10 things to do in Atlanta this weekend
Atlanta is buzzing with excitement this weekend. Gather your friends and indulge in festivals focused on wine, brunch, oysters and more. Lace up your shoes and walk or run for a great cause. Cheer on Atlanta United as they kick off their MLS season opener. Plus, don’t miss the chance to catch your choice of a Shakespearean play, with performances both through the Atlanta Opera and at Shakespeare Tavern. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
And take note! Prepare to be transported to an enchanted world where dreams and reality intertwine. The Atlanta Opera proudly presents a new production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Benjamin Britten’s whimsical adaptation of Shakespeare’s timeless comedy. Join us for a night of hilarious misunderstandings, mischievous faeries, and a magical blend of music and mayhem.
Grammy-winning countertenor Iestyn Davies has his company debut as Oberon, King of the fairies, alongside the radiant soprano Liv Redpath as Tytania, Queen of the fairies. Three Atlanta Opera favorites return with Megan Marino as Puck, Kevin Burdette as Bottom, and Susanne Burgess as Helena — under the direction of Tomer Zvulun and rising young conductor Louis Lohraseb.
Experience the ultimate fusion of Shakespearean wit and operatic splendor in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, March 2-10. Don’t miss this magical journey of love, laughter, and enchantment, get your tickets now at atlantaopera.org.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Atlanta Opera
Composer Benjamin Britten’s version of William Shakespeare’s classic play, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, takes center stage at the Cobb Energy Center through March 10. Experience a fusion of Shakespearean magic and operatic prowess with this all-new adaptation of the timeless story of Oberon and Tytania.
Location: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center - 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway; Date: Friday, March 8 and Sunday, March 10; Time: 8 p.m. (Friday); 3 p.m. (Sunday); Admission: See website; Website: atlantaopera.org
Twilight Trek at Zoo Atlanta
This Friday evening, come tour the Atlanta Zoo at dusk to discover what animals do when the sun goes down. Using various types of night-vision technology, you can search for nocturnal animals you may not see during the daytime, learn more about zoo maintenance, and get to study animals from a different perspective.
Location: Zoo Atlanta - 800 Cherokee Avenue SW; Date: Friday, March 8; Time: 6:30 to 9 p.m.; Admission: $22-27 (free for three and under); Website: zooatlanta.org
Atlanta Brunch Festival
The second and final week of the Atlanta Brunch Festival takes place this Saturday. If you didn’t have a chance to go last week or if you simply want to experience it all over again, pencil in Atlantic Station for the brunch event of the year. Each brunch sample is $4 each, paid directly to the restaurant.
Location: Atlantic Station - 1380 Atlantic Drive NW; Date: Saturday, March 9; Time: 12 to 4 p.m. (early entry: 11 a .m.); Admission: Various ticket options; see website; Website: atlantabrunchfestival.com
Atlanta United vs. New England Revolution
On March 9, Atlanta United kicks off the soccer season at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, playing against New England Revolution. Secure your seat and support the Five Stripes for what is sure to be a thrilling season ahead.
Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium - 1 AMB Drive NW; Date: Saturday, March 9; Time: 7:30 p.m.; Admission: See website for ticket prices; Website: atlutd.com
Georgia Beer Day 2024
Calling all craft beer enthusiasts! Don’t miss out on Georgia Beer Day, a celebration of Georgia craft beer with proceeds going towards the Georgia Craft Brewers Guild. Over 70 breweries from Atlanta to Ellijay, Cartersville and Macon and beyond will be participating. This year’s pint glass is a 16 oz. designed by Georgia artist Madison O’Brien encouraging you to raise a glass in support of local craft breweries across the Peach State.
Location: Various breweries; see website; Date: Saturday, March 9; Website: georgiacraftbrewersguild.org
A Day with Cartoonists at Center for Puppetry Arts
This Saturday, join the National Cartoonists Society and the Center for Puppetry Arts for a quirky celebration of cartoons and puppetry. Admission to the museum gets you access to a cartoonist marketplace, caricature drawings, and a panel discussion titled “Puppetry, Cartooning, and the Art of Storytelling” featuring top puppeteers and cartoonists.
Location: Center for Puppetry Arts - 1404 Spring Street NW; Date: Saturday, March 9; Time: 2 to 7:30 p.m.; Admission: $12-16; Website: puppet.org
Oakhurst Wine Crawl
Sip on wine, stroll through Oakhurst Village, and support the support community at the Oakhurst Wine Crawl. Sample over 100 wines at 20 spots in this cute Decatur neighborhood. Presented by the Decatur Art Alliance, proceeds go to future public art events including Oakhurst Porchfest and Decatur Artway.
Location: Oakhurst Village - 650 East Lake Drive; Date: Saturday, March 9; Time: 4 to 7 p.m.; Admission: $60-70; Website: decaturartsalliance.org
Oyster Crawfish Festival at Park Tavern
Get shucked up at Park Tavern’s annual Oyster Crawfish Festival, which returns for its 21st year, this time with special musical guest Hotel Fiction. Each crawfish platter serves up to 1.5 pounds of crawfish with potatoes and corn. Early arrival is encouraged, because the crawfish sells out quickly! They will also serve fresh, grilled and fried oysters, as well as po’boys.
Location: Park Tavern - 500 10th Street NE; Date: Saturday, March 9; Time: 2 to 11 p.m.; Admission: $15-20; Website: parktavern.com
Merchant of Venice at Shakespeare Tavern (A LadyShakes Production)
This weekend, enjoy a femme-focused spin on the classic tale “The Merchant of Venice.” The Shakespeare Tavern will be hosting a special production presented by LadyShakes Productions. Featuring an all-female-identifying cast, this performance offers a fresh perspective on Shakespeare’s classic play.
Location: Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse - 499 Peachtree Street NE; Date: March 9 - 30; Time: See website; Admission: $24; Website: shakespearetavern.com
40th Anniversary Hunger Walk Run
The 40th Annual Hunger Walk Run will be taking place this Sunday at the Home Depot Backyard. Hosted by the Atlanta Community Food Bank, every step helps fight hunger. Each walking registration contributes 90 meals, and each running registration contributes 120 meals.
Location: The Home Depot Backyard - 1 Backyard Way; Date: Sunday, March 10; Time: 12 to 4 p.m.; Admission: See website; Website: engage.acfb.org
