Things to do in and around Atlanta for Monday, August 6

Welcome to the first Monday in August, the day when metro Atlanta unofficially officially gets back down to business.

(Don’t believe it? Then ask any of the hundreds of thousands of kids who all are back in school this week, not to mention their teachers, parents and all the other adults for whom summer vacation time is over).

Fear not, though, all is not lost!

There’re still fun or stimulating things to do today, if you just know where to look.

Right here. We’ve rounded up a trio of events going on in and around town, at least one of which ought to appeal any age group or pocketbook (translation: Free).

“‘WOKE’ AT ESSENTIAL THEATRE PLAY FESTIVAL”

“Woke” is a word that gets thrown around a lot these days, but what does it really mean? Avery Sharpe’s play examines that topic through the lens of two friends from different backgrounds whose transition from high school to college plays out against the backdrop of a “calamitous” event that’s captured national attention. 8 p.m. $10 (see web site for complete festival ticket pricing). West End Performing Arts Center, 945 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd. www.essentialtheatre.com.

“MONDAY FUN DAYS AT THRASHER PARK”

What’s that, you say? A kid in your life needs some playtime-with-a-plus after spending a long Monday in school — or watching older siblings or neighborhood kids troop off there? Well, starting today, you can bring then to Thrasher Park in Norcross on Mondays for some late afternoon-into-evening fun. There’ll be face painting, storytellers, ice cream trucks and more (word is, kids yoga is coming next Monday!). Some area merchants also will have special deals. 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Free. 93 Park Drive, Norcross. www.aplacetoimagine.com

“FOOD TALK COOKING CLASS”

At a loss when it comes to preparing quick, affordable, good and good-for-you meals? And what about if you’re responsible for a whole family’s taste buds? Help is on the way in Smyrna! Today kicks off an eight-week series of classes taught by Michelle Watson, an EFNEP (Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program) program assistant at the University of Georgia. The class takes place every Monday through Oct. 1 (no class on Sept. 3). 6:30 p.m. Free. Smyrna Library, 100 Village Green Circle S.E., Smyrna. www.smyrnacity.com

>>See what’s in store on the weather and traffic front before you head out

Looking for more? Listen to our weekly accessAtlanta podcast, which offers more ideas for things to do in and around Atlanta