August Calendar

classes

Home Depot Kids’ Workshop. All locations. Learn tool safety while building a craft and receive a kid-sized orange apron. First Saturday of each month 9 a.m.-noon. homedepot.com. Ages 5-12. Free.
Lil’ Bean Heads Crafts. Bean Head Toys. Create an art project twice a month. All ages welcome, but smaller children may need assistance. First and third Wednesday of every month. 3-4 p.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-2980. Free.
Mommy and Me Preschool Program. Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History. Aug. 2, School Days, School Days; Aug. 9, Rainbows All Around Us; Aug. 16, All About Me; Aug. 23, Way to Go!; Aug. 30, I Spy Shapes; 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117. Ages 3-5. Free with museum admission. Adults, $7.50; children 4-12, $5.50; 3 and younger, free.
Drop-In Family Class: A Honeybee’s Life. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Learn about honeybees that live in the garden. Kids make art projects. Aug. 11. 11 a.m.-noon. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. $6 plus admission; Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; 2 and younger, free.
The Gardener is In! Chattahoochee Nature Center. Take a tour of the Unity Garden, chat with the garden coordinator, learn some gardening tips. All ages. Sat. Aug. 4. 10 a.m.-noon. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. Class is free with admission. Adults, $8; ages 3-12, $5; 2 and younger, free.
Toddler Thursdays. High Museum of Art. Create masterpieces to complement the museum’s current exhibits. Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4550. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.
Art Workshops. Vinings School of Art. Take a drawing, painting or pottery class. Supplies included. Ages 2-13. Saturdays, 10 and 11 a.m. 1675 Cumberland Pkwy., Smyrna. 678-213-4278. Pre-register. $15 for one-hour workshop.
Crafts for Kids. Lakeshore Learning Store. Make a different craft each week. Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 4287 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-578-3100. 3 and older. Free.
INK Craft Weeks. Interactive Neighborhood for Kids. Wiggle Your Toes, August 1-3; Friendship Craft, Aug. 6-10; Home School Craft, Aug. 7; Aviation Craft, Aug 13-17; Tooth Fairy Craft, Aug. 20-24; Happy Birthday INK, Aug. 27-31; $1 with paid admission to museum. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., 1-5 p.m. 999 Chestnut St., Gainesville. 770-536-1900. Adults, $8; children, $6.
Build and Grow Clinics. Lowes. Clinics teach kids to build wooden crafts. Kids receive a free apron, goggles and merit patch. Sat. and Sun., Aug. 11, 12, 25, 26. Saturdays 10 a.m., Sundays 2 p.m. Visit lowesbuildandgrow.com for locations. 800-445-6937. Pre-register. Free.
EnviroVentures Saturday Drop-By. Piedmont Park. Hula-hooping and crafts while parents shop at the Green Market. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 1320 Monroe Drive, Atlanta. 404-875-7275. Free.
Second Thursday Program. Southeastern Railway Museum. Parents and tots program includes circle time, an activity, and craft. Ages 1-4. Aug. 9. 10:30 a.m.-noon. 3595 Buford Hwy, Duluth. 770-495-0253. $7 per child, one adult free, additional adult, $8.
Artscape! East Cobb Park. Sign up for art history and art sessions for children ages 5-10 years old. Aug. 8. 9-10 a.m. Register now. 3322 Roswell Rd. Marietta. 770-591-3160. $15 per class.
Weekends in the Naturalist Center. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Activities include animal encounters, science explorations and more. Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-929-6400. Activities included with price of admission. Adults, $17.50; children 3-12, $15.50; younger than 3, free.
Garden Art! Oakhurst Garden. Kids will get a chance to turn plain rocks into garden treasures. Wear clothes that can get dirty, fresh apples provided for snacks. Great for ages 6-12. Pre-register. Wed., Aug. 22, 4:15-5:30 p.m. 435 Oakview Rd., Decatur. 404-371-1920. $15.

