutcracker

The famed Holiday ballet continues to deliver year after year.  For many families, it’s not Christmas without a trip to the Fabulous Fox Theatre for The Nutcracker, performed by the Atlanta Ballet—the oldest continually operating ballet company in the country.  Make up for cuts in school art programs by exposing them to a wonderful holiday tradition.

2. Christmas via Puppet

Instead of watching the old claymation version of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, why not watch it live?  The Center for Puppetry Arts is the largest museum in the country dedicated to the art of puppets.  The museum will have live shows based on the Christmas Special starting November 18.

3. Pink Pig

Kids need a little recess every now and then.  That’s where the Pink Pig comes in.  There aren’t many places where a pig symbolizes Christmas, but in Atlanta it wouldn’t be Christmas without a ride on the Pink Pig.  The kid friendly roller coaster has been delighting families at the Macy’s store at Lenox Square since the 50’s.

4. Ice Skating

Like P.E. or playing on a sports team, there’s nothing like bonding over a little physical activity.  There are a number of places to take the family ice skating in downtown Atlanta, including the St. Regis hotel and Centennial Olympic Park.

5. A Tree to Remember

“Yes son, that’s a real tree.”  Imagine a 60 foot tree glowing with thousands of tiny lights.  You can see Atlanta’s very own giant Christmas tree at Lenox Square Mall.  They flip the switch Thanksgiving night.

6. Snow Mountain

How about science?  Learn how snow is made (and play in it too).  For the third year, Stone Mountain is turned into Snow Mountain, where families can play in 240 tons of the white fluffy stuff.  USA Today called it “a perfect day for a girl from below the Mason-Dixon line.”  Go tubing, try your hand in the Snowball Shooting Gallery, or get warm around the campfire while scarfing down S’mores.  Snow Mountain opens December 11.

7. Gone to the Dogs

Don we now our Fido attire!  It’s the 3rd annual Reindog Parade.  Take your best friend to the Atlanta Botanical Garden for a day of fun including a Doggie expo and warm refreshments.  December 11 is the only day the Atlanta Botanical Garden is open to dogs.

8. Tea with Santa

Stay warm with afternoon tea at the Ritz-Carlton.  Who better way to throw this party than Santa Clause?  He’ll be there along with the Dickens singers to keep “Bah! Humbug!” at bay.

9. Feast on Gingerbread

The culinary arts are on display at the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, where some of Atlanta’s best chefs create a delicious world.  The Gingerbread Village is only up for 12 days, so you’d better hurry to see it.  Then on December 12, you can buy one of the Gingerbread houses to take home.

10. See the World

Learn about Holiday traditions from around the globe at Fernbank Museum of Natural History.  Their “Winter Wonderland: Celebrations and Traditions Around the World” starts November 17.

Halloween Fun 2010: Trick-Or-Treat in the Malls Around Atlanta With Kids

Halloween

When I live in Florida, our hunting ground for Halloween is actually the Mall. It was nice and cool plus no bugs for kids. So if you don’t have a great neighborhood that you want to walk or just simply wanna go to the mall, check out Halloween Fun: Trick-or-Treat in the Malls around Atlanta.

Please note that most malls will not allow costume with mask or toy weapon for safety reason.


SUPERMAN RETURNS MOVIE COSTUMES

Northlake Mall
For an easy trick-or-treat in a mall, head out to Northlake Mall to gather up all those candies from the participating stores. Stop by the guest service to get the list or just wandering around.

Place: Northlake Mall, 4800 Briarcliff Rd., Atlanta GA
Date: October 30 (Sat)
Time: 5pm-7pm
Cost: FREE

Atlantic Station
Join Atlantic Station celebrates 2nd annual Howl-o-Ween Fall Festival – an event that will be fun for the whole family – including the family pet!

The free event includes party in Central Park hosted by Radio Disney and Midtown Bridge featuring make and take crafts, carnival activities and face painting, Kiddie Costume Contest at 4 pm. and participating retailers will offer trick-or-treating from 5 – 6 pm.

Place: Atlantic Station, Atlanta GA
Date: October 30 (Sat)
Time: 1pm-6pm
Cost: FREE

Town Center at Cobb
Town Center’s annual Boo Bash involves fun interactive booths, a costume parade and of course , tons of candy. Sponsored by Radio Disney. Event will be in center court and if the weather permits outside the main food court entrance.

