6 of the best things you can do in Atlanta this weekend

This MLK Jr. Day weekend, take some time to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and all that he stood for. Atlanta, the birthplace of Dr. King, is the perfect place to honor his memory and learn more about his life and work.

CHECK OUT: Athens to host championship parade for Georgia Bulldogs on Saturday

In addition to the many MLK Jr. events and activities happening around the city, there are plenty of other fun and exciting things to do in Atlanta this weekend. From the HBCU Culture Fest to a “Shrek” themed rave, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Here are six fun things to add to your calendar.

See what all the ‘Shrek’ hype is about

Get ready to let loose and immerse yourself in the fun and fantasy of a “Shrek”-themed dance party. These parties — such as the upcoming “Shrek Rave” and the ones by The Masquerade — have swept the nation, captivating audiences with their unique and electrifying blend of music, entertainment, and movie-inspired costumes.

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Friday’s event promises an experience that will not only be unforgettable but also shed light on why these “Shrek” themed parties have gained such wild popularity.

Location: Buckhead at Buckhead Theatre - 3110 Roswell Rd NE; Time: 8 p.m.; Date: Friday, Jan. 13; Admission: $31.50; Website: events.accessatlanta.com

Watch Atlanta’s coolest dads perform ‘Stop Making Sense’

Get ready Atlanta, because the ultimate party dads, Yacht Rock Revue, are sailing back into town. They’re hitting up their hometown at The Eastern, and they’re gonna rock the house with a complete performance of the iconic Talking Heads’ live album “Stop Making Sense.” I never miss a chance to catch this unique show when it’s in town. Yacht Rock nails this one on the head, from the vocals to the dance moves to the grey suits.

Location: East Atlanta at The Eastern - 777 Memorial Dr SE Building C; Time: 8 p.m.; Date: Friday, Jan. 13; Admission: $40+; Website: events.accessatlanta.com

Get a head start on celebrating the Year of the Rabbit

Even though Lunar New Year doesn’t officially begin until Sunday, Jan. 22, Atlantic Station is starting the party early this weekend. From Jan. 13 through Feb. 5, head on over to the Atlantic Green for a festival of Lunar New Year decorations and traditions. From a “fire” breathing magnificent red dragon to an incredible lantern show, it’s a celebration you won’t want to miss and the perfect way to kick off the Year of the Rabbit!

Location: Midtown at Atlantic Station - 1380 Atlantic Dr NW; Time: 5-9 p.m.; Date: Friday, Jan. 13 through Sunday, Feb. 5; Admission: Free; Website: events.accessatlanta.com

Reignite your creativity at an open mic variety show

Get ready to unleash your inner artist and let your talents shine. This Saturday, head to the Westview Maker Space for the ultimate open mic experience with Art Out Loud. This stage is the perfect platform for any type of performer, including spoken word poets, musicians, singers, actors and actresses with dramatic monologues, conscious hip hop artists, and anyone with a unique talent to share.

Sign up sheet will be available at the door from 5:30-6 p.m., don’t be shy!

Location: Southwest Atlanta at Westview Maker Space - 1554 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW; Time: 5:30-8 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Jan. 14; Admission: $10 in advance, $15 at door; Website: events.accessatlanta.com

Show your pride at the HBCU Culture Fest and Battle of the Bands

The HBCU Culture Fest & Battle of the Bands event will showcase the fierce talents of HBCU marching bands and cultural organizations, with an epic Battle of the Bands competition to crown the ultimate champion. It’s two nights full of school spirit, energetic performances, and community celebration.

Location: Fan Fest at Morris Brown Campus - 643 M.L.K. Jr Dr NW; Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Date: Saturday, Jan. 14; Admission: $25+; Website: events.accessatlanta.com

Location: Battle of the Bands at State Farm Arena - 1 State Farm Dr; Time: 5-9 p.m.; Date: Sunday, Jan. 15; Admission: $25+; Website: events.accessatlanta.com

Add to your comic book collection

Attendees of the Atlanta Comic Convention can expect to find vendors selling a wide variety of merchandise, artists showcasing and selling their work, celebrity guests, panel discussions, and cosplay contests. It’s a great opportunity for fans to come together and celebrate their favorite fandoms, meet fellow fans, and discover new comics, games, and other pop culture items.

Location: Brookhaven at Marriott Hotel Century Center (Emory) - 2000 Century Blvd NE; Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Date: Sunday, Jan. 15; Admission: $5; Website: events.accessatlanta.com