exhibits

Hubble Exhibit. Tellus Science Museum. See huge images from space thanks to the Hubble space telescope. Includes images of galaxies, exploding stars, stars being born, even some planets. Through Nov.11. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 100 Tellus Dr., Cartersville. 770-606-5700. Adults, $12; ages 3-17, $8.
Crime Lab Detective Exhibit. Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. Visitors can be the real Sherlock Holmes as they examine clues such as DNA. Through Oct. 15, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr. Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults 13 and older, $10.50; ages 3-12, $6.50.
Dolphin Tales. Georgia Aquarium. The live show incorporates dolphins, live human actors, dramatic costuming, and special effects. Multiple shows per day, times vary. Reservations recommended. Sun.-Mon., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Admission price depends on date of visit; Adults, $34.95; ages 3-12, $28.95.
Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit. Atlantic Station. Travel back in time and experience the wonder and tragedy of this ill-fated ship. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-6 p.m.(last ticket sold at 5 p.m.); Fri.-Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m. (last ticket sold at 6 p.m.). 265 18th St. (second floor), Atlanta. 866-866-8265. Adults, $24; Ages 4-12, $16.
Anne Frank in the World: 1929-1945. Parkside Shopping Center. Learn about the life of the Frank family and others who lived in the secret annex in Amsterdam; includes replica of Anne’s room in the annex. Tues.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 12-4 p.m. 5920 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs. 770-206-1558. 10 and older. Free.
Turtle Tours. Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Through stories, hands-on exhibits and crafts, museum mascots Sandy the chipmunk and Spring the turtle introduce the youngest visitors to history. Through Dec. Second Saturday of each month. 11 a.m. 6075 Sandy Springs Circle, Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Donations encouraged.
The Scoop on Poop. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Fish do it, frogs do it, pythons, turtles and humans do it. A hands-on, humorous exhibit about dung, poop and scat. Through Sept. 3. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. Adults, $17.50; ages 3-12, $15.50; 2 and younger, free.
The Big Adventure. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Kids climb a rock wall and move through dark tunnels in this new exhibit that’s like a 3-D game board. Through Sept. 9. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 2 and older, $12.75; younger than 2, free. Free admission starting at 1 p.m. on the second Tuesday of every month brought to you by Target Free Second Tuesday.
Frogs: A Chorus of Colors. Georgia Aquarium. Features 15 species of frogs in more than 3,000 square feet of habitats, with hands-on and interactive activities. Through Jan. 2013. Sun.-Mon., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tues.-Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 225 Baker St., Atlanta. 404-581-4000. Admission price depends on date of visit; Adults, $34.95; ages 3-12, $28.95.
Skate It or Hang It!? The Evolution of Skateboard Art. Museum of Design Atlanta. An exhibit that examines the visual expression in skateboard art. Through Sept. 16. Tues.- Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1315 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-979-6455. Adults, $10; ages 6-17, $5; 5 and younger, free.
Troublesome Times: Impact of the Civil War in Roswell. Barrington Hall. Through the use of letters, official documents and photographs, this exhibit explores the effect of the Civil War on the lives of those with connections to the Roswell area. Through Oct. 31. Tours start on the hour from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 535 Barrington Dr., Roswell. 770-640-3855. Adults, $8; ages 6-13, $6.
Doodle 4 Google Exhibition. Museum of Design Atlanta. This exhibit showcases the designs of ten state finalists who are competing in Google’s student contest for the chance to redesign the homepage logo. Through Aug. 9. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1315 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-979-6455. Adults, $10; ages 6-17, $5; 5 and younger, free. 
LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Phipps Plaza. Come play, build and look at a variety of spectacular LEGO exhibits that will have all LEGO lovers amazed. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.- 9 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Last admission is 2 hours before closing. 3500 Peachtree Rd., Atlanta. 404-848-9252. Adult, $20.52; ages 3-12, $16.20, 2 and younger, free.
Jim Henson Special Exhibitions. Center for Puppetry Arts. This long term exhibit profiles the life of Jim Henson and his most famous puppet, Kermit the Frog. Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Sat.; 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. Museum admission, $8.25. Free admission Thursdays from 1-3 p.m.
Quarry Exhibit at Stone Mountain. Stone Mountain Park. This outdoor display was developed to tell the story of an industry that played a significant part in the history of Stone Mountain. Mon.-Sun., dawn to dusk. 770-498-5690. U.S. Hwy 78 E., Stone Mountain. Free. Parking, $10.
Permanent Exhibit. Jimmy Carter Library and Museum. View photographs and historic memorabilia from the Carter presidency. An exact replica of the Oval Office and gifts received by the Carters are featured. Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-4:45 p.m., Sun. noon-4:45 p.m. 441 Freedom Pkwy., Atlanta. 404-865-7100. Adults, $8; 16 and younger, free.