Place: Town Center at Cobb, 400 Barrett Pkwy, Kennesaw, GA
Date: October 30 (Sat)
Time: 5pm-8pm
Cost: FREE for Kidgit Club member, $5 to become a member

The Avenue East Cobb
Join the Avenue East Cobb for center-wide trick or treating, complimentary entertainment, stilt walkers, face painting, balloon art and more at The Avenue. Come in costume and bring your pet for a festive family photo.

Place: The Avenue East Cobb, 4475 Roswell Road, Marietta, GA
Date: October 30 (Sat)
Time: 3pm-5pm
Cost: FREE

The Avenue West Cobb
Join the Avenue West Cobb for center-wide trick or treating, complimentary entertainment, stilt walkers, face painting, balloon art and more at The Avenue. Come in costume and bring your pet for a festive family photo.

Place: The Avenue West Cobb, 3625 Dallas Highway, Marietta, GA
Date: October 30 (Sat)
Time: 3pm-5pm
Cost: FREE

Discover Mills
Join Discover Mills for Halloween Festivities. It will be a Ghoulishly Good Time! Schedule is as follows: Simon Kidgits Club Halloween Bash from 4-6pm in the food court. Radio Disney “Walk the Stage” Costume parade from 4-6pm in the food court for ages 0-12. Mall wide Trick-O-Treat from 5-8pm. Participating stores will have a pumpkin in their window.

Place: Discover Mills, 5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Lawrenceville, GA
Date: October 30th (Sat)
Time: 5pm-9pm
Cost: FREE for Kidgit Club member, $5 to become a member

The Avenue Peachtree City
Join the Avenue Peachtree City for center-wide trick or treating, complimentary entertainment, stilt walkers, face painting, balloon art and more at The Avenue. Come in costume and bring your pet for a festive family photo.

Place: The Avenue Peachtree City, 239 City Circle, Peachtree City GA
Date: October 30 (Sat)
Time: 3pm-5pm
Cost: FREE

North Georgia Premium Outlets
Kids in costumes can enjoy trick-or-treating from participated stores throughout the mall.

Place: North Georgia Premium Outlets, 800 Hwy 400 South, Dawsonville, GA 30534
Date: October 29 (Friday)
Time: 3pm-7pm
Cost: FREE

Halloween Fun 2010: Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Atlanta Favorite Attractions

Oct27_Pumpking carving-32

Thank you for visiting us! This post is for Halloween 2010 events.

Check out the updated Guide to 2011 Halloween Trick-or-Treating and Trunk-or-Treat in Atlanta.

It’s that time of the year again. The time where adults can act out on their fantasy and be anyone they want. The time where kids get to stuff themselves sick with candies.. Here are a look at fun family-friendly Halloween events from Atlanta top attractions to take your kids to trick-or-treat this year.

Atlanta With Kids: Halloween Boo at the Zoo

1) Boo at the Zoo @ Zoo Atlanta

Come explore the magical path, test the sweet treat and meet whimsical characters during the spooktacular family-friendly Halloween festival at the Zoo.  And you might also want to stay overnight and join the Boo at the Zoo Nightcrawlers event.

Boo at the Zoo Info:

Place: Zoo Atlanta, 800 Cherokee Avenue, SE, Atlanta, Georgia 30315
Date: October 23th, 24th, 30th & 31st (Saturday & Sunday)
Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Cost: Free with General Admission
Website: www.zooatl.org

Atlanta With Kids: Halloween Goblin in the Garden

2) Goblins in the Garden @ Atlanta Botanical Garden

Dress your kids up in their favorite costumes and head to the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Enjoy a children’s costume parade, pony rides*, story time, the Ride-on-Train*, tricks, treats and more! (* additional fee) After all the fun, head out to the garden to explore the Scarecrows in the Garden that showcases dozens of scarecrows displayed throughout the Garden along with seasonal decorations.

Goblin in the Garden Info:

Place: Atlanta Botanical Garden, 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Date: October 24th (Sunday)
Time: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Cost: Free with General Admission
Website: www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org

Atlanta With Kids Halloween Georgia Aquarium

3) Georgia A-Scary-Um @ Georgia Aquarium

Join the decked out Aquarium for a fun family-friendly Halloween 2 days events. There will be music, Trick-or-Treat candy stations
throughout the Aquarium, Halloween craft tables and costume contests for guests throughout the day!

Georgia A-Scary-Um Info:

Place: Georgia Aquarium, 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Date: October 29-31 (Friday-Sunday)
Time: Fri & Sun: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, Sat 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Cost: Free with General Admission
Website: www.georgiaaquarium.org
Special Note: FREE ADMISSION! Kids 12 and under in costume will receive free general admission when accompanied by an adult. Offer valid for up to two children in costume per one paid adult or Annual Pass member on Oct. 29-31, 2010.

