SMYRNA
Chattahoochee River Line Historic Area
This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Atlanta, and members of the River Line Historic Area along the Chattahoochee want to remind us that the river snaking along the border of Cobb County played a key role in the city’s defense. One of those key points was the current-day Shoupade Park, a 1-acre site that provides a sweeping view of the city. The park includes two forts and gun artillery redans. Not sure what those are? Plan to be at Cobb’s Lewis A. Ray Library when Civil War historian Michael Shaffer, who also serves on the River Line’s board of directors, gives a talk about and a tour of the park. Both the lecture and tour are free, but donations to the River Line group are welcome.
11 a.m. July 5. Free. Lewis A. Ray Library, 4500 Oakdale Road, Smyrna. 770-801-5335, riverline.org.
CONYERS
Beaded jewelry workshop
Take advantage of the long weekend to channel your inner artist. Stop by the Sketching Pad Olde Town Art Studio in Conyers, where the shop’s talented staff helps people tap into that spirit by offering a variety of creative workshops. This week’s session on the art of beaded jewelry making will inspire participants to create their own unique pieces and will demonstrate how to use color themes in the process. The $20 fee covers the cost of all necessary supplies.
1-3 p.m. July 5. $20. The Sketching Pad, 928 Center St., Conyers. 678-787-2552, thesketchingpad.com.
ROSWELL
Big Something Band
The family fun doesn’t have to end with the last fabulous firework. Continue the celebration by heading to Roswell’s Riverside Park for a free concert featuring the Big Something Band, winner of the 2010 Homegrown Music Network album of the year award. This North Carolina ensemble blends rock, pop, funk, jazz and improv. The music begins at 7 p.m., but an hour before that food trucks will be on hand to offer treats. Listeners are also welcome to bring a cooler, blanket and chairs to spread out on the lawn.
7-9 p.m. July 5. Free. Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road, Roswell. 770-641-3705, roswellriversidesounds.com.
