In spite of the record pollen count, there's no better way to explore the city than by attending one of the many spring festivals taking place throughout metro Atlanta. Without all that yellow stuff, the world famous dogwoods, azaleas and cherry blossoms wouldn't stand a chance. So, load up on those allergy meds and get outside and enjoy the splendor of the season. Keep in mind that no pet dogs are allowed at large outdoor events, according to a recently passed City of Atlanta ordinance.
Alpharetta Arts StreetFest
Those that have never taken in the quaint loveliness of Alpharetta will want to attend the Alpharetta Arts StreetFest. The streets of the unique and historic downtown are closed off to accommodate around 100 artists, musicians and performers from all parts of the United States. The varied music lineup features jazz, roots rock, and Celtic music and includes cultural dancing and more. Some of the local eateries providing tasty eats are Pacific Rim Noodles, Jilly's Cupcakery, and Hott Betty Coffee & Cookies. Color us happy: Parking is free.
10 a.m. -- 6 p.m. April 14 and 15. Free. Milton Avenue between Main Street and Roswell-Canton Street, Alpharetta. 678-297-6000, www.alpharetta.ga.us.
Atlanta Dogwood Festival at Piedmont Park
What has become an Atlanta tradition was started by Walt Rich, the founder of Rich's Department Store in 1936, and now foliage watchers set their clocks by the Atlanta Dogwood Festival. Taking place in Piedmont Park, the festival brings in visitors from all over the southeast searching for unique pieces of art, jewelry and other handmade crafts, thanks in part to the juried “Fine Arts Market.” And it was just announced that Roberta Flack will perform Saturday night at 7:30 on the Meadow. There’s plenty of live music, raffles, prizes and all the festival-themed food one can eat. The Kids Village includes a giant inflatable bouncy den, arts and crafts, face-painting and a 24-foot rock-climbing wall. Take MARTA to the Arts Center Station or the Midtown Station on 10th Street and walk east on 10th Street straight to Piedmont Park. If you drive, look for pay lots along Juniper Street and take the free shuttle to the park.
Noon -- 10 p.m. April 20; 10 a.m. -- 11 p.m. April 21; 10 a.m. -- 6 p.m. April 22. Free. Piedmont Park, 400 Park Drive N.E., Atlanta. 404-817-6642, www.dogwood.org.
Big Shanty Festival
Downtown Kennesaw hosts its annual Big Shanty Festival again this spring, mixing the rich heritage of Kennesaw and the Civil War era while including members of the community of all ages. Kids from the area’s sporting associations and high school students create floats especially for the kickoff parade that runs through downtown Kennesaw on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. The parade will start at Adams Park and continue down Main Street. Students from Allatoona, Kennesaw Mountain and North Cobb High School bands are scheduled to march in this year's parade.
10 a.m. -- 6 p.m. April 21; noon -- 5 p.m. April 22. Free. Main Street, Kennesaw. 770-423-1130, Facebook: Kennesaw Big Shanty Festival.
Inman Park Festival and homes tour
Boasting the largest number of street vendors, three music stages, a home tour, a parade and a zone just for kids, everyone in the family is sure to find something fun to do at the Inman Park Festival. Known for its historical preservation and neighborhood improvement, the home show is a true testament of the multicultural influences in the area. It showcases Victorian dwellings, craftsmen bungalows and a Queen Anne Gothic Revival. Tickets to the home show are $20 and there’s a sneak preview Friday from noon to 4 p.m. Proceeds from the festival and home tour help fund neighborhood beautification and improvements. Also, be sure to catch the parade at 2 p.m. Saturday, which includes the Inman Park Precision Attaché Drill Team and live bands. The Inman Park/Reynoldstown MARTA station is located mere steps from the fun, or flag down the free shuttle bus circling the festival's perimeter for a ride.
11 a.m. -- 8:30 p.m. April 28; 11 a.m. -- 7 p.m. April 29; Free. Euclid Avenue N.E. and Elizabeth Street N.E., Atlanta. 770-635-3711, www.inmanparkfestival.org
Smyrna Spring Jonquil Festival
Awash in a sea of yellow and green, the Jonquil City of Smyrna celebrates its 24th annual Jonquil Fest this year with even more activities for all ages. Kids big and small will delight in a puppet show performed by Peter Hart and marvel at the chainsaw stylings of Brian Ruth, who carves masterpieces from three-foot logs in less than an hour. Ruth’s creations are then auctioned off later in the day. For older kids, there’s live music and crawfish and shrimp broil sponsored by Atkins Park, too. Taking place on Saturday at 8 a.m. is the Jonquil Jog, a 5K run/walk. Pre-registration is required; call 770-319-5401 for details or sign up online.
10 a.m. -- 6 p.m. April 28; noon -- 5 p.m. April 29. Free. 200 Village Green Circle, Smyrna. 770-423-1330, www.smyrnacity.com.
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