MARIETTA
First Friday Art Walk
Marietta encourages artists and art lovers to take part in a popular monthly tradition. The Art Walk features local artists showcasing their creations in and around the Square’s galleries, museums, boutiques and restaurants. Art ambassadors (wearing white aprons) are on hand to answer questions and give directions, but everyone is welcome to stroll from venue to venue at their own pace. Many of the shops and businesses on the Square stay open later than usual for shopping, and there’s also a lineup of dancers, musicians and performers to enjoy as well. The walk takes place rain or shine.
5-9 p.m. Aug. 1. Free. Marietta Square, 25 W. Park Square, Marietta. 770-427-5377, artwalkmarietta.com.
SUGAR HILL
75th anniversary
Sugar Hill’s degree of separation from Kevin Bacon just jumped to one. To celebrate its 75th anniversary, the Gwinnett city is pulling out all the stops, starting with the Sugar Rush 5k and Fun Run in the morning. Immediately following is an all-day festival with a parade, car and motorcycle show, arts, crafts, food, carnival rides and entertainment. The evening caps off with a 5:30 p.m. community dinner and a 7:30 p.m. concert headlined by the Bacon Brothers — Michael and Kevin (yes, that Kevin Bacon).
8 a.m.-10 p.m. Aug. 2. Free activities; concert tickets are $25-$45. Sugar Hill City Hall, 5039 Broad St., Sugar Hill. 770-945-6716, sugarhill75th.org.
DULUTH
Georgia Cup — Duluth Twilight Pro Invitational Criterium
Duluth is also planning a very busy Saturday as it plays host to the Georgia Cup, a professional cycling race. But this event is about a lot more than tires spinning; it will be a festival to promote family fitness, health and wellness. During the day, visitors can learn more about healthy eating and exercise, along with specifics on major issues such as diabetes and heart disease. There also will be live entertainment, face painting, food truck vendors and a beer garden to enjoy before the race begins. Unlike a meandering street race, the criterium competition takes place on closed track shorter than one mile, but with bikers cycling along in 45-minute circuits at break-neck speeds.
1-11 p.m. Aug. 2. Free; VIP tickets $50. Downtown district, 3167 Main St., Duluth. 404-448-4701, georgiacup.com.