Atlanta With Kids Halloween High Museum

4) Dali-Ween @ High Museum

Bring kids in costume and they will get free admission. Kids will enjoy listening to spooky stories and making fun craft like fantastical Dalí-Ween mask.

Dali-Ween Info:

Place: High Museum of Arts, 1280 Peachtree Street, N.E., Atlanta, GA 30309
Date: October 31 (Sunday)
Time: 1pm-4pm
Cost: Free with General Admission (Kids in costume get in FREE)
Website: www.high.org

Note: Please double check websites for time, date, schedule and admission fee for accuracy.

Fall Family Fun: 2010 Corn Mazes Around Atlanta

maze09-300
Without a doubt, Fall season is here! The weather is cooler and the fall festivals are rolling out one by one

One of family favorite activity for fall is Corn Maze. And lucky for us that there are so many corn mazes choices for families in Atlanta to choose from.

I have compiled the list of fun corn mazes in the Atlanta metro area. Please let me know if there is any farm that I missed from my list.

Also check out the map at the bottom to find corn maze near your area.

So here are Fun Family-Friendly Corn Mazes Around Metro Atlanta:

1. Southern Belle Farm: A 200-acre working farm in McDonough, Georgia – in the Atlanta metro area. Their specialties are homegrown family fun, fresh produce and wholesome memories! Bring your family and spend the day exploring what ‘Farm Fresh’ really means.

Address: 1658 Turner Church Rd, McDonough, Georgia 30252
Open Date: September 18th
Time: Sat 10:00am-10:00pm, Sun 1:00-6:00pm
Fee: Adult & Kids over 10 – $13, Children (Ages 3-9) – $11, Children (Ages 2 and under) – FREE
Contact: 770-898-0999
Website: www.southernbellefarm.com

2. Corn Dawgs: Check out the Wild West Adventure 2009 at Corn Dawgs Corn Maze and enjoy over 15 attractions that will be fun for the whole family.

Address: Hwy 81, Walnut Grove, GA
Open Date: September 4th
Time: Fri 5:00pm-10:00pm (morning for field trips), Sat 10:00am-10:00pm, Sun 11:00am-7:00pm
Fee: Adult & Kids over 2 – $12, Children (Ages 2 and under) – FREE
Contact: 770-786-9000
Website: www.corndawgs.net

3. Cagle’s Corn MAiZE: Come for the day! Enjoy a farm tour, the MAiZE, play on the jumpee pillow, enjoy some finger-lickin’ good farm food and gather ’round a bonfire with friends! Check website for more detail and coupon.

Address: 355 Stringer Rd., Canton, GA 30115
Open Date: September 4th
Time: Fri 5:00pm-11:00pm, Sat 10:00am-11:00pm, Sun 10:00am-6:00pm
Fee: Everyone – $10, Children (Ages 2 and under) – FREE
Contact: 770-345-5591
Website: www.caglesfamilyfarm.com

4. Uncle Shuck’s: Enjoy 12 acre field of corn with 4 miles of trails that twisting and turning or even coming to a deadend. Make sure to check website for coupon and more details on other fall fun activities.

Address: 4525 Highway 53 E, Dawsonville, GA 30534
Open Date: September 4th
Time: Fri 4:00pm-10:00pm, Sat 10:00am-10:00pm, Sun 10:00am-6:00pm
Fee: Everyone – $9, Children (Ages 3 and under) – FREE
Contact: 770-772-6223
Website: www.uncleshucks.com

5. Buck’s Corn Maze: This 12 acre maze is planted in a 20 acre field next to Cochran Creek with a beautiful view of the Appalachian Mountains. It is more than just a maze!!! It’s GREAT family fun for all ages. Come get “LOST” in the maze. As much fun as the maze is in the daytime, it is double the fun at night. Bring your Flashlight and test your skills in the dark.

Address: 1923 New Hope Rd, Dawsonville, GA 30534
Open Date: September 4th
Time: Fri 5:00pm-9:00pm, Sat 10:00am-9:00pm, Sun 10:00am-6:00pm
Fee: Adult & Kids over 13 – $8, Children (Ages 4-12) – $7, Children (4 and under) – FREE
Contact: 706-344-8834
Website: www.buckscornmaze.com

6. Washington Farm: Check out their new maze design this year highlights Georgia Farming! This year in the maze you’ll work your way through Georgia grown with pumpkins and strawberries design for 45 min. to 1 hr. You may enter the maze by sliding down their 24 ft. slide or you may walk in through the corn! As you wind your way through, make sure you stop at the bridge for a quick photo!

