AUGUST 26-27

On August 26 and 27, the Grant Park Summer Shade Festival returns to its namesake, the oldest park in ATL.

As the largest fundraiser for the member-based Grant Park Conservancy nonprofit, this annual event, now in its 15th year, is packed with entertainment, activities and attractions. Two stages will host a full lineup of live music, along with a large artist market, a kids zone, a 5K run, a VIP area with special offerings and much more.

The free event will also feature libations from the likes of Status Vodka, Frida Kahlo Tequila, Monday Night Brewing and Bold Rock Hard Cider, which serve as the perfect complement to the bevy of food trucks that’ll be parked onsite. (Past food vendors include Mix’D Up Burgers, Simply Done Donuts, S&J’s Woodfired Pizza and The Smoke Ring.) As usual, the festival will host an 8 a.m. Adams Realtors Run that starts and ends at the Zoo Atlanta entrance. A free “tot trot” for little ones ages 5 and younger and a stroller stroll are also on the agenda. In an effort to encourage car-free transportation, the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition will also be on-hand providing free bike valet services.

The Grant Park Conservancy is always undertaking a variety of initiatives to better the neighborhood and Atlanta at large. Current projects include mobilizing a volunteer Grant Park stewardship program, developing solutions to alleviate traffic congestion and improving landscape design. What better way to support a great community organization than to grab friends, a blanket and enjoy a day of fun in the sun?

summershadefestival.org

STORY: Caroline Cox
Photo: Ryan Purcell