movies

Dream Big Wednesday Movies. Morrow Branch Library. Enjoy a family movie every Wednesday on a big screen as part of our “Dream Big, Read” Summer Reading Program. Bring snacks and drinks. Pre-register. Movies begin at 3 p.m. Aug. 1, Up; Aug. 8, Rango. 16225 Maddox Rd., Morrow. 404-366-7749. Free.
Atlantic Station: Movies in Central Park. Movies start at sundown every Thursday. Aug, 2, The Notebook; Aug. 9, Ferris Bueller; Aug. 16, The Blind Side; Aug. 23,  HUgo. 1380 Atlantic Dr., Atlanta; 404-733-1221. Free.
Carmike Cinemas Movies 400. Movies begin at 10 a.m. every Tues. and Thurs. through Aug. 9. Aug 2, Monsters vs. Aliens; Aug. 7 and 9, Megamind. 415 Atlanta Rd., Cumming. 678-513-4400.
B at the Movies. Hobgood Park. Bring blankets and lawn chairs to watch a movie under the stars. Aug. 4, Mirror, Mirror. 6680 Bells Ferry Rd., Woodstock.
Johns Creek: Newton Park. Movie lineup to be announced one week before each show. Shows start at dusk with pre-show activities that start two hours before the movie. Activities include giant slide, face painting, giveaways and entertainment. Aug. 4. 3150 Old Alabama Rd., Johns Creek. 678-512-3200. Free.
Milton: Movies in the Park. Activities include face painting, inflatables, children’s activities, “Loveys FunTastic Kids Show,” local vendors and concessions at 7:30 p.m. Movie begins at sundown. Aug. 4, Movie TBA. 12805 Birmingham Highway, Alpharetta. 678-242-2530. Free.
Duluth: Flicks on the Bricks. Movie begins at dusk. Pre show activities start at 7 p.m. Aug. 11, Mama Mia. 3142 Hill Street, Duluth. 770-476-3434. Free
Stone Mountain: Movies on Main. Movies begin at sundown. Pre festivities start at 7:30 p.m. Aug 11, Mr. Popper’s Penguins. 922 Main Street, Stone Mountain. 770-498-7334. Free.
Movies at Riverside Park. Bring a picnic along with your lawn chairs and blankets, enjoy great music, play on the playgrounds, then settle in for movie fun. Food and drinks may be purchased at the concession stand. Movies begin at dark. Aug. 11, Dr, Seuss’ The Lorax. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-641-3705. Free.
Carl Rhodenizer Recreation Center: Movies Under the Stars. During the summer each movie is at a different park in Clayton County. Movie starts at 9:00 p.m. Aug. 11, Toy Story 3. 2300 Highway 138 SE, Jonesboro. 770-472-7623. Free.
B at the Movies. Candler Park. Get situated with blankets, lawn chairs and prepare to watch a movie on the giant inflatable movie screen. Aug, 25, Hugo. 1500 McLendon Ave., Atlanta.
Born to be Wild. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Venture to the rainforests of Borneo and watch extraordinary people save and raise orphaned and endangered orangutans and elephants. Through Sept. 3. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 4, p.m.; Sun., noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m.; Fri. 7 p.m., 9 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free.
To the Arctic. Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Discover a world beneath the ice. Through Sept. 3. Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m.; Sun., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m. 767 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-929-6300. IMAX tickets: adults, $13; ages 3-12, $11; 2 and younger, free.