Address: 5691 Hog Mountain Road, Watkinsville, GA 30677
Open Date: October 1st
Time: Tue & Wed: 6:00pm-10:00pm, Fri 3:00pm-11:00pm, Sat 9:00am-11:00pm, Sun 1:00pm-6:00pm
Fee: Everyone over 5 – $12, Children (4 and under) – $8, Everyone (Evening Corn maze only) – $10
Contact: 706-769-0627
Website: www.washingtonfarms.net

7. Connell Farms: Get lost in this 7 acre corn maze during the day or at night with your flashlights. Make sure to print out coupon before head out there for more discount.

Address: Hollonville, GA
Open Date: September 18th
Time: Fri 5:00pm-10:00pm, Sat 2:00pm-10:00pm
Fee: Adult & Kids over 12 – $7, Children (Ages 4-11) – $3.50, Children (Ages 3 and under) – FREE
Contact: 770-229-4096
Website: www.connellfarms.com

8. Carlton Farm: The corn maze field consist of 5 acres with over 2 miles of trail. Inside the maze you will find 12 checkpoints that can lead you through the maze. Inside the maze you will also encounter a bridge that allows you a bird’s eye view of the 5 acre corn maze.

Address: 1276 Cartersville Hwy, Rockmart, Ga 30153
Open Date: September 25th
Time: Fri 6:00pm-10:00pm, Sat 11:00am-10:00pm, Sun 1:00pm-9:00pm
Fee: Everyone – $7
Contact: 770-546-5179
Website: www.carltonfarm.com

9. Jaemor Farm Market: Go experience their farm through “Georgia Grown Adventure” Corn Maze. Navigate the maze while learning fun facts about Georgia’s Agriculture and its impact on Georgia; this place we call home. There are excellent picnic areas for groups or you can visit our on site farmer’s market for some great treats. You can also catch a hayride and tour our farm, pick your own pumpkin, or try your hand at the Apple Slingshot.

Address: 5340 Cornelia Hwy. Alto, GA 30510
Open Date: September 11th
Time: Fri 3:00pm-9:00pm, Sat 10:00am-9:00pm, Sun 1:00pm-6:00pm
Fee: Adult & Kids over 8 – $10, Children (Ages 4-7) – $9, Children (Ages 3 and under) – FREE
Contact: 770-869-3999
Website: www.jamsjellies.com

10. Colonel Cob’s Corn Maze: The seven acre corn field has 2 ½ miles of fun paths plus agricultural facts to direct you through the maze. Also enjoy other attractions that are part of the fee like farm animals, corn cannon, giant mountain slide, inflatable cow jumper and treasure mountain. Don’t forget to check out their website to get coupon for discount.

Address: 797 Macedonia Church Rd. Oxford, Ga. 30054
Open Date: September 17th
Time: Fri 6:00pm-10:00pm, Sat 12:00pm-10:00pm, Sun 1:00pm-5:00pm
Fee: Everyone – $8, Children (3 and under) – FREE
Contact: 770-855-1530
Website: www.colcobscornmaze.com

11. Yahoo Farm: This small farm north of Atlanta has more than just a corn maze. There are other fun activities for the whole family from corn cannon, fossil grubbin, hay rides and cosmic corn maze. Don’t forget to check out their website to get coupon for discount.

Address: 4729 Waleska Highway 108, jasper, GA 30143
Open Date: September 19th
Time: Daily 10:00am-6:00pm
Fee: Corn maze day time – $4, Corn maze night time – $5
Contact: 770-735-3638
Website: www.yahoofarm.com


View Family Fun: Corn Maze Around Atlanta in a larger map

Don’t miss out on Fun events around Atlanta. Subscribe to Atlanta With Kid’s RSS feed.

FREE Family Fun: Dragon*Con Parade 2010 With Kids in Atlanta

Dragon*Con Parade 2010 Atlanta DragonCon Dragon Con

Labor day weekend in Atlanta is quite busy with many fun family friendly events and festivals all around town. One of the biggest event in downtown Atlanta this weekend is the Annual Dragon*Con convention. It’s the ultimate event for all things Sci-fi and Fantasy.

