Labor Day officially announces the beginning of the second half of the year and is a much-awaited holiday considering the weekend of festivities is endless. The weather’s beautiful and it’s a great time to step out with family. Atlanta offers many such opportunities and I’ve been to some if not all venues. So take your pick and have fun time:
The Decatur Book Fest or DBF as they like to call it, is an annual book event and the largest independent book festival in the country. Every year, hundreds descend upon the Courthouse Square for their fill of independent authors, book sales, readings and more. This year, the 6th edition of the festival is on from September 2nd through the 4th and features more than 300 authors. You can find more information at http://www.decaturbookfestival.com/2011/index.php if you plan to visit. The event is free and open to the public and family friendly as well. There are tons of food vendors at the Square plus existing restaurants provide for good food and people watching. There is ample parking available at the public parking deck just behind the Marta station.
Competing with the book fest is Dragon*Con – Dragon*Con is the largest multi-media, popular culture convention focusing on science fiction and fantasy, gaming, comics, literature, art, music, and film in the universe! Also held September 2nd through 5th, the 10th edition of the convention features a parade (you have to check this out), an indie movie show, fashion show as well as other contests and performances. Entry for all 4 days is priced at $120.00 and other payment options are available on their website at http://www.dragoncon.org/members.php#DC_Memb. Held at the Hyatt Regency, it promises to be an eye-opener so get your tickets now! A number of hotels nearby have specials for this event and the venue is easily accessible by public transport.
Art in the Park held in Marietta’s Glover Park is a more low-scale event. In its 25th edition this year, this is one of the largest juried art show sin the southeast. The event offers an artist’s market, children’s are, food, demonstrations and more. It is free and open to the public and parking is available at the Cobb county parking deck. They also have a chalk art competition this year so feel free to check out their website and visit if you have the time. It promises to be fun! http://www.artparkmarietta.com/