music

Pickin’ on the Square. Newnan. Acoustic musicians of all genres and skill levels are welcome to join in on the first and third Saturday of every month. 11 a.m. on Aug. 4 and 18. Newnan Courthouse Square at LaGrange St. and E. Broad St. 770-253-8283. Free.
Riverside Sounds. Riverside Park. Outdoor concert series in the park.; Brandon Giles Band, Aug. 4; The Black Lillies, Sept. 1. Concerts from 7-9 p.m. Free shuttle available from Azalea Park and Don White Park. 575 Riverside Rd., Roswell. 770-641-3705. Free.
Concerts by the Spring. Heritage Green. The GLOW Band, Aug 5. Bring picnic baskets, coolers and blankets. Smoking and pets prohibited. Lawn opens at 5 p.m., concerts from 7-8:30 p.m. 6110 Bluestone Rd., Sandy Springs. 404-851-9111. Free.
Music at Noon. Centennial Olympic Park. Enjoy lunch and live music performed by local artists. Tues. and Thurs. through Oct. Concerts from noon-1 p.m., 265 Park Avenue West, Atlanta. 404-223-4412. Free.
Wednesday Wind Down. Centennial Olympic Park. Concert series includes jazz, R&B and blues performed by local and national touring acts. Ronnie Garrett Band, Aug. 1; The 6:30 Band, Aug. 8; Shayla, Shamora, Aug. 15; Marcus Johnson, Aug. 22; Daniel Moore, Seven, Aug. 29. Wednesdays through Sept. Concerts from 5:30-8 p.m., 265 Park Ave. West, Atlanta. 404-223-4412. Free.
Wednesday Wind Down. Douglasville. Concert series with various types of jazz and blues music. Bring lawn chairs and picnics. Wednesdays, through Aug. 8. Concerts at 7 p.m. O’Neal Plaza 6695 Church St., Douglasville. 770-947-5920. Free.
Mountain Music Series. Red Top Mountain State Park. Various artists perform bluegrass and mountain music on Saturdays through Sept. 1. Bring your own instrument or just come to listen. Open jam runs from 2-5 p.m. Bluegrass concerts begin at 8 p.m. 50 Lodge Rd., Cartersville. 770-975-0055. Parking, $5.
Friday Night Live. Atlantic Station. Up-and-coming artists perform on the stage in Central Park; genres range from country to rock, jazz to blues. Through Nov. 23. Concerts are from 7-9 p.m. 18th St. NW., Atlanta. 404-733-1221. Free.
Brown Bag Concert Series. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. Scott Douglas Steel Drum, Aug. 3. Includes crafts and face painting. Pack a lunch and bring a picnic blanket. Concerts 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 185 East Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 770-822-5450. Free.
Glover Park Concert Series. Glover Park, Marietta. Yacht Rock Schooner, Aug 24. Concerts begin at 8 p.m. Picnics, blankets and lawn chairs may be set up after 4 p.m. 50 Park Sq., Marietta. 770-794-5601. Free.
Moonlight and Music Concert Series. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse Lawn. Abbey Road Live (Beatles tribute band) Aug 24. Concerts at 8 p.m. Bring chairs, blankets and food. Alcohol is prohibited. 185 Crogan St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-2639. Free.
Concerts in the Park. Thrasher Park. Moby Dick, Aug 3; A-town, A-List, Aug 17; A1A (Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band), Aug 31. Concerts every other Friday from 7:30-9:30 p.m.. Playground adjacent to concert area. Picnic dinners permitted. Corner of Buchanan St. and Park Dr., Norcross. 678-421-2025. Free.
Summer Concert Series. Village Green in Smyrna. Aug. 4. 7 p.m. Bring friends, chairs and blankets. 200 Village Green Circle. Smyrna. 770-434-6600. Free.

