Things to do in and around Atlanta for Monday, July 2

Muhammad Ali lights the torch to launch the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. Illustrations from an Ali biography are on display at the Auburn Avenue Research Library (AJC file photo)

Credit: AJC file photo

Credit: AJC file photo

Muhammad Ali lights the torch to launch the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. Illustrations from an Ali biography are on display at the Auburn Avenue Research Library (AJC file photo)

Good Monday morning, Atlanta. With two days until the July 4th holiday, you’ve probably already made your list of must-do parades and picnics and fireworks shows and are checking it twice.

(Not quite there yet? Then do allow us to help with this all-encompassing list of anything and everything that's happening all over the metro area on Independence Day. )

>>RELATED: County-by-county guide to fireworks shows around metro Atlanta

In the meantime, there’s some pre-Independence Day enjoyment to be had before you even think of rousing yourself from bed early enough to run in Wednesday’s AJC Peachtree Road Race or at least pulling on something red, white and blue-spangly for 24 hours. Here’s a trio of fun and intriguing things to do around town that will make today feel like a pre-holiday holiday:

“WANNA ONE WORLD TOUR”

What's that, you haven't heard of this K-pop act that, having already taken South Korea by storm, is now set on conquering the rest of the music world? That's not entirely surprising, since the 11-member boy band was only formed last year via a reality TV series; and it's already known that they plan on disbanding at the end of this year. In between, though, they've released one of the best selling Korean albums of 2017, had a hit with the song "Boomerang" and are now on a 13-city world tour that includes one show in Atlanta. 8 p.m. $90-$220. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, 2800 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Atlanta. 770-916-2800, www.cobbenergycentre.com

“12 ROUNDS TO GLORY: THE STORY OF MUHAMMAD ALI”

The Auburn Avenue Research Library has reached into its own impressive archives for this display of selected artwork by Bryan Collier. The works were used to illustrate "12 Rounds of Glory: The Story of Muhammad Ali." The poetic verse biography by Charles Smith covers that covers the period from Ali's birth to the stunning moment when he emerged to light the torch that officially opened the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games in Atlanta. Library open daily, hours vary (check web site for full schedule). Free. 101 Auburn Avenue NE, Atlanta. 404-613-4001, www.afpls.org/aarl

Button Gwinnett,  signer of the Declaration of Independence, has the most valuable autograph among all Americans.

Credit: HANDOUT

icon to expand image

Credit: HANDOUT

“HISTORICAL SOVEREIGN SCAVENGER HUNTING”

What could be more timely as we head into Independence Day than this fun and informative way to learn more about the history of the county that was created in 1818 and named for Button Gwinnett — one of only three Georgians who signed the Declaration of Independence? To take part, kids (and kids of all ages) should stop by the front office of the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse front office to pick up a list of historical items located throughout the courthouse and surrounding grounds. Those who find all the items on the list can return to the office to collect a bicentennial prize and have their names inscribed on a certificate. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 185 Crogan Street, Lawrenceville. 770-822-5450, www.gwinnett200.com

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