I have no shame in admitting that we are a big fan of Sci-fi and Fantasy. My husband grew up with Star Wars and Star Trek and now my son follows suite with his own love in Star Wars The Clone War. I, myself, love Harry Porter and Fantasy novels. So a chance to see all our characters come to life and march along the Peachtree Street in downtown Atlanta is one that we won’t miss!

See what last year Dragon*Con Parade looked like from Field Trips With Sue post and don’t forget to check out their comments for recommendation on parking and restaurants that family.

Dragon*Con Parade Route 2010

The Dragon*Con parade route will start from Woodruff Park on Peachtree Street NW and continue North on Peachtree Street NW to Baker Street NE and take a final turn onto Courtland Street to conclude at the Atlanta Mariott Maquis’ back entrance.

View Larger Map

Family Tips For DragonCon Parade 2010:

  • Get there early to secure a spot where kids can have the view of all the parade.
  • There are many parking lots all around the area near the parade route. But if you live in town, MARTA might be better option. Kids will enjoy the train ride as well.
  • The parade participants are in costume and love to interact with the observers. Small kids might feel a bit overwhelmed so be ready for a squirm and scream.
  • After the parade, you can walk around and see more costumers in the area. There are plenty of food options. But you can also pack your lunch and picnic at the Centennial Olympic Park.
  • Enjoy!

Dragon*Con Parade 2010 Information:

Place: Annual Dragon*Con Parade, Downtown Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
Date: September 4, 2010
Time: Start at 10AM
Cost: FREE

Don’t miss out on Fun events around Atlanta. Subscribe to Atlanta With Kid’s RSS feed.

Fun Budget Friendly Things to Do with Kids in Gwinnett County

Kids can be expensive, so it is so important to find free or cheap things to do with them! Gwinnett County has a plethora of great places to take kids. I have a three year old and we seem to find something every day that is fun and cheap to do. Here is a list of some of my favorite places.

Gwinnett County Parks

Cost: Free

There are so many great parks in Gwinnett County. Gary Pirkle Park is an awesome park. It is covered and has fans to help keep it cool. McDaniel Farm Park is also very neat. It is restored to depict a typical 1930′s farm in Gwinnett County. When you are there you can visit a furnished farmhouse, barn, blacksmith shed, carriage house, tenant house. They offer tours and there is a pavilion to eat lunch and paved trails.

Tour of Gwinnett Braves Stadium

Cost: Free

The Gwinnett Braves offer tours of their stadium. They will show you the dugouts, the visiting team locker room, suites, and walk you around the field. It is a lot of fun. You do have to fill out a form and fax it to them to get a tour. (Please note that this is based on availability and they may not be able to accommodate you).

One Braves Avenue
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
678-277-0300

Dacula Briar Patch

Cost: Free to visit. Cost will depend on what you purchase, but is very reasonable.

This is a neat little farm at someone’s home. There are tons of different fruits and vegetables to pick. Depending on what time of year, they have pecans, muscadines, apples, okra, tomatoes, blueberries, blackberries, peppers, etc.

2503 Cammie Wages Rd
Dacula, GA 30019
770-962-4990

Mayfield Dairy Farm

Cost: Tour is Free, Bring money for ice cream

They do tours every 30 minutes at Mayfield Dairy Farm. They do not do tours on Wednesday because there is no milk production. You watch a short video and then they show you how milk is processed. The tour lasts about 45 minutes. After the tour, you can purchase some yummy ice cream. There is also a small green area for the kids to run around or you could have a picnic there.

Georgia Dance Unlimited

Cost: Depends on what class you take, but they start at $24 a month.

This is a great dance studio that holds the classes at different Gwinnett County Parks. They offer dance classes starting at age 2. Classes are very reasonably priced. They start at just $24 a month, with no registration fee and no contract. They offer mommy and me ballet, ballet, tap, jazz, and hip hop.

Rita’s Downtown Lawrenceville

Cost: Free kid’s cone

My daughter and I enjoy going to Rita’s in downtown Lawrenceville. They give free kids cones! After we get our cone we walk across the street and she runs around in the fenced in area by the gazebo. Not only do we get to enjoy a refreshing treat, she also gets to run some off some energy.

Jasmin Queen is the owner of Hands-On Learning – the award winner of Best School Field Trip in Gwinnett Magazine 2009. Hands-On Learning offers schools “An Interactive Educational Experience” by providing educational programs (in-school field trips) to public and private schools in Gwinnett and surrounding counties. To learn more about what fun, educational and affordable field trip they can provide, check out their website at www.HOLearning.com.