nature

Canoeing 101. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Learn the basics of canoeing on the CNC’s ponds. Ages 5 and older. Aug. 5. 10-11:30 a.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055 ext. 237 to pre-register. $15 per person.
Ranger-led Mountain Hike. Panola Mountain State Park. See wildlife and learn about this important ecosystem. Saturdays at 10 a.m. 2600 Ga. Hwy. 155, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. $7/person; parking, $5.
Saturday Afternoon Fly Fishing. Panola Mountain State Park. This clinic focuses on casting and all safety issues. Bring snacks, sunscreen, and water. A Georgia fishing license is required for children 16 and older. Aug. 11. 9-11 a.m. 2600 Hwy. 155, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. $15 or $12 with own gear. parking, $5.
Frog Slog. Panola Mountain Park. Search for salamanders and frogs in the streams and wetlands. Bring a flashlight, headlamp, net and bucket. Prepare for a wet and muddy adventure. Aug. 4. 5:30 p.m. 2600 Hwy. 155, Stockbridge. 770-389-7801. Pre-register. $5 per person; parking, $5.
Kiddie Gardener Series. Smith-Gilbert Gardens. Kids can walk through the gardens, listen to storytelling, sing and dance at this special nature event for families. Ages 5 and younger. Aug. 10 and 24. 10 a.m. 2382 Pine Mountain Rd., Kennesaw. 770-919-0248. Kids, $5; adults, free.
Night Hike. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Explore the woodlands and wetlands by moonlight, then roast marshmallows by the campfire. Ages 5 and older. Aug. 25. 8-10 p.m. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055. $10/person plus admission. Adults, $8; ages 3-12, $5; 2 and younger, free.
The Sky Tonight. Fernbank Science Center. An astronomer leads the tour through the constellations, planets and events of the evening sky. Saturdays, 11 a.m. 156 Heaton Park Dr., Atlanta. 678-874-7102. Adults, $4; ages 3-18, $3; 2 and younger, free.
New Manchester History Hike. Sweetwater Creek State Park. A mile hike leads to the five-story ruins of the Civil-War era New Manchester textile mill. Climb inside the ruins and view the whitewater rapids. Saturdays in Aug. 10 a.m-11:30 p.m. 1750 Mt. Vernon Rd., Lithia Springs. 770-732-5817. $5/person; parking, $5.

