ALPHARETTA
59th Annual Old Soldiers Day Parade in Historic Downtown Alpharetta
Marching bands strike it up for this procession honoring veterans of all wars. Expect the usual pageantry: floats, clowns, classic cars, military units and flying candy. The parade wraps at the American Legion Post 201 on Wills Road with kiddie activities and freebies. Although it all sounds like classic Americana, the complimentary Varsity hot dogs at the American Legion are enough to have you waving your comfort food flag high. It kicks off at Alpharetta City Hall. The band begins at 9:15 a.m. A special program follows at 10 a.m., and the parade steps off at 10:30 a.m.
9:15 a.m. Aug. 6. Free. Alpharetta City Hall, 2 S. Main St., Alpharetta. 678-297-6000, www.alpharetta.ga.us.
DULUTH
Trains, Trucks & Tractors at Southeastern Railway Museum
Some kids can’t get enough of massive vehicles; the bigger the better. This event takes the touch-a-truck concept to the next level. The museum’s trains share real estate with other larger-than-life equipment and modes of transportation. Past years have found a UPS truck, a MARTA bus and a variety of tractors of various sizes and vintages available for exploration. A host of activities packs each day, including train rides, temporary tattoos, hands-on arts and crafts, kids' wagon races and a daily tractor parade. Young ones can soak up some inspiration as the Jr. Model Railroad Club demonstrates its latest layout.
10 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 6 and 7. $8; $6 ages 65 and older; $5 ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. Southeastern Railway Museum, 3595 Buford Highway, Duluth. 770-476-2013, www.southeasternrailwaymuseum.org.
FOREST PARK
Thunder on the Park Back to School Rally at Forest Park High School
The Forest Park High School PTSA won’t stand for a simple potluck or bake sale. This motorcycle and car show speeds off in a different direction. Guests are asked to bring backpacks stuffed with school supplies to help students in need of the tools of the trade. Donors are rewarded with a vehicle show featuring a variety of bikes and classic cars. The motorcycle ride starts the event’s engines, and kickstands go up at 10 a.m. The ride winds up back at Forest Park High School. Riders parade into the event and add to the excitement. Live music and a raffle highlight the afternoon. It's free for onlookers, but drivers and passengers must either pay the registration fee for the ride ($10-$20) or provide a large backpack filled with school supplies. Registration for the ride, bike and car show is available online.
8 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 6. Free for spectators. Forest Park High School, 5452 Phillips Drive, Forest Park. 678-825-7715, www.forestparkptsa.org.
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