special events

Teen Arts Night. City Center. Teens can bring instruments, poetry, artwork and short stories to share. Includes a slice of pizza and a soda. Aug. 3. 6-8 p.m. 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251. $5.
Trains, Trucks and Tractors. Southeastern Railway Museum. The museum hosts vehicles that kids can explore. Event also includes a craft corner and wagon rides. Aug. 4-5, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth. 770-476-2013. Adults, $8; children 2-12, $5; younger than 2, free.
Back to School Bash. Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Inspire learning in your kids with a fun back to school program featuring a special school bus, backpack activities and more. Sat., Aug. 4. 1 p.m. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 2 and older, $12.75; younger than 2, free. 
Lady Beetles. Gwinnett Environmental Heritage Center. Learn about lady beetles, (fondly known as ladybugs). Explore their world with crafts, and release a few to help protect gardens from pests. Aug., 4, 11, 18, 25. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 2020 Clean Water Dr. Buford. 770-904-3500. Adults 13 and older, $10.50; ages 3-12, $6.50.
Fulton County Free Saturday. High Museum of Art. Admission is free for Fulton County residents with I.D. on the first Saturday of each month. Aug. 4, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., NE, Atlanta. 404-733-5000. Free.
Second Sunday Funday. High Museum of Art. Enjoy art demonstrations, art-making workshops and live performances. Aug. 12. 1-4 p.m. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4550. Adults, $19.50; ages 6-17, $12; 5 and younger, free.
Taste of Johns Creek at the Hooch. Chattahoochee High School. Fifth annual tasting event includes live entertainment, visual arts, and food from Johns Creek exclusive restaurants. Aug 19. 4 p.m.-7 p.m. 5320 Taylor Rd., Johns Creek. 678-333-4159. Advance tickets, $15. Gate tickets, $20.
Decatur Ghost Tours. Decatur. Come meet some of Decatur’s ghosts on this historical, paranormal walking tour of downtown Decatur. Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m. 101 East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-296-7771. Adults, $15; 10 and younger, $12.
Alive After Five. Downtown Roswell. Enjoy a break from the busy workweek with live music, outside vendors, late hours at retailers, face painting and more. Bring your family, a date, your dog or your friends, and be sure to hop on the free trolley. Every third Thursday of the month, through Oct. 5-9 p.m. Downtown Roswell. 770-640-3253. Free.
Ghost Tours. Lawrenceville. Listen to vivid stories of the strange and supernatural as guides lead groups on a 90-minute adventure. Every Fri. and Sat. through Sept., 8:30 p.m. 128 East Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. Adults $12, 16 and younger, $9.
My Reptile Guys. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Kids have the opportunity to touch or hold many different animals. Aug. 11, 25 at noon. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-659-5437. Adults and ages 2 and older, $12.75; younger than 2, free. 
Third Sundaes. Barrington Hall. Tour Roswell’s historic museum and receive a free ice cream sundae afterward. Aug. 19. 1, 2 and 3 p.m. 535 Barrington Dr., Roswell. 770-648-3855. Adults, $8; children 6-12, $6; under 6, free. 
Intergalactic Bead and Jewelry Show. Gwinnett Convention Center. Exhibitors will present a wide range of precious and semi-precious gemstone beads, sterling silver, delicate beads and more. Aug. 18-19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Duluth. 678-924-0819. $5 for Sat., $4 for Sun. 12 and younger, free.
Arts and Crafts Festival. Piedmont Park. Have fun at this 2-day outdoor festival featuring arts and family fun. Enjoy live music and browse work from more than 200 painters, photographers, jewelers and crafters. Aug. 18-19. Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 1320 Monroe Dr., NE Atlanta. 404-845-0793. Free.
Fayette County Fair. Kiwanis Fairground Complex. Rides, live entertainment including the Texaco Country Showdown, various vendors and a Twilight Run. Aug. 23- Sept. 3. Mon.-Thurs., 5-10 p.m.; Fri., 5.-11 p.m.; Sat., 1-11 p.m.; Sun., 1-10 p.m; Labor Day, 1-10 p.m. 939 Goza Rd., Fayetteville. 404-913-3247. Tickets start at $3.
Pigs and Peaches BBQ Festival. Adams Park. A barbecue cook-off with a cash prize, plus a peach dessert contest. Kids’ Zone, live music, firework show. Aug. 24-25. Fri., 6-11 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m. 2753 Watts Dr., Kennesaw. 770-422-9714. Free. 
Big Haynes Creek Wildlife Festival. Georgia International Horse Park. Festival includes animal exhibits, hands-on demonstrations, arts, crafts, stage performances and more. Aug. 25-26.10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1996 Centennial Olympic Pkwy., Conyers. 770-860-4188. Adults, $5; children ages 4 and younger, free. 
Cirque Motion: Awaken. 14th Street Playhouse. Contemporary circus show featuring high-flying acrobatics, dynamic juggling and aerial choreography. Suitable for all ages. Aug. 24-26. Fri., 8 p.m., Sat., 2 and 8 p.m., Sun., 1 and 6 p.m. 173 14th St., Atlanta. 404-733-4738. $39-68.
Fourth Saturday Family Fun Day. Centennial Olympic Park. “Games and Gadgets.” Aug. 25. Noon-4 p.m. 265 Park Avenue West, Atlanta. 404-543-7407. Free.
Mary’s Ice Cream Crankin. Historic Roswell Square. Taste more than 100 flavors of ice cream and enjoy live music all for a good cause. “Kid’s korner” activity zone. Aug. 26, 2-4 p.m. 600 Atlanta St., Roswell. 770-587-4712. $5 per individual, $20 per family up to six.
NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. Atlanta Motor Speedway. Catch three nights of racing with some of NASCAR’s top stars. Aug. 31-Sept. 2. Fri., 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. 1500 Tara Pl, Hampton. 770-707-7904. Tickets start at $25 for adults; kids 12 and younger, free.

storytelling

Children’s Story Time. FoxTale Book Shoppe. Age-appropriate stories followed by dance and song period. Mondays and Saturdays. 11 a.m. 105 East Main St., #138, Woodstock. 770-516-9989. Free.
Storytime at Little Shop. Little Shop of Stories. Storytelling three times a week; Thursday nights, milk and cookies provided and kids can come in pajamas. Sundays, 3 p.m.; Tuesdays, 11 a.m.; Thursdays, 7 p.m. 133A East Court Sq., Decatur. 404-373-6300. Free.
Storytime. Yawn’s Books. Enjoy a story for all ages. Every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. 210 East Main St., Canton. 678-880-1922. Free.
Tales for Toddlers. Bean Head Toys. Stories read in the indoor tree house, then kids make a small craft to take home. Every Thursday. 10:30 a.m. 220 Johnson Ferry Road, Sandy Springs. 404-851-2980. Free.
Wren’s Nest Storytelling. The Wren’s Nest. Wren’s Nest Ramblers host storytelling sessions every Saturday. 1 p.m. 1050 Ralph D. Abernathy Blvd., Atlanta. 404-753-7735. Adults, $8; children $5, 4 and younger, free.
Storybook Time. Atlanta Botanical Garden. Listen to stories about bees, butterflies, frogs and flowers. Wednesdays through Oct., 10:30 a.m. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-876-5859. Adults, $18.95; ages 3-12, $12.95; 2 and younger, free.

theater

The Emperor and the Nightingale. Performing Arts Center at Oglethorpe University. Georgia Shakespeare encourages everyone to travel back in time to ancient China, where the Nightingale’s beautiful song transforms a troubled emperor into a wise ruler. Through Aug. 3. Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m. 4484 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-504-1473. $13.
Godspell JR. Act 3 Productions. This junior version of the hit Broadway play presents a reflection on the life of Jesus, boasting many well-known and upbeat songs. Through Aug  5. Fri-Sun., 7:30 p.m., Also Sat., 2:30 p.m. 6385-R Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs. 770-241-1905. Free.
The Tortoise, the Hare and other Aesop’s Fables. Center for Puppetry Arts. Children will be bouncing, clapping, and singing along when the carnival comes to town and presents five stories from Aesop’s timeless fables. Aug. 2- Sept. 9. Thur.-Fri., 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., Sat. 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., Sun. 1 p.m., 3 p.m. 1404 Spring St., Atlanta. 404-873-3391. $16.50.
Smoke on the Mountain. Atlanta Lyric Theater. The bluegrass revival stars members of the     original Theatre in the Square cast. Through Aug. 5. Thurs.-Sat. 8 p.m.; Sun., Tues., Wed., 2 p.m. Closed Monday. 117 N.  Park Sq., Marietta. 404-377-9948. $30-45. 
The Wind in the Willows. Act1 Theatre. This family-friendly musical tells the story of the friendship of the good-hearted Water Rat, the shy and curious Mole, and the sensible Badger. Through Aug. 5. Fri.-Sat., 7:30 p.m., Sun., 2 p.m. 180 Academy St., Alpharetta. 770-663-8989. Adults, $18; children, $15. 
Children’s Playhouse. Aurora Theatre. Puppeteers, magicians, storytellers, jugglers and more. Weds. Aug. 11, 18, 25. 10 a.m. 128 Pike St., Lawrenceville. 678-226-6222. $7.
Peter Pan. Fox Theatre. Discover the magic all over again with this new production of Peter Pan, featuring Tony Award nominee Cathy Rigby. August 9-12. Tues.-Sat., 8 p.m., Sun. 1:30 p.m., 7 p.m., Also Sat., 2 p.m. 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404- 881-2100. $25-65.
Legally Blonde the Musical. Jennie T. Anderson Theatre at The Cobb Civic Center. This hilarious MGM film and Broadway smash hit follows sorority star Elle Woods, an underestimated blonde who doesn’t take “no” for an answer. Aug. 10-26. Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m., Sun., 2 p.m. 548 S. Marietta Pkwy., Marietta. 404-377-9948.  Tickets, $35-45.
The Addams Family. Fox Theatre. Come meet the Addams Family in this smash-hit musical comedy. Aug. 14-19. Tues.-Sat., 8 p.m., Sun., 1:30 p.m., 7 p.m., Also Sat., 2 p.m. 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404- 881-2100. Tickets, $25-65.
The Fresh Beat Band. Fox Theatre. Come sing and dance with Nickelodeon’s popular preschool music group and stars of the hit TV series. August 26, 6 p.m. 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404- 881-2100. Tickets, $29-$39.

beyond atlanta

First Friday Night Concert Series. Hancock Park, Dahlonega. Bring friends, family, lawn chairs and listen to Kurt Thomas. First Friday of each month through Oct. 6:30-8:30 p.m. North Park and Warwick Streets, Dahlonega. 706-864-6133. Free.
River Giants Exhibit. Tennessee Aquarium. A collection of freshwater fish at legendary sizes, the “goliaths” of freshwater. Open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m. One Broad St., Chattanooga, Tenn. 800-262-0695. $24.95 per adult; $14.95 per child ages 3-12.
Riders in the Sky. Tweetsie Railroad. Come hear America’s Favorite Cowboys as they sing and entertain audiences, “the cowboy way.” Seating is first come first served. Aug. 18-19 at noon and 3 p.m. 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln., Blowing Rock, NC. 800-526-5740. Show included with park admission. Adults, $35; ages 3-12, $22; 2 and younger, free.

Labor Day Weekend Events

Decatur Book Festival. Decatur Square. Browse through hundreds of books, meet with best-selling authors, enjoy poetry and novel readings, music and live theatrics, visit the interactive children’s area. Aug. 31- Sept. 2. Parade at 9:45 a.m. on Sat. and 11:45 a.m. on Sun. Visit decaturbookfestival.com for scheduled events and times. 556 N. McDonough St., Decatur. 404-471-5769. Free.
Art in the Park. Glover Park. Come celebrate fine arts from all over the country. Kids can join the juried sidewalk chalk art competition or help build the Cityscape, a 3D model of Marietta made of recycled materials. Be sure to check out the inflatables and artist stations. Sept. 1-3. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Historic Marietta Square. 770-592-7180. Free.
Powers’ Festival. Power’s Pavilion. For over 40 years, this charity event has been raising money through its wide selection of entertainment. Enjoy arts, crafts, food vendors, face painting, inflatable slides, live entertainment and much more. Sept. 1-3. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 4766 W. Hwy 34, Newnan. 770-253-2011. Adults, $7; children 12 and younger, free.
Pioneer Day Festival. Sam Smith Park. Celebrate Labor Day with carnival rides and games, arts and crafts vendors, festival foods, live entertainment and handcraft demos. Aug. 31-Sept. 3. Fri., 4-11 p.m., Sat.-Sun., noon-11 p.m., Mon., noon-10 p.m. 1155 Douthit Ferry Rd., Cartersville. 770-974-9033. Adults, $5; ages 12 and younger, free. Unlimited rides each day, $20 wristbands.
Love the Lake Festival. Lake Acworth at Cauble Park. Over 150 arts & crafts vendors as well as food, live entertainment, ski demonstrations and a large Kids Zone. Festival kicks off with the parade on Sat. Sept. 1-2. Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun., noon-6 p.m. 770-423-1330. Admission and shuttles, free. 

Beyond Atlanta

Callaway’s Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival. Callaway Gardens. Watch the skies light up with a balloon glow on Friday evening and stick around for balloon launches Sat. and Sun. in the mornings and evenings. Between balloon launches, experience all the food, music and entertainment that Robin Lake has to offer on its last weekend of operation for the year. Aug. 31-Sept. 3. Visit callawaygardens.com for scheduled events and times. Hwy 27, Pine Mountain. 706-663-2281. Adults, $25; ages 6-12, $12.50; children 5 and younger, free.
Labor Day Beach Bash. Tybee Island. Enjoy free live entertainment and fireworks at the Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion. There will be an oceanfront beach party with music by the Swingin’ Medallions and fireworks will be set off 30 minutes after dark over the Atlantic Ocean. Sept. 2, 7-11 p.m. Stand Ave., Tybee Island. 912-652-6780. Free.